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CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- For the first time in assert history, gay and lesbian students will be expressly protected from school bullying after the West Virginia Stay of Education unanimously adopted a new anti-bullying policy Wednesday.
Under the new procedure, bullying based on 13 categories including race, belief, ethnicity, and sexual orientation and "gender identity or passion" qualifies as a Level 3 disciplinary offense.
Punishments for harassment can break down from detention to suspension from school for 10 days. Students can also be punished for "low-class or offensive speech" online if it disrupts school scholarship.
"Students and teachers alike are entitled to a strongbox educational environment," said state Superintendent of Schools Jorea Marple. "This design addresses behavior and school safety comprehensively by addressing irrelevant behaviors proactively to promote safe and supportive learning conditions.
Source: Charleston Gazette