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Board reviews bullying and cyberbullying policy, asks about limits on disciplining off-campus conduct
Summary
The Steelton-Highspire School District board reviewed Policy 249 and discussed the district’s limited authority to discipline off-campus cyberbullying; administration said the district must generally refer such incidents to local police unless school-owned devices are involved.
The Steelton-Highspire School District board reviewed Policy 249, the district’s bullying and cyberbullying policy, and heard from administration that the policy must be submitted annually and was last reviewed in 2022. A board member asked whether the district can discipline students for cyberbullying that happens off campus; administration said options are limited.
Byron, speaking for administration, told the board that "All we can do is refer to the local police" when cyberbullying occurs off school grounds and is not traceable to district-owned equipment. Board members pressed staff on the difference in authority when a school-owned device is used versus personal devices used at home.
Board members and staff discussed next steps for the annual submission and the timing of required updates. The administration recommended the board review the attached policy and proceed with the required submission to the state once updates tied to the 2022 review cycle are confirmed.
