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Westchester School Introduce Anti-Bullying App Following Spate Of Violence

In the wake of several violent incidents involving students at the New Rochelle High School, district officials have partnered with the creators of an anti-bullying application in an effort to curtail any further instances.

The New Rochelle School District has introduced a new anti-bullying app from a Westchester-based organization.

The New Rochelle School District has introduced a new anti-bullying app from a Westchester-based organization.

Photo Credit: New Rochelle Schools

The Board of Education announced at its most recent meeting that it is partnering with Anonymous Alerts, a Westchester County-based company that is “an award-winning anti-bullying and safety reporting mobile app and system for students, community members and staff.”

According to the Board of Education, Anonymous Alerts is a patented anonymous two-way communications system that empowers students to anonymously report bullying and harassment, weapons, drug/alcohol usage and other safety concerns directly to school officials.

In response to the student incidents, including the fatal stabbing of Valaree Schwab after she was followed by a group of teenagers to a nearby business, the district launched the reporting website, which is available on the district website’s homepage.

“The new technology at students’ fingertips will help them to anonymously discuss sensitive topics, have compassion for others, and learn self-awareness about issues confronting today’s youth,” officials said when announcing the app. “Administrators will get an app of their own called the Anonymous Alerts Incident Management app to anonymously respond to students, track incidents and take notes.”

“The Board of Education has heard the concerns from our parents and community,” Board President Rachel Relkin stated. “The school district has always strived for increased openness and communication among its students, parents and staff and this app will further the district’s mission.”

“With the development of this partnership, the Board of Education and the school district administration will empower students to be engaged citizens and easily voice any bullying or safety concerns they may have to the school administration,” Schools Superintendent Brian Osborne added.

The system will be monitored from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.

In a statement, T. Gregory Bender, President & CEO of Anonymous Alerts said that “we are excited to help encourage students in the City School District of New Rochelle to voice their concerns to school administration and take a stand against bullying or harmful behavior with our cutting-edge technology.” 

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