Pioneer Tech students discuss self defense and bullying

Self-defense expert Chris Hand recently trained Pioneer Technology Center students in the methods of self-defense and empowerment so they can become bully proof in the future.

Hand is working to make it socially acceptable to “take up” for others, teaching children and young adults to stand in the gap for others.

“I have a core group of youth working now with me and we are developing ‘neutral mediators’ made up of students who try to understand both sides of any bullying or argumentative situation. They are trying to work problems out. So far the results are amazing,” Hand said.

“We as adults may think we know what they are going through but truth is we really have no idea the depth of it,” he said. “I noticed that both morning and afternoon students felt like the adults in their lives weren’t hearing them. Several stated they report issues, but it tends to get blown off and there is no follow-up.”

Hand began with defining what self-defense is and when students should use it. He then demonstrated different techniques.

“I liked how he interacted with us and allowed us to practice the moves instead of sitting down the whole time," one student said. "It was great.”

Hand answered questions in regards to kidnapping, bullying and many other situations that teens and young adults find themselves in today. He spoke of circumstances of bullying between students, between teachers and students and lastly students and teachers.

Instructors noticed right away that students were opening up and were surprised that someone in the community was interested in supporting them if they had been terrorized by someone else. Students from the Health Career Certifications program, the Biomedical Sciences Academy and Cosmetology participated.

Founded in 1973, Pioneer Tech has had over 41 years of assisting students and businesses in Kay County. For more about the programs provided at Pioneer Tech or to enroll call 580-718-4234 or visit www.pioneertech.edu .

Chris Hand, self-defense expert, trained Pioneer Technology Center students in the methods of self-defense and empowerment so they can become bully proof in the future. Pictured from left, back row, Brenda Bennett, instructor; Kailey Feathers, Ponca City; Adrianne Brown, Ponca City; Courtney Engle, Blackwell; Morgan Malone, Newkirk; Mayra Navarro, Ponca City; Erica Marek, Ponca City; Kristin Smith, Ponca City; Reigna Campbell, Ponca City; Victoria Malone, Newkirk; Brittany Lawrence, Newkirk; Jessica West, Blackwell; Moriah Buffalohead, Ponca City; Tishona Walker, Ponca City; Jamie Todd, Ponca City; Madison Riddle, Newkirk; and Mia Sweetman, instructor. Front row, Adam Gomez, Ponca City; Morgan McCune, Ponca City; Shalee Ache, Newkirk; Vianey Berumen, Ponca City; Cheyenne Van Zandt, Ponca City; Chris Hand, Self-Defense Expert; Hannah Guinn, Ponca City; Victoria Thurman, Ponca City; Chloe Ross, Ponca City; Brittany Sharp, Ponca City; and Vicki Mallory, Teaching Assistant.