The Bridgewater-Raritan Regional School District has partnered with all public schools in New Jersey to recognize the Week of Respect from Monday, October 6, through Friday, October 10.
The Week of Respect is in accordance with the Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights Act, a New Jersey law that was signed into effect in 2011 to combat bullying in public schools.
The law requires that New Jersey public schools acknowledge the importance of social and emotional learning while emphasizing age-appropriate instruction that will focus on preventing harassment, intimidation, and bullying (HIB).
In the Bridgewater-Raritan Regional School District, each day was observed with a different theme.
According to Lisa Lattaruo, who is the Supervisor of Counseling and Wellness K-8 for the Bridgewater-Raritan Regional School District, all schools are following the same spirit days as a way to connect the entire community for the Week of Respect.
“Each school is doing a variety of activities, including making a kindness chain, poster contest, positive affirmation tree, writing exercises to explore themes of respect, kindness and paying it forward,” Ms. Lattarulo said.
On Monday, October 6, Being Kind Is No Sweat was celebrated when students and staff wore their favorite sweatshirts or sweatpants to school. Tuesday, October 7, was Team Up For Kindness when students and staff wore their favorite sports team’s jerseys and shirts.
Wednesday, October 8, is titled Let Kindness Shine when bright clothing is worn. Thursday, October 9, is known as Keep The Peace & Be A Friend, when dye clothing was the popular choice.
The week closes with Put Bullying To Bed on Friday, October 10, when pajamas were the favorite selection.
“The Week of Respect is a meaningful time to reflect on how we treat one another. With this year’s theme of kindness and empathy, students across the district are engaging in activities that promote connection, compassion, and a sense of belonging,” Ms. Lattarulo stated.
Ms. Lattarulo closed with this kind message.
“When we lead with kindness, we help create a school climate where everyone feels valued, respected, and excited to come to school each day.”