From Jan. 27-31, Prodell Middle School students focused their attention on bully prevention during the student council-sponsored Spirit Week. Kicking off the five-day program was dynamic young pop rock band Reverse Order. The New Jersey-based group has a resume that boasts a Grammy nomination, numerous national tours and constant features on local and national television shows, including “America’s Got Talent.” They are also the founders of the Reverse the Trend anti-bullying program.

In between songs, each band member took turns talking to students about their personal experiences with bullying, how to generate positivity and the best ways to overcome challenging situations. They also introduced and discussed their original acronym – Passion, Attitude, Respect, Trust, Thoughtfulness, You (PARTTY) – to help students remember their key messages.  

“Change the changeable, accept the unchangeable and remove yourself from the unacceptable,” said lead singer John Russo-Zirkel. “Everything starts with you. If you want to see change, you have to be a part of change. You have to do what you can to make your school and your community a better place.”

Other themed days throughout the week, such as We All Rock Day, We All Count Day and School Pride Day, provided students with unique experiences and events to express their unity and commitment toward acceptance.  

“Here at Prodell, we are committed to bully prevention and support for our students,” said social worker Andrea Monz, who is also the school’s Dignity Act coordinator, NJHS facilitator and student council facilitator. “The student council has worked very hard to provide their peers with a week of activities to help prevent bullying while promoting good character.”