The Shadow
LOW MOOR, Va. (VR) — The Alleghany Highlands School Board is recognizing October as
Bullying Prevention Month, joining the Virginia School Boards Association in raising
awareness about the serious and lasting impacts of bullying in schools.
Nearly 20 percent of youth in the U.S. are involved in bullying each year, either as
perpetrators or victims. Studies show that 10 percent of elementary schools, 28 percent
of middle schools, and 15 percent of high schools report bullying incidents at least
weekly. Bullying can take many forms, verbal, physical, or electronic, and can occur
both on and off school grounds.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, students who are bullied face higher risks
of depression, anxiety, sleep problems, decreased academic performance,
absenteeism, and dropping out. Bullying can also contribute to physical health
challenges and, in some cases, school violence.
In support of this, the Alleghany Highlands School Board encourages open
conversations about bullying throughout October and has developed a conduct policy to
promote respect, kindness, and positive interactions in schools.
Beyond these efforts, Alleghany Highlands Public Schools works year-round with
parents and students to teach courtesy, respect, and positive behavior, fostering a
consistently safe and supportive school community. These efforts are showing
measurable results: according to the 2025 Student Behavior and Administrative
Response data collection report to the Virginia Department of Education, Alleghany
Highlands Public Schools observed a 14 percent decrease in student misbehavior
compared to the previous school year.
A recent example of these lessons in action comes from Jordyn Kemper, a fourth grader
at Jeter-Watson Elementary School, who shared her thoughts on grace: “You have to
be kind to one another, and you have to stand up for other people who need help. If you
see someone holding books and there are too many, you can help them.”
Jordyn’s story illustrates that lessons about kindness and respect aren’t just learned in
class; they’re practiced every day.
When schools teach and model these values, they help create a place where every
student feels noticed, supported, and safe.
“Bullying affects our students’ safety, mental health, and academic success,” said
Jonathan Arritt, chair of the school board. “Recognizing Bullying Prevention Month helps
bring our community together to promote respect, empathy, and positive behavior in
schools.”
Stay connected with the AHPS community! Follow Alleghany Highlands Public Schools
on social media for the latest news, events, and stories celebrating students, staff, and
schools. You can find AHP Facebook at AHPublicSchools and Instagram at
ahpublicschools. To learn more and stay informed, visit the division website at
www.ahps.k12.va.us.
