FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NATIONAL CIVIL RIGHTS GROUP RECOGNIZES ETTIE LEE/OFL FOR TOLERANCE EFFORTS

 

  

"We are delighted to recognize each of these schools," said Teaching Tolerance Director, Maureen Costello. "Mix-It-Up Model Schools have found innovative ways to create a school environment where respect and inclusiveness are core values. They serve as examples for other schools hoping to instill these values in their students, faculty and staff."

 

The 2012 National Mix-It-Up at Lunch Day will be held on October 30th. A list of the model schools can be found at www.tolerance.org/mix-it-up/model-schools

 

For more than a decade, Mix-It-Up Day has provided students across the country with an opportunity to move out of their comfort zones and connect with someone new over lunch. It's a simple act with profound implications as studies have shown that interactions across group lines can help reduce prejudice. Many schools plan activities for the entire day, and some use the event to kick off a year long exploration of social divisions. Last year, 5,500 schools took part in the event.

 

The Mix-It-Up Model Schools met five criteria. They each hosted a Mix-It-Up at Lunch Day in 2011; they included different members of the school's community - cafeteria staff, aides, administrators, teachers or students - in organizing the event; they followed up with at least two additional Mix-It-Up related programs or events on campus; they publicized Mix-It-Up at Lunch Day or celebrated inclusiveness with posters, announcements and other media; and their event was seen by students and school officials as a success.