Week of Respect

By law, NJ schools are to observe this week beginning the first Monday in October. The purpose of this week is to provide age-appropriate instruction focusing on preventing harassment, intimidation, or bullying. Van Derveer School had a fantastic “Week of Respect” which ran October 3^rd-7^th. Each morning, Van Derveer students reflected on a “Respect Quote” from influential people of the past and present.  On October 3^rd, Mrs. Haynes and I read the story “Have You Filled Your Bucket Today?” to students and staff members.  The bucket filling theory has caught on quickly in our school!

In preparation for the “Week of Respect” students attended a dynamic anti-bullying assembly entitled “The Power of One”.  The program empowered VDV students and was well received by all.  To continue the anti-bullying momentum, staff and students signed our anti-bullying pledge. Those who signed it have pledged to keep VDV BULLY-FREE by being upstanders rather than bystanders, by reporting bullying, and to never bully any individual in our school. I must say that students have been incredibly enthusiastic and cooperative in keeping VDV BULLY- FREE.  We are proud of our students!  We will we be observing School Violence Awareness Week October 17^th-21^st followed by Red Ribbon Week October 22^nd-30^th.  The staff and teachers of VDV have worked hard to create meaningful lessons and activities during these important weeks for our students benefit.  Our thanks to “The Ville” for all that you do for our students and school!