Role of State Policies in Addressing Bullying of Immigrant Students in Maryland

1. How does Maryland address the unique challenges faced by immigrant students in regards to bullying?


Maryland has implemented several initiatives and policies to address the unique challenges faced by immigrant students in regards to bullying. These include:

1. Anti-Bullying Policies: Maryland has a statewide anti-bullying policy that prohibits discrimination and harassment based on race, ethnicity, religion, national origin, immigration status, and other categories. This policy applies to all students, including immigrants.

2. Multicultural Education: The state includes multicultural education in its curriculum to promote understanding and respect for diverse cultures and backgrounds. This helps to create a more inclusive school environment for immigrant students.

3. English Language Learner (ELL) Programs: Maryland provides ELL programs for immigrant students who are still learning English. These programs offer extra support and resources to help them navigate the school system and improve their language skills.

4. Immigrant Support Centers: Many schools in Maryland have established support centers specifically for immigrant students and families. These centers provide resources such as translation services, cultural sensitivity training, counseling services, and information on immigration laws.

5. Cultural Competency Training: Teachers and staff in Maryland are required to undergo regular training on cultural competency and diversity awareness. This helps them understand the backgrounds of their students better and creates a more inclusive environment for all students.

6. Reporting Systems: Schools in Maryland have reporting systems in place to allow students to report incidents of bullying or discrimination anonymously if they feel uncomfortable speaking up directly.

7. Collaboration with Community Organizations: The state works closely with community organizations that specialize in supporting immigrants to ensure that schools have access to resources and support services for immigrant students.

8. Personalized Education Plans (PEPs): PEPs are created for individual students who are struggling academically or emotionally, including immigrant students facing bullying or other challenges. These plans outline strategies for addressing these concerns and provide additional academic support if needed.

Overall, Maryland is committed to creating an inclusive school environment where all students can learn without fear of discrimination or bullying. By addressing the unique challenges faced by immigrant students, the state aims to promote their academic and emotional well-being.

2. What policies does Maryland have in place to prevent bullying of immigrant students in schools?


Maryland has several policies in place to prevent bullying of immigrant students in schools. Some of these include:

1. Anti-Bullying Laws: Maryland has anti-bullying laws that include protections for immigrant students. The state’s bullying prevention law defines harassment as “unwanted, targeted, repeated, or continuous physical, verbal, written, or electronic conduct that has the purpose or effect of causing harm to a student’s physical or emotional well-being,” which includes targeting individuals based on their race, ethnicity, national origin or immigration status.

2. Non-Discrimination Policy: All public schools in Maryland are required to have a non-discrimination policy that prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin and immigration status.

3. School-Wide Prevention Programs: Maryland encourages schools to implement school-wide positive behavior interventions and support programs to promote a positive and inclusive school climate. These programs aim to prevent bullying by promoting respect and celebrating diversity among students.

4. Reporting Procedures: Schools in Maryland are required to have procedures in place for students and parents to report incidents of bullying. These procedures must be readily accessible and clearly communicated to all students and staff.

5. Staff Training: All school staff members are required to receive training on how to identify and address incidents of bullying and harassment.

6. Multicultural Education: To promote cultural understanding and inclusivity among students, Maryland encourages schools to provide multicultural education programs that highlight the contributions of diverse cultural groups.

7. Community Partnerships: Some districts in Maryland have established partnerships with local organizations serving immigrant communities to provide additional support for immigrant students who may be at risk of bullying.

8. Language Access Policies: To ensure effective communication with immigrant families who may not speak English fluently, many schools in Maryland have language access policies in place that require interpretation services for parent-teacher conferences and other essential communications.

9. Counseling Services: Many schools in Maryland offer counseling services for students who have experienced bullying or who may be at risk of being bullied. These services can also provide support for immigrant students dealing with cultural adjustment issues.

Overall, Maryland is committed to creating a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students, including immigrants, and these policies play an essential role in preventing bullying and promoting acceptance and respect among all students.

