Comox Valley Schools will support the annual anti-bullying initiatives across Canada by wearing pink on Feb. 24.
By participating in the Pink Shirt Day, the school district aims to raise awareness of issues associated with bullying behaviour, including cyberbullying.
The Pink Shirt campaign, Lift Each Other Up, is focused on encouraging one another and reminding everyone there are support programs in the school district that encourage healthy self-esteem and teach empathy, compassion and kindness.
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This past year, we have all been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, which is why it is more important than ever to help students and advocate on behalf of those who need it. The 2021 Pink Shirt campaign will focus on working together and treating each other with dignity and respect.
Peer conflict continues in schools on a regular basis and can escalate to bullying. Educating school staff, students, parents and families of the importance of being respectful can help curb student behaviour issues before they become problematic.
Building safe school environments where students are respected is a top priority for the district. We encourage students and parents to take action against bullying behaviour. If bullying behaviour is witnessed or experienced, talk to a teacher, counsellor or trained professional. Notify the school immediately or report it anonymously through the province’s ERASE tool.
On Feb. 24, wear pink to encourage the practice of kindness and to symbolize that our school communities do not tolerate bullying.