Andre Elliott, shown speaking at Whittier Elementary School, delivered thought-provoking messages in Westerville schools this week.
A number of Westerville City Schools elementary students are participating in the national Start with Hello week, a program designed to raise awareness and educate students and the community about the growing epidemic of social isolation. It empowers young people to create a culture of inclusion and connectedness within their school or youth organization, reducing the risk of bullying, violence and depression. Speakers, posters and activities could be seen and heard throughout the district in an effort to create a culture that values kindness and safety.
Start with Hello was created by Sandy Hook Promise (SHP), a nonprofit organization led by several family members who lost loved ones at the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting on December 14, 2012. Based in Newtown, Connecticut, SHP’s mission is to prevent gun violence before it happens by teaching youth and adults how to recognize the signs, intervene and get help for individuals who may be a risk of hurting themselves or others. For further information, please visit www.sandyhookpromise.org.