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WNIJ's summary of news items around our state.

Illinois School Districts Might Want To Consider Re-Vamping Anti-Bullying Policies, Report Says

Flickr user Thomas Ricker / "Bully" (CC BY 2.0)

A report by the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network says many Illinois school districts might want to consider expanding their anti-bullying policies.

The survey of anti-bullying policies at school districts across the nation checked for specific protections for kids whose sexual orientation or gender expression could make them targets for teasing or harassment.

The nationwide survey found less than half of Illinois districts provide protection for gays and lesbians, and only 7 percent mention transgender students. 

"You want to make sure that your policies and procedures specifically mention language and training regarding gender expression and identity, sexual orientation, or perceived sexual orientation or identity,” Cindy Martsch, a school social worker in Springfield, said.

Martsch also has a transgender son who graduated from the district a few years ago.

Last month, District 186 adopted a comprehensive anti-bullying policy, protecting LGBT students and their friends based on a template provided by the Illinois Association of School Boards.