District 146 Recognizes Anti-Bullying Month

District 146 is joined many schools across the county to recognize October as National Bullying Prevention Month. The District, however, also takes steps to prevent bullying year-round.

“We work hard at all of our buildings to proactively stop bullying before it starts,” said Kelly Voliva, Director of Student Services. “Multiple resources with a focus on social emotional learning are integrated into our curriculum. Our teachers and support staff take very seriously the task of educating the whole child.”

District-wide curriculum is in place that helps end bullying before it starts. All of the elementary schools, along with Central Middle School, utilize the Second Step program to address the social-emotional asp­­­ects of learning.

Second Step is a research-based curriculum that enables students to learn how to handle emotions, make good decisions, and learn strategies to avoid peer conflict. Second Step also includes a Home Link that includes information and activities for the whole family to take part in outside of the classroom.

The District also utilizes the CHAMPS program that sets clear, consistent expectations while encouraging positive interactions. CHAMPS stands for Conversation, Help, Activity, Movement, Participation, and Success. Teachers use CHAMPS to monitor student communication and model respectful, responsible behavior. Students ask themselves questions for each word of the acronym to determine the appropriate behavior.

To enhance the curriculum, special events and activities are regularly scheduled at the schools. Throughout the year there are spirit weeks and all-school assemblies that build awareness for bullying and showcase how differences can be celebrated.

At Fierke, classroom teachers choose literature and activities that focus on bullying and inspire discussions with students. At Fulton, students learn about cyberbullying and digital citizenship in the media center.

Kruse has a buddy bench that helps students make friends and approach those who might be feeling down or isolated. Memorial students took part in Say Hello Week in August to increase awareness and highlight the power of supporting one another.

Central Middle School also utilizes “7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens” to help students learn how to build friendships and celebrate differences. The Twister Leadership Team consists of students who encourage peers throughout the year to create a positive learning environment.

Students are taught at all levels how to report bullying in their buildings. All reports are investigated at the administrative level and all staff are trained on the District’s bullying policies and procedures.

“The District is working hard to prevent bullying at all of our schools,” said Dr. Jeff Stawick, Superintendent. “Every staff member takes part in professional development to learn the most appropriate ways to deal with bullying situations. The administration continues to look for ways to further enhance our anti-bullying policies and curriculum to strive for prevention.”

Community Consolidated School District 146 is comprised of Central Middle School, Fierke Education Center, Fulton School, Kruse Education Center, and Memorial School. Students from Tinley Park, Orland Park, and Oak Forest attend District 146 schools.