

OCSCS Anti-Bullying Policy
At OCSCS, we are committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and respectful learning environment where every student can thrive. Bullying, in any form, undermines this mission and will not be tolerated. This policy outlines our school’s approach to preventing, addressing, and resolving bullying incidents.
Definition of Bullying
Bullying is any intentional behavior by an individual or group that hurts, harms, or humiliates another person. Bullying can be verbal, physical, social, or digital (cyberbullying), and may involve repeated or one-time actions. It often targets differences such as race, ethnicity, gender, ability, religion, or socioeconomic status. Types of bullying include:
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Verbal: Name-calling, insults, threats, or teasing.
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Physical: Hitting, pushing, or damaging personal property.
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Social/Relational: Exclusion, spreading rumors, or public embarrassment.
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Cyberbullying: Harassment through social media, texting, or other digital platforms.
Prevention Strategies
Promoting a positive school culture
We will emphasize respect, empathy, and kindness in classrooms and school-wide activities.
Education
Teachers and counselors will conduct anti-bullying workshops, lessons, and conflict resolution training.
Clear Expectations
Students will be made aware of the school’s anti-bullying policy and the consequences of violating it during orientation and throughout the year.
Safe Reporting
We will establish multiple channels for students to report bullying, including anonymous options, ensuring that all reports are taken seriously.
Reporting Bullying
Students, staff, and parents are encouraged to report any bullying incidents immediately. Reports can be made through:
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In-Person Reports: To teachers, school counselors, or administrators.
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Anonymous Reporting: Text-a-tip.
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Parent/Guardian Reports: Parents or guardians may report bullying directly to the school administration who oversees discipline, our Dean of Students, Mr. Goodwin. Click here to access his email.
All reports will be handled to protect the safety and well-being of the reporting individual(s).
Response to Bullying
Once a report is made, the following steps will be taken:
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Investigation: School staff will conduct a prompt and thorough investigation, gathering information from all parties involved.
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Intervention: Appropriate action will be taken based on the severity of the bullying. This may include mediation, counseling, disciplinary measures, or restorative justice practices.
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Support for Victims: Victims of bullying will be offered counseling services and additional resources to ensure their emotional well-being.
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Consequences for Bullying: Consequences for bullying may include:
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Parent-teacher conferences
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Detention or suspension
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Removal from extracurricular activities
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In severe cases, involvement of law enforcement
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Follow-up and Monitoring
After an incident is addressed, school staff will continue to monitor the situation to ensure that the bullying does not continue. Check-ins will be conducted with the involved students, and further support will be provided as necessary.
Roles & Responsibilities
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Students: Are expected to treat peers with respect and report any instances of bullying.
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Staff: Will model positive behavior, monitor student interactions, and intervene when bullying occurs.
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Parents/Guardians: Are encouraged to speak with their children about bullying and report any concerns to the school immediately. It becomes difficult to follow-up on delayed reports.
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Administrators: Will ensure all reports are investigated, take necessary disciplinary actions, and maintain a safe school environment.
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At OCSCS, every student has the right to learn in a safe and supportive environment. By working together as a school community, we aim to prevent bullying and foster an atmosphere of respect and inclusion for all students.