Student asks board to classify violent verbal threats as physical aggression under district HIB policy

A Joyce Junior High student formally proposed that the Shelton School District revise its harassment, intimidation and bullying (HIB) policy to treat explicit verbal threats such as “I’m going to kill you” as forms of physical aggression to ensure strict consequences and reporting.

Kaylee Allen presented the proposed amendments during the student representative segment. Allen cited state law while urging changes: “Washington law already provides clear definitions for harassment and threats that should be reflected in district policies. RCW 28 8 dot 300 dot 2 8 5 defines harassment intimidation or bullying otherwise known as H. I. B. ... RCW 9 a dot 4 6 dot 0 2 0 which is criminal harassment states that a person is guilty of harassment if they knowingly threatened to cause bodily injury to another person placing them in reasonable fear that the threat will be carried out.”

Allen recommended revising the district’s definition of physical aggression, updating the HIB reporting form, implementing staff training and applying stronger consequences to curb repeat offenses. “If violating HIV policies does not result in strict and consistent consequences It fosters a culture where repeat offenders escalate their behavior over time making schools increasingly unsafe,” Allen said.

Why it matters: The student’s request asks the board to align district policy with statutory definitions and to adopt clearer reporting and enforcement steps. The board did not take immediate action during the meeting; the request was presented as a formal proposal for board consideration.

Authorities: During the comment Allen cited RCW provisions by number; the district may review the cited statutes and its HIB policy if it moves this item forward for formal policy revision or committee review.