Bullying prevention and intervention
As defined by the Ministry of Education, bullying is typically a form of repeated, persistent and aggressive behaviour directed at an individual or individuals that is intended to cause fear and distress and/or harm to another person’s body, feelings, self-esteem or reputation.
Across the Peel board, schools use many programs and initiatives to prevent bullying and to intervene when bullying happens. Though the programs vary, their messages are consistent. Students are taught to:
- define bullying
- identify forms of bullying
- identify roles in bullying relationships, for example the person who bullies, the target, the bystander or the trusted advocate
- identify strategies for addressing bullying
Every school has a Climate for Learning and Working team which is required to develop a Bullying Prevention and Intervention Plan as part of the School Success Plan. Also, every employee who is involved in the care and service of students is obligated to report in writing to the school administration any action for which the principal must consider suspension or expulsion. Bullying is an offence that must be considered for suspension.
The Peel board takes the issue of bullying very seriously. If a student comes to a member of our staff to report that he or she is the target of bullying, we will provide a safe space and the time necessary for the student to report the experience and assist the student to name the specific bullying behaviours. We will provide problem-solving strategies for all students involved in a bullying situation and facilitate ongoing support, which may include involving the family, providing counselling, or providing training.
We know each student is a unique individual and that every situation has a set of special circumstances. However, there are clear, fair consequences for behaviour that is contrary to the Safe Schools policy and the school's Code of Conduct. Students who behave inappropriately will face a range of progressive discipline interventions and consequences that may include, but are not limited to: oral reminders, contact with parents, withdrawal of privileges, referral to counselling, suspension and/or expulsion.
Together with our work on bullying prevention and intervention, we also focus on character education. Schools are committed to modelling, demonstrating, teaching and reinforcing shared character attributes that help ensure safe, nurturing and engaging relationships, and a positive school climate.
For more information, read Bullying Prevention and Intervention Programs in Peel District School Board School, a report that was received by the board of trustees at the regular meeting of the board on Nov. 22, 2010. Learn more about our discipline policy in our Safe and Caring Schools brochure.
