Cyberbullying
Cyberbullying is now considered as serious an offense as burglary, gang activity and more traditional forms of bullying, the Chicago Board of Education said. A student using the Internet, a cellphone or another device to send or post text or images intended to hurt or embarrass another student faces mandatory suspension, possible expulsion and a police investigation, the board said in approving a new student code of conduct. The tough stance -- regulating student behavior away from school and outside school hours as well as at school during the school day -- is required to tackle a growing trend of cyberbullying, school officials said. Studies suggest as many as 4 in 10 kids are targeted by bullies online, the Chicago Sun-Times said. Students who use computers or phones to "stalk, harass, bully or otherwise intimidate others" will be suspended for five to 10 days and could be referred for expulsion, the board said. Cyberbullying incidents will also automa...