Stopping Bullying: Students Pledge "Not In My School."

Rockford- Michael McDermott, a Belvidere High School graduate travels the country giving anti-bullying talks. He uses videos, celebrities and music to capture the attention of students getting kids to stand up for themselves and others.

President of Bully Proof USA Michael McDermott explains "it's not just like I have to deal with it at school and then I go home. Not anymore."

McDermott is referring to technology like mass text messaging, Facebook and camera phones. He explains no other generation has had to learn how to manage social media.     

"Social media itself the technology wave that we're in today this type of power is in the hands of these young people and they're using it. And they're either going to use it for the good or they're going to use it for the bad," says McDermott.

That's where teachers try to intervene. Making sure kids don't make bullying a habit.

Beyer Elementary School Teacher Mandy Andrus says "most of the bullying takes place during the unstructured times recess, lunchroom really when they have a little bit more freedom."

She says parents must teach kids non-violent strategies.  Andrus mentions "be familiar with the teacher and some of the other students, talking to your children about things that are happening at school."

Having parents teach positive behaviors at home that are reinforced at school is crucial. Like today's presentation it's just one way educators  hope to drive bullying out of schools for good.

Bully Proof USA will be giving presentations in many area districts. Tomorrow they're headed to Harlem Middle School where more than 600 kids will take part.