CODE OF CONDUCT

Introduction

The Board of Education (“board”) is committed to providing a safe and orderly school environment where students may receive and district personnel may deliver quality educational services without disruption or interference.  Responsible behavior by students, teachers, other district personnel, parents and other visitors is essential to achieving this goal.

Definitions

For purposes of this code, the following definitions apply.

In accordance with the Dignity for All Students Act (DASA), School District policy and practice must ensure that no student is subject to discrimination or harassment, based on a person's actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender/gender identity or sex by school employees or students on school property, on a school bus, or at a school function. 

School Property means in or within any building, structure, athletic playing field, playground, parking lot, or land contained within the real property boundary line of a public elementary or secondary school; or in or on a school bus (Education Law Section 11[1]).

School Bus means every motor vehicle owned and operated for the transportation of pupils, children of pupils, teachers and other persons acting in a supervisory capacity, to or from school or school activities, or, privately owned and operated for compensation for the transportation of pupils, children of pupils, teachers and other persons acting in a supervisory capacity to or from school or school activities (Education Law Section 11[1] and Vehicle and Traffic Law Section 142).

School Function means a school sponsored extracurricular event or activity (Education Law Section 11[2]).

Disability means (a) a physical, mental or medical impairment resulting from anatomical, physiological, genetic or neurological conditions which prevents the exercise of a normal bodily function or is demonstrable by medically accepted clinical or laboratory diagnostic techniques or (b) a record of such an impairment or (c) a condition regarded by others as such an impairment, provided, however, that in all provisions of this article dealing with employment, the term must be limited to disabilities which, upon the provision of reasonable accommodations, do not prevent the complainant from performing in a reasonable manner the activities involved in the job or occupation sought or held (Education Law Section 11[4] and Executive Law Section 292[21]).

Employee means any person receiving compensation from a school district or employee of a contracted service provider or worker placed within the school under a public assistance employment program, pursuant to title nine B of article five of the Social Services Law, and consistent with the provisions of such title for the provision of services to such district, its students or employees, directly or through contract, whereby such services performed by such person involve direct student contact (Education Law Section s11[4] and 1125[3]).

Sexual Orientation means actual or perceived heterosexuality, homosexuality, or bisexuality (Education Law Section 11[5]).

Gender means actual or perceived sex and includes a person's gender identity or expression (Education Law Section 11[6]

Harassment means the creation of a hostile environment by conduct or by verbal threats, intimidation or abuse that has or would have the effect of unreasonably and substantially interfering with a student's educational performance, opportunities or benefits, or mental, emotional or physical wellbeing; or conduct, verbal threats, intimidation or abuse that reasonably causes or would reasonably be expected to cause a student to fear for his or her physical safety; such conduct, verbal threats, intimidation or abuse includes but is not limited to conduct, verbal threats, intimidation or abuse based on a person's actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender or sex (Education Law Section 11[7]).

Disruptive Student means an elementary or secondary student under the age of 21 who is substantially disruptive of the educational process or substantially interferes with the teacher’s authority over the classroom.

Parent means parent, guardian or person in parental relation to a student.

Violent Student means a student who commits an act of violence.

Weapon means a firearm as defined in 18 USC §921 for purposes of the Gun-Free Schools Act. It also means any other gun, pistol, revolver, shotgun, rifle, machine gun, disguised gun, dagger, dirk, razor, stiletto, switchblade, knife, gravity knife, brass knuckles, slingshot, metal knuckle knife, box cutter, cane sword, electronic dart gun, martial arts star, electronic stun gun, pepper spray or other noxious spray, explosive or incendiary bomb, or other device, instrument, material or substance that can cause physical injury or death when used to cause physical injury or death.

Student Rights and Responsibilities

The district is committed to safeguarding the rights given to all students under state and federal law. 

With every right comes a responsibility.

