Respect week is a week celebrated in schools across the state of New Jersey supporting respect for oneself and others. This week not only follows the theme of respect but of kindness as well with the ultimate goal of diminishing bullying schoolwide. Respect week occurs on the first Monday of October each year but the effects of respect should last over the entirety of the year. 

Respect is defined as “to have a very good opinion of someone or something; to admire someone or something” but this definition has been twisted and redefined over the years. To me, it means treating everyone around me in a kind manner. A few students from NAHS who chose to stay anonymous noted that respect means, “accepting everyone even when they are different from you” and “treating everybody the way that you want to be treated.” No matter your definition of respect, remember to show it to everyone around you all year long!

The following are some favorite quotes and original definitions about the meaning of respect from some of our administrators and faculty: 

“Respect at NAHS begins with respecting yourselves. Getting to school on time, giving your maximum effort both in the classroom and in your extracurriculars, and staying away from negative influences are all signs that you respect yourself. This is a prerequisite for treating others with respect and being successful!” By Mr. Patrick Bott, Principal of NAHS

“Respect does not have to be a grand gesture, respect can be as simple as showing others common courtesy every day. ” By Mrs. Tomko

“Respect is the most valuable thing you can give someone but it doesn’t cost anything. Be kind to one another.” By Mrs. Ingannamorte

“Respect is the one simple, precious gift that NAHS students can constantly give to all human beings around them.” By Mrs. Albuquerque

“Respect is what follows naturally when we listen to each other with an open mind, recognizing the humanity of each ahead of self-centered interests which are a result of conditioning.” By Mr. McCarthy

“If we lose love and self-respect for each other, this is how we finally die.” From Mrs. Hughes – Quote by Maya Angelou

“Amor Vincit Omnia.” Latin for, “Love Conquers All.” From Mrs. Paolina Turano – Quote by Virgil

“When you practice gratitude, there is a sense of respect toward others.” From Ms. Landes- Quote by Dalai Lama 

Poem – From Mrs. Salbashian – By Don Wilson

Respect is a lesson that everyone should learn

Respect must be given before an expected return

Respect is something that’s given for free

Respect is about us and never about me

Respect is the basis on which relationships are founded

Respect is the anchor that keeps a person well grounded

Respect builds the character and defines who we are

Respect sets the standard and raises the bar

Respect is magnanimous and helps to fulfill

Respect is the partner that sits with good will

Respect is like honey so sweet it’s perceived

Respect a taste to savor for when it’s received