Mix It Up at Lunch is a theme in itself. Many schools find that idea enough of a hook to carry off the day, as well as follow-up events after the day.
But some schools take it farther – or higher, as the case may be.
Here are two examples, from middle schools in Pennsylvania and Colorado. (These can easily be adapted for elementary and high schools, as well.)
Lifesavers
Playing on the name of the popular candy, Life Savers, a Pennsylvania middle school used “lifesavers” as its theme.
The idea is that every student has someone who was his or her lifesaver, someone who helped them when they were in a situation where they felt bullied, ostracized or somehow negatively targeted.
Giant-sized lifesaver posters were designed by students as classroom projects. These were posted around the school – and can be used to promote the actual Mix It Up at Lunch Day event.
At Mix It Up at Lunch Day, students were given actual Life Savers, which they were encouraged to give to their chosen lifesaver with a card of thanks.
As one of the organizers told us: “It impacted a lot of people (teachers, parents and other students) when they saw their names and were recognized as ‘lifesavers.’ It brought a deeper sense of community.”
It also allows for follow-up activities tied to the idea of speaking up against bullies and being allies to those who are bullied.
Be the Change
A Colorado middle school built its theme around Kat Edmondson’s video, “Be the Change.”
The school showed the video at the beginning of the Mix It Up at Lunch event. After lunch, students were invited to make their own signs, describing the change they want to see in their school, their community, their world. Then students were photographed for a future slide show.
As a follow-up activity, all students took part in a day of community service later in the year, showing just how students can be change agents in their community.
A powerful element of this school’s Mix It Up event was that it involved everyone – students, parents, cafeteria workers, teachers, administrators and community members. Seventh- and eighth-grade leadership students prepared materials and promoted the event.
And the signs all the students made after lunch? “They were displayed proudly around the building for as long as the tape would hold."
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