Parents have an overwhelming desire to protect their children from harm. The child’s safety is primary, from child-proofing the home to ensuring a helmet is snugly in place before riding a bike.
While we wish we could be with them all the time, eventually, we need to send them to school and rely on the teachers and school administration to educate and protect them.
The impact of bullying
It’s crushing for any parent to hear their child is the target of a school bully. For the child, it’s much worse. It can severely impact their emotional and psychological health, leading to a range of negative emotions, including fear, anxiety and depression.
Bullied children often become socially withdrawn and avoid interactions with peers to escape further victimization. This isolation can result in loneliness and a lack of social skills. It also affects their academic performance. The stress and anxiety caused by bullying can make it difficult for the child to concentrate in school.
Schools must implement and enforce anti-bullying policies and train teachers to recognize and address bullying.
But what if you feel that the school isn’t dealing with their bullying problem?
First, make sure you are documenting everything. Keep detailed records of all incidents of bullying, including dates, times, locations and any communications you have had with teachers, school counselors and administrators about your concerns. If your initial communications don’t lead to a resolution, consider bringing the issue to the attention of the school district superintendent or school board.
If the school district continues to be unresponsive, you may consider filing an Article 78 proceeding to challenge the school’s handling of the situation. This allows for a judicial review of the school’s actions to see if they complied with legal standards and anti-bullying policies. You will want to work with someone who can help you understand your options and guide you through the process if you decide to move forward with Article 78.
The most important thing throughout this process is ensuring your child feels supported at home and providing them with the tools they need to cope with the emotional impact of bullying.