Anti-bullying in fashion at WES

Garnet and gray anti-bullying bracelets
reward positive behavior, represent responsibility

Nov. 4, 2011

In November, the first of the garnet and gray anti-bullying bracelets were distributed to fifth- and sixth-grade students. The bands read “Bully Free It Starts With Me” and are a reward for positive, bully-free behaviors toward others. View photo gallery

Students who received this first round of bracelets were selected by their teachers for exhibiting positive behavior in and out of the classroom.

Elementary teachers, staff and principals also wear the bracelets to signify that they are a “safe person” or a “person of trust” that students can talk to and report any negative or bullying behaviors they may be experiencing from others.

Students wearing the bracelets are also identified as “safe persons” who their peers can trust and speak to if they are the victim of bullying.

“We want to create an atmosphere where all students are alert to bullying,” said Sgt. Mark Spain, Watervliet Police Officer and School Resource Officer. “That means no more bystanders. Students who wear the bands will not participate in or stand by and witness as their classmates become the subject of negative behavior.”

This new anti-bullying program began at the elementary school in October with Sgt. Spain visiting fifth- and sixth-grade classes to work with students on conflict resolution, bullying, and self-esteem.

The goal is every fifth-grader and sixth-grader will have received a bracelet by January. If the program is as successful as he anticipates, Sgt. Spain plans to roll it out to the younger grades.

Download a letter from Sgt. Spain about the “Bully Free It Starts With Me” program.