January 18, 2008 — Anne Odum, principal of Matzke Elementary School, announced this week the school’s plan to become a No Place for Hate school in 2008.

The No Place for Hate program is part of the Anti-Defamation League’s effort to eliminate bias and spread diversity among schools, churches, businesses and community organizations.

“Matzke must be a place where everyone feels welcomed, safe and respected, regardless of their gender, race, ethnicity, religion or cultural background,” Odum said.

To support this effort, the school has formed a coalition of teachers, administrators, students and community members who have pledged to help Matzke win the No Place for Hate award—given annually to private and public schools that demonstrate a commitment to honoring diversity on their campuses.

Matzke’s theme for 2008, “It’s Cool to be Kind,” encourages students to reach out to all members of the Matzke community in a positive manner, through acts and words of kindness. The school has raised awareness of kind and inclusive behavior through school-wide activities such as celebrating World Kindness Week in November 2007.

Matzke is designating February as “Celebrate Diversity” month, and is also planning a “Mix It Up At Lunch” day where students and staff will eat with a new group.

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