Peasley Middle School was commended for its commitment to “Start With Hello” week, a campaign spearheaded by Sandy Hook Promise to reduce gun violence in schools, during a ceremony at the Gloucester school on Monday.

In total, 12,000 schools participated this year, and Peasley was recognized as the top school for their work spreading the message of Sandy Hook Promise.

Students and teachers wrote “Kindness Cards” to put in lockers as well as leaving positive messages around the school. Eighth grade students also communicated with incoming sixth graders to encourage them and offer advice as they began their middle school experience.

In Monday’s assembly, students and teachers wore green clothing in honor of Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut and were joined by Nicole Hockley, the mother of one of the victims—Dylan. 

“You are the ones that are going to make a change happen,” she said to the students. Hockley also encourag...