HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-10-10 Community Relations Committeei
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COMMUNITY RELATIONS COMMITTEE OS-10-10
Committee Members Present: Henry Davis, Jr., David Varner,
Ann Puzzello
Other Council Present: Derek Dieter; Tim Rouse; Oliver Davis; Tom LaFountain; AI
"Buddy" Kirsits
Others Present: James Kapsa, Mikki Dobski, Mayor Luecke, Gregg Zientara,
Gary Gilot, Roz Ellis, Joe Walker, Rita Kopala, Stephanie Spivey
Agenda: SBCSC Discussion on Bullying
School Safety Zones
Henry Davis, Chair of the Community Relations Committee called the meeting to order at 5:00 to
discuss recent new stories and community concerns about bullying in the schools. This is part of
Councilmember Henry Davis' continuing initiative to engage the Council, the School Corporation,
the Mayor's office and other community groups in positive dialogue about improving the quality of
life in South Bend. Working with fellow Councilmember Karen White and others Henry has been
instrumental in focusing attention on issues ranging from graffiti, economic opportunity basic city
services, and youth involvement all for more equitable distribution of city services and a brighter
future for the city's youth.
Invited to this meeting is the School Corporation represented by School Superintendent James
Kapsa, Rosalind Ellis, Director of Pupil Personnel and School Board member Stephanie Spivey.
Superintendent Kapsa spoke first addressing recent instances of bullying in the schools. He then
introduced Rosalind Ellis who went through an extensive power point presentation on "bullying",
including what it is, why it happens, and what is being done about it in the schools. (Presentation
attached) Rosalind also provided hand-outs typically provided to teachers, parents, and students
by the United States Department of Health and Human Services.
Stephanie Spivey expressed appreciation for the opportunity to dialogue and voiced support for
Councilman Davis' attempt to bring communities together.
Following brief discussion Councilmember Henry Davis noted the topic of school safety zones
would be rescheduled to Monday, May 24, 2010.
There being no further business to come before the Committee at this time, Chairperson Henry
Davis adjourned the meeting at 5:40 p.m.
Res ectfully S fitted,
Henry Davis, Jr., Chairperson
Community Relations Committee