Taking a proactive approach to curtailing bullying incidents in Voorhees’ K-8 school district, Harassment, Bullying and Intimidation reports reviewed at the Board of Education’s Aug. 28 meeting revealed a significant drop in cases from the same period just a year ago.
District Anti-Bullying Coordinator Irene Afek reported that, for all five schools, only 12 cases were reported for the January 2013 — June 2013 period. Of those 12 cases, only six were found to be HIB incidents.
Afek explained that the current report shows a significant drop in total reported cases from the same period last year, with a total of 23 cases reported, a 47 percent decrease from January 2012 — June 2012 period. Afek explains that it is important to compare reports of similar periods as opposed to just looking at the previous period.
“The periods are important because the behaviors are different at different points in the school year,” Afek said.
Under a new state law put in place two years ago, all school districts must submit the HIB report to the state twice a year, as well as sharing the report with the board.
“I think the most significant drop contributes to the interventions that we have put in place in the school system,” Afek said. “I think everybody is much more informed.”
She explains that events and presentations, such as those delivered by child-author and speaker Trudy Ludwig, were so successful in keeping both parents and students informed that the school district has already invited Ludwig back for another series of presentations on Sept. 24.
“She’s like the Jay Leno of HIB,” Afek said. “She really is a one-woman show.”
Ludwig is the author of children’s books such as “My Secret Bully” and “Just Kidding.” She has also been featured
on ABC’s Good Morning America and PBS’ “Keeping Kids Healthy.”
During school time on Sept. 24, Ludwig will work to make her rounds to the elementary schools talking about bullying and friendship issues.
She will also host an adults-only presentation regarding issues students face both online and offline on Sept. 24 at 6:30 p.m. in the Voorhees Middle School. All parents are welcomed to attend as are adult members of the community.
