These building blocks are key to creating a space where everyone feels valued and understood.

Respect is at the heart of any positive environment. When people feel respected, they’re more likely to share their unique ideas and perspectives.

Building connections means engaging with each other—whether through shared experiences, team-building, or community projects—to create bonds that strengthen teamwork and support.

Bringing people together is especially important in diverse settings. Focusing on common goals and shared values helps bridge gaps and build a sense of belonging. Talking openly about challenges and successes lets us celebrate what makes us different while finding common ground.

Together, we can shape a space that’s more inclusive, supportive, and forward-thinking. Let’s commit to showing respect, building meaningful connections, and finding unity.

“I've been in the game a long time as a school psychologist. In 35 years… I've never seen anything like it.” - Jim Ott, School Psychologist, Bellevue Community School District, Iowa

“ Shout out to Craig Scott, who came to our school in Maine years ago. It was the most amazing experience for our district; we were able to change the school climate for over three years! It made an impact, and I’m very excited to hear he’s back, and to have a Stronger Connections Grant to be able to bring him back… there is no other story that gives the impact that Craig’s does, his experience through this tragedy, his ability to explain the importance of forgiveness, of not being angry, and how important it is to be kind in this world. It is something we all need, and I look forward to having him!” - Leslee Smith Mahon, LCPC School Counselor at Maine's MSAD #70 Mill Pond School

STUDENTS

“I think it’s really important that we focus on mental health now because it’s just a major issue. So many people go through it and I believe that as high school students, we need to know that there are other people going through the same thing. When he came it just showed us so much about our mental health and other people’s mental health and how we affect other people.” Allie Anglin, Hancock High School. by WLOX

“It was really powerful. I just, I pray that it reached a lot of people’s hearts. Every day I pray before I get to school that I stay safe and that everybody else stays safe and that it never crosses anybody’s mind. ”

Brooklynn Montana, Gulfport High senior - by WLOX

“You gave a great speech and now it's changing our school. I like what it does for our school, everybody here is making a difference in someone else's day.” –Tyson, High School Senior

“I’ve learned that forgiveness is the number one thing,” said Hancock High School student Cadence Ladner. “It’s been hard, but I have been trying my best. With Craig coming in and talking about forgiveness, I feel like it’s going to help me.” by WLOX

EDUCATORS

"To say Craig Scott is an inspiration is an understatement

We have hosted many speakers throughout the years to speak on an array of topics including addiction, drug use, compassion, and wellness, but none of them were as dynamic or as captivating as Craig. His presentation to our student body was expertly crafted and had students constantly engaged …captivating moments where you could hear the drop of a pin as every single student was on the edge of their seat hanging on Craig’s every word.

Craig’s message of kindness, compassion, and recognizing the value of human life is one that everyone from young children to adults can benefit. Many members in the audience throughout the day were moved to tears, both happy and sad. And many more walked out of our small auditorium changed and inspired. Since hosting Craig, the wellness committee has been approached by multiple community members, educators, and students with stories of how moved they were, how incredible Craig was to listen to, and how thankful they were to hear Craig’s message.

Julia Warner & Jen Carlino Jmwarner@leepublischools.net & jmcarlino@leepublicschools.net Lee Public Schools Wellness Committee 300 Greylock Street, Lee MA

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I've never seen high school students sit so still and be so focused on a speaker's message. My son was in the audience and was so moved I decided to volunteer with the club. Students brought up the question, 'Why is it that we don't seem to focus on the positive?' I thought it was amazing that they would internalize that message and bring it to class - and it was not just one student, the class went on to have a discussion about it.”

Ms. Carrie B., Long Beach High School Teacher

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Elementary School for Children with Dyslexia

"I was a little worried at first, but his message was all about how to grow in kindness and compassion. The kids were so excited to create ripple effects of kindness, so much so it has changed our school for the better!”

