MO SB946

Repeals and replaces section 160.775, RSMo, to establish comprehensive anti-bullying policy requirements for Missouri school districts by September 1, 2007.

Defines bullying as discrimination, intimidation, or harassment causing reasonable fear for physical safety, substantially interfering with educational performance, or disrupting school operations; prohibits bullying by employees or students on school property, at school functions, or on school buses.

Requires anti-bullying policies to specifically prohibit bullying motivated by actual or perceived race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, intellectual ability, physical appearance, mental/physical/sensory disability, or association with protected categories.

Mandates minimum policy components including reporting procedures, investigation processes, consequences statements, prohibition on retaliation, annual staff training, student education programs, annual confidential surveys on harassment and discrimination, and annual policy compliance review.

Authorizes the State Board of Education to promulgate rules and develop model policies to assist local school districts by September 1, 2011, subject to legislative review under chapter 536.