Board receives refresher on HIB investigations: 10-day timeline, 90-day appeal window explained

Dr. Fisher led a training for board members on harassment, intimidation and bullying (HIB) procedures during the May 13 meeting, reviewing the legal standard, investigation timeline and the board's role when cases are appealed.

"When we talk about HIB... we are looking at the act, motivation, disruption and impact," Dr. Fisher said, summarizing the three-pronged test used to determine whether an incident falls under the Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights. She emphasized that cases require evaluation of intent, power imbalance and whether the behavior substantially disrupted the orderly operation of the school.

Dr. Fisher explained the formal reporting and investigation process: any member of the school community can complete the online incident form to start an investigation, the district has 10 days to complete the investigation, families are notified within a day that the investigation has started and a written executive summary goes to the board. Following the board review, families have 10 days to request an appeal to the board and then 90 days to appeal to the commissioner of education.

Board members asked whether incidents at sports events or off-campus activities could fall under HIB. Dr. Fisher replied that conduct on buses, school grounds or at school functions normally falls under HIB and that off-campus conduct may be covered if it substantially disrupts the school environment. She also described district resources such as peer mediation and restorative practices used for student conflict that does not meet HIB thresholds.

The training emphasized confidentiality and FERPA compliance when the board reviews HIB executive summaries in closed session and underscored trustees' obligation to remain objective and base decisions on the recorded investigation.