The U.S. Supreme Court recently ruled that public schools may be sued for failing to confront students who harass their classmates. This article explains the ruling, defines three levels of peer harassment, and outlines guidelines for school officials. Swift investigations and legally defensible policies and procedures are essential. (MLH)

Recent federal rulings suggest that schools can no longer ignore student-to-student sexual harassment. Harassing behavior is a warning sign that the harasser may be a sexual abuse victim or an incipient juvenile sex offender. Bullying and sexual harassment are not the same. Guidelines for administrators are included. (MLH)

As shown by a West Virginia case involving allegations of student touching, principals are challenged to provide a safe environment for both students and staff members. Although court decisions generally favor school districts, they reveal the importance of a documented warning, a prudent investigation, and a sound board decision. (MLH)