This week-long celebration highlights the importance of inclusion and celebrates the diverse identities, backgrounds, and abilities of our students and staff. Throughout the district, each school will engage in a variety of activities designed to promote kindness, empathy, and unity.
Highlights from our schools include:
● Rome Free Academy: Students will engage in self-reflection through poetry and art, with selected works displayed in the school lobby. Free-verse poems will be shared over morning announcements each day.
● John Joy Elementary: Activities include paired reading sessions, the creation of self-portraits in an art project titled "yoUniquely You," and daily morning announcements emphasizing inclusivity.
● Strough Middle School: Students will create a slideshow highlighting how adults in the school support inclusivity. A paper chain with words of inclusion will be displayed, and the library will feature books that reflect diverse cultures and abilities.
● Bellamy Elementary: Students will express themselves through a unique sneaker design workshop and a daily book reading. An "Open Mic Self Expression Box" will allow students to share poetry, drawings, and artwork.
● Denti Elementary: A large "Every Voice Matters" banner will be displayed, and a menu of classroom activities will encourage discussions on diversity and belonging. Denti will also host a Winter Fest celebration in December featuring cultural food and traditions.
● Gansevoort Elementary: Students will participate in a school-wide activity based on the book Just Ask by Sonia Sotomayor, which will be shared with families via ParentSquare.
● Ridge Mills Elementary: Themed around the idea that "We are as YOUnique as snowflakes," Ridge Mills will feature art projects, daily announcements, and sensory activities that highlight inclusivity.
● Stokes Elementary: Activities will focus on different aspects of inclusivity each day, such as kindness, teamwork, and disability awareness, with events like cultural show-and-tell and empathy stations.
● Pre-K: Students will celebrate the week with themed dress-up days, including "Be Unique Day" and "Hero Day," as well as activities focused on friendship and kindness.
These engaging activities are designed to foster a deeper understanding of inclusivity, encourage acceptance, and celebrate the unique qualities that make each of us special. We invite the entire community to join in and support our students as they celebrate Inclusive Schools Week in the Rome City School District!
