What Can I Do If I am Bullied?
Bullying is defined as one person, on more than one occasion, using verbal or physical harassment to make another person feel scared or intimidated. This may be done by a group or by an individual. Bullying occurs among boys and girls of all ages, from all backgrounds, and for many reasons. Many bullies have themselves been victims of bullying.
How to Act
Many students are afraid of being bullied in middle school, and it’s a problem nationwide. Fortunately, our school and district have rules in place for preventing and managing bullying. KidsHealth.org suggests telling kids to try not to show their anger in front of the bully, because that will just make the bully feel powerful. You should ignore the bully and walk away if you can. You should also tell an adult you trust what is happening. It is not being a tattletale to tell an adult about bullying. It is not a good idea to fight or bully back. It could lead to discipline for you. It is also hard to know how the bully will react. If there is a particular time or place when you often face a bully, we suggest that you try to enlist a friend to be there with you. Bullies are less likely to target a pair.
Talk to Someone
Victims of bullying almost always feel alone and afraid to tell anyone about it. This only adds to the cycle of bullying. Students who have been bullied can talk to any staff member (teacher, campus supervisor, office staff, custodian, or administrator) to seek help and protection. Victims of bullying are encouraged to talk to their parents. Your report to an administrator should include any information about witnesses to the bullying. School officials cannot help when they do not know.
You will be OK
If you are bullied, you will probably feel alone and powerless. When parents find out, they sometimes overreact and become protective. Don’t let this stop you from telling your parents. Reassure them that you know what to do and will work with the school to take care of the situation. Victims worry about what others think and that the bully will find out. Stay calm and remember that there are lots of people who will help you know what to do to stay safe and free from bullying.
Once bullies are identified they are warned to leave the victim(s) alone and to stop all contact. Further incidents will result in more disciplinary action, including home suspension (see the Student Conduct Code). Physical injury, even on the first offense, is dealt with differently and according to the conduct code.
The following poster is taken from Pinterest, the work of Trudy Ludwig, and Signe Whitson L.S.W.