National Bullying Awareness and Prevention Month

It's hard to believe, but it is already October, which is also

Bullying Awareness 
and Prevention Month! 

We in the Gorham Schools wish to create a culture of respect and safety for EVERYONE. We pledge to create a positive school climate and ensure our school is a safe and welcoming place.

It is important for parents, staff and students to Recognize, Report, and Refuse bullying. Throughout October, students in grades K-2 social skills classes will be participating in Steps to Respect lessons that focus on building friendships and developing the skills needed to be good citizens. The lessons are designed to prevent bullying and help students build more supportive relationships with each other. The messages we share are below.
Bullying Is:

• A person being hurt, harmed or humiliated with words or behavior.
• Sometimes repeated behavior, but it can be a single incident as well.
• Being done intentionally.
• One sided. Bullying is not conflict.
• Unfair. There is an imbalance of power.
• When the person being hurt cannot ignore, walk away from, or stop the problem.

We encourage our students to be up-standers, by sharing the idea:
                                  If you see something that is wrong, do something to help make it right. 

• Don’t ever join in bullying.
• Support the victim. Show your concern and offer kindness!
• Stand with the victim and say something.
• Reach out to others in friendship.
• Report bullying to an adult.

If we respect and appreciate one another, by following the Code of Conduct, Gorham Schools will be safe and bully free. 

Be Respectful! Be polite. Appreciate the differences in others.

Be Compassionate! Be sensitive to the perspectives, needs and feelings of others.

Be Courageous! Don't be afraid to be YOU! Stand up for yourself and others.

Be Responsible! YOU are responsible for your choices and your actions.

Be Honest! If you make a mistake, own it. 

There are many great websites for information, here are a few we suggest:
Recommended Children's Books
Stomp Out Bullying
Pacer's National Bullying Prevention Center
Stop Bullying. Gov
2nd Step Resources

If you ever have any questions of concerns, 
please reach out.

We care about our students and want every child to feel safe and welcome. ♡