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Dear School District of Philadelphia Families,
As we enter October and settle into the school year, we are proud to observe National Bullying Prevention Month. This reaffirms our commitment to fostering safe, inclusive schools that support all students’ social, emotional, and mental well-being. In line with these values, we continue to uphold a zero-tolerance policy regarding bullying, harassment, and discrimination, and encourage you to talk with your children this month about the importance of kindness and inclusion.
Understanding Bullying, Harassment, and Discrimination
Bullying, harassment, and discrimination are defined in Board Policies 248 and 249 as follows:
Bullying: An intentional act or series of acts directed at a student or students that has a continuing effect on the campus, and which is severe, persistent, or pervasive. Bullying substantially interferes with a student’s education, creates a threatening school environment, or substantially disrupts the orderly operation of a school.
Discrimination: Treating someone differently based on a real or perceived protected status—including race, color, ethnicity, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, shared ancestry and ethnic characteristics, national origin, marital status, pregnancy, English language proficiency, veteran status, and disability.
Harassment: Unwelcome conduct relating to the known or perceived protected status. Harassment is both subjectively and objectively offensive and is so severe or pervasive that it limits a student’s ability to participate in or benefit from school programs and opportunities.
How To Report Concerns
Report Concerns Promptly: If your child or someone they know experiences or witnesses bullying, harassment, or discrimination, please report it immediately using one of these reporting methods:
- Complete the online Bullying/Harassment Reporting Form
- Report the concern to a teacher, counselor, principal, or any school staff member
- Call the Bullying/Harassment Hotline at 215-400-SAFE.
- Safe2Say Something: Operators are available 24/7 via phone (1-844-723-2729) or live chat (safe2saypa.org).
Creating welcoming, safe schools is a shared responsibility, and we deeply appreciate your partnership in protecting our students’ well-being. For additional information, please visit philasd.org/studentrights/bhd.
Sincerely,
Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities