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.
-
DirecTV files complaint with FCC saying Disney won't negotiate in good faith
DirecTV has filed a complaint as negotiations with Disney have reached an "impasse." Despite the stalled negotiations, DirecTV customers might be able to catch Monday Night Football for free.Indiana Math and Science Academy West teacher empowers students in STEM
An Indianapolis teacher is one of 100 educators from across the U.S. selected to be part of a prestigious science program.Kate, princess of Wales, says she has completed chemotherapy
Kate, princess of Wales, says she has completed chemotherapy. The announcement comes months after revealing her diagnosis.Love Your Neighbor Food Pantry is fighting food insecurity on southeast side
September is Hunger Action Month. A new report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture shows food insecurity is on the rise nationally. And that’s no different right here in the Hoosier state.