Sexual Harassment - Not a Cool Thing!

There are several forms of harassment…. u Harassment can be based on: Sex Race National Origin Disability Religion All are illegal and a violation of civil rights!

Sexual harassment is the most common form of harassment in schools.

Why? u It violates school rules. u Its a violation of civil law. u Its demeaning and disrespectful of others. Its definitely not cool!

So, what is sexual harassment? Sexual harassment is any unwelcomed or unwanted sexual pressure or verbal, visual, or physical contact of a sexual nature. It may happen once or many times.

Verbal forms of sexual harassment may include…. u Sexual or gender based jokes or teasing u Words such as honey, sweetie or babe u Wolf whistles or other derogatory noises u Rumors about a persons sex life u Comments about a persons body u Derogatory comments based on gender

This may also include visual forms of sexual harassment such as…. u Obscene posters, cartoons, and pin-ups u Computer graphics and obscene messages on computer bulletin boards u Offensive models, statues, and figurines u Inappropriate clothing

Physical forms of sexual harassment may include… u Inappropriately touching another person u Grabbing and/or fondling u Rubbing up against a person u Messaging or stroking another person u Stalking

Sexual harassment can also result from….. u Staring u Physical gestures that have a sexual connotation u Suggestive looks and facial expressions that have sexual implications u Blocking the pathway of another to make a sexual advance

If I ignore sexual harassment it will go away. (True or False) Answer: No. If harassment is ignored it may get worse because the harasser may think that its okay. Can flirting be harassment? Answer: It can be if the recipient does not appreciate it, or if it makes them feel uncomfortable or badly.. Its okay to tell dirty jokes, isnt it? Answer: No. While many of your friends may find your jokes funny, it they offend anyone you can be in trouble. What should you do?

What do we know about sexual harassment? A one-time comment, joke, or verbal innuendo does not constitute sexual harassment. Answer: True. Verbal forms of sexual harassment are considered least offensive, but this can become the basis for sexual harassment if comments are persistent. The number of sexual harassment claims by males is increasing. Answer: True I didnt mean anything by it is a valid defense to excuse offensive behavior. Answer: False. It is the impact, not the intent, that is important.

Who are the likely victims? Unattractive or unstylish girls Physically mature girls. Boys or girls who dont fit the Sterotypic mold for their gender

In schools sexual harassment is... u A Student Issue u An Issue With Adults Don t tolerate sexual harassment, even from adults!

A word of caution… u Sexual harassment will result in severe discipline measures at school. u Beyond the school discipline, in severe cases you and/or your parents may be subject to a civil suit from the victim. u Dont take unnecessary risks! Its not cool!

If you witness any type of harassment do the following: u Tell the harasser to stop! u Report all incidents to the appropriate school administrator. u Provide the names of all parties involved and any witnesses u Help document exactly what was said or done. Remember, not doing anything may make the harassment worse!

RCPS Policy on Harassment... The Rockingham County School Division is committed to a learning/working environment free from sexual harassment and harassment based on race, national origin, disability or religion. The Rockingham County School Division prohibits sexual harassment and harassment based on a students or employees race, national origin, disability, or religion by students, school personnel or third parties participating in, observing or otherwise engaged in school sponsored activities. Policy Statement GBA-I

To verify participation in this training session click here.here. It is the policy of the Rockingham County School Board to comply with all applicable state and federal laws regarding non-discrimination in employment and educational programs and services. The Rockingham County Public Schools will not discriminate illegally on the basis of sex, race, religion, national origin, disability, or age as to employment or educational programs and activities.