Bullying Prevention School Resources for Online Education
Nearly one in five students report being bullied at school. Bullying can take many forms, from physical altercations to mean rumors to online cruelty, but they share one common theme: bullying hurts.
What is bullying?
Bullying is repeated, unwanted, and aggressive behavior, often among school-aged children but can undoubtedly last well beyond that. Bullying is when someone uses their power, real or perceived, to hurt someone or make them feel bad or intimidated. Cyberbullying is bullying performed online, using social media or other electronic communication methods. Sometimes this is anonymous; sometimes, it's not.
K12 is committed to bullying prevention—and we can help provide a safe, supportive alternative for your family.
In a survey of parents during the 2020–2021 school year, 35 percent said they enrolled their students in a K12-powered school because of safety and/or mental health concerns stemming from a previous school.
We know that bullying can impact a student's performance in the classroom. K12-powered teachers are specially trained in online instruction methods, including understanding and identifying cyberbullying. With more than 20 years of experience in online education, K12-powered schools offer a variety of family support resources that provide a holistic approach to learning that drives student success and engagement. K12-powered schools are the safe space your family deserves.
The K12-powered experience includes:
A zero-tolerance policy for bullying
Helping students understand what bullying is and what it looks like online
Trained online teachers who recognize the signs of bullying behavior
An environment that encourages bystanders to take action
Monitoring of school social media accounts and groups
Engaging families and Learning Coaches in educational and awareness training and reporting
Watch Bryanna and her mom Tammy share their story.
How her K12-powered education made all the difference.
Real students tell their stories.
* Noah, Ethan, and Samantha are graduates of K12-powered schools in Ohio and Virginia, and their statements reflect their experiences at their schools.
Is the safety of a K12-powered online school right for your family?
How to Prevent Bullying
If you're an adult, intervene immediately. Send the message that bullying is not acceptable. Stay calm, model respectful behavior, and make sure everyone is safe.
Keep the lines of communication open, and always listen. Make sure not to downplay the issues or think kids can handle them on their own.
Remember, parents and caregivers are students' number one advocates and know best about the most effective ways their students learn. Some students learn best when they have fewer classroom distractions, like bullies. No matter the preferred learning method, experienced online providers offer families and teachers a personalized and structured experience to meet each student's learning needs.
Signs a Child Is Being Bullied
Recognizing the warning signs is an essential first step in taking action against bullying. Not all children who are bullied or are bullying others ask for help. According to StopBullying.gov , signs a child is being bullied might include:
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
Effects of Bullying
Kids who are bullied might experience mental health effects like depression, anxiety, loneliness, and changes in their sleep and eating habits. They may also experience changes in their physical health, as well as decreased academic achievement. They are more likely to miss or drop out of school and have an increase in suicidal ideation.
But the effects are not limited to the targets of bullying. The children who bully are also at risk. Kids who bully are more likely to abuse alcohol and drugs, get into fights, drop out of school, and even abuse their spouses as adults.
When to Call the Police or Get Medical Attention
Bullying is never okay, but some types of bullying require emergency attention. These include situations wherein:
A weapon is involved.
There are threats of serious physical injury.
There are threats of hate-motivated violence such as racism or homophobia.
There is serious bodily harm.
There is sexual abuse.
Anyone is accused of an illegal act such as robbery or extortion—using force to get money, property, or services.
Learn Safely with K12's Dedication to Bullying Prevention
K12's online bullying prevention program offers students the safe learning environment they need to thrive. Follow the links below to learn more and find peace of mind with K12.
