Fulmar Road Elementary School students took part in Start With Hello Week, joining schools across the country in a program designed to promote inclusion, empathy and connection.
The initiative, developed by Sandy Hook Promise, helps students recognize social isolation and take simple steps to support one another, encouraging them to reach out, include others and help build a stronger school community.
Throughout the week of April 20, students participated in a variety of activities centered on kindness, empathy, mindfulness, integrity and inclusiveness. The school’s Smile Wall located in the lobby invited students to share notes about how they made someone smile, helping to spread positivity and reinforce connections throughout the building. Students also listened to stories that supported these themes and encouraged thoughtful discussion.
One highlight of the week was Fulmar Road’s fifth graders, who served as school ambassadors by greeting students, faculty and staff each morning, helping to set a welcoming tone for the day.
“Start With Hello Week is an important reminder of the role each of us plays in creating a welcoming and inclusive school environment,” Fulmar Road Assistant Principal Allyson Fallman said. “Our students really embraced the message and demonstrated how small actions can make a big difference in helping others feel connected.”
The program was organized by school social worker Lauren Narvaez and second grade teacher Michelle Terzi. Teachers shared that their students responded positively to all the activities, which will help foster a sense of community as the school year continues.
