More Than a Bystander: Bullying in Our Schools

Learn how many kids are bullied, and how educators can help.

Everyone plays a role in bullying — students, bystanders, parents and teachers. Arizona schools, by law, are required to have policies on harassment, bullying and intimidation. But what does that mean for you as an Arizona educator?

The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services recommends following these steps to combat bullying and prevent it in the future.

1. Stop bullying on the spot. Intervene immediately, separate the kids and make sure they are safe.

2. Find out what happened. It’s up to you to get the facts; keep the kids separated and listen without blaming.

3. Support the kids involved. Make kids who are being bullied feel safe, and give them advice on how to handle it in the future. But, most of all, listen to the child and tell them it’s not their fault.

4. Be more than a bystander. Encourage your students to do the right thing: tell an adult, help them get away and set a good example.

Learn more about who is at risk and how to prevent bullying in the future at stopbullying.gov.