Violence in Schools

Adopted: 1999

Reaffirmed: 2006; 2013; 2022

Whereas, An objective of the New Jersey PTA is to promote the welfare and secure the safety of children and youth in our schools; and

Whereas, violence in New Jersey schools was up by approximately 35% in 2019 and it is recognized that Asian and Black students were more likely targeted than other races as well as students with disabilities, female students, and LGBTQ students; and 

Whereas, Anti-violence programs are in existence in many schools throughout the state and need to be reviewed and acted upon; and

Whereas, As required, each school district shall designate the third week in October as School Violence Awareness Week. During this week, schools must provide an opportunity for students, parents, and law enforcement personnel to discuss methods for keeping school safe from violence; to create school safety plans, and to recognize students in need of help; and

Whereas, the New Jersey PTA recognizes the importance of maintaining an atmosphere in school and in the home that supports a students’ best mental health; therefore be it

Resolved, that the New Jersey PTA support the Mental Health in Schools Act of 2013; and the 2019 bill signed into law by Governor Murphy S2861 that aimed to enhance student understanding, attitudes, and behaviors related to mental health to promote well-being; and be it further 

Resolved, that the New Jersey PTA encourage communities to establish an emotional climate that is conducive to children’s safety and good mental health; and be it further

Resolved, that the New Jersey PTA and its constituents provide to their students, parents, teacher, and community leaders resources that might include developing school safety plans and comprehensive community mental health facilities; and be it further

Resolved, that the New Jersey PTA encourage the New Jersey Department of Education and local school districts to take advantage of grant programs that provide funding for the training of school staff and parents to identify and support comprehensive mental health services, and be it further

Resolved, that the New Jersey PTA advocate that funding for the training of staff and parents be a priority; and be further 

Resolved, that the New Jersey PTA supports a nationwide program that bans military-style assault weapons and controls the sale of all weapons.