Dignity Act Frequently Asked Questions

Who is protected under the NYS Dignity Act?
All public elementary and secondary school students are protected under the law. Currently, private, religious or denominational schools are not subject to compliance under the Dignity Act.

What is the goal of the Dignity Act?
The goal of the Dignity Act is to create a safe and supportive climate where students have the ability to focus on their education and social development without the fear of being discriminated against or physically, verbally and emotionally harassed.

Does the Dignity Act specifically mention bullying within the law?
Yes. The Dignity Act specifically mentions bullying and hazing within the law. The Dignity Act specifically defines bullying as "the intent to cause another individual pain and/or misery."

Are there specific locations where the Dignity Act is enforced?
Yes. The Dignity Act is fully enforced under the law on all school property which includes fields, playgrounds, school buildings, school buses or authorized school vehicles as well as all school affiliated or sponsored events or activities (proms, dances, competitions).

What is a Dignity Act Coordinator?
The Dignity Act mandates that one individual within each school building within each district must be trained in "nondiscriminatory instructional and counseling methods and handling human relations." This individual is responsible for reporting all of the their respective schools Dignity Act violations to the state Education Department at the end of each school term within a written report called "Reports of Incidents Concerning School Safety and the Educational Climate."

How do I find out who my schools Dignity Act Coordinator is?
Under the Dignity Act, all districts are mandated to have an individual coordinator in each school building. Please View a listing of all DASA Coordinators for each school within each Nassau County school district.

Is there an investigation when a Dignity Act violation is reported?
Yes. The initial complaint is investigated with an oral report submitted to the building principal and the superintendent within one day of the incident being reported. A written report is then required to be submitted two days of the incident being reported. The investigation findings are then reported to both parties in question. The Dignity Act does not specifically require that parents are notified of the investigations findings.