Wheeler Avenue Elementary School in Valley Stream District 13 participated in “Start with Hello Week,” an impactful initiative from the Sandy Hook Promise. The program is designed to empower students and foster connections and inclusivity within the school community. To combat isolations and feelings of loneliness, the program prompts students to reach out and offer gestures of kindness to improve morale and wellbeing.
During this week-long initiative, students and staff engaged in activities that promoted kindness, inclusion, and support. The simple act of greeting one another can create a significant ripple effect, enhancing the sense of belonging for every member of the school community.
“We believe that every student should feel valued and connected,” said Ruth Peets-Butcher, Principal of Wheeler Avenue Elementary School. “Start with Hello Week provides an excellent opportunity for our students to learn about the importance of inclusion and to actively engage in building a supportive environment.”…