Strong Vincent students promote anti-bullying through kindness tree initiative

The Erie City School District Board of Directors meeting on March 12, 2025, highlighted significant developments in student engagement and athletics. The meeting featured discussions on anti-bullying initiatives and updates on winter sports achievements.

One of the key topics was the Strong Vincent Middle School's positive messaging campaign, which includes a monthly message created with student involvement. The school has implemented a "kindness tree," where students can tie ribbons in memory of loved ones during Grief Awareness Week, fostering a supportive community atmosphere. This initiative aims to tackle bullying from various perspectives, ensuring students feel included and valued.

In the realm of athletics, Mr. Brockman presented a report on winter sports, noting a successful season for both boys' and girls' basketball teams. The boys' team finished with a record of 10-12, while the girls' team achieved an impressive 11-8 record and won the District 10 championship for the second consecutive year. This victory allowed the school to host a PIAA state playoff game for the first time in decades, showcasing the newly renovated gymnasium.

The report also highlighted individual achievements, such as Andrea Nevins, a standout guard who signed with Clarion University, and Bridal Varsionetti, who will bowl for Mercyhurst. Additionally, the introduction of competitive cheerleading was noted as a positive development for the school’s athletic program.

The meeting concluded with discussions on the performance of other winter sports, including swimming and wrestling, where notable achievements were recognized, such as state qualifiers and the first female wrestler to win a district championship. The introduction of Unified Bocce was also celebrated, marking a new opportunity for student participation.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to fostering a supportive environment for students while celebrating athletic accomplishments and community engagement. The board looks forward to continuing these initiatives and enhancing student experiences in the coming months.