Schools receive national recognition for creating safe and inclusive school communities in an unprecedented year

June 7, 2021

Sandy Hook Promise recognized Students Against Violence Everywhere (SAVE) Promise Clubs at six Pinellas schools for outstanding work to create safer and kinder schools. Congratulations to SAVE Clubs at Lakeview Fundamental Elementary, Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Elementary, San Jose Elementary, Tarpon Springs Elementary, Safety Harbor Middle and Hollins High!

Nationwide, clubs at 36 schools from 14 states were recognized. Each winning club will receive $250 for their club activities.  

Learn more about the 2021 SAVE Promise Club Awards earned by Pinellas schools:

Elementary

Upstander Award: Lakeview Fundamental Elementary School

It’s all about inclusion at Lakeview! All third-fifth grade students were invited to join the SAVE Promise Club this year, and with 30 members, it’s a Club of Upstanders! They also have their own SAVE Advisory Board.

Overall Club Award: Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Elementary School

Not only did the SAVE Promise Club promote non-violence, antiracism, anti-bullying, kindness, respect, and tolerance during the pandemic, they also presented a breakout session and shared their wisdom at the virtual National SAVE Youth Summit! 

Service Project Award: San Jose Elementary School

A Peanut Butter Challenge: The Club has collected over 1,000 jars of peanut butter and jelly to support the Dunedin Cares organization. They’ve got community-wide support, including local organizations and the mayor!

Inclusion Award: Tarpon Springs Elementary School

The SAVE Promise Club came up with the idea to assign a color of the month to help remind the school community about the importance of inclusivity and acceptance. Each month, students and staff were encouraged to wear the color, which was tied to a theme centered around friendships and acceptance. 

Middle

Overall Club Award: Safety Harbor Middle School

From a canned food drive to a special Say Something Video that was aired during the National Say Something Week Pep Rally, students at Safety Harbor Middle School were active in countless ways. How can you spot a SHMS SAVE Member? Look for a special SAVE mask, and a smile behind it!

High

Youth Encouragement Award: Hollins High School

Hollins High SAVE Promise Club was busy finding ways to encourage all their students and staff to take part in events throughout the year. They sponsored poster and essay contests, hosted school wide virtual assemblies and found ways to encourage and reach every student.