Wantagh Middle School Again Designated 'No Place For Hate'

WANTAGH, NY — Wantagh Middle School has been designated as one of the nation's 1,600 "No Place for Hate" schools for the third year in a row.

The designation, which is granted by the Anti-Defamation League, was achieved through the school's sponsorship of activities that promote acceptance, tolerance and kindness on campus and the school's messaging that all students have a place to belong.

"No Place for Hate is a self-directed program helping all of the stakeholders take the lead on improving and maintaining school climate so all students can thrive," the Anti-Defamation League's website reads.

In order to be considered for the No Place for Hate designation, Wantagh Middle School completed a needs assessment, formed a No Place for Hate committee, signed a Resolution of Respect and implemented at least three school-wide anti-bias or anti-bullying activities.

In February, Wantagh Middle School held a No Place for Hate Day, during which students participated in content-based activities and reflected on the promotion of tolerance, acceptance and kindness toward others in the school community and beyond.

Lessons about these important concepts were incorporated into the curriculum through videos, music, math, reading material, physical education activities, artwork and meaningful discussions.

In addition, the school hosted a Spread the Word Day that was designed as a day of inclusion. Students watched a video, made pledges that they would be more inclusive and had conversations with staff on what it means to be inclusive. The middle school also placed messages on classroom doors that promoted the idea that people should be kind to one another.

Also, while not a formal No Place for Hate activity, the middle school held High-Five Friday in which students and faculty volunteered to give a high-five to members of the school community who entered the building.

Upstanders Club Adviser Kristin Piciullo said activities like Spread the Word Day are always important to the culture of a school.

“The way faculty and students came together to learn about each other and to show acceptance and kindness was invaluable,” she said. “The dedication to making our school the best it can be is fantastic.”

Principal Anthony Ciuffo recognized Piciullo's efforts and the work of students and staff in helping the school gain the designation.

“It is Ms. Piciullo’s perseverance and dedication that helped us to earn this prestigious honor once again,” he said. “Our students and staff embraced every activity, and I am so grateful that we were able to collaboratively make our school and community a better place.”