3. How does the state’s education system support and protect immigrant students from being bullied?

The state’s education system typically has policies in place to protect immigrant students from bullying and discrimination. These may include:

1. Anti-discrimination and Harassment Policies: Most states have anti-discrimination and harassment policies that explicitly prohibit bullying based on a student’s race, ethnicity, national origin, or immigration status. These policies outline the consequences for such behavior and provide a mechanism for reporting and addressing incidents of bullying.

2. Training for Educators: Many districts provide training for teachers and staff on how to recognize and intervene in instances of bullying, especially in cases involving immigrant students. This training often includes strategies for creating inclusive and welcoming classrooms where all students feel valued and respected.

3. Multilingual Support: Immigrant students may face additional challenges if they are not proficient in English, particularly when it comes to addressing incidents of bullying or discrimination. State education systems may offer translation and interpreter services to ensure that these students can access the necessary support and resources.

4. Culturally Responsive Teaching: Schools can also implement culturally responsive teaching practices that recognize and celebrate the diverse backgrounds of their students. This approach promotes inclusivity and creates an environment where immigrant students feel safe, supported, and valued.

5. Mental Health Services: Bullying can have serious emotional consequences for any student, but it can be even more damaging for immigrant students who may already be struggling with culture shock or other challenges related to their immigration status. State education systems often provide mental health services to help support the overall well-being of immigrant students.

6. Partnerships with Community Organizations: Education systems may also partner with community organizations that specialize in supporting immigrants to provide additional resources, such as language classes or cultural events, that help create a sense of belonging for immigrant students within their schools.

In addition to these measures, some states have passed laws specifically aimed at protecting immigrant students from bullying and discrimination. For example, California’s AB 196 will require school districts to develop procedures for addressing and preventing bullying based on immigration status. Similarly, New York’s Dignity for All Students Act (DASA) requires schools to provide a safe and supportive environment for all students, including those who may be targets of bullying or discrimination.

4. What resources are available for immigrant students who experience bullying in Maryland schools?


1. Maryland State Department of Education: The Maryland State Department of Education offers resources and support for immigrant students experiencing bullying in schools. They have a comprehensive Bullying Awareness and Prevention website that provides information on identifying and reporting bullying, as well as guidance for schools on implementing effective prevention strategies. They also have a toll-free hotline (1-877-636-6332) for reporting incidents of bullying.

2. Office of the Attorney General – Civil Rights Division: The Civil Rights Division of the Maryland Attorney General’s Office handles complaints related to discrimination and harassment based on race, national origin, or immigration status. They offer legal assistance and resources for immigrant students who have experienced bullying in school.

3. Maryland Coalition Against Sexual Assault (MCASA): MCASA offers a range of services for victims, including bullying prevention education programs to schools statewide. They also have a 24/7 sexual assault hotline (1-800-422-0009) for anyone seeking support and resources.

4. Anti-Defamation League (ADL) – Washington D.C./Baltimore Regional Office: ADL’s Washington D.C./Baltimore Regional Office provides educational programs to promote safe and respectful school environments, with an emphasis on addressing issues such as bullying, bias, and intolerance. They also offer anti-bullying workshops for students, parents, and educators.

5. Local School District Resources: Many local school districts in Maryland have dedicated staff or programs focused on addressing bullying in schools. These can include counseling services, peer mediation programs, or targeted interventions for at-risk students.

6. Children’s Defense Fund – Baltimore: The Children’s Defense Fund offers support and advocacy services for children facing social, economic, or educational challenges in Baltimore City and Prince George’s County.

7. Counseling Centers: Many counseling centers across Maryland offer resources specifically designed to support immigrant students dealing with issues such as bullying in school.

8. Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline: The SAMHSA National Helpline (1-800-662-HELP) provides 24/7 free and confidential treatment referral and information services for individuals facing mental health or substance use disorders. They can also provide guidance on finding support specifically tailored to the needs of immigrant students dealing with bullying.

9. Community-based Organizations: There are several community-based organizations in Maryland that provide support, resources, and advocacy for immigrant communities. These organizations may have specific programs or services targeting bullying prevention and support for immigrant students.

