A Call for Change in School Bullying Response

SINGAPORE — Changemaker alert! Education Minister Desmond Lee has voiced a strong commitment to revamping how schools handle bullying, saying it’s time for a system upgrade. "There’s significant room for improvement," he declared on August 27, highlighting the delays in communication between schools and anxious parents as a crucial area needing attention.

During his first media address on the subject, Lee stressed that any form of bullying is simply unacceptable. He emphasized the need for collaboration between parents and schools to foster trust and transparency.

Four Key Focus Areas for Reform

As part of a comprehensive review by the Ministry of Education (MOE), which has been ongoing since 2025, Lee identified four targeted areas for improvement. These include: 1) Strengthening school culture and processes, 2) Amplifying values education for students, 3) Enhancing support for educators, and 4) Fostering stronger partnerships with parents.

The ministry aims to fortify school policies surrounding bullying, reassess its disciplinary frameworks, and improve rehabilitation and restorative practices. Notably, the existing reporting channels for victims will be made more user-friendly.

Ongoing Consultations for Lasting Change

Lee announced that consultations with parents, teachers, and professionals will continue through the end of 2025. The MOE is set to unveil key recommendations by mid-2026, paving the way for concrete action.

Recent Incidents Spark Urgency in Addressing Bullying

The urgency of these reforms is underscored by alarming recent incidents, including a shocking case from Sengkang Green Primary School where a Primary 3 student issued death threats against a classmate's mother. Additionally, a viral video showing a student wielding a knife and a brawl involving three students at Montfort Secondary School have sent shockwaves through the community.

Lee acknowledged that these finding triggers rising concerns about children’s safety in and out of school, saying, "Our children today are navigating increasingly complex social landscapes, often exacerbated by online interactions on platforms like WhatsApp and social media that didn’t even exist when we were young."

A Shift Towards Positive Communication

As public scrutiny grows, parents are urging for improved transparency in schools' handling of bullying cases, including disciplinary measures. Lee recognized the aggravation of these issues, stating that educators must facilitate reflections among students while sometimes involving law enforcement for severe cases.

Empathy and Guidance: Key Takeaways

In highlighting the unique challenges posed by differing accounts of bullying incidents, Lee stressed the need for educators to navigate these complexities thoughtfully. However, he remained optimistic: "Children have the potential to learn and thrive with the right support. We must continue to improve our approaches."

To nurture empathy, the MOE plans to enhance Character and Citizenship Education lessons incorporating real-world scenarios. Coupled with professional development for teachers, this initiative aims to forge a more supportive school environment.

Parents Weigh In: A Call for Action

Parent Melisse Lee expressed her hopes for the MOE's commitment to a zero-tolerance policy on bullying. She underlined the importance of avoiding language that could inadvertently blame victims and push them towards seeking justice through social media.

Clinical psychologist Carol Balhetchet praised the ministry’s renewed focus, advocating for comprehensive support for both bullies and victims. She noted the need for educators and parents to engage effectively to break the vicious cycle of bullying.

A Commitment to Safe and Supportive Schools

As we stand on the brink of this pivotal shift, Lee concluded, "Our schools must remain sanctuaries for children—a place where they can explore their identities, form friendships, and reach their fullest potential. The journey towards improvement is ongoing, and we’re dedicated to making lasting changes for our children’s safety and well-being."