Columbia Board Delays Bullying Policy Vote

The Columbia Board of Education postponed a vote on its revised bullying policy until Oct. 21, saying members wanted clearer language after discussing the proposal for more than an hour. The revision would require school staff and other adults working with students—including substitutes, contractors and volunteers—to intervene in and report bullying, provide support to victims, and notify the families of both the alleged victim and alleged perpetrator within five school days after an investigation is completed. A parent of a student with special needs welcomed stronger protections but raised concerns about how schools will address less visible forms of bullying, such as shaming and social exclusion; if approved, the policy is set to take effect in January 2027.