Bullying is common issue among youth in schools nationwide and throughout the state of Kentucky. According to the American Psychological Association, bullying is a form of aggressive behavior in which someone intentionally and repeatedly causes injury or discomfort. This can be through physical contact, verbal comments, emotional intimidation or cyberbullying. One out of five students report being bullied at school (National Center for Education Statistics, 2019).

When assessing the needs of Clay County, the Clay County Extension Council identified bullying as a major concern for our youth in the county. In response, the Clay County 4-H Agent collaborated with the school system to offer a bullying program for 3^rd-5^th graders.

Roughly 249 students participated in the Stop Bullying programs. Students gained more knowledge on how to identify bullying, types of bullying, recognizing signs of bullying and how to take action when bullying occurs. To conclude the program, students signed and made a pledge to stop bullying and created small posters to bring awareness.

Results concluding program revealed:

88 percent identified ways on how to take action if bullying occurs

90 percent of participants identified types of bullying-- cyberbullying, physical, isolation, etc. 

86 percent of participants recognized the signs of bullying such as change of behavior, withdrawing from activities and more

100 percent of participants created posters to display in their school and signed a pledge