Sustainability

One of the best practices in bullying prevention is to make sure any program, initiative, campaign or movement is not a short-lived effort because:

In order to realize higher rates of success, programs must be implemented and sustained over time.

AND

Students will not invest meaningful time or effort in a movement that does not have longevity or a positive impact in their lives.

Below are some quick recommendations for keeping sustainability in mind.

• Is there administrative and staff support for student-led initiatives?
• Have you identified adults in your building who will assist you?
• Who will take over if you are unable to support the students?
• What is the process for official approval of a new initiative in your school?
• Have you identified community support for additional resources? E.g., parent group, local businesses, local and state government.
• What role will your students play in institutionalizing and elevating this movement?
• What are key components of a successful student-led initiative in your school?
• Could this initiative be linked or integrated with any other existing initiatives? E.g., school climate, character education, SEL or other bullying prevention efforts.
• Have you identified future opportunities for students to be engaged in bullying prevention as they move on to high school?
• Do you have team building activities that would bring cohesion to the group as new members are added?