Cyberbullying: Problem for Schools

Cyberbullying is the 21st century form of harassment which is unfortunately prevalent in schools across the country. Cyberbullying can best be defined as the intended infliction of emotional harm through intimidation, harassment or threats through technology. Kids will use email, cell phones, instant messenger, facebook and others.
I have never experienced cyberbullying and thankfully do not know of anyone who has. It is really unfortunate to hear stories of the extent which cyberbullying can go. Kids killing themselves because of the nastiness and emotional harm that comes from it is truly horrible. I remember when I was a kid and kids could be mean and very hurtful. Sometimes they don't think about the consequences of their actions and bad things happen.
It is difficult for schools to deal with cyberbullying because it is usually perpetrated off-campus and at the homes of the students. Schools don't have the legal ability to go after students for actions outside of school as shown through numerous losses in lawsuits. Students have free speech rights and it is hard for schools to discipline students when it pertains to speech. Schools shouldn't go after students for off-campus issues, but should educate students at school about the issue of cyberbullying. Teachers and parents should work together to deal with any issue that comes up. Teachers can tell if kids are victims of cyberbullying if they have a sudden change in demeanor or have emotional outbursts about it.
As a teacher I will educate my kids students in the classroom about cyberbullying and go through examples of what constitutes cyberbullying. I will tell them the legal consequences of it and tell them to talk to me and their parents if they believe they are victims of it. It would be great if every school had a school-wide assembly about cyberbullying which would be the best solution. It is important to let students know it will not be tolerated and there are consequences for it.