It is the student's right: It is the student's responsibility:

	To attend school in the district in which one's parent or legal guardian resides.	→	To attend school daily, regularly and on time, perform assignments, and strive to do the highest quality work possible and be granted the opportunity to receive a good education.
	To expect that school will be a safe, orderly and purposeful place for all students to gain an education and to be treated fairly.	→	To be aware of all rules and expectations regulating student's behavior and conduct oneself in accordance with these guidelines.
	To be respected as an individual.	→	To respect one another, and to treat others in the manner that one would want to be treated.
	To express one's opinions verbally or in writing.	→	To express opinions and ideas in a respectful manner so as not to offend, slander, or restrict, the rights and privileges of others.
	To dress in such a way as to express one's personality.	→	To dress appropriately in accordance with the dress code, so as not to endanger physical health, safety, limit participation in school activities or be unduly distracting.
	To be afforded equal and appropriate educational opportunities.	→	To be aware of available educational programs in order to use and develop one's capabilities to their maximum.
	To take part in all school activities on an equal basis regardless of race, color creed, religion, religious practice, sex, sexual orientation, gender, national origin, ethnic group, political affiliation, age, marital status, or disability.	→	To work to the best of one's ability in all academic and extracurricular activities, as well as being fair and supportive of others.
	To have access to relevant and objective information concerning drug and alcohol abuse, as well as access to individuals or agencies capable of providing direct assistance to students with serious personal problems.	→	To be aware of the information and services available and to seek assistance in dealing with personal problems, when appropriate.
	To be protected from intimidation, harassment, or discrimination based on actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, or religious practice, sex, gender/gender identity, sexual orientation, or disability, by employees or students on school property or at a school-sponsored event, function or activity.	→	To respect one another and treat others fairly in accordance with the District Code of Conduct and the provisions of the Dignity Act (DASA). To conduct themselves in a manner that fosters an environment that is free from intimidation, harassment, or discrimination. To report and encourage others, to report any incidents of intimidation, harassment or discrimination.

Essential Partners

Expectations for Parents

1. Recognize that the education of their children is a joint responsibility of the parents or guardians and school community.

1. Send their children to school ready to participate and learn as required by New York State Education Law and in accordance with the District's Comprehensive Student Attendance Policy (#7110). Ensure that children attend school regularly and on time. Ensure absences are excused.

1. Insist their children be dressed and groomed in a manner consistent with the student dress code.

1. Help their children understand that in a democratic society appropriate rules are required to maintain a safe, orderly environment.

1. Know school rules and help their children understand them to maintain a safe, orderly environment in accordance with the District's Code of Conduct.

1. Convey to their children a supportive attitude towards education and the district.

1. Build positive relationships with teachers, other parents and their children's friends.

1. Work with our school to maintain open, respectful and positive communication.

1. Help their children deal effectively with peer pressure.

1. Inform school officials of changes in the home situation that may affect student conduct and/or performance. 

1. Provide a place for study and ensure homework assignments are completed.

1. Teach their children respect and dignity for themselves, and other students regardless of actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender/gender identity, or sex, which will strengthen the child's confidence and promote learning in accordance with the Dignity for All Students Act (DASA).

Expectations for Teachers

1. Maintain a climate of mutual respect and dignity for all students regardless of actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender/gender identity, or sex, with an understanding of appropriate appearance, language, and behavior in a school setting, which will strengthen students' self-image and promote confidence to learn.

1. Be prepared to teach.

1. Demonstrate an interest in teaching and concern for student achievement.

1. Know school policies and rules, and enforce them in a fair and consistent manner.

1. Communicate to students and parents:

1. Course objectives and requirements.
2. Marking/grading procedures.
3. Assignment deadlines.
4. Expectations for students.
5. Classroom management plan.

1. Communicate regularly with students, parents and other teachers concerning growth and achievement.

1. Confront issues of discrimination and harassment in any situation that threatens the emotional or physical health or safety of any students, school employee or any person who is lawfully on school property or at a school function.

1. Address personal biases that may prevent equal treatment of all students in the school or classroom setting.

1. Report incidents of discrimination and harassment that are witnessed or otherwise brought to a teacher's attention to the building administrator and/or Dignity for All Students (DASA) Coordinator in a timely manner.

Expectations for School Counselors

1. Assist students in coping with peer pressure and emerging personal, social and emotional problems.

1. Initiate and appropriately document teacher/student/counselor conferences and parent/ teacher/student/counselor conferences, as necessary, as a way to resolve problems.

