H.I.B. Legislation
Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying
H.I.B. is the LAW
Part #1 Any gesture, written, verbal or physical act, or electronic communication, whether a single incident OR a series of incidents.
Part #2 That is reasonably perceived as being MOTIVATED either by any actual OR perceived characteristic, such as race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression or a mental, physical or sensory disability, or by any other DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTIC.
Part #3 That takes place on school property, at any school-sponsored function, on a school bus or off school grounds that SUBSTANTIALLY DISRUPTS or interferes with the ORDERLY OPERATION of the school or the RIGHTS of other students.
Part #4 And that:
- A REASONABLE PERSON should know will have the effect of physically or emotionally HARMING a student or DAMAGING THE STUDENT’S PROPERTY; OR
- Has the effect of INSULTING or DEMEANING any student or group of students; OR
- Creates a HOSTILE EDUCATIONAL ENVIRONMENT for the student.
Investigation Process
- Report is made to the administration
- Parents of targeted student AND alleged offender(s) MUST be notified of the potential act of HIB
- Investigation begins--potential witnesses, targeted student and alleged offender(s) will be interviewed; digital evidence and/or security camera footage will be examined (if necessary)
- Investigation is complete--HIB decision will be made and consequences (such as detentions or suspensions) will be recommended for the students involved
- Parents of targeted student and alleged offender(s) will be notified of the outcome of the investigation (along with the Principal, Superintendent and the Board of Education)
- Letter will be sent home to parents to document the investigation and the decision that was made