SMYRNA, Tenn. (Oct. 9, 2019) -- Barbieri Orthodontics donated free braces to five Rutherford Co. middle school students as part of its Smile Hero anti-bullying campaign this year. Recognizing students for their efforts in overcoming bullying or speaking out against it, the orthodontic practice partnered with local teachers and counselors to select representatives from LaVergne Middle School, Rocky Fork Middle School, Smyrna Middle School, and Stewarts Creek Middle School at the end of the 2018-19 school year.
"I was very excited to hear that two of our students were selected," Dr. Theowana Hatchett, principal of Smyrna Middle School, said. "We appreciate Barbieri Orthodontics doing this for us and our kids. It's a program we hope will be successful and continue to grow."
Students selected as Barbieri Orthodontics' Smile Heroes were contacted over the summer and began their free orthodontic treatment this fall. As anti-bullying representatives of the practice and their respective schools, the students will be encouraged to engage in specialized tasks like fundraisers or bullying prevention activities throughout their one to two year treatment time.
"The written nominations from teachers and administrators were heart-wrenching," Dr. Damon Barbieri said. "The entire team was in tears as we read them aloud. Some made us deeply sad, while others were really inspiring. We tried to pick five students that stood out as really special."
"As a father of three young kids, I'm hyper-aware of bullying and how it can crush a kid's world. There are so many outlets for it now. One of our core values at Barbieri Orthodontics is kindness, and I view this program as a way to pay it forward and make a difference in a few kids' lives."
