Addressing sexual misconduct and violence at school sites is critical to ensuring a safe and respectful learning environment and is also an important matter of individual and social justice.
We know instances of sexual misconduct and violence are underreported generally and this is very likely the case at school. AB353 will require schools to conduct a survey on school climate to help identify the level of alleged misconduct and the extent to which this is being effectively reported. AB353 also establishes important protocols to ensure a more uniform response to assist victims of sexual violence, including designation and training for a victim’s advocate.
The “Me Too” movement has provided a public dialogue about sexual harassment and growing accountability for perpetrators. AB353 is an important step to address sexual misconduct and violence in our schools.
