Wellsville Central School District

Dignity for All Students Act (D.A.S.A.)

The New York State Dignity For All Students Act (Dignity Act) was signed into law on September 13, 2010, and took effect on July 1st, 2012.

The Dignity Act states that NO student shall be subjected to harassment or discrimination by employees or students on school property or at a school function based on their actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender, or sex.

The Dignity Act also specifies that all schools have a positive culture initiative that teaches the concepts of tolerance, respect for others, and dignity.

Wellsville administration and D.A.S.A. Coordinators also introduced a district-wide set of expectations to all principals, faculty, staff and students. This is a strategy that research has shown to be most effective in supporting a positive school culture. These expectations will be posted around the district and as part of the Parent and Student Resources on our website.

The goal of the Dignity Act is to create a safe and supportive school climate where students can learn and focus, rather than fear being discriminated against and/or verbally and/or physically harassed. All public elementary and secondary school students have the right to attend school in a safe, welcoming, considerate, and caring environment.