Adopted:          04/15/1991

Revised:          03/16/1992            

                       10/19/1992 

                       01/21/2008

 513

School District of Prairie Farm

Sexual Harassment / Pupil Harassment

The School Board acknowledges all regulations, requirements and responsibilities defined by the E.E.O.C. regarding sexual harassment as a violation of Title VII and Title IX.

Sexual harassment is a form of misconduct which undermines the integrity of the District's employment and academic relationships.  All employees and students must be allowed to work in an environment free from unsolicited and unwelcome sexual overtures.  Sexual harassment means unwelcome sexual advances, unwelcome physical contact of a sexual nature or unwelcome verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.  "Unwelcome verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature" includes but is not limited to the deliberate, repeated making of unsolicited gestures or comments, or the deliberate, repeated display of offensive sexually graphic materials which is not necessary for business purposes.  Individuals who experience sexual harassment should make it clear that such behavior is offensive to them and may process a complaint pursuant to this policy.  Sexual harassment may include actions such as:

·        Sex - oriented verbal "kidding" or abuse;

·        Subtle pressure for sexual activity;

·        Sexual contact as defined by statutes;

·        Demands for sexual favors, accompanied by implied or overt promises or preferential treatment or threats concerning an individual's employment or academic status.

Sexual harassment is a prohibited action when it results in discrimination for or against an employee or student on the basis of conduct not related to their working or learning performance.

Such practices would include any job related or academic action that is based upon an individual's acceptance of, resistance to, or refusal of sexual overtures.  This form of sexual harassment may be more difficult for employees or students to cope with when individuals offer or threaten to use the power of their position to control, influence or affect the career, salary, or job of another employee or academic status of a student in exchange for sexual favors.  Individuals who instigate this type of harassment are subject to disciplinary action, including suspension, demotion, or discharge.

It is possible for sexual harassment to occur at various levels:  among peers or co-workers, between supervisors and subordinates, between employees and students, or imposed by non-employees on employees and/or students.  In fulfilling our obligation to maintain a positive and productive working and learning environment, the District will make every effort to halt any harassment of which they become aware by calling attention to this policy or by more direct disciplinary action, if necessary.

Any person who believes he or she has been sexually harassed may file a written or oral complaint with School District Administration.

This policy also covers "Pupil Harassment" meaning behavior (comments, gestures, or physical attacks which are vulgar, obscene or threatening) toward pupils based, in whole or part, on sex, sexual orientation, race, religion, national origin, ancestry, creed, pregnancy, marital or parental status, or physical, mental, emotional or learning disability which substantially interferes with a pupil's school performance or creates an intimidates, hostile or offensive school environment.

To ensure that all employees and students work and study in an environment free of all forms of harassment, the Board expressly prohibits harassment and will take the necessary steps to prevent such harassment from occurring.  Any employee or student who engages in harassment will be disciplined. Harassment will not be tolerated in any aspect of the school program, including off-campus events and extra curricular activities.

Legal Ref.:        Wisconsin Statutes 111.31 - 111.37

Cross Ref.:       513 - Rule Sexual Harassment Complaint Procedure