To link directly to this article, click on: http://www.ips.k12.in.us/2013/10/14/district-students-earn-distinction-with-anti-bullying-messages/
DISTRICT STUDENTS EARN DISTINCTION WITH ANTI-BULLYING MESSAGES
Students from Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) have been honored for their winning ideas in Bright House Networks and Net Literacy’s Students Against Bullying Contest. The campaign is part of Bright House Networks and Net Literacy’s push to promote young people as active allies and advocates in bullying prevention.
Elementary, middle and high school students were challenged to develop messages that could address bullying through the question, “If you had 25 seconds, what would you say to others about bullying or cyber bullying?”
Winners received the opportunity to present their message in a professionally-produced public service announcement. The short videos will be used by teachers, parents and nonprofit organizations to reinforce effective and safe ways for kids to step in and help others from being bullied. More than 200 student entries were submitted for the contest. A few of the student PSAs can be found at:
“We know that the most effective way to reach students with important messages is through their peers,” said John Althardt, director of school and community relations for Indianapolis Public Schools. “Our students have created powerful messages and we appreciate and thank all those who continue to support this important project.”
The student-produced PSAs will air on Bright House Networks in October, in recognition of National Anti-Bullying Prevention Month. The PSAs can also be viewed on IPSTube, SafeConnects.org, and Net Literacy’s YouTube Channel.
“We received hundreds of heartfelt responses from students who were bystanders, had bullied others, and had been bullied,” said Dan Kent, executive director of Net Literacy, a student-founded and student-managed nonprofit. “The videos help provide a better understanding of the bullying problem and will promote civility throughout our community.”
The winners of the Students Against Bullying Contest are as follows:
– Zoe Gowens-Evans, 10th grade, Gambold Preparatory Magnet High School
– Andre Dickerson, 7th grade, Shortridge Magnet Middle School
– Dennis Bacon, 12th grade, New Tech High at Arsenal Tech
– Deondrea Belton, 12th grade, Broad Ripple Magnet High School
– Jena Hatcher, 5th grade, Merle Sidener Gifted Academy
– Catherine Morgan, 8th grade, Harshman Magnet Middle School
Watch a video that explains more and was carried by Bright House Networks, Comcast, U-verse, and broadcast television stations – http://ipstube.ips.k12.in.us/video/1744/IPS-Showcase-November-2013-Seg-2
