Stand Up to Bullying

How students can help create a safer school for everyone 

By Landri Licari, Mila Miller, and Ayzah Aiman

Have you ever been bullied, or have you seen someone else get hurt by mean words or actions? Sadly, bullying is a problem in many schools, including ours. Bullying can happen in different ways, such as physically, emotionally, socially, or online. No one deserves to feel unsafe or unwelcome.

Bullying can cause real harm. Hurtful words and actions can make people feel sad, scared, or alone. Sometimes, students may even start to believe the negative things others say about them. That is why it is so important for everyone to work together to stop bullying.

 Mrs. Johnson and Mrs. Horvat visited each classroom and talked with students about bullying and its consequences. These conversations remind us that bullying is serious and that everyone has a role in making school a kind and respectful place.

One way to help stop bullying is to be an upstander instead of a bystander. An upstander is someone who steps in when they see bullying. For example, you can support the person being bullied, tell the bully to stop in a safe way, or report the situation to a trusted adult.

Another important step is knowing when to ask for help. Ask yourself these questions: Is it happening on purpose? Is it happening over and over again? Is someone being hurt physically or emotionally? If the answer is yes, tell a trusted adult right away.

Bullying can also happen online. This is called cyberbullying. Cyberbullying includes sending mean messages, making fun of someone in group chats, posting hurtful comments, or teasing someone about their insecurities. Even though it happens on a screen, it can still cause real pain.

Bullying can happen in person, too. For example, some students may trip others on purpose, push people, or start fights. These actions are never okay and should be reported immediately.

In conclusion, bullying is a serious problem, but students can help make a difference. Choose kindness, speak up, and be an upstander. If everyone does their part, our school can be a place where every student feels safe, welcome, and proud to be themselves.