Minister to Discuss Bullying, Drug Use in Schools

The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Education, will discuss issues around bullying and drug use in schools this evening (Friday, April 20) at the Annual General Meeting of the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of School Councils (NLFSC). The event begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Capital Hotel in St. John’s.

The theme for this year’s meeting, which runs through to April 22, is Better Together – Meeting the Challenges with several professional development sessions focusing on how to address bullying and drug use in schools.

“The Provincial Government takes bullying and drug use in our schools very seriously,” said Minister Jackman. “It is important to talk about these issues, get them out in the open, and work together with our young people – as school communities and as a society – to tackle these concerns. The Provincial Government has invested in resources at the school and school district level through our Safe and Caring Schools initiative to help address these issues. We realize, however, that we cannot do it alone. We are therefore encouraged that groups like the Federation of School Councils are committed to helping us make all schools safe and positive learning environments for everyone.”

NLFSC President Betty Gilley said school councils, parents and school communities have a critical role to play in the problem-solving process.

“We are committed to working with Minister Jackman to address bullying and drug use in our schools,” said Ms. Gilley. “Our schools are communities, and it will take all of us to deliver a common and effective message about the long-lasting psychological and physical effects of bullying and drug use. Therefore, more than ever, it is important for school councils, the minister, and all our educational stakeholders to work together as a team.”

The Provincial Government’s Safe and Caring Schools policy was introduced in 2006 in response to a growing concern about students’ safety and well-being in schools. Over the years, the initiative has been proactive in developing programs and resources aimed at early intervention and education on violence prevention. An independent review and evaluation of the policy is almost complete. The completed review, expected later this spring, will help inform an action plan currently being developed to strengthen and support schools in their efforts to eradicate all forms of bullying and harassment.

For more information on Safe and Caring Schools, visit: www.ed.gov.nl.ca/edu/k12/safeandcaring/index.html. 

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2012 04 20                                 12:15 p.m.