Dignity and Respect, Always
The dignity of each individual is best served when all concerned, whether staff or students, treat one another respectfully.
Sexual harassment and bullying behavior are not tolerated in Academy District 20 schools, at school activities, on school buses or at district bus stops. To enhance safety at schools and on school buses, video and audio recording devices have been installed and may be in operation at any time.
"Bullying" means any written or verbal expression, or physical or electronic act or gesture, or a pattern thereof, that is intended to coerce, intimidate, or cause any physical, mental or emotional harm to any student, including but not limited to any behavior that is directed toward a student. Colorado law is clear that bullying is prohibited against any student for any reason, including but not limited to any such behavior that is directed toward a student on the basis of his or her academic performance; or against whom federal and state laws prohibit discrimination upon any of the bases described in section 22-32-109 (1) (11) (I) (disability, race, creed, color, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, ancestry or need for special education services).
Bullying can be direct or indirect, physical or verbal. Bullying does not necessarily include all conflicts between students. Bullying is typically characterized by an imbalance of power. (Each building has a bullying prevention and education program to help you. See administrative policy JICDE for more information on this topic.