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Conduct & Behavior

Code of Conduct Plain Language Summary

Introduction:

The Code of Conduct is a guide that helps everyone at school know how to act so our school stays safe,
respectful, and fair. It was created with help from the Board of Education—a group of community members
who help lead our schools and make sure everyone is treated with respect.

Student Rights and Responsibilities

Every student has the right to a safe, respectful, and supportive school where they can learn, grow, and be treated fairly—free from bullying, harassment, or discrimination. In return, students are responsible for following school rules, respecting others, managing their behavior, and representing the school with pride both in and out of the classroom.

Essential Partners

Creating a safe and respectful school takes teamwork. Students, parents, teachers, counselors, principals, the superintendent, and the Board of Education all have important roles. Everyone is expected to communicate, follow school rules, support student learning, and work together to make school a great place to be.

Student Dress Code

Students must dress in a way that is safe, respectful, and appropriate for learning. Clothes should cover undergarments, avoid offensive messages, and follow basic safety rules—especially during PE. While students can express their style, staff may ask for changes if clothing breaks the rules. Repeated violations may lead to consequences, but students are always allowed to dress in ways that reflect their gender identity.

Reporting Discrimination, Harassment, and Bullying (Dignity for All Students Act)

Any student or parent can report bullying or discrimination to any adult at school. The principal will make sure the situation is investigated quickly and kept as private as possible. The school will take steps to stop the behavior and support the student who was harmed. Retaliation is not allowed. Every school has a DASA Coordinator (the principal) who is trained to handle these issues and promote a safe, respectful environment for everyone.

  • High School: Mr. Edward Waskiewicz, 75 Chenango Ave, Clinton, NY 13323 (315-557-2233)
  • Middle School: Dr. Amie Johnson, 75 Chenango Ave, Clinton, NY 13323 (315-557-2260)
  • Elementary School: Ms. Meggan Alt, 75 Chenango Ave, Clinton, NY 13323 (315-557-2256)
     

Prohibited Student Conduct

Students are expected to act safely, respectfully, and responsibly both at school and at school events. Breaking rules like disrupting class, being disrespectful, harming others, vandalizing property, bullying, using nicotine, drugs or alcohol, misbehaving on the bus, cheating, or causing problems off-campus can lead to disciplinary action. Everyone is responsible for making school a safe and positive place to learn.

Students are expected to act responsibly even when they are not at school. Misconduct that happens off school grounds may still lead to consequences if it disrupts learning or school activities. This includes:

  1. Threatening or harassing other students or school staff outside of school
  2. Cyberbullying or sending harmful messages online or through social media

If off-campus behavior affects the school environment, the school may take disciplinary action.

Reporting Violations

Students must report serious problems like weapons, drugs, or dangerous behavior to a trusted adult immediately. Staff must act quickly and fairly to address problems. If a crime may have been committed, the school will notify the police the same day and take appropriate action to keep everyone safe.

Disciplinary Penalties, Procedures, and Referrals

The district believes discipline should be fair, respectful, and help students grow. Staff consider factors like the student’s age, situation, and history before assigning consequences. Penalties range from warnings and detention to suspension and, in serious cases, permanent removal. Students always have the right to know the charges and explain their side before major penalties are given. Suspensions can be short-term (up to 5 days) or long-term (over 5 days) with different levels of parent notification and hearing rights. Students who bring weapons, commit violent acts, or are repeatedly disruptive face minimum suspension periods. The school may also refer students to counseling, Family Court (through a PINS petition), or law enforcement when necessary. Special rules apply for students with disabilities to protect their rights.

Alternative Instruction

If a student is removed from class or suspended from school, the District will make sure the student continues to receive an education.

  • This includes instruction, assignments, and activities that support the student’s learning.
  • The school will provide an alternative educational program that meets the student’s needs, even while they are out of class.

This ensures that all students, no matter the situation, have the opportunity to keep learning.