Cyber Bullying is a form of harassment and a violation of the Student Code of Conduct. It will not be tolerated. Any student found responsible and in violation will be subject to immediate disciplinary action and permanent suspension from Danville Area Community College. Any case of cyber bullying that is determined to be of a criminal or legal nature will be referred to local authorities.

Cyber bullying occurring through use of the district internet system or use of personal digital devices, such as cell phones, digital cameras, personal computers, and PDAs, while on campus is unacceptable. Cyber bullying activities occurring off-campus can cause significant emotional harm to students. When students are emotionally harmed they may present a danger to themselves and to others.

Cyber Bullying Background

Cyber bullying is occurring both within the school and college environment and off campus. Sometimes students are using the college or district internet system – during classes, after college activities, or at home. Students may also use personal digital devices while at college, such as cell phones, digital cameras, PDAs, and personal computers to engage in cyber bullying. In increasing numbers, students are bringing personal digital devices to college with the expectation that these devices will be used in the classroom for instructional activities. Misuse of the college internet system and personal digital devices on campus is clearly a concern that will be addressed once brought to the attention of college officials.

There are many emerging reports of fights and other altercations, as well as reports of students who are so significantly emotionally harmed that they are avoiding school, forced to change schools, or simply failing. Also, there are increasing reports of youth suicide associated with cyber bullying. It is this combination of online harm and on-campus interactions that presents significant concerns and risks for the safety of the students.