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The BPS Bullying Prevention Plan is Praised
Bullying has become a serious problem in schools, and many districts are taking steps to ensure that all students are provided with a safe and welcoming environment. In 2010, Boston implemented its Bullying Prevention and Intervention Plan, and since then, the district has seen a slow decline in the number of bullying incidents. "I think that early recognition and intervention at the elementary level has been a factor in the overall decrease in the middle and high school levels," said Jodie Elgee, the director of the Counseling and Intervention Center.
In February, the Boston Public Schools Counseling and Intervention Center was invited to participate in a pilot project through US Attorney Carmen Ortiz's office. "This pilot, one of three in the country, was tasked to develop a plan to deal with violence in the community," noted Jodie. BPS presented its work to the White House and also met privately with President Obama. The President said, “The work at the Counseling Center is exemplary and should be used as a national model.”
"I am proud of the work we've done with bullying prevention and intervention," said Jodie. "We have seen a changing of attitudes about bullying, and there are programs and systems in place to support all students involved in bullying." One notable program is Saturday for Success, which continues to be in demand. This program provides bullying workshops for BPS staff, who are given 10 hours of bullying intervention training. "Those trained staff members are helping to change the attitudes and tolerance for bullying in schools," added Jodie.
When Jodie was asked, "What do you love most about your work?" she stated, "I love seeing the progress and positive change that most students make when they come to the Counseling Center. They remind me of the possibility for great things to happen and provide me with hope for the future."
The district will continue its success rates by building more community collaborations, which are crucial to the work of mental health. Next year, BPS will provide more targeted services for students most in need.
If you would like to see the panel discussion that took place at the White House, go to this link.