The assemblies were made possible through the generosity of Home State Bank and Jefferson Telecom. Their sponsorship ensured that students and families had access to high-quality, prevention-focused education. Their support reflects a strong commitment to student well-being and the long-term health of the Jefferson community.

A Speaker Making an Entertaining Difference

What made these assemblies especially effective was the delivery.  Nationally recognized bullying prevention assembly speaker Robert Hackenson Jr. combines research-backed content with magic and illusion.  As a result, students stayed fully engaged while absorbing meaningful lessons that went far beyond a traditional lecture format.  The presentation content and delivery also adapted to the different audience levels.  

Elementary Students: Building Emotional Awareness Early

At the elementary level, the focus was on helping students understand their emotions and behavior. Through age-appropriate stories, visuals, and interactive moments, students learned how to recognize and manage big emotions.  They understand the difference between bullying, conflict, and teasing.  Most importantly they know what to do if they are being bullied—or witness someone else being targeted.

These interactive bullying prevention programs for schools emphasized confidence, empathy, and speaking up—skills that form the foundation of a positive school culture.

Middle & High School Students: Respect, Conflict, and Digital Responsibility

For middle and high school students, the conversation expanded to reflect real-life challenges. Presentations explored respectful behavior both in person and online, how to have conversations instead of debates when opinions differ, practical conflict resolution strategies, and the real-world consequences of bullying and cyberbullying.

Partnering With Parents for Lasting Impact

Because prevention doesn’t stop when the school day ends, an evening parent education night was a vital component of these school bullying education assemblies in Iowa. Parents experienced the same presentation their children saw, plus additional guidance for reinforcing these messages at home.

Below is a recorded version of the parent night presentation.  Access it with the code provided by the school.  There are also links to trusted resources for families.