DEARBORN – State Representative George T. Darany (Dearborn) joined Oakman Elementary students, staff and parents for an anti-bullying assembly on Thursday morning. The assembly was part of Dearborn Public Schools’ district-wide, anti-bullying movement that was revealed at an event earlier in September.
“Dearborn schools have really taken the lead on anti-bullying initiatives and I was so pleased to be part of this assembly at Oakman,” Darany said. “It was great to see such an enthusiastic group of kids committed to standing up against bullying behavior. The continued dedication of Dearborn’s administration, teachers and parents will also have a substantial impact in our schools and throughout the community.”
Representative Darany sang a song and played a game with the students to convey a message about accepting the differences of their classmates and supporting each other in a positive way. The program encouraged students to treat others with respect and school officials provided tips on what students should do if they find themselves in a situation where bullying is present. Students also participated by taking a pledge to help end all forms of bullying.
“When I was growing up, bullying was pretty much confined to the hallways and the schoolyard,” Darany said. “But our children have a lot more to deal with now that social networking sites have become so popular. This is why it is so important for our kids to understand what bullying is and what they can do to prevent it or put a stop to it.”
Representative Darany also remains optimistic that the anti-bullying legislation being considered by the House of Representatives will see action this fall.
“Michigan is one of only five states that has not yet enacted anti-bullying legislation,” Darany said. “All of our kids deserve to learn in an environment where they feel safe and anti-bullying programs will help accomplish this goal. I remain hopeful that there is enough bipartisan support to get legislation moving again and signed into law.”