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Virginia Anti-Bullying Laws & Policies

What term is used in the Virginia anti-bullying laws?

Bullying, harassment, or intimidation.

Do these laws cover cyberbullying?

Yes.  

What groups are listed under Virginia state law?

Although not limited to behavior based on characteristics, the following groups are listed under Virginia state law:

• Race
• Gender
• Religion
• Physical abilities
• Characteristics of the associates of the targeted person

Schools that receive federal funding are required by federal law to address discrimination on a number of different personal characteristics. Find out when bullying may be a civil rights violation.

Is there a state model policy I can use to create anti-bullying policies at my school or district?

The Virginia Department of Education is in the process of developing a model policy for preventing and addressing bullying for 2012-2013. The Student Conduct Policy Guidelines are available at the Virgnia Department of Education website.

Which of the key components can be found in Virginia anti-bullying laws and policies?

NOTE: Click on the Key Components links to get more information about that component.

What are the Virginia state laws that cover bullying?

• Virginia Code Annotated §8.01-220.1:2 – Civil immunity for teachers under certain circumstances
• Virginia Code Annotated § 9.1-184. Virginia Center for School Safety created; duties 
• Virginia Code Annotated §22.1-208.01 – Character education 
• Virginia Code Annotated §22.1-279.3:1 – Reports of certain acts to school authorities 
• Virginia Code Annotated §22.1-279.6 – Board of education guidelines and model policies for codes of student conduct 

For More Information

See “Bullying Prevention” from the Virginia Department of Education.

Information for this page was developed from “Analysis of State Bullying Laws and Policies – December 2011” (U.S. Department of Education).