The story “Parents ask for stand on bullying” on page 1 of The Cornwall Local included quotes from School Board President Charlie Frankel and Superintendent of Schools Neal Miller. Their full statements are included below.
Charlie Frankel: Recently, there was a story ran by Hudson Valley News 12 concerning a student who claimed to have been bullied at a school within the Cornwall District. Due to privacy laws, we cannot comment on this specific case. However, we can advise that reports of bullying are taken very seriously by the District. Upon receipt of notice of such an incident, the appropriate personnel are notified, and an investigation is immediately undertaken. If it is determined that inappropriate conduct has occurred, proper steps are taken to address those responsible. We encourage any student or parent who has a concern about such an incident, or has information concerning an incident, to contact the building principal or the Superintendent. The District has programs to teach our students responsible behavior, good character and ethics in every building, as well as student initiatives to encourage a healthy supportive environment in each of our schools. Fortunately, these incidents are rare, and our teachers, assistants, aides, support staff, administrators and the Board of Education are all aware of the need to support each and every student in achieving their dreams and aspirations.”
Neal Miller: “Our schools have always been required by law to act on any type of bullying, harassment and discrimination, and with the new DASA legislation, we have stepped-up our vigilance, knowledge and skill in dealing with this type of student behavior. In each of our buildings our staffs are trained and re-trained at the beginning of each school year by our building DASA coordinators. Throughout the year we engage our students and our teachers in various activities that promote respect for others.
Students have the right to come to school and be free from harassment and bullying, and we take that right very seriously. We work conscientiously and effectively with students and parents to both prevent and resolve this type of behavior. In addition, we share information with parents throughout the school year at open houses, newsletters, etc., to promote character education with our families.”
