TITLE
Recommendation to request City Manager to work with the Department of Parks, Recreation and Marine and the Human Relations Commission to craft an anti-bullying policy for all City youth programs and facilities.
DISCUSSION
Bullying in schools and among youth represents a serious public health issue in the United States. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, bullying can lead to absences, declining school grades, mental health disturbances and even suicide. And while the victims of bullying are most at risk, witnesses to bullying and even the bullies themselves have an increased chance of facing many difficulties, including drug abuse, criminal behavior, and depression. About one-third of middle grade students are involved in bullying, either as bully or victim.
long Beach Unified School District has shown leadership in this area by adopting several policies in support of a safe and secure environment in schools. In 2005 lBUSD adopted the "Safe and Civil School Program", part of a national campaign to reduce school violence. The school district also has a program as part of its K-8 health curriculum called "Too Good For Violence,". And earlier this year, LBUSD adopted "Safe Space Kit: A Guide to Being an Ally for LGBT Students."
Finally, on July 3, the LBUSD Board adopted official bullying policy, which is attached. The policy defines bullying, and provides several specific policies in support of prevention, intervention, and discipline. It also provides a legal foundation for the Board's approach.
The City of Long Beach operates several after-school and youth programs at our parks, but does not have an official anti-bullying policy. The anti-bullying policies of LBUSD can provide a guiding model for the City to craft such a policy or policies. The City of Long Beach should adopt an anti-bullying policy which would be aimed at reducing bullying and creating safe, supportive environments for all children at City youth activities and facilities.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact to this measure.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully Submitted,
COUNCILMEMBER ROBERT GARCIA
FIRST DISTRICT
COUNCILWOMAN GERRIE SCHIPSKE
FIFTH DISTRICT
COUNCILMEMBER JAMES JOHNSON
SEVENTH DISTRICT
COUNCILMEMBER STEVEN NEAL
NINTH DISTRICT