STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

[ORGANIZATION NAME]

Academic Year [YEAR-YEAR]

PURPOSE AND PHILOSOPHY

Mission Statement

[ORGANIZATION NAME] ("Organization") is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and productive learning environment for all students. This Student Code of Conduct establishes expectations for student behavior that support the educational mission and ensure the safety and well-being of all community members.

Educational Philosophy

We believe that:
- All students can learn and succeed in a supportive environment
- Clear expectations help students develop self-discipline and responsibility
- Consequences should be fair, consistent, and designed to teach appropriate behavior
- Positive reinforcement is as important as corrective action
- Students, parents, and staff share responsibility for maintaining a positive environment

SECTION 1: STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1.1 Student Rights

Every student has the right to:

☐ A safe and secure learning environment free from harassment and harm
☐ Be treated with dignity and respect by staff and peers
☐ Fair and equitable treatment regardless of background
☐ Quality educational instruction and support
☐ Express opinions respectfully within appropriate forums
☐ Due process before disciplinary action is taken
☐ Privacy of personal and educational records
☐ Access to support services and accommodations when needed
☐ Appeal disciplinary decisions through established procedures

1.2 Student Responsibilities

Every student has the responsibility to:

☐ Attend regularly and arrive on time
☐ Come prepared to learn with necessary materials
☐ Respect the rights and property of others
☐ Follow all rules and instructions from staff
☐ Participate actively in the learning process
☐ Resolve conflicts peacefully and respectfully
☐ Accept responsibility for their own actions
☐ Contribute positively to the learning community
☐ Report safety concerns to staff

SECTION 2: BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS

2.1 Core Values

All students are expected to demonstrate the following core values:

RESPECT
☐ Treat all people with courtesy and consideration
☐ Use appropriate language at all times
☐ Listen when others are speaking
☐ Respect personal boundaries and privacy
☐ Honor diverse perspectives and backgrounds

RESPONSIBILITY
☐ Take ownership of actions and decisions
☐ Complete assignments and fulfill commitments
☐ Care for personal and organizational property
☐ Follow through on expectations
☐ Accept consequences for choices

INTEGRITY
☐ Be honest in all communications
☐ Do not cheat, plagiarize, or deceive
☐ Keep promises and commitments
☐ Act ethically even when unobserved
☐ Admit mistakes and learn from them

SAFETY
☐ Follow all safety rules and procedures
☐ Report unsafe conditions or behaviors
☐ Keep hands, feet, and objects to oneself
☐ Use equipment and materials properly
☐ Make choices that protect self and others

KINDNESS
☐ Be inclusive and welcoming to all
☐ Help others when appropriate
☐ Use encouraging words
☐ Show empathy and compassion
☐ Avoid gossip and hurtful comments

2.2 Classroom/Program Expectations

Students are expected to:

☐ Arrive on time and prepared
☐ Follow instructions promptly
☐ Raise hand and wait to be recognized
☐ Stay focused on learning activities
☐ Keep workspace clean and organized
☐ Use technology appropriately and only as directed
☐ Participate actively and positively
☐ Support the learning of others

2.3 Common Area Expectations

In hallways, cafeterias, and other common areas:

☐ Walk, don't run
☐ Keep noise at appropriate levels
☐ Keep right and allow others to pass
☐ Dispose of trash properly
☐ Maintain appropriate physical boundaries
☐ Be where you are supposed to be

2.4 Technology and Online Expectations

When using Organization technology or participating in online activities:

☐ Use technology for educational purposes only
☐ Follow the Acceptable Use Policy
☐ Protect passwords and personal information
☐ Report inappropriate content or communications
☐ Do not cyberbully, harass, or threaten others
☐ Do not access inappropriate websites
☐ Respect intellectual property and copyrights
☐ Represent yourself honestly online

SECTION 3: PROHIBITED CONDUCT

3.1 Level 1 Violations (Minor)

The following behaviors are minor violations that disrupt learning:

☐ Tardiness to class or activities
☐ Minor disruption of class
☐ Not following directions
☐ Unprepared for class (missing materials)
☐ Minor disrespect (tone, attitude)
☐ Off-task behavior
☐ Minor dress code violation
☐ Inappropriate language (minor)
☐ Running in hallways
☐ Littering
☐ Public display of affection (minor)
☐ Electronic device violation (first offense)

Typical Consequences: Verbal warning, written warning, parent contact, detention, loss of privileges

