Bullying is wrong. Period.
Teaching Our Kids Not to Be Bystanders to Bullying
It is never “okay”. But it does happen and each one of us is responsible for how we respond.

In an excerpt from his book, The Bullying Breakthrough, Jonathan McKee defines a bystander as someone who watches and does nothing. The problem is that bystanders hurt others just the same. It’s a sin of omission. Bystanders know they should probably do something, but they don’t.

Jonathan McKee believes bystanders don’t need to do what their name implies: stand by. They can stand up and do something. In fact, he argues that we can help our kids truly make a bullying breakthrough by teaching them the 5 Rs:

  1. Recognize the effects of bullying. Many bystanders have never paused to think through the ramifications of laughing at someone, teasing them … or watching and doing nothing.
  2. Realize you can make a huge impact. One kid can make a huge difference. Really. Just one.
  3. Resolve not to bully others. Compassion with action is nothing. Resolve is the decision to take actions.
  4. Refuse to join in. Bullies thrive on attention and affirmation. Give them neither.
  5. Bystanders must learn to avoid:

    • Laughing at jokes at the expense of others.
    • Listening to rumors, gossip, or hate speech from anyone.
    • Physically standing with a group that is mocking or gossiping about other.

    If bullies don’t receive any affirmation or attention, they’ll usually stop.

  6. Reach out to someone who is hurting or alone. It’s amazing what simple acts of kindness can do.

Please share the 5 Rs with your son or daughter. We can all make a difference at OCS if we choose to “stand up” and not “stand by.”

If you would like to read more, the entire excerpt can be found at the link below:

https://www.familylife.com/articles/topics/parenting/foundations/character-development/teaching-our-kids-not-to-be-bystanders-to-bullying/

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Alyssa Edward
Alyssa Edward

Just left us a 5 star review

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Alyssa Edward
February 22, 2023

OCS has been fantastic for our family and our children. Our kids are learning so much, and they feel safe in an amazing school environment.

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Beth Amy
February 13, 2023

Our kids love OCS and we really appreciate how personable and community oriented the school is. Our son struggled with being behind in some classes and within a week of starting they had identified and set him up with an in school tutor and it made a massive difference.

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Christine Kennedy
February 12, 2023

We are thrilled with OCS. The environment, the classroom, the content, and the experiences they provide demonstrate a deep care and love for each and every student. Truly so thankful for how they are equipping and building up the next generation.

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Becky Prins
February 10, 2023

We feel incredibly blessed to have an option like OCS for our children to attend! Teachers are amazing, and while always striving to provide excellent academic challenges and incorporate new experiences, they also actually care about my kids. They encourage, correct, and connect with love and intentionality. The facilities are awesome as well and we are especially excited about this year's school play! Thank you for all you do OCS!

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Julia G
February 10, 2023

OCS is everything a school should be, and so much more. Their priority is the wellbeing of the students and this is evident in how the students are nurtured and cared for. OCS offers rich programming and curriculum to ensure that the needs of all students are met. The educators are extremely knowledgeable and work tirelessly for the benefit of all students. I am impressed daily by how happy my daughter is to attend school and the depth of knowledge and quality of work that she brings home. OCS is not only preparing students to be higher level thinkers and problem solvers, it is instilling core values of kindess and empathy within it's students. I cannot imagine a better place for my daughter to embark on her educational journey.

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Cheryl Birch
February 9, 2023

We have had students enrolled at OCS from 2015 to 2023. Every single year we have been so thankful to have fabulous and approachable teachers. We're so appreciative of the affirmation of identity and God's love that our kids receive at OCS. We have found the math curriculum and individual monitoring of academic progress to be much improved at OCS from what we experienced in the public school system. The sports and music programs are excellent. We have greatly enjoyed the love of reading developed by the Battle of the Books club, and other initiatives at OCS, that we feel have given our kids an advantage in their preparation for high school.

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Wayne Johnson
February 9, 2023

We, as a family, had no problem posting a review for OCS!!! Our journey there began in September/2014 when our grandson was enrolled in JK. His experience there was positive in every aspect…academically, socially and spiritually. Eventually, Wayne began working there in a maintenance position and Judy as both an EA and supply teacher. Although we have both retired, Wayne continues to volunteer on the maintenance committee and Judy as supply. We plan to continue supporting OCS to the best of our abilities in the future!!!

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Greg Bennett
February 9, 2023
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Suzy Koolen
February 9, 2023

My daughter loves OCS. The staff and fellow students have been very welcoming as she joined half way through the year. My daughter is finally receiving a quality education. Highly recommend!

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Steve Koolen
February 9, 2023

Very friendly and welcoming staff and students. Small class sizes for better learning. My daughter was miserable at her old school, and is now back to her happy self at Orangeville Christian School.

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Erika F
February 9, 2023

OCS has been incredible for our 3 children who started this year. I couldn’t be happier with our experience. The teachers are caring and attentive and take the time to get to know each student individually. The academic program has been challenging and rewarding and we have seen so much growth in all our children. The environment feels safe and is community based and the school offers a wide range of activities for the children and their families. Overall, I am extremely impressed by the commitment to excellence that is evident at this school and would highly recommend it to other parents.

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Robyn Johnstone
October 7, 2020

OCS is more than just a school, it is a community and a family where parents truly are partners in the education of their children! We feel truly blessed to have our two children here! The teachers are amazing and the facility itself is top notch!

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Sunny G
February 7, 2020
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Skye W
April 11, 2019

Been here, great place. I recommend it.

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wP SK
December 1, 2017
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Jackie Tucker
September 13, 2017

Great school, teachers very intuitive of the students, great one on one time.

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Siobhan Bell
August 12, 2017

Excellent teachers, caring and supportive school family. Top notch academics!

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Reg Walker
April 19, 2017

Great facilities