NEW BULLYING PREVENTION MODEL POLICY INTRODUCED TO ALL SCHOOLS

Released on November 13, 2006

Learning Minister Deb Higgins today announced that Saskatchewan's new Caring and Respectful Schools: Bullying Prevention: A Model Policy has been provided to all Saskatchewan schools.

"This new Bullying Prevention Model Policy will assist schools to strengthen their current policies and practices," Higgins said. "This policy was written in response to school divisions' requests for a definition of bullying and a model policy to enable schools, school divisions and communities across the province to work toward a common approach to the prevention and reduction of bullying."

The model policy is part of Saskatchewan Learning's Caring and Respectful Schools Initiative, introduced to Saskatchewan schools in 2004 to promote positive and safe school environments. This initiative identifies curriculum instruction resources regarding core social skills such as co-operation, assertion, responsibility, empathy and self-control as well as strategies for dealing with harassment, bullying, aggression and violence.

Key components of the new Bullying Prevention Model Policy include an outline of roles and responsibilities of boards of education, educators, parents, caregivers, students, School Community Councils and community members for preventing and reducing bullying. It also provides an outline of steps to be followed when responding to instances of bullying.

"I believe that bullying is a community problem and a serious matter that interferes with learning success and well-being of children and youth," Higgins said. "The consequences of bullying are wide ranging, not just for students but for schools, families and communities. We want to ensure that our schools remain places where students and staff alike can learn and work free from harm and bullying, and by doing this, provide a better future for our young people."

For more information regarding the new Bullying Prevention Model Policy, Caring and Respectful Schools Initiative and other related resources, visit www.learning.gov.sk.ca and select Anti-Bullying/Caring and Respectful Schools from the Teachers and School Administration menu.

National Bullying Awareness Week is recognized November 13 – 19 and the theme is "Stand Up! Be a Friend!" Schools are encouraged to engage their students to make a difference by taking a stand against bullying at school and in the community, not only during National Bullying Awareness Week but throughout the year.

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For More Information, Contact:

Jacquie McLean Learning Regina Phone: 306-787-5609 Email: jacquie.mclean@sasked.gov.sk.ca Cell: 306-535-2261