Violent crime up in schools

By: Phil Gregory

New Jersey Attorney General Anne Milgram says an overwhelming number of hate crimes and bias incidents occur in schools. Some high school students in the state are trying to combat the problem.

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At a Diversity Summit at Rider University, students used words, dance and song to encourage young people to respect cultural differences and individual rights.

Stephanie Encarnacion participates in the COW Project of Washington Township in Gloucester County. COW stands for Change Our World and she says the message is connecting with students.

Encarnacion: They'll see us and they see that we want to make the change and they can see that it is possible. There are people out there with the same problems as you and are willing to help and speak with you and work with you.

Students at the summit said they often see bullying and racism in their schools. But they say communication among different ethnic groups can help increase understanding and resolve problems.