Educators Sued Over Bullying
May 17, 2011
What should a school employee do to help fight this national crisis and avoid being sued?
- Make sure your school district has a strong anti-bullying and harassment policy in place, with clear guidance on how and to whom instances of bullying or harassment are to be reported.
- Insist that your school district educate students about peer harassment.
- Ask your school district to provide in-service training for teachers, education support professionals and other employees about how to spot bullying, how to respond, and to whom to report it, usually the Title IX co-coordinator.
- Even if the student doesn’t want you to report the incident(s) to the administration, you still have a legal obligation to do so. And always put it in writing and keep a copy.
- If you witness a bullying incident, intervene immediately. Tell the harasser that his or her behavior is not acceptable.
- Finally, model good behavior. Remember, you are a role model to your students.
The Department of Education (ED) has taken a strong stand against bullying and harassment in schools. Last October, ED sent a comprehensive “Dear Colleague” letter to schools explaining their legal obligation under federal law to protect students from student-on-student harassment. The guidance provides examples and describes how schools should respond.
NEA's Human and Civil Rights department offers training to members through the National Bullying & Sexual Harassment Prevention and Intervention Program. This training is presented to affiliates and members. You can arrange for a presentation by contacting Joann Morris.
NEA has also launched a new campaign: “Bully Free: It Starts with Me,” which encourages members to be a caring adult who acts on behalf of bullied students.