Fair Lawn – Memorial Middle School is one of 10 middle schools in the state to take part in a program that aims to improve school inclusion.

The Inclusive School Climate Initiative (ISCI) is run through the Center for Applied Psychology at Rutgers University with the NJ Department of Education.

"We were really honored to take this endeavor with them," said Laurianne Brunetti, a teacher and the character education coordinator at the school.

According to the Center for Applied Psychology, "ISCI is designed to improve school inclusion practices by creating a school climate that provides opportunities for growth and development for all students and improves engagement and social participation of students with disabilities."

"It is to promote inclusive, supportive environments," said Memorial Principal Natalie Lacatena.

As a participant in the program, the school is receiving a $2,500 grant this year and another $2,500 next year.

Lacatena said the school conducted a survey of parents, staff and students last year about the school’s environment. The grant funds will enable the school to address some of the things that came up in the survey results.

"We did well, but we can always improve," said Lacatena. "We want it to be a safe, inclusive environment."

Part of the program requirements is to bring another school on board. Lacatena said the school will most likely work with Thomas Jefferson Middle School so all middle school students can benefit.

Brunetti pointed to activities such as the recent Character Cavalcade that work to draw all students together

"It is powerful and productive for team building," Brunetti said. "It has the kids all feel like they are part of something."

As part of the Character Cavalcade each grade level has a chance to take part in a variety of activities such as an obstacle course where students work together in teams. The award-winning event has been held 10 years as a way to teach students about cooperation, team building and leadership. It is held during a week dedicated to character education and October is National Bullying Prevention Month.

Lacatena said taking part in the initiative enables the school to continue the programs it already has in place and add to them while focusing on getting all students involved.

A team from the middle school recently attended a kick off event for the initiative in Trenton.

"It is an outstanding achievement," said Superintendent of Schools Bruce Watson at the recent Board of Education meeting about the school’s selection for the program.

E-mail: putrino@northjersey.com