"Bully," "Victim," "Cyberbullying," and "Passive and Active Bystanders" were all terms that were talked about and explained during "Anti Bullying Awareness Day" at MTA.  On Tuesday, November 25th, the whole school dedicated time to analyzing and discussing the issue of bullying and the power of being an Active Bystander.  As a part of Spirit Month, we focused on this topic to help build the students of MTA into one team. The program was led by Mrs. Tamar Sheffey, Director of Guidance, with the deep involvement of administrators, faculty, and Student Council members.  Each grade was involved in an interactive presentation where they were divided into groups which were given bullying scenarios to discuss among themselves and then with the larger grade as a whole. Lively discussions ensued as each grade came up with many ideas for providing help as Active Bystanders.  A video presentation from The Bystander Revolution followed, and students then signed their names to a banner as they pledged to take a stand against bullying, completing the grade-wide program. 

In the classrooms, Rebbeim and teachers found their own way to cover the topic. Using such things as Gemara- based sources on  the issur of embarrassing someone, scientific articles on the brain function of the bully, victim and bystander, videos, historical events, current events and other ideas, the faculty put their usual classroom topics aside for a while to focus on this very important topic.  Dramatic skits, friendship building games, and other activities could be heard through the hallways.  Gavi Goldstein, a sophomore, said, "Each teacher was able to come at the topic from his or her own angle. It was great to hear what they had to say."  Teachers also really enjoyed talking to students in a different way then usual. As Mrs. HLZacks said, "The kids had tons to say and took it very seriously!. The teachers told me they were having 'so much fun' and that 'the lesson went extremely well.'  I think today was a huge success!"

"Band Against Bullying" bracelets were given out as well as anti-bullying pencils and dog tags. There are a few more giveaways still available in Mrs. Sheffey's office so students should feel free to stop by and get one!