The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release January 31, 2012
Presidential Proclamation — National Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month, 2012

NATIONAL TEEN DATING VIOLENCE AWARENESS AND PREVENTION MONTH, 2012

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BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

In America, an alarming number of young people experience physical, sexual, or emotional abuse as part of a controlling or violent dating relationship.  The consequences of dating violence — spanning impaired development to physical harm — pose a threat to the health and well-being of teens across our Nation, and it is essential we come together to break the cycle of violence that burdens too many of our sons and daughters.  This month, we recommit to providing critical support and services for victims of dating violence and empowering teens with the tools to cultivate healthy, respectful relationships.

Though we have made substantial progress in the fight to reduce violence against women, dating violence remains a reality for millions of young people.  In a 12 month period, one in 10 high school students nationwide reported they were physically hurt on purpose by their boyfriend or girlfriend, and still more experienced verbal or emotional abuse like shaming, bullying, or threats.  Depression, substance abuse, and health complications are among the long-term impacts that may follow in the wake of an abusive relationship.  Tragically, dating violence can also lead to other forms of violence, including sexual assault.  These outcomes are unacceptable, and we must do more to prevent dating violence and ensure the health and safety of our Nation’s youth.

The path toward a future free of dating violence begins with awareness.  As part of my Administration’s ongoing commitment to engaging individuals and communities in this important work, Vice President Joe Biden launched the 1is2many initiative last September.  In concert with awareness programs occurring across Federal agencies, the initiative calls on young men and women to take action against dating violence and sexual assault and help advance public understanding of the realities of abuse.  The National Dating Abuse Helpline offers information and support to individuals struggling with unhealthy relationships.  For immediate and confidential advice and referrals, I encourage concerned teens and their loved ones to contact the Helpline at 1-866-331-9474, text “loveis” to 77054, or visit:  www.LoveIsRespect.org.  Additional resources are available at:  www.CDC.gov/features/datingviolence.

My Administration continues to promote new and proven strategies to target teen dating violence.  Last November, we announced the winners of the Apps Against Abuse technology challenge, concluding a national competition to develop innovative new tools that will empower young Americans and help prevent dating violence and sexual assault.  As we move forward, we will continue to collaborate with both public and private partners to bring new violence prevention strategies to individuals and communities across our Nation.  To learn more, visit:  www.WhiteHouse.gov/1is2many.

Reducing violence against teens and young adults is an important task for all of us.  This month, we renew our commitment to breaking the silence about dating abuse and fostering a culture of respect in our neighborhoods, our schools, and our homes.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim February 2012 as National Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month.  I call upon all Americans to support efforts in their communities and schools, and in their own families, to empower young people to develop healthy relationships throughout their lives and to engage in activities that prevent and respond to teen dating violence.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of January, in the year of our Lord two thousand twelve, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-sixth.

BARACK OBAMA

Truman Magazine December 2011

Also, Shannika Campbell has been selected to participate in an international moot court in the Netherlands.
More to come

The ribbon was cut Wednesday on the Northeast Bronx Planetarium, right here inside Truman High School.  The planetarium was recently refurbished, with a new digital projection and automation system, new carpeting and new seats.  Enjoy this news coverage, courtesy of News 12 The Bronx.

This is the pilot episode of a brand new news magazine program produced by students in the Truman Media Program.  The show is still under growth and development, but we hope you’ll enjoy our first episode!

Spinach, roasted garlic and cheese Calzones

Meat Stromboli

Margarita with fresh mozzarella, basil, tomato and sesame crust

Chicago style deep dish with any topping

Sicilian Pie

Assorted round pies with meat and vegetable toppimngs (sausage and peppers, pepperoni, meatball, ham, mushroom, roasted garlic, chicken)

Zeppoles with powdered sugar and chocolate sauce

Photo: NY Post

In October, Ms. Nasser was selected as one of twelve recipients of the NY Post Liberty Medal Award.  She was honored at a ceremony in Manhattan at the News Corporation building on 6th Avenue.  The awards were started after 9/11 as a way of honoring everyday New Yorkers who are making an impact in other’s lives.  To read more about Ms. Nasser’s selection, please click one of the photos below.  Also, enjoy our own video and photo slideshow from the event.

 

Photo: NY Post

(NY POST, Sept. 22, 2011)- Principal Sana Nasser has turned Harry S. Truman HS in The Bronx, one of the city’s largest public high schools, into one with a small-school feel and higher graduation rates.

“I wanted to create the personalized education that small schools can offer that they say large schools can’t,’’ said Nasser, who became principal in 1998.

When she took over, gangs were a big problem, attracting new teachers was hard, and Co-Op City parents didn’t feel comfortable sending their children there.

Nasser said the school is now “a place where you can walk anywhere and feel safe.’’ And through her partnership with PENCIL, a nonprofit that connects business leaders with principals to transform public schools, she created smaller, career-themed academies.

To read the entire article, click here.

After presenting the check, Muhammad Wilkerson, John Conner and Patrick Turner took to the Truman Football field to watch our girls in action.  They even got involved themselves and did a little one-on-one coaching.

Check out a few photos from the event, below.  Special Thanks to the Truman High School Media Program‘s Kadedra Jenkins, Shawn Campbell, Robert Baez, Ernesto Gonzalez, Precious Hyre, Matthew Rivera and Brian Segarra for providing photos and video of the event.



This article appeared in the September 22, 2011 edition of the NY Post on page 28.  It’s a great summary of some of the amazing turnaround tales going on here at Truman High School.  Truman High School is New York City’s best-kept secret and arguably the best large high school in the Bronx.  Enjoy the article!