Academic Institutions & Schools
School culture can shape a student’s future path, in both positive and negative ways. It is imperative that students are shielded from harassment, discrimination, retaliation, intimidation and bullying. Both explicit and implicit bias can impact decisions on discipline, selection for advanced placement classes, guidance in the application process for college and other advanced education, and the daily treatment of students. New Jersey schools are obligated to include in their curricula accurate and often troubling historical events and literature, which must be taught in a manner that promotes understanding and respect.
Laws that impact school culture can include Titles VII and IX of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII and Title IX), the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJ LAD), the New Jersey Harassment, Intimidation, and Bulling (HIB) Law, and the Create a Respectful and Open Workplace for Natural Hair Act (CROWN Act), as well as numerous other anti-discrimination and educational laws and regulations.
A number of KSB Law attorneys hold academic teaching positions at the higher education and law school level in New Jersey.
TRAINING TAILORED TO SCHOOLS
KSB Law assists schools and academic institutions to foster harmonious learning environments that are safe, bias-free, respectful, and culturally competent, and to build diverse and inclusive cultures with a strong sense of belonging. KSB Law can also help schools and academic institutions navigate changes in the law, including changes to Title IX.
KSB Law conducts numerous Training Programs, including training on the prevention of harassment, discrimination and retaliation, and on implicit bias awareness and cultural competence. These Training Programs are tailored to the school environment and focus on how school employees interact with students and with each other.
CULTURAL ASSESSMENTS
KSB Law recommends Cultural Assessments as a tool to assist schools in evaluating the school culture and determining areas in which the schools can improve their learning and work environments.
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION REQUESTS
Schools may be faced with employees or students who seek to bring service or assistance animals to school. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, NJ LAD, and privacy laws may apply to these types of requests, which can pose unique challenges in the school environment. KSB Law can assist in the interactive process, either on the part of the school evaluating the reasonable accommodation requests or on behalf of the employee or student who is seeking a reasonable accommodation.
INDEPENDENT INVESTIGATIONS
If a conflict does arise – whether stemming from allegations by students, students’ families, or school employees – KSB Law attorneys can perform Independent Investigations. These Investigations can provide crucial information needed by the school leaders and the school’s legal counsel to determine the best remedial approach to address the concerns raised.
ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION/GRIEVANCES
KSB Law can assist in roles as mediators, arbitrators, Title IX advisors, or hearing officers. The Firm’s attorneys engage a collaborative approach fostered over years of experience handling complex employment matters for both employees and employers. This unique dual perspective enhances their balanced perspective when serving in a variety of roles.
