Today we had the pleasure of visiting Burkevale Protestant Separate School in Penetanguishene, Ontario. It was a great experience because the school seems to live up to its Bill of Rights. Students told us how proud they are to be students at Burkevale. Some children we talked to told us that bullying seldom happens at Burkevale but in spite of that, the students were eager to learn more about ways they can deal with bullying and specifically how they can support each other. The ‘Stand Up Against Bullying’ assemblies we presented today teach the value of community and these students showed us they understand many of these concepts already. Principal, Tim Mallon constantly encourages positive character growth in his students. Being around him during our visit proved his commitment to the character education he teaches daily, just by his example. He invited the students from St. Ann’s Catholic School in Penetanguisheen to join his students for the assemblies. Following the presentations, Mr. Mallon left us with several comments including the following: “Your Benny DL character and message really connected with our students. The mix of entertainment and serious reflection is a winning combination. Your presence capped off anti-bullying week perfectly!” Mr. Tim Mallon, Principal Burkedale Protestant Separate School, Penetanguishene Ontario.
Here are Burkevale’s Bill of Rights: We have: 1. The right to be treated with respect. 2. The right to express our feelings as long as the rights of others are not violated, 3. The right to our own physical and mental space 4. The right to ask for help if and when we need it, 5. The right to ask for information, 6. The right to have a learning environment that is safe and secure.

School assemblies designed to raise bullying awareness – www.atfm.ca