Franklinville, NJ – On September 27, the Caroline L. Reutter School proudly hosted a school-wide assembly featuring renowned motivational speaker, actor, and business owner, Chris Hollyfield. The event was aimed at inspiring students to embrace respect for one another, regardless of individual differences, as part of a broader initiative to foster a culture of kindness and inclusivity within the school community.
Chris Hollyfield, who has captivated audiences across various platforms including ESPN, 60 Minutes, Dateline NBC, and Primetime Live, shared his compelling personal story with students. Known for his portrayal as "Little Boogeyman" on WWE Smack Down, Hollyfield has turned his experiences as a little person into a powerful message about resilience, respect, and the importance of overcoming bullying.
“The world may see me as undersized, but I have a huge heart and a powerful message,” said Hollyfield during the assembly. His engaging presentation resonated deeply with students, encouraging them to recognize that differences should be celebrated rather than teased. By sharing his triumphs and challenges, he inspired students to stand against bullying and support one another.
This assembly also serves as an early kickoff for the Annual Week of Respect, which will take place during the week of October 7. The event was graciously sponsored by the Municipal Alliance, demonstrating a strong community partnership dedicated to promoting positive character development among students.
Caroline L. Reutter School has earned recognition as an ADL No Place for Hate School and a National School of Character, affirming its commitment to character development and anti-bullying initiatives.
Principal Ted Peters commented, “We are incredibly grateful to Chris Hollyfield for sharing his inspiring story with our students. His message reinforces our commitment to fostering a culture of respect and understanding, and we believe it will have a lasting impact on our school community.”