Skip To Main Content

Students

Important Information:

Norway J7 School District: Policy Prohibiting Discriminatory Harassment and Bullying

Policy Statement

The Norway J7 School District ("the District") is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and inclusive educational environment for all students. Discriminatory harassment and bullying on the basis of sex, race, color, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, and/or religion are strictly prohibited. Such behaviors undermine the District’s mission to promote equal opportunity and foster a climate of mutual respect and understanding.

Scope of Policy

This policy applies to all students, employees, volunteers, contractors, and other individuals involved in District programs, activities, or interactions on District property, at school-sponsored events, and in any environment where the District’s conduct policies apply, including virtual settings.

Definitions

Discriminatory Harassment: Conduct based on an individual’s sex, race, color, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, and/or religion that:

  • Creates a hostile, intimidating, or offensive educational environment;
  • Substantially interferes with a student’s academic performance; or
  • Otherwise limits a student’s ability to participate in or benefit from school programs or activities.

Bullying: Repeated, intentional, and harmful behavior directed at a student that:

  • Involves an imbalance of power;
  • Causes physical, emotional, or psychological harm; and
  • May include, but is not limited to, verbal, physical, or cyber-based actions.

Prohibited Behaviors

Examples of behaviors that violate this policy include, but are not limited to:

  • Slurs, epithets, or derogatory comments based on sex, race, color, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, and/or religion;
  • Unwelcome physical contact, threats, or intimidation related to protected characteristics;
  • Exclusion from activities, programs, or opportunities based on discriminatory intent; and
  • Distribution of offensive or demeaning materials, including online content, targeting a protected group.

Reporting Procedures

Student Reporting:

Students who believe they have experienced or witnessed discriminatory harassment or bullying are encouraged to report the incident promptly to a teacher, school counselor, principal, or other trusted staff member.

Parent/Guardian Reporting:

Parents or guardians may report concerns directly to school administration or the District’s Title IX Coordinator.

Anonymous Reporting:

The District provides an anonymous reporting mechanism to ensure all students feel safe reporting incidents without fear of retaliation.

Mandatory Reporting by Staff:

All District employees are required to report suspected discriminatory harassment or bullying to the building principal or Title IX Coordinator.

Investigation Process

Initial Review:

Reports of harassment or bullying will be reviewed promptly to determine the appropriate course of action.

Formal Investigation:

If the allegations suggest a policy violation, the District will initiate a thorough investigation, conducted in accordance with applicable legal standards, including Title IX regulations when relevant.

Resolution:

Following the investigation, the District will determine appropriate actions, which may include disciplinary measures, restorative practices, or other remedies designed to address and prevent recurrence of the behavior.

Confidentiality:

The District will protect the privacy of all parties involved to the greatest extent possible, consistent with the need to investigate and address the issue.

Disciplinary Actions

Students who engage in discriminatory harassment or bullying may face disciplinary consequences, up to and including suspension or expulsion. Employees, contractors, or volunteers found to have violated this policy may face corrective or disciplinary action, including termination of employment or services.

Retaliation Prohibited

Retaliation against individuals who report or participate in investigations of harassment or bullying is strictly prohibited and will result in disciplinary action.

Legal References

This policy aligns with federal and state laws, including but not limited to:

  • Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin);
  • Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sex);
  • Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (prohibiting discrimination on the basis of disability);
  • Wisconsin State Statutes on student bullying and harassment.

Policy Review and Updates

This policy will be reviewed annually by the District administration and the Board of Education to ensure compliance with legal requirements and alignment with best practices.

Contact Information

For questions or to report concerns, please contact the District’s Title IX Coordinator:

Name: Adam Scanlan
Phone: 262-895-7778 ext. 301
Email: scanlan@drought.school
Address: Norway J7 School District
21016 W 7 Mile Road, Franksville, WI 53126