Parent Talk by Dorman Jackson - December 16, 2009

Treating Self and Others with Respect

The Sabine Parish School District takes this opportunity to remind parents, guardians and families about the toll that bullying behaviors bring with them. It is important for adults to remind the young people of our community that treating self, and others, with respect helps to minimize the consequences associated with bullying and at the same time, ensures safe and comfortable environments in our classrooms and schools, on our school buses, and in our homes.

Bullying is known to be a devastating form of abuse credited for having long-term negative effects that rob children, teenagers, and adults of their self-esteem. It also isolates them from their peers and they may become reluctant to go to school or even drop out. Bullying can trigger health problems and if not addressed at home and by professionals can lead to suicide. Although they may use different tactics, both girls and boys bully and are also victims.

It is important to clearly understand the behaviors that are considered bullying. Based on the extensive work of an anti-bullying task force, it is described as:

The intentional, repeated, unprovoked, and hurtful behavior committed by one or more individuals against another. These negative acts may be physical, verbal, emotional, or sexual in nature, and involve actions, messages, words, or other behaviors such as name calling, intimidating/threatening, serious slandering, or exclusion. Most often, an imbalance of power exists between the bully and victim.

Bullying continues to be a problem at all age and grade levels. A team effort is needed to change the culture and climate of our homes, schools, and neighborhoods. By working together, students, parents, teachers, administrators, mental health other support staff, and members of the community can minimize bullying. We are confident that such an effort will further support our commitment to excellence and student achievement.

Bullying is a serious issue that can have a profound impact of student and adult success. I believe that if individuals treat themselves, and others, with respect they will in turn be treated with respect and bullying will decline. Together, we share the responsibility for protecting everyone against bullying. When adults take a strong stand against bullying and discourage hurtful behaviors, we will enjoy a higher level of positive experiences both in and out of school.