Everyone has the right to be safe at school. Bullying is behavior that aims to hurt someone either physically or emotionally. An imbalance of power exists between the bully and the person being bullied, and bullying is usually repeated over time. Because bullying often happens outside the presence of an adult, it is everyone's responsibility to report bullying. The goal of reporting is to keep everyone safe.
Staff at Triton Elementary use the Second Step Bullying Prevention Unit to teach students to
- Recognize what bullying is and what it is not
- Report bullying to an adult when they see it happening
- Refuse bullying in an assertive way
Students are also taught how to be responsible bystanders who do not stand by and allow bullying to continue. Grade level appropropriate lessons are taught early each school year and are reinforced throughout the year. Bullying is addressed by administrators and may include a plan for both parties and will include staff and parents.
Conflicts between students are addressed by helping students resolve their problems and may involve consequences. However, conflicts are not necessarily considered "bullying". When conflicts between the same students are repeated over time and involves a perceived imbalance of power, a bullying plan can be developed.
