Bobcat Allies- WDHS is a student led organization committed to promoting a safe, welcoming environment for all members of the WDHS community. We strive to ensure that all who are a part of our community feel included and supported.
So often, students and adults alike, state that they are frequently in a position that makes them uncomfortable; they witness a bullying act but do not how who to properly respond. In this instance it is not uncommon for bystanders (any person who witnesses an act of bullying, but is not directly involved) to not intervene. This observation has prompted the students involved in Bobcat Allies to formulate a solution to this problem.
In order to meet our goal, we find it to be crucial to have open discussion with students and faculty alike. We have found that providing people with the opportunity to confront bullying/harassment issues in a protected environment, builds confidence and willingness to confront the issues that take away from our sense of unity. This goal is accomplished through the work of Forum Theater. Originally developed by Augusto Boal, Theater of the Oppressed confronts social issues and provides the framework for discussion based learning.
"In violence we forget who we are." -- Mary McCarthy
Community Reactions to Bobcat Allies work:
"Thank you so much for the terrific job you did with the third and fourth-grade students at Dyersville and Peosta. I know that they have gained knowledge and practice on how to avoid peer conflict and bullying. They’ll be excellent Upstanders. I appreciate that the Bobcat Allies are excellent role-models for our younger Bobcats." - Lynne Plisek, Guidance Counselor WDCSD
"Bobcat Allies ROCK! I can't wait for them to come back again!" -- 4th grade student, Epworth Elementary
"We just had a group of students come to school with Michele Bowles and present their Bobcat Allies skits. It was very well done! They did an exceptional job with explaining peer conflict and bullying. They had the students attention and it fit in very well with things that the students are dealing with every day! I’m so glad they came, and I’m excited for them to come back in a few weeks. Well done!" -- Melissa Feldmann, 4th grade teacher, Farley Elementary
"The Bobcat Allies presented to the FES 4th and 3rd graders this AM. They were fantastic. They were very well prepared. Their whiteboard visuals helped engage the students. The skits and activities were perfect! Can’t wait to have them at EES on Wednesday!"-- Rose Meisch, Guidance Counselor WDCSD
"Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle." Plato