TAKE STOCK OF NEEDS, PRIORITIES & OPTIONS
The work of the exploratory team culminates in a thoughtful review and discussion of the results of its fact-finding and information-sharing activities.

In many cases, the survey results and other findings will point to the need for specific changes in policy and practice, for exploring options such as investing in a curriculum-based bullying awareness and education program and/or for focusing on outreach, communication and partnership building.

The process of sorting through these options will be considerably more productive if it is informed by the growing knowledge base on bullying prevention, and involves the use of scanning, assessment and benchmarking tools such as the following:

Community Readiness Model
An innovative method developed by Colorado State University researchers for (1) assessing how ready a community is with respect to accepting a given issue as something that needs doing and (2) identifying the types of efforts that are appropriate to initiate, given the level of readiness.

SWOT Analysis
A simple framework for identifying options and focusing decisionmaking based on an analysis of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats — SWOT. Particularly useful when a limited amount of time is available to address a complex strategic situation.

Sustainability Assessment Tool [Template]
Best practice-based tool for initial/ongoing assessment of needs, capacity, alignment of policies and practices, and progress toward goals. Developed for use by schools, districts and community organizations participating in The Colorado Trust’s Bullying Prevention Initiative (BPI).

Tips for Selecting the “Right” Program Model
A brief list of things to keep in mind when reviewing and choosing a school- or community-based prevention/intervention program.