Traci Barrientos, Lighthouse Academy for Dyslexia (Grades 1st - 5th)

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COMMUNITY LEADERS

Office of the Chief Administrative Officer, Gulfport, MS

Dear Educators, Administrators, Counselors and Supporters,

Violence in our schools is at an all-time high across our country. Our children and educators are at risk each day, and it is critical that we do whatever we possibly can to protect our greatest assets- our children. I was approached by Romy Hall, a concerned Gulfport resident, about a program initially called "Rachel's Challenge" that was created by Columbine survivor, Craig Scott. Mr. Scott was one of the fortunate students to have survived the mass shooting, but unfortunately, his sister was one of the first killed that day in April 1999. Following the horrific acts at Columbine High School, he set out to start a "chain reaction of kindness and compassion." The live, interactive program, now called Craig Scott Events, serves as a school safety roundtable, and has reached over 26 million students since its inception.

Craig Scott Events provides diverse educational opportunities focused on critical issues related to mental health, physical health, safety, and other challenges that grade school aged students face on a regular basis.

Leonard Papania, Chief Administrative Officer__

Gulfport Behavioral Health System

“Gulfport Behavioral Health System sees the impact of bullying and mental trauma every day. While it stretches across all ages and socioeconomic layers of our society, until something is done, a ripple is started, we cannot begin to reverse the problems in our society. This is why when Craig Scott’s presentation was put before us, we looked at it openly and intently.

We were told by different factions that Columbine was “old” news and was a different school than those on the Mississippi Coast.

…Find the means, find a way to bring Craig Scott into your schools and community. Do not just do it for a speaker, what Craig holds is far greater and more powerful than a talk and fun event. Use what he relays then what he leaves behind to make a difference. Yes, it may be some extra work but not work in vain. A positive ripple of acceptance and caring can be started. Then a wave of Hope will follow, change will happen.“

Stephen H East, Gulfport Behavioral Health System

Mental Health Association of South MS

“Dear School Counselor/Educator

Thank you for facilitating the Craig Scott presentation at your school. I know this will plant seeds of aspiration and inspiration for students and faculty alike.

The Mental Health Association of South MS is available to provide some follow-up services/resources as your school works toward their goals toward resilience and kindness in the school environment.

In response to the presence of stress and mental illness, MHA provides resources and support services for those seeking mental wellness and recovery within our community.

MHA provides information about free evidence-based wellness/recovery education topics for adults and adolescents, including mental health crisis prevention and self-care for people who are struggling with a mental health, substance use, or emotional condition. We also have a free and confidential mental health screening tool on our website at msmentalhealth.org/programs/mental-health-screenings.”

Melody A Worsham, CPSS

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LAW ENFORCEMENT

Lee Police Department, MA

Dear Mr. Scott,

I was invited to Craig Scott’s presentation at Lee High School by our Wellness Committee, who in the past has brought several speakers to our student body.

These presenters covered topics from drug addiction to drunken driving consequences.

I have attended all presentations and you by far have had the most profound impact on me and feel on our student body. In the day and age of disconnection from each other and oneself, due to daily distractions such as social media, electronics, and news media, yours is a message of reconnection and caring. As a survivor of the Columbine tragedy… in 1999 in which you lost your sister Rachel, and several close friends, some right before your eyes, you have a unique perspective that cannot be dismissed. Refreshing was your delivery in which everyone in the room was involved and had contact with their fellow students and staff.

When I became Police Chief, I discovered the values that you speak about in taking time to listen to everyone’s story and not be so quick to judge, the luxury not always available to the Officer on patrol or in people’s quick day-to-day encounters. Your message of self-worth and the worth of everyone around you that, at times you may have to look for, was delivered loud and clear.

Jeffrey D. Roosa, Chief of Police, Lee Police Department, Massachusetts

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Sheriff’s Department

As a law enforcement officer for over 25 years, violence and crime amongst our youth has always been at the forefront of our hearts and minds.

As mentors and educators, we should always go above and beyond to ensure that our youth have the values that they need to be kind and compassionate individuals…

Having heard countless motivational speakers throughout the years, I must say Mr. Scott is by far one on the best.

Craig’s message of hope and a person’s ability to change the world and make it better, was impactful to anyone that was listening. I would personally recommend this program to any school with the ability to host it.

Captain Matt Haley, Harrison County Sheriff’s Office

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Resource Officer

Moss Point School District officer Kenny Dunn said this presentation could help stop a horrible situation before it starts. “I thought the message that he brought them today, allowed them to have that comfort to be able to share their own stories with him and reach the level of being comfortable to share them with us in the event that they have any issues or things going on within them." by WLOX

There is extensive support for the effectiveness of SEL programs in promoting resilience, preventing violence, and fostering responsible citizenship among students.

