In response to the independent report published in Fall 2021, Cate School and its Board of Trustees have implemented a series of measures to prevent and address sexual misconduct. These actions underscore our unwavering dedication to accountability and the safety and welfare of our students. Click below to read more about these efforts.
If a student experiences discomfort due to sexual remarks or behaviors from another student, faculty, or staff member, they should immediately seek assistance from a trusted faculty member, the Sexual Harassment Information and Resource Team (SHIRT) Liaisons, or contact a member of SHIRT. SHIRT investigates complaints, follows mandated reporting requirements, and determines appropriate actions, which may include mediation, counseling, education, or disciplinary measures. Even without a formal complaint, SHIRT may convene if school standards are not met. All incidents of abuse, including sexual, physical, emotional, neglect, and family violence, must be reported to Child Protective Services. Students have the right to seek legal counsel and report incidents to the police, Child Welfare Services, or the Head of School.
Cate provides comprehensive training and resources for students, including:
To maintain a positive and safe environment, all adults in the community receive:
Students and faculty collaborate to address challenges and improve communication within the community. Initiatives include preparing students for difficult topics, enhancing communication channels, clarifying reporting protocols, and promoting kindness and compassion.
The Committee on Community Care and Accountability (CCA) is a standing and permanent committee of the Board, committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of students. Its responsibilities include:
SHIRT and CCA Collaboration
SHIRT and CCA collaborate to address incidents of sexual misconduct, prioritizing student privacy while sharing necessary information with trustees.
Board of Trustee Trainings
The Board has received education on sexual misconduct policies and survivor-centered care, including:
Related Letters to the Community
If you have any questions or would like to see any recent communications, please contact CCA@cate.org.
For immediate crisis intervention, general information, and resources:
Additional Resources
In order to continue the important work of creating a safe environment on the Mesa, Cate has established partnerships with local and national level organizations to provide resources, training, and support to students, faculty, and alumni. Learn about these partnerships below.
Cate is strengthening its partnership with Standing Together to End Sexual Assault (STESA). Formerly the Santa Barbara Rape Crisis Center, STESA, a local affiliate of RAINN, provides confidential counseling and support services to survivors of sexual assault and their loved ones.
Cate Therapy Fund: In an effort to support our survivors, Cate School has established a therapy fund to assist alumni and former students desiring reimbursement for therapy related to sexual abuse during their time at Cate. We have engaged RAINN, the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization, to operate the dedicated Cate School Therapy Fund Hotline, and provide confidential support and information on how to access the fund.
The funds will be distributed through an independent, third-party claims administrator, and neither RAINN nor the claims administrator will provide the School or the Board with any personally identifying information about those who call the hotline, or who access the fund. Additionally, alumni and former students who were harmed by adults while at Cate can access these services but are not required to participate in the School’s investigation.
The fund has been formally established and the Cate School Therapy Fund Hotline, operated by RAINN, launched on Monday, October 4. Additional information for the Cate School Therapy Fund can be found here.
We recognize that, for survivors, even our outreach can cause emotional difficulty. For immediate crisis intervention, and general information and resources, available 24/7, contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800.656.HOPE (4673) or online.rainn.org.