Bullying is a type of physical or emotional violence that some students inflict on their less powerful peers. Bullying takes many forms and is a growing concern. Although this is very unfortunate, current bullying statistics support this statement. Bullying in schools is one of the highest forms of all. Researchers note (and I believe to be true) that a key way to get ahead of the bullying epidemic is to raise awareness. It is imperative that children bring any incident involving a bully to the attention of an adult or school authorities while it is happening. Schools are the only place children should go. This is precisely why the community must work together to make this a safe haven. Adults, as well as students themselves, can make a difference by coming together to make a change. To combat harassment, we must raise awareness of the problem. Because of the scale of the problem, teachers and school officials have been trained on how to deal with bullies and defuse intense situations. In the event that the problem escalates out of control, laws have been put in place to protect students. Although many efforts have been made to implement new anti-bullying laws, these lack effectiveness, due to minimal penalties or incentives, leaving implementation and enforcement in question. A major key to solving this problem is the education of young adolescents (National Middle School [NMSA], 2010) urges middle school teachers to create safe, inclusive, and supportive environments for all students. Harassment is often the most difficult obstacle to overcome in achieving this goal. Therefore, if it cannot be eliminated, educators and adults must take all possible measures to minimize it. Bullying starts at a height...... middle of paper ......the severity of this problem leaves no time to waste. Acting immediately and effectively could mean the difference between life and death in serious situations. Once again, I urge all educators and adults (not just college affiliates) to increase their knowledge of anti-bullying laws, creating programs and support systems for students, all with the goal to make young people feel comfortable and safe enough to present the problem. to an adult who can help and eliminate the problem. This is the best way to get a handle on bullying in public schools and start moving in a direction that will end this problem. Works Cited Taylor, David. “bullying laws”. quest. dissertations and research theses, nd Web. November 21, 2013.Lester, Robin. “How many school staff benefit from an anti-bullying program.” quest. dissertation and research thesis, nd Web. November 21 2013.