From the Archives: Nov. 13, 1992.

The administrators now recognize sexual harassment among students as a “suspendable offense.”

Girls have described incidents where guys have made comments openly to them regarding their chest size and buttocks. Some even express their sexual desires to he individual they are harassing. While everyone interviewed admitted to being sexually harassed, none were willing to be put on record about their experience. Fear of reliving a resolved or unresolved incident is the main reason why they want to remain anonymous.

Although students have admitted to being sexually harassed and feel strongly against this type of behavior, they are reluctant to report anything for fear administrators will not be able to distinguish between harassment, flirting or just playful actions with each other.

Sophomore Hope Gillis said, “In order to be able to distinguish sexual harassment with other behaviors, the administrators should have a thorough examination of the case. Even if they think one person is lying. Then from there, make a definite conclusion on what actions should take place.” The three people interviewed feel that it is sexual harassment when the perpetrator is aware that their victim is uncomfortable with their behavior. Nevertheless, some aggressors don’t realize exactly how serious their “joke” may be.

It is evident that sexual harassment at school can deter a person from attending classes and affect education tremendously. Gillis said, “It’s really disturbing to have to face this torment every time you go to class.”

    Assistant Principal Pat Lynch is aware of the threat the victims of sexual harassment face. “There is a process that is taken up when dealing with sexual harassment. Students need to feel safe mentally and physically at school. If they don’t, they should see one of the authorities. We need to discuss this topic further in class where it can be discussed openly,” she said.

Some students agree that sexual harassment at school is not prevalent. However, students who have been sexually harassed feel that the issue has not been getting the attention and exposure it should. The Nov. 1 feature story in last year’s Bark opened the eyes of students who were oblivious to what was happening to a surprising number of individuals at school.

As stated by the Educational Code, the rule concerning sexual harassment goes into effect as of Jan. 1, 1993. In the past, students have been suspended for disruptive behavior and vulgar or obscene acts.  This offense has been defined as “unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal, visual, or physical conduct of a sexual nature, made by someone from or in the work or educational setting.”

A lot of sexual comments are made innocently or jokingly. However, if the student on the receiving end feels the comments are embarrassing, demeaning, or offensive, then it is considered sexual harassment. Lynch said, “I think people need to be more sensitive to others’ feelings. We need to take a look at how we treat one another.”