10. Peer Support Networks: Immigrant students can also reach out to peer support networks in their schools, such as multicultural student groups or language exchange clubs, to find connections and support from other students who share similar experiences.

5. How has Maryland implemented inclusive and culturally sensitive anti-bullying policies for immigrant students?


The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) has implemented several policies and initiatives to promote inclusive and culturally sensitive anti-bullying practices for immigrant students. Here are some examples:

1. Maryland Safe Schools Act: In 2013, the state passed the Maryland Safe Schools Act, which requires every school district in the state to develop anti-bullying policies that include specific provisions for protecting vulnerable student populations, including immigrant and refugee students.

2. Cultural Competency Standards: MSDE has established cultural competency standards for all school personnel, including teachers, administrators, and support staff. These standards require school staff to be aware of and respect cultural differences among students, and to address any prejudice or discrimination that may arise.

3. Diversity Awareness Training: MSDE provides diversity awareness training for all educators through its Educator Effectiveness Academies. This training includes strategies for creating a positive learning environment that is sensitive to the needs of diverse students, including immigrant students.

4. Multicultural Education Program: Maryland also has a Multicultural Education Program that focuses on providing culturally responsive education to all students, particularly those from diverse backgrounds such as immigrants and refugees. This program offers resources for educators to incorporate cultural diversity into their curriculum and create a welcoming school climate.

5. Anti-Bullying Resources: MSDE offers a variety of resources for schools and educators on how to prevent bullying and promote inclusive practices in the classroom. These resources include toolkits specifically designed for addressing bullying among immigrant youth.

6.Anti-Discrimination Policies: MSDE has established clear guidelines prohibiting discrimination based on ethnicity or immigration status in schools. This includes protection from harassment or intimidation due to national origin or language barriers.

7.Multilingual Support Services: Many schools in Maryland offer multilingual support services such as bilingual counselors or translators to help immigrant students feel more comfortable and supported at school.

Overall, these policies and initiatives show that the state of Maryland is committed to promoting inclusive and culturally sensitive anti-bullying practices for immigrant students in its schools.

6. In what ways do the state’s policies hold schools accountable for addressing incidents of bullying against immigrant students?


The state’s policies hold schools accountable for addressing incidents of bullying against immigrant students in several ways:

1. Anti-bullying Policies: The state requires all schools to have anti-bullying policies that specifically address the issue of bullying against immigrant students. These policies must include clear definitions of bullying and harassment, procedures for reporting and investigating incidents, and consequences for both the bully and the victim.

2. Reporting Requirements: Schools are required to report all incidents of bullying against immigrant students to the state education department. This helps to track the prevalence of bullying and ensure that schools are taking appropriate steps to address it.

3. Cultural Competency Training: Schools are required to provide training for staff on cultural competency and sensitivity towards immigrant students. This is aimed at helping school staff understand the unique challenges faced by immigrant students and how to effectively support and protect them.

4. Support Services: Schools are expected to provide support services for immigrant students who have been bullied, such as counseling or access to community resources. This is meant to help victims recover from the trauma of bullying and prevent future incidents.

5. Implementation Reviews: The state education department conducts periodic reviews of schools’ anti-bullying policies and implementation efforts, with a specific focus on how they address bullying targeting immigrant students.

6. Collaboration with Community Organizations: The state encourages schools to collaborate with community organizations that work with immigrants, such as advocacy groups or cultural centers, in addressing issues of bullying against immigrant students. This can provide additional support and resources for both victims and school staff.

Overall, these policies aim to create a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students, including immigrants, by holding schools accountable for addressing incidents of bullying against this vulnerable population.

7. What measures does Maryland take to educate both students and teachers about diversity, inclusion and respect towards immigrant classmates?


1. Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in Curriculum: The Maryland State Department of Education has integrated diversity and inclusion into its state standards of education, promoting a curriculum that celebrates cultural diversity and encourages respect towards all students.

