Bullying in Virginia
By: Thomas Marple
Bullying
In order to understand how to stop bullying you need to know what bullying is. Bullying is a use of superior strength or influence to intimidate (someone), typically to force him or her to do what one wants.
Why it is a problem
Bullying is a problem in most schools. It is causing students to not come to school and miss class. Bullying can and will abase a students emotional spirit and affect them academically. This is why teachers and students need to stop it before it happens. Many people believe that bullying doesn't happen, but it does happen and it is a very serious issue. In a recent survey 33% of students in Virginia's schools have admitted to being bullied. 9% of students that were bullied stayed home from school to escape the bully. And, in a survey of many students that have been bullied, 3% have or have attempted suicide because of bullying. Bullying needs to stop!
How to stop bullying
First, students need to eliminate bullying amongst themselves. If they can not do it then teachers should step in and stop it. Second, teachers should also make sure that students speak up about bullying, and if that see another student being bullied they should report it. Third, the staff of the school should advertise the fact that bullying is bad. If bullying is a very serious problem at a school they should start implementing stronger punishment to those who bully. I believe this solution should stop bullying or at least make it a smaller problem in any school.