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Widefield School District 3 (WSD3) is using the power of positive peer influence to build inclusive and safe schools in which all students can thrive. 

“After learning about No Place for Hate, I knew it was a perfect fit for our school district who is already active in creating an inclusive and safe learning environment for staff and students,” said Dr. Albert Wiggins, principal of Discovery High School 

Dr. Wiggins helped launch the Anti-Defamation League’s No Place for Hate® (NPFH) initiative in 16 WSD3 schools and at Widefield Parks and Recreation. The initiative provides a framework for combating bias, bullying, and hatred, leading to long-term solutions for creating and maintaining a positive culture. 

“We are boosting the work already being done in student groups, such as Kindness Club, S2S, Sources of Strength, other student groups, and events that already exist in our community,” said Dr. Wiggins. 

NPFH is a student-led approach to addressing challenges in schools that supports the school community and engages stakeholders in active learning. The four phases of being an NPFH school are:

1. Forming a committee

2. Introducing and implementing the NPFH pledge

3. Understanding school climate

4. Conduct activities that are inclusive and promote the site as a No Place for Hate® 

The activities are usually school-based, but can also include community and families as a part of promoting inclusivity.

“One of the events we do each year in WSD3 is A Day Without Hate in which all our schools and community participate in activities that promote kindness, compassion, and respect,” said Dr. Wiggins.

WSD3 schools have received the No Place for Hate® designation by:

• Building inclusive and safe communities in which respect is the goal, and all students can thrive.

• Empowering students, faculty, administration, and family members to take a stand against hate and bullying by incorporating new and existing programs under one powerful message.     

• Engaging schools and communities in at least three anti-bias activities per year, which ADL helps to develop.

• Sending a clear, unified message that all students have a place to belong.

The goal of No Place for Hate® is to inspire a national movement led by students and educators who are committed to using the power of positive peer influence to build inclusive and safe schools in which all students can thrive.

“Our goal is to have 100% of eligible sites to participate, making us a No Place for Hate district,” said Dr. Wiggins.