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Bullying
and harassment can have serious negative impacts on students'
well-being and academic performance. Teachers play a critical
role in preventing and addressing these issues in the classroom
and school.
This
could be achieved through the following:
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Establish clear rules and expectations around
appropriate behaviour,
including consequences for bullying and harassment.
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Create a safe and inclusive classroom
environment
where all students feel respected and valued.
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Take all reports of bullying and harassment
seriously
and investigate them promptly.
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Use restorative practices
to address bullying and harassment, including talking with
the victim, the perpetrator, and any witnesses.
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Provide support and resources
for students who have experienced bullying and harassment.
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Encourage bystander intervention
and empower students to stand up against bullying and
harassment.
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Use age-appropriate lessons and activities to
educate students
about the effects of bullying and harassment, and how to
prevent it.
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Collaborate with parents and guardians
to address incidents of bullying and harassment and develop
strategies for prevention.
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Involve school counselors, administrators,
and other support staff
as needed to address bullying and harassment.
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Document all incidents of bullying and
harassment,
including the date, time, location, and nature of the
incident, as well as any witnesses and actions taken.
-
Provide ongoing training and support for
teachers
on how to recognize, prevent, and address bullying and
harassment.
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Ensure that all school staff are aware of the
school's policies and procedures
around bullying and harassment and are prepared to enforce
them.
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Provide opportunities for students to give
feedback
on the school's efforts to prevent and address bullying and
harassment.
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Regularly review and evaluate the school's
policies
and procedures around bullying and harassment to ensure that
they are effective and up-to-date.
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Foster a culture of respect, empathy, and
kindness
in the classroom and throughout the school.
In conclusion, handling bullying
and harassment in classrooms and schools requires a
comprehensive approach that involves creating a safe and
inclusive learning environment, educating students about the
effects of bullying and harassment, and taking prompt action to
address incidents when they occur. By working together,
teachers, administrators, students, and families can help
prevent bullying and harassment and promote a culture of respect
and kindness in schools.
References:
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Bullying Prevention and Intervention: Information for
Educators by the National Education Association
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Preventing and Responding to Bullying: Information for
Teachers by StopBullying.gov
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Bullying Prevention and Positive Behavior Support by the
Center for Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports
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Picture: iStock
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