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Pennridge SD reviews updated bullying and cyberbullying policy; board debates 'may' versus 'shall' and reporting access
Summary
On first reading, the committee reviewed PSBA-recommended updates to the district’s bullying/cyberbullying policy, discussed whether prevention programs should be mandatory ('shall') or optional ('may'), and asked staff to simplify online reporting and link administrative regulations to discipline policy.
The policy committee reviewed proposed updates to the district’s bullying and cyberbullying policy and discussed two central issues: whether the district 'may' or 'shall' implement bullying prevention and intervention programs, and how to make reporting accessible for students and families.
Policy staff said the draft follows PSBA recommendations and highlighted two items for board discussion: the 'may' versus 'shall' language (which determines whether the district is required to develop, implement and evaluate prevention programs) and an expanded list of recommended administrative response options for alleged violations. Several board members advocated for 'shall' to make prevention and intervention efforts consistent and expected. Staff also emphasized that the seven listed response options are choices available to administrators and do not mandate a single response in every case.
Board members raised accessibility concerns about the posted reporting form, which they described as lengthy; suggestions included a fillable PDF or a simplified landing form so students without printers or home support can submit reports electronically. Policy staff said reports can be submitted verbally – staff will complete the form on behalf of those who prefer – and that an anonymous portal exists to initiate investigations in cases where students or families fear reprisal. The committee discussed linking the draft policy to administrative regulations and the district’s discipline policy (policy 2‑18) so consequences and restorative supports are coherent across documents.
Members requested updated historical discipline data to understand trends and asked staff to ensure ARs are accessible and clearly referenced in policy documents. The committee set further review of policy 2‑18 for the spring.