2. Mandatory Training for Teachers: All teachers in Maryland are required to complete training on equity, diversity, and cultural competency as part of their professional development. This training focuses on creating an inclusive learning environment for all students, including immigrant students.

3. Cultural Competency Resources for Educators: The Maryland State Department of Education provides resources and support for educators to develop cultural competency and promote diversity in the classroom. This includes access to books, teaching materials, lesson plans, and professional development opportunities.

4. Inclusive Classroom Practices: Educators in Maryland are encouraged to implement inclusive practices such as using multicultural literature, incorporating diverse perspectives into lessons, and celebrating different cultures within the classroom.

5. Encouraging Respectful Interactions: Educators are also trained on promoting respectful interactions among students from diverse backgrounds. This includes addressing issues such as stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination in the classroom.

6. Community Partnerships: Schools in Maryland often collaborate with local community organizations that serve immigrant populations to provide opportunities for students to learn about different cultures and backgrounds through community events and programs.

7. Creating Safe Spaces: Many schools in Maryland have established safe spaces or affinity groups for immigrant students where they can feel supported and share their experiences with others who may have similar backgrounds.

In summary, Maryland takes a multi-faceted approach towards educating both students and teachers about diversity, inclusion, and respect towards immigrant classmates by incorporating it into the curriculum, providing mandatory training for teachers, offering resources for educators, promoting inclusive classroom practices, fostering respectful interactions among students from diverse backgrounds, forming partnerships with community organizations,and creating safe spaces for immigrant students within schools.

8. How has Maryland collaborated with community organizations to address and prevent bullying of immigrant students?


Maryland has collaborated with community organizations in several ways to address and prevent bullying of immigrant students:

1. Governors’ Commission on Hispanic Affairs: The Governor’s Commission on Hispanic Affairs works closely with Maryland’s immigrant communities to promote awareness, enhance education and reduce barriers in the areas of health, education, employment, housing and business ownership.

2. Multicultural liaisons: Many schools in Maryland have designated multicultural liaisons who work closely with immigrant families to provide support and resources for students who may be facing bullying. These liaisons act as a bridge between school staff and families, ensuring that cultural differences are understood and addressed.

3. Language access: To ensure that immigrant parents can actively engage in their child’s education, Maryland has implemented policies that provide language access services such as translation and interpretation services for non-English speaking families.

4. Community-based organizations: Maryland has partnered with several community-based organizations (CBOs) which work directly with immigrant families, providing resources and support to address issues like bullying. Examples include the Eastern Shore Migrant Education program which supports migrant farmworker students and the Montgomery County Coalition for Immigrant Student Rights which collaborates with schools to raise awareness about cultural diversity and prevent bullying.

5. Anti-bullying initiatives: The state of Maryland has implemented anti-bullying initiatives in schools that specifically address the unique challenges faced by immigrant students. For example, a program called Bully-Free Schools focuses on promoting diversity, teaching tolerance and respect for all cultures.

6. Student-led campaigns: Community organizations have also worked with schools to launch student-led campaigns against bullying among immigrant students. For instance, the “Stand Up! Don’t Stand By” campaign created by local youth aims to increase awareness about bullying behaviors among their peers.

7. Training programs: Maryland’s Department of Education provides training programs for educators on how to effectively support immigrant students who may be targets of bullying due to their cultural background or limited English proficiency.

8. Multicultural events: Schools in Maryland also regularly hold multicultural events, such as International Night, to celebrate different cultures and encourage inclusivity amongst students. These events create a platform for immigrant students to share their culture and traditions with their peers, fostering a more welcoming and inclusive environment.

9. What steps does the state take to ensure that the language barrier does not contribute to bullying among immigrant students in its schools?


The state takes several steps to ensure that the language barrier does not contribute to bullying among immigrant students in its schools:

1. Providing Language Assistance: Many schools have ESL (English as a Second Language) programs that provide language assistance for students who are non-native English speakers. These programs help students improve their English skills and better communicate with their peers.

