Middle School Students Reflect on Tree of Life Tragedy

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Middle School Students Reflect on Tree of Life Tragedy

Middle School Tree of PromisesDuring an assembly on Dec. 6, Shady Side Academy Middle School students reflected on the tragedy that unfolded at the Tree of Life Synagogue in October. Students and teachers talked about the ways we all can help build tolerance and contribute to a healthy community.

Three sixth graders spoke at the assembly, and Learning Specialist Amy Katz shared a poem. Then students were dismissed to advisory groups to write promises on green cards, which are being posted on a tree mural on the wall of the hallway leading to the cafeteria. Each day, as students walk by the "Tree of Promises," they will remember the ways they can help to make a difference in the world.

The Tree of Promises, pictured here with the first batch of promise cards, will eventually be filled with green cards as students complete their promises.

"Making promises to help others is one way that we can reach out and make a difference," said Interim Middle School Head Brian Johnston. "In reading some of the promise cards that were posted on the banner, our students are making positive choices to impact their world in a more tolerant, accepting way."

The Middle School is also collecting money for the University of Pittsburgh's Child Development Center to purchase and distribute 8,000 books on diversity and tolerance to area schools. Every Friday in December, students will be permitted to dress down for a minimum $1 donation toward this effort. The Senior School's Modern Social Justice Movements Class is also helping to collect these funds.

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