Schools see slight decline in physical bullying, increase in cyber bullying

OZARK — What once seemed an easier and more modern way to communicate with middle and high school classmates has in some cases turned into another method of bullying.

Local school officials said they are seeking ways to address an increase in “cyber bullying,” which can take place when threatening messages are sent through social networks like Facebook or via text messages and other electronic devices.

Ozark City Schools Superintendent Mike Lenhart said the system has methods within its positive behavior support plan to address bullying in general, but that the system was still reviewing how to be more aggressive against cyber bullying.

“We’ve seen somewhat of a decline in teasing and hitting or other physical bullying, but our ability to address cyber bullying is in a newer stage,” Lenhart said.

According to the U.S. Department of Education and Department of Justice, Alabama and Kentucky laws may prohibit cyber bullying through anti-harassment legislation that grants education officials certain authority in dealing with the issue.

Alabama law required school districts to develop district bullying policies by 2010, according to the department. Both Ozark City and Dale County Schools have implemented an anti-harassment policy that parents can follow if they are concerned about their child being bullied at school.

But unlike other states, Alabama law does not hold school personnel liable in reporting bullying and instead gives sole responsibility of reporting bullying to the affected student or parent or guardian, according to the education department.

Dale County Schools Superintendent Donny Bynum said the system must continually educate personnel on the signs of bullying and inform both students and parents that law enforcement could get involved in extreme circumstances.

“We have to make sure our administrators, faculty and staff are supervising students in all situations and are trained in what to look for. The hardest type of bullying for us as school officials to control is cyber bullying,” Bynum said.

“Students need to realize when they use social networks or texting that there can be severe consequences if inappropriate remarks are made. If parents are concerned about their child being bullied, they need to discuss it with school officials.”

Lenhart said a positive behavior support plan is also in place in Ozark schools to address physical or emotional bullying. He said the plan involves encouraging students who are being bullied to ignore the aggressor.

The plan also involves seeking guidance for the aggressor or “bully” through courses in outside agencies that deal with life skills or teach students how to interact with peers.

Lenhart said student government associations also address bullying with fliers or meetings that encourage more positive role models instead of aggression.

Types of Cyberbullying:

Sending hurtful, rude, or mean text messages to others

Spreading rumors or lies about others by e-mail or on social networks

Creating websites, videos or social media profiles that embarrass, humiliate, or make fun of others

Source: www.stopbullying.gov

Effects of Cyberbullying:

Be unwilling to attend school

Receive poor grades

Have lower self-esteem

Have more health problems

Use alcohol and drugs

Skip school