Respect! 24/7

What is Respect! 24/7?

Respect! 24/7 is an anti-bullying and civility initiative that provides professional development and resources for teachers and administrators to create safe, caring, and equitable learning environments. The initiative addresses such issues as cyberbullying, youth voice, digital citizenship, disproportionate rates of suspension and expulsion, LGBTQ and gender identity, suicide prevention, and youth mental health.

History of Respect! 24/7

San Mateo County Office of Education launched Respect! 24/7 after a San Mateo County Grand Jury report called on our school districts to update their anti-bullying policies to be more comprehensive and consistent. Every October, the County Office of Education recognizes Respect! 24/7 Month and hosts a countywide conference to help districts create positive and safe school environments. 

Why Respect! 24/7?

All students are entitled to safe, orderly, caring, and equitable learning environments that promote academic success, school connectedness, and meaningful participation.

Students who are subjected to bullying, teasing, and other threats are at risk of experiencing long-term damage to their mental health, self-esteem, and academic success. By fostering a positive school climate, a sense of belonging, and social-emotional learning, schools can decrease student absenteeism, suspensions, substance abuse, and bullying while also increasing student academic achievement, motivation to learn, and psychological well-being.

2022 Conference

As we reflect on the past years and how they have sent our communities and schools through a whirlwind of challenges and emotions, we recognize both the positive and negative effects that they have had on the future.  This year’s theme relates to how substance abuse and mental health correlate and how schools have been directly affected. Our take away is to be able to provide the necessary resources and tools for our schools and to educate on the awareness of how to approach the matter in an empathetic and supportive manner.

All educators, including teachers, counselors, and administrators, are invited to attend this virtual conference. Learn more and register below. The first hundred registrants will receive a special giveaway!