Schools and Educators Respond to Cyberbullying

The definition of Cyberbullying according to Florida State Statute 784.048(d) is engaging in a course of conduct to communicate, or to cause to be communicated, words images, or language by or through the use of electronic mail or electronic communication, directed at or about a specific person, causing substantial emotional distress to that person and serving no legitimate purpose.

School’s responsibility

Schools work diligently to provide for the safety, care, wellbeing and education of students. District support staff, school administrators, and teachers strive to create a safe and positive learning environment for all students.

The Jeffrey Johnson law requires schools to have a system in place to allow parents and students to report bullying; a procedure to investigate, inform parents, and develop as well as monitor an action plan if a case of bullying is determined.

Confidentiality

 According to Florida Statute 1002.22(3)(d) the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (“FERPA”); the Health Insurance Portability, Accountability Act (“HIPPA”), and Florida Statutes 119.07(1), 102.31(3)a, or 102.796(1)(c) all attempts to will be made to keep complaints confidential to the extent possible. The identities of the complainant and the victim of the reported act will be protected.

 The School Board has an obligation to investigate a bullying report and take corrective actions. Limited disclosure may be necessary to conduct the investigation.