Midland Park Public Schools

Excellence in Education

Anti-BullyingBill of Rights Act, effective September 1, 2011

Dear Midland Park Parents/Guardians:

On September 1, 2011, the New Jersey Legislature passed the Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights Act, a law designed to address harassment, intimidation, and bullying (HIB) behaviors in schools.

This year, we continue our commitment to provide safe and effective school environments through HIB training and an emphasis on creating a positive school climate focused on prevention. Administrators and staff will help students develop an understanding of bullying and a sense of responsibility with regard to their role in helping prevent it. It is important for students to understand that not all negative peer interactions can be categorized as bullying, and most will likely be identified as normal peer-to-peer dissonance.

As our most important partners in education, I am encouraging you to discuss with your child your expectations for positive behaviors and appropriate decision-making while in school. By joining us in this effort, we can maximize the impact of this critical character-building message. A good point of reference for this discussion is the student code of conduct for your child’s grade level.

The Midland Park Public School District keeps the safety and well-being of students at the forefront of its efforts. The district website www.mpsnj.org  has an anti-bullying legislation link located on the right-hand side of the homepage. There you will find additional information on this issue,including a link to the district policy, forms and bulletins, character education activities in our schools, and other related information. As with all district endeavors, your input is valued and appreciated—please reach out to me, your child’s principal, the district Anti-Bullying Coordinator or your school’s Anti-Bullying School Specialist at any time with your questions or concerns (contact information below).

Sincerely,

Dr. Marie Cirasella

Superintendent of Schools