From April 20-24, Geneseo High School traded its usual routine for a celebration of kindness, inclusion, and community, with each day bringing a new way for students and staff to connect.
Megan Miller, who teaches health and physical education, and Megan VerStraete, a life skills teacher, organized Respect Week at GHS with help from the Unified PE class, which is pictured below.
“Each year, the Special Olympics hosts a ‘Respect Week’ in March,” said Miller. “It’s a statewide initiative that encourages students to promote inclusion, kindness, and respect in their schools and communities. We were inspired by that and decided to host our own GHS Respect Week.”
MONDAY: EVERYONE SHOULD FEEL COMFORTABLE AT GHS
It all began on Monday, when comfort set the tone. Pajamas and sweats filled classrooms as everyone was reminded that feeling safe and relaxed is part of being respected. The day kicked off with a school-wide assembly, setting the stage for what the week is really about: showing up for each other.
TUESDAY: UNITED WE STAND
By Tuesday, the energy shifted to unity. Red, white, and blue lined the hallways as students and staff came together under the idea that even with differences, they stand stronger side by side. It’s not just about colors; it’s about belonging.
WEDNESDAY: CELEBRATE OUR DIFFERENCES
Wednesday brought one of the most colorful moments of the week. Crazy socks and gold outfits celebrated individuality while reinforcing a simple message: treat others the way you want to be treated. It was a day where standing out and lifting others up went hand in hand.
THURSDAY: A TEACHER, CELEBRITY OR ROLE MODEL
On Thursday, respect became personal. Students were invited to dress as someone they admire, whether that was a teacher, a celebrity, or anyone who inspires them. It was a chance to reflect on the people who shape who we are and recognize the impact of positive role models.
FRIDAY: INVISIBILITY DISABILITY AWARENESS
GHS wrapped up its Respect Week on Friday with its focus on invisible disabilities, encouraging awareness for things we can’t always see. The grand finale was the much-anticipated Spring Splash, where students and staff gathered at Bob Reade Field for a spirited, Polar Plunge-style event to raise funds for the high school’s Life Skills program and Inspire Continuing Care.
In the midst of the festivities, a large group of students who were awarded bracelets from teachers throughout the week for showing kindness, inclusion, and respect gathered for recognition (see photo at the top of this page). With costumes, fundraising, and a shared purpose, it was a celebration that blended fun with giving back.
KINDNESS NEVER GOES OUT OF STYLE
“Respect Week wasn't just about themed days,” said Miller. “Throughout the week, small acts mattered most. Teachers handed out bracelets to students who showed kindness, inclusion, and respect. It was about turning everyday moments into something worth recognizing.”