What is Bullying?

There are often misconceptions regarding the definition of bullying. Some behaviors and/or actions that do not meet the definition of bullying are often times referred to as bullying. Three specific characteristics that identify bullying are as follows:

• The behavior must be repeated. Bullying does not just happen once
• The bullying is intentional and intended to harm
• The bullying is directed to someone with less power

The Duval County Public School policy 10.2 defines bullying as systematically and chronically inflicting physical hurt or psychological distress on one or more students. It is further defined as unwanted, purposeful and repeated written, verbal, nonverbal, electronic or physical behavior, by a student or adult, that is severe or pervasive enough to create an intimidating, hostile or offensive educational environment; cause discomfort or humiliation; or unreasonably interfere with the individual’s school performance or participation; and is characterized by an imbalance of power.

Sources: Colorado, 2004, The Ophelia Project, 2012

How to Report Bullying

DCPS takes all reported acts of bullying seriously. In accordance with Florida Statute 1006.147, “The Jeffrey Johnston Stand Up for All Students Act”, the Duval County School Board adopted Anti-Bullying Policy 10.20 to address bullying in the district. Bullying should be reported to the designated school administrator and investigations of alleged incidents will be investigated at the school-level.

Incidents of bullying or harassment can be reported in multiple ways:

• Contacting the school principal/assistant principal directly by phone, email, or in person.
• Calling 904-390-2255
• Texting at 390Call@Duvalschools.org