LEGISLATION

A great deal can be done about school bullying at the state level. Legislators can earmark funds for bullying prevention, encourage school leaders to provide training for students and staff, and highlight the importance of including anti-bullying policies in efforts to create safer schools. During the 2000-2001 legislative sessions, for example, several states either debated or adopted legislation requiring school districts to develop anti-bullying policies. Although provisions vary from state to state, most legislation covers the following:

• Acknowledges that if students are to learn and achieve to high standards, they must feel safe and secure at school
• Advises state departments of education to develop model anti-bullying policies and prevention programs to share with school districts

• Mandates individual school districts to develop and implement anti-bullying policies and/or programs, and to report those policies and programs to the state education department