An initiative has been introduced at GMMS this year to promote a more inclusive and respectful school environment. The program, known as No Place for Hate, is a school-based initiative developed by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL). Its core goal is to reduce bias, bullying and hate by empowering students and staff to take an active role in shaping a positive school climate. At GMMS, the initiative has been integrated into the school’s existing crew structure, making it a consistent part of the student’s routine.
The school began participating in the program at the start of the school year. Over the summer, members of the administrative team completed an online course through the ADL to deepen their understanding of the program and plan for implementation. By late fall, the initiative was introduced to faculty, building awareness and support among staff. Soon after, a student-led No Place for Hate committee was formed, bringing together 14 students from all three grade levels to guide the program’s direction.
Students have played a central role in shaping the program. The committee has met multiple times throughout the year, beginning with a review of the No Place for Hate Promise to identify key focus areas relevant to their school community. From there, students took ownership by designing lessons tied to those priorities. In a notable step, they presented one of these lessons directly to teachers during team meetings, ensuring staff understood both the goals and implementation.
One standout example of student leadership involved small groups presenting their work to teachers. These students confidently introduced an activity they had created, clearly explaining its purpose and intended impact. They didn’t stop at explanation; teachers were invited to participate in the activity themselves, helping build a shared understanding of the student experience. To further support implementation, three students produced a short video modeling the activity, providing a practical guide for both teachers and peers.
The response from students has been overwhelmingly positive. The No Place for Hate Promise has helped establish a shared language across the school, one that students are beginning to use independently. In conversations and meetings, students have referenced the promise to reflect on their actions, guide decision-making and hold one another accountable in respectful ways.
As the program continues to grow, it is already becoming an embedded part of daily life at GMMS, shaping not only how students interact, but how they understand their role in building a more inclusive school community.
Submitted by Granby Public Schools