Saddlewood Elementary Kicks off the Olweus Bully Prevention Program

April 2010

Saddlewood Elementary School kicked off the Olweus Bully Prevention Program in April with a daylong celebration of activities. The day started with a morning assembly where students viewed a video clip showing a bullying scene. In the classroom they discussed the video and brainstormed ways to stop bullying from happening. The teachers also read them the book “One Smile” which sent them the positive message of what a smile can do. They also did a self portrait which was to become a part of a school-wide quilt. Parts of the quilt were carried in the” March Against Bullying” parade (pictured in this gallery). Students, with the help of parents, teachers, school staff and community leaders, marched around the school campus to create a bully free zone. The march ended at the school where students sang a song that was composed earlier in the year with songwriter Brian Chevalier. The song was composed specifically for this event with all students participating. Following the song, students returned inside their school to witness an unveiling of a “Bully Free Zone”sign by Colonie Village Mayor Frank Leak. The sign is now posted at the entrance to the school.