This bill mandates that school districts serving grades four through twelve conduct an annual multi-day program focused on bullying prevention and intervention. The program, lasting between three to five days, must include age-appropriate educational sessions covering topics such as bullying awareness, cyberbullying prevention, bystander intervention, empathy, and the creation of supportive peer relationships. Additionally, the bill requires that educational sessions be provided for school staff to promote a collaborative approach to bullying prevention. The Commissioner of Education is granted the authority to withhold state aid from districts that fail to comply with these requirements.
Furthermore, the bill establishes a mechanism for school districts to seek financial support from the Bullying Prevention Fund if they lack the necessary resources to implement the program. The fund, which is maintained by the Department of Education, will consist of state appropriations, donations, and investment earnings, and will be used to offer grants for training on harassment, intimidation, and bullying prevention. This legislation aims to enhance the educational environment by equipping students and staff with the tools needed to effectively address and prevent bullying in schools.