To students at A.D. Oliver Middle School, Fridays have become more than just the start of the weekend. On the last Friday of every month, students are incorporating the themes of character education and respect into their daily activities. Last month, the school had No Criticism Day during which both students and staff made an extra effort not to find fault with one another. This month, students will be encouraged to do something to improve their school or community during Make A Difference Day. Asset Day and Diversity Day are scheduled for later in the year.

The activities are this year's focus of the school's Student Assistance Program, a team comprised of teachers, counselors, administrators, the school psychologist and the district's Youth Asset Coordinator Shannon Zielinski to help students become more successful. On the last Friday of the month, the entire staff wears special "respect" t-shirts as a symbol of respect for students and other staff. Ninth-grader Melissa Flynn designed the logo, which is also being used on a banner and flag for the school. The Parent-Teacher-Student Association will be selling T-shirts with the logo to students as well.