Des Moines – The Eychaner Foundation is today launching reportbullyingiowa.com for reporting bullying and harassment in Iowa. Students, parents, teachers and staff may now report bullying easily using the online form.
Executive Director Michael Bowser says, “Iowa law requires both public and private schools to establish policies prohibiting harassment and bullying against students by other students, employees or school volunteers and to quickly investigate any reported incidents. Regrettably it is often difficult for students and parents to find reporting procedures, forms and contact individuals. This online form makes it easy for victims to collect and submit information about the incident to the school, so the school can begin their investigation.”
GSA Day is a time to strengthen the bond between LGBT people and straight allies and in particular recognize and honor student organizations called Gay-Straight Alliances (also known as a GSA). These student led groups work to educate their peers to stop homophobia, transphobia and violence in schools and colleges throughout the country. The day is coordinated and sponsored nationally by Iowa Pride Network (IPN). National GSA Day will be held on January 25, 2012.
Today, Iowa Public Radio continues its week-long series “Being Gay in Iowa.” It’s often a tumultuous experience when young people acknowledge they’re gay. It opens them up for teasing and downright bullying from classmates. In part-four of their series, reporter Rob Dillard looks into what’s being done in Iowa to protect gay students from the taunts of their peers.