Redefining the Line of Separation

Bullying begins at a young age and whether we realize it or not, this problem will continue to grow unless we intervene. I believe the bullying in our schools needs to be stopped; I also believe that each students’ education is equally as important as their safety in and out of school. High school is an intimidating world; you’re either accepted or neglected. The slightest things can set you apart from the crowd, and as an upper classman in high school I strive to redefine that line of separation. By promoting an anti-bullying environment in schools students will feel protected while they are learning, and will also be better focused on their educations. Fear causes a variety of emotions and distractions from the learning process; fear of being different, fear of being neglected. Without this reoccurring “fear” amongst the students, the educational world would be much more accepted.

I have become involved in a program called SNAPS and PALS at my high school. As a student I have been given the responsibility of watching over a group of special needs students. We work with them daily to encourage, guide, and promote good decisions. Being a part of this program has made me fully aware of the dangers of bullying and as a previous witness and victim, I have chosen to stand against it. I will never again be just a bystander; no person deserves to be singled out for being the person they were born to be. As a mentor our job is to promote education, encourage socializing, and grow and develop a variety of basic skills with our assigned pals. In doing this I have become a much stronger and knowledgeable person. I have learned that something as easy as a multiplication problem can cause another person an immense amount of stress, and that putting thoughts into words does not come so easily to those who don’t have a strong vocabulary. These basic skills that are highly taken for granted amongst students (of every level of education) are the things highlighted to show variation and separation in the student body. Every individual is unique, with their own flaws, their own weaknesses, and their own strengths. Rather than pointing out the imperfections in the individuals, schools need to emphasize the positive aspects each student brings to the educational environment.

An anti-bully program, along with a SNAPS and PALS program for each school, both public and private, is the answer. It may not cure all levels of bullying but it will most definitely impact the victims of harassment and persecution within schools. An anti-bullying program, run by students for students would make the most significant effect. Peers talking to peers would build relationships, instill trust, and promote friendship rather than bullying. It would not be an easy task taken on by the students, but for each member that takes part in the program lives would be positively affected. Along with an anti-bullying program, a SNAPS and PALS program would also contribute to safer educational environment. This unique program would generate a better awareness for disadvantaged students and would promote safety and confidence in the pals lives.

It’s not about the number of people you have involved or the number of people you affect; it’s about the positive impact and the growth towards a safer environment for all students. Education is always enforced as the highest priority, but if the learning environment is feared how are the students expected to learn and understand? Safety holds just as much importance as education in the eyes of the students, and the educators of this generation need to understand that.