Press Release

"Bullyproofing" Challenge Nets Gilpin Elementary School Principal In Pajamas
Wednesday, May 2

April 30, 2001

Gilpin Elementary School this year worked to build a "Caring Community Where Teachers Can Teach And Children Can Learn."

One element of the effort was to acknowledge and reward good behavior. Each time a student or classroom behaved in an exemplary fashion, a teacher could "refer" the student for academic progress, kindness to others or any activity which would help build the "caring community" of Gilpin.

As each referral was made, the student's name was placed on a piece of paper. The challenge to the students was simple: if the paper chain of names traveled from the psychologists' office to the main office by May 1, 2001, the "Bullyproofing Team" would wear pajamas to the school in celebration.

The Gilpin students did it - more than 500 names are now on the chain - and their reward comes Wednesday (May 2). Principal Janet Box, assistant principal Venita O'Hara, and school psychologist Ried Bloomberg will dress in their finest sleepwear as a thank you to the student body.

The program was launched to decrease classroom behaviors that interfere with the learning process and improve student coping skills when dealing with conflict. Assessment of the program is in progress. Gilpin staff have noticed a significant decrease in referrals for poor behavior.

For more information, please call Gilpin principal Janet Box, 303-297-0313.