Friday, Aug. 28, 2015 | 10:10 a.m.
An Arizona state senator will lead a new Nevada Department of Education office focusing on preventing bullying and cyberbullying, officials announced today.
Dr. Edward Ableser, who has served in the Arizona legislature since 2005 as both a state representative and state senator, has been named the director of the Office for a Safe and Respectful Learning Environment, effective Oct 1. Nevada state legislation passed this year created the new office, which will establish programs and training to prevent, identify and report incidents of bullying and cyberbullying. The office also will manage a new grant program that provides funding to place social workers or other licensed mental health care workers in schools.
"I am thrilled to bring my leadership, passion and experience to the Office for a Safe and Respectful Learning Environment," Ableser said in a statement. "Bullying, in all forms, will never be tolerated, and can be eradicated with the help of every parent, teacher, coach, administrator and community member."
Ableser is the son-in-law of Nevada Senator Dean Heller, according to the Arizona Republic. He and his wife, Hillary, have two children.
The appointment was announced by Dale Erquiaga, outgoing state superintendent of public instruction, who is moving to the office of Gov. Brian Sandoval.
Ableser has a masters degree in counseling and a Ph.D. In justice and social inquiry from Arizona State University. He brings years of experience working with children and families affected by bullying and mental-health disorders, state officials said.
"With this appointment, the Department of Education is prepared to fully implement Nevada's anti-bullying bill, which was one of the most important pieces of legislation passed during this year's legislative session," State Superintendent Dale Erquiaga said in a statement.
