This section from our employee handbook is published here in compliance with California AB 500.

Healthy School Climate and Anti-Harassment Policy

WSP students, faculty, staff, and visitors have the right to learn and work in an environment free from discrimination and harassment. Harassment based on religion, race, color, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental disability, socio-economic status, physical or genetic characteristic, or marital status is strictly prohibited. No community member or visitor is expected to endure any form of harassment. Harassment can occur on or off campus, between peers of different or the same gender, and between people where there is a hierarchical difference, such as student and teacher. Harassment can be obvious or subtle and include derogatory comments, epithets, slurs, innuendoes, jokes, sexually suggestive gestures, unwanted touching, staring at sexual body parts, obstructing regular movements, assault, threats, or demands. The school will take action for these serious breaches of respect based on the circumstances; such action could include restorative justice measures, detention, education, counseling, suspension, or dismissal/expulsion.

On-campus or off-campus harassment or sexual harassment through social media is also prohibited. At times, what may seem like a “joking” comment may actually create an uncomfortable or intimidating situation for other community members. WSP educates students about offensive behaviors and expects all members of the community to refrain from swearing, obscene or antisocial language and gestures, and the demeaning use of humor whether verbal, physical or sexual.

To maintain a healthy school climate that is sensitive to and respectful of every member, anyone who has been or is being harassed should speak promptly with the School Administrator, Pedagogical Administrator, Director of Finance & Operations, or any other trusted school official.

The following guidelines and information will help anyone who becomes a target or a bystander who witnesses verbal, physical or sexually discriminatory or harassing behavior on or off campus:

• Let the offending person know that you want the behavior to stop. Say “No” firmly. Do not apologize. Speak directly and give a clear message about what you observe as the problem. If the behavior does not change, speak with one of the adults listed above.
• If you do not feel comfortable speaking directly to the person about his/her behavior at the time of the incident, you may ask a friend or another adult to be with you as an advocate and witness when you speak with the offender. Another option is to write a letter (keep a copy) including a description of the incident and the behavior that was objectionable.
• If you have previously put up with the behavior, but now would like for it to stop, speak up to tell the harasser to stop and then speak with an advocate listed above. If you feel uncomfortable speaking with one of the advocates listed above, or you do not feel listened to or do not feel satisfied with the actions taken, you should speak directly with the School Administrator or the President of the Board of Trustees.
• During the process of investigation and disciplinary action, if harassment is established, the privacy of all parties involved will be respected as much as possible given the nature of the situation. WSP prohibits retaliation against anyone who complains or who stands up as an advocate for a healthy school climate free from harassment and discrimination.