Expect Respect: Stop Bullying Now!

McPherson's Pledge:

I will do everything I can personally, as a member of my school’s community, to create and preserve a physically and emotionally safe environment.  As a member of the McPherson Community, I will strive to treat everyone with respect, regardless of any differences.

Bullying is like spouse abuse or sexual harassment in that it:

• Is done by someone with more power or social support to someone with less power or social support;
• Often includes the abuser blaming the target for the abuse;
• Often leads to the target blaming him or herself for the abuse;
• In most bullying situations, the target cannot (and should not be expected to) stop the bullying by his or her own actions.
• Is repeated and ongoing

The following comes from www.stopbullying.gov:

Recognizing Warning Signs:

There are many warning signs that could indicate that someone is involved in bullying, either by bullying others or by being bullied.  However, these warning signs may indicate other issues or problems, as well.  

Being Bullied

• Comes home with damaged or missing clothing or other belongings
• Reports losing items such as books, electronics, clothing, or jewelry
• Has unexplained injuries
• Complains frequently of headaches, stomachaches, or feeling sick
• Has trouble sleeping or has frequent bad dreams
• Has changes in eating habits
• Hurts themselves
• Are very hungry after school from not eating their lunch
• Runs away from home
• Loses interest in visiting or talking with friends
• Is afraid of going to school or other activities with peers
• Loses interest in school work or begins to do poorly in school
• Appears sad, moody, angry, anxious or depressed when they come home
• Talks about suicide
• Feels helpless
• Often feels like they are not good enough
• Blames themselves for their problems
• Suddenly has fewer friends
• Avoids certain places
• Acts differently than usual

Bullying Others

• Becomes violent with others
• Gets into physical or verbal  fights with others
• Gets sent to the principal’s office or detention a lot
• Has extra money or new belongings that cannot be explained
• Is quick to blame others
• Will not accept responsibility for their actions
• Has friends who bully others
• Needs to win or be best at everything

McPherson's Response