Some forms of harassment which gay, lesbian, and bisexual students encounter can be considered both sexual harassment and sexual orientation harassment. Sexual harassment can be committed by teachers, staff, administrators, or even other students. Unwelcome, hostile, or intimidating behavior or speech of a sexual nature imposed on the basis of sex which pervades an educational environment and unreasonably interferes with your ability to obtain an education may constitute unlawful sexual harassment. Sexually harassing behaviors can include sexual insults, off-color humor, physical contact, and verbal or physical intimidation. There is no bright line test for sexual harassment or sexual orientation harassment.
All students have the right to attend school in a safe and productive learning environment.
Massachusetts has adopted specific laws and guidelines intended to protect students from discrimination or harassment that may interfere with educational opportunities. Sometimes students who are harassed are privately questioning their sexual orientation. Although often unreported, incidents of harassment and discrimination occur in many schools. In some schools, students have been forced to endure unfair treatment or an environment pervaded by harassing words and actions. In Massachusetts, however, you have the right to put a stop to this behavior.