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| NYSUT: More accurate reporting and improved school violence prevention programs needed May 22, 2006 ALBANY, N.Y. May 22, 2006 — New York State United Teachers said school districts must do a better job of accurately reporting incidents of school violence, saying clear, objective reporting of problems is an essential first step toward making schools safer for children. Responding to state Comptroller Alan Hevesi's audit of school districts' reporting practices, NYSUT President Richard C. Iannuzzi said, "The vast majority of public schools are very safe, but we all know in some places, societal problems create schoolhouse problems. Sweeping those problems under the rug won’t make students any safer. "If there isn't a clear picture of how far school violence extends, then we will never adequately address it. Teachers, students and parents know what's going on; school districts should let State Education Department know as well." Iannuzzi said the 535,000-member union strongly supports Project SAVE, the comprehensive school violence legislation enacted six years ago. Project SAVE was modeled after the union's comprehensive school safety recommendations, and included reporting requirements for school districts. Still, Iannuzzi said school districts need much clearer definitions of what must be reported, and more financial resources to fund school violence-prevention programs. In addition, the SED needs additional funding to better monitor school violence reporting and to develop programs to help prevent school violence. "Just knowing about the problem isn't enough," Iannuzzi said. "The problem needs to be fixed and SED has to help fix it by developing violence-prevention programs. That takes a real investment and a real commitment from school districts to implement those programs." Iannuzzi said safe, orderly learning environments are essential to maintaining the clear progress public schools are making. "It's tough for teachers to teach and children to learn if there's an atmosphere of fear or danger in our schools," Iannuzzi said. "High standards for achievement are clearly linked to high standards for behavior. We must do everything in our power to make our schools safe havens for children." NYSUT, the largest union in New York state, represents more than 535,000 classroom teachers and other school employees; academic and professional faculty at the state’s community colleges, State University of New York and City University of New York; and other education and health professionals. NYSUT is affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers, AFL-CIO. -30- |
CONTACT: NYSUT Media Relations and Communications. (518) 213-6000, Ext. 6313. E-Mail: mediarel@nysutmail.org. |
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