Polk County Schools: Bullying Reporting Procedures Updated

Polk County Public Schools is reminding students, parents and staff of procedures for reporting bullying and harassment to maintain a safe learning environment. The district states it will not tolerate such behavior.

The district defines bullying or harassment as negative or malicious behavior that occurs more than once on school property or at a school event, disrupts learning, and involves an imbalance of power or an attempt to create one. If these criteria are met, the behavior should be reported immediately.

Students, parents, guardians, volunteers and concerned individuals can report bullying or harassment in writing via a provided link or by contacting school administration. All school employees must report alleged violations they witness or learn about. Reports can be submitted anonymously, and the district will investigate each incident and notify parents of the outcome.

For concerns that may not meet the full definition of bullying or harassment, or for additional support, individuals should contact their school administration, guidance counselor or teacher. The Polk County Public Schools Bullying Prevention Team is also available. Threats of physical harm should be reported immediately to law enforcement.