Bainbridge Island School District follows state law and has appropriate policies and procedures in place that address the prohibition of harassment, intimidation and bullying.

Policy 3207 and Procedure 3207  -  Prohibition of Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying, were revised and adopted in September 2023. 

The district is committed to a safe and civil educational environment that is free from the harassment, intimidation or bullying of any student. As defined in Chapter 28A.600 RCW (Students) “Harassment, intimidation or bullying” means any intentional electronic, written, verbal, or physical act, including but not limited to, one shown to be motivated by any characteristic in RCW 28A.640.010 and RCW 28A-642.010, or other distinguishing characteristics, when the act:

• Physically harms a student or damages the student’s property.
   
• Has the effect of substantially interfering with a student’s education.
   
• Is so severe, persistent or pervasive that it creates an intimidating or threatening educational environment.
   
• Has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school. 

Nothing in this section requires the affected student to actually possess a characteristic that is a basis for the harassment, intimidation or bullying.

“Other distinguishing characteristics” can include but are not limited to: physical appearance, clothing or other apparel, socioeconomic status and weight.

“Intentional acts” refers to the individual’s choice to engage in the act rather than the ultimate impact of the action(s).

This policy and accompanying procedure do not govern harassment, intimidation, or bullying of an employee, volunteer, parent/legal guardian, or community member.

 

Harassment and bullying are clearly defined by the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction. OSPI also has information on their School Safety Center website about bullying and harassment. Other resources include two FAQ Powerpoint presentations: one on Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying and a second on Cyberbullying.

 

If you need to report an incident, please use the Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying Reporting Form..

 

If you have questions or concerns about harassment, bullying and intimidation, please contact your student's principal, or you may contact the Bainbridge Island School District's Harassment, Bullying and Intimidation Compliance Officer, Amii Thompson at 206-780-1067 or athompson@bisd303.org.