How Sharing 'Don't Hurt Gerald' Can Help Kids Combat Bullying

Fountain Lake Middle School Empowers Upstander Movement Against Bullying

Update Empowering Students: The Upstander Movement at Fountain Lake Fountain Lake Middle School has taken a bold step in its commitment to combating bullying, initiating a comprehensive anti-bullying campaign aimed directly at its students. Held on November 12, 2025, the presentation emphasized the importance of being "upstanders" rather than bystanders when witnessing bullying incidents. School Counselor Heather Adams led the effort, addressing essential topics including the root causes of bullying, preventive strategies, and available resources for students. Understanding that bullying affects students of all ages, Adams focused on its heightened prevalence among middle schoolers. "Middle school is a hard age. They're trying to figure out who they want to be ... and sometimes they're just being what they think helps them fit in," she explained. This sentiment is echoed in current research that links bullying to severe mental health risks, such as depression and anxiety, especially within vulnerable populations. Recognizing the Symptoms: The Critical Role of Adults The insights from Adams align with findings from various studies, emphasizing the significance of adult involvement in bullying prevention. Many victims come from backgrounds with socioeconomic challenges, which can exacerbate feelings of helplessness. "Typically, kids who are bullying are experiencing violence or uncertain situations ... seeking some control," she noted. This reality underscores the necessity for parents and teachers to recognize signs of distress in children, which can be pivotal in preventing bullying behavior. In an enlightening parallel, past seminars, such as one in March 2013, have confronted bullying's harsh realities head-on. They highlighted how societal pressures often push young individuals into roles of aggressors or victims. The message from that seminar remains relevant today, urging students to be aware of their impact on others, especially in an era dominated by social media. The Digital Dimension of Bullying: A Modern Challenge The complexity of bullying has evolved with technology, as cyberbullying presents unique challenges that can follow students home. Adams noted the nuance required in bullying prevention amidst widespread digital interaction. This has prompted schools to adopt formal policies, like the Safe Place to Learn Act, which ensures resources for addressing incidents of cyberbullying are readily accessible to parents and students. Furthermore, Principal Adam Stage's remarks during the presentation emphasized that students often underestimate their influence. He encouraged those who may be adept in social circles to utilize their standing to advocate for peers in distress. This empowerment can lead to pivotal changes in school environments, fostering a culture where bullying is actively challenged. Creating Safe Spaces: Resources for Students Part of Fountain Lake's proactive approach includes providing anonymous reporting tools, which allow students to speak up without fear of retaliation. The validation of their concerns through such resources is instrumental to the school's overarching goal of discouraging bullying behavior. Dean discussions and seminars like these converge towards creating supportive networks among peers, encouraging empathy and understanding. "Hopefully this makes a difference for at least one kid," Adams hopes, reiterating that every step taken against bullying counts. Knowing that even one student could find the courage to act can be a powerful motivator for schools to invest in such initiatives. Encouraging Community Involvement: A Family Affair For parents, involvement doesn’t stop at the school door. It's essential to foster open dialogues at home about bullying and its implications. By emphasizing empathy and respect, parents can help their children navigate these challenges, reinforcing that bullying is unacceptable both in person and online. Encouraging them to stand up against bullying not only strengthens their character but enhances their social environments. The message from Fountain Lake Middle School is clear: each student has the power to effect change, drawing from the momentum created by awareness and community efforts. Whether through school-sponsored programs or at-home discussions, the combined aim is to eliminate bullying—a goal that is not just beneficial for individuals but essential for nurturing a positive educational atmosphere.