Hope Squad and Student Council Attend SLC Anti-Bullying Conference

Submitted by david.thacker on

The SFJHS Hope Squad and Student Council students attended an event on Wednesday at the Vivint Smart Home Arena that was hosted by the Utah Anti-Bullying Coalition.

The students were welcomed by the Utah Jazz Bear and the dunk and stunt team. The band “Foreign Figures” performed, and then students heard from three different speakers.

Clint Pulver shared his experiences growing up and encouraged everyone to choose to believe in yourself and others. Next, students heard from Ben Kjar who was born with Crouzon Syndrome, a genetic condition that causes facial deformities. While growing up, people made fun of him. He said he had two choices: to be a victim or a victor. He chose to be a victor and won state in wrestling three times in high school, and went on to wrestle  for UVU and the Olympics.

The last speaker was Rosalind Wiseman, author of Queen Bees and Wannabes.  She taught that every person is deserves dignity and respect in our schools, and encouraged every student to use their power to make at least one person’s life better.

Last, the students were excited for the surprise appearance by Lukas Graham who performed many of his hit songs. He also shared his experiences growing up in Denmark without indoor plumbing.  He talked about using your challenges to put a fire behind you and use it like rocket fuel to move ahead. He encouraged kids to light a light for someone else and it will in turn, light your own fire.

9th grade student Ali Woods said her favorite part was when the Foreign Figures talked about dealing with bullying while growing up and how they didn't let it stop them. Sydney Johnson (9th grade) liked hearing from Clint Pulver and that he said "Believe, don't bully."

This was an inspiring event and we're glad our hard working Student Council and Hope Squad students could participate!

 

Attributions
by Melissa Nielson