As defined in the Code of Virginia § 22.1-276.01, “Bullying” means any aggressive and unwanted behavior that is intended to harm, intimidate, or humiliate the victim; involves a real or perceived power imbalance between the aggressor or aggressors and victim; and is repeated over time or causes severe emotional trauma. "Bullying" includes cyber bullying. "Bullying" does not include ordinary teasing, horseplay, argument, or peer conflict.
There can be negative effects of bullying, but we can combat these by working together. Our role as mentors for children is to provide education, resources and support. All individuals in the school, home and community are important stakeholders to create these positive relationships with children.
School:
Our school’s anti-bullying rules are:
· We will not bully.
· We will help.
· We will include.
· We will report.
Classroom:
Part of the program’s components includes holding classroom meetings. These meetings will take place weekly with the child’s homeroom teacher. During these meetings, students will learn about what bullying is, what to do, how to support others, and build positive relationships with their teacher and peers. Classroom meetings also focus on additional social skills (i.e. respect, friendship, bucket filling, being a learner, etc.)
Individual:
This component includes stopping bullying when it is happening and working with individuals one-on-one whether they are the individual engaging in the bullying behavior, the individual being bullied or a bystander.
Please report any concerns regarding bullying to administration as soon as possible.
Community:
This component focuses on creating partnerships with community members and organizations to reinforce the anti-bullying rules while students are in the community.
Parents:
As a parent, you play an important role in the anti-bullying program. It is important that you have open communication with staff and teachers regarding the program and your child. We highly recommend reinforcing the tools and strategies taught to your child regarding bullying and bullying situations within the home.