The Monmouth County Vocational School District is committed to providing a safe and supportive learning environment for all students. In accordance with the New Jersey Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights Act, the District has implemented a comprehensive set of policies and procedures to address harassment, intimidation, and bullying (HIB).

“Harassment, intimidation, or bullying” means any gesture, any written, verbal or physical act, or any electronic communication, as defined in N.J.S.A. 18A:37-14, whether it be a single incident or a series of incidents that:

1. Is reasonably perceived as being motivated by either any actual or perceived characteristic, such as race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, or a mental, physical or sensory disability, or by any other distinguishing characteristic;

2. Takes place on school property, at any school-sponsored function, on a school bus, or off school grounds, as provided for in N.J.S.A. 18A:37-15.3;

3. Substantially disrupts or interferes with the orderly operation of the school or the rights of other students; and that

a. A reasonable person should know, under the circumstances, that the act(s) will have the effect of physically or emotionally harming a student or damaging the student’s property, or placing a student in reasonable fear of physical or emotional harm to their person or damage to their property; or

 b. Has the effect of insulting or demeaning any student or group of students; or

 C. Creates a hostile educational environment for the student by interfering with a student’s education or by severely or pervasively causing physical or emotional harm to the student.

The Board recognizes that bullying is unwanted, aggressive behavior that may involve a real or perceived power imbalance.  Recognizing “a real or perceived power imbalance” may assist school officials in identifying harassment, intimidation, or bullying within the context and relative positions of the alleged aggressor and target.

Students, parents, and staff are encouraged to report incidents of HIB. Reports can be made in person, in writing, or anonymously through the district's reporting system. All reports will be taken seriously and will be investigated promptly and thoroughly.

• Harassment, Intimidation, or Bullying (HIB) Reporting Form 2024-2025 School Year (Families/Caregivers)

• Harassment, Intimidation, or Bullying (HIB) Mandatory Reporting Form 2024-2025 School Year (LEA Personnel)

• Additional Language Options

If an act of HIB is confirmed, the District will take appropriate disciplinary action and provide remedial measures to prevent further incidents. Depending on the severity and history of the incident, consequences may range from positive behavioral interventions to suspension or removal from a program. Remedial actions may include counseling, behavioral support, and educational programs.

It is important to note even if a behavior does not meet the definition of HIB, the District may take appropriate action to address code of conduct violations and challenging student behavior.

The District is committed to preventing HIB through education, training, and fostering a positive school climate. We offer regular training to staff and students to promote a positive culture of respect and acceptance.

If you have any questions or concerns about the district's HIB policies, please contact the district's Anti-Bullying Coordinator or your student's School Anti-Bullying Specialist.

Sean Meehan

Monmouth County Vocational School District

4000 Kozloski Rd

Freehold, New Jersey 07728

732-431-7942, Extension 6

• MCVSD HIB Grade Report (Published )

• New Jersey Department of Education HIB Information: Visit Website

• Parent and Student Guides: Download PDF (Published 2012)

• NJDOE’s State School Climate Coordinator - hib@doe.nj.gov

• MCVSD Policy 5512: Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying (M)