Staley Da Bear Visits Bolingbrook Students

Submitted by Valley View School District 365U

Chicago Bears mascot Staley Da Bear and his “Bear Down on Bullies” team dropped by Jonas Salk Elementary School Tuesday morning to help educate students on the dangers of bullying and the importance of respect.

“It’s important to get bullying out of our schools and out of our communities,” Bear Down on Bullies master of ceremonies Lauren Hart said.

Hart detailed the various types of bullying and the effects bullies have on their victims.

“It’s very frustrating and uncomfortable. You can feel really bad,” she said. “You’re not happy. You don’t feel wanted. It’s hard to concentrate on the things you’re supposed to be concentrating on in school.”

What can students do about bullying?

●Stop and walk away from the bully

●Stick up for what’s right

●Include everyone, don’t exclude anyone

●Find an adult who can help

●Always show respect for each other.

“We also want to be sure we’re not bullies ourselves,” she said, urging the entire school to come together as a team to combat bullying. “It’s important for each of us to feel happy and welcome.”