Bullying

Schools can also create their own bully prevention programs. The first step is to create a survey to assess the amount of bullying and where it is taking place. While many schools use a questionnaire others may use a map of the playground or campus on which students mark areas where bullying is prevalent. From the information gained from the survey the school can create an anti-bullying committee in which students are active participants as well as teachers, staff, and parents. This could then lead to anti-bullying lessons for the student body, parent meetings and articles in the school newsletter to help the school spread the anti-bullying message, and clear procedures for staff to follow if they become aware of bullying. Most schools also find it helpful to develop peer mediation programs to assist students to resolve disputes before they degenerate into ongoing harassment.

Regardless of which program a school chooses, the important thing to keep in mind is taking a stand against school violence and bullying, because lack of intervention implies that bullying is acceptable and can be done without fear of consequences. Bullies and their accomplices need to understand the harm they cause and that their behavior will not be tolerated at school.