The board attorney provided an extensive presentation on the legal framework of HIB, emphasizing the need for schools to create a safe and respectful environment. This presentation served as a starting point for a series of discussions among board members regarding the practical implications of addressing HIB in the educational setting. The attorney outlined the criteria for determining HIB incidents, including the location of the incident, the act itself, the motivation behind the act, and the substantial disruption or interference caused by the act. The board members reflected on the impact of bullying on students’ well-being and educational experience, expressing the necessity for effective prevention and intervention strategies.

A case in point involved an incident where a student was compared to Donald Trump by a classmate due to a hairstyle. The board concluded that this did not meet the criteria for disciplinary action as it did not substantially disrupt or interfere with the school’s operation or the student’s rights. Another case highlighted involved a student who airdropped an unflattering picture of another student, which prompted an investigation into the credibility of witnesses and the decision-making process.

Superintendent Shanley stressed that colleges mainly consider discipline at the secondary level and that earlier incidents do not typically bear on post-secondary education. She also mentioned the rare but necessary instances of consulting with law enforcement when behavior might violate the New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice, and the possibility of municipal courts fining parents for their children’s cyber harassment.

During the meeting, the board differentiated between code of conduct violations and HIB cases, clarifying that not every code of conduct violation qualifies as HIB. The revised HIB reporting form, including a timestamp box, a signature page, and an anonymous reporting option, was discussed, aiming to ensure thorough documentation of incidents. The board also outlined the process for conducting HIB investigations, emphasizing the responsibilities of the anti-bullying specialist, the superintendent, and the board of education. They touched upon the timeline for investigations and subsequent actions, including discipline, intervention services, or training programs, and highlighted the importance of communicating investigation outcomes to parents.

The consequences for HIB violations were also addressed, with discussions on the interventions for first, second, and third acts of HIB. The potential for counseling, behavior intervention services, and the development of individual student intervention plans were considered, with the superintendent requiring approval for such plans. The inclusion of investigation reports in students’ records, if there is a finding, was noted to cause concern among some parents.

Superintendent Shanley provided clarity on almost 99% of cases where discipline is imposed for code of conduct violations, with the possibility of a separate HIB investigation. In instances where a hearing is required within 10 days of an appeal, the district may need to schedule a special meeting or seek agreement for a later date. Shanley also addressed the burden of proof in HIB allegations, noting that anti-bullying specialists assess credibility to determine if the elements of a HIB incident are met.

Throughout the discussions, board members emphasized the impact on victims and the perception of behavior by others in HIB determinations.

In other business, the board nominated and approved Heather Gomez to continue as the board president and Nicole Dunne as the vice president. The board considered extending the time limit for public comments, with the bylaw committee to review potential changes.

During the open public session, a community member expressed concerns about the communication delays and handling of a HIB investigation involving their child. The board acknowledged the concerns without further action in the public forum.

The superintendent provided updates and announcements, including a request for a representative from the Board of Education to join an ad hoc flood committee at the borough level and paid tribute to Peggy Sasa, a respected community member and educator, who had recently passed away.

As the meeting closed, the board reflected on the loss of Peggy Sasa, acknowledging her contributions to the community and the local public school system. The board members expressed their admiration for her influence as a leader and role model before officially adjourning the meeting.