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.
-
Caitlin Clark Effect on display at Indiana Corn maze
Caitlin Clark is being honored in the Hoosier State in the most Indiana way possible. Folks with the CountyLine Orchard in Hobart plowed a Caitlin Clark maze in a corn field.Volunteers needed this weekend to assist local senior citizens
The event, which runs from 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. is a half day of service to low-income senior homeowners in Indianapolis.Endress+Hauser to host STEM career night for students, parents
Endress+Hauser, along with Mayer Najem, will host their 10th Annual Community Career and Education Forum for area students in 7th-9th grades.Country music superstar Megan Moroney announces show at Fishers Event Center
The young singer/songwriter will bring her 2025 tour to the new Fishers Event Center in April on the heels of her Female Vocalist of the Year nomination by the Country Music Association.