Simply put: bullying has a negative effect on the school climate. Students who are intimidated and fearful cannot give their education the single-minded attention they need for success. Bullying and intimidation for any reason are prohibited in the Newton Public Schools. Creating a school culture free of bullying demands that all individuals recognize such behaviors and take action to stop them. Their prevention begins with a strong educational program; the establishment of a positive, caring school environment; and a solid school-home partnership. We are ALL part of the safety net. Every student, parent, and staff member has the potential and the responsibility to affect the school culture positively so that all students can thrive.
Massachusetts Anti-Bullying Law and the Newton Public Schools
Massachusetts passed a comprehensive anti-bullying law in May, 2010, which mandates every school system to implement a Bullying Prevention and Intervention plan. The law was updated in 2014 by Governor Patrick, extending protection to students who are bullied by a member of the school staff, who are defined to include but are not limited to an "educator, administrator, school nurse, cafeteria worker, custodian, bus driver, athletic coach, advisor to an extracurricular activity or paraprofessional."
The Newton School Committee first approved our policies and procedures addressing bullying prevention and intervention during the 2010-2011 school year, and has updated these regularly since then. The goal of this website, created for the benefit of the entire Newton community, is to serve as an introduction and guide to policies the Newton Public Schools has in place, as well as to raise awareness of bullying, bullying prevention, and related topics. Please explore not only this section dedicated to Staff, but also the Parent and Student sections as well.
NPS staff and faculty have always been aware of the important role that social and emotional well-being play in student learning, and are therefore required to report bullying incidents. We hope you find this website helpful and welcome your feedback on how to improve it.