OAKLAND UNIFIED
SCHOOL DISTRICT
BP 5171
- Sexual Orientation
Students
The Governing Board of
the Oakland Unified School District is committed to addressing the safety needs
of all students and staff including needs related to actual or perceived sexual
orientation and gender identity.
The
District is committed to maintaining a discrimination-free learning environment
which teaches respect for all people, including those who do not conform to
traditional sex role stereotypes. The District acknowledges that sexual
minority youth, who frequently lack positive role models, experience
disproportionately higher rates of suicides and school dropouts.
The District has a
professional duty and obligation to understand the unique differences of its
diverse student and staff population and to address its educational, emotional
and social needs. Students shall be
assured they need not endure any form of harassment based on sexual orientation
or gender identity which impairs their educational environment or emotional
well-being at school. They shall
be informed that they should promptly contact the principal or designee if they
experience such discrimination.
The District acknowledges
that a key element in a sound educational program is providing students with an
understanding and appreciation of the differences of others. The District seeks to assure students
and their family members and caregivers that their needs related to sexual
orientation and gender identity will be addressed in a forthright and sensitive
manner.
The Superintendent or
designee shall ensure that students receive age-appropriate information and
education related to sexual orientation and gender identity. The District will
implement staff development programs for all school employees and address the
needs of students and staff related to sexual orientation and gender identity.
In accordance with District policy and state law, all schools will develop a
site-specific plan for addressing issues related to sexual orientation and
gender identity. The plan will
include staff development for all school employees and the development of
resources and education for students.
The District has zero
tolerance for slurs and harassment related to sexual orientation and gender
identity. Violations of this policy may result in discipline, up to and
including suspension and expulsion or termination. Any persons who are not employees or students at the school
(e.g., parents, visiting speakers or members of a visiting athletic team) who
violate this policy shall be subject to immediate and appropriate corrective
action depending on the level of control the District has over the offender.
The District prohibits
retaliation against any complainant or participant in the complaint
process. Information relating to a
complaint of discrimination based on actual or perceived sexual orientation or
gender identity shall be confidential to the extent possible. Individuals involved in the
investigation of such a complaint shall be instructed to not discuss related
information outside of the investigation process.
The District will
establish staffing for permanent and on-going support services related to
sexual orientation and gender identity issues. Curricula and materials will be developed and implemented
which address the issues of this underserved population. All schools will be provided with
training in the use of these curricula and materials.
The District will adopt
personnel policies that are sensitive to sexual orientation and gender identity
to ensure employment protection for all staff members.
07/14/04