Contributors: Rachel Jamison and Aaron Yeager.
We have been continuing to push the Stow-Munroe Falls school system and its Board of Education to do the right thing. Recently, a student created an anonymous Instagram account, @concernedstudentsofsmfhs, detailing some serious concerns from students at the high school about bullying, sexual assault, and mental health.
The school responded by calling these statements one-sided, and intimidated the students by involving their lawyers. You can read more about the situation in the Akron Beacon Journal.
We had a chance to meet with the students, and they expressed frustration at not being taken seriously, since they’re minors. The school has made no effort to address their concerns, so we’re urging you to let the students know that you’re here to support them, and let the school know that we’re paying attention.
What can you do? Contact the Superintendent Tom Bratten, Assistant Superintendent Kristen Prough, and High School Principal Jeff Hartmann, and say the following:
“Hi, My name is ________. I’m calling because I saw the article in the Akron Beacon Journal about bullying, sexual assault, and mental health issues, at the high school. I’m concerned about the school’s aggressive response, and lack of accountability, and I’m requesting that the school make a statement at the November 22nd Board of Education meeting, saying how they’re addressing this. Thank you.”
Contact Information
Phone
For both of the numbers below, dial “0” to speak to the receptionist, and ask them to transfer you to Tom’s, Kristen’s, or Jeff’s direct line. If no one picks up, leave a voicemail, and ask reception to forward it to the correct person.