The Connecticut anti-bullying statute was specifically designed with language reflecting reform on multiple levels. Two specific points addressed are intended to tackle the issue in both the classroom and at home. Schools are required to implement new systems and procedures to ensure the bill is successful. These academic institutions are receiving a one-year grace period in which they are expected to pull together the necessary funds, establish and initiate new safety committees.
The anti-bullying statute was drawn up with language specifically addressing how communities may ensure the bill successfully eliminates peer bullying. Each school and its administrative staff is required to establish and maintain a committee comprised of at least one local resident. This resident is required to be either the parent or legal guardian of a child in attendance at the applicable school. Students may also anonymously report bullying incidents.
The anti-bullying bill requires all Connecticut schools to implement a Safe School Climate Plan. The plan must be approved by the local school board and submitted to the Department of Education for its approval. Each school district is also required to appoint a person to the new post of climate specialist. This individual's responsibilities include tracking and reporting incidents at schools and how issues are addressed and get resolved.
The introduction and implementation of computers into the school environment forces teachers and students to deal with Internet safety in various ways. Easy access to social networking sites means students find ways to continue bullying their peers after exiting school grounds. The anti-bullying bill identifies this technique as cyber-bullying and specifically addresses the issues surrounding it throughout its language. Both parents and students may report incidents stemming from online encounters that become abusive and the school in question is legally required to investigate and report on the matter.