Addressing bullying means taking a holistic approach. The following three articles address topics I am often asked to address during presentations:
Restorative Justice can support targets of bullying—if implemented correctly. Many schools are using restorative practices to address school safety issues, including bullying. It is important that schools implement such approaches with the full buy-in of all students to ensure that the experience is supportive and does not contribute to make students continue to feel victimized.
Teen dating violence is a critical school safety issue. The DC Council is considering legislation to address dating violence. This article provides information about the link between teen dating violence and broader safety issues.
Talking to students about social media use is important to keep them safe. Parents and school staff are often a step behind when it comes to students’ use of social media. Students can use social media to seek support and build connection, but parents and other adults are often concerned with the more negative aspects of such sites. This guidance helps adults communicate with students about social media use and ensure they have the tools needed to stay safe.
Remember that the Youth Bullying Prevention Act of 2012 requires all schools in the District of Columbia to provide information on all reported and confirmed bullying incidents. We will request these data at the end of the 2018/2019 school year. To assist in this process, we have provided a spreadsheet tool (.xlsx) to help you compile the data requested. We will be providing further guidance on submitting your data to OHR later this spring.
Suzanne Greenfield
Director, Citywide Bullying Prevention Program
Pronouns – she, her, hers
District of Columbia Office of Human Rights
441 4th Street, N.W., Suite 570N
Washington, D.C. 20001
Main: 202.727.4559
Direct: 202.727.0455
Cell: 202.834.6376
Fax: 202.727.9589
|
|
|
|
|
