Ensuring model conduct Weehawken schools set new standard of safety

Despite surrounding towns having higher numbers in violence and vandalism in the school system over the past few years, Weehawken has kept almost an exemplary record.

About two years ago, the highest number of incidents involving vandalism or violence in Weehawken schools was two. For the 2006-2007 school year, they reported zero incidents across the board.

“This was an exceptional year,” said Superintendent Kevin McLellan. Superintendent Kevin McLellan credits the low numbers to the tight knit community of Weehawken, and the consistent communication between administrators and the students.

“There is always a strong sense of community in Weehawken and that also extends to the school system,” said McLellan.

So how does Weehawken stay on top of things?

One of the main initiatives Weehawken school administrators and staff take on is being proactive in addressing potential problems before they escalate. In order to do this, administrators keep in constant communication with their student body.

“We know all the students,” said Dr. Peter Olivieri, principal of Weehawken High School.

“[If there is a potential problem] we’ll bring in a group of kids and talk with them,” said Assistant Principal Alfred Orecchio. “We do a lot of this before problems start.”

Weehawken High School houses grades 7 through 12, and has an enrollment of about 540 students. While some schools with a higher enrollment can have multiple administrators, Dr. Olivieri and Assistant Principal Orecchio have run Weehawken High School with little to no incidents.

“We go to all the [school activities and sporting events], both of us are always there,” said Olivieri.

“Their presence acts as a deterrent in itself,” said McLellan. Punishments fit the offense

According to McLellan walking around Weehawken High School you don’t see students wearing hats or using their cell phones. For the most part students follow the rules.

“When students have a clear concept [of rules and consequences] they realize it’s a form of caring about them,” said McLellan.

Weehawken has a zero tolerance policy for violence, vandalism or any other major infractions. For example if two students are involved in a fight both students are suspended, regardless of who throws the first punch.

“We feel the punishment has to go with the offense and this is what gives us our good numbers,” said McLellan. “We explain that these are the consequences that take place in real life.”

Just like a student gets suspension or detention if they cut class, if you cut work you could get discharged.

“As strict and consistent as we are, the kids don’t resent us,” said Orecchio. “They really understand.”

“It builds a relationship of mutual respect,” said McLellan. “We are always proud of our kids. We can take them on field trips, on out of state excursions, and Dr. Olivieri always hears from hotel management that our students exhibit exceptional behavior.”

“We have a very proactive administration,” said Olivieri. “The kids are very well aware that one of us will always be in attendance [at all events] and we have developed a very good relationship with them as a result.”

Working together

In addition, the school administration tries to be diligent of its student body even when they are off school grounds.

“If we see a strange car or something inappropriate we notify the authorities,” said McLellan.

Weehawken School District has a very good working relationship with the Weehawken Police Department Juvenile Bureau, and if they see something going on which is irregular the administration intercedes.

“We let students know that even if something happens outside of school we address it,” Orecchio.

Regardless as in any school, minor scuffles between students have taken place, but never anything major that has required police assistance. Since these usually tend to be minor isolated incidents, they are not included in the violence reports.

However, when these fights between students do happen parents are immediately informed, and both parties involved in the altercation are brought in for meetings with the administrators, teachers and/or guidance staff.

“[A major situation] is something that is so bad you need to get the police involved,” said McLellan. “The key is being proactive. That is the important factor in dealing with these types of situations.” Comments on this story can be sent to: current@hudsonreporter.com.

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