Program helps schools stand up to bullies
A program that started this year through a state grant will
focus on a growing problem, bullying in schools, and the three
involved campuses stand to benefit from having a clear policy on
how to deal with the often-complicated problems.
It makes sense to take a programmed, thought-out approach to
bullying in schools because it is a long-existing societal problem
that involves a variety of complex emotions and stressors
– and there sometimes is no easy fix.
Program helps schools stand up to bullies
A program that started this year through a state grant will focus on a growing problem, bullying in schools, and the three involved campuses stand to benefit from having a clear policy on how to deal with the often-complicated problems.
It makes sense to take a programmed, thought-out approach to bullying in schools because it is a long-existing societal problem that involves a variety of complex emotions and stressors – and there sometimes is no easy fix.
Many teachers often don’t know what is appropriate in handling such behavior, and usually aren’t trained properly to do so. Students who are victims frequently don’t know how to react or confront the issues. And students who are bullying others don’t always realize the extent of the damage they are causing.
The program headed up by Gang Prevention Coordinator Al De Vos, through a state grant handed down to the police and probation departments, is a positive step toward expanding the offerings to schools throughout San Benito County. Reaching that ultimate goal would ensure teachers, students and parents throughout the district can feel comfortable knowing the behavior is being addressed promptly and professionally, with the intent of not only halting the behavior, but also educating those involved about the impacts.
And those impacts can be severe, as a climate study found that was conducted at area schools last year.
One of the more stunning findings from the study was that 50 percent to 60 percent of students reporting that they had been bullied also recalled how the behavior lasted at least six months.
This points to the likelihood that educators or parents either weren’t noticing the problem or weren’t dealing with it appropriately. That is where the program should help immensely, in filling those gaps and getting everyone on the same page.
With today’s easy access to electronic communications, it’s no wonder the problem has not only remained, but also grown in a sense. Confronting it now with a proactive, organized approach serves everyone better in the school community for the short and long term.
