Barnaget School District reports successful bullying prevention self-assessment and student safety commendations

In a recent meeting of the Barnegat Township School District Board of Education, held on October 29, 2024, key discussions centered around the district's ongoing efforts to combat harassment, intimidation, and bullying (HIB) in schools. The meeting highlighted the annual HIB self-assessment, which evaluates the effectiveness of various programs aimed at fostering a safe and supportive environment for students.

During the meeting, officials reported that all schools within the district scored well on the HIB self-assessment, with a maximum possible score of 78 points. The assessment process involves a detailed rubric that allows schools to earn points based on their activities and initiatives designed to prevent bullying. Notably, the district has implemented a principal's determination policy, which enables school leaders to prioritize investigations into serious allegations while filtering out less severe reports. This approach allows staff to focus their resources on genuine cases of bullying.

The meeting also showcased several innovative programs aimed at promoting positive behavior among students. Initiatives such as Challenge Day, where students engage in activities to foster empathy and understanding, and the therapy dog program, which provides emotional support, were highlighted as impactful measures. Additionally, the district has introduced training modules for both teachers and students to address bullying behavior and support victims.

In a separate segment, Mr. Barbieri presented data on student performance in language arts and mathematics, revealing that a majority of high school students are deemed graduation-ready. The district celebrated significant improvements in various grades, particularly in mathematics, where notable increases in proficiency were reported. However, some areas, such as grades 3, 6, and 8, showed a slight decline, prompting discussions on targeted support and professional development for teachers.

Safety was a recurring theme throughout the meeting, with board members emphasizing its importance in the educational environment. A recent lockdown incident at Collins School was acknowledged, with parents praising the staff's handling of the situation. However, concerns were raised regarding communication during emergencies, highlighting the need for clearer and more timely updates to parents.

As the meeting concluded, the board reiterated its commitment to providing a safe and nurturing educational experience for all students, while also recognizing the importance of continuous improvement in communication and support systems. The district looks forward to further discussions and updates in the coming months, as it strives to enhance the educational landscape for its community.