Here are a few reputable sources and organizations that support Social Emotional Learning (SEL) programs:

U.S. Department of Education: The Department of Education recognizes the importance of SEL in creating safe and supportive school climates. They provide guidance and resources for educators and administrators to implement SEL initiatives effectively. You can find information on their website about the role of SEL in preventing violence and promoting positive social behaviors in schools: U.S. Department of Education.

CASEL (Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning): CASEL is one of the leading organizations promoting SEL in schools. They provide research, resources, and guidelines for implementing effective SEL programs. Their work is widely recognized and supported by educators, researchers, and policymakers. You can find information supporting the role of SEL in promoting resilience and preventing violence on their website: CASEL

American Psychological Association (APA): The APA emphasizes the importance of SEL in addressing the underlying causes of violence and promoting positive social behaviors among students. Their research and publications often highlight the benefits of SEL in creating safe and supportive learning environments. You can explore their resources related to SEL and violence prevention on their website: APA.

National Association of School Psychologists (NASP): NASP advocates for the implementation of SEL programs in schools to support students' social and emotional development. They provide evidence-based strategies for addressing aggression, promoting prosocial behaviors, and fostering resilience. You can access their resources and position statements on SEL and violence prevention on their website: NASP.

School programs aim to influence every aspect of students' social environment, fostering respectful communication to help prevent aggression and violence.

The goal is not a one-time emotional assembly but a lasting impact on the culture of your school that will extend into your community!

For elementary students, kind acts will be the focus as they create paper link chains, inspiring a sense of pride in fostering a positive environment.

Middle and high school students achieve lasting impact through the establishment of student-led clubs established with Craig during his professional student leadership training hour. This training empowers students to take ownership of their environment and engage in projects that enhance school unity. It's an opportunity to harness the leadership potential in all students, including those who may be perceived as rowdy, and channel their energy into positive, compassionate, respectful, and kind acts. Through these efforts, students celebrate their shared experiences and learn to embrace the differences that make each individual unique.

After Craig leaves, students will continue to meet to collaborate on projects aimed at enhancing the school culture.

Today, there are hundreds of these clubs making a difference in schools nationwide, creating ripple effects of kindness and compassion and changing the world!

An opportunity to learn how to discuss serious issues with compassion and respect.

A powerful investment, fostering positive behavioral changes with a lasting impact on society.

“I really feel this is something I will use for life. Knowing how to conduct myself and have positive interactions with people I work with will be one of the most important things I can learn.” Charci C., Gulfport High School.

Key Topics Covered in 20 Sessions on Becoming Emotionally Resilient and Strategies for Mental Health Wellness curriculum:

1. Respect: How Are We Doing?

2. Active Listening: Can You Hear Me Now

3. Empathy: Reading the Signals

4. Stereotyping: How to Lose Friends and Catalog People

5. Gossip: When Words Hurt

6. Our Culture: Creating a Culture of Kindness

7. Loneliness: Choosing to Connect

8. Failure: How Do We Deal with It?

9.Forgiveness: What Is It Good For?

10. Healthy Confrontation: Speaking the Truth with Care

11. Helping People: Finding Meaning Through Service

12. Breaking Free: You Are Not Your Past

13.Anger Management: Controlling Anger before it Controls You

14. Personal Ethics: Calling Them Like You See Them

15. Antisocial Media: Controlling My Sources

16. Emotional Resilience: Staying Healthy When Life Happens

17. Endurance: Some Things Just Have to Be Endured

18. Escape Room: Avoiding the Pit of Escapism

19. Down the Road: The Value of Long-Term Thinking

20. Value Up: Raising the Value of Human Life

Grades K - 12

Empowering Students: Teaching Life Lessons with an opportunity to develop emotional resilience, discover their true worth, and improve academically and personally.

Important topics covered during presentation:

Peer Pressure: Creating a ripple effect of kindness to combat peer pressure, depression, anxiety, and promote a positive school culture.

Anger: Harnessing anger towards achieving goals and cultivating determination.

Anxiety: Turning anxiety into excitement and positive energy.

Cyber Bullying: Navigating the digital world with a focus on kindness, compassion, and the impact of words.

