On Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2013, during an anti-bullying assembly, star Raven running back Ray Rice made a special appearance to talk to the school about his experiences with bullying. Rice talked with the entire student body in an assembly as well as private groups, the Varsity Football team and the Best Buddies organization.

After messages from Principal Gregory Komondor, Counselor Bruce Riley, Ms. Campbell with Peer Helpers, and Ms. Jansen with Best Buddies, Rice came in and stole the show.

Building off of the ideas presented before him, Rice talked about his experiences with bullying and general respect in high school. As Rice made clear, he was, “keeping it real,” with the students. “Keeping it real,” meant that Rice openly told students that he was never bullied in school. “Was I ever bullied? No. I was the guy in high school. I was the athlete. I got along with everybody.” He then went on to talk about the good he did with that opportunity. “I was the guy who broke all the barriers.” He made everyone his friend because he was well liked. He used his position of public approval to his advantage.

He also stressed the value of family and team in a community, especially a high school. He told the students that this is the time of their life in which they will be most loved and appreciated. “When I go home, I am going to where I feel the most love.” He wanted the Bel Air community to feel the same.

Rice ended with his most valued life lesson. “Who you are as a person is who you are when no one is watching. When I’m in the weight room at 5:30 in the morning, I don’t need an audience.”

Students will remember this event for a long time. The entire packed gymnasium was in complete shock to see Rice walked in. Despite his celebrity presence, the real reason Rice came was to make the school a better place. Students will remember his overall message of kindness, compassion, and comradery.