Brookfield Engineering Science Technology Academy is committed to providing an educational and work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment, including discrimination and harassment based on any protected category, and an environment free from retaliation for participation in any protected activity covered by this policy. BEST Academy will ensure equal rights and opportunities in accessing education programs, activities, and facilities and prohibits discrimination or harassment based on the following categories: race, color, religion, religious creed (including religious dress and grooming practices), national origin, ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition (including cancer and genetic characteristics), genetic information, marital status, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), gender, gender identity, gender expression, age (40 years and over), sexual orientation, veteran and/or military status, protected medical leaves (requesting or approved for leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act of the California Family Rights Act), domestic violence victim status, political affiliation, and any other status protected by state or federal law. In addition, BEST Academy prohibits retaliation against a person who engages in activities protected under this policy. Reporting, or assisting in reporting, suspected violations of this policy and cooperating in investigations or proceedings arising out of a violation of this policy are protected activities under this policy.