Parents and students are encouraged to learn more about bullying and its effect on learning this week.
It's Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week in Ontario.
According to the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), in 2019, one in five students in Ontario reported being bullied at school.
The behavior can be demonstrated physically, verbally, socially and/or electronically and can often lead to depression, anxiety and increase the risk of suicide.
Lambton Kent District School Board Director of Education John Howitt said parents, guardians and students can share their concerns through the Student Wellness and Bullying Intervention Hotline at each school.
“It is important for students to identify and report incidents of bullying to a caring adult at home or at school as we know this behaviour can have significant impacts on a students’ ability to learn and feel safe at school,” said Howitt. "Together, we can support safe, positive and welcoming learning environments for all.”
More information about Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week can be found here.