Schools issue Rachel's challenge on bullying

In an effort to educate students, parents and the community on the subject of bullying, Crittenden County School District has organized a variety of events to teach students the importance of respecting their peers.

Parents and guardians of middle school students were recently asked to join students in taking a pledge on the Kentucky Safe Schools website on the subject of bullying.  School officials believe student behaviors can be modified if children see their parents or guardians actively participate and take a stand against bullying.

Middle School Guidance Counselor Robyn Taylor said parent involvement is vital to help reinforce the idea to respect one’s peers.

“I challenge them to take the pledge as well.  That way we’re all working together.  The schools can’t do it alone.  It takes a village.  And these kids need that,” Taylor said.

Taylor said the school works to build strong relationships with each student and believes good communication is the key to reducing instances of bullying.

“Dr. Yarbrough has sat down with our students in a circle on the gym floor and talked with them about bullying.  What bullying is and how to report bullying,” Taylor said.  “We’ve talked about bullying in so many different ways.  You have to build these relationships with the kids so they will come and talk to you about things.”

School officials also urge parents to become aware of cyber bullying.  Cyber bullying, or on-line harassment or threatening, can occur online via email, chat rooms or social networking sites.

To better inform parents, students and community members about the subject of bullying, the school district has planned a special anti-bullying program next week that will be held at each school and at Rocket Arena as a community event.

Rachel’s Challenge is a program that provides strategies that help both students and adults combat bullying.  The program is based on the writings of Rachel Scott, one of the first students killed at Columbine High School.  Rachel’s Challenge will be held Nov. 5 at the elementary and middle school and Nov. 7 at the high school.  A community event will also be held Nov. 7 at Rocket Arena at 6 p.m.  Parents and community members are encouraged to attend.

Holly White is the community educator for Crittenden County schools.  She said Rachel’s Challenge teaches compassion as a catalyst.  It uses the tragedy at Columbine High School to teach about making a difference in the lives of others by doing the little things that can start a chain reaction of kindness and compassion. The Rachel's Challenge team will challenge every person to eliminate prejudice and guard their influences by setting big goals for their life.

"It is important to expose our students and our community to proactive strategies to help us to be more compassionate and caring toward others. It takes everyone working together and doing little things to make this world a better place. I know that even as an adult, I may have a rough day and not be as nice and polite to people as I should be. I have to remind myself that every action has reactions and the little things can change a person's life," White said.