Anti-Bully Final Draft Goes to School Councils

The state mandated anti-bullying intervention and prevention plan for the schools has been finalized, according to Superintendent Bella T. Wong who said it will be made public Nov. 1 when it goes to the school councils.

The legislation, prompted by the suicide of a 15-year-old South Hadley high school student in January, was put into law last spring. Among other things, it requires that all school employees, not just teachers but secretaries, custodians, bus and van drivers report any instances of bullying they see.

The law also requires an "investigatory response" to each incident by administration, which begins with principals.

Wong said Wellesley's plan relies heavily on the template provided by the state.

"We will definitely do community outreach on this," she said.

The entire plan will be posted on the school department website once it goes to the school councils for discussion. Input from parents and the public is welcome before it is presented to School Committee for a final vote scheduled for Nov. 16.

Starting next year, the anti-bullying plan will be included in all school handbooks and anti-bullying curriculum will be included in all grades.