Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week, which begins on the third Sunday of November, invites school communities across Ontario to deepen their understanding of bullying, its impacts, and the shared responsibility we have in creating safe, caring, and Christ-centred learning environments.
At the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board, we hold sacred the belief that every child is created in the image and likeness of God. Guided by the teachings of Jesus Christ, we remain committed to school environments where each person is treated with dignity and respect and where every student feels safe, valued, and a true sense of belonging.
Bullying, whether in person or online, harms the entire school community. Its effects reach the student who is targeted, the individual who engages in bullying behaviour, and those who witness it. Bullying, including cyberbullying, is not tolerated in our Catholic schools, at school-related activities, or in any space connected to school life.
Throughout Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week, HWCDSB schools will continue to promote understanding of the different forms bullying can take, support students as they develop healthy relationships, and encourage reporting so that concerns can be addressed early. Resources, classroom activities, and schoolwide initiatives will help students learn what bullying is, why it matters, and how we can respond in ways that reflect our Catholic values of compassion, empathy, and respect.
For additional information and supports, please visit our Bullying and Reporting page and the Government of Ontario’s “Bullying: We Can All Help Stop It” resource, and the Tool Kit for Students, Parents, and Guardians: Mental Wellbeing Awareness, Strategies, and Supports.
