High School Student Code of Conduct
- Administration of the Conduct Code
- Application of the Student Rules of Conduct
- Loss of Privileges
- Progressive Discipline Ladder
- Detentions
- Alternative Learning Canter (ALC)
- Out of School Suspension and Appeal of Out of School Suspension
- Expulsion and Appeal of Expulsion
- Emergency Removal of Students
- Permanent Exclusion
- Discipline of Students with Disabilities
- Discipline Alternative Program Options
- Personal Property
- Memorandum to Parents Regarding School Board Policy on Drug-Free Schools
- Counterfeit Controlled Substances
- Use of Tobacco on School Property (Property 7434)
- Care of Property
- Public Display of Affection
- Gambling
- School Decorum
- Dress Code
- Loitering, Trespassing, and Unauthorized Entry
- Anti-Hazing Policy
- Student Rules of Conduct First Warning
- Weapons in School
- Visitors' Weapons Policy
- Harassment Regulations/Students
- Definition of Harassment
- Search and Seizure, Lockers, desk, and Other School Property, Automobile Searches on School Property, and Student Person and Student Personal Property
Administration of the Conduct Code
The administration of the student code of conduct will be progressive and cumulative for each individual student. The administration of the code will be based on an eight-step process as outlined below. The number of violations and/or seriousness of violations will determine the severity of the disciplinary action administered and will also determine the step at which the student enters the ladder.
Application of the Student Rules of Conduct
Conduct Code Dublin City Schools
Required by State Statute/Approved by Board of Education.
Application of the Student Rules of Conduct
These conduct codes apply to all school premises, to all phases of school operations, including but not limited to curricular and extracurricular activities, while being transported on a school bus or authorized transportation and at any school-sponsored activity and to any other circumstance such that the conduct in question has an effect of disrupting school operations or otherwise depriving any student of educational interests or opportunities. Furthermore, students may be disciplined for misconduct that occurs off of property owned or controlled by the district or school but that is connected to activities or incidents that have occurred on property owned or controlled by that district or school and for misconduct regardless of where it occurs that is directed at a district or school official or employee, or the property of such official or employee.
A violation of any rule may result in disciplinary action including assigned work; promotion and retention or credit penalties; detention; loss of privileges; written notice to or conference with parents; compensatory payment of damages; Saturday School; Alternative Learning Center; out-of-school suspension; in-school parent monitoring program; expulsion; emergency removal; or referral to Franklin County Children’s Services and/or juvenile court.
A student shall NOT, in any way, aid or abet another student in violating the rules of conduct. Students behaving in this manner will be disciplined according to the consequences given for the rule being violated.
In addition, this Code of Conduct includes:
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Misconduct by a student that occurs off school district property but is connected to activities or incidents that have occurred on school district property; and
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Misconduct by a student that, regardless of where it occurs, is directed at a district official or employee or property of an official or employee.
RULE 1. Dublin City Schools is committed to promoting a healthy and safe environment for each student. Narcotics, alcoholic beverages, drugs, drug paraphernalia, counterfeit controlled substances, mood altering chemicals of any kind: A student shall not buy, sell, attempt to sell, supply, apply, possess, use, transmit, conceal, be under the influence of the aforementioned items, facilitate and/or assist in the sale of aforementioned items, or otherwise violate regulations “counterfeit controlled substances” or “Substance Misuse.” (Also see “Search and Seizure”.)
“Possession” includes, without limitation, retention on the student person or in purses, wallets, lockers, desks, or automobiles parked on school property.
“Under the Influence” is defined as manifesting signs of chemical misuse, such as restlessness, staggering, odor of chemicals, memory loss, abusive language or behavior, falling asleep in class or any other behavior not normal for the particular student.
“Mood altering chemical” includes, without limitation: narcotics, depressants, stimulants, hallucinogens, counterfeit controlled substances, marijuana, alcohol, and prescription drugs, nonprescription medications which are taken for unauthorized or abusive purposes or in doses above the recommended dosage on the packaging, unless authorized by a medical prescription from a licensed physician and kept in the original container, which shall state the student’s name and the directions for proper use.
“Instrument or paraphernalia” shall include, but not be limited to, equipment or apparatus designed or used for the purpose of measuring, packaging, distributing, or facilitating the use of drugs, pipes, roach clips, syringes and hypodermic needles, cocaine spoons, rolling papers, and drug kits.
