WCPSS School Counselors to Heighten Efforts around Bullying Prevention

Nov. 17, 2011 –In light of the recent events that occurred in Columbus County involving the bullying of an elementary school student, school counselors within the Wake County Public School System are stepping up their efforts to educate students about bullying and bullying prevention.

Bullying is defined as behavior involving an imbalance of power or strength intended to cause harm and repeated over time. Cyber bullying is an aggressive, intentional act carried out by a group or individual, using electronic forms of contact, repeatedly and over time.

WCPSS Board Policy 6414 specifically prohibits harassing or bullying behavior. The policy states that it is the priority of the Wake County Board of Education to provide every student with a safe and orderly learning environment. All complaints of harassing or bullying behavior made by students shall be promptly and thoroughly investigated by the principal or designee. Violations of this policy shall be considered misconduct and will result in disciplinary action up to and including long-term suspension or expulsion in the case of students

School counselors will be incorporating actions and lessons around bullying in their presentations to students in the coming weeks.

Parents can find more information about bullying on our website including ways they can help if they suspect their child is a victim of bullying.