Bullying in Schools

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Many people perceive bullying in its traditional terms, but what goes on in schools today isn't your father's bullying. Montana Behavior Initiative Instuctional
Coach Susan Dotter says, "Cyber bullying has brought a huge change to the face of bullying in today's society."

Advancements in technology like ther internet, phones and cameras allow a much larger circle of people to become involved. It's also pushed bullying out of
the traditional arena of the school hallways. Dotter says, "It really is out there where it heightens that perception that everybody is aware of what I did or
everybody doesn't like me."

But in the end it follows students to school. It can negatively affect how someone learns or relates to other students.

"It's incredibly important if students are going to be able to succeed at school, for them to be able to feel safe and nurtured in the learning evironment," says
Dotter. She says the change needs to be a society one, "That really isn't about telling kids not to bully. It's about teaching kids to treat each other with
respect."

Story by Ryan Whalen, Beartooth NBC.
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