Anti-Bullying Policy
Anti-Bullying Policy for Rhode Island Youth Theatre
Purpose: Rhode Island Youth Theatre (RIYT) is dedicated to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all participants, staff, and volunteers. This policy is designed to prevent and address bullying behaviors that may occur within the realm of RIYT activities and events, while also acknowledging the limitations of RIYT's jurisdiction.
Definition of Bullying: Bullying encompasses aggressive, harmful, or inappropriate behavior that is intentional, repetitive, and directed toward a person or group. It can manifest as verbal, physical, relational, or cyberbullying. However, RIYT's responsibility and jurisdiction are limited to actions occurring during RIYT activities and within the presence of RIYT staff.
Scope: This policy applies to all individuals associated with RIYT, including students, parents/guardians, staff, volunteers, and anyone participating in RIYT activities on RIYT premises or during official rehearsal and performance times. RIYT recognizes that bullying occurring outside of these contexts, such as online or through personal interactions, is not within its direct jurisdiction.
Policy Guidelines:
Prevention:
RIYT will actively promote a culture of respect and inclusion within its activities and events.
RIYT will provide education and awareness about bullying behaviors within the context of its activities.
Reporting:
Any bullying behavior that occurs during RIYT activities, rehearsals, or performances should be reported promptly to a trusted RIYT staff member or designated authority.
Reports can be made in person, in writing, or anonymously if preferred. All reports will be treated with seriousness and confidentiality to the extent possible.
Investigation:
RIYT will conduct thorough and impartial investigations into reported bullying incidents that occur during RIYT activities.
Investigations will be carried out by individuals with appropriate training and experience.
Consequences:
Consequences for bullying during RIYT activities may include suspension from activities or expulsion from RIYT in severe cases.
Disciplinary actions will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may be subject to the severity and repetition of the bullying behavior.
Support and Resolution:
RIYT is committed to providing support for those affected by bullying during RIYT activities, including resources for both victims and perpetrators.
A resolution plan will be created to address the issue and monitor progress, ensuring that bullying ceases and a safe environment is restored.
Non-RIYT-Related Bullying:
RIYT acknowledges that bullying that occurs outside of its activities, not in the presence of RIYT staff, or outside of rehearsal and performance times is beyond its direct jurisdiction.
RIYT encourages individuals affected by such non-RIYT-related bullying to seek help and resolution through appropriate channels, such as school authorities, law enforcement, or relevant online platforms.
Communication: This policy will be communicated to all students, parents/guardians, staff, and volunteers through the RIYT website, handbooks, meetings, and other appropriate channels.
Review: This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to reflect changes in legislation, best practices, and the specific needs of RIYT.
Approval: This policy is approved by Rhode Island Youth Theatre and will take effect immediately upon approval.