Dear Monroe School District Community,

We are dedicated to our schools being safe and inclusive environments where all students feel that they belong. A vital part of creating this welcoming environment is actively protecting students from Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB)—whether in the classroom, on the school bus, in school sports, or during other school activities.

What is HIB?
According to state guidelines, HIB is defined as any intentional electronic, written, verbal, or physical act by a student that:

• Physically harms another student or damages their property;
• Significantly interferes with another student’s education; or,
• Is so severe, persistent, or significant that it creates an intimidating or threatening educational environment for other students.

HIB generally involves a perceived or observed power imbalance and tends to be repeated or highly likely to repeat. By law, HIB is not tolerated in our schools, and we are committed to preventing and addressing these incidents.

Parent Guide to Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying
We have a comprehensive Parent Guide to Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying available on our website. This guide explains how we respond to reports of HIB, details the investigation process, outlines potential consequences, and provides information on appealing a finding and whom to contact for support.

Reporting HIB Incidents
If a student experiences HIB, any member of our community can report it to a staff member or through our online reporting system, Guardian. When reporting a concern online, you may choose to identify yourself or remain anonymous. Keep in mind that we generally cannot take disciplinary action based on an anonymous report; however, we will monitor the environment to prevent further incidents. You can learn more about reporting a concern here.

What Happens Once a HIB Concern is Reported?
Usually, the daily conflict we see between students doesn’t meet the state definitions for HIB. Reports of HIB that don't meet these definitions are considered “peer conflict” and we turn to our District Handbook and discipline policy for guidance.

If an incident is determined to meet the criteria for HIB, you will be notified within two days if a formal investigation will proceed, whether your child is involved as a victim or alleged aggressor. The investigation process involves a review of available evidence and interviews with all involved students, witnesses, and teachers.

Once the investigation concludes, you will receive a Notification Letter detailing the findings. If your child was the victim, the letter will describe the supportive measures being implemented to prevent recurrence. If your child was found to be the aggressor, the letter will outline both supportive and disciplinary measures to ensure safety for all.

Consequences for HIB Incidents
While we understand that parents may wish to know specific outcomes, federal privacy laws (FERPA) prevent us from sharing details about another student’s discipline. However, we can discuss the range of supportive and disciplinary measures in place to maintain a safe environment.

Supportive measures are tailored to help a student feel secure and may include:

• Increased adult supervision in areas where HIB occurred
• Development of a personal Safety Plan
• Regular check-ins with school leaders, counselors, and other supportive staff
• Instruction in conflict resolution and self-management skills
• Mediation sessions with counselors or school leaders

Disciplinary measures vary based on the incident’s history and severity and may include:

• In-school suspension or out-of-school suspension
• "No Contact" and "Anti-Harassment" agreements
• Assignments focused on empathy or apology

Our commitment to reducing HIB incidents is part of our broader effort to create a supportive and inclusive environment for all students. Thank you for partnering with us to keep our schools safe and welcoming spaces.

Sincerely,

Shawn Woodward
Superintendent