EDUCATION--Students to Address Bullying
The new Provincial Student Education Council (PSEC) will help government with its plan to address bullying in public schools. Today, June 8, Education Minister Jane Purves met for the first time with the newly formed group. Ms. Purves asked members to research the issue and report back in the fall with recommendations.
"We need to hear from those closest to this issue," said Ms. Purves. "The department is reviewing ways to more effectively address bullying in our schools, one of which involves resources, support and intervention to help everyone -- students and adults -- break the silence around bullying."
The council will focus on breaking the silence around bullying. It has become clear in recent months that students are fearful of reporting incidents of bullying. PSEC will define the issue as they see it, including their perceptions and experiences of bullying, and will identify steps the Department of Education, the school system and the council can take to help students talk about bullying.
"Bullying affects all of us," said Kelsey Tonner, president of the Provincial Student Education Council.
"Whether you've seen someone bullied, or been a victim yourself, we all have a role to play in ending this form of violence," he said. "We believe we can play an important role in raising awareness and finding solutions to this issue."
Ms. Purves and members of the council were at the Halifax Shopping Centre youth drop-in centre today viewing the Art Against Youth Violence exhibit. The exhibit features the artwork of junior high and high school students and came about after the suicide of a St. Agnes School student in April.
A new code of conduct is being implemented in schools this year and safe school pilot projects are also being planned. The pilots will include a component on bullying.
Ms. Purves announced the new Provincial Student Education Council in January. The council gives high school students a forum for sharing concerns and ideas for public education directly with government.