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How to start an antibullying program

Want to nip bullying in the bud? Start a program that stops the torment before it starts.

By Connie Matthiessen

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Recruit a team

The first step? Seek as many allies as possible. Before approaching school district officials, Newman created a committee to explore the issue and gather information. “You want as many people in your corner as possible," Newman says. She recommends including bullying experts -- the YMCA is a good place to find contacts -- as well as teachers, child development experts, parents whose kids have been bullied -- even parents whose kids were bullies themselves. "Parents of kids who've bullied are like reformed smokers," she says. "They’ve become educated and are all about making it good.”

Newman also included high-end attorneys on her anti-bullying team. “We don't advocate suing anyone," she says. "But it's important for the parents to know their rights, and many can't afford to hire lawyers."
 

Next:  Build your case »