Local schools break down barriers for "Mix it up for Lunch" day

Reported by: Bethany Tucker

Thousands of schools are taking part in a program aimed at breaking down barriers on campuses nationwide.

A group called Teaching Tolerance is holding "Mix It Up At Lunch" day Tuesday. Organizers say their idea is simple: students are asked to sit with someone new at the school cafeteria, just for one day. They hope kids will learn the value of getting along with people of different backgrounds.

One participating teacher from Blanchard Middle School in Massachusetts says, "I think it gives kids a better understanding of not only how to treat others, but who they are as people. They get a deeper understanding of themselves."

Three Central Coast schools have signed up to participate in "Mix It Up At Lunch" day; Righetti High School in Santa Maria and La Colina Junior High School and Roosevelt School in Santa Barbara.

MORE FROM KSBY-TV

KSBY-TV Section Front

Chilly temps have homeless looking for a place to stay County considers smoking ban at parks and beaches Santa Barbara County moves closer to regulating medical marijuana dispensaries Local farmers brace for freezing weather Santa Maria man succumbs to injuries after weekend accident KSBY-TV Section Front   Add KSBY-TV headlines to your news reader: