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Parents and residents urge action on bullying, drugs and bus-camera access at Shelton meeting
Summary
Three members of the public told the board they are concerned about in-school bullying, drug use and vaping, and difficulties obtaining school-bus camera footage after an alleged assault; they urged stronger communication and consequences.
Three community members used the public comment period to press the Shelton School Board for stronger responses to student safety issues, saying communication with families is insufficient when incidents occur.
William Sullivan, who identified himself as a parent and business owner, said his child at Bordeaux Elementary experienced an incident he believes originated at school and that he has not received adequate follow-up from school officials. Sullivan said his daughter was also assaulted on a school bus and that he was unable to obtain camera footage from the bus contractor. “I would like to know who you contacted, who you checked in with to check on my concerns with the school,” Sullivan said, and asked for an email response with dates and contacts.
Jessica Brissett, a parent, asked the board to “crack down on the bullying that is happening within our school.” She cited that one in five students face bullying and tied bullying to increased risks of anxiety, depression and suicide. Brissett said parents are frequently not notified when incidents occur and called for clearer communication from schools to families.
Resident Marilyn Aron raised concerns about drug dealing, frequent vaping, and fights at Shelton High School, saying students routinely loiter by specific restrooms and that she has seen high school students attempt to sell vapes and marijuana to middle school students on buses. Aron urged stronger disciplinary consequences, more supervision in problem areas such as bathrooms and buses, and partnerships with law enforcement and health professionals.
Board members acknowledged the comments and noted the importance of specific incident details for follow-up. Director Becky (on Zoom) asked speakers to send specific information by email to allow staff to investigate; she stressed that general statements are difficult to act on without names, dates or locations.
These comments were made during the public-comment portion of the meeting; no formal board action was taken while the members were speaking.
