The League of Iowa Human & Civil Rights Agencies is an informal statewide organization comprised of the Iowa Civil Rights Commission (ICRC), the Iowa Department of Human Rights (DHR) and local civil and human rights commissions throughout the state of Iowa. This blog provides information about federal and state civil rights laws impacting Iowans. To learn more about the League, please visit http://www.leagueofiowahumanrights.com/.




Friday, March 4, 2011

What Should Students Do If They Experience Harassment at School?

Remember, harassment is not the student's fault. Every student has a right to an educational setting free of harassment. There are actions students can take to end the harassment.

- Tell the harasser in person or in writing that the behavior is not welcome. Ask them to stop. Be specific about actions or words that make the student uncomfortable.

- Tell someone else about the harassment, a trusted adult or friend.

- Keepa written record of the incidents of harassment, including notes of witnesses who might have observed the incident.

- If the harassment does not stop, report it to school administration. A parent or friend can accompany the student if support is desired.

- If the school does not take prompt action to stop and resolvethe complaint, file a complaint with an external agency like the Iowa Civil Rights Commission or the Iowa Department of Education.

For additional information on harassment or other issues regarding discrimination, you may also want to contact the Iowa Civil Rights Commission, the Iowa Department of Education, Iowa Pride Network, or the Iowa Safe Schools Taskforce.

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