Students Present Bullying Report

Students presented a report on bullying issues in Nova Scotia schools to Education Minister Jane Purves today, Dec. 7. The report contains a number of recommendations on how government and students can help stop bullying.

In June, Ms. Purves asked members of the Provincial Student Education Council to research the issue of bullying in schools and provide recommendations. The findings in the report are taken from a series of meetings held in October, that resulted in various ideas and opinions on bullying from 125 students across the province.

Ms. Purves thanked the council for the report and said it will help government with its plans to deal with the issue.

"Students are telling us first-hand that bullying is affecting their education and they have asked us to help in very specific ways," said Ms. Purves. "We'll be giving serious consideration to their recommendations. Their insights will be very helpful as we continue to make schools safer places to learn."

A new code of conduct is being implemented in schools this year and the first of four pilot projects to address behavioral issues was announced in October.

"We are confident that these recommendations, if implemented, will help alleviate bullying in Nova Scotia schools," said council president Kelsey Tonner. "The council looks forward to continuing to work on this important issue with Minister Purves."

The report also contains testimonials from council members on their experiences with bullying. The experiences include those of victims, perpetrators and bystanders.

"Students recognize that government can't do this alone," said Ms. Purves. "Students, teachers and parents all have roles to play to break the silence around bullying."

Ms. Purves announced the creation of the 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.