FRANKLIN, N.H. — Franklin Middle School has put an end to an anti-bullying effort after a lesson intended to teach students not to say offensive or hurtful words used some of the very words they were being urged to avoid.

Superintendent Maureen Ward says the lesson teaches children not to use words such as “fat” and “ugly,” but it also used some words that students may have not previously known. The students were supposed to write the words down, discuss them, and shred the paper as a pledge they would never use them.

Ward tells WMUR-TV the principal walked in during the lesson and heard some “offensive and swear words” inappropriate in any context and halted the lesson.

Wards say the intent was good.

A letter was sent to parents Monday explaining the situation.


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