Good Afternoon Bulldogs & Families,
October is National Bullying Prevention Month—a time to deepen our understanding of bullying and reinforce our commitment to making San Rafael High School a safe, inclusive, and respectful place for every student.
Understanding Bullying
Bullying is defined as unwelcome, aggressive behavior involving a real or perceived power imbalance that is repeated or has the potential to be repeated.
Bullying isn't always physical. It can also be:
Verbal: Name-calling, teasing, or threats Social: Spreading rumors or intentionally excluding others Cyberbullying: Sending hurtful messages, posting online, or creating fake profiles
Conflict vs. Bullying
A disagreement or argument between peers is a conflict. Bullying is one-sided, where one person repeatedly uses power to hurt or intimidate another.
Reporting is Not "Snitching"
Reporting is about keeping someone safe, whereas "snitching" is aimed at getting someone into trouble. If you or someone you know is being hurt, speaking to a trusted adult is a brave and necessary step to ensure safety.
Tips for Parents & Guardians
Start the Conversation: Ask open-ended questions like, "What are student interactions like at school?" or "Have you ever seen someone being treated unkindly?" Know the Warning Signs: Watch for changes in your teen's behavior, such as avoiding school, a sudden drop in grades, withdrawal from social circles, or heightened anxiety after spending time online. Define Bullying Together: Discuss the school's definition of bullying with your teen and ensure they recognize what it looks like in a high school setting.
Please remember that if you ever need help or have questions, reach out to an adult on campus. We are here to support you!
Reporting Suspicious Activity
We encourage all students to report any suspicious or uncomfortable situations that occur on their way to school, while on campus, or heading home. Student safety is our top priority. Sometimes students hesitate to report incidents that happen off campus during lunch or on their commute, but informing us helps us connect you with the right resources. Parents can support this by discussing safety strategies with their teens regarding interactions with strangers off campus.
Importance of Attendance
Consistent attendance is key to every student's academic success, and we appreciate your partnership in ensuring students arrive present and on time each day. Every day matters; even a few absences or tardies can accumulate and disrupt learning.
For families facing ongoing challenges with attendance or punctuality, our School Attendance Review Team (SART) is available to collaborate on supportive plans. These meetings aim to understand obstacles and build tailored strategies so every student can thrive. Thank you for partnering with us to help your child make the most of every learning opportunity.
Have a great weekend!
Mr. Dominguez
Principal | San Rafael High School
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