11/17/09 Massachusetts: Considering ways to stem bullying in schools

State lawmakers are weighing more than a dozen bills designed to quell bullying in school - whether in the playground or over the Internet.

The bills define school bullying as behavior that is threatening or intimidating, or creates a hostile or abusive learning environment.

The bills would mandate school districts develop bullying prevention programs and require teachers to participate in anti-bullying training.

Supporters say that in the digital age, bullying means more than just taking someone's lunch money.

The bills would also target bullying by e-mail, texting or postings on Internet social media sites.

The bills are being heard Tuesday at the Statehouse before the Education Committee.