BULLYING PREVENTION POLICY
All elementary and secondary schools in the Diocese of Joliet shall actively seek to provide a supportive, caring environment in which all persons are safe from all forms of intimidation including bullying, which is unacceptable, unchristian and strictly prohibited.
For the purpose of this policy, bullying is defined in conformity with Illinois Law as follows:
“Any severe or pervasive physical or verbal act or conduct, including communications made in writing or electronically, directed toward a student or students that has or can be reasonably predicted to have the effect of one or more of the following:
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Placing the student or students in reasonable fear of harm to the student’s or students’ person or property;
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Causing a substantially detrimental effect on the student’s or students’ physical or mental health;
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Substantially interfering with the student’s or students’ academic performance; or
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Substantially interfering with the student’s or students’ ability to participate in or benefit from the services, activities, or privileges provided by a school.”105 ILCS 5/27-23.7 (b)
Bullying Conduct
Bullying conduct covered by this policy is conduct that occurs on school property or at school sponsored activities or events; while students are being transported or walking to or from school or school sponsored activities or events; while students are waiting at school bus stops; or cyber bullying as defined hereinafter.
Cyber Bullying
This policy prohibits bullying and intimidation of students through the use of internet and social media sites on any electronic device (private, public, or school owned), whether on or off the school campus, or during non-school hours.
Any student who engages in bullying will be subject to appropriate discipline, up to and including suspension or expulsion and referral to local law enforcement. Behavioral interventions may be included as a component of the disciplinary actions. This may include but is not limited to mandatory counseling.
Retaliatory behavior by a student accused of bullying will also incur consequences. False accusations of bullying will result in disciplinary action taken against the accuser.
Reporting Process
Students, parents, and school personnel are encouraged to immediately report any incident of concern to the school principal. Upon receiving a report an investigation will be done within 10 school days. The parents of the students involved will be notified. Any appropriate measures will be taken at the school, shared with parents, and school personnel will be made aware.