Action expected on CAPS anti-bullying policies

File Photo Eight people were charged in a large drug conspiracy case involving cocaine and marijuana. Arrest followed a Traverse Narcotics Team investigation that culminated in July 2006 and resulted in the seizure of thousands of dollars of cash as well as several hot rods and collectible vehicles.

CADILLAC — After some board members questioned additions to the existing anti-bullying policy last month, the Cadillac Area Public Schools Board of Education is scheduled to act on them Monday.

Although the district already has multiple things in place to combat bullying, such as the Respect and Protect program, the board of education discussed various policies including one that enhances its existing stance on bullying.

The anti-bullying policy additions CAPS is looking to implement were derived from the Michigan Department of Education. One particular part of the policy said a school district could punish a student for bullying electronically outside of school. It includes things like text messages, e-mails and use of the Internet.

CAPS board member Harry Engels said he would vote no on the policy until he had a legal judgment from the district’s attorney. In his opinion, he said the district had no right to police what students do outside of school. He also thought it was up to law enforcement to handle such situations.

CAPS Superintendent Paul Liabenow said in the time between the two meetings, information was shared with all the board members. He also said he feels all the board members understand exactly what the additions to the existing policy would do.

“It led to the understanding that we are not going to police everything. We only will be involved with e-mails that have direct threats from student to student that lead to confrontation or disruption of the school’s operation,” Liabenow said.

Although the proposed additions by the state allow for more clarification and administrative rules, Liabenow said parents still need to be aware of their children’s Internet activity.

“We don’t have the time or where with all to police e-mails going on outside of school but encourage parents to monitor their children’s e-mail and Internet activities,” Liabenow said.

The CAPS Board of Education is scheduled to meet at 7 p.m. Monday at CAPS Central Office, 421 S. Mitchell St.

rcharmoli@cadillacnews.com | 775-NEWS (6397)