The Kern High School District updated their bullying policy to include the protection a student's actual or perceived 'immigration status.'

In Monday's agenda, the board recommended an update to policy BP 5131.2 Bullying, with the following rationale:

"Policy updated to reflect NEW LAW (AB 699) which requires districts to educate students about the negative impact of bullying based on actual or perceived immigration status or religious beliefs and customs. Policy also reflects the California Attorney General's model policy developed pursuant to AB 699, which requires staff training with specified components related to bullying prevention and response."

Changes in policy include educating students about the negative impact of bullying someone for their perceived or actual immigration status. The new policy requires the district to provide training to teachers and other school staff to raise their awareness of the legal obligation employees have to prevent such bullying.

KHSD trustee Jeff Flores says the update to the policy will include communication with parents about the changes.

The policy is being updated to align with AB 699, which requires that all local educational agencies in California implement additional protections to ensure that all students, regardless of immigration status or country of birth, have the opportunity to pursue their education without undue fear or risk.