Across the Rochester Public Schools (RPS) district, schools are working to teach students about preventing bullying. At MNSync Online, RPS’ online learning community that serves students in kindergarten through 12th grade, staff proactively foster a safe and inclusive environment for its students by implementing strategies to address the unique challenges of the online learning landscape.
"The absence of physical spaces like lunchrooms and hallways where bullying often occurs is a significant advantage in the online setting," explained Heather Duellman, a school counselor at MNSync Online. "There's really nowhere for students to hide and bully others, as the teachers are present in every virtual classroom."
Heather leads bullying prevention efforts for MNSync Online’s school counselor team. She has witnessed first-hand the benefits of the online environment in reducing peer-to-peer conflict, a common issue in traditional schools.
"In the physical school setting, you see a lot more drama and social dynamics that can lead to bullying," she said. "But here, the teachers are right there, and students can't get away with saying unkind things without being held accountable."
In addition to closely monitoring virtual classrooms, MNSync Online has established a "what I need" virtual room, a safe space where students can seek support if they are struggling with technology, social, emotional, or academic challenges. A teacher, counselor, or social worker is always present in this virtual room.
The online school also prioritizes building a strong community within each classroom, encouraging students to collaborate, get to know one another, and develop meaningful connections. "The teachers are really good at creating that community feel, even in a virtual setting,” said Heather.
“They facilitate activities and discussions that help students feel comfortable and supported."
While the online environment may present unique social challenges, MNSync Online proactively addresses them. "We go over different types of bullying, including the 'keyboard warrior' mentality that can arise with technology and social media," she said. "Students are encouraged to report any inappropriate behavior, and we address it immediately to prevent further harm."
For parents considering online education, the focus on bullying prevention and social-emotional support may be a significant factor. "I think the change of environment is really beneficial for students who have experienced bullying or drama in their traditional school settings," she said. “They don't have to worry about that here and can focus on their learning and personal growth."
As MNSync Online continues to navigate the evolving landscape of online education, its commitment to creating a safe and inclusive community remains a top priority. "We're all in this together. The teachers, the administration, and the students – we're all working towards the same goal of fostering a positive and supportive learning environment."
If you have a student considering MNSync Online’s unique online learning platform, additional information can be found on MNSync Online’s website: https://www.rochesterschools.org/o/mnso/