FREDERICKTOWN – Earlier this month, Ohio School Report Cards; which provide ratings for schools across the state in categories such as graduation rates, improvement of at-risk readers and gap closing, were released.
Fredericktown Local Schools' (FLS) report card has reason to celebrate: there were no reported incidents of bullying during the Fall 2020 semester.
Dr. Susan M. Hayward, superintendent of FLS, said the district takes pride in providing a safe learning environment for all students.
"If we have an incident when a student disrespects or demeans another student, it is addressed immediately," Hayward told the Mount Vernon News. "Our school social worker, Mrs. Hannah Art, often meets with students in conflict to help them problem-solve and to come up with a solution."
The district utilizes a Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) team to review student discipline data and intervene in disruptive behavior before it occurs, as well as reinforce positive student actions.
Hayward referenced FLS' first-year Assistant Principal and Athletic Director Adam Brown, who has extensive knowledge of PBIS.
"Adam has taken the PBIS team to new heights," FLS middle- and high school Principal Brent Garee said. "He has great knowledge of PBIS and has worked with our staff to really improve student discipline and behaviors."
Hayward explained that FLS' approach to bullying is prevention. The guidance counselor uses classroom time to interact with students and educate them about what positive and appropriate social interaction looks like. The schools' administration, faculty and staff keep close watch over student behaviors in the halls and classrooms to ensure that any behavior encroaching on bullying is promptly reported.
"When we find out a student is disrespectful to someone else, we handle it as soon as we find out," Garee said. "We want our schools to be a place where students feel safe and respected."
While FLS — among all of the other schools in Ohio — did not receive grades or ratings on its 2019-20 report card due to the COVID-19 pandemic and mandated school closure, Hayward noted several other things of note that have been happening at FLS.
The district brought the Signs of Suicide (SOS) program to Knox County through partnership with the Center for Suicide Prevention and Research at Nationwide Children's Hospital. The program offers resources for depression and suicidal tendencies. It was implemented in 7th- and 9th-grade classrooms.
Additionally, FLS senior Scott Lanuzza was awarded the Kiwanis Good Citizenship Award this month. He was honored for his school leadership and dedication to community service. He tutors, leads in the high school band and regularly volunteers in the community.
"He is always willing to help anyone out, and he does it with a smile," Garee said.
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