Each year, Ontario designates the third week of November as Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week, a time for school communities to come together to promote safe, inclusive, and respectful learning environments. At the Lambton Kent District School Board (LKDSB), this week reaffirms our ongoing commitment to student safety and well-being, promoting inclusion and celebrating diversity.
At LKDSB, we believe that fostering a culture of kindness, empathy, and inclusion is essential to preventing bullying. Our schools actively promote values that encourage students to be good friends, upstanders, and allies. Through regular in-servicing and classroom activities, students learn how to recognize bullying, support their peers, and contribute to a positive school climate.
A Culture of Kindness and Inclusion
We also take pride in celebrating the differences that make our students unique. Whether through cultural observances, awareness days, or student-led initiatives, we create opportunities for students to share their stories and educate others. Research shows that students who understand and appreciate diversity are significantly less likely to engage in bullying behaviors. This is why inclusion is a value, as well as a strategy.
Addressing the Rise of Cyberbullying
As technology continues to evolve, so do the challenges our students face. Cyberbullying has become a growing concern across all school boards, and LKDSB is proactively addressing it. We work closely with educators to integrate cyber safety education into the curriculum and provide students with the tools to navigate digital spaces responsibly.
Our partnerships with local police services and community organizations enhance our ability to respond to online threats and educate students about the real-world consequences of digital harassment. 
Strong Systems of Support
We know that bullying can have serious impacts on a student’s mental health, academic performance, and sense of belonging. That’s why LKDSB has implemented a secure online reporting system, allowing students and families to report concerns confidentially and safely. Our school administrators play a vital role in following up on these reports, ensuring that every situation is addressed with care and urgency.
Community Collaboration
Preventing bullying is a shared responsibility. LKDSB collaborates with a wide range of community partners, including mental health professionals, law enforcement, and advocacy groups, to provide wraparound support for students. These partnerships strengthen our ability to respond to incidents and build long-term strategies for prevention.
Why This Week Matters
Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week is a chance to spotlight the work happening year-round across our board. It’s a time to educate, reflect, and recommit to creating schools where every student feels safe, valued, and empowered.
We encourage all members of our school communities—students, parents, guardians, educators, and staff—to take part in this week’s activities, learn more about bullying and cyberbullying, and explore the resources available. Together, we can build a future where kindness leads, differences are celebrated, and every student thrives.