On Wednesday August 24th, BCMS staff and students wore black to “Black Out” bullying in a symbolic manner. This was explicitly done with the purpose of bringing awareness to the issue of bullying and rallying sentiment against bullying and bullies.

Many might ask the question “What is the purpose of a day for this, or an event of this sort?” The answer is that studies show that 1 in 7 students are either a bully, or are the target or subject of bullying themselves. This state of affairs calls for action, and an event like the one that was hosted at BCMS.

There are many explanations for why bullies do what they do, but the one that rings the most true is that bullies suffer from low self-esteem issues. Perhaps due to emotional traumas, or personal issues, bullies in a desperate attempt to feel powerful target those who they see as easily picked on and target able. They minimize others in order to gain a sense of power, for the purpose of feeling less bad about themselves. But there is no reason to give bullies that kind of power, or to abide their torment of other students.

Not everything in life is controllable. Much will remain out of our grasp, or just beyond our reach. But what can always be controlled, no matter what, is ourselves, and our reactions to incidents like these. We can and must ignore words that aren’t true, that are meant to antagonize and demean us. We can and must report verbal and physical abuse to a trusted adult, no matter what, for the good of all of us.

Every single student at BCMS, regardless of race, gender, nationality etc. is worthy of a safe and happy environment. One person can make a difference, and that is why we must all strive to be that one person.

“If we bring awareness to the topic and instruct our students on how to report any issues of bullying with a trusted adult, we can help to put an end to students mistreating their peers,” said Lisa Doyle, BCMS YSC Director.

In order to reward students who are fighting to make a difference at BCMS, a reward system has been implemented. On the last Tuesday of each month, one student will be awarded with a Colonel Spirit Award. Teachers n ominate students who have a good attitude, good attendance and good academics. This month, Luke Bromagen, a 6th grade riverdog won the award. In addition to the Spirit award, a “Colonel Class Award” will be presented to students who embody “class” by having good character, good citizenship and concern for others. This month, Carter Conley, another 6th grade riverdog received the award. The two recipients received a certificate and a treat from Lisa Doyle, Youth Services Director, who developed this award program to help with student recognition and to promote positive behavior.