Bullying Prevention

Sad girl and supporting friends trying to solve a problem. Two sad diverse women talking at home. Female friends supporting each other. Problems, friendship and care concept

Did you know?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 1 in 5 students ages twelve to eighteen reported being bullied at school. The impact of bullying on the school culture and climate, as well as the mental health of both the target and those who bully, is significant and the need for further understanding of how we can prevent bullying is essential.

Developed with funding from the New York State Office of Mental Health, MHANYS School Mental Health Resource & Training Center has put together a comprehensive series of resources for schools to make the connection between mental health education and bullying prevention, and information and resources for parents, caregivers, and educatorsto become more involved. We hope you find these tools helpful in creating a safe space in your schools, homes and communities.

Safe Space: Creating a Positive School Culture to Prevent Bullying (eBook)

The purpose of this publication is to help schools, families and communities identify strategies and resources to create a safe learning environment for all children; one where bullying is not given the opportunity to flourish. Instead, kindness and respect become the mainstays of the school-community culture, replacing the divisiveness that has become all too common in our society.

Download eBook

Cyberbullying: Webinar & Resources

According to Cyberbullying.org, approximately 44% of NYS students reported that they have experienced cyberbullying at some point in their lifetime. It is critical that schools, families and caregivers, and the youth understand what cyberbullying is, its impact on mental health, and how to help prevent it.

This recorded session, developed for educators, families and caregivers, will provide an understanding of cyberbullying behaviors, including frequency and impact, as well as strategies and resources for prevention.

Youth Cyberbullying: From Understanding to Prevention (Recorded Session)

Watch Recorded Session

Follow-Up Q&A

Lesson Plan for Youth: Creating a S.A.F.E. Space

A Social & Emotional Learning (SEL) Guided Lesson Plan designed to prevent bullying in schools through the advancement of SEL skills. In this presentation, students will learn about creating a supportive, accepting, friendly, and empathetic space to promote positive school culture. Throughout the presentation, each focus area is connected to Core SEL Competencies that promote mental health and safety of everyone in the school.

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Facilitator Notes

Additional Resources

Special thanks to our Bullying Prevention Project Workgroup:

Amanda Davidson
Communications Coordinator
Families Together in NYS

Amanda B. Nickerson, Ph.D., NCSP
Professor and Director, Alberti Center for Bullying Abuse Prevention
University at Buffalo, The State University of New York

Dawn Bialkowski
School Counselor
Gilboa-Conesville Central School

Dr. John Kelly
School Psychologist
New York Association of School Psychologists

Gretchen Rymarchyk, MSW, PhD
Deputy Director & Director of Research and Evaluation
Rural Schools Association of NYS

Nicole Bycina
Office of School Climate/MTSS
Buffalo Public Schools

Stephanie Fredrick, Ph.D., NCSP
Associate Director, Alberti Center for Bullying Abuse Prevention
University at Buffalo, State University of New York