Bullying is a form of physical or emotional abuse that some students inflict on less powerful classmates. Bullying comes in various forms, as evidenced by growing concern. Although very unfortunate, current bullying statistics support this statement. Bullying in schools, rates among the highest ever. Researchers point out (which I believe is true) that an essential way to overcome the bullying epidemic is to increase awareness. It is vital that children bring any incidents with a bully to the attention of an adult or school authorities as they happen. Schools are the only place children need to go. Precisely for this reason it is necessary for the community to work together to make it a safe haven. Adults, as well as students themselves, can make a difference by coming together to make a change. To tackle bullying you need to make the problem known. Because of the widespread problem, teachers and school officials have been trained on how to handle bullies and de-escalate intense situations. In case the problem escalates beyond 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 sanctions or incentives, thus leaving implementation and enforcement in question. An important key to solving this problem is the education of young adolescents (National Middle School Association [NMSA], 2010) urges middle school teachers to create safe, inclusive, and supportive environments for all students. Bullying is often the most difficult obstacle to achieving this goal. Therefore, if it is not possible to eliminate it, educators and adults must do everything possible to minimize it. Bullying begins to elevate......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. I once again urge all educators and adults (not just middle school affiliates) to expand their knowledge of anti-bullying laws, training programs and support systems for students, all in an effort to make young people feel empowered. comfortable and confident enough to present the problem. to an adult who can help and eliminate the problem. This is the best way to handle bullying in public schools and start moving in a direction that will put an end to this problem. Works Cited Taylor, David. "bullying laws". request. proquest Dissertations and Theses, nd Web. November 21, 2013.Lester, Robin. “How many school staff receive an anti-bullying program.” request. thesis and thesis request, nd Web. 21 November 2013.