Jamestown Public Schools Athletic Director Ben Drake Tuesday talks about the success of student athletes. P-J photo by Michael Zabrodsky

Jamestown school board members heard from four district residents concerning harassment and bullying in district schools.

Lori Bartlett said her granddaughter was harassed at Washington Middle School, now she no longer attends Washington.

Patricia Harley said her daughter is being bullied at Lincoln Elementary School.

“She’s been saying she’s getting threatened and nothing is being done,” Harley noted.

Alicia Patterson asked the board if a community dialogue can be established to hear about bullying and harassment situations, and the policies in district schools.

Merry Williams said there is gang activity in district schools.

“Safety has always been a top priority of this district,” Abbott said.

He added that about two years ago, the district’s safety committee addressed concerns from district residents and other measures making schools safer.

“We have already put in place more social workers. We have more counselors,” Abbott added. “So although I understand that there may be individuals who are feeling particularly passionate about it (bullying) for individual reasons at this time, I don’t think it speaks to an overall climate in our district.”

Board members of the Jamestown High School Basketball team, and the combined swim team of Falconer, Frewsburg, Jamestown, Southwestern were recognized Tuesday by the Jamestown Public Schools Board of Education.

“We have a combined team this year with JHS Falconer, Frewsburg and Southwestern, and we had an outstanding team, and we broke a number of records,” said JPS Athletic Director Ben Drake.

Drake said that JHS swimmer Connor Dean won an individual New York State Championship in the 200 Individual Medley, and he was a member of the 200 Medley Relay, 200 Free Relay, and the 400 Freestyle Relay.

Drake added that now the record board will have new names attached to it.

“We’re going to have to look to put in a purchase order for some new banners, which is a good problem to have,” Drake said with a laugh.

Drake also recognized the JHS Boys Basketball team for making the state Final Four again. He said it was a tremendous accomplishment to go back to the finals.

“Just another great season,” Drake said. “They (JHS team members) were ECIC undefeated champions, the Section Six champions, Far West Region Champions, and advanced to the New York State Final Four.”

JPS Board President Paul Abbott also shared some words of praise for the athletes.

“First and foremost, for all the excitement during your seasons, it’s been fun to watch you and read about you,” Abbott said.

He added that for some athletes, high school may be the end of their athletic careers, and for others, they may go on to play in college.

“Congratulations on all of your successes,” Abbott added.