1. Regularly review with the students their educational progress, career plans and graduation requirements.

1. Provide information to assist students with career planning.

1. Encourage students to benefit from the curriculum and extracurricular programs.

1. Coordinated Intervention Support Services, as needed, with student, parent, building principal and teachers.

1. Maintain and encourage a climate of mutual respect and dignity for all students regardless of actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender/gender identity, or sex, with an understanding of appropriate appearance, language, and behavior in a school setting, which will strengthen students' self-image and promote confidence to learn.

1. Report incidents of discrimination and harassment that are witnessed or otherwise brought to the counselor's attention to the building administrator and/or Dignity for All Students (DASA) Coordinator in a timely manner.

Expectations for Student Support Service Personnel

1. Support educational and academic goals.

1. Know school rules, abide by them and enforce them in a fair and consistent manner.

1. Assist students in coping with peer pressure and emerging personal, social and emotional problems.

1. Set a good example for students and colleagues by demonstrating dependability, integrity and other standards of ethical conduct.

1. Maintain confidentiality about all personal information and educational records concerning students and their families.

1. Initiate teacher/student/counselor conferences and parent/teacher/student/counselor conferences, as necessary or requested, as a way to resolve problems and communicate as necessary in any other manner with parents and other staff regarding student progress and needs.

1. Regularly review with students their educational progress and career plan.

1. Provide information to assist students with career planning.

1. Encourage students to benefit from the curriculum and extracurricular programs.

1. Maintain and encourage a climate of mutual respect and dignity for all students regardless of actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender/gender identity, or sex, with an understanding of appropriate appearance, language, and behavior in a school setting, which will strengthen students' self-image and promote confidence to learn.

1. Report incidents of discrimination and harassment that are witnessed or otherwise brought to the staff member's attention to the building administrator and/or Dignity for All Students (DASA) Coordinator in a timely manner.

Expectations for Other School Staff

1) Follow the Code of Conduct; know, abide by and enforce school rules in a fair and consistent manner.

2) Set a good example for students and other staff by demonstrating dependability, integrity and other standards of ethical conduct.

3) Assist in promoting a safe, orderly and stimulating school environment.

4) Maintain confidentiality about all personal information and educational records concerning students and their families.

5) Maintain and encourage a climate of mutual respect and dignity for all students regardless of actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender/gender identity, or sex, with an understanding of appropriate appearance, language, and behavior in a school setting, which will    strengthen students' self-image and promote confidence to learn.

6) Report incidents of discrimination and harassment that are witnessed or otherwise brought to a staff member's attention to the building administrator and/or Dignity for All Students (DASA) Coordinator in a timely manner.

Expectations for Principals

1) Promote a safe, orderly and stimulating school environment, supporting active teaching and learning.

2) Ensure that students and staff have the opportunity to communicate regularly with the principal and approach the principal for redress of grievances.

3) Evaluate on a regular basis the effective safety, behavioral and school management issues related to all instructional programs.

4) Support the development of and student participation in appropriate extracurricular activities.

5) Be responsible for enforcing the Code of Conduct, ensuring that all cases are resolved promptly and fairly and, when necessary, appropriately documenting actions.

6) Maintain and encourage a climate of mutual respect and dignity for all students regardless of actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender/gender identity, or sex, with an understanding of appropriate appearance, language, and behavior in a school setting, which will strengthen students' self-image and promote confidence to learn.

7) The principal, who is the Dignity for All Students (DASA) Coordinator, will follow up on any incidents of discrimination and harassment that are witnessed or otherwise brought to their attention in a timely manner.

Expectations for the Superintendent

1) Promote a safe, orderly, respectful and stimulating school environment, free from intimidation, discrimination and harassment, supporting active teaching and learning.

2) Review with district administrators the policies of the Board of Education and state and federal laws relating to school operations and management.

3) Inform the Board of Education about educational trends, including student discipline.

4) Work to create instructional programs that minimize problems of misconduct and are sensitive to student and teacher needs.

5) Work with district administrators in enforcing the Code of Conduct and ensuring that all cases are resolved promptly and fairly.

6) Address all areas of school-related safety concerns.

Expectations of Board of Education

1. Collaborate with students, teachers, administrators and parent organizations, school safety personnel and other school personnel to develop a Code of Conduct that clearly defines expectations for the conduct of students, district personnel and visitors on school property and at school functions.

