National Bullying Prevention Month

by Yoyo, 8th grade

Although October is best known for falling leaves, pumpkins, and Halloween excitement, it is also National Bullying Prevention Month —a time to focus on a serious issue that affects countless students every day.

Created to spread awareness, spark action, and promote kindness, this month serves as a reminder that bullying remains a real and lasting problem, even in 2025.

According to the Anti-Bullying Alliance, bullying is the “repetitive, intentional hurting of one person or another by another person or group where the relationship involves an imbalance of power.” It can occur in various forms: verbally, physically, or online. Bullying can take a grave toll on everyone involved. Its effects range from anxiety and depression to substance use, and in some cases, even suicide.

The National Center for Education Statistics shares that one in every five students reports being bullied, and 5.4 million students skip school each day because of it. That is why efforts like National Bullying Prevention Month are so important– they raise awareness and encourage positive change.

October was first declared National Bullying Prevention Month in 2006 by PACER Center, an organization that works to improve education and quality of life for children and young adults. Since then, schools and communities have used October to promote empathy and kindness through events and activities.

For example, many people wear orange on Unity Day (the third or fourth Wednesday in October) to show support for bullying prevention. Schools host assemblies, lead activities, and create projects that focus on kindness, acceptance, and inclusion.

Communities also participate, organizing workshops, local events, and online campaigns that offer resources and spread the message. All of these efforts aim to create safer and more welcoming environments for students.

Bullying continues to be a major problem, but anyone can help make a difference. This October, take the opportunity to speak up. Your actions can help build a more supportive and inclusive school environment.

Finding Horizons Beyond Home

by Erin, 11th grade

Living in a quiet, peaceful and safe neighborhood in our wonderful city of Fullerton, I sometimes realize how much I take this for granted.

In the news, I see people struggling to survive war, quenching their thirst with just a few droplets of scarce water and battling piercing stares or insults just to open a book. I didn’t want to be a bystander, so I decided to do something about it.

I discovered Global CoLab, a virtual teen-led international network that is dedicated to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. Members join hubs based on what they’re most passionate about. These include the Plastics Hub, Zero Hunger Hub, Climate Hub, Equality Hub, and the Arts Hub, which I’m a part of. Participants come from all over the world, including countries like Cameroon, Turkey, Mexico and India. I was fortunate to join our UN delegation on a trip to the United Nationals headquarters in New York City!

Our founder, Linda, is the most passionate person I’ve ever met. She truly wants the best for us teens– to reach for the stars and embrace every opportunity to learn and grow. She’ll push through a crowd to make sure our voices are heard and will encourage us to network, even when we’re unsure how. She’ll even give you a tour of Washington, DC, while staying the night in her humble abode.

I’m so glad I clicked on Global CoLab’s Instagram profile, submitted my application and asked my parents if I could join the UN trip. All of this helped me see the world–and myself–through a different lens. I realized there’s a bigger world beyond the horizon of our everyday lives, and far more important than how your outfit looked today. So I encourage others to join our team of changemakers. Learn more at globalcolab.net.

World Habitat Day

by Mateo, 12th grade

According to the United Nations, 122 million people around the world are currently displaced from their homes due to global conflicts, climate change, and political unrest. This harrowing reality is further intensified by billions more who lack adequate shelter for similar reasons. World Habitat Day, observed on the first Monday of every October, draws attention to this growing crisis and encourages society to ensure that everyone has access to safe and secure housing.

World Habitat Day was established in 1985 by the United Nations to promote the human right to adequate housing. By providing people with a comfortable place to settle, the UN aimed to improve community outcomes and restore hope to those living in poverty. Over time, the day has grown to include efforts from international organizations like Habitat for Humanity, which help improve housing conditions in urban areas. The UN created the Habitat Scroll of Honour Award to incentivize support further. It is given annually to individuals and groups that exhibit “outstanding contributions to urban development.”

Each year, World Habitat Day highlights a specific theme related to housing. This year’s focus is on urban crisis response, addressing the growing pressure on cities from the influx of displaced people and refugees. The UN is working to identify and solve the most urgent issues in these areas.

If you want to participate, one of the best ways is by educating others about the day and its purpose. Understanding the problem is the first step to solving it. You can also volunteer your time to help build homes for those in need. Habitat for Humanity offers excellent opportunities for those interested in making a difference.

As homelessness continues to rise in the U.S. and global conflicts escalate, the right to shelter becomes increasingly urgent. World Habitat Day reminds us of the different living conditions people face and calls on us to contribute to the ongoing effort toward housing equality around the world.

Discipline for School

by Olive, 10th grade

School may be overwhelming, and it is easy to lose motivation. Motivation, however, does not last.

It is unreliable and fleeting, so instead of chasing it, I try to build discipline. Here are a few techniques that help me stay focused.

One way I stay on track is by setting goals. Whether it is finishing homework before the weekend or doing well on a quiz, hitting small goals builds confidence and gives you something to work toward.
Keeping a solid study routine also increases your discipline. Find a quiet space free of distractions, and try studying after school instead of late at night to improve focus.

Take regular breaks and reward yourself with something small, such as a snack. Studying in short, manageable sessions can make big workloads feel less intimidating.

If you are still struggling, try switching up your study space, working with a friend, or asking a parent or teacher to help keep you accountable. With the right mindset, staying disciplined is possible.