Anti-Bullying Book Launch Helps Mark Violence Awareness Week

To mark the beginning of Violence Awareness Week in schools, the Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Education, joined representatives of Easter Seals Newfoundland and Labrador today (Monday, February 25) for the launch of an anti-bullying book entitled “Stopping Bullying Is As Easy As ABC”.

“As we near the end of our province-wide consultations on bullying behaviours among students, and discuss how we can address it as parents, educators, and a society, I am encouraged by the response of individuals and organizations who want to be part of the solution,” Minister Jackman said during the launch, which was held at St. Teresa’s School in St. John’s. “I commend Easter Seals Newfoundland and Labrador and their partners for being part of the solution; for increasing public awareness, and for reaching out to young people through this publication.”

Minister Jackman noted the theme for Violence Awareness Week is Find Your Voice, Not Violence, and schools throughout Newfoundland and Labrador are holding activities which encourage students, and entire school communities, to speak out against all forms of violence and harassment.
“Violence Awareness Week empowers our children and youth by giving them an opportunity to lead in the eradication of violence in schools,” said the Honourable Charlene Johnson, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women and lead Minister for the Violence Prevention Initiative. “Through our government’s Violence Prevention Initiative, we will continue to provide children and youth with the tools, resources and support needed to make school a safe and caring learning environment where violence is unacceptable to all students.”

Minister Jackman also encouraged anyone who has not yet participated in an online consultation on issues around bullying among students, and would like to do so, to visit: www.ed.gov.nl.ca/edu/consultations/index.html. 

This year, the Provincial Government allocated $260,000 to support Safe and Caring Schools programs designed to prevent violence and harassment, including $60,000 provided through the Violence Prevention Initiative.

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Photo: The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Education, joined students at St. Teresa's School today for the launch of an anti-bullying book entitled "Stopping Bullying Is As Easy As ABC", produced by Easter Seals Newfoundland and Labrador.

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2013 02 25                         2:35 p.m.