Bias Incident Reporting System

Bias Incident Reporting System (BIRS) at HVRHS

What is a Bias Incident?

A “bias incident” refers to language, imagery, and/or actions which demonstrate bias against persons or groups because of factors (actual or perceived) such as: race, nationality, ethnicity, religion, age, socioeconomic status, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, body size, and/or disability.

What is the Bias Incident Reporting System and How Should I Use It?

The Bias Incident Reporting System (BIRS) is a way for students, faculty, and staff to report incidents of bias (e.g., acts of racism, sexism, microaggressions, etc.; see also definition of “bias incident”) that occur at HVRHS, or between and among members of the HVRHS community. It is not to be used if a student is in physical danger or is in a mental health crisis; this system is to be used for non-emergencies only.

What we are NOT: 

• We are not a crisis response team. Students in immediate danger of harm or in crisis should contact Principal Strever, Assistant Principal Schibi, a trusted adult, or call 911 immediately.
• We are not the thought or speech police. We do not tell people how to think or talk. We listen, provide resources and support and help all students, faculty and staff feel safe.
• We are not a disciplinary body. Our purpose is to educate, rather than to punish. However, if a case needs to be followed up with student discipline or faculty/staff remediation, we refer the case to the appropriate administrators for follow up.

Together with other school-wide groups and initiatives, the BIRS is an important part of promoting a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment at HVRHS where all students, faculty, and staff can thrive.

What is the Bias Education and Response Team (BERT)?

The Bias Education and Response Team (BERT) is a group of trained students, faculty, and staff whose primary tasks are to educate the HVRHS community on issues of bias and provide a response to incidents of bias reported through the Bias Incident Reporting System (BIRS). With regard to this latter role, the BERT monitors and ensures a review of, and a response to, incidents that negatively impact students’ and faculty/staff’s teaching and learning environment (especially for those most marginalized) and the overall school culture.

The Bias Education and Response Team (BERT) is responsible for:

• Educating students, faculty, and staff around issues of bias
• Working together to respond to incidents of bias
• Ensuring multiple perspectives are held when discussing incidents
• Recommending appropriate actions that are both preventative and responsive
• Monitoring school climate and recommending changes, training, or school-wide curriculum around a particular issue

In addition, the Bias Education and Response Team (BERT) also

• Assists students, faculty, and staff who report incidents. Students, faculty, and staff have the option to report anonymously; for those who do not, the BERT supports them by listening to their experiences, discussing the resources available to them, and providing them with options for follow-up and restorative conversations
• Keeps records of incidents, in order to monitor school climate and recommend improvement areas and actions
• Promotes conversations about anti-bias and equity at HVRHS

How Do I Apply to Become Part of the Bias Education and Response Team (BERT)?

Interested in becoming part of the Bias Education and Response Team (BERT)? Click here to apply! Applications are open to all students, with preference given to Juniors and Seniors. All applications are due by Wednesday, October 18th by the end of the day (11:59pm). A review of applications will begin on Thursday, October 19th and application decisions will be communicated via email by Monday, October 23rd by the end of the day (11:59pm). If you have any questions about this application, please contact Dr. Carolyn Corrado (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Consultant for HVRHS and Region One) at carolyn@doingtheworkllc.com.

How Do I Report a Bias Incident?

Any HVRHS student, faculty, or staff member can report incidents of harm (i.e., acts of racism, bias, sexism, microaggressions, etc.) by completing the Bias Incident Reporting Form. Please complete one form for each incident being reported. Note: the Bias Incident Reporting Form is not to be used if a student is in physical danger or in a mental health crisis; instead, please contact Principal Strever, Assistant Principal Schibi, a trusted adult, or call 911 immediately.