Bullying Policy

1. Introduction

At Miles Ahead Charter School (MACS), we are committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all students. This manual provides clear policies and procedures on student behavior, bullying, and disciplinary actions, ensuring compliance with both state laws and MACS’s mission of fostering a supportive learning community.

2. Bullying Policy

Definition of Bullying (MACS)

Bullying at MACS is defined in accordance with Georgia state law and includes:

• Any intentional effort to cause harm, including verbal threats, physical aggression, or any behavior that causes another student to fear for their safety.
• Intimidation or harassment through verbal, physical, or electronic means (cyberbullying), including social media, text messages, or other forms of communication that aim to harm, embarrass, or exclude another student.
• Bullying may take place on school property, during school-sponsored activities, or via digital communication between students.

Consequences of Bullying at MACS

At MACS, we take bullying very seriously, and all incidents will be thoroughly investigated. Depending on the nature and frequency of the behavior, the consequences will escalate:

• First Offense: The student will receive a formal warning, be referred to counseling, and their parents/guardians will be informed.
• Second Offense: The student may face in-school suspension, detention, or other appropriate disciplinary action. A parent meeting will be required.
• Third Offense: As mandated by Georgia state law and MACS policy, if a student in grades 6 through 12 is found guilty of bullying for the third time within the same school year, they will be assigned to an alternative school.

Third Offense Bullying Requirement

As per state regulations and MACS policy, any student in grades 6 through 12 who commits the offense of bullying for the third time within the same school year shall be assigned to an alternative school. This decision will be made following a review by the MACS disciplinary hearing officer or panel, ensuring due process for the student involved.

Prevention and Education

MACS aims to prevent bullying and cyberbullying through the following measures:

• Education and Awareness: The school will provide ongoing education for students, staff, and parents about the nature and impact of bullying and cyberbullying. This will include lessons on empathy, digital citizenship, and respectful communication.
• Positive School Culture: MACS will promote a positive, inclusive school environment where students are encouraged to develop healthy relationships and respect diversity. School-wide programs, activities, and campaigns will emphasize kindness, teamwork, and peer support.
• Staff Training: All MACS staff members will receive regular training to recognize signs of bullying and respond effectively. Staff will also be trained on how to integrate anti-bullying practices into classroom instruction and management.

3. Definitions of Offenses as Outlined by State of Georgia Law

At MACS, we adhere to the legal definitions of various offenses as required by Georgia state law. Each offense is defined to ensure a clear understanding and appropriate response from students, staff, and parents. Below are key offenses and their definitions:

Definitions of Specific Offenses at MACS

• Assault: Intentional actions or threats that cause another person to fear imminent harm.
• Battery: Unlawful physical contact or harm to another person.
• Cyberbullying: Using electronic communication to bully, intimidate, or harass another person, including on social media, messaging platforms, or via text.
• Disorderly Conduct: Disruptive or offensive behavior that disturbs the school environment.
• Hazing: Actions taken to cause discomfort, humiliation, or harm as part of an initiation process.
• Sexual Harassment: Unwanted sexual advances, comments, or physical contact that interferes with a student’s ability to participate in school activities.
• Vandalism: The willful destruction or damage of school property or the property of others.
• Weapon Possession: Carrying or possessing any object that can be used to cause harm or threaten violence.

These definitions align with the Georgia Code and the Georgia Department of Education’s requirements for public schools.

4. Disciplinary Procedures at MACS

Investigation and Response

MACS will investigate all reports of bullying and cyberbullying promptly and thoroughly. Investigations will include interviews with the involved students, witnesses, and staff. Confidentiality will be maintained throughout the investigation to the greatest extent possible.

Upon confirmation of bullying or cyberbullying:

• Support for the victim: The school will provide counseling, emotional support, and any necessary academic accommodations to help the affected student.
• Consequences for the perpetrator: Appropriate disciplinary action will be taken, which may include counseling, mediation, detention, suspension, or expulsion, depending on the severity of the incident.
• Restorative Measures: When appropriate, the school will seek to implement restorative practices to rebuild trust and heal relationships between the students involved.

Procedures

1. Investigation: The school will investigate any reported incidents to determine the facts.
2. Hearing/Review: For more serious offenses, the student may go before the MACS disciplinary panel or hearing officer.
3. Consequences: Depending on the offense and any prior infractions, the student may face consequences ranging from a warning to expulsion or reassignment to an alternative school.
4. Appeals: Students and their families have the right to appeal decisions that involve long-term suspension, expulsion, or alternative school placement.

Possible Consequences

• Verbal or written warnings
• Loss of privileges (such as extracurricular activities)
• Parental notification and meetings
• Behavioral contracts or intervention plans
• Counseling referrals
• Detention, suspension, or expulsion in severe cases

Retaliation

Retaliation against any student or staff member who reports bullying or cyberbullying is strictly prohibited. Any act of retaliation will be subject to disciplinary action. Students should feel safe to report bullying without fear of retribution.

False Reports

Knowingly making false accusations of bullying or cyberbullying is prohibited and will be treated as a serious violation of school policy. Students found to have made false reports will face disciplinary action.

Parental Involvement

MACS encourages active parental involvement in bullying prevention. Parents will be informed of the school’s policies and provided resources to recognize and address bullying or cyberbullying at home. In cases of serious bullying, parents will be involved in the development of a resolution plan.

Monitoring and Evaluation

The effectiveness of MACS’ bullying and cyberbullying policy will be regularly reviewed. Feedback from students, parents, and staff will be gathered through surveys and other assessments to continually improve prevention efforts. The policy will be updated as necessary to reflect best practices and legal requirements.

Legal Compliance

This policy is in compliance with state and federal anti-bullying laws and guidelines. MACS will collaborate with local law enforcement and other relevant agencies as needed to ensure a safe school environment for all students.

5. Assignment to Alternative or Home Schools

In cases of severe or repeated violations, including bullying, a student may be reassigned to an alternative educational program (or assisted with registering to return to their home school in their neighborhood). Specifically, if a student is found to have committed bullying for the third time within a school year, the student will be referred to an alternative school as outlined in Georgia law and enforced by MACS.

The assignment will be for a duration determined by the MACS disciplinary tribunal, considering the nature of the violation and the student’s history.

6. Reporting Procedures at MACS

All members of the MACS community, including students, staff, and parents, are encouraged to report any instances of bullying, harassment, or other offenses. Reports can be made to any school administrator, counselor, or through the designated MACS reporting system.

• All reports will be treated with confidentiality, and MACS will conduct a thorough investigation into every complaint to ensure the safety and well-being of all students.
• Students can report incidents directly to a teacher, counselor, or administrator or use an anonymous reporting system if available.
• Parents/Guardians are encouraged to contact the school if they suspect their child is being bullied or is engaging in bullying behavior.
• Staff members are required to report any incidents of bullying or cyberbullying they witness or become aware of.

7. Conclusion

Miles Ahead Charter School (MACS) strives to create an educational environment where students feel safe, respected, and able to succeed. This policy manual provides clear guidelines for student behavior and disciplinary procedures, ensuring that our school remains a place where everyone can thrive. We ask that all students, parents, and staff review and adhere to these policies to support our school community.