Guest editorial | Peninsula School District Board of Directors reaffirms commitment to addressing harassment, intimidation and bullying (HIB)

We would like to provide further details about the delay in the release of the independent audit on harassment, intimidation, and bullying (HIB) within Peninsula School District (PSD). The initial draft report did not provide the detailed level of policy and procedure analysis, and actionable recommendations around best practices for reporting, tracking, training and prevention of HIB that was originally requested from the board in our September 24, 2024 board meeting.

The Board initiated this audit with clear objectives in mind, and district staff then hired the local Educational Service District (ESD) to complete the following objectives:

1. Audit Existing Policies & Procedures – Ensure alignment with Washington State legal standards (RCWs) and model policies, and assess consistency in implementation across the district.

2. Evaluate District Communications – Review handbooks, family rights and responsibilities, and other district communications for clarity and consistency.

3. Identify Gaps & Provide Recommendations – Highlight inconsistencies and offer solutions that align with our strategic plan.

4. Analyze Prevention Measures – Assess current district programs, clubs, and educational efforts aimed at preventing HIB.

Because the draft report received in February did not fully address these objectives, the Board requested to delay the report’s release. The draft report primarily identified strengths and opportunities for the district related to HIB, inclusion and belonging using reiterated data the district has already reviewed in school improvement plans (SIPS) and previous study sessions. While this information is valuable, it does not fulfill the full scope of work the Board outlined when commissioning the audit.

“The intent of the independent audit was to rigorously examine our current practices, and then reach outside of PSD, to learn from other districts who have stronger systems in place to respond to HIB and to best support students and staff,” said Board President Natalie Wimberley.

The Board has requested district staff ensure revisions directly address the above specified objectives. The board shares our community’s sense of urgency around this issue, and appreciates the patience as we work toward strengthening our district’s efforts in preventing and addressing harassment, intimidation, and bullying.

For further inquiries, please contact Jacob Voss, Director of Strategic Communications, at [email protected] or 253-530-1066.

Peninsula School District Board of Directors