As we approach the month of November, we again turn our attention more directly toward the prevention of bullying in schools. Bullying awareness initiatives have become increasingly important in our schools and communities. At Rowntree Montessori Schools, our anti-bullying initiatives have been very well received, and we continue to be mindful of them every day.
In the first week of November, during our annual bullying prevention week, several activities will be aimed at increasing awareness of bullying in all its contexts. This includes challenges faced when encountering bullying, both in person and online, as well as reinforcing the identification and prevention steps to which we are all committed. Assemblies, classroom assignments, and presentations by our RMAAC (Rowntree Montessori Athletic and Academic Council) student leaders will be scheduled so that every student and staff member in the school has a chance to stay up to date with current initiatives, and address any concerns or questions they may have. Additionally, we are also happy to welcome our designated Peel Police Constable from the Youth Education Bureau to take part in presenting workshops for all students, ranging in topics from “Everyday Hero” through “Kind is Cool” and “Cyber Citizenship”.
At RMS, we strive to create a respectful learning environment where students are taught the benefits of kindness, consideration, and inclusiveness. These are school-wide beliefs, and we enforce these behaviours all year long. Bullying prevention week allows us the opportunity to work with our staff and students, as well as parents and the community, to consider new strategies for the prevention of bullying.
A wealth of information on our policy and its implementation can be found in our “Parent/Student Handbook”, but we would also recommend having a look at a couple of great, recently published articles; one from the Ontario College of Teachers “Professionally Speaking”, and the other from “Edutopia”.
http://oct-oeeo.uberflip.com/i/461668-ps-march-2015
http://www.edutopia.org/blog/cultivate-a-bully-free-community-megan-mccarter
We encourage all and particularly parents to consistently build your child’s confidence at home through positive energy and feedback, and encourage open conversation on the topic of bullying prevention everywhere!
We look forward to seeing you and sharing with you the private school community of which we are so proud!
To learn more about Rowntree Montessori Schools (RMS), continue browsing our website and ideally drop by any of our 5 welcoming, friendly and family oriented campuses for a personal tour anytime Monday-Friday 9:00am-3:00pm. If you prefer, call to book an appointment for a personal tour anytime Monday-Friday 9:00am-3:00pm.
More details about Rowntree Montessori Schools‘ approach to education can be seen by clicking here.
