AACA Anti-bullying Policy

I. Purpose

AACA is committed to providing a safe, positive, and inclusive educational environment for all students, staff, and families. Bullying, harassment, or intimidation in any form will not be tolerated. This policy aligns with California Education Code Sections 234-234.5 (Safe Place to Learn Act) and federal protections under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

II. Definition of Bullying

Bullying is defined as any severe or pervasive physical or verbal act or conduct, including electronic communication, that is directed at a student and that has or can be reasonably predicted to have the effect of:

1. Causing physical or emotional harm to the student or their property.

2. Placing a student in reasonable fear of harm to their person or property.

3. Creating an intimidating, hostile, or abusive educational environment.

4. Interfering with a student’s academic performance or ability to participate in school activities.

This includes but is not limited to bullying based on disability, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or any other protected characteristic under state or federal law.

III. Reporting and Investigation Procedures

A. Reporting

• Any student, staff member, parent, or guardian may report an incident of bullying verbally or in writing to the AACA school administrator.

• Anonymous reports may be submitted; however, disciplinary action will not be taken solely based on an anonymous complaint.

B. Investigation

• Reports of bullying will be promptly investigated within five (5) school days of receipt.

• The investigation will include interviews with relevant parties, review of evidence, and a determination of whether bullying occurred.

• Confidentiality will be maintained to the extent possible while ensuring a thorough investigation.

C. Response and Consequences

• If bullying is confirmed, appropriate disciplinary action will be taken based on the severity of the behavior, up to and including suspension or expulsion in accordance with California law.

• Support services, including counseling or restorative justice practices, will be provided to both the victim and the offender.

• Retaliation against individuals reporting bullying is strictly prohibited and subject to disciplinary action.

IV. Prevention and Education

• AACA implements age-appropriate anti-bullying curriculum and staff training annually.

• Social-emotional learning programs are integrated to promote empathy, respect, and conflict resolution.

• This policy is distributed to students, parents, and staff annually and available on the school’s website.

V. Protection of Students with Disabilities

• If a student with a disability is a victim or perpetrator of bullying, an IEP (Individualized Education Program) meeting may be convened to determine appropriate interventions and supports.

• Staff will be trained in recognizing and addressing bullying that targets students with disabilities.

• Modifications, accommodations, or additional supervision may be provided as needed to ensure the student’s safety and access to education.

VI. Compliance and Review

• AACA complies with all state and federal reporting requirements regarding bullying incidents.

• This policy is reviewed annually and revised as necessary to ensure compliance with legal requirements and best practices.

For questions or to report an incident, please contact: Leslie Michelle Lmichelle@autismacademy.org

Administrator-Academy for Advancement of Children With Autism-(818 882-0200)