An anti-bullying flag flies at Charlottetown City Hall. File Photo by Pratik Bhattarai /The GuardianArticle contentNo more excuses, no more bystanders. It’s time for Prince Edward Island to stop the bull and confront a hard truth: bullying remains a serious problem in our homes, neighbourhoods and schools.THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY.Subscribe now to access this story and more:Unlimited access to the website and appExclusive access to premium content, newsletters and podcastsFull access to the e-Edition app, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment onEnjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalistsSupport local journalists and the next generation of journalistsSUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES.Subscribe or sign in to your account to continue your reading experience.Unlimited access to the website and appExclusive access to premium content, newsletters and podcastsFull access to the e-Edition app, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment onEnjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalistsSupport local journalists and the next generation of journalistsRegister to unlock more articles.Create an account or sign in to continue your reading experience.Access additional stories every monthShare your thoughts and join the conversation in our commenting communityGet email updates from your favourite authorsSign In or Create an AccountorArticle contentThe latest Compass survey shows that 30 per cent of P.E.I. students report being bullied each year. This figure hasn’t budged over the last three years and sits 10-12 per cent above the national average experienced by students elsewhere in Canada. Whether it’s verbal attacks, physical aggression, cyberbullying, or even sexual harassment, the reality is clear. Too many of our children still experience harm, exclusion and intimidation in their daily lives.Article contentArticle contentArticle contentChildren’s well-being and ability to learn hinge or depend on decisions we make now.Article contentArticle contentModel respectful behaviourArticle contentThe solution begins at home and continues in every classroom. As parents and caregivers, our responsibility is more than just reaction. We must model the respectful and kind behaviour we wish to see in our children. We must foster open conversations about bullying and offer support when warning signs arise, like sudden anxiety, falling grades, missing clothes or reluctance to attend school.Article contentSchools must also work at building resilience in our children, teaching them how to manage emotions and resolve conflict peacefully, inspired by proven approaches like those promoted by Brooks Gibbs. Supporting our kids to calmly stand up for themselves and their peers is not just a teaching strategy; it’s a future-building life skill we can all learn.Article contentArticle contentThe P.E.I. Home and School Federation calls for ongoing vigilance and action from educators, staff and families. Teachers should proactively recognize and address bullying, enforce anti-bullying policies, and partner with organizations like Bullying Canada for expert intervention and classroom guidance. Staff training and community workshops are crucial.Article contentArticle contentLet’s commit together not only to responding when bullying occurs but to creating safe, welcoming environments where every child feels valued and supported. The stakes couldn’t be higher. Our children’s well-being and mental health depend on the actions we take today. It is time for all of us to stop the bull once and for all.Article contentArticle contentHome and school AGMArticle contentP.E.I.’s Home and School Federation’s April annual general meeting is dedicated to stopping the bull. We invite you to our general meeting: all parents, caregivers, teachers and staff at schools in the Public Schools Branch are members of the Home and School Federation. Let them know you want to attend our annual meeting. Each local may send up to five voting members but can sponsor as many as would like to attend.
DAVID SCHULT: Bullying needs to end in P.E.I.
