Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying Definition:
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"Harassment, intimidation, or bullying" means any gesture, any written, verbal or physical act, or any electronic communication, as defined in N.J.S.A.18A:37-14, whether it be a single incident or a series of incidents that:
1. Is reasonably perceived at being motivated by either any actual or perceived characteristic, such as race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, or a mental physical or sensory disability, or by any other distinguishing characteristic;
2. Takes place on school property, at any school-sponsored function, on a school bus, or off school grounds, as provided for in N.J.S.A.18A:37-15.3;
3. Substantially disrupts or interferes with the with the orderly operation of the school or the rights of other students.
All 3 criteria need to be present in order for a situation to potentially be deemed an HIB. If there are less than 3, it is handled under Code of Conduct, Policy 5131.
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Conflict vs
Bullying |
Conflict:
- Happens because of an argument or disagreement
- Both people have equal power
- No serious, lasting harm
Bullying:
- Action of a person is motivated by race, religion, gender, physical disability, national origin, or other distinguishing characteristics
- Unequal balance of power
- Can be serious emotional or physical lasting harm
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