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Bullying Prevention and Awareness Week in Upper Grand schools

MEDIA RELEASE

For Immediate Release
November 18, 2013

GUELPH, Ontario — Students across the district are wearing wristbands, creating and hanging posters, learning about the board’s “Report Bullying” tool, hearing entertaining speakers and donning pink as they stand up against bullying during Ontario’s Bullying Prevention and Awareness Week, November 17-23.

“Bullying is no longer just about physical fights”, said Mark Bailey, Chair of the Board.

“By raising awareness that bullying can take many forms, and that it’s about equity and inclusion, goes a long way to making schools safe and caring places for everyone.”

Schools were given the opportunity to apply for up to $500 in funding in support of activities and supplies for this week. Applications came in for guest speakers, specialized programs such as Beyond the Hurt, a Red Cross program, books and key chains. These are just some of the granted applications. The board purchased pink wristbands promoting the new online Report Bullying tool (www.ugdsb.ca/reportbullying) for all students and staff. 

A down-to-earth and thought-provoking message that includes humour and real life examples will be delivered by Candy Palmater at GCVI, Centennial and John F. Ross on November 21 and 22. Westside SS (Orangeville), Centre Dufferin DHS and College Heights SS students had a presentation from Candy last week. 

County and Western singer/songwriter Ryan Laird is also bringing his message to some elementary schools. 

School announcements, assemblies and random acts of kindness are only part of bullying prevention and awareness week activities. Parents are also involved. Resources are available to them, and many are acting as advisors to groups of students who are taking leadership roles in ongoing school activities.

“This week is one part of all our initiatives to build character and help students be good citizens”, Bailey said. 

“By accepting another’s point of view and being conscious of what you say and do is an important lesson that can’t be understated, during Bullying Prevention Week and every week.”

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For more information: 

Maggie McFadzen, Communications Officer
519-822-4420 ext.725
[email protected]  

Mark Weidmark, Administrative Officer – Communications
519-822-4420 ext.544
[email protected]
 

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