“Bullying”- Revised Definition and New Policy Requirements for Investingation of Bullying/Discrimination Complaints (K-12)

Effective July 1, 2012, the term “bullying” set forth in subdivision (r) of Education Code section 48900, grounds for student discipline, will be revised as follows: , Engaged in an act of bullying by any severe or pervasive physical or verbal act or conduct, including communications made in writing or by means of an electronic act, and including one or more acts committed by a pupil or group of pupils as defined in Education Code sections 48900.2, 48900.3, or 48900.4 directed at one or more pupils that has or can be reasonably predicted to have the effect of one or more of the following: placing a reasonable pupil or pupils in fear of harm to the pupil or pupils or his/her/their property; causing a reasonable pupil to experience substantial interference with his or her physical or mental health; causing a reasonable pupil to experience substantial interference with his or her academic performance; or causing a reasonable pupil to experience substantial interference with his or her ability to participate in or benefit from the services, activities or privileges provided by a school.