Focus is on stopping bullying in and out of schools

By The Globe Gazette, Mason City

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In recent years we've published several editorials and numerous letters about the problem of bullying.

We recently published a three-part series on bullying and how it has expanded in its implementation and reach.

It's a problem that, unfortunately, has demanded and will continue to demand a lot of time and attention throughout our communities - a problem that there really isn't a solution to. But we have to keep trying to minimize its effects.

Our recent series showed how bullying has gone high-tech through the use of the Internet and cell phones. Instead of a black eye or cut lip from a bully's punch, victims of cyberbulling are often left with emotional scars - which may take much longer to heal, if they ever do.

Much bullying occurs with school-age children, so it's good to see that parents and students are taking an active role toward its prevention.

Mary Clark, guidance counselor at West Hancock High in Britt, said there is a sharper focus on bullying now. It's covered in school adviser and advisee groups through videos and discussions.

Rachel Rognes, professional counselor at Forest City High, said bullying is a primary topic in the school's adviser and advisee programs.

Area schools address the consequences of bullying in their staff and handbooks.

Rognes said bullying's effects can be far-reaching. They can affect a student's performance in school, both socially and academically. And those guilty of bullying could face criminal charges.

Once bullying is identified, both the victim and bully need help, Rognes said. Iowa schools must investigate all bullying reports and develop a plan to combat it.

But that's just when it happens in school.

Obviously, it can continue around the clock through the Internet and cell phone. That's when parents and the community must have their greatest involvement.

Communication is a must. Parents have to know what their kids are doing - and having done to them. Kids might resist, but parents have to make it an ongoing effort.

The community can get involved, too. Friends, associates and others who hear of such bullying - any kind of bullying - have to inform someone who can do something about it and make it clear they won't tolerate the practice.

No, bullying may never be stopped but it's up to the entire community to make it a top-of-mind issue in and out of school.

As Clark said, making people think can help make a difference. We owe it to our children to all be difference-makers.

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