to thrive are a key component of our mission and vision at MCS.We are committed to programs and curriculum that include a district-wide approach, clear policies and procedures, training for all staff, age-appropriate student lessons and opportunities, parent and family involvement, and targeted support, if and when necessary.
Proactive for Preventative!
1. Each building has a student services staff which includes a licensed school counselor, a School Resource Officer (SRO), and either a licensed social worker and/or licensed mental health counselors who are all available to work with students. We also have a number of working partnerships with other providers within the community who provide additional, wrap-around services for students in need.
2. Students are actively engaged from preschool in character education curriculum delivered in combination by our teachers, counselors, social workers, SROs, administrators, coaches, and peers. Children learn from observation. When we model respect, kindness, and healthy conflict resolution, we are teaching them how to treat others. Peer-led programs, like Sources of Strength, empower our students to take ownership and hands-on responsibility for creating a positive, supportive, and respectful building culture among our student body.
3. Each building has a student services staff which includes a licensed school counselor, a School Resource Officer (SRO), and either a licensed social worker and/or licensed mental health counselor who are all available to work with students. We also have a number of working partnerships with other providers within the community who provide additional, wrap-around services for students in need.
4. All staff are required to participate in an initial two-day TBRI® training with annual refresher courses before the beginning of each school year. TBRI creates the foundation of our approach to becoming a trauma-informed community committed to better care, understanding, and modeling for students through relationships, teaching them to work through conflict in a healthy manner.
5. The state requires all school staff to complete annual training modules around bullying, cyberbullying, mandatory reporting, and other topics around student health and safety. Each reported instance is taken seriously and is to be reported to the proper authorities for further investigation.
6. We have an anonymous tip reporting app in partnership with Sandy Hook "Say Something" Promise. Students are taught to report to either a building administrator, SRO, safe adult, or tip line if they see or experience anything that may be harmful to themself or others.
Expectations, Choices & Consequences
From their first days with us, students are provided with expectations, rules, and information about consequences that are outlined in our student handbooks and Code of Conduct Handbook. Every student enrolled in our district has had a parent sign off on these items, stating they understand the contents.
Reports are taken seriously. While each instance may not result in a report, each instance is an opportunity to educate, communicate, and repair a relationship.
Outcomes are not shared publicly. When a situation arises, it is the goal of the district to communicate with those impacted directly as quickly as possible. Please understand this may take some time, and respect that we are gathering all information, trust that we are doing thorough work, and are committed to being as transparent as possible.
Resources & Information Links
Indiana State Law Regarding Bullying
IDOE Bullying Prevention Resources
IDOE Student Safety/Bullying Reporting
Form for Reporting Alleged Bullying Incidents
We encourage all students, staff, and parents to engage in meaningful discussions about the negative aspects of bullying. If you have a concern, please contact your building principal.
