Dixon’s approach engaged Mr. Walker in the conversation.
Conversation Goals
Goal 1: Get Mr. Walker’s Side of the Story
Dixon earned a green check mark. She made an effort to engage Mr. Walker. Once she learned his side of the story, she reminded him of the school policy regarding reporting incidents of bullying.
Goal 2: Directly Address Where Mr. Walker Went Wrong
Dixon earned a green check mark. She reminded Mr. Walker of the school’s policy concerning Scotty’s right to express himself outside school, and then reinforced the school’s shared values of respect and support. This was an excellent way to address where he went wrong in failing to report the incident.
Effective Techniques
Here are some things for Ms. Dixon to remember when dealing with this incident:
Bring Up the Topic Respectfully
“I was wondering if we could talk about a situation that’s come up with a student.”
Dixon did a good job raising the subject in a neutral, respectful manner.
State Facts Without Judgment
Dixon did not manage to convey what Scotty told her to Mr. Walker without judgment and/or making assumptions.
Remind of Policy to Report Bullying
“All incidents of bullying need to be reported to me.”
Walker confirmed that he was told of Scotty’s bullying incident. Rather than judging his failure to properly handle the situation, Ms. Dixon simply reminded him of the policy and of his responsibility.
Connect to School Values
“It’s on us to foster a safe environment for all students.”
Upon getting some resistance from Mr. Walker, Ms. Dixon reminded him of the school’s shared values.
Inform Colleague of Regulations
“Are you aware of how this is covered under our district’s bullying policy?”
Dixon chose to remind Mr. Walker of Scotty’s protection from discrimination under the school district’s bullying policy.
Common Pitfalls
For this type of conversation, Ms. Dixon should be sure to avoid:
Being Too Confrontational
Dixon did a good job. She managed to avoid getting confrontational with Mr. Walker.
Making it Personal
Dixon did a good job. She avoided making the conversation personal.
Failing to Communicate School Values
Dixon did a good job. Upon getting some resistance from Mr. Walker, she stuck to communicating school policy and values, and did not get personal or question his place in the school.
Recommendations
When dealing with incidents like this in real life, the key to an effective response is to:
Stick to relaying what the student in question told you without jumping to conclusions or making accusations.
Avoid confrontational or judgmental statements.
Directly address any biased language.
Remind the employee of his or her responsibility regarding the school’s bullying policy and values.
