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:

  1. A REASONABLE PERSON should know will have the effect of physically or emotionally HARMING a student or DAMAGING THE STUDENT’S PROPERTY; OR
  2. Has the effect of INSULTING or DEMEANING any student or group of students; OR
  3. Creates a HOSTILE EDUCATIONAL ENVIRONMENT for the student.

Investigation Process

  1. Report is made to the administration
  2. Parents of targeted student AND alleged offender(s) MUST be notified of the potential act of HIB
  3. 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)
  4. Investigation is complete--HIB decision will be made and consequences (such as detentions or suspensions) will be recommended for the students involved
  5. 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)
  6. Letter will be sent home to parents to document the investigation and the decision that was made