School Board Advances Anti-Bullying Policy

Closing a gap in the district’s anti-bullying policy, the passed a measure Tuesday that will help protect students against dating violence.

That’s in line with the district’s , domestic violence and stalking among teens and adolescents.

The school district adopted a few years back.

Christine Gordillo, the district’s spokeswoman, said the update was to keep the district in line with the Ohio Revised Code.

But, now, the schools have the some financial help to back up the initiative thanks to a half-million dollar grant awarded by the US Department of Justice.

The district is one of 10 districts in the nation selected to participate in program.

The grant, for $511,832 over three years, is part of the Justice Department’s Office on Violence Against Women’s Supporting Teens through Education and Protection Program, or STEP.

The schools won’t be working alone.

Partnered with the Lakewood Police Department, Cleveland Rape Crisis Center and the Domestic Violence & Child Advocacy Center, the schools will develop and implement “Ranger 360,” a plan that will increase middle school and high school student safety, according to a statement.

Educators in are hoping to curb bullying before it begins. That includes cyber-bullying, texting and old-fashioned name-calling.

A few years ago, began a rigorous anti-bullying program to curb the trend before students get to the high school.

Last year school year, followed suit.