Disconnection / Loneliness: Strategies for connecting, reaching out, and seeking help.

Forgiveness: The liberating power of self-forgiveness and forgiving others. The importance of choosing positive influences.

Eliminating Prejudice: Emphasizing unity, acknowledging differences, and focusing on the best in others rather than division.

Social Media: The significance of discretion and responsible posting on social platforms.

Suicide and Self Harm: (Without discussing the subject directly.) By recognizing and nurturing one's intrinsic value and offering constructive alternatives to self-destructive behaviors, we can effectively deter the inclination towards self-harm and suicide without directly addressing the subject.

Substance Abuse: Recognizing the dangers of escaping through substances and finding healthier outlets.

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ONE HOUR TRAINING

Educators learn how to reach the heart and apply techniques to teach the most challenging child.

Training based on 'Awaken the Learner' by Craig's father, Darrell Scott, and education researcher Dr. Marzano. This training reinforces messages of resilience, both for students and among staff.

Harness the leadership potential in all students, including those who may be perceived as rowdy.

Students take ownership of their environment and engage in projects that enhance school unity and create peer to peer support through student-led clubs thet are stablished with Craig.

Channel their energy into positive, compassionate, respectful, and kind acts. Through these efforts, students celebrate their shared experiences and learn to embrace the differences that make each individual unique.

Students will continue to meet to collaborate on projects aimed at enhancing the school culture such as:
Friendship Table, High Five Hallway Time, Positive Notes All Over, Chalk Art - Positivity Only, Friends Share - Food and Clothes Closet

Today, there are hundreds of these clubs making a difference in schools nationwide, creating ripple effects of kindness and compassion and changing the world!

Teaching life skills and lessons on how to become emotionally resilient.

Sharing proven ways that we can turn paln into purpose. Students can learn ways to find the good in any circumstance, neurologically transform negative emotions into positive ones, let go of the past, not worry about the future, and embrace the power of living in the present moment.

Student:

“I think it’s really important that we focus on mental health now because it’s just a major issue. So many people go through it and I believe that as high school students, we need to know that there are other people going through the same thing. When he came it just showed us so much about our mental health and… and how we affect other people.” WLOX

Allie Anglin, Hancock High School

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“That morning in the auditorium was magical. Mr. Craig Scott provided (us) with a powerful message that resonated with all who were listening. Emotional Resilience was the name of his presentation.”

-BL Harewood,

High School Student, Moss Point High School Student Newspaper

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Administrator:

"In one day, this program did more for the social/emotional and mental health of our learning community than any other program I have seen."

- Sharon Smith,

Director of Student Services, Lyndonville School District

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Craig Scott does not simply note the symptoms of the undesirable behaviors we battle in our schools and communities. It also provides a systematic approach on how to make the necessary changes. This program is a road map to positive change.”

-Matt Dunning, Principal of Rawlings County HS

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City Leadership

‘Violence in our schools is at an all-time high across our country. Our children and educators are at risk each day, and it is critical that we do whatever we possibly can to protect our greatest assets- our children… After researching the programs and live roundtable Outcomes, I am supportive of the Effort to bring this program to our coastal school districts and I hope you will be as well.

Leonard Papania

Chief Administrative Officer, Gulfport, MS

______________________________

Mental Health Community:

“Gulfport Behavioral Health System sees the impact of bullying and mental trauma every day. While it stretches across all ages and socio-economic layers of our society, until something is done, a ripple is started, we cannot begin to reverse the problems in our society… Do not just do it for a speaker, what Craig holds is far greater and more powerful than a talk and fun event. A positive ripple of acceptance and caring can be started. Then a wave of Hope will follow, and change will happen.”

- Stephen East,

Director of Business Development, Gulfport Behavioral Health System

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…I found myself using the message over and over again when dealing with conflict, bullying, and the problems that plague our teenagers in the coming school year. It’s a pretty amazing thing to see a young person reflect on a message delivered in an assembly, that took place months earlier, and adjust their behavior based on that message!

-Missy Chvatal, School Counselor, Saunders Catholic School

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Law Enforcement:

“We are a better and now safer school and community for having you here today.”

-Jeffrey D. Roosa,

Chief of Police, Lee Police Department, MA