Everyone is affected by bullying. The victim, the bully, and those who witness bullying suffer negative consequences. “Bullying can lead to low self-esteem, depression, isolation, and alienation in both the bully and the victim long after the incidents have ended. In addition, many victims of bullying do not want to come to school, leading to disengagement from the classroom and all that is offered by public education,” says Maryland State Superintendent of Schools Lillian Lowery.

Talk to your child about bullying. Make it clear that bullying is wrong. If you suspect your child is being bullied, report it to your child’s principal and fill out the HCPSS Bullying, Harassment, or Intimidation Reporting Form.

Read What Can you Do to Prevent Bullying and It’s Health Risks from the Maryland State Department of Education.

See how Maryland is implementing its anti-bullying policies in the Technical Assistance Bulletin for Implementing Maryland’s Model Policy to Address Bullying, Harassment, or Intimidation