Solutions
So whose problem is it anyway? It seems clear that given cyber bullying happens 24/7, it is everyone’s problem! No one should try to avoid taking ownership. The following are feasible, cost effective solutions to some of the issues surrounding cyber bullying.
1. WGSS should develop a specific Anti-Cyber Bullying Policy. Currently, there is an Anti-Harassment Anti-Bullying Policy. The policy does not clearly address cyber bullying so not only is it difficult to find policy information, it also does not bring much attention to the issue. It would seem such an important issue as cyber bullying should have a separate policy.
2. WGSS should develop an Anti-Harassment Committee in addition to the Harassment Club. This committee should report to the Langley School District Committee and would help to increase the profile of cyber bullying and give more awareness to this issue.
3. WGSS should require all teachers read the policy and sign a document as part of their employment that says they have read it.
4. All students should be required, at the beginning of each year, to read the policy and sign that they have read, understand and agree to it.
5. Training, education and events about cyber bullying should take place throughout the year. It is not enough to do it once a year!
6. WGSS staff and students should become vocal advocates supporting more research into how to prevent cyber bullying.
7. WGSS should focus on initiatives that improve relationships between students given that Choice Theory shows that cyber
bullies have problems with relationships and acceptance.
8. Langley School District should expand their anti-bullying initiatives to early elementary school as the problems
to early elementary school as the problem starts early.