Making School a Positive Place Series

 In this engaging series, internationally renowned youth speaker Anthony McLean leads a group of students in grades 5 through 8 in a discussion about friendships, competition and inclusion. Anthony invites the students to reflect on how “harmless teasing” and competitiveness can impact their friendships. Students are encouraged to make their own commitments, choosing things they can do every week to make their classroom and school a more positive place. This series also features a special performance of Anthony’s original song, “Don’t Go There”, as well as interviews with experts and community leaders.

Series includes:

Friendship Matters

What does a good friend look like? We can’t always be friends with everyone, but we can always be friendly.

Too Much Competition

Recess should be fun. When games are full of put-downs and criticisms, it’s not a normal part of being competitive, it’s mean.  

Dealing with Mean People

Mean people are everywhere; how do you handle them? It’s best not to take their negativity to heart. Believe in yourself and surround yourself with people who believe in you too!

How to Help a Friend

Bystanders have so much power in a bullying situation! They can tell the bully to stop; they can reach out and support the victim; or, if the situation is really serious, they can get help.

Too Much Drama

Gossip and rumours create a toxic environment! If you wouldn’t say it to someone’s face, don’t say it behind their back! 

Too Much Teasing

‘Don’t Go There’ zones!  Using his original song, “Don’t Go There!”, Anthony uses music to make his message about teasing memorable for kids.

Trouble with Social Media

Think before you click. It’s easy to hide behind a screen and write nasty comments, but you probably wouldn’t say it in person. Being a kind person includes what you say online.