OUR TURN: MFMS anti-bullying campaign needs some
‘muscle’ to be effective

A student-driven anti-bullying campaign recently launched at Marble Falls Middle School could have applications for the rest of the district and even Marble Falls itself.

The “No Place for Hate” initiative, designed by the Anti-Defamation League, aims to put an end to bullying and other negative behaviors on campus.

Though Marble Falls Independent School District administrators say bullying is not a problem at the middle school, even one episode is inexcusable.

And while the incidents likely are not widespread, tell that to the child who has been bullied or to his or her parents.

That’s why an initiative like this, if it proves successful, could be a good blueprint for other schools. The Pflugerville school district also employs the grass-roots campaign.

The lasting effects of bullying have been known for some time. They can lead to low self-esteem, poor grades, social isolation and, in rare cases, even harmful behavior such as suicide.

The accessibility of the Internet and the widespread use of social networking among young people has even helped give bullying another platform. It’s no longer restricted to the boys’ restroom or an empty hallway away from the teacher’s gaze, with twisted arms and demands for lunch money.

The program — which kicked off Monday — gives students the ability and empowerment to create a safe campus for everybody.

Each student and staff member is asked to sign a  “Resolution of Respect,” which outlines behaviors that encourage a stronger campus community.

Parents can even sign the resolution.

But collecting signatures won’t be enough. Putting bullies in their place takes action, determination and cooperation among students, staff and parents.

If enough people at least start by signing the resolution and following its ideals — which are based on the Preamble to the Constitution — there might not just be a change on campus, but also one that spreads through the community.

But the effort will take more than just signing a piece of paper.

Campus administrators, working with student-led programs, must convene several events geared around the “No Place for Hate” ideals.

Constant reaffirmation of an anti-bullying message, backed up by the appropriate disciplinary action from the principal’s office, will soon make it unpleasant to threaten other children.

Although there always will be some form of bullying, the amount and its adverse impact can be reduced if programs like this one work.

Maintaining student participation and interest is the key. Too often programs like this disappear because interest and commitment wane over time.

The district must continue to support the program, backed by the participation of parents and students.

Giving students a positive cause that focuses their energies can have a big impact that goes beyond the campus and lasts a lifetime.