Positive Parenting

School Community

Pic 0: A title screen appears which reads “School Community” before transitioning to Jackie in front of a white background.

Jackie: Good. By taking a stand for Scotty, Ms. Dixon set a strong expectation for all bullying incidents to be reported. Of course, it can be frustrating when you get push back from a colleague or feel like you’re alone in your efforts. Since it’s hard to tackle bullying alone, how can we make sure our whole school gets involved?

Pic 1: The screen changes to one titled “Getting the School Involved.” There is an image of a group of figures in different colors in a circle. Below, text reads “One, build an inclusive environment.”

Jackie: First, build an inclusive environment to encourage positive change.

Pic 2: The image changes to one of a green figure with long hair and their hands on their hips with a green word bubble next to them. Text underneath reads “Two, motivate bystanders to become upstanders and allies.”

Jackie: Second, motivate bystanders to become upstanders and allies who take decisive action.

Pic 3: The image changes to one of two hands reaching out to each other. One is outlined in red, and is smaller, while the larger one is outlined in green. Text underneath reads “Three, reach out and connect.”

Jackie: Finally, reach out to targeted students and aggressors and connect them with support. Let’s take a closer look at each of these.

Pic 4: The title and previous text disappear and the text “Inclusive Environment” reappears next to its previously described symbol.

Jackie: An inclusive environment encourages acceptance and safety for everyone.

Pic 5: Underneath, a green check mark appears next to text which reads “Make yourself a visible supporter.”

Jackie: When you make yourself a visible supporter, students like Gabriel, Stephanie, and Scotty know there is someone they can go to.

Pic 6: Below, another check mark appears next to text which reads “Post inclusive visuals.”

Jackie: Posting stickers, posters, and pins can let students know you’re available to help those who may feel marginalized. This lets students of all backgrounds know they are welcome and accepted.

Pic 7: The screen changes one with the text “Motivate Bystanders to Become Upstanders and Allies” next to the image of the green figure and the word bubble.

Jackie: Next, motivate bystanders to become upstanders and allies.

Pic 8: Underneath, a green check mark appears next to text which reads “Define bullying and its consequences.”

Jackie: Make sure all staff and students are taught how to identify bullying, know how to report incidents, and understand what the school will do about it.

Pic 9: A new check mark appears next to text reads “Post and enforce anti bullying policies.”

Jackie: Post your anti bullying policies throughout the school to support targeted students, discourage aggressive behavior, and remind adults that they should intervene whenever they see or hear bullying of any kind.

Pic 10: The next check mark line reads “Make reporting easy.”

Jackie: And make reporting easy for students. For example, have a box available to report bullying anonymously. When you maintain confidentiality, targets, and upstanders and allies can report incidents without fear of reprisal.

Pic 11: The content disappears and is replaced by the text “Reach out and connect” next to the image of the two hands.

Jackie: Finally, when you reach out to aggressors and victims, not only can you help uncover and resolve issues,

Pic 12: A green check mark appears next to text which reads “Connect to counseling services.”

Jackie: but you can also refer them to ongoing support, such as the school counselor.

Pic 13: The next line reads “Connect to anti bullying education programs.”

Jackie: You can also connect families to other anti bullying educational programs and workshops. These courses help parents and students respond to bullying outside of school and raise awareness within their community.

Pic 14: The screen returns to Jackie.

Jackie: For more helpful ideas, be sure to visit the Resources section of your menu. Every time you address biased language, reach out to a marginalized student, or enforce your school’s bullying and reporting policy, you have a direct, positive impact on your students. Thank you for making your school a better place to grown and learn.