The Dignity For All Students Act was signed into law in New York State in 2010. It will not go into effect until July 1st, 2012. Here is the link to the NYS Education Department Dignity Act homepage http://www.p12.nysed.gov/dignityact/
Final Critical Reflection Assignment: Please look over the weebsite page and create a 1-2 page response on your feelings towards the Dignity For All Students Act. Some questions to consider while writing your reflection: Will this act scare students and keep them from bullying others? Do you think it is a good thing to get politicians involved in this topic of school bullying or violence? Have you ever been a victim of bullying? Does this act address Cyberbullying? After participating in a series of blog assignments and learning about the history of violence and what we participate in, will this put an end to school violence?
Great activity! You are allowing students to examine some relevant current issues that also address issues with which students are grappling. You are essentially allowing students to voice their opinions on this controversial issue while discussing the implications of The Dignity For All Students Act.
ReplyDeleteOne suggestion: since this is a risquée topic, you may wish to inform students that their responses do not need to be shared with others.
I really agree with the above comment. This is an awesome activity which pulls personal situations into the classroom and requires the students to think critically about them. I think the questions you pose for their reflection are great jumping-off points for the students, and will be very helpful in getting them to dissect the topic. I also agree that it's a good idea to have them respond in a way that is not public if they wish.
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