School Bullying: The Responsibilities of Teachers and Principals

School bullying is a pervasive issue that affects countless students across the globe. Its impact extends far beyond the playground or classroom, leaving emotional, psychological, and even physical scars on its victims. Despite widespread awareness and numerous anti-bullying initiatives, bullying continues to thrive in many educational environments. One critical yet often overlooked factor in addressing school bullying is the role that educators—specifically teachers and principals—play in either preventing or allowing these harmful behaviors to persist. This two-volume set, "School Bullying: The Responsibilities of Teachers and Principals," explores the responsibilities of educators in combatting bullying within schools. Volume One delves into the specific duties of teachers, focusing on their role in identifying, intervening, and fostering an environment that discourages bullying. Teachers are the first line of defense, interacting daily with students and being in a prime position to notice signs of bullying. However, too often, teachers are not adequately equipped with the tools or support to address this critical issue. While teachers are directly involved with students, principals play a crucial role in setting the tone for school culture, establishing anti-bullying policies, and providing the resources and leadership necessary to effectively prevent and respond to bullying. This volume examines how leadership within a school can either create a safe, inclusive environment or fail to protect students by ignoring or downplaying bullying incidents. Throughout this work, we argue that teachers and principals are not passive bystanders in the fight against bullying but have a clear and vital responsibility to act. By exploring their roles, offering solutions, and discussing accountability, this book aims to equip educators and administrators with the knowledge and tools necessary to make real, lasting change in the battle against school bullying. Together, these volumes offer a comprehensive understanding of the responsibilities teachers and principals must shoulder in creating a school environment where bullying is no longer tolerated, where students can feel safe, respected, and supported, and where the focus is on fostering empathy, inclusivity, and kindness.