The Dignity Act was signed into law on September 13, 2010 and took effect on July 1, 2012. "New York State's Dignity for All Students Act seeks to provide the State's public elementary and secondary school students with a safe and supportive environment free from discrimination, intimidation, taunting, harassment, and bullying on school property, a school bus and/or at a school function. The Dignity Act also amended Section 801-a of New York State Education Law regarding instruction in civility, citizenship, and character education by expanding the concepts of tolerance, respect for others and dignity to include: an awareness and sensitivity in the relations of people, including but not limited to actual or perceived race, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, mental or physical abilities, sexual orientation, gender identity, and sex." (NYSED.gov)
In accordance with NYS Education Law, the Board of Education has adopted Policy 7550, Dignity For All Students, to provide a framework of support to continue to maintain a culture and climate of mutual respect in our schools. The District Code of Conduct provides expectations for students, staff and visitors as they work and/or volunteer in our schools.
In each school, a Dignity For All Students (DASA) Coordinator is thoroughly trained to handle human relations in the areas of race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender (identity or expression) and sex. The DASA coordinators are available to assist families with any concerns. Please go to the incident reporting page on this site to see the name and contact information for the DASA coordinator for your child's school building.