Our nation’s schools face longstanding challenges in preventing and effectively responding to instances of bullying and harassment. AAUW’s research has shown alarming rates of harassment, bullying and assault in schools and on campuses. Research also shows that LGTBQ+ young people experience higher rates of bullying than their non-LGBTQ+ peers. Bullying and harassment interfere with a student’s ability to achieve high standards and have a significant impact on GPAs, school attendance, dropout rates, and likelihood of completing college. 

Simply put, students can’t learn if they do not feel safe. Ask your representative to support the Safe Schools Improvement Act! 

The Safe Schools Improvement Act would establish federal standards to protect every student from bullying and harassment in K-12 schools, regardless of actual or perceived race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or religion. It would also require states to report data on incidents of bullying and harassment to the U.S. Department of Education. 

The Safe Schools Improvement Act was originally introduced more than a decade ago with bipartisan support. Our students urgently need these protections now. With a bill introduction expected in Congress soon, please ask your U.S. Representative to co-sponsor the Safe Schools Improvement Act.