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Elementary Schooll's Bully-Proof Program

Hudsonville Christian Elementary School has a Bully-Proofing Program in response to a trend in many schools and parent encouragement to address the issue, but most of all, because of what kind of school we wish to be.

Do we have a big problem with bullying at Hudsonville Christian? No. Not any more than at any other school. Yet there are incidents every week which need attention, and as a school we recognize bullying can happen. It is wrong and unacceptable. It goes against what our school is about, which is to care for and value people as imagebearers of God.

One component of our programis to teach about bullying and intervention strategies each year. Our students also learn that bystanders play a vital role. Both the elementary and middle school staffs continue to further develop and coordinate our Bully Proof program in both schools.

Bullying is too serious to ignore. Even when it appears that it is minimal, children need to be trained to eliminate offensive behaviors, and to have the courage to speak up for those who are unable to do so for themselves. Every child has a right to feel safe at school. A consistent approach to this issue, respecting everyone, and involving the community of school and parents is one way we can live up to our middle name at Hudsonville Christian School.

When bullying occurs:

1. Students will use the Walk Your Talk steps (Stop • Listen • Talk • Agree)
2. If the problem is not resolved, teachers will intervene and personal apologies will be made, face to face whenever possible.
3. The offender will be asked to sit out (not inside) during recess time in a designated area. (Benches on the gravel.)
4. The offender will be given a warning about calling home if it happens again.
5. If the action is intentional and serious, teachers use their discretion to call home at first offense.
6. At second offense, see steps 1 - 3, inform principal who will speak to the party(ies) involved, and parents will be called. In any instance that a parent is called, consider having the student report the incident over the phone to the parent in your presence.
7. For repeat offenses
   • documentation must be noted by the principal in the student's cumulative file. A form will be developed for this.
   • follow the above steps 1 - 3, and in consultation with the administration include one of the following:
   • In-school suspension for the rest of the day
   • parents called to come and take student home.
   • Parents called to pick student up for suspension of a day or more.