Stockbridge Valley takes bullying seriously

Superintendent Cindy Stocker addresses recent issues at school district.

This column originally appeared as an open letter on the Stockbridge Valley Central School District website. It is in relation to a student protest on bullying that took place just before the winter break. Students protested what they said was administrative inaction on bullying at the school.

As you are aware, the Stockbridge Valley district has been in the media during the last few weeks for issues related to bullying. I am, and have been, deeply concerned about these reports and the resulting climate in our school and community. I want to assure our entire community that the health and safety of our students is our highest priority. I also want to correct some of the misinformation that has been circulating.

This district has long-established policies and practices in place to address student, staff and visitor behavior in a timely and effective manner. Our board-approved Code of Conduct provides guidelines for appropriate behavior, including how to identify and address bullying and harassment. Our Code of Conduct follows guidelines laid out in the Dignity for All Students Act (DASA) state law. Students are informed about these guidelines every year, as are parents, and the policies are made publicly available through our web- site. SVCS Code of Conduct staff members also receive training every year on recognizing, preventing and reporting bullying. I would be happy to discuss these issues further with anyone who has questions, comments or concerns.

During the last few weeks, we have been working to collect more specific information on several issues raised by students. The district can only address such concerns if and when it has accurate factual information. Please know that our district has always investigated every report of bullying, harassment and misconduct that is brought to our attention. We can only take appropriate disciplinary action as prescribed in our Code of Conduct after we have determined the facts. This is not a new procedure in Stockbridge Valley, and we will continue to do everything we can to create a supportive, safe and positive school climate.

I want to reiterate that student safety is our highest priority, as is fostering a positive educational environment. This is a small school district and small community, and the negative media attention this district has received in recent weeks has been polarizing, toxic and, I believe, unwarranted. This community has always come together to support each other when needed. I encourage everyone to take pause, consider what is happening in the community, and to utilize the processes and procedures the district already has in place to address these types of issues. More importantly, I encourage everyone to support the positive efforts of the school and community.

It is the district’s intention to move forward. We are working on ways to mend our school culture and climate, and we are developing forums to address these issues. I encourage everyone to support these efforts. Every situation, whether positive or negative is an opportunity for growth. I will communicate with you directly again as additional information becomes available and is appropriate to share with the public.

“We are working on ways to mend our school culture and climate, andwe are developing forums to address these issues. I encourage everyone to support these efforts.”