Del. school participates in “Start With Hello” week

Two Sussex Academy students wear green, the official color for Start With Hello Week (credit: Gina Derrickson)

GEORGETOWN, Del. – One Sussex county school is taking initiative to combat social isolation by participating in “Start With Hello” week.

Social isolation is becoming a widespread issue across our nation, especially within our schools. Extreme feelings of isolation can be linked to violent and suicidal behavior. Young people who are isolated tend to become victims of bullying, violence, and/or depression.

Start With Hello week was created to teach students in grades 2 through 12 the skills they need to be kind and reach out to those who may be battling social isolation, and help institute a culture of inclusion, kindness, and connectivity with others in their classrooms, schools, and youth organizations.

The purpose of this week is to help raise awareness and educate students and the community about social isolation through trainings, advertising, media events, student contests, and school awards.

Sussex Academy is just one of hundreds of schools across the United States participating in Start With Hello week.