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Dignity for All Students

Bullying, Harassment and Discrimination in NYS Public Schools

A guide for parents
 

In July 2010, the Dignity for All Students Act – or DASA – was established to promote a safe and supportive learning environment in all public schools, free from harassment and discrimination from other students and adults. 

DASA establishes a number of standards for schools, when it comes to instruction, certain district policies and procedures and identifying and reporting incidents of bullying, harassment and discrimination in school.

"No student shall be subjected to harassment or bullying by employees or students on school property or at a school function; nor shall any student be subjected to discrimination based on a person’s actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender, or sex." (State Education Laws of 2010, Effective: July 1, 2012)

Click here to read the legislation.

Click here to read the Marcellus Central School District Dignity for All Students policy.


REMEMBER: Bullying almost always requires adult intervention.

Roles kids play in a bullying situation:
  • Kids who bully: These children engage in bullying behavior toward their peers. There are many factors that may contribute to this behavior. Often, these youth require support to change their behavior and address any other challenges that may be influencing them. Don’t hesitate to speak to a counselor at your child’s school and ask for help.
     
  • Kids who are bullied: Some factors put children at greater risk of being bullied,. If you are worried that your child is being bullied seek help from school administration or counselors right away.
     
  • Bystanders: Even kids who are not bullies and who are not bullied are impacted by bullying behavior. They witness it happening and they may either encourage it, avoid it or try to discourage it. These children may need support and help to deal with the bullying they observe; your school counselor can help!

Most kids play more than one role in bullying over time. It is important to note the multiple roles kids play, because those who are both bullied and bully others may be at more risk for negative outcomes, such as depression or suicidal tendencies. It also highlights the need to engage all kids in prevention efforts, not just those who are known to be directly involved.

Tip 411

Report bullying incidents anonymously using tip411.

Frequently Asked DASA Questions

Dignity Act Coordinators

DASA requires every school in New York State to have a dignity act coordinator. This is someone who is trained to handle incidents of bullying and harassment in schools and is another important contact for parents.

KCH: Bethany Woods
bwoods@marcellusschools.org
(315) 673-6109

DMS: Maura McAnaney (4-6)
mmcananey@marcellusschools.org
(315) 673-6210

DMS: Eric Guercio (7-8)
eguercio@marcellusschools.org
(315) 673-6210

SHS: Lisa Hitchcock
lhitchcock@marcellusschools.org
(315) 673-6307
 

For more information about DASA in your school, contact your school’s Dignity Act Coordinator. 


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