Regardless of whether a student is being a bully, bully victim or a bystander, he or she is fully responsibile for maintaining a safe learning environment, according to school policy.

“It is the policy of the Lake Central School Corporation to maintain a learning environment that is free from harassment, intimidation and bullying.”

This is the statement written on page 16 of the student handbook. Though all students sign off on a rules sheet, not everyone fully understands what everything means.

“I knew there was some sort of rule in the agenda about [bullying], but I did not know the exact consequences,” Zachary Miklusak (12) said.

If a student is bullied by another  student, he or she is advised to speak up.

“Any staff member in the building would be good to talk to,”  Dean of Students Richard Moore said.

According to the student handbook, “students who see other students being bullied are required to report it to their teacher or principal immediately”.  The witness would not have to worry about anyone finding out they reported the action.

“[Reporting] is always confidential. We never give up student names,” Moore said.

Bullying is not limited to verbal statements or even aggressive actions. Bullying has taken a new form: cyber-bullying.

“Our biggest challenge is social media,” Assistant Principal Tim Powers said.

Bullying can include negative written statements that can be posted on social networking websites such as Facebook or Twitter.

“Battles in media do not help the process. We are social creatures. This is where the spokes meet: school. We always want tips or info about bullying. No one wants to be bullied,” Powers said.

The student handbook also states that “students are prohibited from knowingly or willfully falsely accusing one another of bullying” and that “such action may result in suspension or request for expulsion.”