My platform is called Kayla's Heroes. It is an anti-bullying and conflict resolution program designed to help children learn how to S.T.A.M.P out bullies.
S.T.A.M.P. stands for
Stay away from bullies
Tell someone
Avoid bad situations
Make friends
Project confidence.
My program has seen a lot of success with elementary school students because it is fast paced and interactive. But in the last six months it has become my mission to figure out how to translate this wildly important message into a pertinent topic for high school students. I was recently invited to take part in a Teen town hall to discuss bullying in an open forum. I was part of a panel of experts including counselors, educators, police officers and other prominent members of the Fort Worth community.
The most influential person to me at this appearance was a young woman who spoke up right at the close of discussion. I could tell there was something she desperately wanted to say, but it was tough for her. Once she worked up her courage, here is the story she shared with us:
"Hi everyone. I'm so glad to have had the opportunity to participate in
this discussion. When they say to tell someone, it could be the
most important thing you could do. A few years ago I was teased relentlessly
because I cared about my grades and my future. I did not wear
the fancy clothes and shoes that everyone was wearing and I soon found myself
on the outside. The bullying threw me into a deep depression, and I was starting to
have suicidal thoughts. I told my friends and my parents, and without their help,
love, and support I would not be standing here today. If there is one thing I can tell
you, you MUST talk to your parents. Its vital to our survival."
This appearance changed my life and my view of bullying.
