School Committee Lauds PCIS Success

PCIS Principal Brian Palladino had good news to share with the School Committee at the end of the year. In four years, has dramatically cut down on bullying and violence in the school thanks to new policies and a new culture.

With two weeks remaining in the school year, no fights have been reported all year and the number of suspendable incidents is down 50 percent from last year.

Palladino revealed the discipline data to committee members while discussing the school improvement plan and the drive to create a safe and healthy learning environment free of bullying. For a school with more than a thousand students passing back and forth in the halls every day, it's a big step.

In 2007, there were six students involved with three fights and more than 170 suspendable incidents. The numbers have declined quickly over the intervening period as teachers and administrators have been taking a stronger stand against bullying, proactively letting students know the damage it can do.

It's not all just being against bullying. This year the school ordered 400 "do the right thing" bracelets, to reward students when they take a stand, help out or get active in creating a positive culture at PCIS. With only two weeks left in the school year, there are no more left to give out.

"A lot of credit goes to the teachers and to the house masters," Palladino said.