3.2 Level 2 Violations (Moderate)

The following behaviors are moderate violations requiring significant intervention:

☐ Repeated Level 1 violations
☐ Defiance or insubordination
☐ Disrespectful behavior toward staff or peers
☐ Dishonesty or lying
☐ Academic dishonesty (cheating, plagiarism)
☐ Leaving supervised area without permission
☐ Inappropriate language (profanity)
☐ Minor property damage (accidental or careless)
☐ Bullying (initial incident, non-severe)
☐ Unauthorized use of technology
☐ Possession of prohibited items (non-dangerous)
☐ Inappropriate physical contact

Typical Consequences: Parent conference, detention, community service, behavior contract, short-term suspension

3.3 Level 3 Violations (Serious)

The following behaviors are serious violations requiring immediate administrative action:

☐ Repeated Level 2 violations
☐ Fighting or physical aggression
☐ Threats or intimidation
☐ Severe or persistent bullying
☐ Harassment (verbal, physical, sexual)
☐ Discrimination or hate speech
☐ Vandalism or property destruction
☐ Theft
☐ Forgery or falsifying documents
☐ Severe insubordination
☐ Leaving premises without permission
☐ Inappropriate sexual conduct
☐ Possession of dangerous items
☐ Creating safety hazards

Typical Consequences: Suspension (in-school or out-of-school), behavior intervention plan, referral to outside agencies

3.4 Level 4 Violations (Severe)

The following behaviors are severe violations that may result in expulsion and/or legal action:

☐ Possession, use, or distribution of weapons
☐ Possession, use, or distribution of drugs or alcohol
☐ Assault or battery
☐ Arson or fire-setting
☐ Sexual assault or abuse
☐ Serious criminal activity
☐ Threats of violence (bomb threats, shooting threats)
☐ Gang-related activity
☐ Repeated serious violations
☐ Conduct endangering life or safety

Typical Consequences: Long-term suspension, expulsion, referral to law enforcement

SECTION 4: SPECIFIC POLICY AREAS

4.1 Bullying and Harassment

Definition: Bullying is repeated, intentional behavior that causes physical or emotional harm and creates an imbalance of power. This includes:

☐ Physical bullying (hitting, pushing, taking belongings)
☐ Verbal bullying (name-calling, insults, threats)
☐ Social/relational bullying (exclusion, rumor-spreading)
☐ Cyberbullying (online harassment, embarrassing posts)

Policy:
☐ Bullying is strictly prohibited
☐ All reports will be investigated
☐ Retaliation against reporters is prohibited
☐ Consequences range from intervention to expulsion

Reporting:
Students who experience or witness bullying should report to [CONTACT PERSON/METHOD].

4.2 Academic Integrity

Definition: Academic integrity means completing work honestly without cheating, plagiarism, or other forms of academic dishonesty.

Prohibited conduct includes:
☐ Copying another's work or allowing others to copy
☐ Using unauthorized materials on tests or assignments
☐ Plagiarism (presenting others' work as your own)
☐ Fabricating data or sources
☐ Submitting the same work for multiple assignments
☐ Unauthorized collaboration

Consequences: May include zero on assignment, parent notification, academic probation, or dismissal.

4.3 Dress Code

[INSERT ORGANIZATION'S DRESS CODE REQUIREMENTS]

Students are expected to:
☐ Dress appropriately for educational activities
☐ Wear clothing that does not disrupt learning
☐ Follow specific dress requirements for activities (PE, labs, etc.)
☐ [ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS]

4.4 Attendance

☐ Regular attendance is essential for success
☐ Parents must report absences by [TIME/METHOD]
☐ Excessive absences may result in academic or enrollment consequences
☐ Tardiness disrupts learning and should be avoided

4.5 Electronic Devices

☐ Personal electronic devices: [POLICY - prohibited/permitted with restrictions]
☐ Cell phones: [POLICY]
☐ Organization-issued devices governed by Acceptable Use Policy
☐ Unauthorized use may result in confiscation and disciplinary action

4.6 Substance Use

☐ Possession, use, or distribution of drugs, alcohol, or tobacco is strictly prohibited
☐ This includes vaping and e-cigarettes
☐ Applies on premises, at events, and during transportation
☐ Violations may result in suspension, expulsion, and legal referral

SECTION 5: DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES

5.1 General Principles

☐ Discipline shall be fair, consistent, and age-appropriate
☐ Consequences shall be proportional to the violation
☐ Students shall have opportunity to explain their perspective
☐ Disciplinary decisions consider student history and circumstances
☐ Goals include teaching appropriate behavior, not just punishment

5.2 Progressive Discipline

For most violations, discipline follows a progressive model:

Step 1: Warning and redirection
Step 2: Teacher/staff consequence (detention, loss of privileges)
Step 3: Parent notification and conference
Step 4: Administrative intervention
Step 5: Suspension or more serious consequences

Severe violations may skip progressive steps.

