The purpose of the revisions to this policy is to ensure compliance with all applicable federal and state laws, Florida State Board of Education Rules, Board policies, administrative rules, procedures, and guidelines. In addition, the proposed revisions promote transparency and accountability.

• The policy has been revised to cross-reference the new Policy 2266 and require that reports of sexual or gender-based harassment first be evaluated by a Title IX Coordinator for applicability of the Title IX grievance process. After screening, any reports deemed not to fall under the scope of Title IX would be addressed through this policy. Any reports falling under Title IX must instead be addressed through the grievance process in Policy 2266.
• Clarification has been added regarding “school” days.
• Additionally, an amendment is presented to cross-reference the appeals process in Policy 2260.01 applicable to bullying and/or harassment cases.
• Finally, the training materials references have been updated.
• The proposed amendments did not arise from an updated NEOLA template; instead, they were initiated by BPS legal counsel in consultation with Student Services.

Board Policy 5517.01 - Bullying and/or Harassment is currently being revised and will appear before the School Board on the dates indicated below:

•    Cabinet – 11/15/2021
•    Work Session – 12/14/2021
•    Rule Development Workshop – 01/18/2022
•    School Board Meeting Information – 01/18/2022
•    School Board Meeting Approval – 02/08/2022
•    Effective Date – upon approval