By Brooke Swinehart
October is National Bullying Prevention M
onth. The purpose is to unite, and raise awareness in communities nationwide to educate and raise awareness of bullying prevention.
Penn Manor has an Aevidum club that creates a positive mental health environment, where all students feel accepted, acknowledged, appreciated, and cared for in schools.
“ Aevidum has helped (with bullying), but just to make everyone feel comfortable,” said senior Jacob Herr.
“I believe the programs should be continued and supported. I’ve seen an impact,” said senior Jack Whalen.
Senior Michael Campion believes that to stop bullying, the school needs “to give harsher punishments for bullying happening in school.”
Aevidum tries to encourage students to reach out if they are being bullied or see a classmate being bullied.
“Sadly, we know there are students in this building who are bullied or treated poorly by others. There are students who feel alone. But Aevidum wants those students to know they are not alone and each student deserves dignity,” said Ms. Maria Vita, psychology teacher and one of Avevidum’s leaders. “There are adults and caring students who want to assist anyone struggling with bullying or psychological stress. Speak out if you are being bullied or if you feel alone. Aevidum cares and we have your back.”
Other Penn Manor staff members addressed what they do about bullying as well.
“I like to think I can contribute to installing positive mindsets and behaviors in our students. Anyone can be a victim and anyone can become an abuser. I will continue to teach caring, consideration, compassion and being sincere as contribution to students while they become mature young adults,” said Mrs Barbara Trostle, library aide, also adding,” A negative mind will never give you a positive life!”