Second Step Bullying Prevention Unit (January - February)

Each year students at PPS receive direct instruction around the importance of creating a safe and respectful space where everyone can learn. In 2024, PPS students will be using the Second Step Bullying Prevention Unit, in CARE class. District-wide (K-8) and school-wide, we implemented the Second Step program in your student's classroom, beginning in 2022. The Second Step program teaches children important skills fo rgetting along with other and doing well in school. It also helps your school be a safe, respectful place where everyone can learn. 

To provide further instruction and skill-building, we are implementing the Second Step Bullying Prevention Unit through CARE class instruction. In the lessons, your child will earn specific skills to help stop bullying. 

For more information about the Second Step Bullying Prevention Unit, visit the CARE Class Page.

Caregiver Resources for Bullying Prevention and Response

How to support your child(ren), ages 5-11, who may be experiencing bullying.

How do you help your child if you think they may be bullying others?

Empowering your children with information and strategies to protect themselves.


Please note that symbols are used to show how you can access the linked information.

What Is Bullying?

Bullying is intentional negative behavior that’s repeated and involves an imbalance of social or physical power.

Who Is Affected?

Bullying doesn’t just affect the students being bullied. It can cause emotional harm and reduce academic achievement for all students involved.

Care for Kids Child Safety Curriculum (November - December)

Each year, students at UMS, PPS, and MBS receive instruction regarding personal safety and healthy childhood sexual development using the curricula, Care for Kids (grades K-2) and We Care Elementary (grades 3-6).  The curriculum has been in use throughout the state since 1996 and is supported by Prevent Child Abuse Vermont, a statewide non-profit organization committed to ending the cycle of abuse for children in Vermont.  Our district has been using this curriculum for the past 6+ years. Following the November break, students will begin their Care for Kids lessons. 

For more information about Care for Kids, visit the CARE Class Page. 

Caregiver Resources for Child Safety and Abuse Prevention

When a child feels forced to demonstrate physical affection, they get the message that they are not in control of their bodies. This is a dangerous message for kids to receive.

Dr. Alilza Pressman, a developmental psychologist, discusses rituals, routines, separation, screen time, etc. While aired in 2020, this episode has many points that remain helpful for the current year.

Clinical psychologist, Dr. Becky Kennedy, shares a script for helping prep your child(ren) for back to school. Start laying the groundwork now - whether your child(ren) appears worried about the start of school, or not.

Caregiver Resources for Back-to-School Transitions

Anxiety expert, Lynn Lyons, helps caregivers understand how to help their children who are experiencing big worries as they prepare to head back to school.

Dr. Alilza Pressman, a developmental psychologist, discusses rituals, routines, separation, screen time, etc. While aired in 2020, this episode has many points that remain helpful for the current year.

Clinical psychologist, Dr. Becky Kennedy, shares a script for helping prep your child(ren) for back to school. Start laying the groundwork now - whether your child(ren) appears worried about the start of school, or not.

For more information about what a school counselor does, watch an informational video by the 2011 ASCA Counselor of the Year, Randy McPherson.

490 Porters Point Road, P.O. Box 32, Colchester, VT 05446      

(802) 264-5920

"Be Safe, Be Respectful, Be Ready to Learn"