Step 1: Set the Scene

Who is involved?

SCENARIO: A student comes to tell you that a fight broke out last week after school. He seems upset and afraid, but also proud that he found the courage to tell you.







1You thank the student for having found the courage to tell you about the situation. You ask him for the names of the student who was targeted, and of the student who started the fight. Then you go straight to the principal’s office to give her their names.

Your initial response recognizes the student’s action as positive and will likely encourage him to make the same choice in the future, and to come talk to you about all kinds of situations.

The decision to go immediately to the principal’s office may result in a missed opportunity to reinforce the student’s ability to be an ally. Building the capacities of students who are witnesses is one of the key ingredients leading to positive change in school culture.

The student’s safety has not been taken into account, putting him at risk of being “punished” by his peers. That may discourage him (as well as other students who may have wanted to take the same action) from speaking with you in the future.

2You ask the student why he waited so long to tell you, given the serious nature of the situation. You ask him for the name of the student who was targeted, and of the student who started the fight. Then you go straight to the principal’s office to give her their names.

3You thank the student for having found the courage to tell you about the situation. You encourage him to give you more information about the situation (see Module 7 for more details about helpful strategies). You ask the student what he may need in terms of support and to ensure his safety. As specified in the school’s protocol, you let him know that you will need to tell the principal, and that if the student agrees, it will be important for you to meet with him again in order to follow up on the situation.

Explanation of the recommended response.