What do you do when you walk into a classroom and see two students physically hitting one, and the others seemingly amused at the sight?
I have witnessed instances of bullying so many times that stepping in to stop them has become a ritual for me.
Surprisingly, not everyone would agree with what I believe. I asked another foreign teacher how he would react in such a situation, and his answer wasn’t what I expected. “Ignore and leave.” His response disgusted me. He probably had reasons, and I respect that. But how could someone tolerate cruelty? I know these are kids and they could be just goofing around. Moreover, there might not be any malevolent intent. But I also know bullying when I see it.
Another, however, said that she would let their teacher know what happened, and advise the bullied student to stay strong and endure. Suddenly, I started to have second thoughts.
Then I began to see things in a new light after I came across an article written by an experienced educator. It made me get wise to the fact that institutions have their own stance. What really spoke to me in that article is that there are ways to confront bullying, however, I don’t always have the privilege to act according to how I see fit.
Liam Carrigan said in his article “How to Deal with Bullying in Japanese Schools”: “Remember, you are not Superman, you cannot save everyone.” Those words rang true. As much as I want to prevent harm from happening to those under my watch, I am no superhero. What can a lowly foreign teacher do? Perhaps not much. But I can still do what I can. It may not move mountains but at least I won’t stop trying.
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