GBNAA/JFCFA: Cyberbullying

Code: GBNAA/JFCFA

Adopted: 3/13/13

The Board, in its commitment to providing a positive and productive learning and working environment, will consult with parents/guardians, employees, volunteers, students, administrators and community representatives in developing this policy in compliance with applicable Oregon Revised Statutes.  Any form of harassment using electronic devices, commonly known as “cyberbullying,” by students, staff or third parties is prohibited and will not be tolerated in the district.  “Cyberbullying” is the use of any electronic communication device to convey a message in any form (text, image, audio or video) that defames, intimidates, harasses or is otherwise intended to harm, insult or humiliate another in a deliberate, repeated or hostile and unwanted manner under a person’s true or false identity.  In addition, any communication of this form which substantially disrupts or prevents a safe and positive educational or working environment may also be considered cyberbullying.  Students and staff will refrain from using personal communication devices or district property to harass or stalk another.

The district will take any report of cyberbullying seriously and will investigate credible reports promptly. Students or volunteers are encouraged to report an incident immediately to a teacher or principal, who will take appropriate action.  Students or volunteers who make a report are expected, but not required, to preserve evidence of cyberbullying.  For example, a student may save or bring a copy of an email, text message, picture or other electronic transmission that the student believes was intended harm, insult or humiliate.  Students or volunteers may report cyberbullying anonymously.  Remedial action shall not be based solely on an anonymous report.

Failure of an employee to report an act of cyberbullying to his or her immediate supervisor may be subject to remedial action, up to and including dismissal.

Students whose behavior is found to be in violation of this policy will be subject to loss of privileges, discipline, up to and including expulsion.  Staff whose behavior is found to be in violation of this policy will be subject to discipline, up to and including dismissal.  Third parties whose behavior is found to be in violation of this policy will be subject to appropriate sanctions as determined and imposed by the superintendent or Board.  The district may also report individuals to law enforcement if necessary.

The district shall incorporate into existing training programs for students and staff information related to cyberbullying and the prevention of, and the appropriate response to acts of cyberbullying.

END OF POLICY

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