"If we are to reach real peace in the world, we shall have to begin with the children." - Mahatma Gandhi

Bullying is a serious and pervasive problem in schools across the country. Various studies estimate that 15-20% percent of all students are victimized by bullies at some point in their school career. And, according to the National Youth Violence Prevention Resource Center, almost one in three children nationwide is involved in bullying either as a bully or victim.

Despite the prevalence of bullying and the severe consequences it can have for its victims as well as for those who are bystanders, schools frequently do not give it the attention it deserves. Bullying, however, is a problem that will not go away if ignored.

Fortunately, Tucson Unified School District has a zero-tolerance policy and a variety of strategies to prevent and/or decrease this problem. As with many problems within schools, it is more effective to prevent bullying than to wait for an incident to occur and then deal with it and the potential repercussions.

Tucson Unified School District is committed to End Bullying Now. In service of this goal, we offer the following resources:

• Bullying Prevention Intervention Specialist: Conducts training for leadership and staff. Conducts workshops for parents and anti-bullying assemblies for students. Monitors incidents reports. Investigates unresolved bullying complaints. Tracks and documents the resolution of bullying and conflict investigations.
• Bullying Prevention Professional Development Training: Professional Development Training for District Staff to provide knowledge, understanding, and proven strategies.
• Anti-bullying Pledge: A means for students to pledge to stand up against bullying and harassing behavior.
• Bullying Incident Form: Available on the Intranet for teachers, counselors, and principals to report bullying
• Bullying Tip Line: Available on the district website for victims or witnesses of bullying to report any concerns.
• Bullying Awareness Month every October: Month-long activities at all district schools to promote anti-bullying and a culture that stands against bullying.
• IMPACT Tucson: District-sponsored Anti-Bullying Conference for educating staff, students, community, and families.

Bullying ends here. If you see or hear bullying, report it through our Tip Line.