Letter to Editor

Friday, May 06, 2011

Amanda Mozis

St. Cloud, MN 56301

To whom this may concern,

First, thank you for taking the time to read this. I am writing to inform you of one the critical issues in today’s schools. Though there are many issues, bullying is one of the worst issues that are in need of fixing.

Bullying is repeated, aggressive behavior that involves unwanted, negative actions. Bullying can be in any of the following forms: verbal bullying; social exclusion; physical bullying, such as hitting, kicking, spitting, etc.; lies and false rumors; damaging property; threatening or forcing others; and racial, sexual, and cyber bullying through text messages or email. There are many reasons for bullying, some of which include the bully having a strong need for power and dominance; the bully finds satisfaction in causing injury or suffering to others; and the bully is rewarded in some ways for their behavior. Bullying has many effects everyone involved.

All students deserve to feel safe at school. For those experiencing bullying, there are lasting effects, such as depression, low self-esteem, health problems, poor grades, and suicidal thoughts. For the students who are bullying others, they need to be held accountable for their actions. These individuals are more than likely the students who get into fights frequently, steal and vandalize property, drink alcohol and smoke, report poor grades, perceive a negative attitude about school, and can be seen carrying a weapon. Bullying does not stop with those being bullied, or the one bullying, but also involves those witnessing the bullying. For those students who see students being bullied, they may also feel that they are in an unsafe environment, feeling fearful, powerless, and guilty. Bullying in today’s schools is a very serious issue that needs to be fixed.

Bullying is a vicious cycle. In every classroom, about one in five are experiencing in one way or another. The cycle starts with the student who is bullying, usually taking on a leader role. The next stage is the followers, who take part in bullying but do not initiate. The next two stages are the supporters/passive bullies, and passive supporters/possible bullies. The first group openly supports bullying with laughter, and the second does not openly show signs of support. The middle stage is the disengaged onlookers, who do not get involved, nor do they take a stand. The last two stages are the possible defenders and defenders. They both dislike bullying, but only the actual defenders step in and try to help. Because this is a never ending cycle, it will continue to repeat itself unless it is stopped.

Again, thank you for taking the time to read this. It is important to me to educate others on the critical issues in education today. I hope I was able to do so with this particular issue, bullying. Help make a difference in the lives of our students, be the change maker.  

Sincerely,

Amanda Mozis