Skip To Main Content

Bully Prevention

Bullying Poster

Bullyingposterupdated (PDF)

Bullying Parent Flyer

BullyingParentFlyer (PDF)

Effective bullying prevention requires a collaborative effort from parents, schools, and communities to create safe and supportive environments for all children.

"No one can make you feel inferior without your consent" - Eleanor Roosevelt

Bullying and /or Harassment Reporting Form

Bullying Prevention and ReportingVolusia County Schools is committed to providing a safe, supportive, and respectful learning environment for all students. Bullying, harassment, and discrimination of any kind are not tolerated and are addressed in accordance with School Board Policy 525.

Bullying prevention involves strategies and actions aimed at stopping bullying before it starts and addressing it effectively when it occurs. Key components include:

  • Education and awareness for all children, parents and educators;
  • Creating a positive environment that promotes respect and kindness in schools, homes, and communities;
  • Empower students to be an upstander. Speak up and stand up for themselves and others; and
  • Provide support systems and access to support systems: including but not limited to resources for victims and bullies, anonymous reporting systems, and access to safe adults students can go to for help when needed.

How to Report Bullying

Students, parents, guardians, and staff are encouraged to report concerns as soon as possible. Reports may be made to:

  • School Principal
  • School Assistant Principal
  • School Counselor or other trusted school staff member
  • Through the district’s bullying and harassment reporting process and anonymous reporting, such as FortifyFL

What Happens After a Report is Made?All reports of bullying or harassment are reviewed and investigated by school administration according to district procedures. Appropriate interventions and support are provided to address the situations and promote student safety and well-being.Need Assistance?

If you have questions about bullying prevention or reporting procedures, please contact your child’s school administration or Volusia County Schools Student Services.

Behavior Support Services:                                      Mental Health Services:

Jay Strother                                                                 Jessica McIntyre

Coordinator, Student Services                                Coordinator, Mental Health Services

jbstroth@volusia.k12.fl.us                                    jlmcinty@volusia.k12.fl.us

(386) 734-7190 ext. 20076                                        (386) 734-7190 ext. 20653

Additional Information Regarding Bullying and Harassment

What is Bullying? What are Signs of Bullying?

Bullying is intentional, aggressive behavior that involves an imbalance of power or strength. Behaviors are repeated, or have the potential to be repeated, over time. Bullying can cause significant emotional, psychological, and physical harm to the victim. It can take many forms, including:

  • Physical Bullying: Hitting, kicking, or pushing.
  • Verbal Bullying: Name-calling, teasing, or making threats.
  • Social Bullying: Spreading rumors, excluding someone from a group, or embarrassing someone in public.
  • Cyberbullying: Using digital platforms to harass, threaten, or humiliate someone.

Signs a Child Is Being Bullied

Signs a Child Is Bullying Others
  • Unexplainable injuries: Frequent bruises, cuts, or scratches.
  • Lost or destroyed belongings: Missing or damaged clothing, books, electronics, or jewelry.
  • Physical complaints: Frequent headaches, stomach aches, or faking illness.
  • Changes in eating habits: Skipping meals or binge eating; coming home hungry.
  • Sleep issues: Difficulty sleeping or frequent nightmares.
  • Academic problems: Declining grades, loss of interest in schoolwork, or not wanting to go to school.
  • Social withdrawal: Sudden loss of friends or avoidance of social situations.
  • Emotional distress: Feelings of helplessness, decreased self-esteem, or self-destructive behaviors like running away, self-harm, or talking about suicide.
  • Aggressive behavior: Getting into physical or verbal fights.
  • Association with bullies: Friends who bully others.
  • Disciplinary issues: Frequent visits to the principal’s office or detention.
  • Unexplained possessions: Extra money or new belongings without a clear source.
  • Blaming others: Not accepting responsibility for their actions.
  • Reputation concerns: Being overly competitive and worried about popularity

Strategies and Tips for Parents to HelpParents play a key role in preventing and responding to bullying. It is important to learn what bullying is and is not, how to recognize warning signs that your child is involved in bullying (i.e. being bullied, bullying others, or witnessing bullying), how to collaborate with schools, and how to communicate with your child about the situation and seek help.

If you suspect that your child is being bullied, don't panic. Your key role is listening, calming and providing reassurance that the situation can get better when action is taken.

  • Listen and reassure them that coming to you was the right thing to do. Try and establish the facts.
  • Assure them that the bullying is not their fault and that they have people that will support them. 
  • Don't encourage retaliation to bullying - such as violent actions. Reacting that way has negative and unpredictable results-they may be hurt even further. Suggest to walk away and seek help.
  • Find out what happens next. Help your child identify what they want, what choices they have and what skills they may have to help solve the problems.
  • Discuss the situation with your child's teacher or administration. Ask about steps that can be taken to receive help and support.
  • Encourage your child to get involved in activities that build their confidence and self-esteem.

 

Volusia County School District Policies

 

Helpful Links & Resources