Great Happenings

Volume 2

We are all aware of the recent stories of bullying that have dominated local and national news. It seems almost impossible to pick up a paper or turn on a television without hearing something about this serious topic. The emotional nature of these stories elicit very powerful feelings in our communities and often overshadow the wonderful things that are taking place in our high schools. The students, teachers, parents, and principals of Suffolk County remain committed to ensuring is safe, supportive scholastic environment for every child in our charge. To this end, the various high schools communities are endeavoring programs aimed at fostering tolerance and understanding within our learning families. The story below chronicles efforts, which are typical of the collective mission in our Suffolk County High Schools.

On Monday, February 27, Shoreham-Wading River High School hosted its first annual “Stomp Out Bullying Day.” The program, based largely on the “See Something, Say Something Campaign” consisted of a presentation on Cyber-Bulling by the School Resource Officer for all 9th and 10th grade students, followed by the theatre group Stories of Substance for the 11th and 12th grade students.

The culminating activity featured a dynamic presentation from Alisty Joy Keneth from AJK Diversified. Ms. Keneth, who is an expert in the field of teenage bullying, worked with 25 students in grades 9-11 on the creation of an “Action Plan.” The goal of the action plan was to reduce bullying behavior between students and create a culture of respect between all groups regardless of their differences. The plan will be implemented by the students, through established organizations, as well as their day to day interactions with various peer groups. The students will then be painting a mural in the school with the “Stomp out Bullying” mantra and starting a Facebook page that promotes greater tolerance. Finally, an anti-bullying banner will be displayed in the commons area and everyone will have the opportunity to sign a common tolerance pledge.

The members of the Suffolk County High School Principals Association remain very excited about the possibilities that events like this will have for our school climates.

Happenings Archive