The Mercer Island School District began a month-long campaign this month to “Stomp Out Bullying.”
Islander Middle School kicked off a series of events and lessons designed to empower students to take a stand against bullying, intimidation, harassment and discrimination.
October is a month about standing up for others. It has been designated National Bullying Prevention Month and National Disability Awareness month.
Recently, a sea of Islander Middle School students and families wearing blue, “walked, rocked and rolled” around the track at the school to unite against bullying and celebrate diversity.
Over the coming weeks, students, staff and the community will learn about how to celebrate and defend those with differences, district officials said. They will learn about the devastating effects of bullying on others. They will learn strategies on how to stand up against bullying behavior.
The month will culminate in a “Mix it Up” day at the school where students will be encouraged to get to know someone new and participate in ways to celebrate diversity.
Each week of October was given a theme.Week 1: “Stomp Out Bullying”
• Oct. 8; “Blue Thursday” and the “Walk, Rock and Roll Against Bullying” morning walk.
Week 2: “Stand up for Others”
• Monday, Oct. 12; Students viewed a video about being an “Upstander.”
• Wednesday, Oct. 14; Creative activities focused on awareness and stopping bullying.
Week 3: “Celebrating You, Me and We”
• Monday Oct .19; Kickoff for poster contest. Students watched a video entitled, “I, You, We,” during 1st period.
• Wednesday, Oct. 21; Teaching Tolerance lesson is planned in celebration of “Who We Are.”
Week 4: “Get to Know Someone New”
• Tuesday, Oct. 27; is “Mix it up day”
• Wednesday, Oct. 28; Wrapping up the month with discussions and activities.Every school has a plan to address these topics. More information is available by contacting school principals.
