To encourage a caring and inclusive school environment, Hillside Grade School hosted its annual Upstander Appreciation Week from Feb. 27-March 3. The event was organized by school social worker Lori Cohen and Student Council advisor Christina DeMartino.

This year’s event was a collaborative venture between the Caring Ambassadors and Student Council. Throughout the week, the two student groups visited classrooms to share tips and strategies on how to be and recognize an upstander.

To further promote Upstander Appreciation Week, themed days were held. On Monday, students dressed in an assigned grade-level color for Confetti Day; on Tuesday, students wore their favorite sports gear for “Upstanders are Good Sports;” on Wednesday, students wore clothes to represent their school spirt for “We Take Pride in Being Upstanders;” on Thursday, students handed in Post-It notes with inspirational messages that were added to a heart display in the main lobby; and on Friday, students wore pajamas for “Upstanders Make Our School a Warm and Cozy Place.”

Cohen and DeMartino also shared video links and anti-bullying book recommendations for classroom teachers to utilize.

Date Added: 3/14/2023