New York State Dignity for All Students Act (DASA)
The goal of the Dignity for All Students Act (DASA) is to provide students with a safe, supportive educational environment that is free from discrimination, intimidation, taunting, harassment and bullying. DASA states that no student shall be subjected to harassment or discrimination by employees or students on school property or at a school function based on their actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender, or sex.

Frequently Asked Questions about DASA
Who is protected by the Dignity for All Students Act?
All public elementary and secondary school students are protected by the Dignity Act.

How does the Dignity Act relate to bullying?
Bullying can be a form of harassment and discrimination.

What physical spaces are covered by the Dignity Act?
The Dignity Act applies to behavior on school property (including athletic fields, playgrounds, and parking lots), in school buildings, on a school bus/vehicle, as well as at school-sponsored events or activities.

How does the Dignity Act affect the School’s Code of Conduct?
Under the Dignity Act, the school district’s code of conduct must include age appropriate, plain language that prohibits discrimination and harassment against any student by employees or other students that creates a hostile environment.

Where can I find the district’s Code of Conduct?
A full text of the Highland Central School District Code of Conduct is posted on the district website. You can click here to download a copy.

How is a hostile environment defined?
A hostile environment may occur with or without physical contact and/or by verbal threats, intimidation or abuse. If the conduct unreasonably and substantially interferes with a student’s educational performance, opportunities or benefits, mental, emotional and/or physical well-being or if a student fears for his or her physical safety, a hostile environment exists.

What is required of the school?
All students must be informed annually of the behavioral expectations in the code of conduct. Training for staff will be provided to raise their awareness and sensitivity to potential discrimination or harassment and how to prevent and respond to discrimination or harassment. Staff who know—or reasonably should know—of possible harassment must take immediate and appropriate action to investigate or otherwise determine what occurred. When harassment has occurred, staff must take prompt and effective steps to end it, eliminate any hostile environment and prevent it from reoccurring.