A ninth-grader at West Lutheran High School endured sexual harassment multiple times during the school year 2014-15. The school did not do anything to help stop the abuse. They forbid the victim from returning to the school for the following year.
This didn’t go down well with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights. They filed a lawsuit against the school and are still in the process of winning the case. It’s a huge step in the right direction. This student may be able to collect financial recompensation and a formal apology from the school.
Are These Cases Rare?
Unfortunately, cases like this are all too common. High schools report that around 40% of female students face sexual harassment and abuse. Schools should be more vigilant on the type of behavior they allow. Cracking down on any small act of harassment can change behavior for the better.
Controversies are surrounding female dress code as well. Some staff members have ridiculed or embarrassed their students for their choice of clothing. Dress codes for girls are notoriously stricter than that of the boys. Students shouldn’t be accosted based on their clothing.
Are Schools Safe?
A question that everyone is asking recently. Schools are becoming the primary site of shootings and other violent acts. It’s not always a black and white case either. According to Keller Law Offices, 15% of shooters are diagnosed as mentally ill.
A school is only as safe as it allows itself to be. Policies should be enforced more vigilantly, to avoid further cases of harassment from taking place.
If violence and harassment are dealt with directly, it could minimize the chances of more shootings. An open discussion with students about mental health is a good starting point.
What Can You Do?
If you feel like you or your child are at risk of any of these issues, speak to your local Human Rights Department. As in the above case, they can get involved on your behalf. Some local courthouses may also look into cases of school neglect.
If you believe that their school has failed your child or any other student, contact your local courthouse. They will either take the case further or offer you some advice.
Conclusion
Cases such as this high school ignoring their student’s well-being need to be stopped. It is interesting to note that rather than tell boys to quit staring at girls, we’re forcing young women to follow strict dress codes not to distract males students. Instead, we should teach boys to stop staring and allow everyone to dress comfortably.
By contacting the right authorities can help prevent the unnecessary suffering of more students; as well as protect people’s ability to express their unique style.
