Durham Public Schools Promotes Bullying Prevention Month with Student-Led Activities

Durham Public Schools (DPS) is taking a systemwide stand against bullying this October during National Bullying Prevention Awareness Month. In partnership with national nonprofit STOMP Out Bullying, DPS is organizing school-based events that promote student safety, inclusion, and peer support.

On Oct. 7, the DPS Board of Education officially proclaimed October as Bullying Prevention Month, emphasizing the district’s commitment to building welcoming schools where all students - regardless of background - feel safe, respected, and supported.

“Our goal at DPS is clear: create a culture of belonging where every child feels seen, supported, and respected,” said Dr. Melissa Watson, director of student support services.

🧡 Why Bullying Prevention Matters in Durham Schools

Bullying, cyberbullying, and hate-based harassment can have long-term effects on student well-being and academic success. DPS aims to create lasting change by encouraging student-led solutions that go beyond one-time awareness campaigns.

Throughout October, schools across the district are engaging in weekly anti-bullying activities designed to foster empathy, inclusion, and peer accountability.

🔎 Upcoming Anti-Bullying Events in DPS Schools

📅 Week of Oct. 13: Stand Up for Others Week

This week, students will learn how to be upstanders instead of bystanders:

• Practicing intervention strategies
• Posting positive sticky-note messages for peers
• Promoting kindness during classroom discussions

📅 Week of Oct. 20: Week of Inclusion

Students will focus on building inclusive peer relationships:

• #NoOneEatsAloneDPS lunchroom initiatives
• Class discussions on empathy and listening
• Encouragement to invite new peers to clubs or buses
• Social sharing using #HereForYouDPS

📅 Week of Oct. 27: Change the Culture Week

The final week centers on creating a bully-free school culture through student leadership:

• Peer-led discussions on bullying and respect
• Visual projects like murals and pledge walls
• Participation from student groups like We Are Kings, We Are Queens, SAVE, and student councils

👕 How Families Can Get Involved

DPS invites all students and staff to wear blue throughout the month to support #BlueUpDPS, a district-wide show of solidarity for bullying prevention. Parents and guardians are encouraged to talk with their children about school climate, attend upcoming events, and follow updates on social media using the hashtags #BlueUpDPS and #HereForYouDPS.

These events are part of Durham’s broader commitment to safe, inclusive, and equitable public schools. For more details, families can contact their school's administration or visit the Durham Public Schools website.

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