In a bold move to promote safe educational spaces, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek teamed up with BOLI Commissioner Christina Stephenson to introduce new measures aimed at curbing bullying, discrimination, and harassment against students, specifically on race, national origin, and immigration status. According to the Governor's Office, this initiative is a testament to Oregon's commitment to creating welcoming classroom environments.
Rallying behind the idea that no child should suffer the affronts of harassment while pursuing education, Kotek affirmed, per the Governor's Office, "Every student in Oregon deserves to learn in an environment free from bullying, harassment, and discrimination—regardless of their race, national origin, or immigration status." These sentiments echo Oregon's nondiscrimination laws, such as ORS 659.850, which aim to protect students within the school system.
Dr. Charlene Williams, representing the Oregon Department of Education, expressed strong confidence in the school administrators and educators. "I am confident that Oregon's dedicated school administrators and educators will continue their tireless work to create learning environments where every child feels welcome, safe and valued," Williams conveyed, as cited by the Governor's Office. Her remarks reassure stakeholders of the persistence of state and federal student protections.
