At John Hydock, we integrate the Responsive Classroom Approach (RCA). A core belief of the approach is that in order to be successful in and out of school, students need to learn a set of social and emotional competencies, as well as designated academic competencies. Click here for more information on Responsive Classroom. 

At Mansfield Elementary School, we use the Olweus Anti-Bullying program. The Olweus Bullying Prevention Program (OBPP) is a school-wide, comprehensive framework focused on systemic change to create a safe and positive school climate. The goals of the OBPP are to:

• reduce existing bullying problems among students

• prevent new bullying problems

• achieve better peer relations

These goals are pursued by restructuring the school environment to reduce opportunities and rewards for bullying, encouraging pro-social behaviors, and building a sense of community. The OBPP is designed for students in elementary, middle, and high schools and involves all staff, students, parents, and the community in bullying prevention efforts. All students participate in most aspects of the program, while students who bully others and students who are bullied receive additional individualized interventions.

The purpose of the New Jersey Youth Suicide Prevention Advisory Council is to examine existing needs and services and make recommendations to the Department of Children and Families (DCF) for youth reporting, prevention, and intervention. Further, the council seeks to educate youth and families who are at risk about the resources available for suicide prevention and post intervention, and to reduce the overall incidents of suicide throughout the State of New Jersey.  Please visit the PerformCare NJ website for more information. 

N.J.S.A. 18A:37-29 requires that all public school districts designate the week beginning with the first Monday in October of each year as Week of Respect in the State of New Jersey. Approved Private Schools for Students with Disabilities (APSSDs) are encouraged, but not required, to observe this week. This week affords an opportunity for districts and schools to focus instructional efforts and programs geared toward the prevention of harassment, intimidation, and bullying (HIB) as they work toward creating environments that are welcoming and supportive places for all to learn. Additionally, New Jersey’s Week of Respect coincides with National Bullying Prevention Month which is annually observed in October. This allows school districts to observe the Week of Respect when there is a national spotlight on bullying prevention efforts as we place an emphasis on promoting kindness and inclusion in schools. Requirements of Week of Respect pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:37-29 • During this week, school districts, in order to recognize the importance of character education, are required to provide age-appropriate instruction focusing on preventing harassment, intimidation and bullying as defined in section 2 of P.L.2002, c.83 (C.18A:37-14). • The Week of Respect, observed beginning with the first Monday in October of each year, is in addition to the requirement for school districts to provide ongoing age-appropriate instruction on preventing HIB in accordance with the core curriculum content standards.