Last week was really special for me. I had the opportunity to take my program back to the district I grew up in. I had the pleasure of working with the talented students in the West Windsor-Plainsboro School District at Grover Middle School. When I went through the district, it was a place where I could challenge myself, learn about myself, and explore dozens of options to expand my many interests. I could see from the second I met this group, that WW-P has continued to offer its students wonderful opportunities to develop into confident and articulate people. This group had a lot to say (about everything:) but also had some poignant comments regarding the bullying situation in their building. 

On performance day, I must say that I was blown away by the theatricality of the production they produced. The victims especially were so powerful in their delivery and really made a connection with each member of the audience. Students and staff alike were silent as all these actors said their lines emphatically and with dramatic intensity. It was a joy to watch. Having had the opportunity to practice in front of the parents the night before gave them more confidence going into their peer performances. The debriefing sessions that followed were even more powerful. Students were sharing their struggles with bullying and opening the eyes of their classmates. One particular boy challenged me by asking why they continue to have bully prevention assemblies. I turned the question back to him asking why the message hasn’t been heeded thus far. After a bit of discussion, we got to the idea that everyone thinks that their one voice is not going to make a difference. So I told him, “I am one voice.” I wanted him to realize that, as one person, I have decided to try and make others aware of how powerfully positive their words can be. Each actor in the performance is one person who can influence their friends in a positive way to make choices that affect their peers. I challenged him to be the one person in his group of friends who finally decides they are not going to sit and watch anymore. They are not going to let other people get away with making some kids feel terrible about themselves. It is only when each individual realizes the power of their one voice that things will start to change.

Breajsha, Austin, Devon, Griffin, Melodi, Jenna, Matt, Paco, Angela, Dan, Brian, Allie, Edlyn, Danielle, Jason, Ryan, Maddy, Ricky, Ryan, Anchal, Ravia, and Joey…you guys were such a pleasure to work with. You demonstrated not only powerful speaking talent, but great character as you guided your classmates to make better decisions. I truly hope that you continue the movement you started last week and exemplify the words you said in the performances and the debriefing sessions. You have such an opportunity to be the change – challenge yourself to keep making a difference by being a positive force.