2. Cultural Sensitivity Training: Teachers and staff members undergo training to become more aware of cultural differences and learn how to work effectively with students from diverse backgrounds. This helps create a more inclusive and respectful environment for all students.

3. Promoting Diversity and Inclusion: Schools organize activities and events that celebrate diversity and promote inclusivity. This helps foster a sense of belonging among immigrant students, reducing the likelihood of them being targeted for bullying.

4. Encouraging Peer Support: Schools encourage peer support groups where immigrant students can interact with native speakers in an informal setting. This provides opportunities for mutual learning, understanding, and building relationships, which can reduce incidents of bullying.

5. Implementing Anti-Bullying Policies: Schools have strict policies against bullying, including actions based on ethnicity or race. These policies are regularly communicated to teachers, staff, and students to ensure they are aware of the consequences of bullying behavior.

6. Parental Involvement: Schools involve parents of immigrant students in various initiatives such as parent-teacher conferences, cultural events and volunteering opportunities to facilitate positive interactions between families from different backgrounds.

7. Use of Technology: Some schools use language translation apps or hire translators to assist with communication between non-English speaking parents and school staff.

8. Supporting Mental Health Needs: The state also has mental health counselors or professionals available in schools who can support immigrant students experiencing stress or anxiety due to language barriers or discrimination.

9. Reporting Mechanisms: Schools have a system in place for students to report any incidents of bullying anonymously if they feel uncomfortable coming forward directly. This helps create a safer space for students to speak up and seek help if needed.

10. How has Maryland’s legislation addressed cyberbullying targeting immigrant students?


Maryland has implemented several laws and initiatives to address cyberbullying targeting immigrant students. These include:

1. The Anti-Bullying Act: This state law, passed in 2013, requires all public schools in Maryland to adopt policies prohibiting bullying and cyberbullying.

2. Immigration Resource Guide for Students and Families: In 2017, the Maryland State Department of Education created a resource guide specifically for immigrant students and families, which includes information on how to report bullying or discrimination.

3. Multilingual Hotlines: The Maryland State Board of Education provides multilingual hotlines for students and families to report incidents of bullying or harassment.

4. Cyberbullying Prevention Task Force: In 2018, Maryland established a task force focused on preventing cyberbullying in schools, including targeting immigrant students.

5. Culturally Responsive Teaching Program: Many schools in Maryland have implemented programs that promote culturally responsive teaching practices, helping create an inclusive environment that reduces the potential for discriminatory behavior towards immigrant students.

6. Student Safety Reporting System (SSRS): All schools in Maryland are required to use SSRS to track reports of bullying and harassment, including those specifically targeting immigrant students.

7. Expanding Hate Crimes Law: In 2019, Maryland expanded its hate crime law to include cyberbullying as a form of harassment based on race, religion, gender identity or other protected characteristics.

8. Collaboration with Community Organizations: The state also works with community organizations that provide support services for immigrant communities to help them address issues such as cyberbullying targeting their members.

9. Cultural Awareness Training for Staff: Some schools in Maryland offer cultural awareness training for staff members to help them better understand and support the needs of immigrant students who may be targeted by cyberbullies.

10. Public Awareness Campaigns: State departments regularly launch public awareness campaigns aimed at educating the public about bullying and its impact on immigrant communities and providing resources for those affected.

11. Does Maryland have any specific laws or regulations protecting the rights of immigrant students against bullying?


Yes, Maryland has specific laws and regulations protecting the rights of immigrant students against bullying. These laws include:

1. The Anti-Bullying Law: This law defines bullying as any repeated or aggressive behavior intended to harm, intimidate, or humiliate a student based on their race, ethnicity, national origin, immigration status, citizenship status, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, physical or mental disability.
2. The Maryland Safe Schools Act: This law requires schools to create an environment free from discrimination and harassment based on a student’s perceived or actual immigration status.
3. The Dignity for All Students Act (DASA): This law prohibits school officials from disclosing a student’s immigration status unless required by law.
4. The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA): This federal law requires schools to address bullying and harassment incidents that specifically target students with diverse backgrounds and characteristics.
5. Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964: This federal law prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin in all programs receiving federal funds.
6. Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA): This federal law protects students with disabilities from discrimination and harassment in school.

