OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS
ARCHDIOCESE OF NEW YORK
1011 First Avenue,
New York, New York 10022
Phone: (212) 371-1000 Fax: (212) 317-9236
Dear Parents,
I would like to share with you an enhancement to one of our Archdiocesan programs for the 2013-14 school year - a bullying prevention program. I trust you will agree the safety and well-being of our students is important and requires the assurance that your child feels safe, respected and valued, and that our schools are great places for students to learn.
"Working Together to Prevent Bullying" is a ten lesson, kindergarten through eighth grade, bullying prevention program. It was piloted in all schools at various points during the 2012-2013 school term and this year we will engage in the full roll-out of the program.
The overall goal of this initiative is to create safe school environments and improve relationships among students. The curriculum ensures that all students receive the same message about bullying and they understand that everyone, adults and children alike, must work together to prevent bullying.
This curriculum, which is based on one that originated in Canada as part of a public health initiative, was chosen because it reflects the goals of Catholic education. It emphasizes the development of virtues such as fairness, compassion, tolerance and respect while also teaching students skills needed to communicate effectively and resolve conflict in acceptable ways.
The lessons help teachers set a tone in the classroom that supports a culture of tolerance and caring, and gives them an opportunity to teach students concrete ways to help themselves and each other.
We believe that having a safe school experience is something that all students deserve . Through the implementation of the "Working Together to Prevent Bullying", we are taking a proactive step towards addressing the issue of bullying and ensuring a positive learning environment for all students.
If you have any questions about this program, please contact your principal.
Sincerely,
Timothy J. McNiff
Superintendent of Schools
