In honor of National Bullying Prevention Month, we asked Kern County parents to share their experiences and perspectives on bullying. From whether their child has experienced bullying to where it happens most often, what support families need, and the biggest barriers to addressing the issue, parents provided honest feedback that highlights both challenges and opportunities for change. In this feature, we share the survey results, community responses, and local resources available to help families, schools, and children work together to create safer, more supportive environments.

---

“There is no clear answer when kids feel like there will be retaliation. How do you change that?” — Amanda Roberts

• “More conversations with classes and school-wide. Act out examples so kids see it.” — Cindy Blackhawk
• “I think the problem is so prevalent and there is not really a solid way to address it… We need to reconnect on a human level to reiterate that actions have consequences and our peers are valuable human beings that deserve compassion.” — Kristen Foster
• “There needs to be more resources and interventions for kids. They need to be aware of where to go to report it.” — Karen Orellana
• “Not enough consequences for those that bully.” — Daisy Fernandez
• “Parents should be better informed.” — Teresa Harris
• “Parents whose kids bully others need to be held accountable.” — Stephannie Cole
• “There is more resources now but also social media has made it worse when it comes to bullying.” — Luis Carmona
• “I think parents need to set better examples. It’s easy to make comments when no one’s listening, but someone’s always listening.” — Becky Thomas
• “Bullying should not be taken lightly in school. It should be brought to the immediate attention of all immediate family members and school staff. They should suffer consequences.” — Anna Bernal

Bullying prevention in Kern County is supported by local school districts, county agencies, and crisis resources that provide reporting procedures, educational programs, and mental health support.

To find local support and resources, visit Bullying-in-Kern-County-Local-Support--Resources