School safety, security, and violence prevention resource

Bullying is something that we all have dealt with or have to deal with. It has been around for as long as anyone can remember, in various forms. That does not mean that we have to put up with though, right? That is why conferences such as the Fifth Annual Conference of the International Bullying Prevention Association are held.

This particular conference is being held in Indianapolis and started yesterday. It will end today, Friday. Vic Ryckaert has this report:

Representatives from India, Scotland and Norway are attending the conference held at the Sheraton Indianapolis Hotel & Suites, 8787 Keystone Crossing, said Clarissa Snapp, director of the Indiana School Safety Specialist Academy and a conference organizer.

“Bullying is usually what we call repeated acts or gestures that are used to make fun of, humiliate or intimidate another person,” said Clarissa Snapp, director of the Indiana School Safety Specialist Academy and an organizer of the conference.

While bullying can turn into an assault or battery, Snapp said the weapons of choice are often eye rolls or mocking gestures.

“We’re talking about the types of behaviors that are emotionally damaging,” Snapp said.

The conference is designed to share methods and resources aimed at eliminating bullying behaviors in schools and in the workplace.

First thoughts – I am very happy that people are not overlooking bullying. It is something that happens everyday and has a great impact on any kid. Though not all children who have been bullied are hurt physically, the psychological impact may stay with them for the rest of their lives. Notice that the people involved in the conference also see this thing and they are actually focusing on the effects of bullying other than the physical aspects.

Another thing that I think is worth noting about this conference is the fact that not only people from the US are involved. If you noticed, the report mentioned representatives from other countries. Though there are only a handful of other countries represented in this conference, it is a good start. Perhaps next time, there will be more.

Lastly, this conference is not limited to school bullying – workplace bullying is part of it as well. Though this blog is focused on school issues, it doesn’t mean that we should close our eyes to other points such as workplace bullying. After all, who says that teachers are not bullied as well?

I really hope that something concrete comes out of this conference.

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