It’s important to emphasize efforts to both prevent and address bullying in Kentucky schools.

The following comments from Kentucky Board of Education Chair David Karem were included in the board’s June “Board Notes” newsletter:

“At its June 6 meeting, the Kentucky Board of Education received a briefing on how the Kentucky Center for School Safety and the Kentucky Department of Education provide support and guidance for school districts on the issue of bullying. The board had asked for the briefing due to the increased attention that bullying is getting from the media and the number of inquiries that the board is receiving.

Associate Commissioner Susan Allred began the presentation by saying that in order to deliver on the goal of ensuring that all students are college/career ready, bullying cannot continue. The board wholeheartedly agrees, and moreover, we emphasize that a zero tolerance for bullying must exist. All students are entitled to a safe learning environment. Thus, the board is asking all school districts to redouble their efforts to eliminate the bullying of any student, whatever the reason.”

The Kentucky Department of Education is available to provide resources on the topic and to help facilitate communication between parents and school districts when bullying occurs. For assistance, you can contact Assistant General Counsel Amy Peabody in the Office of Guiding Support Services at (502) 564-4474 or via e-mail at amy.peabody@education.ky.gov or staff in the Division of Student Success at (502) 564-2116. Additionally, staff at the Kentucky Center for School Safety is available at (877) 805-4277.

“Make sure that if bullying situations arise in your school districts, they are addressed. Please join together with the board to eliminate this serious problem that can render devastating emotional and psychological impacts upon our vulnerable youth.” Karem said.