Approximately one in every four students experiences bullying and nearly all students will witness bullying during their years in school. Research shows that bullying can lead to depression, substance abuse, poor health, delinquency and poor academic performance.
Six years ago, Mayor Dyer made a commitment to bullying prevention and to ensure that our community continues to be a place of belonging, acceptance and respect for all people. Through Stand Up Orlando we have:
Provided year-round education for more than 5,000 students in nine Orlando middle schools through the Holocaust Center’s UpStander’s Program; Trained more than 250 City of Orlando Parks and Recreation employees in bullying prevention; Created awareness for the toll-free 24/7 Speak Out Hotline where students can anonymously report bullying; Proclaimed October 25th as “Unity Day” in the City of Orlando to raise awareness about bullying and show our commitment to kindness, acceptance and inclusion; Experienced 69% fewer referrals for bullying and harassment in participating middle schools.
We could not have accomplished this, and so much more, without the impactful programming provided by the Holocaust Center and the financial support of our sponsors, who have taken a stand to end bullying.
