Cyberbullying and School Safety

Social media can help students access information, connect with family and friends, and provide a means
of communication for those who feel isolated or disconnected in the offline world. However, social media
can also provide a platform for unfortunate interactions with others, such as cyberbullying. Educators
are equally aware that some online conduct, although perceived as bullying, may be protected by the First
Amendment. Based on lessons learned from the shooting in Parkland, the Broward County League of Cities indicated a need for proactive social media monitoring protocols
to identify threats and at-risk behaviors. The role of schools in intervening in cyberbullying can be challenging, as students access technology using school and personal internet services, during and outside of school hours, and on and off school grounds. Most schools are limited in their ability to identify and
address behavior that occurs off school grounds. In spite of this, there are many examples of school
efforts to address cyberbullying. Since 2010, the Federal Partners in Bullying Prevention have developed
and disseminated key resources via StopBullying.gov and hosted a biannual bullying prevention summit.4
First Lady Melania Trump recently launched the “Be Best” initiative, which focuses, in part, on addressing
cyberbullying. Various federal programs may, among other purposes, support efforts to address cyberbullying, such as improving school climate and anti-bullying interventions.

“ 34 percent of youth reported being cyberbullied in their lifetime, and bullying has been
cited as a contributing factor in cases of extreme retaliation, including school shootings”

School Safety

The Commission heard about the importance of engaging the broader community in cyberbullying
prevention efforts and of empowering students to lead such initiatives. Presenters characterized cyberbullying as a behavioral issue that is not distinct from more
traditional in-person forms of bullying. They emphasized the importance of not blaming technology or
restricting access as the means to address cyberbullying. Instead, the presenters suggested focusing on
improving overall school climate and changing social norms on how technology is used.