In a Nutshell...
- BULLYING IS A PROBLEM IN OUR SCHOOLS.
- Too many children are missing school and even dropping out...not because they can't handle the academic workload but because they can't handle their bully.
- Bullying is a broad term encompassing many different intentional acts that hurt an individual physically and/or emotionally.
- As the use of technology becomes more and more popular, especially among our students, cyber bullying rates are increasing. Cyber bullying is when students use texting, social networking websites, or email to embarrass and humiliate their victims. It is becoming more dangerous than "regular" bullying because finding the source is difficult and rumors spread like wildfire over the Internet.
- Bullies come in all shapes and sizes but tend to have high self esteem and feel power over their victims.
- Victims usually have low self esteem, are shy, and often struggle in school because most of their focus is placed on avoiding bullies.
- Every member of every community can play a role in working towards the goal of putting an end to bullying.
- It is very important for school districts to have effective, well thought out and executed bullying prevention programs and/or policies.
- Parents need to make sure their own children are educated about bullying and feel safe in the school setting.
- Students can help by reporting incidents of bullying to trusted adults.