News
Anti-bullying efforts credited with reducing violence in western Pennsylvania schools
Laws
Bullying/Harassment
H1067 (2008) requires each school to adopt or amend an existing policy on bullying and incorporate it into the school code of conduct. Bullying is defined as an intentional electronic, written, verbal or physical act or series of acts directed at another student or students which occurs in a school setting. The act is severe, persistent or pervasive and has the effect of substantially interfering with a students education, creating a threatening environment, or substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school. "School setting" is defined as the school, school grounds, in school vehicles, at a school bus stop, or any activity sponsored, supervised or sanctioned by the school.
The policy must delineate disciplinary consequences for bullying and may provide prevention, intervention and education programs. A school may define bullying in such a way as to encompass acts that occur outside of a school setting if they meet the definitions of bullying outlined in the statute. The policy must identify the appropriate school staff person to receive reports of incidents of alleged bullying and must be posted on the school's website and in every classroom, if possible.
Cyber Bullying
H1067 (2008) includes an "intentional electronic act" in its definition of bullying in the school setting and requires each school to adopt or amend an existing policy on bullying and incorporate it into the school code of conduct.
Hazing
No state policy addressing elementary or secondary schools.
Source: National Association of State Boards of Education
Last Updated: 4/6/2009
