Youth violence intervention and prevention at school forum
By Michaela Kennedy

Over 40 families gathered last week in the Melrose multi-purpose room to share a catered dinner and participate in a discussion about bullying. Students from grades 5 to 8 met with their parents and other adults in the community, asking questions and giving comments about violence at the May 22 meeting.

Principal Kathleen Almanzor coordinated efforts between the Jamestown Police Department, fire department, and Parent Teacher Organization to sponsor the evening. Bill Piva, recreation director, and Melissa Minto, teen coordinator, also helped with the event.

John Reis and Paulette Hamilton from the Rhode Island Juvenile Officers Association led the discussion with a presentation introducing Partnership to Address Violence through Education (P.A.V.E.). The partnership offers programs for children, parents and educators to help target and overcome youth violence.

"We are happy that families can come together and discuss an important topic in a safe environment," Reis noted. Reis targeted physical violence, with no apology for the raw nature of the topic. "Bullying has been around forever, and we would like to get rid of it," he said.

Reis advised parents and students on general prevention and intervention methods. He stressed the need for parental involvement in schools, and providing physical safety. He also suggested that parents listen more and not overlook trivial concerns.

Reis went on to tell students they had an obligation to speak up if they see or hear someone being bullied. He assured those present that telling was not snitching. "It's not about getting someone in trouble. It's about seeing someone who may be hurt and helping," he noted.

When some younger participants asked how to find the courage to say something, Reis told them the most important thing was to talk to someone, anyone, about their worries. "Courage exists all around you - in your family, in school," he said.

Steve Bernard, a representative for P.A.V.E., stood up and told about his experience of bullying. Bernard was shot in the head in 1987 when he was a freshman at Bristol High School. The incident was a result of bullying, and Bernard continues to pay the price with partial paralysis. His message to the students was clear: speak up. "Telling is good when it's going to save someone's life," he said.

Occasional incidents of fighting or teasing happen at school, according to some students attending the dinner. Nevertheless, they noted feeling a good safety level at the middle school.

Alicia Ruscito and Shay Riley, seventh grade friends, describe the school's social climate. Ruscito and her family moved to Jamestown last year from North Providence, and she noted differences in student behavior between the two communities. Ruscito admitted to witnessing some fighting and teasing at school here, but was quick to add that the atmosphere was much better than her previous school. "People are a lot nicer here," she commented.

Riley moved here with her family two years ago from New Jersey, and agreed that Jamestown schools are a comfortable and safe place to be.

For more information about P.A.V.E. and the educational programs offered, visit online at www. paveri.org..