The Calais School has been working throughout October to raise awareness about bullying. Last week special guest Jim Jordan of www.reportbullying.com joined us all the way from Canada to talk about bullying.  His program opened this bullying awareness month with great enthusiasm and thoughtful discussion.

Using words to hurt someone, leaving someone out of a group, gossiping, and spreading rumors are just some ways that bullies try to make people feel small. Mr. Jordan emphasized to all students that bullies thrive when people let them get away with it—that if a student sees something and doesn’t say something about it, they are encouraging the bully to keep bullying. He emphasized how important it is to speak up.

Lower school students focused on identifying bullying. How is it different from conflict? How should we treat our friends, classmates, teachers, and family members? Mr. Jordan invited some guests from the audience to demonstrate how to be a good friend and how to include others when they are sitting alone.

Older students spoke more in-depth about bullying, as well as gossiping, exclusion, and harassment and how they affect our mental health.

As an extension of this program, Mrs. Vitaletti and the morning announcement crew included morning messages that reflect on the program’s anti-bullying message. The announcements also include a sentiment about respect followed by a positive affirmation.