Need 2 Know: Kids learn How to Stop Bullying in School

BEAVERCREEK, OH (WDTN) - As a parent, this may surprise you. A survey found nearly one in three kids in Ohio in sixth through twelfth grades say they were bullied in some way. Last August, we told you about an anti-bullying program being taught to some Beavercreek teachers. Today, they shared what they learned with students. Here's what you need to know to about empowering your child.

Wednesday teachers at Main Elementary had their students cracking up at a school assembly. They acted out bullying scenarios in order to teach the kids a very important lesson. Students learned exactly what is considered bullying. "If something's happening over time or a single student is doing something repeatedly, we'll address that. But we won't address it if it's the first time, because we want to see a pattern." says Mary Rice, the school counselor. That's one component . The others are an imbalance of power and aggressive acts. Students say they don't see much physical fighting, but bullying does go on in their school.
Ethan Green is a student, "Yes, every once in awhile I see someone getting left out of a group." Student Madison Huffman agrees. "I've heard people commenting about other people not in a very nice way."

Teachers acted out a bullying incident, then showed how students can handle a bully if they're a victim. The message is getting through. "When someone tries to bully you, stand up to them and you'll have more power." says student Mackenzie Drake. Students are also learning how to help someone else "It could be as simple as befriending someone, or as simple as reaching out to someone, or as a group it's easier to stand up to someone who's trying to bully." says Rice.

Ohio school districts must comply with one of the strictest bullying laws in the country. All schools must publish and carry out an anti-bullying plan.