Success Story: Reminding Kids to Recognize, Refuse, and Report Bullying

Julie Faulkner, Counselor
Tiffany Park and Renton Park Elementary Schools
Renton, WA

Julie Faulkner is a woman with a mission. “I really, truly hate bullying with a passion,” says the elementary school counselor. “My daughter was bullied when she was a little girl.”

When she came to Renton School District, she discovered that about half of her kids were on free and reduced lunch. “So we have the haves and the have-nots.” She’s worked hard to instill a culture of unity and respect among the diverse population. These factors led her to start using the STEPS TO RESPECT program in the classrooms she serves.

Julie knows from experience that it’s easy to feel vengeful toward people who bully. “But that’s the wrong attitude. It’s not going to solve anything.”

Instead, when she teaches kids the STEPS TO RESPECT skills of Recognizing, Refusing, and Reporting bullying, she reminds them, “A long time ago when I discovered bullying, I used to be so mad at kids who bully, because I thought they were just picking on people. But then I found out something amazing. Bullies have often been victims themselves. That’s why they know how to do it. So you can be mad at them, or you can remember that maybe they’re having a tough time, and they need your help and respect.”