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Bullying and Harassment
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Bullying and Harassment: Policies, Reporting, and Resources
Introduction
The Catholic Schools of the Diocese of Davenport are committed to providing a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all students, staff, and visitors. Bullying and harassment are strictly prohibited under Iowa law and school policy. We believe every student deserves respect and protection from harmful behaviors.
What is Bullying and Harassment?
Bullying and harassment are defined by Iowa Code §280.28 as any repeated and targeted electronic, written, verbal, or physical act toward a student that creates an objectively hostile school environment and meets one or more of the following conditions:- Places the student in reasonable fear of harm to themselves or their property.
- Has a substantially detrimental effect on the student’s physical or mental health.
- Interferes with the student’s academic performance.
- Interferes with the student’s ability to participate in school services, activities, or privileges.
Bullying and harassment may be based on actual or perceived traits, including but not limited to age, color, creed, national origin, race, religion, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical attributes, physical or mental ability or disability, ancestry, political party preference, political belief, socioeconomic status, or familial status.
Scope of Policy
This policy applies to all students, staff, and volunteers on school property, at school-sponsored activities, and in any context related to the school. It covers acts of bullying and harassment that occur electronically, in writing, verbally, or physically.
Diocesan and School Responsibilities- Maintain and communicate a clear anti-bullying and anti-harassment policy.
- Provide accessible complaint forms and investigation procedures.
- Notify parents or guardians within 24 hours of receiving a report.
- Develop safety plans for students involved in bullying or harassment incidents.
- Ensure compliance with diocesan, state and federal laws.
Reporting Bullying or Harassment
If you witness or experience bullying or harassment, please report it as soon as possible. Reports can be made by students, parents, staff, or volunteers.
How to Report:- Contact the designated school official.
Complaint Form Requirements:- Name and contact information of the student and complainant.
- Detailed description of the incident (date, time, location).
- Names of any witnesses.
- Description of the impact on the student (fear, health, academics).
- Upon receipt of the complaint form and conclusion of the investigation, findings and actions are communicated to all parties involved.
Investigation Process- All reports are promptly investigated by the administration of the school.
- The investigation considers the totality of circumstances.
- Parents or guardians are notified within 24 hours of the report.
- Investigations continue even if law enforcement is involved.
- Findings and actions are communicated to all parties involved.
Consequences and Remedial Actions- Disciplinary measures will be taken for policy violations, which may include suspension, expulsion, or other appropriate actions.
- Safeguards are in place to protect against retaliation for reporting bullying or harassment.
Resources and Support- Emergency Contacts: Call 911 or 988 if you or someone you know is in immediate danger or experiencing suicidal thoughts.
- Mental health resources
- Iowa Department of Education guidance documents
Access to Policy
A downloadable copy of the district’s anti-bullying and anti-harassment policy.
This policy is accessible to parents, students, staff, and volunteers.
A downloadable copy of Diocesan policy 430: anti-bullying and anti-harassment policy. This policy is accessible to parents, students, staff and volunteers.