WAYNESBORO, Miss. — Students across Wayne County came together on Wednesday to take a pledge against gun violence, promoting peace, respect, and understanding in schools.
At Waynesboro Riverview School, students from fifth to eighth grade signed the pledge, marking a strong show of unity and awareness among young learners.
Behavior specialist Pamela Packer said the initiative helps students learn emotional control and responsible behavior as they mature.
“By the time they reach fifth grade, we expect to see real maturity,” she explained. “We work hard to teach conflict resolution, cooperation, and emotional awareness so our kids can make positive choices.”
Students Leading by Example
Over the past week, students have been learning about alternatives to violence through classroom discussions and peer activities.
“It’s important because sometimes people fight and bring guns to school,” said sixth grader Azariyah Hall, one of six student ambassadors chosen to promote peace.
Packer said the ambassadors were selected for their leadership and ability to calm conflicts before they escalate.
Eighth-grader Aevah Blakney shared her perspective:
“You never know what someone is going through. Bullying can push people over the edge. It’s better to talk to them, walk with them, and calm them down.”
Spreading the Message
The same anti-violence pledge was also taken by students at Wayne Central School and Wayne County High School, spreading the message of empathy and unity across the district.
School leaders say the campaign is part of a broader effort to teach social-emotional learning, helping students practice kindness and resolve disputes peacefully.
