How Do You “Bullyproof” a School?

Apr 12, 2019

by United Way NCA

That’s the question United Way of the National Capital Area, Everfi and The Washington Redskins Charitable Foundation have teamed up to solve. Bullying today has the same shape as ever before, except now it has a new landscape: online. Instead of treating the aftermath of bullying, why not create more spaces where bullies don’t exist?

The idea that the bully is the “bad guy” actually gets in the way of preventing bullying in the first place. Recent case studies on bullying reveal that there’s one component consistently missing throughout: solid communication skills. Unresolved anger, pent up frustration, and no developed means to manage emotional distress all contribute to the development of bullying. When you bridge the gap by empowering students at an early age with a stable foundation to process difficult feelings, then you stand a greater chance of bullying going away.

For student’s living in poverty, there are a slew of risk factors when it comes to developing character. Fractured families or limited parental influence can hinder a child’s ability to develop a foundation of trust that they can use to build strong relationships with their peers. Lack of stable housing, food, and resources may impact a child’s self-esteem. And without stability, children might grow up without the proper communication or relationship building skills that can empower them to succeed.

When we think about today’s innovators and thought leaders, we often value them for their character. Modern day heroes are inspiring not just for their strength, but for their integrity. And yet for all the importance that character plays in how we judge the world, there isn’t a large enough focus on teaching it to our students. Tools like the Character Playbook and a partnership like the Washington Redskins Charitable Foundation and United Way NCA are cultivating character driven education across local schools in the National Capital Area.

The Character Playbook’s method empowers students with the tools to manage difficult emotional situations and resolve conflict effectively. Beyond assisting students in developing deeper relationships with their peers and family, The Character Playbook empowers students to feel comfortable growing, learning and creating.

We invite you to learn more about The Character Playbook and United Way NCA’s commitment to helping 12,000 Title I students succeed beyond middle school.

Recent Posts

related post thumbnail
Feb 06, 2023

blog

Analyzing Digital Equity in Cities Around the U.S.

As online learning, telehealth and remote work continue to grow in popularity throughout the U.S., questions of digital equity and bridging the digital divide arise. For those who have access […]
related post thumbnail
Jan 25, 2023

blog

Vacant Homes vs. Homelessness in Cities Around the U.S.

For many Americans, finding affordable housing continues to be a challenge, whether you’re renting or buying. In today’s real estate market, many overpriced homes sit vacant while populations experiencing homelessness […]
related post thumbnail
Jan 03, 2023

blog

Highest Graduation Rates by State & Metro Counties

At United Way, we see firsthand how much a quality education can have a major lifelong effect on the lives of children in their communities. That’s one of many reasons […]

Stay Connected to United Way NCA

Sign up for our newsletter

Our quarterly newsletter, Community Matters, keeps you informed on all things United Way NCA, including volunteer opportunities, news, upcoming events to attend, a letter from our president & CEO, Rosie Allen-Herring, and so much more.