The principal may arrange for a test for blood-alcohol to be conducted on a student whenever she/he has individualized reasonable suspicion to believe that a student has consumed an alcoholic beverage. Failure to take a breathalyzer or BAC test will be consider an admission of guilt.
The student will be taken to a private administrative or instructional area on school property with at least one other member of the teaching or administrative staff present as a witness to the test.
The purpose of the test is to determine whether or not the student has consumed an alcoholic beverage. The amount of consumption is not relevant, except where the student may need medical attention.
CONSEQUENCES:
Possession or use of alcohol or drugs:
1st offense
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10 days OSS (may be reduced to 5 days at the discretion of the administrator if student/parent agree to enroll in and complete the Saturday Family Workshop)
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Referral to Bureau of Motor Vehicles
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Referral to police
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Loss of privileges
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Possible loss of driving/parking privilege for a quarter
2nd offense
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10 days OSS
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Recommendation for expulsion
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Referral to Bureau of Motor Vehicles
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Referral to police
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Loss of privileges
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Possible loss of driving/parking privileges
Distribution or sale of drugs, alcohol, or counterfeit drugs:
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10 day OSS
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Referral to Bureau of Motor Vehicles
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Referral to police
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Loss of privileges
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Possible loss of driving/parking privileges
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Possible recommendation of expulsion
RULE 2. Dublin City Schools is committed to a safe learning environment free from disruption. Any action that endangers the safety or well-being of individuals will not be tolerated. Disruption to School: A student shall not by use of violence, force, coercion, threat, noise, passive resistance, false alarm (including fire and bomb threats), or other disorderly conduct cause or attempt to cause material disruption or obstruction to the normal school operations. A regularly scheduled school day that is reduced in length due to a bomb threat will be made up in one-half-hour increments added to other schools days.
CONSEQUENCES:
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3-10 days out-of-school suspension
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Possible recommendation for expulsion
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Possible prosecution
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Possible loss of privileges
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Possible loss of driving/parking privileges
RULE 3. Damage to School Property: Vandalism or damage to school property is inconsistent with a fundamental Dublin City Schools principle: each student should be a good school and community citizen. A student shall not willfully or maliciously damage or attempt to damage any school property. This will include buildings, equipment, lockers, signs posted in a building and vehicles. Parents, guardians, or custodians will be held financially responsible for any property damage by their child under Ohio Revised Code 3109.09 and 2307.70.
CONSEQUENCES:
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3-10 days out-of-school suspension
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Possible recommendation for expulsion
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Restitution
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Possible prosecution
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Possible loss of privileges
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Possible loss of driving/parking privileges
RULE 4. Damage to Private Property: Damaging the property of another individual is contrary to the belief that each student should be a good school and community citizen and respect the property of others. A student shall not damage or attempt to damage private property of another. Parents, guardians, or custodians will be held financially responsible for any property damage by their child under Ohio Revised Code 3109.09 and 2307.70.
CONSEQUENCES:
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3-10 days out-of-school suspension
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Possible recommendation for expulsion
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Restitution
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Possible prosecution
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Possible loss of privileges
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Possible loss of driving/parking privileges
RULE 5. Assault or Fighting: Disputes between members of the school community should be resolved through proper and acceptable areas. A student shall not knowingly act or behave in such a way as could cause, attempt or threaten physical injury to other students, any school employee or other persons. Pushing, shoving, wrestling, etc. may also be considered fighting or assault.
CONSEQUENCES:
Against a student
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3-10 days out-of-school suspension
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Possible recommendation for expulsion
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Possible prosecution
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Possible loss of privileges
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Possible loss of driving/parking privileges
Against an employee
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10 days out-of-school suspension
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Recommend expulsion
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Possible prosecution
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Loss of privileges
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Loss of driving/parking privileges
RULE 6. Manifest Disrespect: Every member of the Dublin City Schools community is deserving of respect. Failure to demonstrate respect towards students and/or staff is considered a serious breach of the Student Code of Conduct. A student shall not demonstrate manifest disrespect toward any other individual. Actions may include verbal or nonverbal disrespect, psychological or material abuse.
