Per DPS Policy JIDCE and JICD, “Bullying is prohibited against any student for any reason, including but not limited to any such behavior that is directed toward a student on the basis of their academic performance or any basis protected by federal and state law or District policy, including race, color, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, transgender status, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability, whether such characteristic(s) is actual or perceived.”
Anti-Bullying at Inspire Elementary
Bullying. It is a heavy word with a lot of emotion attached to it. We hear it often from students, adults, social media, etc. But what does it really mean?
Our staff has discussed this during Professional Development and we also discuss it with students. As a staff we brainstorm together bullying behaviors we have witnessed or experienced and then we spend time learning more about bullying. Inspire staff watched a clip from this DPS Podcast on Bullying Prevention and we also looked at information provided by Learning for Justice about bullying. In the classroom, students participate in activities that vary depending on teacher and/or grade level – it could be a story, a you tube short, or something similar. Then classes hold a discussion to determine if our initial ideas really under the definition of bullying presented.
What is bullying?
According to Learning for Justice there are 3 key components that must be present in order to be class (these are in line with the district definition as well):
Bullying is not:
After brainstorming ideas and learning more about bullying, we discover that many, if not most, behaviors identified were not actually bullying. They can be mean. They can be rude. But that does not make them bullying. Bullying is an ongoing, serious issue that must be dealt with accordingly. Instances of mean or rude behavior need to be addressed accordingly as well.
At Inspire, we handle mean and rude behaviors or conflict through restorative conversations and/or conflict resolution practices (Peace Path and A Bug and A Wish). Ongoing conflicts that may escalate to bullying are handled by our whole child team. In either scenario, both students are supported in ways to repair harm and facilitate social emotional growth. We work to address underlying factors and meet each student where they are with their learning and growth. In all cases, it takes support, time and practice to improve skills and achieve desired growth.
We take bullying claims seriously and approach each situation with a focus on restoration and growth. We investigate every report and prioritize a restorative approach, recognizing that these are children who are still learning and growing. It is our responsibility to guide and support them rather than simply punish, helping them understand the impact of their actions and encouraging positive behavior. If incidents recur despite these efforts, we escalate our support and follow the DPS Discipline Matrix to ensure that disciplinary actions are applied fairly and consistently. This balanced approach allows us to maintain a safe and respectful environment while fostering understanding and accountability among students.
Research shows that there is a strong correlation between bias and bullying. Therefore, the most effective tool we have is to create a learning environment that supports all students and creates a community that does not support bullying. Inspire does this through the following programs: Restorative Practices, Conflict Management Tools, SEL Curriculum, BESS Screener, Referrals to Whole Child Team. If you, as a parent, have a concern we encourage you to first talk with your child and then your child’s teacher to work to resolve the issue. If you have continuing concerns you are welcome to contact the whole child team and/or administration. Additional Resources: Safe2Tell Colorado & Colorado Department of Education Bullying Prevention Resources.
Additional resources and information from DPS on Bullying:
DPS School Culture & Bullying Prevention Website
Differentiating Bullying
For Guardians: Child Who Is Bullying
For Guardians: Child Who Is Being Bullied