I am thankful. As I sit down to compose this article, it's Cyber Monday. Our family returned yesterday evening from a delightful weekend trip to Dallas, where we people-watched and purposely did no shopping.
I am thankful. As I sit down to compose this article, it's Cyber Monday. Our family returned yesterday evening from a delightful weekend trip to Dallas, where we people-watched and purposely did no shopping. We had a lighthearted time with lots of laughter all around.
Although it’s unfortunate to have to think of pesky legal issues during this season of joy and extra days off, think we must. Lately, numerous incidents of sexual harassment in the workplace have been reported in the media. As this issue unfolds and more people come forward, we’re likely in a place where addressing harassment (sexual or otherwise) will be a top priority for some time to come.
As you know, schools aren’t immune. Now is a great time for school leaders to evaluate their harassment policies and procedures applicable to both employees and students. Ask targeted questions about your policies when reviewing them. Are they in keeping with the current social and legal climate? Are there logical procedures in place for reports to be easily made? Does the post-report process demonstrate the district's thoughtful, sincere and timely investigation and possible action?
Finally, consider opportunities to better educate students and staff about harassment. Get out ahead of this before it comes to you in the form of an incident. If you can prevent even one person from being a victim, it will have been time well spent. Please
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We all wish we had more opportunities for it. Whether you're facing time constraints or distance, OPSRC wants to help! Every year in August, we get many requests to travel to individual sites for professional development, and we want to continue meeting all your needs.
Teachers: do you incorporate lessons in your classrooms that educate your students on the issue of bullying?Administrators: are you sharing bullying resources with your parents and community?
Chances are, you've had reporters contact you about something that happened in your district for which they would like further information. But were you prepared?
You've done it: you've made it to the second half of the school year! When you think back on all your district's events and causes for celebration thus far, ask yourself: do you consistently inform your stakeholders about the great things going on in your schools, or is all the positive news kept within the school building's walls? If the latter, now might be a good time to re-evaluate your district's communication strategy.
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