Few Instances of Violence, Vandalism Reported in Cranford Schools

The Cranford Public School district had few reported instances of Violence, Vandalism, Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying during the 2012-13 school year, according to Violence and Vandalism date released by the state on Thursday. 

The data also showed that zero instances of Vandalism or Violence were reported from the Cranford district in the first half of the year, but four instances occurred at Cranford High School in the second half of the year (Jan.-June).

The data shows that during last school year, 23 HIB incidents were reported and 20 were investigated during the required 10-day period. Of those incidents, four were out of Cranford High School, five from Hillside Avenue School, one from Bloomingdale Avenue school and nine from Orange Avenue School. Following the 10-day investigation, eight incidents were actually confirmed as HIB incidents by the Board of Education. 

The nature of the incidents included; four related to race, one to color, three to sexual orientation, two to gender identity and expression, five of mental, physical or sensory disability and twelve related to other distinguishing characteristics. 19 of the incidents happened through verbal communication, while three were electronic communication. Additionally, two was written and two was physical.

The actions resulted in four suspensions of privileges, one in-school suspension, three out-of -school suspensions and nine detentions. The numbers may vary from the amount of incidents based on the number of students involved and/or a combination of actions to an individual student. 24 students also received counseling following the reported incidents. 

Full report is available on the State Department of Education’s website. 

Superintendent Dr. Carrick was not available at the time of publication. We’ll update this story as more information becomes available.