443.71 Technology Safety: Harassment and Cyber Bullying

The District’s computer network, the Internet, and any other electronic device whether accessed on campus or off campus, during or after school hours, may not be used for the purpose of harassment.  All forms of digital harassment, commonly referred to as cyber bullying, are unacceptable and viewed as a violation of this policy and the District’s acceptable communication policy and procedures.

Malicious use of the District’s computer system to develop programs or to institute practices that harass other users or gain unauthorized access to any entity on the system and/or damage the components of an entity on the network is prohibited.  Users are responsible for the appropriateness of the material they transmit over the system.  Any inappropriate email, harassment, or discriminatory remarks are expressly prohibited.

Cyber bullying includes, but is not limited to the following misuses of technology:  harassing, teasing, intimidating, threatening, or terrorizing another person by sending or posting inappropriate and hurtful e-mail messages, instant message, text messages, digital pictures or images, or Web site postings, including blogs.  It is also recognized that the author (poster or sender) of the inappropriate material is often disguised (logged on) as someone else.

Students and community members, who believe they have been the victims of such misuses of technology, as described in this policy, should not erase the offending material from the system.  A copy of the materials should be printed and brought to the attention of the building principal or Directory of Technology.

The administration shall fully investigate all reports of harassment and cyber bullying.

In situations in which the cyber bullying originated from a non-school computer or electronic device, but brought to the attention of school officials, any disciplinary action shall be based upon whether the conduct is determined to be disruptive of the educational process so that it interrupts or impedes the day-to-day operations of a school.  In addition, such conduct must also be in violation of a publicized school policy.  Such conduct includes, but is not limited to, harassment, or making a threat off school grounds that is intended to endanger the health, safety or property of others at school, a District employee or school board member.

Disciplinary action may include, but is not limited to, the loss of computer privileges, detention, suspension, or expulsion for verified perpetrators of cyber bullying.  In addition, when any kind of threat is communicated, a hate crime is committed, or any other potential crime is committed, the incident shall be reported to local law enforcement officials.

Cross Reference:         Board Policy 363.2 Acceptable Use of Media and Communication

                                    Board Policy 364 Internet Safety Policy

                                    District Acceptable Communication Manual

                                    Board Policy 411.1 Harassment

                                    Board Policy 443.5 Use of Wireless Technology

Approved:       9-15-09

Revised: