Name-calling, excluding someone, giving “the silent treatment”, hitting, spreading rumors, or embarrassing someone in public are all examples of bullying. This year, more than ever, mental health is one of our primary concerns. According to the Canadian Institute of Health Research, a 2019 study found that 47% of Canadian parents report having a child victim of bullying.
Both victims and perpetrators of bullying need our support and guidance. Victims often feel lonely, isolated, and unsafe. Bullying can lead to depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and physical illness. Those who do the bullying often feel a sense of inferiority, lack of belonging and low self-esteem leading them to victimize others to make themselves feel better. Both those who bully and those who are bullied are at higher risk of suicide.
At CDSBEO, we are committed to working together to tackle bullying. From initiatives such as Proactive Classroom Circles and Restorative Practices to resources such as our Creating Communities of Peace school booklet, our school board strives to ensure that all students feel safe and secure. If students are
struggling, it is important that they know they are not alone. One resource that is always at their disposal 24/7 is the Kids Help Phone. Bullying is one of the most common reasons that children and youth reach out to Kids Help Phone for support. For more information about what our school board is doing to prevent bullying, please visit our CDSBEO Anti Bullying page.
The CDSBEO Curriculum and Religious Education Departments, in collaboration with our Mental Health Lead, developed a variety of resources and activities to build awareness and prevention of bullying including a school-wide "Odd Sock Day" on Friday, November 20th, 2020