GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCES ANTI-BULLYING STRATEGY

Learning Minister Andrew Thomson sent a strong message about bullying in schools when he announced a province-wide Anti-Bullying Strategy this afternoon in Saskatoon at Walter Murray Collegiate.

"Bullying is not tolerated in Saskatchewan schools. We recognize that bullying is a systemic issue that is not isolated to schools alone. Bullying is a community concern and a community responsibility. However, we want to do as much as possible to ensure the safety and well-being of our students within the school system," Thomson said.

This strategy will build on existing programs. It will provide policy direction on developing and implementing school codes of conduct, anti-bullying policies and crisis response plans.

The new anti-bullying strategy consists of three key actions:

-New policy directives that require all school divisions to ensure that every school in every community has a program in place to address bullying. This includes enhancing awareness regarding the anti-bullying initiatives and the roles and responsibilities of members of the school community;

-Seeking changes to the Criminal Code of Canada and the Youth Criminal Justice Act to specifically deal with systemic bullying; and

-Develop enhanced anti-bullying and suicide prevention and intervention services for our province's young people by working with mental health service providers. The provincial government will provide $250,000 in funding over three years for this initiative.

"We need to act today to renew and strengthen our collective efforts to ensure our schools and our communities are safe and respectful places for young people." Thomson said.

For more information on the Anti-Bullying Strategy and the Caring and Respectful Schools initiative visit www.sasklearning.gov.sk.ca

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For More Information, Contact:

Jacquie McLean Learning Regina Phone: (306) 787-5609 Cell: (306) 535-2261