Strengthens school bullying laws by requiring county boards to adopt policies prohibiting harassment, intimidation, or bullying.

West Virginia HB5577 amends existing laws to strengthen county board policies against harassment, intimidation, or bullying. Each county board must establish a policy that includes a statement prohibiting such behavior, a definition, and procedures for reporting, documenting, and investigating incidents. The policy must also include a disciplinary procedure for students found guilty, confidentiality requirements, and a strategy for protecting victims from retaliation. The West Virginia Department of Education will develop a model policy and compile annual reports on reported incidents.

Strengthens school bullying laws by requiring county boards to adopt policies prohibiting harassment, intimidation, or bullying.

West Virginia HB5577 amends existing laws to strengthen county board policies against harassment, intimidation, or bullying. Each county board must establish a policy that includes a statement prohibiting such behavior, a definition, and procedures for reporting, documenting, and investigating incidents. The policy must also include a disciplinary procedure for students found guilty, confidentiality requirements, and a strategy for protecting victims from retaliation. The West Virginia Department of Education will develop a model policy and compile annual reports on reported incidents.