Bullying

Polk County Public Schools is committed to providing a safe learning environment that is free from bullying and harassment. The FAQs below provide definitions of both bullying and harassment.

Bullying and harassment that disrupts the educational setting will not be tolerated.

Students, parents, guardians, volunteers and other concerned individuals with knowledge of these incidents should submit a report in writing at the link below and/or contact the school administration immediately.

All school employees are required to report alleged violations. Reports can be made anonymously. Every reported act of bullying or harassment will be investigated and parents will be informed of the outcome.

If you’re unsure if you or your child is being bullied, the following checklist can help. All items must be answered “yes” for behavior to be considered bulling or harassment. If you answer “yes” to all items, please report the behavior immediately.

  • Was the behavior negative or malicious?

  • Did the behavior happen more than once?

  • Did the incident occur on school property, at a school event, on the school bus or at the bus stop?

  • Did the behavior disrupt the learning environment?

  • Is there an imbalance in strength or power, or an attempt to create an imbalance?

Your concerns are important, even if the behavior does not constitute bullying or harassment. Please contact your school administration, guidance counselor or teacher, or the Polk County Public Schools Bullying Prevention Compliance Officers if you need additional support. Threats of physical harm should be reported to law enforcement immediately.

The following FAQs will provide you with additional information related to bullying and harassment.

Bullying Frequently Asked Questions

 

Bullying Prevention

The Bullying Prevention Compliance Officers consist of social workers who assist the schools in creating a supportive and safe school environment. The social workers are involved in a variety of activities to ensure support as it relates to bullying/harassment prevention. The social workers also collaborate with their assigned school to provide services based on the schools individual needs.

The following are some of the services provided:

  • Parents: Support in meetings; Resources; Presentations
  • Students: Follow up interventions for perpetrator; Follow up interventions for victim; Social Skills “Lunch Bunch” groups; Lunch time presentations and interactions
  • Bullying Prevention Information

Bullying Prevention Compliance Officers

Tammy Cassels – Assistant Superintendent, Learning Support Division
[email protected]
(863) 535-6488

Sherry J. Scott – Director, Student Services & Section 504
[email protected]
(863) 535-5975

 

Tips for Preventing Bullying via Social Media

It is important that parents and children have clear expectations and boundaries for social media use. Here are some helpful tips to prompt discussion with your child.