In addition to these laws, the Maryland State Department of Education also has policies in place to ensure that immigrant students are protected against bullying and discrimination in school. For instance, schools must have policies for addressing bullying incidents and provide training for staff on how to recognize and respond to bullying.

If an immigrant student experiences bullying at school because of their immigration status, they can file a complaint with the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) at the U.S. Department of Education. They can also report the incident to their school’s administration.

Ultimately, it is the responsibility of school administrators to ensure that immigrant students are protected from bullying and harassment in a safe learning environment.

12. How do immigration policies at national level impact the safety of immigrant students in Maryland’s school systems?

At the national level, immigration policies can have a significant impact on the safety of immigrant students in Maryland’s school systems. Here are a few ways this can play out:

1. Fear and Anxiety Amongst Students: Harsh immigration policies and rhetoric can create fear and anxiety amongst immigrant students in Maryland, as well as their families. This fear can lead to increased stress and difficulty focusing in school, which can ultimately impact their academic performance and overall well-being.

2. School Resource Officer Programs: Many schools in Maryland have partnerships with local law enforcement agencies through School Resource Officer programs. However, if these officers are also involved in federal immigration enforcement activities, it can create a hostile environment for immigrant students who may not trust these officers or feel safe coming forward to report bullying or other safety concerns.

3. Access to Education: Immigration policies such as DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) and TPS (Temporary Protected Status) play a critical role in ensuring that undocumented immigrants have access to education and are able to attend college in Maryland. Any changes or rollbacks to these policies could limit educational opportunities for immigrant students and make them feel unwelcome in the school system.

4. Increased Bullying and Discrimination: Negative attitudes towards immigrants at the national level can trickle down to schools where these attitudes may manifest into bullying or discrimination against immigrant students. This not only creates an unsafe environment for these students but can also contribute to their feelings of isolation and belongingness.

5. Limited Resources for Immigrants: Immigration policies that restrict access to social services or healthcare for undocumented immigrants may also affect the safety of immigrant students. Without proper resources, these students may face challenges related to physical and mental health issues which could impact their overall well-being.

In conclusion, immigration policies at the national level have far-reaching implications that directly or indirectly impact the safety of immigrant students in Maryland’s school systems. It is crucial for policymakers to consider the potential effects of immigration policies on the well-being and safety of these students when making decisions at the national level. Additionally, schools can work towards creating a supportive and inclusive environment for all students, regardless of their immigration status.

13. Are there any specialized training programs for educators and staff on how to effectively handle bullying incidents involving immigrants?


Yes, there are several organizations that offer specialized training programs for educators and staff on how to effectively address bullying incidents involving immigrants. Some examples include:
– Teaching Tolerance: They offer a variety of workshops, webinars, and materials focused on addressing bias and promoting diversity in schools.
– Welcoming Schools: This program provides professional development training specifically for K-8 educators on creating inclusive, supportive school environments for LGBTQ students and immigrant families.
– Anti-Defamation League (ADL): They offer a range of trainings and resources focused on preventing and responding to bias-based bullying, including specific modules on addressing immigrant harassment.
– National Education Association (NEA): The NEA offers online courses for educators and support staff on topics such as culturally responsive teaching, anti-bullying strategies, and building inclusive classrooms for new immigrant students.

14. Are there any specific guidelines or protocols in place for handling reports of bullying directed towards immigrants in schools across Maryland?

Yes, Maryland has specific guidelines in place for handling incidents of bullying directed towards immigrants in schools. These guidelines are outlined in the state’s “Bullying, Harassment, or Intimidation of any Student Prohibited” policy and include the following:

– Educators must intervene immediately to stop any incident of bullying, harassment, or intimidation targeting an immigrant student.
– School administrators must take steps to investigate the incident and document all details and findings.
– Parents or guardians of the targeted student must be notified about the incident and provided with resources and support.
– Appropriate discipline should be given to students who engage in acts of discrimination, harassment, or intimidation against immigrants.
– Schools should provide training for students, staff, and parents on recognizing and addressing bullying directed towards immigrants.
– Schools should create a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students.
Additionally, Maryland has laws that specifically address hate crimes based on race or national origin. These laws may also apply to incidents of bullying targeted towards immigrants.

