Preventative Strategies

Teaching Conflict Resolution Skills

Model Positive Behavior: Respectful and constructive ways of handling conflicts are modeled among all staff in the Bedford School District.
Encourage Active Listening: The importance of listening to understand others' perspectives before responding is emphasized to all students.
Promote Empathy: Students are taught to develop empathy by being encouraged to consider how their words and actions impact others.
Teach Problem-Solving Strategies: Various conflict resolution strategies such as compromise, negotiation, and finding common ground are modeled and encouraged to all students.
Encourage Calm Communication: Students are encouraged to express their thoughts and feelings calmly and respectfully, using "I" statements to avoid blaming language.

Promote a Positive Classroom Culture: Supportive and inclusive classroom environments are fostered where students feel valued and respected.
Encourage Respect and Acceptance: Lessons on respect for others' differences are incorporated into the curriculum.
Encourage Reporting: The Bedford School District strives to promote a culture where students feel comfortable reporting bullying incidents to trusted adults.
Support Student Self-Management Skills: Developing empathy, self-awareness, and responsible decision-making skills are essential components of a healthy school environment.

Reports Are Taken Seriously: When a bullying incident is reported, it is investigated promptly and thoroughly.
Provide Support: Support is offered to the victim of bullying, including counseling services, if needed. All students have a right to feel safe and supported at school.
Address the Behavior: Perpetrator(s) are held accountable for their actions according to district policy, and consequences are implemented that are not only appropriate, but also help the perpetrator(s) understand the impact of their behavior.
Involve Parents and Guardians: Parents or guardians of both the victim and the perpetrator(s) are communicated with to ensure a collaborative approach to addressing the issue and to help prevent future incidents.