Students in Hardin Reynolds Memorial School (HRMS) recently participated in a weeklong national event called “Start With Hello,” which teaches students in grades two through 12 the skills they need to reach out to and include those who may be dealing with chronic social isolation.
The event also is intended to help students create a culture of inclusion and connectedness within their classroom, school or youth organization.
Social isolation is the overwhelming feeling of being left out, lonely, or treated like you are invisible. It is a growing epidemic in the United States and within our schools. 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.
On the first day of the event, students wrote nice notes to each other. They received those notes on Tuesday, which was Compliments Day. Wednesday was “Lifesaver Day.” Teachers distributed Lifesaver candies with an attached list of five ways students can reach out to those who may feel isolated. The list included ideas for “Start with Hello” week and beyond.
On Thursday, students were invited to sign a pledge banner during lunch which included the following promises: “I pledge to be a friend to those who need one,” “I pledge to include people who get left out,” and “I pledge to reach out and offer to help.”
Wear green day was Friday. Green was to show support for the program. Also on Friday, students in art class decorated large hands which were attached to sticks so that the non-verbal special education students could wave to others as a way to participate in saying “Hello.”
Pam Hylton, HRMS school counselor, encouraged parents and grandparents to talk to youngsters about how to identify isolation and ways to reach out to those who may feel isolated. The involvement helps show youngsters that adults take the subject seriously and are willing support students who try to create a more connected and inclusive home, classroom, school and community.
