From Chocowinity Primary School

CHOCOWINITY — Jaunty hats, colorful socks and team jerseys were all part of a mission to raise awareness of bullying during a weeklong event held at Chocowinity Primary School.

October is recognized as National Bully Prevention month, and CPS students and staff designated Oct. 20-24 as a time to discuss and take a stand against bullying.

“In an effort to raise awareness of this issue, we hosted a bully prevention week at Chocowinity Primary School,” said school counselor Leslea Jones. “During the week, one fact about bullying was read each day over the intercom to help educate students and staff on the realities of bullying and how they can help fight against it. We also joined together by wearing different attire each day that represented a stand against bullying.”

The students kicked off the week on Monday by wearing sunglasses to school in order to “Shade Out Bullying.” Tuesday saw students and staff donning crazy, colorful socks to “Sock It to Bullying.”

Wednesday was nationally known as Unity Day and folks were encouraged to wear anything orange as they united together against bullying. “Team Up Against Bullying” was the theme for Thursday, with students wearing shirts in honor of their favorite teams, which ranged from local recreation leagues to college sports and professional teams. Friday saw the students “Put a Lid on Bullying” by wearing hats and caps to school.

Students throughout the school were eager to share the message.

“Don’t ever be a bully,” said third grader Keegan Welch. “Bullies are mean.”