Littleton Public Schools Policy

Policy Code   JICDE Policy Name   Bullying Prevention and Education Adoption June 27, 2002 Revised             June 29, 2006

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 behavior which is verbal or written expression in any print or non-print media, or physical act or gesture, or a pattern of this behavior that is intended to cause distress upon one or more students in the school, on school grounds, in school vehicles, at a designated school bus stop, or at school activities or school sanctioned events. It also includes the use of verbal or physical coercion to obtain control over others or to be habitually cruel to others.

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 schools. The program shall be aimed toward accomplishing the following goals:

To send a clear message to students, staff, parents, and community members that bullying will not be tolerated.

To train staff and students in taking proactive steps to prevent bullying from occurring.

To implement procedures for immediate intervention, investigation, and appropriate consequences for students engaged in bullying behavior.

To initiate efforts to change the behavior of students engaged in bullying through approaches that address the bullying behavior, the role of the school community, and appropriate support for victims of bullying behavior.

To foster a productive partnership with parents and community members in order to help maintain a “bullying free” environment.

Legal Reference:  C.R.S. 22-32-109.1 (2)(c)(x)

Cross Reference:  JICDA, Student Code of Conduct

                           JK, Student Discipline

                           JKD/JKE, Suspension/Expulsion of Students