Students and school staff members are taking on bullying to help create a safer environment within the district.
Middletown Federation of Teachers President Kevin Doran, a teacher at Keigwin Middle School, said each of the 6,000 students and staff will soon receive orange wristbands, and will be encouraged to wear orange clothing to celebrate Unity Day on Oct. 25.
"It's a time for everyone to come together and rally against bullying in the schools," Doran said.
Doran said each school is planning its own way to participate in Unity Day. Some are taking school photos, some are preparing assemblies and others are doing skits, he said.
"We want kids to feel safe when they leave home and come to school," Doran said. "They shouldn't have to worry about being picked on or anything like that. We want them to know school is a safe place and that we're all here to help, no matter what the problem is."
Doran said the wristbands will be delivered to the district on Monday, and will be distributed Wednesday or Thursday. He said the wristbands say "Middletown Public Schools" on one side and "Be Good to Each Other" on the other.
Board of education Vice Chairwoman Sheila Daniels announced the district's participation in the program at the board's Oct. 8 meeting.
"Hopefully every student and staff member will wear them, and every student and staff member will see it on their hand and make a conscious effort to be good to each other," Daniels said.
Superintendent Patricia Charles said the wristbands and orange clothing will show the school community is united against bullying.
"Our schools have worked hard to create a positive learning climate where every child feels valued and respected. The wristbands will remind everyone of this critical mission," Charles said.
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