New York City School Children Have Protection Against Bully's
The Dignity for All Students Act was signed into law today by Governor David Patterson. The law protects students from harassment because of their race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender or sex. Schools are required to create an environment free from harassment and discrimination by revising their codes of conduct and designating staff members to prevent such behavior.
In signing the bill, Patterson noted that far too often, school children are ruthlessly targeted by bullies. The bill's sponsor, State Senator Thomas Duane, noted the bills intention; No child should be terrified to go to school due to bullying and harassment. In the technology age, bullying has subjected children to a 24/7 onslaught of harassment, with no escape. The proliferation of facebook, Myspace and text messaging has created a virtual world in which for bullies to work and to hide anonymously behind their actions.
The law is to take effect on July 1, 2012 but certain provisions will take effect before that date. Numerous other states have enacted anti-bullying laws, including Georgia, where an 11-year old boy committed suicide after being repeatedly being bullied at school. As a parent, you need to be aware of signs that your child is being bullied in school. Some possible warning signs are if your child comes home with torn or damaged clothing, appears sad or depressed when he comes home from school, has frequent bad dreams or seems afraid to go to school. If your child has any of these signs, talk with your child and then talk with the teachers at your child's school. If your child is being bullied, take quick action as bullying can have serious effects on children.
