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Aaron School 30th Street enthusiastically welcomed David Flood for an Anti-Bullying Assembly on Thursday, November 14, 2019! David is a motivational speaker who has educated students all over the country about patience, understanding, kindness, acceptance, and tolerance. The assembly began with David sharing personal stories about how his own children have navigated some challenging social situations during their middle and high school years. He discussed the differences between “sympathy” and “empathy,” communicating that sometimes people don’t always think about what others may be feeling. David then asked the audience to turn to the person next to them and express, “When I look at you, I see…” David brought up a student volunteer to demonstrate this exercise and then called upon students in the audience to share what they said about their partners. Responses included “a good friend,” “honesty,” “confidence,” and “myself.” David used this exercise to challenge the students to “look on the INSIDE” and to think about how others might be feeling, beyond what may be seen on the outside.

David continued the assembly by posing two more challenges. The second challenge was to “thank” at least two teachers. David then shared a powerful story about how his son’s classmates looked out for him, and conveyed to the audience that, “if you show up for someone, someone will show up for you.” By demonstrating kindness, or “showing up” for someone, there are many who can benefit from the gesture including the person who is being kind, the person receiving the kindness, and anyone else who witnesses the act of kindness.

Lastly, David’s third challenge to the students was to make sure that “no one eats alone,” a challenge that the Aaron School embraces at the beginning of each school year. He shared that everyone is happier when they are in the presence of others. Overall, David’s inspiring presentation contributed to the inclusive school climate and encouraged students to think about ways to positively impact others.