PERRY TOWNSHIP — Those who knew Kyson Beatty remember he brought joy to so many.
It has been a little more than four months since the 11-year-old died after being hit by a tow truck — and Kyson's school, Perry Meridian Sixth Grade Academy — is still carrying on his legacy.
The school has created a memorial for the boy in its library called "Kyson's FriEND Zone." and an online book drive in his honor. The drive will help the school buy emotional support books and provide self-confidence-building resources — something Kyson was big on.
Kyson was killed Dec. 11 last year by a hit-and-run drivernear the intersection of South Tibbs Avenue and Wicker Road.
PREVIOUS | Balloon release honors 11-year-old Kyson Beatty
"When this tragedy happened it was very evident the impact he had. All of the kids in the building literally and metaphorically looked up to him for a lot of different reasons. He was a leader in the building," said Assistant Principal Andrew Repay.
The school says it's going to continue his legacy of protecting his peers from bullies, and to stand up for the underdogs.
"Kyson was such a big guy on not only making friends, but also sticking up for any kids he felt like was in a bad situation," said Repay.
PREVIOUS | Court doc: Man who killed Kyson Beatty sped away, said he couldn't be caught driving the truck
Kyson always made it a point to make others smile, those who knew him said.
"Goofy, very goofy, very funny. He would make a joke or make people laugh in any situation. That was just kind of the kid that he was," said Amanda Tarter, Kyson's mom.
If you would like to donate to book drive, click here.
-
Dominated by No.2 Ohio State for years, No. 5 Indiana has a chance for payback
If Indiana beats Ohio State and closes out the season with a win over Purdue, the Hoosiers will be in the Big Ten championship for the first time since the inception of the game in 2011.
Preparing for the political chatter around the table on Thanksgiving
IU psychology professor Edward Hirt offers insight on navigating through this first big family get-together, since an historic and polarizing election.
No. 16 Indiana remains unbeaten with 69-58 win over UNC Greensboro
Myles Rice scored 14 of his 20 points in the first half, freshman Bryson Tucker finished with a season-high 14 and No. 16 Indiana got past UNC Greensboro 69-58 on Thursday night.
I have a frozen Thanksgiving turkey. When should I thaw it?
Do you have a large Thanksgiving turkey in your freezer taking up space? Learn when you should move it to the fridge.
