Ellington Public Schools

The Ellington Public Schools and the Town of Ellington encourage all community members to engage in civil, thoughtful discussion—especially when conversations become challenging. The Seeds of Civility initiative highlights the importance of respecting each person’s identity, needs, and beliefs while participating in community dialogue.

To foster a fair exchange of ideas, the district promotes seven guiding practices:

• Listen, observe, and reflect before responding.

• Assume good intentions in others’ viewpoints.

• Allow for emotional reactions and respond with understanding.

• Speak one’s truth respectfully, even during disagreement.

• Engage face-to-face rather than through social media.

• Find similarities and value differences among all people.

• Debate the issue but respect the person, avoiding personal criticism.

These principles encourage a healthier, more collaborative community and support Ellington’s commitment to meaningful, respectful communication.