Bullying program makes a difference at Ohio elementary school

Upon hearing about the positive impact the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program was having at neighboring Lima schools, Trish Winkler, principal of Unity Elementary, decided to take action. “Bullying is one of the most difficult issues students face. Even with a school’s best effort, bullying can affect the safety and well-being of the entire student population.”

With the help of Lima’s Partnership for Violence Free Families — a group created through a grant awarded by the HealthPath Foundation of Ohio —the Olweus Program was put in place at Unity Elementary in February of 2006.

According to Winkler, many students, especially those in elementary school, do not have a clear understanding of bullying. The Olweus Program clearly defines bullying and provides examples of the many different types of bullying. It also provides a scripted program for school staff to follow in bullying situations.

“The program has definitely increased awareness among the student population,” said Winkler. “In fact, it has become a part of Unity’s school culture. The bully prevention rules are read daily during the morning announcement, bully prevention posters are hung throughout the school, and each month we recognize students that have not been involved in bullying incidents. The kids take a lot pride in their efforts and don’t want to let us down — that tells me the program is working.”