Sexual Harassment Policy

SEXUAL HARASSMENT & SEXUAL ASSAULT POLICIES

1. Introduction

Miles Ahead Charter School (MACS) is committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and inclusive learning environment. Sexual harassment is strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated. This policy outlines the expectations for student behavior, the definition of sexual harassment and assault, and the procedures for reporting and addressing any incidents of sexual harassment or assault.

2. Definition of Sexual Harassment & Assault

Sexual harassment is defined as any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature that interferes with a student’s ability to learn, feel safe, or participate fully in school activities. It can include, but is not limited to:

Verbal harassment: Sexual comments, jokes, or inappropriate remarks about someone’s appearance, gender, or body.
Physical harassment: Unwanted touching, grabbing, or other physical contact of a sexual nature.
Visual harassment: Displaying or sharing sexually explicit images, messages, or gestures.
Non-verbal harassment: Leering, making sexual gestures, or engaging in suggestive body language.
Online harassment: Sending or sharing sexually explicit content, messages, or threats through digital platforms (social media, text, email, etc.).

Sexual assault by a student peer refers to any non-consensual sexual act or behavior that occurs between students, where one student forces or coerces another into unwanted sexual activity. This can include a range of actions, such as:

Rape: Non-consensual penetration, whether vaginal, anal, or oral.
Groping or unwanted touching: Physical contact of a sexual nature without consent, including touching intimate parts.
Sexual harassment: Verbal or physical behavior that creates a hostile or intimidating environment, often involving sexual comments or advances.
Forcing someone to perform sexual acts: Compelling a peer to engage in sexual activity against their will, including forced oral sex or masturbation.
Coercion or manipulation: Using threats, emotional pressure, or manipulation to make someone engage in sexual activity.

It is important to note that consent must be mutual, enthusiastic, and can be withdrawn at any time. Any sexual activity without consent is considered assault, regardless of the relationship between the individuals involved, their ages, or their prior interactions. Schools and universities often have specific policies and legal frameworks to address and handle such incidents.

3. Prohibited Conduct

Scholars at MACS are prohibited from engaging in any form of sexual harassment, including but not limited to:

Making sexual advances or requesting sexual favors
Spreading rumors about another scholar’s sexual behavior
Sharing explicit content (images, videos, messages) in person or online
Engaging in physical contact of a sexual nature without consent
Using derogatory language or slurs related to someone’s gender or sexual identity

4. Reporting Procedures

Scholars who experience or witness sexual harassment are encouraged to report the incident as soon as possible. Reports can be made to:

A teacher or staff member
The school counselor
A school administrator
Using the anonymous reporting system, if available

All reports will be taken seriously, treated with confidentiality, and investigated promptly.

5. Investigation Process

Upon receiving a report of sexual harassment or assault, the school administration will initiate a thorough and impartial investigation. This process includes:

Interviewing the complainant, alleged harasser/abuser, and any witnesses
Reviewing any relevant evidence (e.g., messages, images)
Maintaining confidentiality to the greatest extent possible
Possibly including the local police department if a sexual crime has been committed

6. Consequences for Violations

If a scholar is found to have engaged in sexual harassment or assault, appropriate disciplinary actions will be taken, which may include:

Verbal or written warnings
Loss of privileges (e.g., participation in extracurricular activities)
Detention or suspension
Expulsion in severe cases
Report to the local police station for further investigation

The school may also provide counseling and support for both the victim and the offender as needed.

7. Retaliation Prohibited

Retaliation against any scholar who reports sexual harassment or assault or participates in an investigation is strictly prohibited. Any act of retaliation will result in disciplinary action.

8. False Reports

Making false accusations of sexual harassment or assault is a serious violation of the Scholar Code of Conduct. Any scholar who is found to have made a false report will face disciplinary measures.

9. Education and Prevention

MACS will provide regular education and training for scholars on recognizing, preventing, and addressing sexual harassment and assault. This includes classroom discussions, school-wide programs, and access to resources that promote respect and inclusion.