Timely Subject Presented to Brillion, Chilton and Hilbert Middle School Students

Deana's Education Theater, a theater group from Boston, presents shows to young audiences across the county emphasizing healthy relationships. On November 2nd they delivered powerful messages about the damage of bullying and effective methods of dealing with a bully to the boys at each school. Their interactive theatrical performance entitled "Step Up" featured three actors depicting Mike the bully, Ted his target, and Nate a boy caught in the middle.

Mike varies his unrelenting physical, verbal, and emotional abuse in overt and subtle methods toward Ted. Initially passive in his response, Ted's emotions escalate and he ultimately gains strength from the help of Nate. Nate has been caught in the middle watching the abuse, not condoning it yet not really taking a firm stance in stopping it either. He is leery of Mike and takes awhile to make the shift to "step up" to aid Ted.

Following the skit, the actors interacted with the 5th thru 8th graders touching on numerous issues around bullying. Different types of abuse were depicted in the skit and then pointed out by the students. They discussed verbal abuse and the power given to words, physical abuse, and the most damaging emotional abuse – often from cumulating effects of all forms of abuse over time.

Cyber-bullying was addressed and credited to those who are true cowards hiding behind the internet. One boy pointed out that a cyber-bully thinks they may not get caught. Kids gave their point of view as to why a bully engages in their behaviors. The actors emphasized that you may never know the reason why, just know that there is no justifiable excuse.

The role of the abuser, victim and bystander(s) were touched upon. Emphasis was given to the bystander and the power they possess in prevention.

Rich Appel, Chilton Middle School Principal, spoke to the Chilton Middle School boys after the presentation. "Those of you who where laughing today at the skit, are you the bullies? Did it make you uncomfortable," questioned Appel.

He then presented a challenge, "Eighty percent of you have never been in my office. It is you that we ask to "step up" and help stop the behaviors."

Girls took part in a female-centered awareness-building activity led by Harbor House staff entitled "Crossing the Line." The goal was to provide voice to girls who are currently being bullied or have experienced such behaviors in the past and recognize each others differences as strengths.

The Harbor House Domestic Abuse Program sponsored the program and was made possible through grants received from the Robert and Patricia Endries Family Foundation, Chilton Area Community Foundation, United Fund of Chilton and Brillion Community City Drive. The program was part of Harbor House's Prevention Education Program which strives to teach all school-age children and youth how to lead lives free from violence.

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