RCPS complies with School Board Policy JFHA/GBA of the Virginia School Board Association and Title IX of the Education Amendment of 1972 which protects people from discrimination based on sex. RCPS wishes to offer students educational programs and activities in a nondiscriminatory manner free of discrimination based on sex, including sexual orientation and gender identity. Under Title IX, discrimination on the basis of sex can include sexual harassment or sexual violence. In an effort to abide by the law and protect the rights of all students and staff members, RCPS conducts Sexual Harassment training for all employees annually.
Historically, RCPS has had 5 to 6 Title IX Reports of Harassment a year in which students have allegedly violated the policy. RCPS feels this may be happening due to a lack of understanding on the part of students and because of that, feels that training students on the prohibition of sexual harassment is most appropriate at this time. Therefore, all Radford High School students will participate in Sexual Harassment training in late January, 2024.
The training that will be used with students can be found at below title, What is Sexual Harassment. We are hopeful that the training will not only inform our students about relational practices that are appropriate and those that are not, but will also empower them to speak up when they are feeling uncomfortable with unwanted sexual attention.
If you have questions about the training please reach out to Melissa McDaniel, at mmcdaniel@rcps.org or 540-731-3647, ext. 3220.
If you would rather your child not participate in the training, please contact an RHS building administrator and/or an RHS school counselor at 540-731-3649.
Articles:
Sexual Harassment at School: https://www.equalrights.org/legal-help/know-your-rights/sexual-harassment-at-school/
The Title IX Final Rule requires schools to offer free supportive measures to alleged victims of sexual harassment. These measures are intended to restore or preserve equal access to education, protect student safety and deter further sexual harassment. Examples of supportive measurements may include the following:
No-contact orders
Class changes offered
Access to a health and mental health services
Academic Support
Extension on assignments during the investigation
Rescheduling of tests, quizzes, assignments, benchmarks
Access to School Counselor