News of the bullying case and arrest of seven students at Central Valley High School prompted officials at Ceres High School to put on an anti-bullying event on Thursday.

The Army National Guard brought a trailer to the campus to not only conduct an anti-bullying video and PowerPoint presentation but provide students with information about the Armed Forces and ways to get college paid for. Inside Sgt. 1st Class Johnny Caldwell spoke about options for students.

The Army's presentation included examples of bullying:

• Verbal harassment, such as being called names, put down, threatened, teased or sexual innuendo;

• Physical, such as being pynches, tripped, kicked or having belongings stolen. Also may include groping;

• Social bullying, such as being ignored, intentionally left out or having rumors spread about you.

• Psychological bullying, such as being given dirty looks or stalked, or made to feel manipulated.

• Cyberbullying, such as bullying through social media, texts or chat rooms.

The day-long event featured a EOD robotics demonstration.
Manufacturing Academy teacher Chris Van Meter said his school seems to be more proactive about preventing bullying and offers more contact with students than at CVHS where he previously worked.

"We have a fantastic community here," he said. "The staff is open and friendly and cares about the students."

While both schools have roughly the same student population, Ceres High's smaller plant size means there is more student interaction with one another and staff.
The Ceres Unified School District's website has information on bullying.

Tips for parents about their children possibly being bullied but not speaking up on it include:

• Comes home with torn, damaged, or missing pieces of clothing, books, or other belongings;

• Has unexplained cuts, bruises, and scratches;

• Has few, if any friends, with whom he or she spends time;

• Seems afraid of going to school, walking to and from school, riding the school bus, or taking part in organized activities with peers (such as clubs);

• Takes a long, "illogical" route when walking to or from school;

• Has lost interest in school work or suddenly begins to do poorly in school;

• Appears sad, moody, teary, or depressed when he or she comes home;

• Complains frequently of headaches, stomachaches, or other physical ailments;

• Has trouble sleeping or has frequent bad dreams.
• Experiences a loss of appetite;

• Appears anxious and suffers from low self-esteem.