Freedom Area Middle School has noticed an increase in online issues and cyberbullying this school year. Whether it’s on Snapchat, TikTok, text messages, or even Gmail, many people in our school could say they have been cyberbullied over this past school year.

“We have had a few issues this year with students sending threatening messages through social media or text.  We have also had students sending mean things and making fun of students to a point that goes too far,” said Mr. Jeff Griffith, FMS Principal. “A student can be disciplined for cyberbullying if it comes into the school, or messages are sent while they are in school. Using the school email would make cyberbullying a school issue.  We investigate issues that are brought to us, and if it is a school issue, we will step in with school discipline.  Our counselors also help students who are dealing with cyberbullying.  It can also become a police issue if it’s done outside of school.”

“Cyberbullying comes up fairly often. If there’s drama between students, most of it started the night before on social media,” Mrs. Suleski, student counselor, stated. “If you are getting cyberbullied, the best thing to do is to block whoever you are experiencing that with and stop speaking with that person, but most importantly, report them.”  

An article from www.3rdmil.com states that 10-20% of adolescents experience cyberbullying regularly. About 58% of kids admit someone has said mean or hurtful things to them online. More than 4 out of 10 say it has happened more than once. Also, cyberbullying has increased in recent years. In a national survey of 10-17 year olds, twice as many children indicated they had been victims and perpetrators, an article from www.annapolis.gov states. The psychological and emotional outcomes and effects of cyberbullying are similar to those of real-life bullying, except for the reality that with cyberbullying, there is often no escape. School ends at 2:40 p.m., while the Internet is available all the time. 

If you are struggling with cyberbullying or you know someone who is, reach out to a trusted adult, like your parents or the school counselor.