Walter Panas High School

DASA - Dignity for All Students Act


The goal of the Dignity Act is to create a safe and supportive school climate where students can learn and focus, rather than fear being discriminated against and/or verbally and/or physically harassed. All public elementary and secondary school students have the right to attend school in a safe, welcoming, considerate, and caring environment.

New York State Education Department Office of Curriculum, Instruction and Field Services Student Support Services

Every person has a right to his or her own beliefs. Regardless of those beliefs, educators have an obligation to ensure that all students in our schools feel safe, both physically and emotionally.

How we respond to messages of hate and bigotry is critical. If we condemn or alienate someone, we may lose that person entirely; but if we don’t respond, especially with a mind to thoughtfully educate, we silently encourage those messages.

“Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It's not.” Dr. Seuss

Dignity for All Students Act Reporting Form

Walter Panas High School Building Dignity Act Coordinator
Samantha Sherwood, Assistant Principal 914-739-2823  ext 39214  ssherwood@lakelandschools.org

Lakeland Central School District Dignity Act Coordinator 
Mel Rafferty, Supervisor for Alternative Programs - mrafferty@lakelandschools.org