DeCroce Visits School to Speak and Learn About Cyberbullying

Source: Assembly Republican Press Release -

Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce returned to school on Tuesday to listen and learn about the issue of cyberbullying. DeCroce visited the All Saints Academy in Parsippany to speak with sixth graders about the Power to Learn program which is an education initiative sponsored by Cablevision. The program provides advice and information to parents, teachers and students about the dangers of cyberbullying.

“I was impressed with the students’ knowledge and I know everyone who participated came away with a better understanding of this potentially dangerous and harmful issue,” explained DeCroce. “The Power to Learn program is a comprehensive and common sense approach on avoiding and dealing with cyber-harassment. This kind of intimidation extends beyond the classroom and making students aware of the ways to deal with cyberbullying is a positive step that benefits everyone.“In today’s society, the level of sophistication on using the internet and mass media communications does not require a college degree,” said DeCroce, R-Morris, Essex and Passaic. “In order to protect students from the dangers of cyberbullying, we need to reach them at an early age. Listening is an important part of learning, and that is exactly what everyone discovered.

“The most important component of dealing with this problem is communication,” explained DeCroce. “Students need to know how important it is to tell their parents or speak to a teacher when they are confronted with this kind of bullying. They are not alone and help is available.”

Part of the Power to Learn program includes tips for students and parents on dealing with cyberbullying, such as:
•Don’t share your login and password – even with friends.
•Think before you post. You can’t control what others do with your information.
•Be careful about loaning your cell phone or laptop to friends.
•Don’t respond to cyberbullying – report it to an adult.
•Keep the evidence of texts and emails as a record.
•Signs that a child is a victim of cyberbullying are: changes in mood, sleep habits and being less social with friends.
•Block the person who is sending the unwanted messages.