School District Unveils New Bullying Policy

The has approved a bullying policy that aims to take a multifaceted approach to the issue.

Lynnfield Superintendent of Schools Robert Hassett recently told Patch.com that the bullying policy aims to focus on character building among students while also working to "create a positive environment for all to feel safe."

Superintendent: Bullying Not Widespread In District

When asked to what extent bullying exists in the Lynnfield school system, Hassett acknowledged that "it exists, but I think to a very small degree. Overall, I think our students are extremely respectful of each other."

The superintendent added that across the district in general, "respectful behavior is encouraged by parents and expected by teachers."

Formal Policy Posted On District Website

In the formal policy, the district declares that "bullying of any type has no place in a school setting" and goes on to prohibit such behavior on or adjacent to school grounds, at bus stops, on buses and at school-related activities, functions and programs.

The policy goes on to state that bullying is also prohibited in a non-school setting and via technology if the activity results in a hostile environment at school for a target or "disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of a school."

School staff members who witness an act of bullying are required to report the incident to the principal or other administrator at once, while students, parents and others are also expected to maintain the same standard.

Policy Focuses On Response As Well As Prevention

After receiving a bullying report, the policy states that a school principal, assistant principal or administrator will inform the parents of the alleged target and the alleged aggressor. Local law enforcement may also be notified if there is reason to believe criminal conduct has taken place.

The next step laid out is for a principal or assistant principal to speak with the involved parties to determine exactly what happened. In these cases, the official conducting the investigation may opt for disciplinary action, new safety measures and other steps at the end of the process.

Meanwhile, the district has also laid out a plan to help prevent bullying in the first place in Lynnfield schools. The plan includes annual training for all school staff on the plan, as well as ongoing professional development opportunities to help them identify and respond to bullying.