Introduction			Our Initiatives			Take Action

Our Initiatives

The DOE is taking a comprehensive and systemic approach to address bullying and harassment through improved data gathering and analysis, professional development and training, and the proactive involvement of community and students.

State DOE leaders and school administrators routinely review bullying incidents in various complex areas to monitor trends and respond accordingly. The DOE held a statewide training, Improving School Community Climate, from September 2011 through February 2012 to provide administrators with tools for addressing social emotional learning and improving school community climate.

All schools provide (1) positive behavioral interventions and supports system, (2) an evidence-based anti-bullying program, and (3) annual training with students, staff, families and school community.

• In 2011, the DOE and the Hawaii State Board of Education supported the passage of Act 214, known as the "Safe Schools Act," to improve monitoring and reporting of bullying and harassment.
• In October 2011, the DOE announced a statewide campaign to raise awareness about the dangers of bullying by launching a series of student-produced public service announcements promoting safe schools. View the anti-bullying public service announcements..
• The DOE revised its administrative rules for student misconduct, Hawaii Administrative Rules Title 8 Chapter 19, to include the definitions of "bullying" and "cyberbullying."

Additionally, the DOE develops and sustain school programs that:

• Teach students how to treat each other with respect and aloha.
• Promote sense of belonging and acceptance in all students.
• Prevent students from becoming victims.
• Empower bystanders to take stance against bullying.
• Provide a confidential reporting system.