BULLYING SEMINAR PLANNED
CYBERSPACE MEANIES FOCUS OF SCHOOL PROGRAM
By Alex Davis Endeavor News

According to the Department of Education, personal injury and intimidation were by far the most prevalent forms of misconduct in United States schools in 2005 (the most recent available data).

Bullying has become a more complex subject since Charles Atlas set out to defend his honor after a ruffian kicked sand in his face.

A common tool for badgering or coercing the vulnerable is the internet.

On Monday night, a recognized expert will provide information for parents who are concerned about inappropriate use of the internet and the problems associated with bullying among young people.

"Cyberbullying and Internet Safety" is the topic of the seminar that will feature a presentation by retired Chuck Favata, being held in the high school auditorium at 6:30.

Favata will outline ways to prevent students from being bullied or otherwise enticed through chat rooms, instant messaging and social networking websites, including MySpace and AOL Instant Messenger.

A companion program is being held for students during the school day.

Cameron County School Superintendent Clyde Moate said he hopes the program will make students and parents aware of the potential for abuse of young people through the internet or in social settings.

Moate said students need to realize that it's appropriate to tell teachers, parents or other authority figures if a friend or classmate is being victimized by bullying.

"It happens frequently enough," Moate said. "It will be a plus to talk about it."

Olweus Bullying Prevention Program, which has been initiated at both schools in the Cameron County School District, has worked well, the superintendent reported.

"Students are now more aware of what constitutes bullying and what they should do if they see it or experience it," he said.

Favata said much of the solution comes down to parental vigilance.

"Parents face a challenge," he said. "It all comes down to responsibility and ownership of technology . . . Most parents don't like to get involved in the technology end of their kids' behavior, but they must."

Monday's program is sponsored by the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program and Communities that Care. Everyone attending the May 5 session may enter a drawing by Cameron County PROSPER to award door prizes, such as amusement park tickets and gas cards.

Additional information is available at 486-3350, extension 4, or a website, chuckfavata. com.