November 19-25 is Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week.
The Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board holds sacred the view that each child is created in the image of God. Every student has the right to be safe and to feel respected in and around their Catholic school community. Guided by the teachings of Our Lord, Jesus Christ, the HWCDSB is committed to school environments where each member feels valued, respected, and has a sense of belonging with the goal of enabling all learners to realize the fullness of humanity.
The HWCDSB recognizes that bullying is detrimental to the entire school community. Bullying impacts not solely the victim, but also the one who bullies as well as the bystander. Bullying can lead to more long-term social and emotional problems. Bullying, including cyber bullying, is a serious issue and is not tolerated in a Catholic school environment, at school-related activities, on or off school property.
Ontario has designated the week beginning on the third Sunday of November as Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week to help promote safe schools and a positive learning environment.
During Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week, Ontario students, school staff and parents are encouraged to learn more about bullying and its effect on student learning and well-being. Schools are encouraged to use this opportunity to explain the different forms that bullying can take.