As educators, we understand the profound impact that bullying and unkind behavior can have on our students. That’s why it’s crucial to not only teach and model appropriate behaviors but also to empower our students to become active participants in creating a supportive and inclusive school environment.
In my fifth-grade library class, addressing the role of bystanders and promoting the importance of being an upstander is a priority. We recognize that we have the power to either exacerbate the situation by remaining passive or to make a positive difference by intervening or seeking help.
Bystanders and Upstanders
It is important for students to understand the difference between bystanders and upstanders. While bystanders may not actively participate in bullying, their mere presence can intensify the experience for the victim. On the other hand, upstanders are individuals who recognize bullying behavior and take action to intervene or support the victim.
This distinction is crucial, especially as my students prepare to transition to middle school. By equipping them with the knowledge and skills to be upstanders, we’re empowering them to make a difference in their new school environment.
Free Google Slide Presentation
I use this slideshow to explain bullying: what it is, why it happens, how to respond – all in kid-friendly terms. This presentation also explains the difference between being a bystander and an upstander and what students can do if they find themselves demonstrating bullying behavior to others. Practical advice is given to help encourage students to stand up for what is right – even when it isn’t easy.
Make a Commitment
To reinforce this lesson, I invite my students to create posters highlighting ways they can be upstanders in our school community. From speaking up against bullying to offering friendship and support to those in need, their posters are a testament to their commitment to kindness and empathy. To celebrate their efforts and involve families in the conversation, I share photos of each student with their poster on our school’s private Facebook page.
Hope for the Future
While we recognize that we may never completely eradicate bullying, as educators, we remain steadfast in our commitment to creating safer and more welcoming environments for all our students. By empowering our students to become upstanders, we’re not only fostering a sense of responsibility and empathy but also instilling values that will serve them well beyond the classroom.
As the school year draws to a close, I’m reminded of the incredible potential of our students to effect positive change. Together, we’ll continue to strive towards a future where kindness prevails, one upstander at a time.
