Our Commitment

Peru CSD is committed to maintaining a safe educational and work environment that is free from sexual harassment and discrimination. In compliance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, New York State Education Law, and New York State Human Rights Law, we prohibit sexual harassment of students and staff by employees, students, or third parties.

What is Sexual Harassment?

Sexual harassment includes unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature that may affect a person’s ability to participate in or benefit from an education program or activity. This can include:

Unwelcome sexual advances
Requests for sexual favors
Verbal, nonverbal, or physical conduct of a sexual nature
Sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, or stalking

Conduct is considered harassment when:

Submission is made a condition of a person’s status or performance
It creates a hostile environment by interfering with someone’s ability to work or learn
It is severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive

Reporting Sexual Harassment

Any student, parent, employee, or community member may report an incident of sexual harassment.

Reports may be made in person, by mail, email, or phone to the Title IX Coordinator:

Title IX District Coordinator

Shannon Pitcher-Boyea
District Office
17 School St., Peru, NY 12972
(518) 643-6011

Title IX Coordinator – Elementary Level
Sara Simon-Shult, Principal
Peru Primary School
116 Pleasant St., Peru, NY 12972
(518) 643-6100

Title IX Coordinator – Secondary Level
Matt Berry, Principal
Peru High School
17 School St., Peru, NY 12972
(518) 643-6400

Harassment Complaint Form

1. Filing the Complaint
A written or verbal report is filed with the Title IX Coordinator. Anonymous reports are permitted but may limit the ability to investigate.

2. Review and Response
The Coordinator conducts a preliminary review to determine if the complaint meets the criteria for a Title IX investigation.

3. Formal Investigation (if applicable)

Both the complainant and respondent are notified
Evidence is gathered (statements, messages, video, etc.)
Individual interviews are conducted
Both parties have equal opportunity to present evidence and witnesses

4. Determination
After evaluating the evidence using a preponderance of the evidence standard, the investigator issues a final report.

5. Notification of Outcome
Both parties are notified simultaneously, in writing, of the decision and any disciplinary measures, if applicable.

6. Appeals
Each party has the right to appeal the outcome under district policy.

Interim Measures and Support

During an investigation, the district may take interim measures to protect involved individuals. These may include:

Schedule changes
No-contact orders
Counseling support
Safety planning

Support services are available throughout and after the process regardless of the outcome.

Retaliation Prohibition

Retaliation against anyone who reports sexual harassment or participates in an investigation is strictly prohibited. Any act of retaliation should be reported immediately.

Policies and Resources

Board of Education Policy on Sexual Harassment #0110