Pictured: Berner Middle School held its annual Character Education Day on March 28. From left are Chiefs Challenge co-adviser Caroline Glynn, Principal Jason Esposito, students Kiera Salembier and Madigan Reilly, co-adviser Juliette Happe and Executive Assistant to the Principal Beth Mullins.
Photos courtesy of the Massapequa School District
Every year, a day is devoted to building a positive climate and culture at Berner Middle School in the Massapequa School District. Character Education Day, organized by the Chiefs Challenge Club, was held on March 28 will nine periods of activities that focused on bringing out the good in all students.
The day began with students watching “Wonder,” about a boy with a rare genetic disorder who tries to fit in at school. The movie emphasizes that simple acts of kindness can make a big difference.
There were activities based on this year’s selection in the One School, One Book initiative, “Posted.” In “Find your tribe,” icebreaker questions about their likes and interests were used to spark discussions among students and build new friendships. Students made aphorism bumper stickers with slogans about the power of words to understand how their words can affect others.
Seventh graders, from left, Ryan MacMelville, Matthew Buchalter and Austin Van Roten found inspirational messages on their lockers.
For a group activity, students filled in paper T-shirts with anti-bullying words and phrases. The day also included discussions on the themes and messages of “Posted” and “Wonder,” and concluded with reflections on the lessons learned.
Chiefs Challenge members posted cards with inspirational messages on every locker to spread positivity throughout the school. They also created large posters with messages about acceptance, kindness and respect.
Every teacher received a packet with the different activities and discussion prompts noted Chiefs Challenge advisers Caroline Glynn and Juliette Happe.
Students worked on an activity, based on the book “Posted,” about their values.
“Character Education Day teaches people that words can hurt and that kindness matters,” said Chiefs Challenge member Isabell Greve.
Eighth grader Kiera Salembier said the greatest lesson from the day was to be an upstander, not a bystander, by sticking up for others. Madigan Reilly emphasized treating everyone equally and also having a group of people someone can turn to for support.
“Character is important every day at Berner Middle School,” Principal Jason Esposito said. “Days like this help further awareness that our actions and words make a difference.”
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