Schools

Children Fight Back Against Bullies — Peacefully

Fourth graders are teaching their fellow students not to bully.

While bullying often makes headlines, in the Riverhead school district, there are peacemakers.

It all started with Morgan Dunn, a Roanoke Avenue Elementary School student, who spoke out against bullying; today the program exists in two Riverhead elementary schools. 

Last year, school officials said, Morgan met with Roanoke Principal Tom Payton and asked if she could form a group to end bullying.

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Payton agreed, and Roanoke Anti-Bullying club was formed.

This year, the kids changed their name to "The Peacemakers." Their message, school reps said, is that kids should "Speak Up; Don't Be a Bystander; Forgive Others; Accept Others For their Differences; Include Others; Seek Help if You Need It; and We Can Make a Difference."

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Fourth graders at the Phillips Avenue and Roanoke Elementary Schools have joined the club.

The students meet with Shannon Kutner, a Riverhead Community Awareness Program elementary social worker, and give up some of their recess time to discuss ways to end bullying in their school. 

In addition, the kids read the book "The Juice Box Bully" to every class in their school and asked their fellow students to sign a pledge not to bully — and to speak up if another child needs help.

In January, the students will assist their schools by organizing student and staff participation in “The Great Kindness Challenge”.  



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