Oklahoma program targets bullying in schools

(Oklahoma City-AP) -- More Oklahoma public school students are being bullied. <br/><br/>From 2000 to 2003, reports of bullying sent to the state Department of Education increased more than 37%. <br/><br/>State

Thursday, June 3rd 2004, 10:53 am

By: News On 6

(Oklahoma City-AP) -- More Oklahoma public school students are being bullied.

From 2000 to 2003, reports of bullying sent to the state Department of Education increased more than 37%.

State superintendent Sandy Garrett says the numbers are up mostly because educators have learned how to recognize and report bullying.

The Oklahoma Health Department and the state Education Department have created a campaign called ``Take A Stand. Lend A Hand. Stop Bullying Now!'' It's encouraging adults to stop students from bullying one another.

Bullying can lower students' self-esteem, lower their grades and cause depression. Both males and females bully.