District reports 29 HIB investigations Sept.–Dec. 2024; interventions ranged from counseling to suspension

Superintendent Kent Bania presented the district's biannual HIB (harassment, intimidation and bullying) report covering September through December 2024, summarizing investigations, confirmed incidents, motivations and interventions.

Bania told the board the district conducted 29 HIB investigations during the reporting window. At the elementary level there were 10 investigations with three confirmed HIB findings (the speaker identified locations tied to the confirmed cases). At John H. Walker Middle School there were 13 investigations with seven confirmed HIB findings; reported motivations included race, color, religion and national origin. At Nutley High School there were six investigations with two confirmed incidents; motivations reported included gender and gender identity and sexual orientation.

When HIB was confirmed or conduct violations were found, the district said responses included disciplinary measures (detention, suspension, probation or social probation), counseling or referrals to outside providers, reflective assignments, schedule changes, increased staff monitoring and parent/administrator conferences. The district also described prevention efforts: staff HIB training, curriculum‑embedded programs (e.g., K‑5 Caring Communities, grades 6‑12 RULER and LEAD), spirit or character weeks, advisory lessons and partnerships with the health department on inclusive initiatives. The superintendent thanked the district's anti‑bullying coordinator and building specialists and noted HIB resources remain available on the district website.