Today marks the end of Bullying Prevention Month, and over the last four weeks, our schools have participated in a variety of activities and lessons about the importance of being kind, the negative impacts of bullying, and what students should do if they personally experience it or see others being bullied.

Last week, our 6th - 9th grade students heard from a national speaker, Fabian Ramirez. As stated on his website, the purpose of his presentation is as follows:

"Fabian was picked on in middle school so he is passionate about helping eliminate school bullying on campuses nationwide. His speech uses humor and a skit which he recreates being picked on in school. Students will leave the school assembly encouraged and empowered.

Learning Outcomes:

• Students will learn how to respond to bullies
• Empowering students to not be victims of bullying
• Building Resilience will help students through tough times
• Cyberbullying has the same effect on the brain as physical bullying
• Internet Safety starts with students
• Love has the power to transform an enemy into a friend
• Hurt people, hurt people."

During the presentation, there were moments of both laughter and seriousness as he spoke about his personal life experiences and shared a message of the importance of how to treat others and have a positive impact on their lives, as well as the need to speak to someone about issues you are having.

The process of bringing in a speaker was done by our district's Bullying Prevention Committee, which is made up of parents and staff members. There are current openings for parents interested in being on this committee. Please contact Luke Lee for more information at LeeL@TurnerUSD202.org.

Bullying concerns can be reported on our district's bullying prevention webpage: https://www.turnerusd202.org/bullying