Mass. school district reveals draft anti-bullying policy in response to student’s suicide

Mass. district reveals draft anti-bullying policy

SOUTH HADLEY, Mass. — The Massachusetts school district where authorities say a girl was driven to suicide by bullying has a draft of a new anti-bullying policy.

The draft made public Monday was drawn up by a 31-person task force appointed in February after 15-year-old Phoebe Prince hanged herself. Prosecutors say her death followed “relentless” bullying by fellow South Hadley students. Six students are facing charges in connection with her death.

The Springfield Republican reports that the draft specifically defines bullying, spells possible disciplinary actions and discusses strategies for protecting students and parental notification.

The task force is scheduled to meet several more times before finalizing the policy.

Information from: The Springfield Republican, www.masslive.com/news/