SPCA of Wake to host free virtual violence and bullying prevention program for kids

The SPCA of Wake County will be offering free online bullying prevention classes for kids in third, fourth and fifth grades starting next week.

The hour-long No More Bullying! program runs from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. For third graders, it's scheduled for next week, May 18 to May 22. For fourth graders, it takes place May 25 to May 29. And for fifth graders, it runs June 1 to June 5. The program takes place via Zoom.

The cruelty and violence prevention program teaches elementary students responsibility, compassion, integrity, and the importance of treating living beings with care, according to a press release. Researchers have been studying the connection between various forms of violence for many years, the release says, and have found that bullying, domestic violence, and animal cruelty are linked in a deadly cycle.

"Studies show that people abused by people often abuse animals. People who abuse animals abuse people. And it is our goal to stop this endless cycle," says Molly Stone-Sapir, director of community initiatives for SPCA Wake, in the release.

During the virtual program, kids will learn how to recognize bullying and take safe and effective actions to stop it. During the program, they'll also practice the types of behaviors that can prevent bullying in the first place.

More information, including details on how to register, is on the SPCA's website.