Gavin's Law

Horry County Schools is committed to maintaining a learning environment free from intimidating or harassing behavior of any kind, including sexual extortion. In keeping with this commitment, the district prohibits any student, staff, or third parties from engaging in any behavior that would satisfy the definition of sexual extortion or aggravated sexual extortion as described in state law. Further, the district will not tolerate retaliation against a person who has made a report or filed a complaint alleging sexual extortion or who has participated as a witness in an investigation.

Reporting

Any student who feels he/she has been subjected to sexual extortion is encouraged to file a complaint in accordance with procedures established by the superintendent. Complaints will be investigated promptly, thoroughly, and confidentially. All staff members are required to report alleged violations of this policy to the principal or his/her designee. Reports by students or staff may be made anonymously but formal disciplinary action by the district will not be taken solely on the basis of an anonymous report.

The district prohibits retaliation or reprisal in any form against a student or staff member who has filed a complaint or report of sexual extortion. The district also prohibits any person from falsely accusing another as a means of intimidation, bullying, or harassment.

District Level Discipline

Students, staff, parents/legal guardians, contract and other workers, volunteers, visitors, and other members of the public are required to comply with this policy. The district will enforce this policy through appropriate disciplinary actions for violators. Students whose behavior is found to be in violation of this policy will be subject to discipline and graduated consequences, up to and including expulsion, and will be referred to law enforcement officials, as appropriate, consistent with the Student Behavior Code and District policy. Staff members found in violation of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination and will be referred to law enforcement officials, as appropriate, consistent with district policy. Visitors or volunteers found in violation of this policy will be subject to appropriate sanctions and will be referred to law enforcement officials, as appropriate.

Click here to access the HCS Student Policy regarding Gavin's Law.