C20. Student Conduct and Discipline

  • Policy Code: C20

    First Reading:   May 16, 2017
    Second Reading:  June 6, 2017
    Adopted:   June 6, 2017  

    arrow Related: EWSD Parent-Student Handbook

    arrow Related: EWSD Weapons and Firearms Policy

    Policy

    It is the policy of the Essex Westford Educational Community Unified Union School District (EWECUUSD) to maintain a safe, orderly, civil and positive learning environment via a system of classroom and school management practices, supported by consistent, clear and fair disciplinary procedures.

    The goal of this policy is to create an environment where the rules for student behavior are clearly stated, are understood and accepted by students and staff, and are applied in compliance with due process requirements. This policy is to be applied in conjunction with the school's overall discipline plan developed pursuant to 16 V.S.A. § 1161a.

    Student Responsibilities   

    It is the responsibility of each student to contribute to a safe and productive learning environment in the school by demonstrating respect and consideration for fellow students and adults. This includes complying with all policies and rules of conduct of the school district and individual classrooms.

    Administrative Responsibilities

    The principal, in consultation with the educational staff, will develop an overall discipline plan pursuant to 16 V.S.A. §1161a.

    The plan will include clear guidelines for student behavior. The guidelines may include provisions for the suspension or expulsion of students who engage in misconduct on school property, on a school bus, or at a school sponsored activity when the misconduct makes the continued presence of the student harmful to the welfare of the school.

    The guidelines may also include provisions for the suspension or expulsion of students who engage in misconduct not on school property, on a school bus, or at a school sponsored activity where direct harm to the school can be demonstrated or where the misconduct can be shown to pose a clear and substantial interference with another student’s equal access to educational programs.[1]

    The guidelines for student behavior will also reflect the expectations set forth in Policy C5: Weapons and Firearms.

    Behavioral expectations, and the consequences of misconduct, will be stated in the student handbook and other publications distributed to students and parents/guardians.

     

     

     

     

    Legal Reference(s):

    16 V.S.A. §1161a (discipline)

     

    16 V.S.A. §1162 (suspension and expulsion)

     

    20 U.S.C. §§1400 et seq.(IDEA)

     

    29 U.S.C. §794 (Section 504, Rehabilitation Act of 1973)

     

    VT State Board of Education Manual of Rules & Practices §4311, 4312, 4313; 2120.8.12

    Cross Reference:

    Board Commitment to Non-Discrimination

     

    Public Complaints About Personnel


    [1]     See 16 V.S.A. § 1162(a)(3)