Code of Conduct
Code of Conduct Policy
After a comprehensive review of the Code of Conduct that included consultations with each of our schools’ School Safety Teams and with numerous individuals and interest groups, Deborah Augarten, Assistant Superintendent for PPS and Special Education, recommended and the Board of Education recently approved, several changes to the Code of Conduct.
The Code of Conduct has been updated in a number of minor ways; however, the principal changes to the Code are to insure compliance with the Dignity for All Students Act. The White Plains School District is committed to providing an educational and working environment that promotes respect, dignity and equality. The school district recognizes that discrimination, harassment, hazing and/or bullying are detrimental to student learning and achievement. To this end, the school district condemns and strictly prohibits all forms of discrimination, harassment, hazing and/or bullying on school grounds, school buses and at all school-sponsored activities, programs and events.
In keeping with the requirements of Project SAVE (Save Schools Against Violence in Education Act) enacted by the State, the Board of Education adopted a Code of Conduct in June of 2001, with the latest revision in June, 2014. The Code was developed around the belief that a dynamic educational environment is one that creates opportunities for the development of responsible and productive citizens, where everyone is treated with respect and dignity, and where decisions are based solely on what works best for students.
The district has had a long history of high expectations for acceptable behavior and this comprehensive document incorporates and expands upon many of the policies and programs that have been in use in the district for some time. It was designed around five core principles that govern its implementation:
- A safe and orderly school environment is essential to learning.
- Students, staff and visitors will be held responsible for their own actions.
- Home/school partnerships are critical to success.
- School rules and their enforcement should be fair, just and non-discriminatory.
- Respect must be given for each persons unique needs.
The document includes Rights and Responsibilities, Dress Code, Student Conduct, Reporting of Violations, Student Disciplinary Penalties, Procedures and Referrals, Punishment, Student Searches and Interrogations and Public Conduct on School Property.
Excerpts of the Code are enclosed every year in the calendar mailing.