Many students face discrimination in New York City public schools, with a rise from 10.5 incidents per 1,000 students to 25.8 from 2014 to 2019.
To combat this, many schools have been designated ‘Respect for All’ schools in New York City- including John Dewey High School in 2022.
In the month of February, schools encourage students to respect others in order to reduce bullying.
From February 9-13, John Dewey School hosted a week dedicated to supporting students and the many issues they face- including oppression, bullying, and facing discrimination.
Every day has a different theme and dress code, which allows you to understand which people support which group.
Monday kicks off Respect for All week, with students and staff having the option to wear John Dewey gear to show support for acts of kindness. On Tuesday, blue for anti-bullying and cyberbullying. Wednesday, signs of their culture to show acceptance for diversity, Thursday, purple to support the LGBTQ+ community, and wearing red, pink, or black on Friday for “No One Eats Alone Day.”
“Students can show respect to each other by saying hello to someone they don’t know,” says Ms. Frias, an assistant principal and the coordinator for Respect for All week.
Ms. Frias’ quote reflects the school’s belief that respect can even be shown through small, yet positive everyday actions, making people feel included and welcomed.
According to the event organizers of Respect for All week, John Dewey’s community can model respect through telling students and staff positive comments, asking about their day, and through our daily announcements.
Students also have their own opinions on how to show respect, like “Not insulting each other even if it’s a joke,” said Naomi Rosas, a freshman at John Dewey High School.
During RFA week, Dewey students also participate in a raffle for showing acts of kindness. A teacher who “catches” students doing something kind will give them a ticket, which can be turned in to the attendance office.
Winners ranged from freshman all the way to seniors, showing that even upperclassmen didn’t feel too old or mature to be respectful in school.
Many Dewey staff come together to donate items to create gift baskets filled with items that have teenagers in mind- such as candy, plushies, and gift cards.
One of the raffle winners with a basket containing candy, cake pops, and other assorted sweets.
“It shows how people can learn from their mistakes,” said Gabriel Hernandez, a freshman at John Dewey High School. “People can make mistakes, but it’s okay. As long as you treat others the same way you want to be treated.”
By doing this, students can show respect for each other and that they are aware of others around them.
“You’re never alone, you always have people that are looking out for you,” said Hernandez. “Everyone at John Dewey High School is part of a caring community where students and staff can look out for each other. It shows the importance of respecting everyone in your community, supporting, and ensuring that no one feels isolated, or left out.”