Code of Conduct

Introduction

On July 24, 2000 the Safe Schools Against Violence in Education Act (SAVE) was enacted into law by the State of New York. This legislation is one of the most comprehensive regulations in the nation seeking to address school safety and violence prevention. Every school district throughout the state is required to be in full compliance by July 1, 2002. The Westbury Board of Education adopted its district-wide School Safety Plan on June 13, 2001. Included in this plan is the district’s Code of Conduct A complete copy of the Code of Conduct is available upon request by contacting the district office.

Westbury Schools are committed to promoting safe and healthy learning environments where students are secure in their pursuit of educational success. The right to learn and to teach in an educational setting that is safe, free from disruption, and conducive to learning is essential.

RESPONSIBILITIES …of Students

To respect authority and obey school rules in order to be responsible citizens.

To show respect and consideration for the personal and property rights of others.

To demonstrate effective work/study habits by putting forth their best educational efforts.

To provide praise to others who earn it and acknowledge one’s own positive characteristics and successes.

To alert school authorities when aware of potential security or safety concerns and/or code violations.

…of Parents

To respond to communication from school and to initiate such communication, if needed.

To prepare the student to assume a positive attitude in the school environment, including respecting the rights of others and the authority of all staff.

To understand and support the Westbury School District CODE OF CONDUCT.

To alert school authorities when aware of potential security or safety concerns and/or code violations.

…of Staff

To inform parents/guardians adequately in matters related to student conduct.

To consistently enforce standards for all students while providing a challenging curriculum.

To assume primary responsibility for enforcing the CODE OF CONDUCT through the use of various techniques at the classroom and building levels, such as student-staff conferences, contact with parents, and other disciplinary techniques.

To alert school authorities when aware of potential security or safety concerns and/or code violations.

To immediately refer violent and repeatedly disruptive students for minimum suspension.

Superintendent’s Responsibilities

The superintendent may suspend a student for more than five (5) school days or issue a permanent suspension. Any suspension beyond five (5) days requires a superintendent’s hearing.

A parent or guardian may appeal a disciplinary decision only in the event of a violation of due process, i.e., the right to present his/her side of the story.

 

CONSEQUENCES FOR UNACCEPTABLE STUDENT BEHAVIOR

Westbury School District has adopted a uniform discipline code for all students. It is recognized that the primary responsibility for student discipline lies with each staff member. However, if a staff member feels a referral is necessary, the principal shall apply the code based on the prior disciplinary record. Follow-up with the referring staff member shall be the responsibility of the principal. Consequences of misbehavior include in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension, detention, community service, loss of privileges, and an abbreviated day. Any student whose behavior continues to be unacceptable shall be referred to the appropriate pupil personnel service and/or an Alternative Learning Center. Following is a listing of violations and actions a principal or superintendent shall enforce for infraction of the CODE OF CONDUCT consistent with a student’s right to due process. Students who are suspended shall not participate in any school activities nor be allowed on any District property for the duration of the suspension.
 

View the list of violations and administrative actions (PDF)

 

Supporting students' academic, social and moral growth