Hope Hall believes all teachers and students should be treated with dignity and respect. It is the policy of the school to stop any behavior that harasses others and discipline any person found guilty of such behavior. Discipline may include in-school suspension, out of school suspension, or expulsion from the school. Further discipline may involve outside government agencies if needed.

The Board of Trustees, the principal, teachers and students work together to create a safe supportive environment. The teachers and students strive to respect the rights of all members of the school.

DEFINITION OF HARASSMENT IN SCHOOL:

1. Harassment is words or actions, which hurt, or embarrass another person.
2. Harassment is discrimination, treating people differently.
3. At Hope Hall we believe in fairness and respect for all.
   
   

Harassment includes:

1. Touching or talking to someone in an unwanted way.
2. Causing someone to feel hurt or offended.
3. Making it difficult for someone to do their work.
4. Repeatedly teasing or “kidding around” that is hurtful to one’s feelings.
5. Speaking or behaving violently.
   
   

Harassment may include:

• Demands or Threats.
  
• Repeatedly spreading rumors.
• Interference with another person’s learning.
• Offensive pictures, photos, illustrations, messages or notes.
• Cornering a person, pulling clothes.
  
  

No part of one person’s body may touch another person’s body in any way that is hurtful.

TEACHING AND TRAINING:

We will be giving ongoing training to students and faculty about the meaning of this policy. The school community will understand how to show respect and dignity to one another every day. We need your help and support to carry out this policy.