Parents raise bullying concerns; district provides reporting options and contact information

A resident told the Jennings County School Corporation board she represents parents concerned about bullying in fifth grade at North Vernon Elementary and asked what the district is doing to address those concerns.

“I have several parents who have specifically mentioned bullying in fifth grade at North London Vernon Elementary,” said Marcia Boardman, who identified herself and gave an address during public comment. Boardman asked how the district investigates and what happens to students alleged to be bullies, saying parents were not satisfied with prior responses.

A district official responded that the corporation “is committed to making sure that we have a safe and supportive learning environment for all kids” and urged people with actionable information — names, specific incidents, or evidence — to report it so the district can investigate. The official outlined multiple reporting channels available to parents and students: contacting principals or central office administrators directly, using ParentSquare to message staff, or filing an anonymous report through the district website. The official also said the district maintains a reporting site that allows anonymous submissions and that business cards with direct contact information were left at the meeting for attendees.

The official provided the central office phone number for follow-up: (812) 346-4483, and said the district will investigate reports but cannot share details of active investigations when they involve children. “When investigations are going on, especially when involving children, we can’t share that conversation,” the official said.

Why it matters: public commenters told the board they were dissatisfied with prior responses from school administrators; the district reiterated its investigative process and offered multiple reporting paths and contact information so officials can act on specific, actionable information.

Next steps: the district encouraged parents to collect as much detail as possible (names, dates, descriptions, screenshots where applicable) and submit reports through the listed channels. Board members did not take formal action during the public comment segment; the meeting continued into old business after the discussion.

Ending: Board staff offered to follow up with individuals after the meeting and requested that the public post the provided contact information in the Facebook group raising concerns.