15. How does Maryland’s department of education collaborate with other agencies or organizations to support bullied immigrant students?


Maryland’s department of education collaborates with various agencies and organizations to provide support and resources for bullied immigrant students. This collaboration includes:

1. Interagency Collaboration: The Maryland State Department of Education works closely with other state agencies, such as the Department of Health and Human Services, to support immigrant students who are victims of bullying. Through this collaboration, they offer services such as mental health support, counseling, and social services to affected students.

2. Partnerships with Local Community Organizations: The Maryland State Department of Education partners with local community organizations that work specifically with immigrant communities to provide support for bullied students. These partnerships help in identifying students who may be experiencing bullying and provide them with necessary guidance and resources.

3. Training Programs: The department collaborates with advocacy groups, such as the National Association for Bilingual Education (NABE), to conduct training programs for teachers, counselors, and school staff on how to identify and address bullying among immigrant students.

4. Multilingual Resources: The department works closely with organizations that specialize in language access services to develop multilingual resources for both students and parents. This helps ensure that immigrant families can access information about bullying prevention and interventions in languages they understand.

5. Federal Agencies Collaboration: The Maryland State Department of Education also collaborates with federal agencies such as the U.S. Office for Civil Rights (OCR) to investigate any reports of discrimination or harassment against immigrant students under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

6. School Climate Improvement: At a school level, the department collaborates with organizations like the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) to promote positive school climate initiatives that foster inclusivity, respect, and tolerance among all students regardless of their immigration status.

Overall, these collaborations aim to create a safe and supportive environment for bullied immigrant students in Maryland schools by addressing their unique needs through various resources and strategies.

16. Has there been a decrease in reported cases of bullying among immigrants since implementing certain state-level policies?


It is difficult to determine whether there has been a decrease in reported cases of bullying among immigrants specifically due to state-level policies. There are many factors that can contribute to changes in reported cases of bullying, such as increased awareness and reporting, shifts in demographics, and changes in cultural attitudes. Additionally, it is not possible to definitively link a decrease in reported cases to a specific policy due to the complex nature of bullying behavior.

That being said, some states have implemented policies and initiatives aimed at reducing bullying among immigrant populations, including anti-bullying laws that protect students from discrimination based on their immigration status. However, it is ultimately up to individual schools and communities to address and prevent instances of bullying.

Overall, it is important for ongoing research and evaluation on the effectiveness of state-level policies aimed at reducing bullying among immigrant populations.

17. Has there been an increase in diversity initiatives or cultural awareness programs within schools as a result of addressing issues related to bullying on immigrants?

There has been some increase in diversity initiatives and cultural awareness programs within schools as a result of addressing issues related to bullying on immigrants. However, the extent of these initiatives varies depending on the school district and community.

Some schools have implemented programs specifically focused on promoting diversity and inclusion, such as cultural competency training for teachers and staff, multicultural events and celebrations, and peer education programs that promote understanding and acceptance of different cultures.

In addition, many schools have incorporated discussions about immigration, diversity, and cultural sensitivity into their curriculum. This can include lessons about immigration history, cultural traditions, and the importance of respecting diverse perspectives.

However, there is still room for improvement in terms of addressing issues related to bullying on immigrants. Many advocates argue that there needs to be more comprehensive policies in place to address discrimination and hate speech against immigrant students. This can include stricter consequences for bullying behaviors related to race or ethnicity, as well as more comprehensive education for students about the harmful effects of discrimination.

Overall, while there has been some progress in terms of implementing diversity initiatives and cultural awareness programs, there is still a need for continued efforts to create a more inclusive environment for immigrant students in schools.

18. Are there any consequences for schools that do not adequately address bullying towards immigrant students within Maryland’s education system?


