Friday morning bullies were “stomped out” of Pike County Elementary during the Stomp Out Bullying Rally, ending the week-long campaign against bullying in school.

“For us it’s all about our children feeling safe,” said Anita Grant, assistant principle. “The kids hear a lot about bullying and this is something that gave them an idea of what to do about it and to know what to do before it happens.”

Students have been participating in activities to learn about bullying and what measures to take to avoid a situation with bullies. Organizer and teacher Stephanie Tucker on Friday declared the week, and the rally, a success. “I feel the kids caught the message and enjoyed themselves,” said Tucker.

Guest speakers for the rally were Officer Sapp from the Brundidge police department, Karen Boyd a prevention educator, the drumline from Pike County High School, and the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity of Troy University.

Officer Sapp discussed the consequences of bullying as he walked around the gym allowing children to ask questions. One student inquired if Officer Sapp had ever been bullied he replied “No, but if I had I would have told someone.” Sapp explained that bullying can lead to other things and can land someone in jail.

“When a child doesn’t want to come to school because they are sick and tired of bullying that’s a problem,” Boyd said. “There is nothing funny about bullying.”

“I liked the Rally. It was good because it taught people who didn’t know what bullying was about it and why we shouldn’t do it,” said student Madison Whitehead.

Grant said the purpose of the week and the rally was to help the children feel safe. “ We want them to come to us and let us know what’s going on and that was the whole point of having this rally,” Grant said.