Bullying in Manteca Parks and Recreation programs may soon be against official city policy.

The City Council on Tuesday is being asked to acknowledge the issues of bullying and make a commitment to end bullying and harassment a municipal policy. The council meets at 7 p.m. at the Civic Center, 1001 W. Center St.

The city was asked to adopt the policy by the Manteca Unified School District board. The policy - as forwarded to the council by the Manteca Parks and Recreation Commission - notes:

•Every child participating in parks and recreation programs needs to feel safe and should be treated with understanding, dignity, and respect.

•International studies indicate bullying is common and affects as much as 54 percent of children.

•Bullying has triggered several suicides and increased suicide attempts among America’s youth including children as young as 11.

•Bystanders who often remain silent play a key role in determining whether bullying will occur and escalate or be prevented.

•Adults must work to ensure inclusive and safe settings for children and that adults in their own interactions must model the same behavior they expected from children.

The commitment to end bullying also includes cyber bullying and harassment in all Manteca Parks and Recreation programs and City of Manteca services.