Goal: Position yourself in safe spaces and avoid high-risk situations where bullying is more likely to occur
Map Your School's Safe Zones: Identify 5-7 locations where adults are always present (library, main office, teacher classrooms during lunch, counselor's office, computer lab)
- Expected result: You'll have specific places to go when you need safety or support
Avoid High-Risk Areas: Stay away from empty hallways, secluded stairwells, bathrooms during class time, and areas behind buildings where supervision is minimal
- Expected result: You'll significantly reduce your chances of encountering bullying situations
Time Your Movements Strategically: Use the bathroom during class breaks when others are around, walk to your locker when hallways are busy, and avoid being the last person in changing areas
- Expected result: You'll rarely find yourself alone in vulnerable situations
Establish "Buddy Routes": Plan to walk with friends between classes, especially to areas that feel less safe
- Expected result: You'll have companionship during transitions and appear less vulnerable
Create a "Safe Person" Network: Identify 3-4 teachers or staff members whose classrooms you can visit if you need immediate help
- Expected result: You'll always have nearby adults you can approach quickly
Use the "Visibility Strategy": When you must be in potentially risky areas, position yourself where you can be seen by others (near doorways, in well-lit areas, close to main pathways)
- Expected result: Potential bullies will be deterred by the presence of witnesses
If your classes are in isolated areas: Ask a teacher if you can arrive a few minutes early or stay a few minutes late to avoid empty hallway times
If you must use facilities during risky times: Bring a friend or ask a teacher if you can use the staff restroom
If bullies follow you to safe areas: Report this escalation to an adult immediately - this is stalking behavior that requires intervention
You'll know you're done when: You move through school confidently while avoiding situations where bullying typically occurs
- You can name at least 5 safe spaces where you can go for help
- You've established walking routes that keep you in supervised areas
- You rarely find yourself alone in isolated parts of the school
- You have backup plans for getting help in different areas of the building
- You feel confident navigating school because you know where safety and support are located
Ready for next step? With strategic navigation skills in place, you're ready to build relationships with trusted adults who can provide guidance and intervention when needed.