Preventing Sexual Harassment In Our Schools

There are several forms of harassment…. u Harassment can be based on: Sex Race National Origin Disability Religion All are illegal and a violation of civil rights!

Sexual harassment is the most common form of harassment in schools.

Whats your responsibility? u As an employee of Rockingham County Public Schools, you have a duty to provide a learning environment that is free of sexual harassment. u As an employee you are obligated to foster a working environment that is free of sexual harassment.

What is sexual harassment? Any unwelcome behavior of a sexual nature, whether the behavior is written, verbal, or physical.

Verbal forms of sexual harassment may include…. u Sexual or gender based jokes or teasing u Words such as honey, sweetie or babe u Wolf whistles or other derogatory noises u Rumors about a persons sex life u Comments about a persons body u Derogatory comments based on gender

This may also include visual forms of sexual harassment such as…. u Obscene posters, cartoons, and pin-ups u Computer graphics and obscene messages on computer bulletin boards. u Offensive models, statues, and figurines u Inappropriate clothing

Physical forms of sexual harassment may include…. u Inappropriately touching another person u Grabbing and/or fondling u Rubbing up against a person u Messaging or stroking another person u Stalking

Sexual harassment can also result from….. u Staring u Physical gestures that have a sexual connotation u Suggestive looks and facial expressions that have sexual implications u Blocking the pathway of another to make a sexual advance.

What do we know about sexual harassment? Sexual harassment is most prevalent in (elementary, middle, or high) schools. (choose one) Answer: Middle School Where in the school environment does most sexual harassment occur? Answer: School Bus What percent of girls experience some form of sexual harassment during their K-12 education? Answer: 80%

What do we know about sexual harassment? (continued) A one-time comment, joke, or verbal innuendo does not constitute sexual harassment. Answer: True Verbal forms of sexual harassment are considered least offensive, but can become the basis for sexual harassment if comments are persistent. The number of sexual harassment claims by males is increasing. Answer: True I didnt mean anything by it is a valid defense to excuse offensive behavior. False It is the impact, not the intent, that is important.

What constitutes sexual harassment? u An act that is severe, persistent, or pervasive. u Limits a students ability to participate in, or benefit from, an educational program, or u Creates a hostile or abusive environment.

Who are the likely victims? Unattractive or unstylish girls Physically mature girls. Boys or girls who dont fit the Sterotypic mold for their gender

In schools sexual harassment is... u A Student Issue u A Employee Issue Anyone can be a victim or perpetrator of sexual harassment

A word of caution… u Sexual harassment behavior can be a career killer. u Even unsubstantiated allegations can be very damaging. u Dont take unnecessary risks!

How does sexual harassment issues show up in schools….. u Peer-to-peer sexual harassment among students. u Sexual harassment behavior between school staff members including administrators. u Inappropriate touching of students by teachers and staff members. u Inappropriate behavior of coaches in athletic programs.

If you witness any type of harassment do the following: u Take prompt action and stop the harassment. u Report all incidents to the appropriate school administrator. u Provide the names of all parties involved and any witnesses u Help document exactly what was said or done. Remember that liability begins when nothing is done!

RCPS Policy on Harassment... The Rockingham County School Division is committed to a learning/working environment free from sexual harassment and harassment based on race, national origin, disability or religion. The Rockingham County School Division prohibits sexual harassment and harassment based on a students or employees race, national origin, disability, or religion by students, school personnel or third parties participating in, observing or otherwise engaged in school sponsored activities. Policy Statement GBA-I

To verify participation in this training session visit this website: It is the policy of the Rockingham County School Board to comply with all applicable state and federal laws regarding non-discrimination in employment and educational programs and services. The Rockingham County Public Schools will not discriminate illegally on the basis of sex, race, religion, national origin, disability, or age as to employment or educational programs and activities.