Homer 33C stands united against bullying

Homer School District 33C is going orange Oct. 21 to show it stands united against bullying.

Students and staff plan to wear orange that day in conjunction with Unity Day -- a national movement to end bullying.

“It doesn’t matter if it’s a shirt, tie, wristband or shoelaces, just find something orange to wear Oct. 21 to show we are united against bullying and united for kindness, acceptance and inclusion,” read a staff newsletter.

Unity Day coincides with National Bullying Prevention Month in October. To mark the occasion, many Homer 33C schools are planning a series of activities throughout the month.

Homer Junior High, for example, is staging a Bigger Than Bullying Run/Walk during the advisories on Oct. 6.

On Oct. 19, they’ll be encouraged to sign a pledge to be Bully Free; and on Oct. 22, they’ll be encouraged to perform a random act of kindness in an effort to assist or cheer up another individual.

“Remember that we don’t just stand by … we stand up, stand strong, stand together,” students are told at Homer Junior High.

At Schilling School, students and staff plan to read the book “Spookley and the Square Pumpkin,” which has a strong anti-bullying message. Each classroom will then create a pumpkin for the school’s pumpkin patch bulletin board.

“The pumpkins will be of all sizes, shapes and colors as a reference to diversity and acceptance,” said teacher Nicki Storck.

At Young School, students and staff have set aside the week of Oct. 19 to celebrate National Bully Prevention Month with daily activities, announcements and theme days.

On one day, they will be encouraged to do something extra kind for someone. On another day, they will be encouraged to “be a buddy, not a bully” and talk to someone new.

“Maybe ask them to join in on a game at recess,” students are told. “Whatever it is, remember to always be a buddy.”