The Legal Obligations of Schools to Prevent Bullying:

What Parents Need to Know

Schools are legally required to protect students from bullying, harassment, and discrimination. When they fail to do so, they can and should be held accountable. And many times, schools or school districts have faced costly settlements for failing to do enough to protect students from the devastating consequences.


LegalAlly.com founder and attorney Adam Mandell has taken his commitment to fighting bullying beyond the courtroom by completing the Dignity for All Students Act (DASA) training—one of the most comprehensive anti-bullying programs in the country. Through his work with schools, Adam has gained valuable insight into how administrators often mishandle bullying cases and, in some instances, contribute to the problem. If your child's school isn’t taking action, you have legal rights as a parent—and we’re here to help.

Schools’ Responsibilities in Bullying Cases

Under laws like New York’s Dignity for All Students Act (DASA), schools are required to take several proactive steps to prevent and address bullying. Schools are not only responsible for disciplining bullies—they must also create a culture where bullying is actively discouraged and victims are supported.

Here’s what schools must do under DASA and similar laws:

  • Schools are required to provide training for teachers, administrators, and staff on recognizing and properly handling bullying, harassment, and discrimination. Without proper training, many staff members fail to recognize the signs your child is being bullied.

  • Each school must have a dedicated individual, typically a principal or district-wide coordinator, to ensure compliance with anti-bullying policies and investigate reports.

  • Schools must have written policies, usually included in student handbooks, that explicitly prohibit bullying and outline consequences for violators.

  • If bullying is substantiated, schools are legally obligated to report it. Failing to do so may indicate negligence on their part.

  • Schools should actively foster a tolerant environment by educating students on respect, diversity, and inclusion to prevent bullying before it starts.

    When a school fails in any of these areas, they are not meeting their legal obligations, and parents have every right to take action.