Hingham Schools Upgrade Communication Tools, Bolster Anti-Bullying Efforts
New website and app launched as district approves updated bullying prevention plan
HINGHAM, MA - August 5 - The Hingham Public Schools unveiled a new website and mobile app on July 24, aiming to enhance communication with families and streamline access to important information. The launch coincides with the school committee's approval of an updated bullying intervention and prevention plan.
Communications Director Heather Kashman presented the new digital platforms at the Aug. 5 school committee meeting. The website offers improved ADA compliance and mobile responsiveness.
"It's everything Hingham Public Schools in your pocket," Kashman said, describing the new mobile app available for download from the Apple Store and Google Play.
The upgraded system allows for simultaneous updates across multiple platforms, including social media, text messaging, and email. This feature is expected to streamline communication during events such as snow days.
"At 6 a.m. on a snow day, how it used to be is you'd have to update every platform and by the end of you updating the platform it's like 6:20," Cashman explained. "Now at 6 a.m. I'll be having this queued up and I'll be hitting publish, and it should all happen simultaneously."
The district saw significant increases in digital engagement over the past year, including a 450% higher Facebook reach and a 23% increase in web traffic.
Assitant Superintendent Katie Roberts presented an updated bullying intervention and prevention plan. The plan addresses new challenges, particularly in the realm of cyberbullying.
"We do have students at all levels who have experienced bullying and harassment, both in person and online," Roberts said.
A concerning statistic emerged from the district's Youth Risk Behavior Survey: only 26% of high school students who experienced bullying reported the incidents to parents or school staff.
To address these issues, the district will participate in the Social, Emotional, and Behavior Academy, a three-year program aimed at enhancing support systems for students.
"We want to look at a multi-tiered system of support for social, emotional, and behavioral support," Roberts explained.
The district also plans to develop and administer an annual climate survey and focus professional development on social-emotional learning and behavioral health.
Roberts emphasized the importance of these initiatives. "I think we need to continue to remind at the beginning of the year when we roll out a lot of new information. I do think when it comes to bullying and having not only as parents but also students understanding where to go for help, to continue echoing that messaging throughout the year."
The school committee unanimously approved both the new communication platforms and the updated bullying prevention plan. These initiatives are set to be implemented as students return for the 2024-2025 school year, with the first full day of school for grades 1-12 scheduled for Sept. 4.