On Thursday, we had the pleasure of learning about an anti-bullying pledge made by Daisy Girl Scouts in the new Troop 16845, which is made up of six children who are in kindergarten and first grade at schools in the Butler Area School District.

“I am a kid against bullying, and I will speak when I see bullying. I will be a friend when I see bullying,” said 7-year-old Sophia Gibson as she took her oath.

Troop leaders wanted to address bullying with the Scouts because it has been an issue in schools. According to PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center, students who experience bullying are at increased risk for depression, anxiety, sleep difficulties, lower academic achievement and dropping out of school.

With reports of behavioral issues close to home and out of state that are increasing these risks, leaders are being proactive in instilling these ideals in children when they are at a formative stage in their development.

This is when certain memories and effects have the potential to truly begin to shape a person. It may be a moment that stands out in sharp clarity in their minds later in life, even if it happens to be decades down the road.

Amanda Gibson, troop leader, pointed out that the Scouts are already devoted to their cause.

“The girls are working to get this anti-bullying event into full swing and want to work on a video, their own troop-made poster and packets to send out to all the school districts,” Gibson said. “This is a group of six girls really devoted to making a difference in Butler. Their love and enthusiasm is so much bigger than they are.”

The passion these Scouts exhibit at such a young age is heartening, and theirs is an important lesson to teach your children.

We commend the leaders on the organization of the anti-bullying event and hope the girls meet their goals.

— CM