Isolated, minor misbehavior that is directed toward another student is not considered bullying.  Students often make mistakes when learning how to interact socially with each other.  School staff intervene and respond appropriately for all of these incidents, but the focus will be on education and relationship building.  It is important not to label students as "bullies" and "victims" because that can have a negative impact on  all students involved.

Some important things to remember when it comes to bullying and cyberbullying:

• Adult intervention is the best way to get bullying to stop.  Students are encouraged to always reach out to a trusted adult at school if they are being bullied or believe someone else is being bullied.  The idea  it will "get worse" if they tell someone is false.  

•  Staff are trained to always put protective measures in place to protect all involved students (including those who may report bullying) while an incident is being investigated and resolved.

• Bullying behavior that is based on someone's actual or perceived race, color, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, physical or mental disability, or other protected characteristics can be considered harassment and may be a violation of the Maine Civil Rights Act.  These incidents are investigated according to MSAD 6 policy ACAA.

• Cyberbullying that happens outside of school hours or off school grounds does not always result in school discipline.  However, school staff must intervene and may impose discipline if that incident has an adverse impact on a student's ability to safely access their education.