By MICHELLE RINDELS
Associated Press
LAS VEGAS (AP) - Officials say they've filled about 85 percent of the new school social worker jobs approved as part of an effort to curb bullying in Nevada.
The Nevada Department of Education says 139 new social workers have been hired, and about 25 more positions need to be filled.
Nevada lawmakers approved about $6 million this school year to pay for the social workers, and may provide an additional $11 million next school year.
Gov. Brian Sandoval spearheaded the effort to get social workers in schools and strengthen anti-bullying laws after the suicide of a 13-year-old Las Vegas girl.
Schools deemed to have the worst climate based on student surveys and staff testimony are assigned one to four social workers to lead anti-bullying efforts and counsel students.
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