“Stand Up to Bullying Day” on May 4 and Every Day

Bullying is unfortunately a growing concern for many schools, parents and students. Children who are taunted and harassed are more likely to fall behind in their studies, become sick and/or depressed, miss school or even drop out. The most frightening result of bullying is what’s become known as “bullycide,” where individuals commit suicide to escape the torment. A new movie, “Bully,” has people talking about this issue and May 4 has been declared as “Stand Up to Bullying Day.” Students and teachers can sign up to participate at stand4change.org.

Studies have shown that having one caring adult to turn to can make all the difference to a child who is being bullied. It is imperative that students know who they can turn to at school or in their community for a listening ear and a helping hand.

In line with this, the National Education Association (NEA) has created its Bully Free: It Starts With Me Campaign to help identify adults willing to stand up and support students. In return, NEA will supply them with the resources they need to provide solace and aid, ask the right questions, and take the appropriate actions needed to stop the bullying. The greater hope is that beyond an immediate resource for students, this program will become part of a larger effort to bully-proof our schools.

The end to bullying starts with one caring adult and stops with all of us creating a safe learning environment and supportive communities for our students. For more information on bullying and what can be done to stop and prevent it, visit NEA’s Bully Free: It Starts With Me Campaign.

For more information related to education issues in Bucks and Montgomery counties, visit the CAPS website and sign up as a Friend of Public Education to receive an occasional newsletter.