Sexual Harassment Prevention & Reporting

Mrs. Rideout

Ms. Kline

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).

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

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

What does flirting look like?

• Making a comment to someone that doesn’t offend them.

• Giving complements that don’t offend or embarrass others.

• Flirting is two sided and both parties consent (neither is offended).

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.

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.

Stopping Sexual Harassment

• Tell a teacher, friend and your parent/guardian• Tell the harasser to stop• Don’t 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

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

Preventing Sexual Harassment

• Publicize the school’s policy during the announcements & on bulletin boards

• Speak up when you see harassment (call the Bully hotline 302-376-4444 or email reportMMSbullying@appo.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

What if the Harasser is an adult?

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

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?

• What’s the difference between flirting and sexual harassment?

• How can I tell if I’ve offended someone?

Key questions?

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