Code of Conduct

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. School 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 most effective in changing student behavior. In determining the appropriate disciplinary action, school personnel authorized to impose disciplinary penalties will consider the following:

• The student’s age;
• The nature of the offense and the circumstances which led to the offense;
• The student’s prior disciplinary record;
• The effectiveness of other forms of discipline;
• Information from parents, teachers and/or others, as appropriate;
• 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 and discipline, if warranted, shall be administered consistent with the separate requirements of this code of conduct for disciplining students with a disability or presumed to have a disability. A student identified as having a disability shall not be disciplined for behavior related to his/her disability, unless the discipline is consistent with the student’s individualized education plan (IEP).

The types of misconduct and levels of severity are applicable to students in K-12. Specific rules and regulations for students in grades K-12 are found in the student rules/handbooks/brochures.