As parents or educators we need to help them understand that we will be there to support them if they stand up for themselves. Educators need to make the school a place where harassing behavior is not accepted and respect is the norm. Title IX of the educational amendments says sexual harassment is illegal and prohibits sex discrimination including sexual harassment. In order to change what is happening, we need to follow these guidelines. We need to educate ourselves and others on sexual harassment.
Teachers can request and attend workshops on sexual harassment.
We need to make sure our schools have clear policies and that they follow them. Schools should organize support groups for victims. Students both male and female need to be assured that there are parents and teachers whom they can turn to who will fight against sexual harassment. When a teacher sees harassing taking place, they should handle the situation with discretion. Teachers should not make a student feel they have to report the harassing before an adult will intervene on their behalf.