Charleston County Engages Families at School Support Meeting
Charleston County, S.C. recently experienced a community-focused event that addressed pertinent issues affecting students in local schools. Organized by the Charleston County School District’s Department of School Support, the gathering took place on Wednesday night at Camp Road Middle School and aimed to engage students, parents, and community members in meaningful conversations.
Dr. Shavonna Coakley, the executive director of the Department of School Support, kicked off the evening by discussing the importance of the “SPACE” meetings, a series of workshops initiated last year to foster open dialogue. “We wanted to know what’s working well, what needs improvement, and how we can restore trust and build understanding among all stakeholders,” Coakley explained. The meetings are designed to look at current trends affecting students and to address them collaboratively.
Vaping, Drugs, and Their Impact
Among the significant topics discussed, the alarming rise of vape and drug usage among students caught everyone’s attention. Coakley highlighted how easily accessible these substances can be for students. “Our scholars can walk into a convenience store, and despite the regulations, these items somehow end up in their hands,” she noted. She attributed much of this influence to social media, which often glamorizes substance use.
To combat this issue, the district offers a free program called ADAPT, which focuses on educating students about the harmful effects of substances as well as providing intervention strategies. This program covers several aspects including problem identification, environmental strategies, and treatment referrals, ensuring that families have the tools they need to tackle these challenges.
Understanding Bullying and Its Effects
Bullying was another pressing issue brought to light during the meeting. The discussion delved into why students often hesitate to speak up about bullying they witness or experience. Fear of being labeled a “tattle tale” or facing backlash from peers often keeps students silent. To address these concerns, the speakers introduced valuable resources designed to help students recognize bullying, report it, and understand their rights.
One effective way to report bullying, as shared during the meeting, is through the district’s Speak Up for Safety communication lines, which allow students to send an email or call a hotline to report incidents anonymously. Cyberbullying was also highlighted as a major concern, with attendees discussing its growing prevalence and the need for parents to stay informed about their children’s online interactions.
A Parent’s Perspective
Attendees like Susan Marullo, who brought her daughter along, were appreciative of the insights gained. “The key takeaways are that my daughter is here and she knows what to do. There is more education. It’s great to see the district providing different avenues for communication,” said Marullo, expressing her satisfaction with the information shared.
Addressing Student Discipline
The final portion of the evening focused on student discipline, with speakers explaining the progressive discipline plan employed by the district. This plan serves as a guide for determining consequences for rule violations, including the issues discussed earlier, such as bullying and substance use. Coakley emphasized the importance of making positive choices and ensuring a safe learning environment for all students.
“Everything we do in life is about choices, right? So when we make poor choices, it has negative consequences,” she said, highlighting the district’s commitment to both educating students and supporting parents in navigating these issues.
For those interested in future meetings, the next SPACE briefing is scheduled for October 16 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Haut Gap Middle School. Such events are crucial in fostering a collaborative approach to making Charleston County schools a safer and more supportive environment for all students.
