Policy Regarding Hazing
The Athletic Department at North Yarmouth Academy supports only those activities which are constructive, educational, inspirational, and that contribute to the intellectual and personal development of students. North Yarmouth Academy unequivocally opposes any situation created intentionally to produce mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule.
Hazing is an intentional action taken, situation created, or any conduct or method of initiation into any school organization, club or team under direct school sponsorship that denies a person his or her individual rights or results in mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, ridicule or endangerment. Hazing should be understood to include any forced treatment or physical activity which is likely to adversely affect the physical health or safety of any student, or which subjects a student to extreme stress. Additionally, hazing can include exaggerated or excessive teasing. Any requirement by a student which compels another student to participate in any activity which is against North Yarmouth Academy policy or state/federal law will be defined as hazing. The fact that a hazing victim may seem willing or may even agree to participate in some form of personal embarrassment or physical/mental danger does not change or lighten the responsibility of the one who is doing the hazing. In addition, any person who knowingly witnesses or fails to report knowledge of any incidents of hazing may be considered to be a participant in the hazing.
Actions and activities which are prohibited include, but are not limited to, the following:
Any type of initiation or other activity where there is an expectation of individuals joining a particular team to participate in behavior designed to humiliate, degrade, or abuse them regardless of the person’s willingness to participate.
Any requirement or pressure put on an individual to participate in any activity which is illegal, perverse, publicly indecent, contrary to his/her genuine morals and/or beliefs, e.g. public profanity or indecent or lewd conduct.
Any activity or action that creates a risk to the health, safety, or property of North Yarmouth Academy or any member of its community.
Assigning or endorsing “pranks” such as stealing or harassment of another organization.
Expecting or pressuring individuals to participate in an activity in which the full membership is not willing to participate.
Physical abuse of any kind.
Forcing, encouraging, or pressuring someone to wear in public apparel which is conspicuous and not within the norm of what is considered to be in good taste.
Morally degrading/humiliating games or other activity that makes the member the object of amusement, ridicule or intimidation.
Subjecting a member to cruel and unusual psychological conditions.