1. Approve and review at least annually the district's Code of Conduct to evaluate the code's effectiveness and the fairness and consistency of its implementation.

1. Appoint a Dignity for All Students (DASA) Coordinator; the DASA Coordinator will be thoroughly trained to handle human relations in the areas of race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender/gender identity, and sex. The Dignity for All Students (DASA) Coordinator will be accessible to students and other staff members for consultation and advice as needed on the Dignity Act.

1. Lead by example by conducting board meetings in a professional, respectful and courteous manner.

Student Dress Code

All students are expected to give proper attention to personal cleanliness and to dress appropriately for school and school functions.  Students and their parents have the primary responsibility for acceptable student dress and appearance.  Teachers and all other district personnel should exemplify and reinforce acceptable student dress and help students develop an understanding of appropriate appearance in the school building.

A student’s dress, grooming and appearance, including hairstyle/color, jewelry, makeup and nails, shall:

1. Be safe, appropriate and not disrupt or interfere with the educational process.
2. Recognize that extremely brief garments such as tube tops, net tops, halter tops, tank tops, spaghetti straps, plunging necklines, (front and/or back), “Daisy Dukes” and see-through garments are not appropriate.
3. Spandex alone will not be permitted.
4. Ensure that underwear is completely covered with outer clothing.
5. Include footwear at all times.  Footwear that is a safety hazard will not be allowed.
6. Not include the wearing of hats.
7. Not include items that are vulgar, obscene, libelous or denigrate others on account of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, gender, sexual orientation or disability.
8. Not infer, promote and/or endorse the use of alcohol, tobacco or illegal drugs and /or encourage other illegal or violent activities.

The principal or his or her designee shall be responsible for informing all students and their parents of the student dress code at the beginning of the school year and any revisions to the dress code made during the school year. Students who violate the student dress code shall be required to modify their appearance by covering or removing the offending item and, if necessary or practical, replacing it with an acceptable item.  Any student who refuses to do so shall be subject to discipline, up to and including in-school suspension for the day.  Any student who repeatedly fails to comply with the dress code shall be subject to further discipline, up to and including out of school suspension.

Student Use of Electronic Communication Devices

Students are prohibited from using or having any type of telecommunications or imaging device during instructional time (please see Cell Phone Policy on pg. 10 of this document).  Students are not permitted to use any form of information technology, including their own personal electronic devices, to intimidate, harass or threaten others. This type of harassment is generally referred to as cyber bullying. If a student violates this prohibition, then he/she is subject to discipline under this provision and/or any other provision in the district Code of Conduct that may be applicable to the circumstances involved.

Prohibited Student Conduct

The BOE expects all students to conduct themselves in an appropriate and civil manner per the district Code of Conduct, with proper regard for the rights and welfare of other students, personnel and other members of the school community, and for the care of facilities and equipment. These expectations also apply to internships and student work experience.

The best discipline is self-imposed, and students must learn to assume and accept responsibility for their own behavior, as well as the consequences of their misbehavior. District personnel who interact with students are expected to use disciplinary action only when necessary and to place emphasis on the students' ability to develop self-discipline.

The BOE recognizes the need to be clear and specific in expressing its expectations for student conduct while on district property or engaged in a district function. The rules of conduct listed below are intended to do that and focus on safety and respect for the rights and property of others.

Students who will not accept responsibility for their own behavior or who violate these school rules will be required to accept the consequences for their conduct. Students may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including suspension from school or removal from a program, when they engage in conduct that is disorderly, insubordinate, disruptive, violent, endangers the safety, morals, health or welfare of others, engage in misconduct on the school bus, or engage in academic misconduct including work/internship sites.

1. Engage in Conduct That is Disorderly

Examples of disorderly conduct include, but are not limited to:

1. Engaging in any act which disrupts the normal operation of the school community, running in the hallways, making unreasonable noise, and using language or gestures that are profane, lewd, vulgar, abusive, intimidating, or that incite others.

1. Obstructing vehicular or pedestrian traffic.

1. Trespassing. Students are not permitted in any area of the school building, other than the one they regularly attend, without permission from the administrator in charge of the building.

