By Chrissy Carter    Contributing Writer

EDGARD – West St. John High School recently ended their “Anti-Bullying Week” with a powerful talk from St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff Mike Tregre.             

“Police officers and children should be able to speak to each other openly. Whether you are a victim of bullying or see it first hand, you should be able to talk to a police officer about it,” said Tregre.

The week-long campaign was designed to make students aware of bullying and how to stand up against it. Principal Erica Merrick and Interim School Counselor Bonnie Allgood worked together to organize the weeklong events.     

“The students made anti-bullying signs, and we started a ‘Caught You Being Caring’ system, where we award students for their positive actions,” said Merrick.          

Tregre spoke about the effects of bullying and how it can be handled and uplifted the school by complimenting them on their hospitality.     

“Every time I visit your school I am treated with respect, and students are polite and very courteous,” said Tregre.     

The lecture ended with Tregre picking the winners of the Caught You Being Caring contest and awarded each of them with a $20 Wal-Mart gift card.

Winners included Laterence Mitchell Jr., Marvin Pierre and Wonzell Dumas.