School Bullying: How Long is the Arm of the Law

This guide reviews anti-bullying measures passed by state legislatures and examines the fate of school district policies that have been challenged in court. In addition, included are valuable discussions on varying issues surrounding school bullying.

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Antibullying is a cause embraced at every level of society, from the grass roots to the federal government. Yet despite well-published efforts to tackle it, bullying persists. The consequences for students and for the educational community are always painful, and sometime tragic. The law has responded to the problem of bullying at the state and local level, through the adoption of statutes and state or local policies. This guide reviews state statutes and case law concerning bullying, explores the constitutional issues that arise from the application of antibullying regulations, examines federal guidance on harassment, and offers suggestions for a systematic approach to bullying.