Kiser Middle School Students Promoted Inclusivity
Students in Greensboro created a video for the Start With Hello program to foster new social connections.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Secondary Education
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Kiser Middle School students produced a video as part of the Sandy Hook Promise Start With Hello initiative. The project aims to prevent student isolation and foster a more welcoming environment for new sixth graders and transitioning eighth graders.
Why it matters
The program addresses the social transition challenges faced by middle schoolers by teaching students how to identify and support peers who may feel disconnected. By promoting inclusivity, the school seeks to proactively strengthen its community and prevent potential violence.
The Start With Hello program was developed by the Sandy Hook Promise to teach students skills to foster inclusive school environments. Students at Kiser Middle School are using theater arts production methods to produce material aimed at building friendships.
The players
Kiser Middle School
This educational institution in Greensboro serves students in the middle school grades.
Sandy Hook Promise
This national nonprofit organization focuses on protecting children from gun violence through educational programs and policy advocacy.
The details
Coordinated by the school counselor and theater teacher, students utilized multiple takes and production techniques to create a video that encourages peers to invite isolated classmates into their social groups. Classroom activities continue to reinforce these inclusive behaviors through visual learning aids.
Timeline
October 12, 2026: The student project was reported.
Remainder of the school year: Commitment to maintain an inclusive school environment.
Culture Shift
The project follows the pedagogical framework established by the Sandy Hook Promise Start With Hello program to build school-wide social cohesion. This initiative reflects a broader societal trend of schools prioritizing social-emotional learning to mitigate bullying and social exclusion.
Students are adopting specific daily habits, such as inviting peers into social groups, to directly improve the school climate. This initiative requires consistent practice from the student body to build lasting interpersonal connections during the academic year.
The takeaway
School-led inclusivity efforts provide students with structured tools to navigate the social pressures of middle school transitions. Parents and students can support these initiatives by encouraging participation in peer-to-peer connection activities.
What happens next
Students are scheduled to participate in the A Trusted Adult program during the remainder of the 2026-2027 school year.
Further reading
Find more local school updates in the Secondary Education section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Myfox8.
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