*FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE*
H.E. Winkler Middle School to Receive ‘Start With Hello’ Award from
Leading Violence Prevention Organization Sandy Hook Promise
WHEN: Tuesday, September 4, 2018| Time: 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM
WHERE: H.E. Winkler Middle School – 4501 Weddington Road NW, Concord, NC 28027
WHO: H.E. Winkler Middle School Students, Sandy Hook Promise
VISUALS:
- Sandy Hook Promise presenting the students of H.E. Winkler Middle School with award
- Over 1,000 students attending the award ceremony,
- Students creating murals and chalk drawings
WHAT: On Tuesday, September 4th, Sandy Hook Promise (SHP) will visit H.E. Winkler Middle School to present students with the 2018 Start With Hello Student Spirit, Creativity, and Sustainability runner-up award. The students of H.E. Winkler Middle School are being recognized for their outstanding efforts to creatively integrate and implement the core values of SHP’s Start With Hello program among its student body. Following the success of the Start With Hello program at H.E. Winkler Middle school, the Cabarrus County Schools is looking to roll out SAVE Promise Clubs in every middle school this year, as well as to every elementary and high school next year.
“Winkler Middle School is excited to accept the award for our work with Start With Hello! Our students work very hard to create a school where all of our students feel welcome and accepted,” said Michael Williams, principal of H.E. Winkler Middle School. “Our SAVE Promise Club, students, and teachers look forward to continuing to support SAVE Promise and Sandy Hook Promise during Start With Hello Week this year!”
Start With Hello is an results proven and easy to implement program that empowers students to create an inclusive and connected community by reaching out to those who may be chronically isolated, marginalized or rejected, to let them know that they are seen and valued. The program is available to schools at no-cost.
Social isolation is the overwhelming feeling of being left out, lonely, or treated like you are invisible. It is a growing epidemic in the United States and within our schools. Excessive feelings of isolation can be associated with violent and suicidal behavior. Young people who are isolated can become victims of bullying, violence and/or depression. As a result, many pull away from society, struggle with learning and social development, and may choose to hurt themselves or others. SHP created the Start With Hello program as part of its mission to prevent gun violence – and other forms of violence – before it takes place.
H.E. Winkler Middle School was one of over 1,300 schools and youth organizations that participated in SHP’s 3rd Annual Start With Hello Week that took place from February 5 – 9, 2018.
Media is invited to attend the presentation. School administrators and students will be available for interviews. Please contact Stephanie Morris at [email protected] for interview requests.
Since its inception, SHP has educated over 3.5 million youths and adults in all 50 states with its Know The Signs Programs on mental health & wellness, identification of at-risk behaviors and how to take action and get help before a situation escalates. Those trained are now able to spread SHP’s vital messages and help prevent gun violence BEFORE it happens.
About Sandy Hook Promise: Sandy Hook Promise (SHP) is a national, nonprofit organization based in Newtown, Connecticut. We are led by several family members whose loved ones were killed in the tragic mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School on December 14, 2012 that claimed the lives of 20 first-graders and 6 educators. SHP is focused on preventing gun violence (and other forms of violence and victimization) BEFORE it happens by educating and mobilizing youth and adults on mental health and wellness programs that identify, intervene and help at-risk individuals. SHP is a moderate, above-the-politics organization that supports sensible non-policy and policy solutions that protect children and prevent gun violence. Our intent is to honor all victims of gun violence by turning our tragedy into a moment of transformation. For more information, visit www.sandyhookpromise.org or call 203-304-9780.
** PRESS MUST REQUEST ACCESS**
For media requests, please contact: Stephanie Morris at [email protected] or 646-650-5005