Bullying Policy

At Epiphany there is a major focus on community.  We work hard to celebrate and recognize one another’s achievements and successes.  We work hard to hold one another accountable.  Furthermore Epiphany self-identifies as a place that is hospitable and welcoming to all, a place where students and their families form deep bonds.  Bullying therefore goes against the atmosphere we are trying to create here together.  It is prohibited.  

 Definitions of bullying and cyber-bullying 

We are working hard to fight against bullying.  We want to be available to any victims.  We want to empower bystanders to confront those who bully.  We want to make those who bully aware of the serious consequences of their behavior.  As such we are working to educate our community about bullying and are actively engaged in the work to prevent bullying. 

Our policies are being given to parents/guardians and are printed in the school handbook.

Our entire community – students and faculty members – are engaged and concerned about bullying and bullying prevention.  

Parents, guardians, and students should be aware that students can be given consequences for bullying even if it takes place off of school grounds.  Epiphany students are forbidden to bully.  Those who do may be suspended.  Students who engage in repeated instances of bullying may be asked to seek an alternative placement. 

 Report Bullying or Retaliation

Any student who feels he or she or any other student has been the subject of bullying or retaliation should immediately report the matter to a faculty member with whom he or she feels comfortable. Student reports of bullying may be made anonymously, but it is highly unlikely that disciplinary action will be taken against a student solely based on an anonymous report. Any faculty or staff member of our school community who has witnessed or otherwise “become aware” of any bullying or retaliation also should report it to the principal.

School Response to Allegations of Bullying or Retaliation

Once an allegation of bullying or retaliation is received, the Principal and/or Deans of Students will process the allegation appropriately. 

If they determine that there has been an instance of bullying or retaliation the consequences my include:

• Notification of the local law enforcement agency if they believe that criminal charges may be pursued against a perpetrator
• Disciplinary action (up to suspension and dismissal)
• Notification of the parents/guardians of the perpetrator
• Notification of the parents/guardians of the victim, and to the extent consistent with state and federal law, notify them of the actions to prevent any further acts of bullying or retaliation
• Assessment of the victim’s need for protection and take appropriate steps as necessary to restore a sense of safety for the victim
• Assessement of the victim and perpetrator’s need for counseling and provide referral

In taking disciplinary action the school will try to balance the need for accountability with the need to teach appropriate behavior.  If a student makes a false accusation of bullying or retaliation, the Deans of Students will take appropriate disciplinary action.