As the 2026-27 school year begins, there may be a sense of anticipation of what the new school year will bring for students. For most students they encounter new classes, teachers, routines and different academic goals and achievements. For many students there are good challenges that they can look forward to.
However, for a number of students, returning to school can be full of dread. If they have experienced levels of bullying in the previous year, their emotions may be bound in fear and anxiety. I was reminded of this by a recent story I heard, in which a high school student who was severely bullied attempted suicide as they anticipated what could happen in the next school year.
With all the attention given to this issue, it would seem that we would have found ways to overcome this prevalent social issue in schools. Since our students are so engaged in their peer relationships, the impact of varied forms of bullying creates a significant level of anxiety for school-aged children and teenagers. Bullying deprives our students of a safe emotional and relational environment and makes every day a challenge to endure.
According to some of the statistics related to this issue, there is an on-going prevalence of bullying in our schools. About 19% of students reported that they have experienced bullying in some form. That is about 1 in 5. Students in middle school are more likely to be bullied. Girls experience more bullying than boys do. There is more bullying in classrooms and hallways at school than online or by text. Among high school students, bullying has increased in frequency from 15% to 19% over the past few years. LGBTQ+ students are more targeted for bullying. Finally, approximately 44% of students who are bullied never report it.
It is quite predictable that students who are bullied tend to avoid situations where they might be threatened. They withdraw, avoid school or any bullying situations, demonstrate a range of emotions from anger to depression, and can seem not to be the person they used to be. Particularly as a new school year begins, parents and caregivers should be attuned to their student’s behavior as a check point for bullying. Knowing that can make a significant difference in how the entire school year goes.
If there is a concern about bullying it is likely that the student will not share the details. It will take someone who can actively listen, not judge and be sensitive to the impact of bullying before a teenager will be vulnerable enough to share their experiences. In the big picture we need to help them to feel safe in their home, school and community.
The impetus of going back to school can be exciting and positive, but when back to school means back to bullying it can be emotionally devastating. This is a form of trauma that we should all be aware of as we acknowledge that it continues to be a problem in our schools and youth community.
Gerry Vassar
President/CEO
