§ 115C-407.16. Policy against bullying or harassing behavior. - North Carolina Statutes

§ 115C‑407.16.  Policyagainst bullying or harassing behavior.

(a)        Before December 31,2009, each local school administrative unit shall adopt a policy prohibitingbullying or harassing behavior.

(b)        The policy shallcontain, at a minimum, the following components:

(1)        A statementprohibiting bullying or harassing behavior.

(2)        A definition ofbullying or harassing behavior no less inclusive than that set forth in thisArticle.

(3)        A description of thetype of behavior expected for each student and school employee.

(4)        Consequences andappropriate remedial action for a person who commits an act of bullying orharassment.

(5)        A procedure forreporting an act of bullying or harassment, including a provision that permitsa person to report such an act anonymously. This shall not be construed topermit formal disciplinary action solely on the basis of an anonymous report.

(6)        A procedure forprompt investigation of reports of serious violations and complaints of any actof bullying or harassment, identifying either the principal or the principal'sdesignee as the person responsible for the investigation.

(7)        A statement thatprohibits reprisal or retaliation against any person who reports an act ofbullying or harassment, and the consequence and appropriate remedial action fora person who engages in reprisal or retaliation.

(8)        A statement of howthe policy is to be disseminated and publicized, including notice that thepolicy applies to participation in school‑sponsored functions.

(c)        Nothing in thisArticle shall prohibit a local school administrative unit from adopting apolicy that includes components beyond the minimum components provided in thissection or that is more inclusive than the requirements of this Article.

(d)        Notice of the localpolicy shall appear in any school unit publication that sets forth thecomprehensive rules, procedures, and standards of conduct for schools withinthe school unit and in any student and school employee handbook.

(e)        Informationregarding the local policy against bullying or harassing behavior shall beincorporated into a school's employee training program.

(f)         To the extentfunds are appropriated for these purposes, a local school administrative unitshall, by March 1, 2010, provide training on the local policy to school employeesand volunteers who have significant contact with students.  (2009‑212, s. 1; 2009‑570,s. 39.)