Greendale Schools Climate and Culture Task Force Continues Work; Online Reporting System Implemented
November 30, 2012
The Greendale Schools Climate and Culture Task Force held a third meeting on November 28 as it continues its work to address harassment in the schools and community.
The Task Force reiterated its primary mission: to propose solutions to problematic behavior, as well as propose implementation strategies to address the behavior. Task Force members also began to identify gaps in existing services and protocols and explored possible solutions.
“The Task Force is committed to communicating its findings to students, parents, staff and the community. We recognize this is a serious issue,” said Superintendent John Tharp. “In coming weeks, the Task Force will continue to work on these issues and craft recommendations for ensuring all students in the Greendale Schools are provided with a safe and welcoming environment to learn.”
According to student members of the Task Force and recent student survey results, it appears that instances of bullying and harassment generally occur in places where there is little or no adult supervision with the highest volume occurring on social media. Students also reported that negative behaviors often involve “mean-spirited gossip” or the exclusion of others. Recent student survey results also indicated that not all students are comfortable reporting negative behavior to adults.
On November 27, the high school and middle school implemented a new online reporting system for parents, community, and students. The Safer Schools online reporting form is available from the GHS and GMS websites and can be used by students, parents, and community members to report bullying, harassment, or illegal activity to school administration. Those submitting the form can choose to provide their name or remain anonymous.
For more information on the Task Force, including a list of members, please visit: http://bit.ly/Task-Force. You may also contact Superintendent John Tharp at (414) 423-2700 or email at john.tharp@greendale.k12.wi.us for more information.
The Task Force reiterated its primary mission: to propose solutions to problematic behavior, as well as propose implementation strategies to address the behavior. Task Force members also began to identify gaps in existing services and protocols and explored possible solutions.
“The Task Force is committed to communicating its findings to students, parents, staff and the community. We recognize this is a serious issue,” said Superintendent John Tharp. “In coming weeks, the Task Force will continue to work on these issues and craft recommendations for ensuring all students in the Greendale Schools are provided with a safe and welcoming environment to learn.”
According to student members of the Task Force and recent student survey results, it appears that instances of bullying and harassment generally occur in places where there is little or no adult supervision with the highest volume occurring on social media. Students also reported that negative behaviors often involve “mean-spirited gossip” or the exclusion of others. Recent student survey results also indicated that not all students are comfortable reporting negative behavior to adults.
On November 27, the high school and middle school implemented a new online reporting system for parents, community, and students. The Safer Schools online reporting form is available from the GHS and GMS websites and can be used by students, parents, and community members to report bullying, harassment, or illegal activity to school administration. Those submitting the form can choose to provide their name or remain anonymous.
For more information on the Task Force, including a list of members, please visit: http://bit.ly/Task-Force. You may also contact Superintendent John Tharp at (414) 423-2700 or email at john.tharp@greendale.k12.wi.us for more information.