Bronxville Elementary Students Take the Lead in “UnMake a Bully” Project

Over the course of two weeks, Bronxville Elementary School fourth grade students took on the roles of writers, directors, producers and actors as part of the DON’T WAIT to UnMake a Bully project, a learning program that empowers students to address bullying through filmmaking. 

Working alongside filmmaker and educator Mike Feuerstein, creator of the DON’T WAIT program, students used professional quality camera equipment and learned how a real movie set operates. Each student selected a role, from directing and acting to sound and slate, and worked collaboratively to bring their vision to life.  

Before filming began, students engaged in thoughtful discussions about the difference between bullying and everyday social conflict. Through guided conversations and teamwork, each class brainstormed ideas, shared personal experiences and wrote public service announcement scripts focused on standing up against bullying and supporting one another. 

The project emphasized student voice and ownership throughout the process. Rather than following a predetermined script, students were encouraged to lead, problem solve and make creative decisions together, fostering independence and collaboration.  

“Making a movie is way more complicated than I thought,” said fourth grader Aron. “You have to do your own part and try your best so that the movie will be a complete success.” 

Through the filmmaking process, students were able to synthesize what they learned in a meaningful way. Creating the PSAs helped make them personal connections to the topic, deepened their understanding of empathy and accountability, and practice communicating powerful messages through the media.  

The DON’T WAIT to UnMake a Bully project highlights the importance of taking active steps to prevent bullying and reinforces the idea that students can be agents of positive change. By combining creativity, collaboration and social emotional learning, the experience left students with both new skills and a stronger sense of responsibility toward their school community. 

The DON’T WAIT to UnMake a Bully project was made possible through the generous support of the Bronxville PTA.