We are dedicated to making Notre Dame Catholic School a safe, nurturing, and an inclusive learning environment. Bullying, in any form, is unacceptable and is not tolerated on our campus.
Verbal or written threats made against the physical or emotional well-being of any individual are taken very seriously. Any behavior deemed by the school administration to be considered as bullying shall result in disciplinary actions, which may include suspension or expulsion from school. Parents will be notified and a meeting scheduled for any reported bullying related incidents. Consequences will be progressive and aligned to the offense.
Bullying is defined as any overt action by a student or group of students directed against another student with the intent to ridicule, humiliate, or intimidate the other student while on school grounds or at a school sponsored activity. These acts are repeated against the same student over time. Bullying includes intimidation or assault; extortion; oral, written or electronic threats; teasing; ‘putdowns’, name-calling; threatening looks, gestures or actions; cruel rumors; false accusation; and social isolation.
Notre Dame Catholic School recognizes that parents are the first and primary educators of their children. Please have a conversation with your child about our Bullying Policy.
The bullying policy of Notre Dame Catholic School is based on Roman Catholic principles and ideals, and recognizes the dignity and worth of each student. We encourage compassionate behavior between students, our administration and faculty, and our entire campus community. We utilize a schoolwide social, emotional, learning (SEL) prevention program which includes instruction from Kimochi, Second STEP, Common Sense and Real Essentials. When it is necessary to use corrective measures, the action taken is to be based on an understanding of the student and the particulars of the situation as well as school guidance procedures.
What is “Bullying”?
1. Name calling
2. Saying or writing nasty things about another person
3. Excluding others
4. Threatening others
5. Making others feel uncomfortable or scared
6. Taking or damaging another’s belongings
7. Hitting, kicking, or pushing of any form
8. Making others do things they do not want to do
Some people think bullying is just part of growing up and a way for young people to learn to stick up for themselves. However, bullying can make young people feel lonely, unhappy, frightened and unsafe. The target of these offenses often lose confidence and may not want to attend school any more. It may even make them feel sick.
What will happen if a Charge of Bullying is made?
• There will be a prompt investigation by the teacher and/or the administration based on the seriousness of the allegation.
• Appropriate discipline of the student(s) shall occur if the allegation is found to be valid as determined by the teacher and/or administration.
Consequences for Bullying
Notre Dame Catholic School will impose consequences for students who are determined by the teacher and/or administration as having bullied another student. Our progressive discipline regime is intended to deter future bullying and encourage compassionate behavior towards others.
INCIDENT REPORT
The following private digital form below may be used to report a bullying incident by a student, teacher, staff, parent or witness. You may also print this page from your web browser, complete the form and forward to the school office. An administrator will respond to reports submitted within 3 business days. Please send any additional evidence (i.e. screen shots, photos, videos, etc.) directly to our school principal Ellen Kenalty at [email protected].