Getting Started Checklist for Spread the Word to End the Word Campaigns

The Spread the Word to End the Word Campaign raises awareness about the dehumanizing and hurtful effects of the word “retard(ed)” and encourages people to pledge to stop using the R-word. Activities vary from school to school, but are sometimes planned to coincide with the Spread the Word annual day of awareness (held yearly the first Wednesday in March). 

___1. Schedule a meeting with the Unified Champion School Leadership Team (Liaisons, coaches,

youth leaders) to discuss holding an R-Word Campaign in your school. Develop a timeline for

recruiting, organizing and preparing for the campaign.

___2. The Unified Club should take the lead to organize activities to raise awareness about the

effects of using the R-word.

___5. Develop a plan. Schedule the campaign activities. 

• Create a plan for each task, including deadlines and a list of who is responsible for carrying out each step. • Make sure the scheduled activities are approved by necessary school personnel before releasing the information to others. • Hold a meeting with everyone who will be working a pledge station and provide them with talking points and discussion topics.

___6. Order supplies through Ampro

(website to be sent to you by SOPA)

___7. Publicize and hold the event!

___8. Fill out a Whole School Engagement report while the event is still fresh in your mind.

___3. Meet with the principal or other administrative support to discuss plans for the campaign and ensure administrative support and approval. ___4. Decide what activities the campaign will include, such as: