Here's How Many Bullying Cases Were Reported In Moorestown

MOORESTOWN, NJ — The Moorestown Public School District reported a total of 19 harassment, intimidation and bullying cases this past year, according to numbers recently released by the state.

It was the 110th highest number of cases, according to state data released for 2017-18. It averaged 4.82 cases per 1,000 students, which was 317th highest out of 550 school districts in the state.

The state Department of Education has cautioned that these numbers are reported by each district, so each jurisdiction is responsible for reporting its results fairly and accurately. But they are required by law to report them. Read more here: Report Shows NJ School Districts With Most Bullying, Harassment

As part of the school district's anti-bullying policy, the district brings in school counselors, school social workers and/or school psychologists can also be called in to decipher if the bully has mental health issues.

It also gives the student a voice in developing a behavioral contract, ensuring that the student knows how they can change their behaviors, according to the policy posted on the district website.

According to Moorestown's anti-bullying policy guide posted on the district's website, consequences for students who commit an act of harassment, intimidation or bullying are based on a number of factors, including the nature of the action, the disabilities, if any, of the students involved, student's age and history of issues.

The accused bully in the incident may be subjected to a behavioral assessment or evaluation, including a referral to the Child Study Team or other referral services. A list of determining factors can be found on the district's website.

A trusted staff member meets with the victims to explore their feelings about the incident, and they develop a plan to ensure the student's emotional and physical safety at school.

They also work to make sure the victim doesn't feel responsible for bringing the bullying behavior on themselves, and helps them develop skills on how to resist being bullied. Follow-up conferences are also scheduled, and the school also works with the families of the victims.

To view the full policy, visit the school district's website.

Read more here: Moorestown Schools Help Bullies, Victims In HIB Incidents

THE MENACE OF BULLIES: PATCH ADVOCACY REPORTING PROJECT

As part of a national reporting project, Patch has been looking at society's roles and responsibilities in bullying.

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