Lower Merion High School has earned the Anti-Defamation League's (ADL) No Place for Hate designation for the 2023-24 academic year, an accolade that acknowledges schools dedicated to fostering safe and inclusive spaces. 

How do exemplary schools like Lower Merion go about earning this recognition? Interested institutions must follow the comprehensive, year-long application and implementation process as outlined by the ADL. Here are the steps involved:

• Sign Up: Schools must register for the No Place for Hate initiative with their regional ADL office.
• Formation of a Coalition: Schools create a No Place for Hate committee, typically composed of students, teachers, and parents, which oversees the program's activities and initiatives.
• Pledge: The school community is required to sign the No Place for Hate Pledge, committing to promoting respect and challenging bias and bullying.
• Needs Assessment and Action Plan: Schools conduct a needs assessment to identify specific issues related to bias, bullying, and diversity. Based on this assessment, the committee develops an action plan.
• Three or More Activities: Schools must implement at least three school-wide activities that promote respect for differences and challenge bias or bullying. These activities can include workshops, assemblies, curriculum lessons, or community events.
• Submission of Documentation: Schools document their activities and submit this documentation to the ADL for review. This typically includes descriptions of the activities, attendance records, and reflections on the outcomes and impacts.
• Evaluation and Feedback: The ADL evaluates the submitted documentation, provides feedback, and determines if the school has met the criteria for the No Place for Hate designation.

After successfully meeting all these requirements, Lower Merion was awarded yet another No Place for Hate designation and will receive a banner to display in their lobby, signifying the Aces’ commitment to creating a respectful and inclusive school environment!