Cyberbullying

The Merriam Webster online dictionary defines cyber bullying as the electronic posting of mean-spirited messages about a person (as a student) often done anonymously.  The laws in Oregon expand the boundaries of what constitutes cyber bullying to include those actions which “substantially interfere” with the education of the young person. Oregon law also mandates that school districts adopt policies prohibiting harassment, intimidation or bullying and acts of cyber bullying.  As posted on the Oregon School Board Associations web site, the law requires school boards to include the following in district policies:

  • A statement prohibiting harassment, intimidation or bullying and acts of cyber bullying.
  • A definition of harassment, intimidation or bullying and acts of cyber bullying.
  • A definition of protected class.
  • A description of the type of behavior expected from students.
  • A statement of the consequences and remedial action for persons who violate the policy.
  • Uniform procedure for reporting and prompt investigation of acts of harassment, intimidation, bullying and acts of cyber bullying.
  • A review procedure for actions of a school responding/investigating a reported act of harassment, intimidation, bullying and acts of cyber bullying.
  • A statement prohibiting reprisal or retaliation.
  • A statement of consequences and appropriate remedial action for a false accusation.
  • A statement of how the policy will be publicized.
  • An identification by job title of school and district officials responsible for policy implementation.

Eugene School District 4J Board Policies relating to Cyber bullying, intimidation, bullying, harassment, discrimination, hazing and retaliation.

  • Board Policy JFCFA/GBNAA – Cyberbullying – “Cyberbullying” is the use of any electronic communication device to convey a message in any form (text, image, audio, or video) that violates Board Policy JB-Intimidation, Bullying, Harassment, Discrimination, Hazing, and Retaliation or which disrupts or prevents a safe and positive educational or working environment, or places a person in reasonable fear of physical harm or damage to their property. Any form of cyberbullying, by students or staff is prohibited and will not be tolerated in the Eugene School District 4J.
  • Board Policy JB —Intimidation, Bullying, Harassment, Discrimination, Hazing, and Retaliation This policy defines each of the terms in the title and the consequences to students perpetrating such activity.