CONSEQUENCES:
Against a student
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Placement on the progressive discipline ladder
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Possible loss of privileges
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Possible loss of driving/parking privileges
Against an employee
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5-10 days out-of-school suspension
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Possible recommendation for expulsion
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Loss of privileges
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Loss of driving/parking privileges
RULE 7. Dangerous Weapons & Instruments: School must be a safe learning community for all of its members. A student shall not possess, handle, transmit or conceal any weapon, dangerous instrument, explosive device, counterfeit weapon, electronic weapon, chemical/irritants or other hazardous agents, or object which a reasonable person might consider, under the circumstances, capable of harming a person or property, nor shall a student make a bomb threat against school property or a school event. (See also “Search and Seizure” and “Weapons in the School”.)
CONSEQUENCES:
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10 days out-of-school suspension
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Possible recommendation for expulsion*
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Possible referral to police, juvenile justice system, and Registrar of Motor Vehicles*
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Loss of privileges
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Loss of driving/parking privileges
*If the violation involves bringing a firearm to school, or possessing a firearm at school, it shall be mandatory to make a recommendation to the Superintendent for a 1-year expulsion. Under federal and Ohio law, it is also mandatory to make a referral to law enforcement for bringing a firearm to school.
RULE 8. Theft or Possessing Stolen Property: Students shall respect the personal ownership rights of others. Principals may exercise their prerogative of reporting thefts, attempted thefts or possession of stolen property without making an attempt to return same to local police.
CONSEQUENCES:
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Administrative discretion
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Restitution
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Possible prosecution
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Possible loss of privileges
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Possible loss of driving/parking privileges
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Possible recommendation for expulsion
RULE 9. Threatening a Person: Students shall not threaten another person. Threatening behavior consists of any words or deeds that intimidate or cause fear concerning a person’s physical well-being.
CONSEQUENCES:
Against a student
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Placement on the progressive discipline ladder
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Possible loss of privileges
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Possible loss of driving/parking privileges
Against an employee
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5-10 days out-of-school suspension
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Possible recommendation for expulsion
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Loss of privileges
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Loss of driving/parking privileges
RULE 10. Libel or Slander: No student shall commit libel or slander. Libel is defamation expressed by print, writing, pictures or signs while slander is defamation by speaking.
CONSEQUENCES:
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Administrative discretion
RULE 11. Cheating: Students are expected to exhibit honesty in all schoolwork. A student shall not engage in academic misconduct, including cheating or plagiarism. Students in violation of this policy may receive a zero for the work in question in addition to other disciplinary procedures that may be imposed.
CONSEQUENCES:
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Administrative discretion
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Possible loss of privileges
RULE 12. Felony, Misdemeanor and Violation of Ordinances: A student shall not commit any act not listed herein as a violation of the student rules of conduct that constitutes a felony, misdemeanor or violation of an ordinance.
CONSEQUENCES:
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Administrative discretion
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Possible loss of privileges
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Possible loss of driving/parking privileges
RULE 13. Repeated or Flagrant Violations of the Code: Such violations shall be dealt with by the building administration.
CONSEQUENCES:
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Administrative discretion
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Possible loss of privileges
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Possible loss of driving/parking privileges
RULE 14. Hazing: A student shall not haze (harass by exacting unnecessary or disagreeable work, ridicule or playing abusive or humiliating tricks by way of initiation) another student, a school employee or persons who are guests of the school or persons conducting business for the school or otherwise violate the anti-hazing policy.
CONSEQUENCES:
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Administrative discretion
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Possible loss of privileges
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Possible loss of driving/parking privileges
RULE 15. Use of Obscene Language, Gestures, and Inappropriate Material: Students are expected to model behavior accepted as being a good school citizen and reflective of a working environment. A student shall not use obscene or vulgar language, gestures, or possess inappropriate material.
CONSEQUENCES:
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Administrative discretion
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Possible loss of privileges
RULE 16. Truancy: Truancy is an unexcused absence from school or class for any part of the school day. Students shall abide by the attendance laws of the State of Ohio and Dublin School District’s attendance policy unless excused by the building principal.
CONSEQUENCES:
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Placement on the progressive discipline ladder up to out of school suspension
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Possible referral to juvenile courts and/or BMV
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Possible loss of privileges
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Possible loss of driving/parking privileges
RULE 17. Tardiness: Being on time to school and class is the first step to helping ensure academic success and establish good work habits needed for the future. Students shall arrive at school for each of their assigned classes at the properly scheduled time and shall not violate the attendance regulations, attendance policy, class truancy, class tardiness or tardiness to school (see page 13).
