Purpose
The South Fayette Township School District is committed to providing a district climate that encourages inclusion by creating a safe, positive learning environment for all students. We recognize that bullying creates an atmosphere of fear and intimidation, detracts from the safe environment necessary for student learning, and may lead to more serious violence. Therefore, bullying of any kind will not be tolerated.
Definitions
Bullying is defined as an intentional electronic, written, verbal or physical act or series of acts which occurs in a school setting, that (a) are directed at another student or students; (b) are severe, persistent or pervasive; and (c) have the effect of (i) substantially interfering with the student's education (ii) creating a threatening environment and/or (iii) substantially disturbing the orderly operation of the school.[1]
Bullying includes, but is not limited to, physical intimidation or assault; extortion; oral or written threats; malicious teasing, putdowns; social isolation or name calling; threatening looks, gestures, or actions; cruel rumors; and false accusations, including any of the foregoing via electronic communications such as the internet, email, text messaging, or other methods. Bullying, as defined in this policy, includes cyberbullying.
School setting means in the school, on school grounds, in school vehicles, at a designated bus stop, or at any activity sponsored, supervised or sanctioned by the district, or any other time that students are subject to the jurisdiction of the district.[1]
Authority
The Board prohibits all forms of bullying by district students and staff.[1]
The Board encourages students who have been bullied to promptly report such incidents to the building principal or designee.
The Board directs that complaints of bullying shall be investigated promptly, and corrective action shall be taken when allegations are verified. Confidentiality of all parties shall be maintained, consistent with the district’s legal and investigative obligations. No reprisals or retaliation shall occur as a result of good faith reports of bullying.
Delegation of Responsibility
Each student shall be responsible to respect the rights of others and to ensure an atmosphere free from bullying.
The Superintendent or designee shall develop administrative regulations to implement this policy.
The Superintendent or designee shall ensure that this policy and administrative regulations are reviewed annually with students.[1]
The Superintendent or designee, in cooperation with other appropriate administrators, shall review this policy every three (3) years and recommend necessary revisions to the Board.[1]
Guidelines
Infraction of Bullying/Cyberbullying
Bullying is defined as an intentional electronic written, verbal or physical act or series of acts which occurs in a school setting, that (a) are directed at another student or students; (b) are severe, persistent or pervasive; and (c) have the effect of (i) substantially interfering with the student's education (ii) creating a threatening environment and/or (iii) substantially disturbing the orderly operation of a school.
Bullying includes, but is not limited to, physical intimidation or assault; extortion; oral or written threats; malicious teasing, putdowns, social isolation or name calling; threatening looks, gestures, or actions; cruel rumors, and false accusations, including any of the foregoing via electronic communications such as the internet, email, text messaging, or other methods.
Bullying, as defined in this policy, includes cyberbullying.
Disciplinary Consequence
Appropriate discipline will be implemented per the respective school handbook.
Restorative/Reconciliation
Support may include, but is not limited to, mediation (if agreed upon by all parties), teacher-student-parent meetings, interactions with a school counselor/social worker, communication with teachers as needed, referrals to the Student Assistance Program, restorative lessons and service-oriented opportunities.
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