Baltimore City Public Schools observes National Bullying Prevention Month each October. This month highlights the importance of creating safe, supportive, and respectful learning environments for all students. In Baltimore, students, families, and staff play a vital role in building school communities where empathy, inclusion, and kindness are valued every day. City Schools recognizes these efforts and the ways they help shape a positive school culture, fostering connections that strengthen our classrooms and our city, both now and in the future.
City Schools will honor Bullying Awareness and Prevention Month the week of October 13 – October 16. Schools will receive a bullying awareness and prevention toolkit with activities. City Schools will recognize Unity Day on Wednesday, October 15, 2025. Students, staff, families, and community partners are encouraged to wear orange and blue to raise awareness and prevent bullying in our community.
If you or someone you know has experienced bullying or harassment, please submit a report through our website. Reports may also be printed and submitted in person.
History of the Month
Initially held the first week of October, National Bullying Prevention Month is a campaign founded in 2006 by PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center to educate and raise awareness of bullying prevention. In 2010, it expanded to be an entire month. Through partnerships with education-based organizations such as the National PTA, the American Federation of Teachers, and the National Education Association, PACER expanded the week to a nationwide call to action to stop bullying through education and awareness.
Read more about National Bullying Prevention Month:
Pacer
National Child Traumatic Stress Network
Books to read during National Bullying Prevention Month:
Elementary School
“Chrysanthemum” by Kevin Henkes
"The Recess Queen" by Alexis O’Neill
"Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon" by Patty Lovell
"Each Kindness" by Jaqueline Woodson
"Spaghetti in a Hot Dog Bun" by Maria Dismondy
Middle School
"Blubber" by Judy Blume
"Bystander" by James Preller
"Freak the Mighty" by Rodman Philbrick
"Posted" by John David Anderson
"Stargirl" by Jerry Spinelli
High School
"Hate List" by Jennifer Brown
"Girl in Pieces" by Kathleen Glasgow
For teachers:
Did you know?
In 2019, a 10-year-old Baltimore City student was recognized for writing and publishing two books, including one inspired by her own experience with bullying.
One of those books, "The Cat that Wouldn’t Go Away,” tells the story of a young girl and a cat who form a bond after both facing bullying experiences.
Created by City Schools with assistance from AI.