Bullying Prevention Policy

For the protection of the students and staff, River Rock Academy has created and
maintained a learning atmosphere which is respectful and supportive. Providing a safe school
environment where all students and staff are treated with respect and dignity and are free from
bullying, intimidation and harassment is one of our highest priorities. This freedom is fundamental
to our program and is extended to everyone without exception. This policy is not intended to
prohibit expression of religious, philosophical or political views, provided that the expression does
not substantially disrupt the education environment. Many behaviors that do not rise to the level of
bullying, intimidation or harassment may still be prohibited by other policies or by building,
classroom or program rules or norms.

Complaint Process

Anyone may initiate a complaint of bullying. Complainant(s) should not be promised
confidentiality at the onset of an investigation. It cannot be predicted what will be discovered or
what kind of hearing may result. Efforts should be made to increase the confidence and trust of the
person making the complaint. River Rock Academy will fully implement the anti-retaliation
provisions of this policy to protect complainant(s) and witness(es). Student complainants and
witnesses may have a parent/guardian or trusted adult with them, if requested, during any program
initiated investigatory activities. The Program Director may conduct an investigation based on
information in his possession regardless of the complainant’s interest in filing a formal complaint.

The following process shall be followed:

• All complaints shall be in writing and shall set forth the specific acts, conditions or
circumstances alleged to have occurred that may constitute harassment, intimidation or
bullying. The Program Director may draft the complaint based on the report of the
complainant for the complainant to review and sign.

• Regardless of the complainant’s interest in filing a formal complaint, the Program Director
may conclude that a draft of a formal complaint is needed based on the information in his
possession.

• The Program Director shall investigate all formal complaints of bullying, intimidation and
harassment, and other information in his possession that he believes requires further
investigation.

• When the investigation is completed, the Program Director shall compile a full written
report of the complaint and the result of the investigation.

• The Program Director or designee shall respond in writing to the complainant and the
accused within thirty days stating:

o That the program intends to take corrective action; or

o That the investigation is incomplete to date and will be continuing; or

o That the program does not have adequate evidence to conclude that bullying,
harassment or intimidation occurred.

• Corrective measures deemed necessary will be instituted as quickly as possible, but in no
event more than thirty days after the Program Director’s written response.

• If the matter has not been resolved to the complainant’s satisfaction, they may pursue the
complaint with the Chief Operating Officer, Chief Business Officer or Chief Executive
Officer.