Colorado
Association of School Boards
Sample Policy on Bullying Prevention and Education
NOTE: Colorado school
districts are required by law to adopt a policy on this
subject and the law contains some specific direction
as to the policy content or language. This sample policy
contains the content/language that CASB believes best
meets the intent of the law. However, the district should
consult with its own legal counsel to determine appropriate
language that meets local circumstances and needs. Districts
have discretion to determine the specifics of bullying
prevention and education programs.
Bullying Prevention and Education
The Board of Education supports a secure school climate,
conducive to teaching and learning that is free from
threat, harassment and any type of bullying behavior.
The purpose of this policy is to promote consistency
of approach and to help create a climate in which all
types of bullying are regarded as unacceptable.
Bullying is defined as any written or verbal expression,
physical act or gesture, or a pattern thereof, that
is intended to cause distress upon one or more students
in the school environment. For purposes of this policy,
the school environment includes school buildings, grounds,
vehicles, bus stops and all school-sponsored activities
and events.
A student who engages in any act of bullying is subject
to appropriate disciplinary action including suspension,
expulsion and/or referral to law enforcement authorities.
The severity and pattern, if any, of the bullying behavior
shall be taken into consideration when disciplinary
decisions are made.
The Superintendent shall develop a comprehensive program
to address bullying at all school levels. The program
shall be aimed toward accomplishing the following goals:
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To send a clear message to students,
staff, parents and community members that bullying
will not be tolerated.
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To train staff and students in taking
pro-active steps to prevent bullying from occurring.
-
To implement procedures for immediate
intervention, investigation, and confrontation of
students engaged in bullying behavior.
-
To initiate efforts to change the
behavior of students engaged in bullying behaviors
through re-education on acceptable behavior, discussions,
counseling, and appropriate negative consequences.
-
To foster a productive partnership
with parents and community members in order to help
maintain a bully-free environment.
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To support victims of bullying by
means of individual and peer counseling.
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To help develop peer support networks,
social skills and confidence for all students.
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To recognize and praise positive,
supportive behaviors of students toward one another
on a regular basis.
(Adoption date)
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