Board tables rewrite of bullying and harassment policy for more precise language

The policy committee voted to table proposed changes to the district’s bullying and harassment policy, item 43.29.73.11, until the August meeting so legal staff can revise language to be both inclusive and aligned with federal and state obligations.

Committee members said they want the policy’s opening language to make clear that bullying and harassment in any form are prohibited, regardless of whether the target is a federally protected class. The draft under review contained detailed references to protected characteristics and to Title IX language; some members said the policy should restate that bullying of any student is unacceptable while retaining cross-references to federal and state law.

Mr. Blanchard and Dr. Barnes noted that federal and state law already impose specific obligations for protected classes and Title IX matters, and that including the legal lists in the policy helps the district comply. Mr. Blanchard told the board that NCSBA guidance had not required insertion of the word “biological,” and several members agreed that the term “sex” or similar statutory phrasing is sufficient.

Board member Judy Justice moved to remove the word “biological” from the draft, but after discussion the committee agreed to table the policy so legal staff can prepare a revised draft that includes a clear, general prohibition against bullying and cross-references the relevant federal and state protections. The committee set the item for the August meeting and asked staff to present revised text that emphasizes an across-the-board prohibition while remaining aligned with legal cross-references.

No substantive policy was adopted at the July meeting; the item will return in August with the rewritten language.