Online Bullying Reporting System Live For Greendale Schools

Bullying, harassment, or illegal activity in the Greendale School District can now be reported through a new online reporting system.

This comes from work being done by the new Greendale Task Force, whose mission is to propose solutions to problematic behavior, as well as propose implementation strategies to address the behavior.

The task force was formed after a 17-year-old male high school student wrote a fake bomb threat in a bathroom because he told police he wanted to disrupt the homecoming activities. Police reports indicated the teen experienced prolonged bullying by his peers, including nominating him for homecoming court as a prank.

The task force has held three meetings and continues to help identify gaps in existing services and protocols and explored possible solutions.

“The task force is committed to communicating its findings to students, parents, staff and the community. We recognize this is a serious issue,” said Superintendent John Tharp in a release. “In coming weeks, the task force will continue to work on these issues and craft recommendations for ensuring all students in the Greendale schools are provided with a safe and welcoming environment to learn.”

According to student members of the task force and recent student survey results, instances of bullying and harassment generally occur in places where there is little or no adult supervision with the highest volume occurring on social media. Students also reported negative behaviors often involve “mean-spirited gossip” or the exclusion of others. Recent student survey results also indicated that not all students are comfortable reporting negative behavior to adults. Click here for survey results.

The Safer Schools on-line reporting form is available from the Greendale High School and Greendale Middle School websites and can be used by students, parents, and community members to report bullying, harassment, or illegal activity to school administration. Those submitting the form can choose to provide their name or remain anonymous.

The task force includes a diverse mix of about 25 parents, students, teachers, community members and staff. Susan Castro and Alison Julien, parents of students in Greendale schools, serve as co-chairs of the task force. Nancy Athanasiou, Associate Dean of Undergraduate Programs in the School of Education and Associate Professor at Alverno College, is facilitating the work team.

For more information on the task force, including a list of members, visit: http://bit.ly/Task-Force. You may also contact Tharp at (414) 423-2700 or john.tharp@greendale.k12.wi.us for more information.