1. Misusing computer/electronic communications devices, including any unauthorized or inappropriate use of computers, software, or Internet/intranet account; accessing inappropriate websites; evading the district's content filter; using an outside wireless network; or any other violation of the District Acceptable Use Policy.  Unauthorized use of personal electronic devices/equipment (i.e., cell phones, MP3 devices, cameras, computer, laptop, tablet or e-reader and/or other computerized information resources) through the district computer system is prohibited as well as other personal electronic devices deemed inappropriate by the administration.

• Engage in Conduct That is Insubordinate

Examples of insubordinate conduct include, but are not limited to:

1. Failing to comply with the reasonable directions of teachers, school administrators or other

district employees or otherwise demonstrating disrespect.

1. Lateness for, missing or leaving school or class without permission.

1. Skipping class or detention. 

•    Engage in Conduct That is Disruptive

Examples of disruptive conduct include, but are not limited to:

1. Failing to comply with the reasonable directions of teachers, district administrators or other district employees or otherwise demonstrating disrespect.

1. Endangering the health and safety of other students or staff or interfering with classes or district activities by means of inappropriate appearance or behavior as per district Code of Conduct.

•   Engage in Conduct That is Violent

Examples of violent conduct include, but are not limited to:

1. Committing, threatening or attempting an act of violence (such as hitting, kicking, punching, or scratching) upon a student, staff, administrator, or any other person lawfully on school property.

1. Engaging in harassing conduct, verbal threats, intimidation, or abuse that reasonably causes or would reasonably be expected to cause a student, staff, administrator, or any other person lawfully on school property to fear for his or her physical well-being.

1. Possessing a weapon. Authorized law enforcement officials are the only persons permitted to have a weapon in their possession while on district property or at a district function. 

1. Displaying what appears to be a weapon.

1. Threatening to use, or the use of, any weapon(s).

1. Intentionally damaging or destroying district property, the personal property of a student, staff, administrator, or any person lawfully on district property, or at a district function.

1. Communication by any means, including oral, written or electronic (such as through the use of

Internet, email and/or texting,) off school property, where the content of such communication can reasonably be interpreted as:

1. a threat to commit an act of violence on school property
2. results in material or substantial disruption to the educational environment

1. Engage in Any Conduct That Endangers the Safety, Morals, Health or Welfare of Others

Examples of such conduct include, but are not limited to:

1. Lying, deceiving or giving false information to school personnel.

1. Stealing district property or the property of other students, school personnel or any other person lawfully on district property or while attending a district function.

1. Defamation, which includes making false or unprivileged statements or representations about an individual or identifiable group of individuals that harm the reputation of the person or the identifiable group by demeaning them. This can include posting or publishing video, audio recordings or pictures to any form of social media.

1. Discrimination, based on a person's actual or perceived disability, race, age, sexual orientation, color, creed, national origin, ethnic group, religion, sex, gender or gender identity, marital or veteran status as a basis for treating another in a negative manner on district school property or at a district function.

1. Harassment, the creation of a hostile environment by conduct or by verbal threats, intimidation or abuse that has or would have the effect of unreasonably and substantially interfering with a student's educational performance, opportunities or benefits, or mental, emotional or physical well being based on a person's actual or perceived disability, race, color, weight, national origin, political affiliation, ethnic group, religion, marital or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender or gender identity, or sex.

1. Bullying and intimidation, which includes engaging in actions or statements that put an individual in fear of bodily harm and/or emotional discomfort; for example, "play" fighting, extortion of money, overt teasing, etc.

1. "Internet bullying" (also referred to as "cyber bullying") including the use of instant messaging, email, websites, chat rooms, text messaging, or by any other electronic means, when such use interferes with the operation of the school or infringes upon the general health, safety and welfare of students or employees.

1. Sexual harassment, which includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, taking, sending or receiving sexually explicit videos, pictures or auditory recordings and other verbal or physical conduct or communication of a sexual nature. 

1. Displaying signs of gang affiliation or engaging in gang-related behaviors that are observed to increase the level of conflict or violent behavior. 

1. Hazing, which includes any intentional or reckless act directed against another for the purpose of initiation into, affiliating with or maintaining membership in any district sponsored activity, organization, club or team.

