SUBJECT:    HAZING OF STUDENTS

         The Board is committed to providing a safe, productive, and positive learning environment within its schools. Hazing activities are demeaning and abusive behaviors that harm victims, are inconsistent with the educational goals of the District, and may constitute criminal conduct. Consequently, hazing of students by other students or groups of students is strictly prohibited on school property, in school buildings, on school buses, by school-sponsored groups, clubs, or teams, and at school-sponsored events and/or activities whether occurring on or off-campus. Hazing is prohibited regardless of the victim's apparent willingness to participate in the activity.

         For purposes of this policy, the term "hazing" is defined as any humiliating or dangerous activity expected of a student to join a group, regardless of their willingness to participate. Acts constituting hazing may range in severity from teasing or embarrassing a student to various forms of physical, emotional, and/or sexual abuse. Hazing behaviors include, but are not limited to:

         a)      Humiliation:  socially offensive, isolating, or uncooperative behaviors.

         b)      Substance abuse:  abuse of tobacco, alcohol, or illegal drugs.

         c)      Other dangerous actions:  hurtful, aggressive, destructive, and disruptive behaviors.

         Hazing is a form of harassment and bullying and may constitute discrimination. As such, the District's response to reports of hazing will be governed by applicable law, the District's Code of Conduct, and Policy #7550 -- Dignity for All Students, and its implementing regulations. In the event allegations involve hazing based on a student's race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, or disability, the District may utilize the procedures set forth in Policy #3420 -- Non-Discrimination and Anti-Harassment in the District, and its implementing regulations.

Education Law §§ 1709-a, 2503-a, and 2801
Penal Law §§ 120.16 and 120.17
8 NYCRR § 100.2