This doesn't mean bullying isn't a problem in schools, however. This month's newsletter for Timberline Middle School in Alpine said that a recent student survey showed that one out of four students feel bullying is a problem at the school.

"We were a little surprised that (the survey) showed as much as it was," said assistant principal Devon Tufts. "As a school, we haven't sensed that there's a bullying problem per se, but that's something we're going to be looking at more in terms of why the students feel this way and to see if there needs to be something we need to be aware of."

Tufts said that there haven't been any incidents that have shown there is a problem, and in light of the new district policy, he's sure there will be more emphasis against bullying.

Both districts' policies also warn against the use of technology in cyberbullying: using e-mail, Web pages, blogging, text messaging or any other kind of electronic means of aggression, intimidation, or harassment against another person.

Earlier this month, Mary Kaye Huntsman announced that efforts to prevent cyberbullying would be incorporated into her Power in You Foundation, a youth program addressing such issues as gangs, eating disorders, bullying and abuse.

In the Alpine District, punishment for bullying will depend on the severity of the incident, Mortensen said, varying from a one-day suspension to expulsion.

She said that discussion of the new policy will be emphasized in schools for the remainder of the school year, as well as when school starts again in the fall. The new policy will also be mailed out during the summer.

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E-mail: asnyder@desnews.com