Bullying Prevention: Information for Louisiana Families
October is National Bullying Prevention Month, an opportunity to increase awareness about bullying and the steps families and schools can take when concerns arise.
Louisiana law prohibits bullying in public schools and establishes procedures for reporting and investigating allegations. The Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) provides guidance, reporting forms, and resources for families and schools.
Understanding Bullying
Not every conflict or unkind interaction meets Louisiana’s definition of bullying. Louisiana law generally defines bullying as a pattern of behavior occurring more than once that causes harm, creates an intimidating or threatening educational environment, interferes with a student’s school performance, or substantially disrupts school operations.
If Your Child Experiences Bullying
- Listen and document. Record what happened, including dates, locations, individuals involved, and witnesses. Keep relevant messages, screenshots, or other documentation.
- Report the concern to the school. Contact the appropriate teacher, counselor, principal, or administrator. Families may use Louisiana’s official Bullying Report Form.
- Keep records. Save copies of reports and school communications and note dates of conversations and meetings.
- Ask about the investigation and next steps. Louisiana guidance outlines requirements for school investigations, parent notification, and timelines.
- Follow up if concerns remain unresolved. LDOE provides information about additional steps families may take when appropriate action has not occurred.
Louisiana Resources
LDOE Bullying Information and Resources
https://doe.louisiana.gov/school-system-leaders/school-policies/bullying
Reporting and Investigating Bullying
https://doe.louisiana.gov/school-system-leaders/school-policies/bullying/reporting-and-investigating-bullying
Louisiana Bullying Report Form
https://doe.louisiana.gov/docs/default-source/public-school/bullying-report-form.pdf
Families who have questions about the school process may also contact Northshore Families Helping Families (Phone 985-875-0511) for information, resources, and assistance understanding available options.
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