DSUSD: If You See Something, Say Something

Say Something Week takes place from Monday, March 1 through Friday, March 5

On December 14, 2012, 26 people were killed in a shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School. Family, friends, and caring individuals from around the country committed to creating programs and sharing messages to help prevent schools violence. Two of their programs, including the Say Something Program,  are part of student life at DSUSD schools.

The Start With Hello program teaches children grades K-12 how to empathize with others and create an inclusive and connected school culture. The Say Something Program trains students to look for warning signs and threats of the possibility of their peers at risk of hurting themselves or others and how to speak up to a trusted adult before a tragedy occurs. While this program is geared for students in grades 6-12, many elementary schools modify the message and remind all students to “See Something…Say Something.”

This year the Say Something Week takes place from Monday, March 1 through Friday, March 5 and the schools in DSUSD are sharing the message in a big way. A district-wide campaign will take place. Each day will offer a way to visually show your commitment while providing an opportunity to spread the word. Please join our students and staff in sharing the message. If it is “Dress Like a Superhero Day,” join us and explain to those around you why you dusted off your cape!

In addition to the weeklong events, students have been encouraged to participate in the Superhero Art Contest. We will exhibit as many pieces as possible in the DEC (District Education Center). Students had until February 24 to submit art in any medium. Winners will be announced on March 3.

What does the week of Look-Act-Say have in store?

Monday, March 1: Students, staff, and the community are encouraged to wear green, the signature color for the Sandy Hook Promise and take the pledge that “I will tell a trusted adult if I see a warning sign”.

Tuesday, March 2: Wear glasses or sunglasses. Maybe channel your internal Elton John! And, if you see a sign of bullying, depression, self-harm, or violence – act on it. Remember that the district has a confidential reporting method. Just go to psstworld.com and share what you see and what you know!

Wednesday, March 3: Dress up like a superhero and do a random act of kindness. Bring someone joy. Remember, in today’s world, not all superheroes wear capes!

Thursday, March 4: It’s about being on the same team. We are in this together. Wear your favorite team jersey. How about writing a note to someone in need of a message of support?

Friday, March 5: Take pride in your school! Wear your school gear and take some time for self-care. Take a walk, meditate, listen to your favorite music.

Throughout this challenging year our schools and their student leadership have created a number of “Spirit Weeks.” Some are specific to individual schools while some have been district-wide. Special kudos to the teachers and staff who work with the student leadership at our schools to find ways to remain positive as they lift up the spirits of everyone connected to Desert Sands Unified School District.