"Can You Hear me?" Bullying Prevention and Education

We will be producing a documentary, PSA and visual campaign to promote anti-bullying behaviour among teens. The documentary will consist of "testimonials" from students and adults about the effects of bullying and what can be done to help. Our hope is to share this information with the public.

Update (April 29, 2011)

So far we have completed all filming for the project and the editing process has begun. There has been a slight change to the comunity partners, as one group, Bullying Canada ended up not being the best "fit". Instead, I will be meeting with the national marketing Director of Kids Help Phone about the possibility of airing the commericals. We have completed filming on 3 commericals, each dealing with a different form of bulying. A 7-10 minute short film has also been completed which contains the testimony of students. The day of filming was an emotional day for many, bringing members of the student body closer together in their shared experiences. In speaking with parents and faculty members,it is obvious that even before the public release of the videos dialogue about bullying has occured in classrooms as well as around dinner tables.

Update (June 17, 2011)

As the school year comes to a close, I am reflecting on the impact that the Anti-Bullying videos have made. This project had supassed any expectations that I may have had. Despite some difficulties with scheduling the film crew and students, we were able to complete the videos in time for the end of the school year.
Just the other day, a student whom I have never taught came to me and thanked me. He said that it was through showing the videos to his parents via Youtube that he was able to have a discussion with them about the bullying that he has been enduring. This powerful conversation has led to action being taken and hopefully an end to the fear and shame felt by the victim.
I want to thank you for supporting me in this project.