WESTOVER, MD (October 2, 2024) – Somerset County Public Schools (SCPS) is proud to join schools nationwide in observing National Bullying Prevention Month throughout the month of October. This annual campaign aims to raise awareness about bullying prevention, promote kindness and encourage students, staff, and the Somerset community to take a stand against bullying. Bullying can be physical, verbal or psychological and can significantly impact a bullying victim’s self-esteem, attendance and academic performance.
To bring awareness to the greater community, SCPS will celebrate Unity Day on October 16; a special day when students, staff, and the community wears orange to symbolize unity against bullying. Unity Day is a time to show collective support for creating safe, inclusive school environments where every student feels respected and valued.
Key Activities for Bullying Prevention Month
During October, SCPS will engage in various activities to reinforce anti-bullying messages and promote positive behavior. Schools across the system will:
Host assemblies or classroom discussions on kindness, empathy, and respect.
Provide resources and activities focused on online safety, helping students understand how to prevent and respond to cyberbullying.
Encourage students to participate in peer-led initiatives promoting inclusion, such as kindness challenges and school-wide pledge campaigns.
Unity Day on October 16, 2024
Unity Day serves as a powerful reminder that bullying is a serious issue, and it takes everyone working together to create a welcoming school culture. On October 16, SCPS encourages everyone to wear orange, the color of unity, as a visual statement that we are united against bullying. Students will also participate in learning activities, including:
Classroom projects and discussions on the impact of bullying and ways to stand up for others.
Poster-making contests and social media campaigns to spread awareness about kindness and inclusion.
Unity walks and school-wide activities to foster a sense of community and belonging.
Dr. Tasker-Mitchell, Superintendent of Schools, emphasizes the importance of addressing bullying through education and proactive measures. “Our commitment to fostering a safe and supportive environment for all students is a top priority. Bullying prevention is not just a one-month effort; it’s part of our everyday culture of respect and kindness. We are proud to join in the national effort during Bullying Prevention Month, and we look forward to seeing our students and staff unite in orange on Unity Day.”
Members of the school community are encouraged to speak up, take action and report incidents of bullying to their school’s administration team or utilize the system’s online Bullying, Harassment & Intimidation form at: www.somerset.k12.md.us/report_BHI_form.
For more information on how to get involved in Bullying Prevention Month or Unity Day, please contact your local school or visit the SCPS website at www.somerset.k12.md.us.
SCPS is participating in the National Bullying Prevention campaign this October, that aims to raise awareness about bullying prevention, promote kindness, and encourage students, staff, and the broader community to take a stand against bullying.
On Wednesday, October 16, SCPS encourages everyone to wear orange, the color of unity, to show we stand united against bullying. Students across the school system will participate in activities that encourage kindness, inclusion and empathy for Unity Day.
By observing National Bullying Prevention Month and celebrating Unity Day, SCPS aims to empower students to be leaders in kindness and champions of a positive school climate.
Together, we can make a difference in the lives of students by ensuring that every school is a place where everyone feels safe, supported, and included.