CCMS Continues Bullying Prevention Efforts

Bullying is a painfully prevalent issue at schools across the country, and it seems that the most trouble comes when students are in their adolescent years. Young girls often find themselves wrapped up in a form known as relational aggression – an under-the-table method of social isolation and rejection which has serious consequences for the victim. Self-worth and self-esteem come at a premium during these formative years, and this camouflaged mode of bullying diminishes both. By partnering up with the Women’s Help Center, Central Cambria Middle School continues to combat this trend and keep the anti-bullying efforts in the forefront of their extracurricular programming.

On Friday, January 28th, Prevention Specialist Lauren Spangler from the Women’s Help Center visited 7th and 8th grade girls’ physical education classes with a presentation on relational aggression and cliques. The program is based upon the book Queen Bees and Wannabes by Rosalind Wiseman and aims “to open the eyes of adolescent females and to promote empathy and unity among girls.”

After reviewing the reflections of students who sat through the presentation, it seems the message that the speaker was trying to convey came through loud and clear. Most students especially appreciated how the program was conducted in a way that they could relate to both the speaker and the material.  One eighth grade student remarked, “The presentation was good because it showed us that we all know how it feels to be bullied and none of us like it. The information was very important. It showed us things that can help us or help stop bullying.” Another commented, “After the presentation I wanted to apologize to every girl I might have said something mean to. You have the power and you can help change someone else’s life.” We hope to invite the Women’s Help Center back next year to continue to spread their powerful message.