PUBLIC ACT An Act Concerning the Strengthening of School Bullying Laws (Effective July 1, 2011)

Bullying – No Monkey Business Click for the Movie

Key Elements of the Definition  Bullying: The repeated use by one or more students of a written, verbal, or electronic communication, such as cyber-bullying, or a physical act or gesture directed at a another student in the same district that:  A. Causes physical or emotional harm to victim or the property of the victim, or  B. Places the student in reasonable fear of harm to himself or herself, or of damage to his or her property, or  C. Creates a hostile environment at school, or  D. Infringes on the rights of the student at school, or  E. Substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of a school.

Bullying now Includes… Cyber-bullying – acts carried out through mobile electronic devices, the Internet, and cell phones Expansion of jurisdiction to school sponsored or school related activities on or off school grounds: at a school bus stop; on any vehicle that the RSD 10 BOE owns, uses, or leases, or through an electronic device the BOE owns, leases, or uses.

The Reporters All teachers, substitute teachers, school administrators, school superintendent, guidance counselors, psychologists, social workers, nurses, physicians, school paraprofessionals, or coaches. Also includes any other individual who, in the performance of his or her duties, has regular contact with students and who provides services to, or on behalf of students, pursuant to a contract with the local or regional board of education. (e.g., cafeteria workers, bus drivers, custodians)

What are we responsible for? All school employees who witness acts of possible bullying or receive reports of suspected bullying are required to: notify the Safe School Climate Specialist within one school day after receiving a report of an act of bullying; AND file a written report no later than two school days after making their oral report.

District Level Responsibilities District Level – Safe School Climate Coordinator 1). Facilitates District School Climate Committee 2). Reports data and survey results to CSDE

Building Level Responsibilities Building Level -Safe School Climate Specialist 1). Assistant Principals are responsible for investigating all reports 2). Facilitates building level Safe School Climate Committee -In place by One parent of a school student must be on the committee 3). Student Surveys - Every two years -Assesses school climate through surveys disseminated by CSDE in collaboration with CAS

Staff Responsibilities Report to your Safe School Climate Specialist (assistant principal) any incidents of concern either orally or in writing. If reported orally, complete the written report on the incident form found Take note of minor issues Use “mean” as opposed to bullying – most people assume that when the word bullying is used, it is a verified act. An investigation is the way to verify.

IF YOU SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING!

Questions ?