Tomball Intermediate Students Learn to 'Strikeout Bullying' with Houston Astros and Orbit
Students at Tomball Intermediate School (TIS) recently participated in an engaging and impactful anti-bullying program, led by the Houston Astros organization and featuring the team’s beloved mascot, Orbit. The “Strikeout Bullying Show”, presented by Whataburger, delivered an interactive lesson aimed at educating students on the effects of bullying and equipping them with the tools to foster a culture of kindness and respect.
An Interactive Approach to a Serious Issue
With fifth and sixth graders beginning to navigate more complex social dynamics, TIS Principal Dr. Kelly Marchiando emphasized the importance of addressing bullying during these formative years. “Fifth and sixth grade are critical years when students begin navigating more complex social interactions, making it essential to equip them with the knowledge and tools to recognize, prevent, and address bullying,” said Dr. Marchiando.
The “Strikeout Bullying Show”, brought to TIS by the Tomball Intermediate PTO, focused on different forms of bullying—physical, verbal, and social—and how these actions can deeply impact a person’s emotional well-being. Students were encouraged to take the STOP Pledge, which stands for Standing up for one another, Telling an adult, Offering friendship, and Practicing respect.
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Through humorous skits, engaging storytelling, and crowd participation, Orbit and the program’s emcee helped students recognize harmful behaviors and understand how to become "upstanders" rather than bystanders in bullying situations.
Houston Astros and Orbit’s Commitment to Youth Outreach
The Houston Astros organization is widely recognized for its community outreach programs, particularly those aimed at empowering youth through education, leadership, and character-building initiatives. Programs like the “Strikeout Bullying Show” extend beyond the baseball field to promote positive social values and encourage young students to support one another.
Orbit, the Astros’ iconic green, fuzzy, and fun-loving mascot, plays a central role in these initiatives. While he’s best known for entertaining fans at Daikin Park, Orbit also serves as an ambassador for youth programs, anti-bullying campaigns, and literacy efforts across the Greater Houston area.
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Empowering Students to Make a Difference
By the end of the high-energy presentation, students walked away with a stronger understanding of how their words and actions impact others. The goal of the event was to foster empathy, encourage positive peer interactions, and promote a school culture rooted in kindness and inclusivity.
“By fostering empathy, encouraging positive peer interactions, and promoting a culture of kindness, we hope students walk away empowered to be upstanders who help create a safe and supportive school environment,” said Dr. Marchiando.
A Continued Effort to Create a Bully-Free Environment
With bullying prevention remaining a top priority in schools nationwide, programs like "Strikeout Bullying" provide students with the resources and encouragement to take proactive steps toward kindness and inclusion.
Through initiatives like these, the message is clear: standing up against bullying is a team effort, and everyone has a role to play in fostering a positive school culture.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
