Staff Behavior Code of Conduct

  •  Revised 2/8/18

    Overview

    The Essex Westford School District (EWSD) is committed to providing a safe and respectful learning and working environment for all students and staff.  Towards that end, EWSD expects all staff to demonstrate the highest standards of conduct and ethics in their school and community relationships and in the performance of their duties, and to avoid unprofessional and inappropriate conduct. 

    School staff members are in a unique position of trust and influence as role models for students. Therefore, staff must adhere to behavior that sets a good example to all students within the school and the community.

    Staff members also have an individual responsibility to maintain their reputation and the reputation of the school, both inside and outside working hours and work setting.

    All staff members are expected to read and to comply with this code of conduct.

    Full Document: Staff Behavior Code of Conduct

    Table of Contents

    A. Professional and Ethical Conduct Towards Others
        1. Expected Conduct

    B. Professional and Ethical Relationships with Students
        1. Expected Conduct
        2. Additional Considerations
        3. Additional Rules Related to Physical Contact with Students
        4. Additional Safeguards
            a. Locker room/Restroom
            b. Social Events
            c. Open Door Policy
            d. One-on-one Tutoring
            e. Confidant(e)

    C. Ethical Conduct in the Work Environment
        1. Expected Conduct

    D. Conflicts of Interest
        1. Hiring of Personnel/Personal Relationships with Subordinates
        2. Purchasing/Financial Interests
        3. Acceptance of Gifts and Other Benefits
        4. Tutoring for Pay
        5. Non-School Employment by Staff Members
        6. Staff Participation in Political Activities

    E. Staff Fundraising and Solicitations

    F. Technology Use
        1. Definition
        2. Prohibited Uses
        3. Cell Phone Use While Driving
        4. Personal Use of Electronic Resources
        5. Social Media
        6. Company Equipment
        7. Video or Audio Recording Devices
        8. Technology Received Using Professional Development Funds
        9. Privacy
        10. Limitations/Disclaimer of Liability

    G. Transporting Students

    H. Conduct Outside of Work
        1. Criminal Convictions
        2. Substantiation of Abuse/Neglect
        3. Driving Offenses

    Appendix A: Examples of Unacceptable Conduct

    Appendix B: Unacceptable Relationships with Students