Prohibits discrimination against and harassment or bullying of students by other students on school property or at a school function; requires schools to investigate reports of bullying; requires schools to adopt a written, plain-language anti-bullying and harassment policy; requires school employees to report incidents of bullying or harassment.
Impact
The bill's enforcement mechanism requires school administrators to investigate incidents of bullying in a timely manner, ensuring that affected students are kept informed of the investigation's outcome. By mandating that all nonpublic schools adopt comprehensive anti-bullying policies, New York State aims to establish a formal standard for a safe educational environment where harassment and intimidation are actively addressed and prohibited.
Summary
Bill S04544, also known as the 'Jack Reid Law: Protect All Students Act', is aimed at strengthening protections against bullying and harassment for students in nonpublic schools. The bill outlines clear definitions of bullying and harassment, stipulating that no student should face such conduct on school property or during school functions. Additionally, it mandates that schools develop and implement a written, plain-language anti-bullying policy that is publicly accessible to ensure transparency for students and parents alike.
Conclusion
If enacted, the 'Jack Reid Law: Protect All Students Act' will not only align nonpublic school policies with best practices for student safety but will also set a precedent for other educational institutions in terms of addressing and combating bullying. The law aims to foster a culture of civility within schools, ultimately enhancing the educational experience for all students.
Contention
Potential points of contention surrounding S04544 may revolve around how the bill defines and addresses behaviors classified as bullying, particularly the inclusion of cyberbullying under its jurisdiction. Concerns regarding the implementation of these policies, including how schools will monitor compliance and manage accusations of bullying, may also arise. The expectations placed on school employees to report any instances of bullying could lead to debates about the feasibility and effects of such duties on school dynamics.
Same As
Prohibits discrimination against and harassment or bullying of students by other students on school property or at a school function; requires schools to investigate reports of bullying; requires schools to adopt a written, plain-language anti-bullying and harassment policy; requires school employees to report incidents of bullying or harassment.
Prohibits discrimination against and harassment or bullying of students by employees or students on private, religious or denominational school property or at a school function; provides immunity from civil liability for a person making a good faith report of discrimination, harassment or bullying to authorities.
Prohibits discrimination against and harassment or bullying of students by employees or students on private, religious or denominational school property or at a school function; provides immunity from civil liability for a person making a good faith report of discrimination, harassment or bullying to authorities.
Requires persistently dangerous schools to file an incident reduction plan detailing the steps the school will take to reduce incidents of violence and disruption; requires notice to be given to victims of harassment, bullying, or violent offenses of their right to transfer to another public school.
Requires persistently dangerous schools to file an incident reduction plan detailing the steps the school will take to reduce incidents of violence and disruption; requires notice to be given to victims of harassment, bullying, or violent offenses of their right to transfer to another public school.
Requires comprehensive training at least one time per year for school bus drivers and school bus attendants in the discouragement, prevention and detection of harassment, bullying and discrimination.