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Implementing a Bullying Prevention Program
Is bullying a problem in your school? In many cases, administrators who assess bullying issues in their schools find that it is a bigger problem than they realized. If you're in doubt, follow these steps to assess school bullying and determine the commitment of your teachers and staff to bullying prevention.
Assess Bullying Prevention Needs and Commitment
- Form a school-based Bullying Prevention Coordinating Committee. This small group of energetic teachers, parents, community members, administrators, counselors and other staff can help explore the problem and potential anti-
bullying solutions.
- Administer an anonymous student questionnaire to grades 3 and higher to assess the nature, extent, and locations of bullying. Use a validated survey such as the Olweus Bullying Questionnaire.
- Talk to staff members about their perceptions of bullying in your school, their current efforts to address bullying, and their time and motivation to implement a bullying prevention program.
- Hold an open house or a PTA meeting to solicit parent interest about bullying behaviors and bullying prevention needs at your school.
Research Bullying Prevention Programs
The most effective way to address bullying is with a comprehensive, research-based schoolwide bullying prevention program. Make the decision to create a safer environment for your students and staff by choosing a bullying prevention program.
Take These Anti-bullying Steps at Your School with the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program
- Provide in-service training about bullying and include non-teaching staff members who interact with students.
- Develop, post, and discuss rules and sanctions related to bullying.
- Reward students for positive, inclusive behavior.
- Increase supervision in "hot spots" for bullying and violence in your schools.
- Establish a confidential reporting system.
- Ensure that legally required grievance procedures for bullying and harassment are in place and known to parents, students, and staff.
- Listen to parents and students who report bullying. Quickly and effectively resolve the issue to avoid perpetuation of bullying.
- Ensure all staff members take immediate action when bullying is observed.
- Notify parents of all involved students when a bullying incident occurs, and resolve the problem expeditiously at school.
- Refer students affected by bullying to school counseling or mental health staff.
- Protect students who are bullied with a buddy system.
- Encourage teachers to hold class meetings during which students can talk about bullying and peer relations.
- Provide information to parents about bullying and encourage their involvement in addressing bullying issues.
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