• BROOKINGS, S.D. - SDSU Extension and 4-H Youth Development is taking a stand against bullying by partnering with local schools and communities, as well as, other like-minded agencies in the implementation of "Take A Stand."
• Across America today, bullying continues to stand at the forefront in our nation's schools, communities, and youth programming opportunities. It affects youth of all ages. The National Education Associations (NEA) statistics are startling.
• According to the NEA, one in three American schoolchildren in grades six through 10 are affected by bullying. Eighty-three percent of girls and 79 percent of boys report experiencing harassment. Students who are targets of repeated bullying behavior experience extreme fear and stress, which can be expressed as: fear of going to school, fear of using a public bathroom, fear of the bus ride to and from school, physical symptoms of illness and diminished ability to learn.
• SD 4-H Youth Development Take A Stand Program was originally developed by Texas Agrilife Extension Service's 4-H and Youth Development Program and by the Texas Rural Mediation Services. It is an enrichment program that focuses on conflict management and bullying. The series of five lessons incorporates topics such as communication, teamwork, etiquette, social skills, and empathy. Students receive handouts, resources and certificates of completion. The curriculum is divided into three age appropriate sets of instruction.
• *           Curriculum for grades 3-5
• *           Curriculum for grades 6-8
• *           Curriculum for grades 9-12
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• The Take A Stand Program offers youth the opportunity to learn: How to work out their conflicts using peaceful methods while learning how to express themselves with their words instead of physical actions; Skills in communication, teamwork, cultural awareness and etiquette which will assist them in working out current conflicts; and Life skills which will help them in their future relationships, community organizations and in their careers.
• SDSU Extension 4-H Youth Program Advisors were trained in the program in April, 2013 by the SDSU Extension 4-H Youth Development Field Specialists at Regional Offices throughout the state. For more information on the Take A Stand program contact your local SDSU Extension 4-H Youth Program Advisor; find contact information under the "Field Staff Listing," on iGrow.org.
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