Evidence-Based Bullying Prevention Programs

Evidence-Based Bullying Prevention Programs

There are several different evidence-based bullying prevention programs that applicants may choose from to best serve the needs at their school(s). When completing the grant request, applicants should clearly indicate which program they are selecting.

In an effort to provide unbiased, objective recommendations for evidence-based bullying prevention programs to be used as part of the Bullying Prevention and Education Grant (BPEG), the Office of Learning Supports (OLS) at the Colorado Department of Education commissioned an external review of programs. The review (PDF) was completed by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. It should only be considered as guidance for the BPEG and not as guidance for selecting an evidence-based bullying prevention program for other purposes. For more information on the selection process of programs, please see the Purpose Statement of review. 

Applicants are encouraged to select any program that they believe would best fit their school regardless of whether or not it is one of the programs recommended by the OLS. However, if a program outside of the recommended list is selected, applicants must describe the evidence supporting the efficacy and effectiveness of the program in their application.  

The programs below were the most commonly used by BPEG grantees during the 2019-2022 grant cycle.

Bullying Prevention - PBIS (BP-PBIS)

Description: You can find an in-depth description of the BP-PBIS program, including training requirements, here. BP-PBIS program is an evidence-based bullying prevention program that is designed to be implemented as part of a school’s universal behavior management system. There are two versions of the program. One program is designed for students in elementary school (PDF) and the other is designed for students in middle and high school (PDF). 

Second Step (SS-SEL) and the Bullying Prevention Unit (SS-BPU)

Description: You can find an in-depth description of the SS-SEL and SS-BPU program, including training requirements, here. The SS-BPU program is a supplemental program to the SS-SEL program. These programs are research-based and the bullying prevention program is developmentally appropriate for Kindergarten through 5th grade students. The program includes video stories co-written by children’s book author Trudy Ludwig and materials for families to reinforce the lessons taught in the classroom. There is also an online version of the Second Step program for middle school students. For more information, please visit the Second Step website and the BPU webpage.

Olweus Bullying Prevention Program (OBPP)

Description: You can find an in-depth description of the OBPP program, including training requirements, here. The OBPP is a prevention and education program developed by Dr. Dan Olweus, a leading international bullying prevention expert. The program is appropriate for students in elementary through high school. 

Facing History and Ourselves

Description: You can find more information on the Facing History and Ourselves program on their website. The program can be customized to a school or district and focuses on reducing bullying through school curricula. Ongoing coaching and professional development is also available. The program is primarily geared towards secondary students.

An in-depth review of each of these programs can be found in one document here (PDF).