Yes, there could be consequences for schools that do not adequately address bullying towards immigrant students within Maryland’s education system. Some possible consequences include:

1. Legal action: If a student or their family feels that the school is not providing a safe and inclusive environment for immigrant students, they may choose to take legal action against the school.

2. Loss of funding: The Maryland Department of Education allocates funding to schools based on various factors, one of which is creating a safe and positive learning environment for all students. If a school fails to address bullying towards immigrant students, it could potentially lose funding from the state.

3. Negative publicity: Failure to address bullying towards immigrant students can also result in negative publicity for the school, affecting its reputation in the community and potentially leading to decreased enrollment.

4. Intervention by education officials: The Maryland State Department of Education has policies and procedures in place for handling complaints of discrimination and bullying in schools. If a school fails to adequately address bullying towards immigrant students, state education officials may intervene and work with the school to improve their policies and practices.

5. Investigation by civil rights organizations: Civil rights organizations such as the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) may investigate schools that are reportedly failing to protect immigrant students from bullying and harassment. This can lead to further consequences such as legal action or public pressure on the school to make changes.

Overall, it is important for schools in Maryland to prioritize addressing bullying towards immigrant students not only because it is a legal obligation but also for creating an inclusive and welcoming learning environment for all students.

19. Have there been any successful case studies or best practices in Maryland for addressing bullying among immigrant students?


Yes, there have been successful case studies and best practices in Maryland for addressing bullying among immigrant students. One example is the Comprehensive Model for Accelerated Immigrant Student Success (CMAISS) program implemented by Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS). This program aims to improve academic success and emotional well-being of immigrant students, including those who are victims of bullying or bias-related incidents.

The CMAISS program provides targeted support to immigrant students through initiatives such as cultural competency training for staff, peer mentoring programs, and language assistance services. The program also incorporates restorative practices to promote positive behavior and prevent bullying incidents among students.

In addition, MCPS has implemented the Safe and Welcoming Schools initiative which addresses student diversity, equity, and inclusion. Through this initiative, schools implement strategies to create a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students, including immigrants.

Other successful case studies in Maryland include the Multicultural Welcome Centers in Baltimore City Public Schools which provide resources and support for immigrant families, as well as the Language Access Program in Prince George’s County Public Schools which provides interpretation services for non-English speaking families.

Overall, these initiatives have led to improved academic performance and well-being of immigrant students in Maryland schools. They serve as examples of effective strategies that can be replicated in other school districts to address bullying among immigrant students.

20. How has Maryland promoted a welcoming and inclusive environment for immigrant students, despite recent political changes and rhetoric at national level?


Maryland has implemented several initiatives to promote a welcoming and inclusive environment for immigrant students, despite the political changes and rhetoric at the national level. These initiatives include:

1. Providing in-state tuition for undocumented students: In 2012, Maryland passed a law allowing undocumented students to pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities, making higher education more accessible and affordable for them.

2. Creating policies to protect immigrant students: The Maryland State Department of Education issued guidance to school districts in 2017 on how to protect the rights of undocumented students and their families, including prohibiting schools from sharing immigration status information with federal authorities.

3. Supporting English Language Learners (ELL): The state has dedicated resources to support ELL students in their education, such as providing materials in multiple languages and offering ESL classes.

4. Expanding access to healthcare: Maryland has expanded access to healthcare for immigrant families, including prenatal care for pregnant women regardless of immigration status.

5. Promoting cultural diversity and understanding: Schools in Maryland are encouraged to promote cultural diversity and understanding through initiatives such as multicultural fairs or cultural competency training for teachers.

6. Collaborating with community organizations: The state has also partnered with community organizations that provide support services for immigrant families, such as legal aid, mental health services, and English language classes.

7. Condemning discrimination: State leaders have publicly condemned discriminatory actions against immigrants and reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the rights of all individuals residing in Maryland.

Overall, these efforts demonstrate Maryland’s commitment to creating an inclusive environment where all students can thrive regardless of their background or immigration status.