In order to bring attention to an important subject, elementary schools have created special days this week.  Students will be enjoying Blue Out Days and asked to wear blue to show their support; H.E.R.O. Day (Help Everyone Respect Others) and dress as their favorite Super Hero or Heroine. One school is encouraging students to “Rock It Out and Stand Together” and dress like your favorite rock star. Students will be giving tips over the intercom on how to handle and recognize bullying. Teachers have also created their own lessons for additional classroom discussions on bullying, its effects and prevention.

“Bringing an element of “fun” to a serious subject really helps engage the students in understanding and recognizing bullying and how it can affect everyone”, stated Whittier Elementary Principal, Marcia McIntire.

USD 465 is a No Tolerance district in regards to bullying and has recently updated their Respect Initiative.  The Initiative can be found on the district's website at usd465.com by following these steps: select Community tab, then select ‘Respect Initiative’ under the Board of Education column.