As part of the "STOMP Out Bullying," campaign this month, students in all grades are being urged to wear a blue shirt Monday, Oct. 5.
School officials said the entire month of October has been designated as National Bullying Prevention month. It is an effort to increase both awareness and the prevalence and impact of bullying on all children.According to federal programs administrator Rick Enis, there is a policy in place prohibiting any bullying during school activities or on school grounds.
He explained bullying is defined as harassment, intimidation or threatening behavior as well as physical or verbal assaults. The school policy includes using texts or on social media.
He said a national report indicated nearly one in three students have reported being bullied at some point during the school year. "This is something we will not tolerate and want any student who feels they are victims of bullying to report it immediately."
In addition to the Oct. 5 Blue Shirt Day, the school will also be encouraging students to spend the next three weeks helping to prevent bullying.
Enis said the week of Oct. 13 is set aside for students to make friends with someone they don't already know.
"We want the students to go to someone they don't know and introduce themselves. They can invite them to sit with them at lunch or join in an after school activity."
The following week starting Oct. 20, is set aside for people to stand up against bullies.
"If you see someone being bullied, stand up for them. Bullies have been known to back off when others stand up against them." Enis said if a student doesn't feel safe confronting a bully, they need to get help from a teacher or other adult immediately.
The last week in Oct. is set aside for students to write messages on post-its and give them to other students, or even do one act of kindness every day.
"The more awareness we create, the closer we come to putting an end to bullying."
For more information about the STOMP Out Bullying effort, go to the organization website.
