Researchers at the University of Kansas will work with the state’s schools to prevent bullying.

The Kansas Department of Education awarded a contract to the researchers, who will develop a website and hold training sessions at schools across the state. The researchers also will create a model policy on bullying that schools can change to fit their specific circumstances.

The state’s schools are in different stages of implementing a policy against bullying. The state passed a law requiring the policy in 2007 but some districts have faced obstacles, partly because intervention projects can be expensive.

Lead researcher Anne Williford says the starting point is defining what constitutes bullying. She says social scientists do not believe every act of aggression or anger is bullying.

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Associated Press information from: Lawrence Journal-World