California Bullying Definition (EC §48900(r))

Bullying means any severe or pervasive physical or verbal act or conduct, including communications made in writing or by electronic means, directed toward one or more students that has the effect of:

1. Placing a reasonable student in fear of harm to themselves or their property
2. Causing a substantially detrimental effect on physical or mental health
3. Causing substantial interference with academic performance
4. Causing substantial interference with the ability to participate in school activities

Safe Place to Learn Act / Seth's Law (EC §234)

Requirements for Schools

• Adopt an anti-bullying policy that addresses all protected categories
• Post the policy on the school website
• Include the policy in parent and student notifications
• Ensure staff are trained to identify and respond to bullying
• Provide a complaint process for students and families

Protected Categories

Students are protected from bullying based on:

• Race, ethnicity, or national origin
• Gender, gender identity, or gender expression
• Sexual orientation
• Disability
• Religion
• Immigration status

EC §234.6 — Website Requirements

Each LEA must maintain on its website:

• Information about anti-bullying policies and procedures
• How to report bullying
• Resources for students experiencing bullying
• Information about the complaint process

AB 1165 (2023) — Racist Bullying

For bullying motivated by race, ethnicity, or national origin:

• Schools must consider restorative justice as a response
• Schools must document what interventions were used
• Schools must report data on bias-related bullying incidents

Dean/Counselor Investigation Steps

1. Interview the target — In a private, safe setting
2. Interview witnesses — Separately and confidentially
3. Interview the accused — Share specific allegations without identifying witnesses
4. Document everything — Written statements, dates, times, witnesses
5. Determine if bullying occurred — Apply the legal definition
6. Impose consequences and interventions — For the perpetrator
7. Create a safety plan — For the target
8. Notify parents/guardians — Of all involved students
9. Monitor and follow up — Check in regularly with the target