The Massachusetts Joint Committee on Education has been weighing nearly a dozen bills that address bullying, but House Bill 483 is the only one which has gained wide support.
The bill would require the state to develop a model policy addressing all types of bullying, whether it occurs in schoolyards or via cell phones. Local schools, in turn, would have to document all incidents and discipline for review by the state.
Most states have anti-bullying laws in place. To see a map and view laws by state, click here.
Even if your state currently has no anti-bullying legislation in place, it is wise for all school districts to implement a bullying policy. Make sure that your policy addresses the various types of bullying. Cyberbullying and bullying via cell phones is on the rise and should be addressed in your policy.
Make sure that all students, staff and volunteers are made aware of your bullying policy. You can include your policy in employee and student handbooks as well as post it to your district website for easy viewing.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
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