Creating School Environments Free from Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying

Children in our schools need to be free of fear and distress in order to develop fully academically, socially, and emotionally. Sadly, many students have been subject to harassment, intimidation, and bullying in schools. The situation is worse when students are discriminated against or targeted for their immutable characteristics. These include, but are not limited to, sex, race, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, and ELL status. This course for Renewal Units will examine bullying through the framework of Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB) law and theory - which is the foundation of many states’ anti-bullying policies.

Montana teachers in this course will begin the course by learning about the threat of harassment, intimidation, discrimination, and bullying - and the legal and ethical responsibilities of educators to counteract these harmful acts. Teachers will also analyze various case studies to see how the issues may play out in a real-life scenario. This information and analysis include hostile acts such as bullying and hate speech, and also systemic problems that prevent access to the curriculum or programs for certain students.

The remainder of the course will focus on creating proactive steps to implement in your own classroom and school. Montana teachers will learn how to create a welcoming classroom atmosphere for all students and will create a positive classroom environment plan. You will learn about research-based practices in anti-bullying, character education, and school climate. Additionally, participants synthesis all course learning into a school wide action plan to prevent discriminatory harassment and bullying.

Overall, participation in this class will help educators foster a classroom and school environment that is free of discrimination and uplift all students. These efforts may be required and vital for students from traditionally marginalized groups - but implementation will benefit everyone in the school. The course supports the physical and emotional safety of each and every student. Each student will grow and develop best in an inclusive school where everyone is free to pursue their academic and social development free of judgment, harassment, and bullying.