March 1, 2023. 9am and 3pm. OES Lounge

Save the Date!

June 1, 2023

Oasis Family Event. All families welcome.

English survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BCMXBY9

Spanish survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BCMXBY9?lang=es

Thank you for your support!

https://forms.office.com/r/tXgd8xVuRe

Bullying and being mean are two distinct behaviors, although they share some similarities. Being mean involves behaving in an unkind or hurtful manner towards another person, but it does not necessarily involve a power imbalance or repeated behavior. On the other hand, bullying involves intentional, repetitive, and aggressive behavior towards someone who is perceived as weaker or vulnerable.

Here are some key differences between bullying and being mean:

1. Power imbalance: Bullying involves a power imbalance where one person has more power or influence over another, and they use this power to control, intimidate or harm the other person. Being mean, however, does not involve a power imbalance, and it can occur between individuals who are relatively equal in power.

2. Repetitive behavior: Bullying involves repeated behavior, often targeting the same person over an extended period. Being mean, however, may be a one-time occurrence or happen sporadically.

3. Intent: Bullying involves an intentional act of causing harm or injury to another person, whereas being mean may occur unintentionally or without any intention to cause harm.

4. Effect on the victim: Bullying can have severe and long-lasting effects on the victim, including physical, emotional, and psychological harm. Being mean may cause temporary emotional harm but is unlikely to have long-term effects.

5. Social acceptability: Being mean may be socially unacceptable, but it is not necessarily condemned in the same way as bullying. Bullying is widely recognized as a harmful and unacceptable behavior.

While both bullying and being mean involve hurtful behavior towards another person, bullying is a deliberate, repetitive, and aggressive behavior that involves a power imbalance and can have severe and long-lasting effects on the victim. Being mean, however, may occur without intention to cause harm, and is not necessarily repetitive or involve a power imbalance.

We have many resources in place at Oasis to not only stop bullying, but also to teach students the difference between bullying and being mean. If your child is experiencing meanness or bullying at school, please encourage them to reach out to their teacher or administration. It is our priority to ensure students feel safe at school so they are able to learn, and also teach students how to treat each other with kindness and respect.

The phrase "I am because you are" is a traditional African proverb that emphasizes the interconnectedness of human beings. The idea behind this saying is that we are all connected and that our happiness, success, and well-being are interdependent. When one person succeeds or is happy, it benefits others in their community, and when one person suffers, it affects others as well.

In the context of happiness and success, the concept of "I am because you are" suggests that our happiness and success are not just individual achievements but are connected to the happiness and success of those around us. When we support and uplift others, it creates a positive ripple effect that can benefit everyone. Conversely, when we are not supportive of others, it can create negativity and unhappiness that can also affect us.

This concept is particularly relevant in today's interconnected world, where social media and other technologies allow us to connect with people across the globe. Our actions and words can have an impact on others, even if we have never met them in person. By embracing the idea that "I am because you are," we can cultivate a sense of empathy, compassion, and community that can lead to greater happiness and success for all.