Sexual Harassment at Schools

Whether in the classroom, in the hallways, or during after school activities, sexual harassment is never okay.
 
In Pennsylvania, the Human Relations Act of 1955 prohibits discrimination on the basis of gender, including sexual harassment.

The federal law prohibiting sexual harassment in schools is Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, which prohibits any person, on the basis of sex, to be subjected to discrimination in an educational program.  Under Title IX, a school is required to have and distribute a policy against sex discrimination, particularly one that addresses sexual harassment.

“Quid pro quo” Sexual Harassment

When a person in authority puts conditions on grades or participation in extra-curricular activities, dependent on the student’s willingness to submit to sexual activity. 

  • A teacher lowering a grade if a student refuses their sexual advances
  • A coach basing team assignments on the athlete’s willingness to submit to sexual advances

 

“Hostile environment” Sexual Harassment

When unwanted sexual conduct interferes with an individual’s ability to learn or feel safe in the school environment.

  • Offensive language & notes
  • Vulgar graffiti
  • Unwanted physical contact

    Facts About Sexual Harassment in Schools
     
    Students are increasingly being harassed via e-mail, IM, and text messaging. This type of harassment can become chronic and vicious because of the sense of anonymity and the speed with which it can be sent.

     
  • 4 out of 5 students have been sexually harassed
  • 2 in 10 students fear someone will hurt or bother them in school
  • 5 in 10 students say they have sexually harassed someone else
  • 160,000 students skip school each day to avoid potential sexual harassment
  • The #1 way boys sexually harass other boys is by calling them “gay”
  • The #1 way girls sexually harass other girls is through spreading sexual rumors
  • 32% of students were harassed before 6th grade
  • 1:3 girls and 1:5 boys report that sexual harassment occurs “often”

 

Resources for Students & Teachers