ADL has completed another successful season of anti-bias and bullying prevention programs in the Desert Sands Unified School District (DSUSD). For the sixth year, ADL’s A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE ® Institute provided free anti-Bias and bullying prevention programs to Desert Sands and Palm Springs Unified School Districts thanks to the generosity of the Jewish Federation of the Desert. The programs reached hundreds of students and teachers, providing them with tools to tackle issues of bullying and bias in school environments.
Programming was available to elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools across the districts. Students and educators alike learned the importance of actively intervening to stop bullying and countering stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination. ADL’s anti-bias and bullying prevention programs help create a safe environment in which to explore behaviors associated with being an ally and engage in opportunities to develop skills to respond to bullying. Participants praised the program for its relevant material and its highly skilled and engaging ADL facilitators.
Following the programs, students in DSUSD middle and high schools shared:
“I believe you guys created a positive atmosphere and encouraged us to share our ideas. You brought new ideas to the table and challenged us in a way that we could be more open to speak up about bullying.”
“We as a whole have the ability to change our school and lives. It takes a few steps, a voice, and confidence.”
“Helping a person when they are getting bullied can change the person life.”
“Communication and participation are key to becoming an ally.”
“There are tons of people around you getting bullied and really hurting inside and we need to help, and treat people how they want to be treated.”
When asked about the two most important things they learned in the training, Palm Springs USD elementary students said:
“I learned that there are different ways to be an ally, and that you don’t have to do something really big to help.”
“To be kind, and make our school safe.”
Educators praised the environment and space they were given to discuss important topics at the table, and better learn how to connect with their co-workers and address students’ needs:
“It was great to get into the subject at hand, and be able to share our experiences fluidly and openly.”
“I learned more about vocabulary and additional content as a new teacher to deal with student diversities.”
“This came to us at a perfect time when our school culture is changing in a positive direction.”
“I learned some new things about my colleagues and their experience, which helps me be empathetic to them and understand them.”
If you are interested in bringing ADL programs to your school, please contact A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE® Institute Education Director Dave Reynolds at dreynolds@adl.org or (310) 446 – 8000. For free bullying anti-bias and prevention resources for students, families and school staff (available in English and Spanish), please click here.