On March 5 & 6, the ACSP EP Discipline department conducted a dynamic group activity on Fight Against Bullying to create a safer community for everyone. Thirty teachers attended the activity and shared their ideas and perspectives about the matter, based on their observations and personal experiences inside the classroom.
The teachers were divided into three groups. Each group discussed the question assigned to them and later shared a summary of their answers with the group. The topics were:

1. Reflect upon times when you observed bullying inside your class. What behaviors could you identify and how did you respond?
2. What interventions or strategies can you use to prevent or stop bullying? What level of support would assist you in taking these actions?
3. In your observation, what are the disruptive factors that hinder you from stopping bullying incidents and how can you overcome the challenges that these factors present?

At the end of the activity, the teachers emphasized the importance of several key points to prevent bullying. These were: teaching kindness and empathy, allowing the students to talk about their differences, and building their understanding of those around them. Next, creating opportunities for connection to foster a sense of community inside the classroom, to make the students feel that there is a safe space between the teacher and themselves and that it’s okay to share their burdens and problems. Lastly, encourage everyone to speak up when they witness bullying and to take a stand against it, to protect the mental and emotional health of every individual in the school community.
The English Program would like to thank all the teachers who attended the activity. Your compassion and involvement in the Fight Against Bullying project is appreciated.