At FishHawk Creek Elementary, we are committed to fostering a school environment where every child feels safe, seen, and supported. That’s why we proudly participate in Start With Hello Week, an evidence-informed program developed by Sandy Hook Promise that helps students recognize social isolation and build a more inclusive community.
Start With Hello is designed for students of all ages and includes flexible training options and a developmentally appropriate curriculum. The program is built around three core goals:
Recognize loneliness and social isolation in their peers
Help peers who may be feeling left out
Grow an empathetic and inclusive community
These goals are taught through a simple but powerful three-step framework:
See Someone Alone – Understand what social isolation looks like and why connection matters.
Reach Out and Help – Learn strategies to connect with others and overcome the anxiety of reaching out.
Start With Hello – Practice inclusive behaviors and build lasting relationships.
What’s Happening This Week at FishHawk Creek
We’ve planned a week full of engaging activities to help students put these lessons into action:
Monday, September 15 – HIGH 5
Students will make name tags and choose their favorite way to say hello.Tuesday, September 16 – ENCOURAGE EVERYONE
It’s “Give a Compliment Day” and a chance to complete acts of kindness.Wednesday, September 17 – LEARN A LANGUAGE
Students will learn to say hello in a new language and speak to someone new.Thursday, September 18 – LOOK FOR A FRIEND
Students will send a “hello-gram” to a classmate and thank a trusted adult.Friday, September 19 – OWN IT
Everyone is encouraged to wear green and take the Start With Hello Promise Pledge.
How You Can Support
We encourage you to talk with your child about what they’re learning this week. Ask them who they said hello to, how they helped someone feel included, or what kindness means to them. Your support at home reinforces the values we’re building together at school.
Thank you for partnering with us to create a culture of kindness and belonging. Together, we can help every child feel connected and cared for.