Bullying Prevention and Intervention
What middle school students need to know.
In May of 2010, the state of Massachusetts took steps to protect all students from unwanted, aggressive behavior by passing anti-bullying legislation. The Massachusetts anti-bullying law prohibits bullying on school grounds, buses, and activities and requires that schools take steps to report and respond to bullying. The town of Belmont and the Belmont Public Schools developed a plan to educate students about bullying and to let you know what you should do if you experience or witness bullying behaviors at school.
It is the expectation of the Belmont Public Schools that every student, parent, and staff member is familiar with the Bullying Prevention and Intervention Plan.
Bullying Incident Reporting Form
I think I am being bullied or someone I know is being bullied. What should I do?
The information provided below is a summary of the process outlined in the Bullying Prevention and Intervention Plan. Please refer to the complete Plan for additional information.
If you are a student:
Tell an adult you feel comfortable talking to. Your parent, teacher, guidance counselor, principal, assistant principal, and coach are all examples of adults who can listen to what you’re experiencing and help you respond to the situation. This is not something you should handle by yourself.
Complete a Bullying Incident Reporting Form. Forms are available online and in school in the main office, the guidance office, and the nurse’s office. This is something you can complete on your own or with one of the adults mentioned above. You do not need to include your name on the reporting form, but it is helpful if you do. You should submit the reporting form to the main office or the guidance office once it is completed. It is important to note that the principal or assistant principal at your school will investigate all reported incidents of bullying and retaliation, but no disciplinary action will be taken against an alleged aggressor based solely on an anonymous report.
If you are a parent or guardian:
Share your concerns with your child’s guidance counselor, assistant principal, or principal.
Complete a Bullying Incident Reporting Form
Complaints regarding Belmont Public Schools not responding appropriately to bullying allegations may be investigated through the Problem Resolution System Office. Emails can be sent to compliance@doe.mass.edu or individuals can call 781-338-3700.