Bullying is a widespread problem with harmful—sometimes tragic—consequences. As the school year gets into full swing, now is the perfect time to focus on reclaiming the promise of public education for all children by creating safe and welcoming learning environments. There are many ways to engage in bullying prevention and intervention; each approach will necessarily take into consideration the differing needs of your students. Below are a few ways for you and your members to participate.

Tell us about bullying prevention in your community

The AFT takes school safety seriously, and we would like to know how we can support you and your members in your efforts to promote safer, more supportive schools and communities. Please take this short survey to tell us about your bullying prevention efforts and where you could use help. Feel free to share the link with your membership for them to complete.

Visit the AFT’s bullying prevention webpage for FAQs, classroom activities, booklists and more

Distribute AFT materials

The AFT offers free bullying prevention materials to affiliates, including brochures, posters and “See a Bully, Stop a Bully” wristbands. Consider holding a bullying prevention event at your school and having each student sign a pledge to work to stop bullying (for ideas on how to hold such an event, see this guide from our partner PACER). After students sign the pledge, give them wristbands to wear to signify their dedication to helping make their school a more tolerant place. Be sure to wear your own band to signify your commitment to safe and inclusive learning environments, and that you are available to help them deal with bullying or harassment. We also have colorful posters available for you to hang in your school or classroom to raise bullying awareness and brochures you can distribute to fellow educators. Click here for descriptions of available materials, and how to order.

Download resources from Share My Lesson

SML has some wonderful bullying prevention and intervention materials, including a collection of some of our favorite resources on the topic. Do you have ideas or resources you would be willing to share with educators throughout the country? Be sure to upload them to Share My Lesson!

Screen Bully in your classroom or at your school

The movie Bully has captured the hearts and minds of students and adults across the nation, offering a window into the damage bullying can cause. The Bully Project has a wonderful toolkit with materials and a DVD (including a version of the video that is appropriate for younger audiences). Educators who thoroughly complete this short surveywill receive a kit for FREE, while supplies last (feel free to share this survey with any AFT member who works with students).