North Shore students unite against bullying on Unity Day

Joining schools nationwide, North Shore Middle School students and staff observed PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Month by celebrating Unity Day on Oct. 22.

Students took part in discussions about what bullying looks like within their school community and explored ways to build a more inclusive and respectful environment throughout the day. The activities were led by school counselors Flavia Finning, Aimee Canzoniero, and Thomas Pfingst, along with middle school teachers.

Students took the Unity Day Pledge, committing to support others who have been hurt or harmed, treat others with kindness, accept people’s differences, and include those who may be left out as part of the event as well.

To help foster connection, students participated in a “Human Scavenger Hunt Bingo,” a game that encouraged them to find classmates with shared interests and experiences. The activity highlighted that, while everyone is different, they also share many common traits.

For Unity Day, the color orange represents kindness, acceptance, and inclusion, and it's worn to stand against bullying. The color is also associated with autumn, which is when the event takes place, and signifies safety and visibility.

The goal of Unity Day was to remind students that they are all part of the North Shore community and that kindness and respect are key to ensuring everyone feels safe and valued. The event reflected the school’s “S.H.O.R.E. Way” values — Scholarship, Honesty, Ownership, Respect and Empathy.