As part of its ongoing and innovative efforts to promote diversity and combat bullying, Black Hawk Middle School took it to another level this year.

When Principal Lisa Pirrung arrived at the school three years ago, students were already immersed in the tradition of a “Turkey Trot,” held annually on the Tuesday prior to Thanksgiving.

Students would walk the cross-country trails around campus in a celebration of togetherness and gratitude toward one another.

While the walk itself is successful and promotes temporary harmony, the school continues to face the universal struggle of mistreatment among its students.

While not all instances might be classified as bullying, Pirrung says there is a general lack of respect among the middle school aged population.

“This year we realized that students were using some disrespectful and derogatory language,” said Pirrung. “We wanted to educate our students on the importance of being tolerant of others and their differences. We realize that maybe sometimes the behavior comes from a lack of knowledge and being acceptive of other people.”

So Pirrung and her staff set out on a mission to not only inform the student body, but empower them through the Wonder Project. The initiative led to a day of unity, anchored by a trip to the movie.

On Nov. 21, school buses filled the parking lot of the Warrenton Cinema, as nearly the entire student body came together to watch “Wonder,” a film about a fifth-grade student with facial differences who inspires those he encounters.

“We offered the opportunity for everyone to attend and had just at 700 people who went to the movie that day,” said Pirrung. “We took in enough donations from the community that any student who couldn’t afford it still went to the movies.”

Students returned to the school following the movie, held a follow-up discussion about what they had learned and then went outside for the Turkey Trot.

“Some kids came to the understanding that while they’re not using inappropriate language to harass others, it can still be hurtful and they need to be aware of their behaviors, no matter what their intentions,” said Pirrung.

The day finished with an assembly by Matthew Stout and the Iron Renegades, who performed a strong man routine and discussed the importance of using our power for good purposes.

“It was a day for kids to realize that it’s not about who we are on the outside but instead who we are on the inside,” said Pirrung.