HIB

Understanding Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB) at Dover Public Schools

Dear Dover Public Schools Community,

Welcome to our informational section on Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB), crucial topics that impact the safety and well-being of our students. Our school is dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where every student feels valued and respected.

What is HIB? Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying, commonly referred to as HIB, encompass unwanted, aggressive behaviors that involve a real or perceived power imbalance. These behaviors can be verbal (such as teasing or threats), physical (such as hitting or pushing), or social (such as exclusion or spreading rumors), whether they occur in school, online, or in the community.

Why It Matters The effects of HIB extend beyond the immediate harm to the individuals involved. Persistent bullying can lead to long-term emotional and educational consequences for students, creating an atmosphere of fear and disrespect that undermines our educational mission.

In response, Dover Public Schools have implemented robust policies and procedures in line with New Jersey’s Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights Act. This section will outline your rights as parents, detail the steps we take to investigate and resolve incidents of HIB, and provide resources to support affected students.

By understanding the nature of bullying and our school’s policies against it, we can collaborate more effectively to ensure a safe and positive school experience for all our students.