HTH Anti-Bullying, Anti-Discrimination, and Harassment Prevention

High Tech High is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and respectful learning environment for all students. Discrimination, harassment, intimidation, and bullying are not tolerated and are addressed promptly when reported.

HTH School Policies Prohibiting Discrimination, Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying

The school prohibits discrimination, harassment, intimidation, and bullying based on actual or perceived characteristics, including:

• Disability

• Gender

• Gender identity

• Gender expression

• Nationality

• Race or ethnicity

• Religion

• Sexual orientation

• Association with a person or group with one or more of these characteristics

These protections apply to all school programs and activities.

Definition of Bullying and Cyberbullying

Bullying is any severe or pervasive physical or verbal act or conduct, including communications made in writing or by means of an electronic act, directed toward one or more students that has or can reasonably be predicted to:

• Place a student in fear of harm

• Cause a detrimental effect on physical or mental health

• Interfere with academic performance

• Interfere with participation in school activities

Cyberbullying includes bullying through electronic communication such as text messages, social media, or online platforms.

Social Media Bullying Awareness

Social media bullying (cyberbullying) can occur on a wide range of online platforms, including:

• Websites and apps with free and easy registration
  (e.g., social networking platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, or Snapchat where users can quickly create accounts)

• Peer-to-peer messaging platforms
  (e.g., text messaging or direct messaging through apps such as iMessage, WhatsApp, or Discord)

• Websites with comment sections or discussion forums
  (e.g., platforms such as Reddit, blogs, or video/comment threads where users can post public responses)

• Image or video sharing platforms
  (e.g., platforms such as YouTube or TikTok where users post photos, videos, or livestream content)

Cyberbullying may include:

• Sending threatening or harmful messages

• Posting embarrassing or altered images or videos

• Impersonating another person online

• Excluding individuals from online groups

• Spreading rumors or false information

These behaviors may occur on or off campus but can still have a significant impact on the school environment and student well-being.

Students and families are encouraged to report incidents and seek support through school administration or available resources.

*** New platforms and applications emerge frequently; these examples are illustrative and not exhaustive

Reporting Procedures

Students, parents, and staff are encouraged to report incidents of discrimination, harassment, intimidation, or bullying.

Reports may be made:

• To any teacher, counselor, or administrator

• Directly to the school site office

• Through an online reporting form (if applicable)

Reports may be made anonymously; however, providing contact information may assist in follow-up.

Investigation Process

All reports are taken seriously and investigated promptly. The school will:

• Review all relevant information

• Interview involved parties as appropriate

• Take steps to stop misconduct and prevent recurrence

• Provide support to affected students

Additional Resources:
California Anti-Bullying Laws & Policies

CDE Bullying & Hate Motivated Behavior Prevention

CDE Bullying & Hate Motivated Behavior Prevention Training & Resources