Recognizing Bullying: Signs Students and Families Should Know

What Might Bullying Look Like?

Recognizing bullying isn’t always easy, especially when it happens online or outside a traditional classroom. Bullying may include repeated teasing or harassment, threats, intimidation, social exclusion, hurtful messages or posts, spreading rumors, sharing embarrassing content, unwanted contact or physical aggression.

It may also involve other behaviors that cause harm or disrupt a student’s ability to participate in school. While one sign doesn’t necessarily mean a student is being bullied, patterns and changes are worth noticing.

A student experiencing bullying may become less engaged in school, miss class, participate less often or withdraw from virtual activities. Families and staff may also notice changes in the student’s mood, behavior, friendships, relationships or communication.

If something doesn’t feel right, encourage the student to talk with a trusted adult. Listening without judgment and taking concerns seriously can make it easier for a student to ask for help.

Need Additional Support?

Students and families can submit bullying concerns through Epic’s Awareity reporting platform. For instructions, review our “How to Report Bullying” resource.

If you need help submitting a report or have questions, contact Student Wellness Support Services at studentwellness@epiccharterschools.org.

For an immediate mental health or safety concern, email studentsafety@epiccharterschools.org. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.