The Issue
The occurrence of students bullying other students at TVMHS is an issue that all staff members and students are constantly exposed to and always trying to deal with. It occurs in classrooms, in recreational areas, in the halls, in the cafeteria, and in the washrooms and it is felt that it is time that all staff persons, parents, and students recognize bullying for what it is and take measures to end it, as far as humanly possible.
Staff Commitment
The staff at TVMHS will endeavour to address the issue of bullying as a serious violation of individual rights that hinders every student’s ability to learn and socialize in a safe and respectful environment.
Bullying Defined
Bullying is being teased, threatened, scared, or hurt by the same person, on a repetitive basis. Bullying is often confused with conflict. Conflict is a natural part of growing up and involves people who have equal power in a relationship. Bullying occurs when the balance of power has shifted or is not equal.
Harassment Defined
Harassment is hurting another person through cruel, offensive, and insulting behaviors.
The Signs
The physical aspect of bullying is the easiest sign to recognize but because bullying manifests itself in a variety of ways; it can be seen in many forms. Bullying could include pushing, teasing, hitting, excluding others, spreading rumors, cyber bullying, and demeaning others by name calling, making sounds, staring, or making racial, religious, vulgar, and rude comments about individuals or those that are close to them (to name a few).
Person Who Bullies
Students who bully will undergo sensitivity training. To deter students from being persistent in their negative relationship with others the following will apply:
- 1st offense – discussion with student and a letter home
- 2nd offense – meeting with parents
- 3rd offense – possible out of school suspension (1-5 days)
The Bullied
Person who is targeted of bullying will be encouraged to undergo self-confidence and assertiveness training. A meeting with the bully, the bully’s parent(s), the victim, and the victim’s parent(s) may be arranged if practical.