RSD Anti-Bullying Ambassadors Take the Lead

  • StudentsRockwood middle school students are raising awareness and acceptance as the district's new anti-bullying ambassadors.

    "Young people can change the world," shared Dr. Terry Harris, executive director student services. "You are empowered with strength, knowledge, wisdom and courage to make our schools a better place for all."

    Susanna from Crestview Middle shared that bullying is an actual, real-life problem in our schools and the United States. "It's everywhere, and we need to learn about it so we can prevent it," she says.

    Teams from all six Rockwood middle schools took part in a new leadership program is founded upon R-S-D anti-bullying standards:

    R: Recognize it
    S: Stop it
    D: Describe it

    On Oct. 23, students spent their day in leadership training so they were equipped to become people who speak up against bullying. The first step is for students to learn the language, context and skills to become ambassadors. The next step is to raise awareness in their Rockwood schools to gain support and help spread the word.

    Diego from Wildwood Middle noted that some kids might need help, and it's good they have someone to turn to in those instances. "We are being trained so we can help other people," he says. "I feel happy that other students are interested in being ambassadors. It's good for our school environment."

    "Your voices can make a difference," Dr. Harris shared with the students. "You have more power than you think to encourage empathy and inclusion for all."

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do you have questions about Rockwood's anti-bullying ambassador program?

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    Contact Dr. Terry Harris, executive director student services, at harristerry@rsdmo.org or call (636) 733-2189.
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  • How can we describe it?

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    It’s important to report bullying behavior at school and at home. Carefully describe what you saw, who was involved, where it took place, what you did, and how you felt about it. As an anti-bullying ambassador, you have a team of caring adults who can help resolve the conflict and help bring resolution to the situation.
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  • How can we stop it?

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    Be firm and confident knowing that you are doing the right thing. There is no need to shame or humiliate the people involved. Ask a simple question to find out why the speaker made the offensive comment and how you can best address the situation. You can also educate the other person and explain why a behavior is offensive. Sometimes it’s ignorance at work. Always consider your own safety in all situations, and ask a trusted adult to help if needed.
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  • How can we recognize it?

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    Bullying behavior could be calling someone hurtful and derogatory names. Spreading lies and bad rumors about someone. Hitting, punching, shoving, spitting and physically hurting someone. Excluding others socially or isolating them from the group. Taking away money or possessions. It also includes online bullying behaviors, such as sending mean texts, emails or instant messages. Posting photos or messages about others. Using someone else’s username to spread rumors or lies. If you question whether it could be bullying behavior, please speak to a trusted adult.
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  • What causes bullying behavior?

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    There are many causes. Some may feel powerless in their own lives. Some may have experienced bullying behavior themselves. Some may feel jealous of or frustrated with the person they are bullying. Some may lack understanding or empathy for others. Some may need to feel as if they are in control. Some may think their bullying behavior gets rewarded through the attention of others. Some may have trouble regulating their emotions.
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  • How can we define bullying behavior?

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    Unwanted, aggressive, intentional and inappropriate behavior that is repeated and hurtful. Bullying involves an imbalance of power. It can involve behavior that is physical, social, cyber or verbal.
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