Start With Hello encourages students to make an effort to connect with others, especially fellow students they may not know well or someone having a hard time.

All students at Pine Bush Elementary Pine Bush Elementary learned about Start With Hello and its three-step approach to building the school community. Principal Eric Winter discussed with the students how doing just a few kind things can make school a place where students and staff like to come.

 

Start With Hello is a three-step process. First, recognize the signs of loneliness. It could be someone all alone but it could also be someone sitting among a group but not participating. They may have their head down and shoulders drooping.

“We want to be thoughtful and observant of others,” said Mr. Winter.

Once loneliness is recognized, the second step is to reach out and help. Find out what you can do to help others feel included.

Finally, it starts with hello. Mr. Winter talked about the importance of the word “hello.” Sometimes it’s in the form of other words or phrases, like “How are you doing?” or “Good morning.” Whatever the case, it’s important to start a conversation with folks, he stressed to the children.

He recruited volunteers who did a great job of role playing. The student reaching out found a common interest with the isolated student – favorite video game or a favorite sport. Finding a topic they have in common helps build a bond and gets the conversation going.

“When someone feels alone or anxious every day, if they’re not included, they don’t want to come to school,” said Mr. Winter. “We don’t ostracize anyone. And we give people the opportunity to say ‘yes, I want to join in.’ This is so important. It will help make PBE a great place. It’s up to all of us.”

And it starts with a simple word: hello.