TEACHER BLOG
4 Ways to Deal with Bullying in the Classroom
Jawaher Bucheeri
07 February, 2022
Bullying in school is often hidden. Students would often bully their classmates only when the teacher isn't present or isn't paying attention. Whether it's in the hallway, during recess or in the classroom itself when the teacher isn't looking. How can we help as teachers when we are not everywhere all the time?
It all starts with teachers creating a safe and bully-free zone in their classroom. Taking steps to prevent bullying in your class can have a huge impact on improving your effectiveness as a teacher in these students' lives. I'm here to share some of the ways to deal with — or even prevent — bullying in the classroom as well as the rest of school campus.
1 - KNOW THE SCHOOL'S POLICY
It's important to educate yourself and get familiar with the school's policy — not just when you first join the school's faculty, but also at the beginning of each school year. School policies can get updated annually so always stay informed. As important as it is to stay educated on the policies, make sure you are implementing them effectively within your classroom.
2 - BE THE ROLE MODEL
It all starts with you! Students look to their teachers for guidance, inspiration and security. In order to create that safe and secure learning space, lead by example. How you treat your students will often reflect how students treat each other. So let's start there and lead with caution, kindness and empathy. Soon, students will follow your lead and your efforts will be reflected in the way your students engage and communicate with one another.
3 - TALK ABOUT IT
Build a good open foundation with your students. Communicate and connect with them as individuals, instead of as a collective student unit. Help your students understand what bullying looks like and engage in activities that help them to resolve such situations. Help them feel heard, safe and empowered to speak their mind and come to you when they're facing these issues.
4 - TAKE IMMEDIATE ACTION
If you see it, stop it! Whether it's students spreading rumors, gossiping about each other, or engaging in physical altercations, as a teacher it's your responsibility to stop any negative classroom behavior — especially bullying.
Look out for any signs or indications of bullying in your classroom. Once you see that a student is being bullied or a student is bullying a classmate, take matters into your own hands and take immediate action. Once you acknowledge it's an issue, you can create a talking culture where students feel free to talk about it.
As a teacher and educator, you have a responsibility to cultivate and encourage a safe and secure class environment. A classroom where students feel protected and safe from bullying. That means you're in charge of creating a classroom culture filled with mutual respect, cooperation, understanding and kindness. I personally think that preventing school and class bullying is extremely important. I cannot stress this enough; if you see it, stop it.
Are you interested in starting a teacher blog? Why not share your experiences as a Springring Teacher guest blogger? We're always looking to showcase teachers and help them communicate and connect. Reach out to us on marketing@myspringring.com. You can also refer a friend who is looking to share their teacher tips and expertise 🙏
WRITTEN BY
Jawaher Bucheeri
Hello, I'm Joo. I work as an English Teacher and Department Coordinator in a public school in Bahrain. My motto is, "if you're bored, so are they." I strive to connect with my students and make learning fun, meaningful and engaging.