With the recent allegations of sexual misconduct at Penn State, the counseling staff at Langley has made it a priority to help students understand what sexual harassment is, and when it should be reported.

Over a span of two weeks, the sophomore and junior classes were required to attend a mandatory Saxon Time seminar with their counselors.

“Sexual harassment is a big deal in our society and a big deal in schools,” said counselor Ms. Katharine Parrott in her seminar.

At the presentation, students learned the three primary types of sexual harassment: verbal, visual and physical. Verbal harassment includes anything from name calling to threats to rumors. This type of harassment is not limited to audible words; anything that is written online, including Facebook, Twitter and texting can be reported as sexual harassment if someone is uncomfortable.

“There is a fine line between flirting and sexual harassment. You have to pay attention to what someone is saying to you,” said Parrott.

The next type of harassment, visual harassment, involves the “sexting” of inappropriate pictures or even dressing too suggestively. And the third type, physical harassment, consists of inappropriate touching, grabbing or any unwanted physical contact.

“It is all acceptable to some extent unless someone looks uncomfortable,” said junior class president Shy Daraeikia.

If you see anyone being sexually harassed or someone who is harassing another person, talk to a trustworthy adult, parent, teacher, administrator or counselor immediately.

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Photos by Na He Jeon