When we talk and write about safety in schools, the situation is both serious and deeply concerning. The reasons are numerous and complex. It seems, however, that one of the most harmful influences on young people comes from the negative examples they encounter on online platforms, social media, video games, and other forms of media that are not supervised to the extent they should be. This global challenge is made even greater by the fact that many parents simply do not have enough time to devote to their children, making it more difficult to reduce the impact of these negative influences. Finally, the rise in violence is also a consequence of the education system’s inability—or insufficient willingness—to respond to emerging problems proactively and fundamentally.
Our approach to preventing violence is systematic, comprehensive, and based on prevention rather than reaction. At Mihajlo Pupin Private Primary School, we are committed to creating a safe and supportive environment through the following measures:
- The work of our teachers and professional support staff will be properly recognized and valued, motivating them to implement preventive measures with dedication and commitment.
- Our school will have a psychologist, a pedagogue, and a special education specialist, ensuring that every child has regular opportunities for conversation and support—not only those who are already experiencing visible academic or behavioral difficulties.
- We will foster continuous and constructive cooperation between homeroom teachers and the school’s psychological and educational support team.
- All teachers and professional staff will participate in ongoing professional development and additional training in child psychology.
- Our professional associate, Milica Stojiljković, will focus exclusively on parent education and counseling, strengthening the partnership between families and the school.
- Every teacher and member of the professional staff—especially homeroom teachers—will get to know each student from the very beginning and carefully monitor even the smallest changes in their behavior and well-being. They will be trained to distinguish ordinary peer disagreements from the early signs of bullying and, most importantly, will have the confidence and responsibility to recognize and address violence for what it is.
- Teaching younger students (Grades 1–4) and older students (Grades 5–8) in separate facilities will significantly reduce opportunities for peer violence, which is often more common in schools where all age groups share the same daily schedule and campus.
- Mobile phones will not be permitted during the school day, and access to social media platforms will be restricted. We will carefully supervise the digital and visual content children are exposed to.
- From the very beginning, students will learn how information and communication technologies can be used responsibly, safely, and as valuable tools for learning and personal growth.
- Our entire curriculum, together with all extracurricular activities, will be designed to make learning engaging and enjoyable. By helping children develop a genuine love of learning and a strong system of values, we believe they will naturally move away from behaviors that lead to conflict and violence.
- Extracurricular activities such as drama, etiquette, and time management will play an essential role in students’ social and emotional development. Five drama classes each week will provide children with a safe environment in which they can express, explore, and process difficult emotions, personal struggles, and everyday conflicts, allowing them to release tension in a healthy and constructive way.
- By nurturing our cultural heritage and promoting strong moral values through inspiring examples from Serbian history, culture, and science, we help guide our students toward positive role models and away from potential sources of violence.
Mistakes are easiest to prevent at the very beginning—and much harder to correct later. That is why our focus will always be on prevention. We are committed to changing the system, shifting the focus, and acting with courage and responsibility. We will lead with kindness, respect, and joy, while remaining consistent in the expectations we set for our students—and even more demanding of ourselves as educators.
Our school will be a true community of learning, where children, parents, and educators grow together.
Together, we will celebrate knowledge, respect, and a strong sense of community.