Planning for Olweus Implementation is Underway
Earlier this school year, the Anamosa district chose Olweus [pronounced ol-VEY-us] as the bullying prevention program to be implemented in the fall of 2008. Training has begun and planning will continue throughout the spring and summer.
In order to prepare for Olweus implementation, Bully Prevention Coordinating Committees were established in each of the three buildings: elementary, middle, and high school. These committees, referred to as the BPCCs, include administrators, teachers, counselors, social workers, nurses, support staff, parents, and community members. It is the responsibility of each BPCC to spearhead the bullying prevention initiative in their building.
In March, Anamosa students in grades 3-12 completed the Olweus Bullying Questionnaire. The results of this questionnaire provided BPCCs with valuable data about bullying related issues that exist in our district. The program will address these issues through a variety of lessons and activities.
On April 2nd and 3rd, the BPCCs participated in two full days of training provided by Ann Taylor and Denese Toomey, of Grant Wood AEA. In addition to learning about Olweus, BPCCs were provided with time to discuss how to implement the program in their buildings.
Since the April training, BPCCs have been meeting on a regular basis to plan for the district-wide training which will take place in two half-day sessions on June 5th and August 18th. All staff will participate in both sessions and will be actively involved in implementing Olweus during the 2008-2009 school year.
During the summer, the work of the BPCCs will continue. Emphasis will be on developing the lessons and activities for the first part of the school year and planning a "kick-off" event.
For additional information visit the U.S. Olweus Bullying Prevention web site:
