§ 49-6-4502 — Part definitions

As used in this part: (1) "Cyber-bullying" means bullying undertaken through the use of electronic devices; (2) "Electronic devices" include, but are not limited to, telephones, cellular phones or other wireless telecommunication devices, personal digital assistants (PDAs), computers, electronic mail, instant messaging, text messaging, and websites; (3) "Harassment, intimidation or bullying" means any act that substantially interferes with a student's educational benefits, opportunities or performance; and: (A) If the act takes place on school grounds, at any school-sponsored activity, on school-provided equipment or transportation or at any official school bus stop, the act has the effect of: (i) Physically harming a student or damaging a student's property; (ii) Knowingly placing a student or students in reasonable fear of physical harm to the student or damage to the student's property; (iii) Causing emotional distress to a student or students; or (iv) Creating a hostile educational environment; or (B) If the act takes place off school property or outside of a school-sponsored activity, it is directed specifically at a student or students and has the effect of creating a hostile educational environment or otherwise creating a substantial disruption to the education environment or learning process.

Legislative History

Acts 2005, ch. 202, § 1; 2011, ch. 251, §§ 1, 3; T.C.A. §49-6-4502; T.C.A. § 45-6-1015.