After hearing from concerned students and parents in recent weeks, officials in the Mars School District are outlining plans to address diversity and bullying issues in the district.

ADAMS TWP — After hearing from concerned students and parents in recent weeks, officials in the Mars School District are outlining plans to address diversity and bullying issues in the district.

According to a release from the district, a confidential safety hotline will begin operation Tuesday. Students can call the Safety Hotline at 724-625-2720 to report any issues with bullying, school safety and other matters. All information will be kept confidential and will be reviewed and address, “immediately,” the release states.

Additionally, the Board of School Directors and the district's administration are reviewing the district's policies on discipline, harassment, bullying and cyberbullying. Any changes would be posted for public review.

Wes Shipley, superintendent, will be meeting with students as part of a building-level roundtable lunch series to discuss the school climate, and to get feedback from students on how to improve issues in the schools.

The district will also host a series of speakers and presentations on diversity and bullying in the coming weeks and at the start of next school year, including the Rachel's Challenge program.

“The District is hopeful that all of these steps will help to improve our school climate and to lead our students, our staff, and the whole of the school community in a positive direction moving forward,” Shipley said.

A full story will appear in the Butler Eagle.