Two Plano police officers will present a program about bullying Thursday morning at Wortham elementary school.

“Be Buddies, Not Bullies” is set for two sessions, at 8:30 a.m. and 9:30 a.m.

Officers Christopher Bianez and Lindy Privett, founders of the Strengthen our Youth Foundation, believe that effective youth programs must not only inform, but also must entertain.

To capture students’ attention, the officers combine martial arts and tram- poline stunts with tips for a bully-free school.

The “Be Buddies, Not Bullies” program encourages students to treat each other with kindness and respect, and reinforces that everyone has a responsibility in keeping his or her school safe.

Students learn that although stopping a bully may not always be easy, it is important to have an attitude of respect toward others, exhibit the behavior of a buddy and make a commitment to not bully others or allow themselves to be bullied.

The program is presented courtesy of a grant provided by Encana Oil and Gas, which has operations in Freestone, Leon and Robertson counties.

“The response we’ve received from teachers and counselors who love this program and who want us to repeat it has been overwhelming,” Deborah West, Encana community relations liaison, says.

Officers Bianez and Privett present a variety of youth-focused topics through Strengthen Our Youth Foundation.

Together they have move than three decades combined law enforcement and public speaking experience.

Over the past five years, they have shared their programs with more than 250,000 students.