On May 4th, I was able to visit a couple of schools in Kilgore, TX. I spoke to over 300 third graders at Chandler Elementary.
One thing I learned from that experience is that students know what bullying is and how it makes others feel.
Students in elementary schools really care about others. I can see it on their faces. They hurt for their classmates when I talk about being bullied at school. Some students wanted to be by my side after my presentation. Some students even gave me a hug and didn’t even say a word. I felt like it was them saying, thanks for coming to our school and caring about us.
When I walked into Kilgore Intermediate School, the hallway had a sign hanging that said, “Don’t be a bullydog”. I had to take a picture next to it because it was creative and it’s a constant reminder for students. The school has a process in place where they handle bullying situations in house. The school makes kids face each other and tell each other how the bullying behavior makes them feel.
I’m glad I was able to speak to this age group because this is their last year for some to attend grade school. Next they will have to dodge middle school bullying which is one of the hardest times in my life. For some this is the worst time for bullying that they will have to endure. That’s why it’s important for schools to raise awareness of bullying.
Bullying is abuse and the more we speak on the subject, the more aware students and parents will be on the subject. Many feel along when they are bullied and I feel my job is to let them know that I’m going to stand up for them wherever I can.
I feel that I can be a voice for students who are not willing to stand up for themselves. I know what it feels like to be bullied and I don’t want others to feel the pain that I felt. I applaud Kilgore for being proactive in the way they handle bullying behavior.
Texas bullying laws protect students and give parents a way out.
