October Counselor Connection

Posted Date: 10/02/26 (02:00 PM)

October 2026 | National Bullying Prevention Month

At Rapoport Academy, we believe every student deserves to feel safe, supported, and valued. One way we do this is through age appropriate Bullying Prevention presentations and activities that will take place district wide. Our school’s focus will be on helping students recognize bullying, understand how to respond, and know when and how to seek help. Our goal is to build a school community where students feel comfortable speaking up, supporting one another, and treating others with respect.

Understanding Bullying

Not every unkind interaction is bullying. Children may experience disagreements, hurt feelings, rude behavior, or conflict with peers. Bullying is different and involves behaviors that are repeated or have the potential to be repeated and are intended to harm, intimidate, or create an imbalance of power.

Helping children understand the difference can make it easier for them to recognize when they need help and communicate what is happening.

Start Conversations Early

You don't need to wait for a problem to start a conversation about bullying. Consider asking:

• How are things going with your friends?

• Have you noticed anyone being left out or treated unkindly?

• What would you do if you saw someone being bullied?

• Who are the adults at school you could go to for help?

• Do you feel like you can talk to an adult if something is bothering you?

Regular, low-pressure conversations can make it easier for children to speak up when something is wrong.

What Does It Mean to Be an Upstander?

Students don't have to be the target of bullying to make a difference. An upstander is someone who chooses to help rather than join in or stand by. Even small actions can help create a school culture where students feel respected and included. Depending on the situation, an upstander might:

• Include someone who is being left out

• Refuse to participate in hurtful behavior

• Support a peer who is being targeted

• Get a trusted adult

• Speak up when it is safe to do so

Elementary

Elementary students will participate in age-appropriate bullying prevention lessons and activities throughout October.

Middle & High School

Bullying Prevention Week

October 5–9, 2026

Students will participate in activities throughout the week, including Morning Meetings and Community Groups focused on bullying prevention, being an upstander, and creating a respectful school community.

How Students Can Get Help

Students are encouraged to reach out to a trusted adult if they are experiencing bullying, witnessing bullying, or are unsure about something happening with peers.

Students can talk with: a teacher, their counselor, an administrator, or another trusted adult.

Rapoport Academy also maintains an anonymous online reporting system STOPIt

Resources

• Parent's Guide to Understanding Bullying — Texas School Safety Center

• David's Legacy Foundation — Resources for families related to cyberbullying prevention

• Rapoport Academy District-Wide Student Handbook