Thursday, January 12, 2017

RESPECT COMMITTEE CHECKS IN WITH STUDENTS

By NICOLE QUINONES


Students at Washingtonville High School may already be aware of the survey that was taken during all Social Studies classes this week on Google Classroom.   The survey pertained to the environment of the school and its safety. The survey is being conducted by the Respect Committee at WHS.  Attached to the survey is a description of what the Respect Committee is all about. It says, “Our mission is to promote a culture of respect in order to make our school safe for everyone. In order to achieve this goal we need to to determine the climate of the school from the students’ perspective.” 
NICOLE QUINONES FOR WIZARD WEEKLY

Within the survey, there are five sections of questions. The first section concerns demographic information which asks questions about the race gender and age of the student taking the survey. 

The next section is about the intellectual engagement and connection to the school. This section focuses on how much a student enjoys going to school, if they try hard, are involved in activities like clubs and sports, and if they feel respected. An important aspect that is touched upon in this survey is whether or not the physical safety of a student is at risk.  In addition, it asks if students worry about their safety and if they have witnessed physical violence at the school. 

Another section touched upon is the emotional well-being of the students. This section relates to whether or not students enjoy being at school, hate being at school, or feel anxious, depressed or overwhelmed about school work and grades. The survey then goes on to ask about students’ relationship with peers, how students treat each other, if students feel like they belong, and if bullying and harassment are problems at WHS.  Perhaps the most important part of this survey is when it questions if students have been harassed because of their religious preference, physical expression, race/ethnicity, body type, gender, sexuality, sexual choice, political views, parents’ income, amount of friends, intellect, and likes/dislikes. This is tremendously important because it helps the faculty become aware of students being treated differently for being who they are. 

Yet another aspect of the survey inquires about the relationship between adults and teachers. It touches upon whether or not students feel comfortable reporting bullying or if they have an adult in the building that they can talk to. The final section of the questionnaire  asks if students stand up for themselves and others.

The Respect Committee did something very helpful by putting out this survey. It is a chance for students to open their minds and become more aware of what is going on around them. It’s time to face the problems going on in the world in order to make sure that Washingtonville High School is a safe environment for all who attend.  Students are very pleased that the Respect Committee is willing to start conversations about these topics. 

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