Cyberbullying

One of the main bullying issues that we have to deal with is cyberbullying. The formal definition of cyberbullying is intentional and repeated use of computer and cell phone networks by kids and teens to cause harm or distress to other kids and teens. (Cybersmart Curriculum). Another extended definition is that "Cyberbullying" is when a child, preteen or teen is tormented, threatened, harassed, humiliated, embarrassed or otherwise targeted by another child, preteen or teen using the Internet, interactive and digital technologies or mobile phones. It has to have a minor on both sides, or at least have been instigated by a minor against another minor. Once adults become involved, it is plain and simple cyber-harassment or cyberstalking. Adult cyber-harassment or cyberstalking is NEVER called cyberbullying. (Stop Cyberbullying website).

This link http://cybersmartcurriculum.org/assets/files/HC_68.pdf provides a resource of what students and parents should know regarding how to handle cyberbullying.

Most of the time the cyberbullying incidents begin outside of school, and then interfere with the school’s instructional processes. This occurs either because the students start fighting in school or a student is so upset that they cannot function at school. The Shelby County Board of Education has an anti-harrassment policy and a reporting form (http://www.shelbyed.k12.al.us/doclibrary/StudentServ/Harass-Bully-IncidentReportingForm.pdf) which is available on the school website for parents and students to report bullying. In addition, the board policy on acceptable use of technology also addresses that students should not use technology resources to harass another student.

There are two distinct ways that we handle all bullying situations. We can mediate between the students through counseling, and/or we can discipline the bully if we think that is necessary. One of the basic principles of our conversations with students is to inform them of what they are doing which has upset the victim. And then explain why it is wrong. We also give tips to the victims and the bully on how to handle situations. One way we handle cyberbullying is through mediation by the counselors. We discuss what the causes of the conflict were, then we look at how the students can either repair their relationships or how they can coexist without any more issues. As we are working with the students we might provide a bully quiz such as this link http://www.stopcyberbullying.org/tweens/are_you_a_cyberbully.html so that students can reflect on what has occurred and decide are they a bully or are they a victim?

If we discipline a student for bullying, we have a Class I violation which deals with the distraction of other students or the school program in general. We also can handle this through a Class II violation regrading threat, harassment, intimidation or bullying of students. There is also a Class III violation relating to harassment.

Finally, if a student is having issues with cyberbullying, the parents and students should remember to keep copies of disturbing communications, so if needed, the information can be turned over to the proper authorities, whether the bully’s parents, school authorities, or law enforcement.