1. Selling, using, possessing or distributing obscene material.                

1. Possessing, consuming, selling, attempting to sell, distributing or exchanging alcoholic beverages, tobacco, tobacco products, electronic cigarettes, or illegal and/or controlled substances, counterfeit and designer drugs, or paraphernalia for use of such drugs or be under the influence of any such substances on district property or at a district function. "Illegal substances" include, but are not limited to, inhalants, marijuana, synthetic cannabinoids, synthetic stimulants, cocaine, LSD, PCP, amphetamines, heroin, steroids, look-alike drugs, drug paraphernalia and any substances commonly referred to as "designer drugs."

1. Inappropriately using, sharing, selling, attempting to sell, distributing or exchanging prescription and over-the-counter drugs.

1. Possessing, consuming, selling, attempting to sell, distributing, or exchanging "look-alike drugs"; or, possessing or consuming (without authorization), selling, attempting to sell, distributing or exchanging other substances such as dietary supplements, weight loss pills, etc.

1. Gambling and gaming.

1. Initiating or reporting warning of fire or other catastrophe without valid cause, misusing 911, or inappropriately discharging a fire extinguisher or pulling an alarm.

1. Violating gender privacy when using school restroom facilities.

1. Using vulgar or abusive language, cursing or swearing. 

1. Smoking a cigarette, cigar, pipe or using chewing or smokeless tobacco. 

The BOE expects all students to conduct themselves in an appropriate and civil manner per the District’s Code of Conduct, with proper regard for the rights and welfare of other students, personnel and other members of the school community, and for the care of facilities and equipment. These expectations also apply to internships and student work experiences.

The best discipline is self-imposed, and students must learn to assume and accept responsibility for their own behavior, as well as the consequences of their misbehavior.  District personnel who interact with students are expected to use disciplinary action only when necessary and to place emphasis on the student's ability to grow in self-discipline.

The BOE recognizes the need to make its expectations for student conduct while on district property or engaged in a district function specific and clear.  The rules of conduct listed below are intended to do that and focus on safety and respect for the rights and property of others.  Students who will not accept responsibility for their own behavior and who violate these school rules will be required to accept the penalties for their conduct. Students may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including suspension from school or removal from a program, when they engage in conduct that is disorderly, insubordinate, disruptive, violent, endangers the safety, morals, health or welfare of others, engage in misconduct on the school bus, or engage in academic misconduct including work/internship sites.

1. Engage in Misconduct While on a School Bus

It is crucial for students to behave appropriately while riding on district buses to ensure their safety and that of other passengers and to avoid distracting the bus driver. Students are required to conduct themselves on the bus in a manner consistent with established standards for classroom behavior. Excessive noise, pushing, shoving, fighting, harassment, and discrimination will not be tolerated.

1. Engage in Any Form of Academic Misconduct

Examples of academic misconduct include, but are not limited to:

1. Plagiarism.

1. Cheating.

1. Altering records.

1. Accessing other users' email accounts or network storage accounts and/or attempting to read, delete, copy, modify, and interfere with the transferring and receiving of electronic communications.

1. Violation of the District Acceptable Use Policy for technology.

1. Assisting another student in any of the above actions.

Disciplinary Penalties, Procedures and Referrals

Discipline is most effective when it deals directly with the problem at the time and place it occurs, and in a way that students view as fair and impartial.  District personnel who interact with students are expected to use disciplinary action only when necessary and to place emphasis on the students’ ability to grow in self-discipline.

Disciplinary action, when necessary, will be firm, fair and consistent so as to be the most effective in changing student behavior.  In determining the appropriate disciplinary action, district personnel authorized to impose disciplinary penalties will consider the following:

1. The student’s age.
2. The nature of the offense and the circumstances which led to the offense.
3. The student’s prior disciplinary record.
4. The effectiveness of other forms of discipline.
5. Information from parents, teachers and/or others, as appropriate.
6. Other extenuating circumstances.

As a general rule, discipline will be progressive.  This means that a student’s first violation will usually merit a lighter penalty than subsequent violations. If the conduct of a student is related to a disability or suspected disability, the student shall be referred to the Committee on Special Education(CSE) and discipline, if warranted, shall be administered consistent with the separate requirements of this code of conduct for disciplining students with a disability.  A student identified as having a disability shall not be disciplined for behavior related to his/her disability.

