A federal government website managed by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
200 Independence Avenue, S.W. - Washington, D.C. 20201
Virginia Anti-Bullying Laws & Policies
What term is used in the Virginia anti-bullying laws?
Bullying, harassment, or intimidation.
Do these laws cover cyberbullying?
Yes.
What groups are listed under Virginia state law?
Although not limited to behavior based on characteristics, the following groups are listed under Virginia state law:
- Race
- Gender
- Religion
- Physical abilities
Schools that receive federal funding are required by federal law to address discrimination on a number of different personal characteristics. Find out when bullying may be a civil rights violation.
Is there a state model policy I can use to create anti-bullying policies at my school or district?
The Virginia Department of Education provides model policies on cyberbulling and student conduct.
Which of the key components can be found in Virginia anti-bullying laws and policies?
Key Components | Present in Virginia State Laws | Present in Virginia Model Policy |
---|---|---|
DEFINITIONS | ||
YES | YES | |
YES | YES | |
YES | YES | |
YES | YES | |
DISTRICT POLICY REVIEW & DEVELOPMENT | ||
YES | N/A | |
NO | N/A | |
DISTRICT POLICY COMPONENTS | ||
YES | N/A | |
NO | YES | |
NO | YES | |
NO | NO | |
YES | YES | |
NO | NO | |
ADDITIONAL COMPONENTS | ||
YES | YES | |
YES | YES | |
YES | YES | |
YES | NO |
NOTE: Click on the Key Components links to get more information about that component.
What are the Virginia state laws that cover bullying?
- Virginia Code Annotated §8.01-220.1:2 – Civil immunity for teachers under certain circumstances
- Virginia Code Annotated §22.1-208.01 – Character education
- Virginia Code Annotated §22.1-279.3:1 – Reports of certain acts to school authorities; local law enforcement authorities to report
- Virginia Code Annotated §22.1-279.6 – Board of education guidelines and model policies for codes of student conduct
For More Information
See “Bullying Prevention” from the Virginia Department of Education.
Information for this page was developed from “Analysis of State Bullying Laws and Policies – December 2011” (U.S. Department of Education).