CONSEQUENCES:
Tardiness to school (per quarter)
1st offense - Warning - (attendance office)
2nd offense - Warning
3rd offense - 60 Minute Detention
4th-7th offense - Saturday/Wednesday School Assignment, Parent Notification and/or loss of privileges and driving/parking privileges for one quarter.
8th offense - 3 Day ALC assignment and/or loss of privileges and driving/parking privileges for one semester.
9th offense - 5 Day ALC assignment and/or loss of privileges and driving/parking privileges.
10th offense - Administrative Discretion
11th offense - Administrative Discretion
12th offense - Administrative Discretion
Students who accumulate more than 4 tardies during the 2nd semester will lose privileges for the first quarter of the following school year.
Tardiness to class (per semester)
1st offense - Warning - (teacher)
2nd offense - 15-Minute Teacher Detention (Parent Notification)
3rd offense - 30-Minute Teacher Detention (Parent Notification)
4th offense - 60-Minute Detention (Parent Notification)
5th offense - Saturday/Wednesday School Assignment and (Parent Notification)
RULE 18. Tobacco and Similar Substances: Smoking or possessing tobacco products does not promote healthy lifestyle or healthy community and is a violation of the Student Code of Conduct. Students shall not possess, buy, sell, distribute, smoke, burn or otherwise use any substance containing tobacco or a cigarette or cigar containing clove or any other substance, including but not limited to vapor pens and e-cigarettes.
CONSEQUENCES:
1st offense - 3 day out of school suspension (can be reduced upon successful completion of a district-sponsored tobacco education program).
- Police referral
2nd offense - 5 day out of school suspension
- Police referral
- Loss of privileges
- Loss of driving/parking privileges
3rd offense - 10 day out of school suspension
- Recommendation for expulsion
- Police referral
- Loss of privileges
- Loss of driving/parking privileges
RULE 19. Forgery and Falsification: A student shall not falsely represent or attempt to falsely represent any information given to school officials or pertinent to school activities or use the name or identity of another person.
CONSEQUENCES:
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Administrative discretion
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Possible loss of privileges
RULE 20. Conduct on Buses: A student shall not violate bus regulations.
CONSEQUENCES:
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Administrative discretion
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Possible 3-10 day bus suspension
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Possible loss of privileges
RULE 21. Public Display of Affection: A student shall not engage in inappropriate public displays of affection.
CONSEQUENCES:
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Administrative discretion
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Possible loss of privileges
RULE 22. Dress: A student shall not violate the dress code.
CONSEQUENCES:
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Administrative discretion
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Possible loss of privileges
RULE 23. Gambling: A student shall not engage in any form of gambling.
CONSEQUENCES:
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Placement on the progressive discipline ladder
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Possible loss of privileges
RULE 24. Insubordination: A student shall not be insubordinate or fail to comply with the reasonable directions of members of the school staff.
CONSEQUENCES:
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Placement on the progressive discipline ladder
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Possible loss of privileges
RULE 25. Harassment: A student shall not harass, intimidate, disparage, incite, provoke, stalk or threaten any individual on school premises or otherwise disrupt the school environment. For this purpose, harassment or intimidation includes: slurs; profanity; written information; denigrating remarks or actions; obscene gestures; the wearing or display of insignia signs buttons, clothing, or apparel; or other verbal or physical conduct including, but not limited to, those based on race, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, religion, handicap, age or sex that have the purpose or effect of (1) causing or intending to cause any other student or school employee to be reasonably placed in fear of his or her personal safety; (2) causing or intending to cause a hostile, intimidating, or offensive educational environment for any other student or school employee; (3) causing or intending to cause material disruption of the educational process; (4) unreasonably interfering with a student’s curricular, co-curricular or extracurricular performance; or (5) otherwise unreasonably having an impact on a student’s educational opportunities.
CONSEQUENCES:
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Administrative discretion
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Possible loss of privileges
RULE 26. General Misconduct: Students are expected to conduct themselves in a responsible and respectful manner at all times, indicative as being an integral part of a learning work place. The student rules of conduct shall apply to conduct not specifically set forth herein which substantially and materially disrupts or interferes with the good order, discipline, operation, academic or educational process taking place in the school.
