cyberbullying

Press Release:

The Batavia Police Department is committed to creating a safe and respectful environment for all members of our community, both online and offline. As we increasingly rely on digital platforms to connect with one another, it's essential that we address the growing concern of cyberbullying. 

Cyberbullying is the use of technology to harass, intimidate, or threaten someone, often anonymously. It can take many forms, including mean or hurtful messages, emails, or posts on social media, as well as the sharing of personal or embarrassing information about someone without their consent. 

The effects of cyberbullying can be devastating, leading to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and low self-esteem. It's crucial that we take a stand against this behavior and promote a culture of kindness, empathy, and respect online. 

So, what can you do to help prevent cyberbullying? 

• Think before you post: Consider the potential impact of your words on others before sharing them online.
• Be kind and respectful: Treat others the way you want to be treated, both online and offline.
• Report suspicious behavior: If you witness or experience cyberbullying, report it to the appropriate authorities, such as school administrators or law enforcement.
• Support the victim: Reach out to those who may be affected by cyberbullying and offer your support and friendship. 

Together, we can create a safer and more compassionate online community. Remember, our words have power, and it's up to each of us to use them responsibly. 

If you or someone you know is a victim of cyberbullying, please don't hesitate to reach out to the Batavia Police Department or a trusted adult for help and support. Let's work together to create a bully-free online environment!

Press release:

On Thursday, February 17, 2022, the Batavia City School District Board of Education voted unanimously on a resolution endorsing New York State Senate Bill S7600 and Senate Bill S1477A, which serve as amendments to provisions of the State Education and Penal Laws to address an increase in harassment made through the use of electronic communications. 

The State Senate has introduced Senate Bill S7600, sponsored by Senator Edward A. Rath III, amending the State Education Law to include a provision that a person who engages in a repeated course of cyber-bullying of a minor shall be guilty of an unclassified misdemeanor, and Senate Bill S1477A, amending the State Penal Law to include contacts via text, private message, direct message, or email or other electronic communication in the definition of the offense of aggravated harassment in the second degree. S7600 is currently under review by the State Senate Education Committee, and S1477A has passed the State Senate and is awaiting passage by the State Assembly. 

The Batavia City School District's Code of Conduct expressly prohibits all forms of bullying and harassment, including cyberbullying. With the approval of the resolution, "the Board of Education hereby affirms its commitment to foster a safe and inclusive learning environment for its students free from all forms of bullying, including cyber-bullying, and supports the efforts of the State Senate to adopt legislation which is consistent with that commitment. This resolution shall take effect immediately." 

"It was important for the Board of Education to show our support for Senator Rath's cyberbullying bill. It is our top priority to ensure students in our district remain safe, healthy, and free from bullying of any kind–and the endorsement of this bill affirms that," said Alice Ann Benedict, BOE President.

"We were happy to work with Senator Rath on endorsing this important and timely initiative. We look forward to the bill passing for the safety of the students throughout New York State," said BCSD Superintendent Jason Smith.

"It is no secret that our children are facing many challenges these days. Unfortunately, with the rise in internet use comes the danger of cyberbullying. Cyberbullying incidents are on the rise, and we must do something to protect our children. That is why I have introduced legislation to make cyberbullying a misdemeanor. Teaching our children that their actions on the internet carry consequences is critical," said Senator Rath.

Press release:

The Batavia Police Department has released an internet safety presentation for parents, guardians and community members today (Oct. 28).

The presentation is 46 minutes and 33 seconds in length and was made in conjunction with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and NetSmartz.org.

It features several tips for parents on how to help keep their children safe in the online world, and prevent sexting / cyberbullying.

The presentation can be found on YouTube here.