Sexual Harassment Prevention

1
Sexual Harassment Prevention Reporting

• Mrs. Rideout
• Ms. Kline

2
What is Sexual Harassment?

• Illegal a level 3 code of conduct violation
• Actions or statements that are sexual in nature,
  which offend or defame the dignity or self-esteem
  of an individual. (ex. Unwelcome sexual
  advances, sexual remarks or jokes, requests for
  sexual favors, and other offensive verbal or
  physical conduct directed at an individual. It
  includes the display of pictures, drawings,
  electronic communication or other items that are
  sexual in nature).

3
Examples of Sexual Harassment

• Sexual comments/gestures
• Sexual notes, pictures, electronic communication
• Spreading Sexual Rumors
• Touching or grabbing of body parts
• Demand for Sex/Sexual favors
• Assault, attempted rape, rape

4
Sexual Harassment

• Is one sided
• Not funny
• Against the law and code of conduct
• Can make you feel afraid, powerless, angry, sad,
  decrease your self-confidence and esteem, effect
  your grades, and make you feel isolated at school

5
What does flirting look like?

• Making a comment to someone that doesnt offend
  them.
• Giving complements that dont offend or embarrass
  others.
• Flirting is two sided and both parties consent
  (neither is offended).

6
What is a Hostile Environment?

• The sexual comments/behaviors occur frequently
  and are severe.
• You become uncomfortable going to and
  participating in class and/or activities.
• You avoid places the harasser will be (cafeteria,
  hallways, bathrooms, etc.).
• The people witnessing the behavior become
  uncomfortable.

7
Title 9 Federal Law

• No person in the United States shall, on the
  basis of sex Be excluded from participating in,
  be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to
  discrimination under any education program or
  activity receiving federal financial assistance.
• The Title 9 Coordinator is Dr. Vari. It is his
  responsibility to investigate and resolve these
  issues.

8
Stopping Sexual Harassment

• Tell a teacher, friend and your parent/guardian
• Tell the harasser to stop
• Dont ignore it
• Make a list of the incidents (when, where,
  witnesses)
• Keep all notes or electronic communication the
  harasser sends you as proof
• Report the incident to the Title 9 coordinator
  (Dr. Vari), or someone you trust

9
Stopping Sexual Harassment

• Write a letter to the harasser describing the
  problem, your feelings, and give it to an adult
  to deliver to the harasser
• You have the right to file a complaint with the
  US Dept. of Education, office of civil rights,
  state board of education, or file a lawsuit under
  the Title 9 law

10
Preventing Sexual Harassment

• Publicize the schools policy during the
  announcements on bulletin boards
• Speak up when you see harassment (call the Bully
  hotline [phone] or email reportMMSbullying_at_ap
  po.k12.de.us)
• Conduct a harassment survey and publicize the
  results in the school newsletter
• Form a student leadership group to make
  presentations to classes about harassment

11
What if the Harasser is an adult?

• Tell your parent/guardian, a trusted teacher, and
  the Title 9 coordinator (Dr. Vari).

12
Key questions?

• Is flirting with someone sexual harassment?
• If I offend someone with my actions or comments
  will I be in trouble for sexual harassment?
• Whats the difference between flirting and sexual
  harassment?
• How can I tell if Ive offended someone?

13
Key questions?

• Should I keep quiet if Im being harassed by a
  student or adult?