CONSEQUENCES:
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Administrative discretion
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Possible loss of privileges
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Possible loss of driving/parking privileges
RULE 27. Violation of Education Technology Use and Safety Policy: A student shall not violate the “Student Education Technology Acceptable Use and Safety Policy.”
CONSEQUENCES:
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Administrative discretion
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Denial of access to computer network
RULE 28. Unauthorized Use of Fire/Possession of Fire Starting Device: A student shall not be in possession of matches, lighters, etc. while on school grounds.
CONSEQUENCES:
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Administrative discretion
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Possible loss of privileges
RULE 29. Loitering, Trespassing, or Unauthorized Entry: Students shall not be willfully present in a school building, locker room, restricted area of the school building or any part of the school grounds at an unauthorized time or without specific permission from a staff member. Student shall not attempt to enter a locker, classroom, closed and/or restricted area without proper authorization.
CONSEQUENCES:
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Administrative discretion
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Possible loss of privileges
RULE 30. Driving/Parking: Driving to school is a privilege, not a right. Students driving a vehicle with proper parking registration shall follow the rules and regulations established for this privilege (see page 30). A student shall not drive/park an unauthorized vehicle on school property during school hours.
CONSEQUENCES:
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Administrative discretion
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Loss of privileges
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Loss of driving/parking privileges
Loss of Privileges
As you advance through high school, you may earn certain privileges. However, you will forfeit these privileges if you do not comply with stipulated academic, attendance, and/or behavior criteria and/or violate the Student Code of Conduct. Along with other privileges, seniors who engage in conduct that endangers others, disrupts the educational process, or vandalizes the school in name of “senior pranks” will lose senior privileges including Prom, Senior Events and Graduation participation, as well as be subject to other school discipline.
Progressive Discipline Ladder
Step 1. Saturday/Wednesday School
Step 2. 3 days Alternative Learning Center
Step 3. 5 days Alternative Learning Center
Step 4. 3 days out -of-school suspension
Step 5. 5 days out-of-school suspension
Step 6. 10 days out-of-school suspension
Step 7. 10 days out-of-school suspension and recommended expulsion
In addition to the discipline ladder, students may also be subject to loss of privileges and driving/parking privileges. Failure to serve a Saturday School or ALC assignment may result in a loss of privileges and/or loss of driving/parking privileges.
Detentions
Administrative Detentions
Students may be given detention(s) by the administration for various offenses. This detention will be served as assigned, up to 60 minutes in length. The student will serve the detention at a mutually agreed upon time and location. This will enable the student to make arrangements for transportation.
Teacher Detentions
Students may be assigned detention(s) by a teacher. Each teacher is responsible for supervising his/her own detentions. The length of teacher detentions will be 15 or 30 minutes or determined by the teacher, but not to exceed 60 minutes. Teachers may assign one-hour detentions for failure to serve a teacher-assigned detention or for tardiness to class. Students will be notified in writing and be given at least twenty-four (24) hours notice to arrange for their transportation. Parents will be notified by teachers of assigned detentions either by phone or by use of the school detention form. In the event of an excused absence, the student and the teacher need to arrange a makeup date for that detention.
Saturday/Wednesday School
Students may be assigned to Saturday/Wednesday School for various violations of the student conduct code.
Saturday School is a silent study session from 8:15 to 11:45 a.m.; Wednesday School is from 3:00 to 6:30 p.m. Both are supervised by staff members.
The following guidelines are used when a student is assigned to Saturday/Wednesday School.
General
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Saturday/Wednesday School will allow students to work on school studies and improve their likelihood of success in the classroom.
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Students will not be allowed to sleep or talk during Saturday/Wednesday School.
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Saturday/Wednesday School will not be an alternative for substance misuse offenses, assaults or fighting.
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Excuses such as job responsibilities, work at home, family obligations, school activities or lack of transportation are not acceptable reasons for missing Saturday/Wednesday School.
Attendance
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Students shall attend Saturday school from 8:15 to 11:45 am; Wednesday School from 3:00 to 6:30 pm.
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Students arriving at Saturday School between 8:15 and 8:20 am shall be marked as tardy; Wednesday School between 3:00 and 3:05 pm. They shall remain in Saturday School an additional 15 minutes and be dismissed at 12 noon; Wednesday School dismissal at 6:45 pm, and be given credit for attendance.
