At Butler County Schools, learning extends far beyond the classroom walls. It takes root in community, service, and shared growth: qualities that shine brightly in the story of Lily Glass, a student at Butler County High School, whose early-morning volunteer work embodies the heart of the district’s Portrait of a Learner framework.

Every Wednesday morning, before most students even arrive for class, Lily can be found at Morgantown Elementary School (MES) helping lead a unique initiative known as Books and Braids. The program pairs literacy development with self-confidence building, inviting young girls to gather for hair braiding and reading before the start of the school day.

“Each Wednesday morning we are overrun with little girls who come to get their hair braided before school starts, and while we braid their hair, they read to us,” wrote a teacher in the program who shared Lily’s story. “Not only does it get them ready for their day, we are working on building reading skills and a love for reading! Lily has been such a big help and encouragement to these young girls, and I appreciate her dedication to this program so much.”

In every sense, Lily’s story reflects Global Citizenship and Collaboration, two pillars of the Portrait of a Learner that emphasize empathy, connection, and the power of shared responsibility. Her commitment to serving younger students models what it means to take learning and leadership beyond the self—nurturing both literacy and belonging within her community.

Principal Stoye Young of Butler County High School, who received the message commending Lily’s work, noted that her involvement exemplifies the type of initiative and compassion that define Butler County learners. “Programs like Books and Braids show how our students are giving back and using their strengths to make a difference. Lily demonstrates what it means to be a role model: kind, dependable, and dedicated to helping others learn and grow,” he shared.

At Books and Braids, the mornings are filled with laughter, storytelling, and the gentle rhythm of community connection. The act of braiding hair becomes a metaphor for what Butler County Schools strives to do every day: interweaving knowledge, care, and confidence into the next generation.

This program also illustrates how collaboration between schools enhances the district’s educational ecosystem. Through the support of both MES and BCHS, students like Lily are encouraged to bridge age groups, share their talents, and contribute to a culture of mentorship. The impact stretches far beyond literacy. Younger students are seeing older peers as mentors and friends, and high school students are discovering the joy of guiding and uplifting others.

The Portrait of a Learner framework was designed to help students cultivate durable skills for lifelong success: Character, Problem Solving, Communication, Collaboration, and Global Citizenship. Lily’s story embodies all of these qualities. She communicates with care, collaborates across schools, and demonstrates character through her consistency and kindness. Most importantly, she exemplifies global citizenship by fostering understanding and respect in her community.

“Service like Lily’s reminds us that education is about much more than academics,” said Robert Tuck, Superintendent. “It’s about building connections and instilling values that last a lifetime. She represents the best of Butler County Schools: students who use their time and talents to serve others.”

As Butler County Schools continues to highlight stories through the Portrait of a Learner in Action series, Lily’s story serves as a reminder that the most meaningful learning often happens through relationships. When students invest in others, they strengthen not only their own skills but the very fabric of their community.

Every braid tied and every page turned on those Wednesday mornings is a reflection of what it means to grow together. Butler County Schools celebrates Lily Glass for her leadership, her heart for service, and her role in inspiring both younger learners and her peers to see the value in giving back.

In the spirit of the district’s vision,“One team with one vision that makes us Butler Strong”, Lily’s story stands as a shining example of how kindness, initiative, and learning can come together to create something truly beautiful.