In the District, our unique approach to bullying embraces a public-health framework to the vexing issue of bullying. Our local law requires us to take every incident seriously by providing immediate support to youth who are experiencing bullying and focusing on changing the behavior of students that engage in bullying. As we work to address individual incidents, we know that prevention is the goal, and that requires creating safe and supportive environments in each and every school, recreation center, library and after school space.
As we observe Bullying Prevention this month, it is important to note that it is not what we do in October that counts, but what we do every day to make certain that District youth know that they are heard and valued. Building trust and listening to their experiences is a daily commitment for us all and is a necessary step to ensuring that our youth have room to grow and excel without fear.
Yours in service,