Penalties

Students who are found to have violated the District’s Code of Conduct may be subject to the following penalties.  The district personnel identified after each penalty are authorized to impose that penalty, consistent with the student’s right to due process. Consequences will be administered at the discretion of the administration regarding the severity of the infraction.

1. Verbal warning – any member of the district staff.
2. Written warning – any member of the district staff.
3. Written notification to parents – coaches, school counselors, teachers, principal, superintendent.
4. Detention – teachers, principal, superintendent. 
5. Suspension from transportation – principal, superintendent.
6. Suspension from athletic participation – coaches, athletic director, principal, superintendent.
7. Suspension from social or extracurricular activities – principal, superintendent.
8. Suspension of other privileges – principal, superintendent.
9. In-school suspension – principal, superintendent
10. Removal from classroom by teacher – teacher, principal, superintendent.
11. Short-term (five days or less) suspension from school – principal, superintendent.
12. Long-term (more than five days) suspension from school – superintendent.
13. Permanent suspension from school – superintendent.
14. Consequences for accumulated Code of Conduct infractions:

1. Excessive CRs in one school year may initiate a PINS referral or a Superintendent’s Hearing.
2. Loss of student privilege on the day(s) of an in-school suspension assignment. This includes all activities until the next scheduled school day.

Suspension from Transportation

If a student does not conduct himself/herself properly on a bus, the bus driver is expected to bring such misconduct to the building principal’s attention.  Students who become a serious disciplinary problem may have their riding privileges suspended by the principal or the superintendent.  In such cases, the student’s parent will become responsible for seeing that his or her child gets to and from school safely.  A student subjected to a suspension from transportation is not entitled to a full hearing pursuant to Education Law §3214.  However, the student’s parents will be provided with a reasonable opportunity for an informal conference with the principal or superintendent to discuss the conduct and the penalty involved.

Visitors to the Schools

The BOE encourages parents and other district citizens to visit the district and classrooms to observe the work of students, teachers and other staff.  Since schools are a place of work and learning, however, certain limits must be set for such visits.  The principal or superintendent is responsible for all persons in the building and on the grounds.  For these reasons, the following rules apply to visitors to the school:

1. Anyone who is not a regular staff member or student of the school will be considered a visitor.
2. All visitors to the school must report to the office of the principal upon arrival at the school where they will be required to sign the visitor’s register.
3. Visitors attending district functions that are open to the public, such as parent-teacher organization meetings or public gatherings, are not required to register.
4. Teachers are expected not to take class time to discuss individual matters with visitors.
5. Any unauthorized person on district property will be reported to the principal or superintendent.  Unauthorized persons will be asked to leave.  The police may be called if the situation warrants.
6. All visitors are expected to abide by the rules for public conduct on district property contained in this Code of Conduct.

Dissemination 

The BOE will work to ensure that the community is aware of this Code of Conduct by:

1. Providing a public hearing prior to BOE approval.

1. Providing a summary of the Code of Conduct to all students, in an age-appropriate, plain language version, at a general school assembly held at the beginning of each school year.

1. The Code of Conduct will be available on the district website to all district staff, students, parents at the beginning of the school year.

The BOE will sponsor an in-service education program for all district staff members to ensure the effective implementation of the Code of Conduct. The Superintendent may solicit the recommendations of the district staff, particularly teachers and administrators, regarding in-service programs pertaining to the management and discipline of students.

The BOE, via a committee of representative stakeholders, will review this Code of Conduct every year and update it as necessary. In conducting a review, the BOE will consider how effective the code's provisions have been and whether the Code of Conduct has been applied fairly and consistently.

The BOE may appoint an advisory committee to assist in reviewing the Code of Conduct and the district's response to Code of Conduct violations. The committee will be made up of representatives of student, teacher, administrator, and parent organizations, district safety personnel and other district personnel.

Before adopting any revisions to the Code of Conduct, the BOE will hold at least one public hearing at which school personnel, parents, students and any other interested party may participate.

The district shall post the complete Code of Conduct (with all amendments and annual updates) on the district's website. The district shall file a copy of its Code of Conduct and any amendments with the Commissioner, in a manner prescribed by the Commissioner, no later than thirty (30) days after their respective adoptions.