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HAMMONDSVILLE -- Stanton Elementary School is taking steps to help children feel more connected and reduce isolation, bullying and violence with the “Start With Hello” program.
Beginning Feb. 7, the program is tied into Start With Hello Week, which is being promoted in schools nationwide Feb. 6-10. The initiative was started through the Sandy Hook Promise, a nonprofit organization led by several family members who lost loved ones at the Sandy Hook Elementary School in 2012. Based in Newtown, Conn., the group’s mission is to prevent gun violence before it happens by teaching youth and adults how to recognize the signs, intervene and get help for individuals who may be at-risk of hurting themselves or others.
Principal Julie Kireta said presentations will be held for second-to-sixth-graders at 9:05 and 9:50 a.m. Start With Hello is a free program that teaches students in grades 2-12 the skills they need to reach out to and include those who may be dealing with chronic social isolation and create a culture of inclusion and connectedness within their school or youth organization.
Brigid Ratcliff, a presenter from Sandy Hook Promise, will address fifth- and sixth-graders, while teachers Nick Howell and Todd Smith will present to pupils in grades 2-4.
“(I learned about the program when) Sandy Hook Promise sent an email out after having a meeting at the Jefferson County Educational Service Center that our administration attended,” Kireta added. “I hope the students learn how their attitude and actions affect other people. Students can have a positive effect on other people by being friendly and polite. Students should learn that it is important in life to be friendly and polite. Having the skill of polite and friendly behaviors can make everyday issues easier to solve.”
According to the Sandy Hook Promise organization, social isolation is a growing epidemic in the United States and within schools, and excessive feelings of isolation can be associated with violent and suicidal behavior. In fact, one study reports that chronic loneliness increases the risk of an early death by 14 percent. Also, young people who are isolated can become victims of bullying, violence and/or depression. As a result, many further pull away from society, struggle with learning and social development and/or choose to hurt themselves or others.
Start with Hello is a mechanism to give the students skills they need to make a positive impact on their peers. In addition to helping students, it also benefits educators, administrators, community-based organization leaders and parents. By building a culture of inclusion and connectedness, schools and communities can better support their young people and reduce their risk of bullying, violence and depression.
Start With Hello Week raises awareness and educates students and the community through trainings, advertising, public proclamations, media events and other activities. Schools can participate throughout the week and also receive post-training activities to provide reminders throughout the year.
Sandy Hook Promise provides a series of downloadable resources and guides as well as awards and other support. For more information or to register a school or youth organization to participate in Start With Hello Week, go online at www.sandyhookpromise.org/startwithhelloweek.