More than 2,700 students, teachers and administrators packed the gymnasium at Patchogue-Medford High School Monday to hear Dr. Samuel Betances' keynote speech on tolerance, respect and education.

Principal Michael Sanzone says Monday was the first of three days of special presentations, seminars and assemblies, which all address the concepts of diversity, tolerance, respect and sensitivity. Students and administrators alike felt the program was necessary after seven students from the school district were arrested and charged in connection with the stabbing death of Ecuadorian immigrant, Marcelo Lucero, as well as assaulting other immigrants.

Lucero's murder happened four months ago. Some students at Patchogue-Medford hope the public can turn their focus to the many good students at the school.

"There's a lot of good kids in this school and we need to focus on that rather than all the negativity that's been going around," Michael Dowd, a student, says.

Parents, local business owners and community members are invited to the school Tuesday night for presentations in the series.