As we enter the month of October, our school community is proud to join individuals, families, and schools across the nation in recognizing National Bullying Prevention Month. Founded in 2006 by PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center, this month serves as a vital reminder that every student deserves to feel safe, valued, and supported—both in the classroom and online.
Bullying is not a "rite of passage" or an unavoidable part of growing up; it is a serious issue that affects the well-being of our entire community. When we work together to prevent bullying, we create an environment where every student can learn, grow, and thrive.
National statistics show that more than one out of every five students will experience bullying this year. Bullying directly impacts a student’s ability to learn and succeed:
Academic & Attendance Impact: Students who are bullied often find it difficult to concentrate, experience a decline in grades, or feel hesitant to come to school.
Health & Emotional Well-Being: Bullying can lead to physical symptoms (such as headaches and stomachaches) as well as mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, loss of self-esteem, and self-harm.
Impact on Bystanders: Witnesses to bullying often feel unsafe, helpless, or fearful that they will become the next target.
Long-Term Effects: Research shows that the negative consequences of bullying—for targets, witnesses, and those who bully—can persist well into adulthood.
Throughout October, our school will focus on four main pillars to foster a positive, supportive environment:
UNITE: We are amplifying a unified message that bullying is never acceptable. We want every student to know they belong and that our school is a safe space for everyone.
RAISE AWARENESS: We will lead conversations in classrooms and assemblies about the power of positive actions—focusing heavily on kindness, acceptance, and inclusion.
LEARN: Knowledge is empowering. We are equipping students, educators, and families with free tools and practical strategies to respond effectively if they experience or witness bullying.
TAKE ACTION: Silence is not an acceptable response. We are encouraging youth-led activities, visual displays throughout our hallways, and community initiatives that empower students to advocate for themselves and support their peers.
How Parents and Families Can Get Involved
Bullying prevention requires a partnership between home and school. Here is how you can support these efforts at home:
Talk About It: Initiate open conversations with your children about their school day, online interactions, and relationships with peers.
Promote Peer Advocacy: Encourage your children to speak up for others, offer support to classmates who seem left out, and report any harmful behavior to a trusted adult.
Utilize Free Resources: Visit PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center at PACER.org/bullying to access interactive toolkits, videos, and guides designed specifically for parents and youth (including dedicated sites for kids and teens).
Every person in our community has a role to play. By choosing kindness, practicing empathy, and standing up against bullying, we can ensure our school remains a safe, welcoming place for all.