St. Cloud Independent School District 742, in conjunction with the St. Cloud Police Department and the Stearns County Attorney's Office, are sponsoring an Anti-Bullying Video contest for all District 742 Schools. The goal for this contest is to continue efforts to promote the awareness and prevention of bullying in schools. Each participating school will produce a 5-7 minute video about bully awareness and prevention. The videos will be produced by the students with assistance from staff.
The winning schools will have their video posted on St. Cloud Times Online, as well as on the District 742's website. The videos will be judged by District 742 Superintendent Bruce Watkis, Acting Chief of police Rich Wilson, and Stearns County Attorney Janelle Kendall. Production of the videos has already begun with a due date of February 10, 2012. The winning videos will also receive additional funds to continue their own efforts in creating a safe environment in their school.
Some of the challenge in the reduction of bullying is understanding and perhaps believing the real effect on real kids. Kids themselves talking about this powerful issue is well received by both kids and adults. Each school in District 742 faces the challenge of reducing the effects of bullying. Some efforts that have already been implemented in school include a bullying presentation produced by the St. Cloud Police Department School Resource Officers and is presented to grades 6 through 12. There are also anonymous tips lines and drop boxes in schools for reporting bullies by their peers. It also allows them to work with victims for support and counseling. Each school has their methods and strategies to accomplish this goal. This contest is designed to bring all District 742 Schools together for a common goal. It allows the student voices to be heard from the students' point of view.
If you have any questions please contact St. Cloud School Resource Officer Aaron Stellmach at 320-290-8771.