Standing Up Against Bullying at OLWEUS

Interview by Kavin Dharanilingam

Article by Jayhawk Nest Staff

February 12, 2024

On October 19, 2023, JMS Middle School students engaged in a variety of activities with the goal of empowering students to take a stand against bullying. 

Throughout the day, students experienced “walking a mile in someone’s shoes” outside on the track. During this activity that symbolized the power of empathy, students had the opportunity to connect with their peers and reflect on anti-bullying practices. With each lap around the track, students received a foot charm to keep track of their progress. Students had fun connecting with friends and spending time outdoors, in addition to a variety of indoor workshops, activities, and a guest speaker assembly.

OLWEUS is an anti-bullying program created by Dan Olweus to empower bystanders to stand up against bullying. Rather than being passive witnesses, the program teaches bystanders a variety of strategies to stop bullying when it occurs and to provide support to bullying victims. JMS has been implementing the OLWEUS program for about ten years. At this year’s OLWEUS Kickoff, students spent a day learning about the impact of anti-bullying initiatives and how to use bystander intervention strategies in bullying situations.

In addition to walking the track, the day included an inspiring presentation by paralympic wrestler Rohan Murphy. Guidance counselor Ms. Schmitt commented that “we had Rohan Murphy as a speaker in the past, so we were excited to have him join us again.” Students also participated in various anti-bullying workshops and discussions, and attended an exciting afternoon of students vs. staff games.

According to Ms. Schmitt, “ the purpose of the day is to highlight that we are all united in participating in anti-bullying.” In addition to being fun and memorable, the OLWEUS kickoff was a powerful reminder that empowering bystanders can make a world of difference in preventing bullying.