In June, as schools close for summer vacation, many children find a temporary reprieve from bullying. However, the pervasive issue of bullying continues to affect numerous students, exacerbated by the constant presence of social media and smartphones. These tools allow bullies to extend their reach beyond school grounds.
Senator Jim Tedisco has highlighted the inadequacies in current state law that fail to keep parents informed about bullying incidents involving their children. The Dignity for All Students Act, enacted in 2012, mandates schools to report bullying incidents to the state Education Department but does not require notifying parents.
This gap in communication has led to tragic consequences. In April 2015, Jacobe Taras, a 13-year-old from Saratoga County, took his own life due to bullying. His parents were unaware of the extent of the harassment he faced at school.
To address this issue, Senator Tedisco is sponsoring “Jacobe’s Law” (Senate bill S.16), named in memory of Jacobe Taras. The legislation requires school employees responsible for handling reports of harassment or bullying to inform the parents or guardians of both victims and perpetrators.
“Jacobe’s Law” is described as a non-partisan bill with support from several Democratic sponsors and has passed the Senate twice when Senator Tedisco was in the Majority. Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh supports it in the Assembly.
Additionally, Senator Tedisco is advocating for Senate Bill S.1958, which would allow parents access to interior school bus camera footage when a bullying report is made. This measure is sponsored in the Assembly by Assemblyman Matt Simpson.
The senator emphasizes that parental involvement is crucial in addressing and preventing bullying incidents effectively. “If your child was bullied in school, wouldn’t you want to know?” he asks rhetorically, asserting that no parent has ever responded negatively.
As summer provides a temporary escape for students from school-related stressors like bullying, Senator Tedisco hopes these legislative efforts will help create lasting change by ensuring parents are informed and involved in safeguarding their children’s well-being.
