Mitchell Students Learn How to Deal with Bullying

Students at Mitchell Elementary School in Woodbury learned about the magic of character to defend against bullying during a visit from "Magic Jim" Vagias on September 21.

Magic Jim, through his energetic storytelling, magic, humor and fun student participation, engaged the students during a school-wide assembly called Bully-Proof Your School.

With colorful banners describing his anti-bullying themes of respect, responsibility and caring, and the use of a friendly puppet, his performance deals with the topic of bullying by showing students different ways to be people of good character. He chose various students and Mitchell teachers to come up and participate in his performance.

"The students at Mitchell Elementary School thoroughly enjoyed the magical antics of Magic Jim," said Principal Mary Lou Torre. "They were engaged and spellbound."

Vagias and his anti-bully presentations have been seen by more than 500,000 students. His assembly is designed to complement and enhance state-mandated programs on bullying.

A former teacher, New Jersey-based Vagias combines a background in education with strong theater skills to educate, motivate and inspire young people and teach them life-affirming lessons.