St. Joseph's school was a sea of pink by the end of the day March 27 after everyone had the chance to create their own anti-bullying message. Photo submitted

St Joseph’s School took a stand against bullying by participating in a Pink Shirt Day March 27.

“With two generous donations from our Port Elgin community we were able to outfit each student with their own pink t-shirt. A big thank you to Mike at Giant Tiger and to the former Dunblane and Turner, now South Paw,” said Lisa Marshall, Co-chair of Parent Council for St Joseph’s School.

On March 27 a few members of the Parent Council team held an informal workshop where students had the opportunity to decorate their shirts with anti-bullying and kindness slogans, said Marshall. “All students from JK to Grade 8 took part making it a very inclusive activity. It was a fun day to learn about what it means to choose kindness and to look out for each other,” she added.

Marshall said that the team will also be introducing a Buddy Bench at the school. “The Buddy Bench is a simple idea to eliminate loneliness and foster friendship on the playground,” she explained. The Buddy Bench is where kids who are looking for playmates can go and sit to signal that they would like someone to come and invite them to play. “For many students, recess is often the best part of the school day, but for others, it can be a lonely time,” said Marshall, adding that the bench will be painted in St Joseph’s school colours.

Grade 6 students Yiorgo (left) and Rhys were having fun thinking of anti bullying ideas for their shirts March 27 at St Joseph’s School.

With markers in hand, (left to right) Audry (9), Jude (8), and Katie (9) were busy decorating their pink shirts.

Nine year old Aaron (left) and Eric (10) were getting creative with their shirts, March 27.

It was all about being kind to others for Grade 4 students (left to right) Lybia, Aspynne and Emmily as they prepared their pink shirts with some inspirational messages.

Members of the St Joseph's Parent Council and organizers of Pink Shirt Day, from left, Katie Cremasco, Lisa Marshall, Shannon Quennell and Tracey Shantz.

With quotes on the walls, t-shirts and an range of materials for decorating, St Joseph's Parent Council members came prepared to help the students give a strong message. Photo submitted