Hate Speech

Hate Speech

Abusive, threatening, insulting or intimidating speech, writing or symbols directed or targeted at another individual or group of individuals which (1) infringes on their right to be secure or left alone at school; and, (2) which expresses prejudice against a particular group motivated by hostility towards the other individual’s real or perceived characteristics, including, but not limited to, race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, sex, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

Complaints and reports of harassment, discrimination, bullying, and hate-motivated behavior should be reported to the school administration team (e.g. principal, assistant principal) at each school site, who are responsible for investigating and resolving such complaints, and coordinating with the District’s Uniform Complaint Procedures compliance officers. It is the responsibility of the school site administration to promptly and appropriately respond to verbal and written complaints.

Certain symbols or slur words will be interpreted to be communicating a message of hate, intolerance, and discrimination against an individual of a protected class. Discipline will be enforced unless other means of correction would address the issue and after a thorough investigation has taken place to analyze the student’s intent and viewpoint on a case-by-case basis. All matters regarding hate speech, intolerance, and/or discrimination will be referred to the Office of Equity and Student Services.