Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying Definition:

"Harassment, intimidation, or bullying" means any gesture, any written, verbal or physical act, or any electronic communication, as defined in N.J.S.A.18A:37-14, whether it be a single incident or a series of incidents that:

1. Is reasonably perceived at being motivated by either any actual or perceived characteristic, such as race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, or a mental physical or sensory disability, or by any other distinguishing characteristic;

2.  Takes place on school property, at any school-sponsored function, on a school bus, or off school grounds, as provided for in N.J.S.A.18A:37-15.3;

3.  Substantially disrupts or interferes with the with the orderly operation of the school or the rights of other students.

All 3 criteria need to be present in order for a situation to potentially be deemed an HIB.  If there are less than 3, it is handled under Code of Conduct, Policy 5131.

Conflict vs
Bullying

Conflict:

• Happens because of an argument or disagreement

• Both people have equal power

• No serious, lasting harm

Bullying:

• Action of a person is motivated by race, religion, gender, physical disability, national origin, or other distinguishing characteristics

• Unequal balance of power

• Can be serious emotional or physical lasting harm