Student Safety & Inclusion

The Project Prevent team is actively supporting bullying prevention efforts in K-5 schools by teaching students how to recognize, report, and refuse bullying, while also empowering them to use their bystander power to create safer, more inclusive environments.

Through engaging lessons and activities, we equip young learners with the tools to identify harmful behaviors, stand up for themselves and others, and foster a culture of kindness and respect. Together, we're building stronger, more resilient school communities.

Resources

School’s HIB Policy: Review your school’s handbook or website for specific guidelines.

Washington State Governor’s Office of the Education Ombuds: Bullying, Harassment and Intimidation

Stop Bullying.GOV: If you or someone you know is being bullied, there are things you can do to keep yourself and others safe from bullying. Practical website with resources available for kids, teens and adults along with contact information and services available in Spanish and for Deaf/Hard of Hearing People

Books and Media: Look for age-appropriate resources to discuss bullying and empathy.

Support Networks: Join parent groups or seek advice from counselors if needed.

Parent Conversations - ENG

COMMSUPP-STUDENTSAFETY-BullyingPreventionENG (PDF)

Parent Conversations - SPAN

COMMSUPP-STUDENTSAFETY-BullyingPreventionSPAN (PDF)

FAQ About Harassment, Intimidation, & Bullying (HIB)

HARASSMENT, INTIMIDATION AND BULLYING IS ANY INTENTIONAL ACT THAT:
● Harms another student physically, emotionally, or socially.
● Creates fear of harm to a student or their property.
● Interferes with a student’s education or well-being.
● Targets characteristics such as race, gender, disability, or other personal traits.

EXAMPLES OF HARASSMENT, INTIMIDATION AND BULLYING INCLUDE:
● Verbal abuse: Name-calling, teasing, or threats.
● Physical aggression: Hitting, shoving, or damaging belongings.
● Social exclusion: Spreading rumors or intentionally leaving someone out.
● Cyberbullying: Using social media, texting, or other digital platforms to hurt others.

HOW CAN I TELL IF MY CHILD IS BEING BULLIED?

Children may not always directly tell you about problems. Look for signs such as:

● Emotional changes: Increased anxiety, sadness, or irritability.
● Physical symptoms: Headaches, stomachaches, or trouble sleeping.
● Avoidance behaviors: Not wanting to go to school or participate in activities.
● Academic changes: Sudden drops in grades or lack of interest in schoolwork.
● Loss of belongings: Missing or damaged personal items.

HOW SHOULD I TALK WITH MY CHILD IF I THINK THERE IS A PROBLEM?

1. Create a safe space:
○ Let them know they can talk to you without fear of judgment or punishment.
2. Ask open-ended questions:
○ "Can you tell me about your day?"
○ "Have you felt uncomfortable or upset around anyone recently?"
3. Listen actively:
○ Stay calm and let them share their story fully.
○ Avoid interrupting or immediately offering solutions.
4. Validate their feelings:
○ "I’m sorry you’re going through this. It’s not your fault."
5. Reassure them:
○ "We will work together to handle this. You’re not alone."

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF MY CHILD REPORTS BULLYING?

1. Document the details:
○ Write down what your child shares, including names, dates, and specific incidents.
2. Contact the school:
○ Contact your child’s teacher, school counselor, or principal.
○ Share the information and ask about the process for handling disagreements and issues of bullying.
3. Follow up:
○ Stay in communication with the school to ensure steps are being taken.
4. Support your child:
○ Encourage friendships and activities that boost their confidence.
○ Consider professional counseling if needed.

HOW CAN I HELP PREVENT BULLYING?

● Teach empathy and kindness: Encourage your child to think about how their actions affect others.
● Model respectful behavior: Demonstrate positive communication and conflict resolution.
● Discuss digital safety:

○ Set boundaries for social media and online interactions.
○ Talk about the importance of not sharing hurtful content.

● Encourage reporting: Let your child know it’s brave and important to speak up if they see or experience HIB.

WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ACCUSED OF BEING A BULLY?

1. Stay calm and open-minded:
○ Listen to the school’s perspective and gather facts.
2. Talk with your child:
○ Ask for their side of the story without jumping to conclusions.
○ Help them understand the impact of their actions.
3. Work with the school:
○ Collaborate on strategies to address the behavior.
○ Ensure your child receives appropriate guidance and consequences.
4. Promote accountability:
○ Encourage your child to apologize and make amends where appropriate.

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Contact Us

Anthony Maldonado

Titles: Project Prevent Coordinator

Email: