Prohibition of Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying

Arlington Public Schools is committed to a safe and civil educational environment for all students, employees, parents/legal guardians, volunteers, and community members, that is free from harassment, intimidation, or bullying. “Harassment, intimidation, or bullying” means any intentional act, which may be expressed in written, graphic, verbal, electronically transmitted or physical form, including but not limited to one shown to be motivated by race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sex, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, marital status, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, or other distinguishing characteristics, that:

• Physically harms a student or damages the student’s property;
• Has the effect of substantially interfering with a student’s education;
• Is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating or threatening educational environment; or
• Has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school.

Nothing in this section requires the affected student to actually possess a characteristic that is a basis for the harassment, intimidation, or bullying. “Other distinguishing characteristics” can include, but are not limited to, physical appearance, clothing or other apparel, socio-economic status and weight.

“Intentional acts” refers to the individual’s choice to engage in the act rather than the ultimate impact of the action(s).

Policy
Procedure
Reporting of Harassment, Intimidation, or Bullying (Form 3207F1)

SafeSchools Tipline