As a culture, we are giving more attention to childhood bullying and harassment. Bullying includes a wide variety of behaviors, but all involve a person or a group repeatedly trying to harm someone who is weaker or more vulnerable. Bullying can focus on direct or indirect attacks. Examples of direct attacks are hitting, threatening, teasing, name-calling, making sexual remarks, and stealing or damaging belongings. Examples of indirect attacks are spreading rumors, exclusion, or rejection. Both direct and indirect attacks affect a child's performance in school, and can make a student feel tense, anxious, or afraid.
Bethel Springs Elementary School faculty members recently presented a skit on tactics to eliminate bullying. Faculty members included in the skit were Brenda Armstrong, Wanda Crabb, Linda Dennie, Cynthia Droke, Roxanne Gray, Jane Jines, JD Matlock, and Reba Wilson. The play was in keeping with the Olweus program, emphasizing the decrease in popularity of two bullies (played by Cynthia Droke and Roxanne Gray) and the support of the victim (played by Linda Dennie). The play was first introduced to parents, students, and community members at the semiannual Family Fun Night held on October 24th, which consisted of introduction of the bullying program and an evening meal catered from Atzimba's. The play was again performed for the entire student body on October 25th during a morning assembly.
Safety in our schools has become a major concern for administrators, teachers, parents, and students. Bullying is the most prevalent form of violence in our schools today and is usually a warning sign that a child is at isk for serious violence, vandalism, shoplifting, and drug use. Bethel Springs Elementary School is intolerant of all forms of bullying. By equipping students with the essential knowledge, skills, attitudes, and specific strategies to counteract bullying, our schools will provide a safe and caring environment. |
