Every parent wants their child to thrive in a nurturing and safe learning environment. However, bullying is a pervasive issue in many schools, with far too many in-person and online incidents occurring each year.
If you know or suspect your child is being bullied in school, you might worry about their mental health, self-esteem, and academic performance. Understanding the legal framework for addressing bullying and the specifics of your student’s rights can provide hope during these difficult times.
Here’s what you need to know if your child experiences bullying at school.
Legal Framework for Addressing Bullying
In many educational settings, the term “bullying” means intentional and repeated harassment or torment, whether verbal, physical, or digital in nature. Beyond this basic definition, federal laws such as Title IX and the Civil Rights Act play key roles in protecting students.
Title IX protects students from gender-based discrimination, which includes bullying and harassment related to gender or sexuality. The Civil Rights Act prohibits discrimination based on race, color, sex, religion, and national origin. These laws require schools to take proactive measures against such discriminatory practices and ensure a safe learning environment for all students.
Schools are legally obligated to address and rectify the situation if bullying occurs. Parents and guardians should meticulously document all instances of bullying, as this evidence is critical when building a legal case or holding a school accountable. Cyber bullying lawyers can use this documentation to underscore the gravity of the situation and strengthen the affected student’s case.
South Carolina Bullying Regulations and Reporting
In South Carolina, the Safe School Climate Act addresses bullying. Under this law, no one can harass, intimidate, or bully another person at school. Anyone who witnesses such an act must report it to a school official. The law requires schools to have policies in place to address such behavior and protect students.
A local school bullying lawyer can help you understand the protections in place for your children and how to advocate for them if they face bullying at school.
Stewart Law Offices’ Support for Families
Every child deserves to learn in a safe environment. If bullying interferes with your child’s educational journey, the bullying lawyers at Stewart Law Offices can help. We can talk about how to stop harassment legally using bullying and harassment laws.
Our dedicated team understands the nuances of the legal system and how it applies to bullying in schools. We are committed to advocating for your child’s safety and rights. The journey might seem long, but justice is within reach with the right legal partner.
Reach out to Stewart Law Offices now and take the first step with a free initial consultation.
