Thorner - BCSD Static Server - Bakersfield City School District

situation involving harassment, bullying, or threats, a complaint may be filed with the Superintendent or designee whoshall determine which complaint procedure is appropriate.The principal or designee is expected to provide an annual notice (e.g., along with a review of the district’s disciplinecode), in which harassment, bullying, and threats are defined, reporting procedures are reviewed, and where studentsare encouraged to treat everyone in the school community fairly and with respect.Hate-Motivated BehaviorThe board has also affirmed the right of every student to be protected from hate-motivated behavior or other types ofbias-motivated misconduct. It is the intent of the board to promote harmonious relationships that enable students togain a true understanding of the civil rights and social responsibilities of people in our interdependent society.Students are expected to acknowledge diversity and to help build community by practicing civility, respect, andhospitality.Regardless of the communication form (e.g., verbal, nonverbal, electronic), behavior that degrades an individual on thebasis of his/her race, ethnicity, culture, heritage, gender, sexual orientation, physical/mental attributes, or religiousbeliefs or practices shall not be tolerated.Any student who feels that he/she is a victim of hate-motivated behavior shall immediately contact the principal ordesignee. An investigation concerning the allegation and an appropriate response(s) will be provided by the principalor designee. If the student reporting the behavior believes that the situation has not been remedied by the principal ordesignee, he/she may file a complaint in accordance with district complaint procedures.Staff who receive notice of hate-motivated behavior or personally observe such behavior shall notify the principal,Superintendent or designee, and law enforcement, as appropriate. Students demonstrating hate-motivated behaviorshall be subject to discipline in accordance with Board policy and administrative regulation. Consequences should bedesigned to help prevent the repetition of hateful, bias acts and change both the behavior and attitude of the offender.Students exhibiting hate-motivated behavior may be referred for assistance and/or provided with counseling or otherappropriate interventions.An investigation into the potential seriousness of a student’s behavior shall follow any hate-motivated behavior. Theinvestigation should help determine whether the student has the interest, motive, and means to mount an attack orsubsequent attack. When the initial investigation identifies the potential for harm, a structured threat assessment willbe initiated and appropriate risk management actions taken to help ensure the safety of persons potentially in harm’sway.Assistance such as counseling and guidance, as necessary, will be provided to those students who are the victims ofhate-motivated behavior.The Superintendent or designee shall encourage: (a) the provision of appropriate training to recognize hate-motivatedbehavior and methods for handling such behavior in appropriate ways;(b) age-appropriate instruction to help promote understanding of and respect for human rights and diversity; and (c) arespectful, safe environment for all students.At the beginning of each school year, students and staff shall receive information concerning the district's policy onhate-motivated behavior.References: Board Policy 300.27, 601.12, 601.13