I would like to take a moment to focus on a very important word. That word is harassment. The very definition of the word is depressing: to worry someone by repeated attacks, to tire out, to trouble, to annoy continually, to badger. Oftentimes, we think our words are meaningless and without power. I often hear “oh, I was just joking,” or “I didn’t mean to hurt anybody” or “she/he does it all the time to me” or “everybody says stuff like that.” Could you be the one that is different and refuses to attack someone with your words? Could you be the one that refuses to take sides in an argument? Could you be known as the one who builds people up instead of tearing them down? Could you be the one who stops a rumor by refusing to spread it? These are all difficult challenges for both students and adults. Can you imagine the positive difference that would overwhelm Edison if we as a school refused to attack with our words by harassment, by put-downs and by gossip and rumors? Could this start with you?

 The Snake that Poisons Everybody

It topples governments, wrecks marriages, ruins careers, destroys reputations, causes heartaches, nightmares, indigestion; produces suspicion, gives grief, causes innocent people to cry in their pillows. Even its name hisses. It’s called gossip. Office gossip, shop gossip, party gossip, school gossip. It makes headlines and headaches. Before you repeat a story, ask yourself: Is it true? Is it fair? Is it necessary? Is it kind? If not, don’t say a word.

PEER TUTORS

A big thank you to several Edison students who are volunteering their time to be peer tutors. During enrichment time, the tutors are matched up with another junior high student in order to help get work completed, help with organizational skills and help raise grades. We have seen much success this year as these students seek to support their fellow classmates.

The peer tutors include: