I read an article the other day that stated that the state of New Jersey is having difficulty financing all aspects of the new anti-bullying law. There are different mandates that are not going to be covered unless the New Jersey State Legislature allocates more money to all of the school districts in New Jersey. Some of the mandates that are part of this new law (which took effect on September 1, 2011) are the following: a) school districts must institute anti-bullying programs; b) school districts must conduct faculty and staff training; and counseling opportunities must be available for students when a bullying scenario is identified.
Do you think it is necessary for schools to receive state money in order to implement state mandates? Or do you feel that school districts should provide their own funding for these programs? Do you think that the state legislature should alter this new law so that there are not as many mandates to which school districts must adhere? Do you think it is necessary for school districts to address the issue of bullying in school? Do you believe that bullying actually exists in our schools? If so, then how can we prevent bullying? Please share any ideas, opinions, or concerns you have.
