Bullying/Harassment
RCW 28A.300.285 (2010) requires each school district to adopt or amend a policy that prohibits harassment, intimidation, or bullying of any student. The policy must incorporate the revised model policy. Harassment, intimidation or bullying" is defined as any electronic, written, verbal or physical act that results in the following: (1) Physically harms a student or damages their property, (2) Has the effect of substantially interfering with a student's education, (3) Is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating or threatening educational environment, or (4) Has the effect of substantially disrupting the operation of the school.
RCW 28A.300.285 (2010) requires each school district to designate one person in the district as the primary contact regarding the antiharassment, intimidation or bullying policy. The primary contact shall receive copies of all complaints, have responsibility for assuring the implementation of the policy and procedure, and serve as the priamry contact on the policy and procedures.
SB 5288 (2007) requires the state school directors association and the superintendent of public instruction to convene an advisory committee to develop a model policy prohibiting acts of harassment, intimidation or bullying that are conducted via electronic means by a student while on school grounds during the school day. It also requires the state school directors association and the advisory committee to develop sample educational materials on safe internet use and options for reporting bullying via electronic means.
RCW 28A.640.020 (1994) requires the superintendent of public instruction to develop criteria for sexual harassment policies. RCW 28A.600.480 (2002) prohibits in reprisal, retaliation or false accusation against a witness, victim or one with reliable information about an act of harassment, intimidation or bullying in the school environment. It also provides immunity (from a cause of action for failure to remedy the incident) to a school employee, student or volunteer who promptly reports an incident of harassment, intimidation or bullying.
Cyber Bullying
RCW 28A.300.285 (2002) requires each school district to adopt or amend a policy that prohibits harassment, intimidation, or bullying of any student. The definition of "harassment, intimidation or bullying" includes an electronic act that (1) Physically harms a student or damages their property, (2) Has the effect of substantially interfering with a student's education, (3) Is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating or threatening educational environment, or (4) Has the effect of substantially disrupting the operation of the school.
Hazing
No state policy addressing elementary or secondary schools.
Source: National Association of State Boards of Education
Last Updated: 10/6/2010
