Main Street School in Irvington received the Seal of Excellence Award from the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s Welcoming Schools program, becoming the first school in New York State to earn this recognition. The recognition reflects MSS’s ongoing commitment to creating a school community where every child feels seen, valued, supported and a true sense of belonging.
The milestone was celebrated during a schoolwide assembly on May 29, where the school welcomed Ellen Kahn, senior director of programs and partnerships for HRC’s Welcoming Schools. The students and staff shared how Welcoming Schools has enriched the MSS experience by promoting empathy, inclusion, respect and belonging for all.
“Their reflections highlighted the meaningful connections between Welcoming Schools and The Irvington Way, as we continued to build a community grounded in kindness, understanding and care for one another, one where we accept, honor and celebrate our many identities,” Principal Joyce Chapnick said.
The Welcoming Schools Seal of Excellence program recognizes exemplary schools across the country that demonstrate a deep commitment to creating safe, affirming and inclusive learning environments for every student. Grounded in the evidence-based and nationally recognized Welcoming Schools approach, the Seal of Excellence represents the highest standard of school climate and culture, where all students, families and staff are welcomed, valued and supported.
Schools earning this distinction actively foster a sense of belonging across the many identities that make up their communities, including race, ethnicity, culture, religion, country of origin, language, ability, family structure, gender and sexual orientation. The program also honors schools that intentionally cultivate respect, understanding and empathy, while proactively addressing bias, discrimination and bullying in all its forms.
Main Street School’s journey to earning the Seal of Excellence spanned multiple years and included ongoing consultation and collaboration with Welcoming Schools staff.
“We are incredibly grateful to our entire school community for helping make this achievement possible,” Chapnick said. “Most importantly, we thank our students whose voices, leadership, empathy and commitment to creating an inclusive community were at the heart of this recognition. Together, we have created a school where every child knows they belong.”
Special thanks to the Irvington PTSA for its generous support and funding of this important work.
