Embedded Files
Student Safety & Awareness
At PA Virtual Charter School, we believe every student has the right to feel safe, respected, and protected from harassment or abuse.
We follow Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, which prohibits discrimination and harassment based on sex. In addition to staff training, we provide age-appropriate lessons for students and resources for families to help prevent sexual harassment and misconduct.
Below, you’ll find student-friendly information and free online resources for each grade level.
Elementary Students (Grades K–5)
When you are young, it’s important to know: your body belongs to YOU.
✅ Learn the correct names for your body parts. Private parts are the areas covered by your swimsuit.
✅ No one should touch your private parts, and you should not be asked to touch anyone else’s.
The only exception is when a parent/caregiver is helping you stay clean, or a doctor is checking your health with a trusted adult present.
✅ Body secrets are NOT okay. If someone tells you to keep a secret about touching, you should always tell a grown-up you trust. You will not be in trouble for telling.
✅ No one should take pictures of your private parts. If someone tries, tell an adult right away.
✅ It’s okay to say NO if someone makes you feel scared, confused, or uncomfortable—even if they are older or someone you know.
✅ Always tell a trusted adult if something feels wrong. Parents, teachers, counselors, or another safe grown-up are here to listen and help you.
Remember: If someone hurts or scares you, it is NOT your fault. There are always adults who will help.
📚 Helpful Resources for Families with Young Children:
· KidSmartz Safety Resources (Elementary)
· Stop It Now! Child Safety Skills for All Ages
Middle School Students (Grades 6–8)
As you grow, it’s important to understand your right to feel safe and respected—at school, at home, and online.
✅ Your body belongs to you. No one has the right to touch your private parts or ask you to touch theirs.
✅ Unsafe touch doesn’t always hurt. Sometimes it can feel confusing or even “okay,” but if it’s a secret or makes you uncomfortable, it’s still wrong.
✅ No one should pressure you to keep secrets about touching, taking pictures, or anything that feels wrong.
✅ Online safety matters. If someone asks you for private pictures or sends you images that make you uncomfortable, tell a trusted adult immediately.
✅ It’s okay to say NO or leave a situation if you feel unsafe—even if the person is a peer or an adult you know.
✅ If something happens, tell a trusted adult right away. You will never get in trouble for asking for help.
Remember: It’s NEVER your fault if someone crosses your boundaries.
📚 Helpful Resources for Tweens & Families:
High School Students (Grades 9–12)
In high school, it’s essential to understand consent, personal boundaries, and your rights under Title IX.
✅ Consent is required in all situations. Consent means freely agreeing to something without pressure, fear, or manipulation. If someone doesn’t—or can’t—give consent, it’s harassment or abuse.
✅ Unwanted touching, comments, or online messages are NOT okay. Harassment can be:
Physical (touching, grabbing)
Verbal (sexual jokes, name-calling)
Online (inappropriate messages, sharing images without permission)
✅ Taking, sending, or sharing explicit pictures of anyone under 18 is illegal, even if both people agree.
✅ Sexual harassment can happen with peers or adults. It can include pressure for sexual favors, spreading rumors, or sending explicit images.
✅ You have the right to report harassment or assault. PA Virtual Charter School will investigate reports and protect you from retaliation.
✅ Online safety is critical. Think before you share personal images or information. If someone pressures you online, you can block, report, and tell an adult.
Remember: If something feels wrong or unsafe, trust your instincts. Help is available.
📚 Helpful Resources for Teens & Families:
📞 How to Get Help
Talk to a trusted adult. This could be a parent, guardian, teacher, or school counselor.
Contact the PA Virtual Charter School Title IX Coordinator:
Jason Fitzpatrick- jfitzpatrick@pavcs.us or 484-680-7729
Call the Pennsylvania ChildLine Abuse Hotline at 1-800-932-0313 if you are in immediate danger or need help.
Call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) for confidential 24/7 support.
You will never get in trouble for asking for help. We are here to listen and protect you.
🖥️ Digital Learning Modules for Families & Students
· KidSmartz Safety Resources (Elementary)
· Netsmart Internet Safety Programs (Middle/High School)
· Stop It Now! Child Safety Skills for All Ages
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