report-bullying form
BULLYING
Students, parents, teachers, principals and school leaders can all work together to prevent and end bullying.
What is bullying?
Bullying is a pattern of:
- Written, electronic or verbal communications that threaten harm,
- Obscene gestures, taunting or malicious teasing,
- Persistent shunning or excluding a student, or
- Physical harm, such as hitting, pushing or damaging personal property.
If you are a student, parent or school employee and need to report a case of bullying, you can fill out the Robert Russa Moton Charter School’s Bullying Report Form and submit it to the principal or appropriate school leader.
Warning Signs for Bullying:
There are many warning signs that may indicate that someone is affected by
bullying—either being bullied or bullying others. Recognizing the warning signs is an
important first step in taking action against bullying. Not all children who are bullied or
are bullying others ask for help.
It is important to talk with children who show signs of being bullied or bullying others.
These warning signs can also point to other issues or problems, such as depression or
substance abuse. Talking to the child can help identify the root of the problem.
Signs a Child Is Being Bullied
- Look for changes in the child. However, be aware that not all children who are bullied
exhibit warning signs. Some signs that may point to a bullying problem are:
- Unexplainable injuries
- Lost or destroyed clothing, books, electronics, or jewelry
- Frequent headaches or stomach aches, feeling sick or faking illness
- Changes in eating habits, like suddenly skipping meals or binge eating. Kids may
come home from school hungry because they did not eat lunch.
- Difficulty sleeping or frequent nightmares
- Declining grades, loss of interest in schoolwork, or not wanting to go to school
- Sudden loss of friends or avoidance of social situations
- Feelings of helplessness or decreased self esteem
- Self-destructive behaviors such as running away from home, harming
themselves, or talking about suicide
If you know someone in serious distress or danger, don’t ignore the problem.
Responding to Bullying:
When adults respond quickly and consistently to bullying behavior they send the
message that it is not acceptable. Research shows this can stop bullying
behavior over time. There are simple steps adults can take to stop bullying on the
spot and keep kids safe.
- Intervene immediately. It is ok to get another adult to help.
- Separate the kids involved.
- Make sure everyone is safe.
- Meet any immediate medical or mental health needs.
- Stay calm. Reassure the kids involved, including bystanders.
- Model respectful behavior when you intervene.