The Board of Education is committed to safeguarding the right of all students within the school district to learn in an environment that is free from all forms of sexual harassment. The Board recognizes that sexual harassment of students can originate from a person of either sex against a person of the opposite or same sex, and from peers as well as employees, board members or any individual who forseeably might come in contact with students on school grounds or at school-sponsored activities. The Board, consistent with state and federal law, therefore condemns all unwelcome behavior of a sexual nature which may impose a requirement of sexual cooperation as a condition of academic advance, or which may have the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive learning environment. The Board also prohibits any retaliatory behavior against complainants or witnesses.
Any student who believes that he or she has been subjected to sexual harassment should report the alleged misconduct immediately, pursuant to 5020.1-R, so that appropriate corrective action, up to and including discharge of an employee or suspension of a student, may be taken at once. The complainant shall not be discouraged from reporting an incident of sexual harassment. In the absence of a victim's complaint, the Board upon learning of, or having reason to suspect, the occurrence of any sexual harassment, will ensure that an investigation is promptly commenced by appropriate individuals.
The Superintendent of Schools is directed to develop and implement specific procedures on reporting, investigating and remedying allegations of sexual harassment. Such procedures are to be consistent with any applicable provisions contained in the district's policy manual, collective bargaining agreements, the tenure laws as well as other Federal and State laws on sexual harassment. Training programs shall be established for students and employees to raise awareness of the issues surrounding sexual harassment and to implement preventative measures to help reduce incidents of sexual harassment.
A copy of this policy and its accompanying regulations are to be distributed to all personnel and students and posted in appropriate places.
Policy Adopted: January 29, 1997 Wayne Central School District
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