School Bullying and Harassment

Safe School Climate Act

• The school must have a policy on protecting students.
• IMPORTANT: To trigger your rights, you MUST inform the correct person at the school IN WRITING. Read your school's policy to be sure you are sending the notice to the right person. To find the policy, go to your school district’s website.
• A person cannot harass others.
• A person cannot intimidate others.
• A person cannot bully others.
• A person cannot retaliate or falsely accuse a victim, witness, or informant.
• School employees, students, volunteers, and anyone with information must report incidents.

What Will the School Do?

The school will likely set up a meeting to (1) hear your concerns and (2) develop a plan.

The School Must Call Law Enforcement

School officials must call law enforcement immediately if they know that someone has done, or is going to do, something at school that injures someone or damages property. Law enforcement officers have discretion and may or may not respond the way you want.

What Can You Do if the School Does Not Call Law Enforcement?

• Try to file charges at the law enforcement department.
• You can report the incident to the School Board in writing or in person at a board meeting.
• You can look for an attorney to get the school to report the incident to law enforcement.
• If an attorney must file papers in court, you may be able to get back your attorney fees and court costs.

Helpful Tips

• Report the problem in writing to your school designee, who is listed in your school handbook or the district policy. Be sure to be specific in your details.
• If the problem continues, report the issue in writing to the same person but include the superintendent.
• If the issue rises to the level of criminal involvement, you may also want to contact the police directly.
• Each time an event occurs, or your child says they are scared to go to school/class, inform the school immediately.

There are 4 Ways to Deal With a Bully

• Code of Conduct
• Safe School Climate Law
• Mandatory reporting of crimes
• Civil lawsuits (if you have damages or the school refuses to follow the laws)