5.3 Suspension

In-School Suspension:
☐ Student remains on premises but separated from regular activities
☐ Educational work continued during suspension

Out-of-School Suspension:
☐ Student excluded from premises for specified period
☐ Parent must meet before student returns
☐ Make-up work policy: [SPECIFY]

5.4 Expulsion

☐ Expulsion is the permanent removal from the Organization
☐ Reserved for severe or repeated serious violations
☐ Decision made by [ADMINISTRATOR/BOARD]
☐ Student may be barred from premises and events

5.5 Due Process

Before significant discipline:
☐ Student will be informed of the alleged violation
☐ Student will have opportunity to respond
☐ Parent/guardian will be notified
☐ Investigation will be conducted as appropriate
☐ Decision will be documented

5.6 Appeals

☐ Students/parents may appeal disciplinary decisions to [AUTHORITY]
☐ Appeals must be submitted in writing within [NUMBER] days
☐ Appeal should include reason for appeal and desired outcome
☐ Appeal decisions are final

SECTION 6: POSITIVE BEHAVIOR SUPPORT

6.1 Recognition and Rewards

Organization recognizes positive behavior through:

☐ Verbal praise and encouragement
☐ Recognition certificates and awards
☐ Positive notes home to parents
☐ Special privileges
☐ Honor roll or achievement recognition
☐ [OTHER RECOGNITION PROGRAMS]

6.2 Intervention and Support

For students struggling with behavior:

☐ Counseling and support services
☐ Behavior intervention plans
☐ Check-in/check-out programs
☐ Mentoring programs
☐ Parent collaboration
☐ Referral to outside resources

SECTION 7: SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES

7.1 Students with Disabilities

☐ Discipline for students with disabilities follows IDEA and Section 504 requirements
☐ Manifestation determinations required before suspension over 10 days
☐ IEP/504 teams address behavioral needs
☐ Behavioral intervention plans may be developed

7.2 Search and Seizure

☐ Organization may search student belongings with reasonable suspicion
☐ Lockers/storage (if provided) are Organization property subject to search
☐ Illegal items will be turned over to law enforcement

7.3 Law Enforcement Involvement

☐ Organization will contact law enforcement for criminal violations
☐ Organization cooperates with law enforcement investigations
☐ Organization may involve School Resource Officer (if available)

SECTION 8: PARENT/GUARDIAN RESPONSIBILITIES

Parents/Guardians are expected to:

☐ Review this Code of Conduct with their student
☐ Support the Organization's disciplinary decisions
☐ Ensure regular student attendance
☐ Communicate with staff about concerns
☐ Provide accurate contact information
☐ Pick up students promptly when required
☐ Model respectful behavior
☐ Work collaboratively with staff on behavioral concerns

SECTION 9: ACKNOWLEDGMENT

9.1 Student Acknowledgment

I have read (or had read to me) and understand the Student Code of Conduct. I agree to follow all rules and accept the consequences for violations.

Student Signature: _________________________________ Date: _____________

Student Printed Name: _________________________________

Grade/Program: _________________________________

9.2 Parent/Guardian Acknowledgment

I have reviewed the Student Code of Conduct with my child. I understand the expectations and consequences. I agree to support the Organization in maintaining a safe and respectful learning environment.

Parent/Guardian Signature: _________________________________ Date: _____________

Printed Name: _________________________________

Relationship to Student: _________________________________

CONTACT INFORMATION

For questions about this Code of Conduct or to report concerns:

[ADMINISTRATOR/CONTACT NAME]
Title: [TITLE]
Phone: [PHONE]
Email: [EMAIL]

Anonymous Reporting:
[METHOD - hotline, online form, etc.]

REVISION HISTORY

This Student Code of Conduct is provided as a template for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult with a qualified attorney in your jurisdiction to ensure compliance with applicable laws, including requirements for students with disabilities and due process rights.