Bullying Prevention Month: Do You Have A Story In Montclair?

MONTCLAIR, NJ — National Bullying Prevention Month kicks off this October across the nation.

According to the National Bullying Prevention Center, every day, thousands of young people experience bullying from their peers while at school, after school in their neighborhoods, and even when they are at home, through social media and texts.

“There are many ways to support bullying prevention as an individual or with friends and family, and within your school or community,” the center states on its website. (Learn some here)

Here’s what the Montclair Public School District says about bullying:

"We take great pride in the Montclair Public Schools to work with you and your children to create a safe learning environment. We hope that all of our students continue to grow academically, socially and emotionally. Our school administrators work hard to keep all schools safe and nurturing places for your children.

"As adults, parents, guardians and caregivers, we need to understand the differences in "normal inappropriate" and "sometimes annoying behaviors" that our students may experience as stepping stones in their development as they negotiate through peer conflicts. With this in mind, our goal, as your school leaders is to work with you regarding bullying which is a very serious issue that every school nationwide faces.

"Research shows that more than half of all school-aged children will be involved in annoying behaviors, conflicts, and bullying this year as victims or aggressors with many more witnessing these acts on a regular basis.

"We request that when your child experiences any of these acts, you discuss all the circumstances with your child to decipher what may be annoying behaviors or normal conflicts. Our goal is to teach students how to request help in the school and accept responsibility for their own actions.

"All too often, parents, guardians and caregivers begin the dialogue with school administration, counselors and teachers with the words, "being bullied" as they describe the incident, when a normal conflict may have transpired between classmates or school mates.

"Please bring the incidents to our attention. We will do our due diligence to investigate the incident, inform you if bullying has occurred, and provide school based support services for your child."

Learn more about the Montclair Public School District's anti-bullying policies.

PATCH SERIES: DEALING WITH BULLIES

As part of a national reporting project, Patch has been looking at society's roles and responsibilities in bullying.

Do you have a story to tell? Email us at bullies@patch.com, or share your views in the comments.

This article contains reporting from the Patch national desk.

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