Monessen School District Faces Criticism Over Violence and Bullying

Strategic Insights -

Concerned parents, including Scott Holmes, have questioned the district's efforts to address violence and bullying, with Holmes citing at least three incidents involving a male student. Board President Roberta Bergstedt assured that the administration is committed to providing a safe environment for all students, but Holmes expressed dissatisfaction with the current measures, suggesting that the district needs to do more to address the issue. Priscilla Wilson and Bishop Roderick Wilson also raised concerns about bullying, with Bishop Wilson sharing his personal experience of his second-grade son being suspended for hitting a bully. The district's budget constraints were also brought up, with Board Director Norbert Vesely explaining that the district needs to balance its programs with its limited resources.

Key Takeaways:

  • At least three incidents of violence involving a male student have occurred in the Monessen School District, according to parent Scott Holmes.
  • The district's administration claims to have taken adequate steps to address the issue, but parents are dissatisfied with the measures.
  • Priscilla Wilson and Bishop Roderick Wilson expressed concerns about bullying, with Bishop Wilson sharing his personal experience of his child being suspended for hitting a bully.
  • The district's budget constraints are a significant challenge, with revenues declining and a need to balance programs with limited resources.
  • The district offers anti-bullying programs, but parents believe that more needs to be done to address the issue.
  • Board Director Norbert Vesely suggested that the district needs to explore alternative funding sources, such as grants, to support its programs.

Statistics:

  • 3: Number of incidents of violence involving a male student, according to parent Scott Holmes.
  • 2010-2011: The school year for which the district needs to pass a budget by June 30.
  • $400,000: The amount of money the district drew from its fund balance last year.
  • 100%: The percentage of the district's budget that is raised through taxes.

Sources:

  • The Valley Independent, Monessen, Pa.
  • Stacy Wolford, swolford@tribweb.com, 724-684-2640
  • PittsburghLive.com
  • McClatchy-Tribune Information Services
  • The Permissions Group Inc.