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Students arriving at Saturday School after 8:20 am shall be marked as absent; Wednesday School after 3:05 pm. They shall be sent home and not permitted to attend Saturday/Wednesday School.
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There should be a supervised 10-minute break from 10:00 to 10:10 am in Saturday School; Wednesday School from 4:45 to 4:55 pm. Students may not leave the immediate area of the Saturday/Wednesday School room.
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All school rules are to be observed while students are on school grounds.
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Students not reporting to Saturday/Wednesday School or not fulfilling the requirements of Saturday/Wednesday School will be subject to further disciplinary actions, including a loss of privileges and/or loss of driving privileges.
Academic
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Students shall be required to do school-related work during Saturday/Wednesday School.
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Students should arrive at school with the necessary school supplies, i.e., textbooks, notebooks, pens, etc. Students will not be permitted to go to their lockers for supplies.
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When appropriate, a certificated teacher will offer assistance upon request to students having academic difficulties.
Alternative Learning Canter (ALC)
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ALC will be facilitated by a certified staff member.
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Students are to report to the designated classroom for ALC and stay for the entire school day, 7:55 a.m. to 2:42 p.m. This is subject to administrator’s discretion.
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If a student has an unexcused tardy, is truant, or has behavioral issues in ALC, the student may be subject to additional administrative action (consequences).
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Students are responsible for bringing all needed textbooks and classroom materials to ALC.
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Students are required to eat lunch in the ALC.
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Students receive credit for assigned work and attendance.
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ALC is not subject to appeal.
Dublin City Schools makes a sincere effort to have disciplinary actions take place that will allow the student to remain in school. If a disciplinary action does not result in removal from school, it is not appealable.
Out of School Suspension and Appeal of Out of School Suspension
Out-of-School Suspension
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The Superintendent, Principal or Assistant Principal may suspend a student for not more than ten (10) school days. The Superintendent, Principal or Assistant Principal shall give the student written notice of the intent to suspend and the reasons for the intended suspension.
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The student shall have an opportunity to appear in an informal hearing before the Principal, Assistant Principal or Superintendent or designee and shall have the right to challenge the reasons for the intended suspension or otherwise explain his/her actions. This hearing may take place immediately.
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Within one (1) school day of the suspension, the parent, guardian or custodian (hereafter referred to as “Parent”) of the student and the Treasurer of the Board will be notified in writing of the suspension by the Superintendent or Principal. The notice shall include the reasons for the suspension, the right of the parent or student to appeal the suspension to the Board of Education or its designee and the right to be represented by legal counsel at the appeal. A parent conference may be arranged to discuss the action being taken by the school.
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Suspended students cannot participate in or attend any school-related activities during the period of suspension.
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Students who are suspended are eligible to earn credit for daily work missed as a result of an out-of school suspension. The work must be completed on the day the student returns to school or on the assigned date determined by the classroom teacher.
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Students who are suspended are eligible to make up nine-week tests, semester tests, and final exams and receive his/her earned grade on the test. All students who are suspended have access to class assignments during their out-of-school-suspension.
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Out-of School Suspension may also result in a loss of privileges and also a loss of driving privileges.
Appeal of Out-of-School Suspension
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Suspensions may be appealed to the Board or Board’s designee within ten (10) calendar days of the parent/guardian’s receipt of the written suspension notice. The written appeal must state the reasons why the suspension is being appealed.
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Upon review, the Board or Board’s designee may uphold the suspension, establish an alternative suspension of lesser severity, or reverse the suspension in its entirety.
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The Board or Board’s designee shall reach the decision and provide written notice to the parent/guardian within five (5) school days following the hearing.
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The Board or Board’s designee shall make or cause to be made a verbatim record of appeal hearings. The record shall not be reduced to writing except at the request, cost, and arrangement of the party requesting the written record.
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A student shall remain suspended for the duration of the suspension unless and until action modifying the suspension is taken on appeal.
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The decision of the Board or Board’s designee may be appealed to the Court of Common Pleas as authorized by Ohio law.
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Any cross-examination or questioning at the hearing is at the discretion of the Board or Board’s designee. If the student, parent/guardian, or their representative fails to follow hearing procedures established by Board policy and regulation, the hearing may be terminated and the Board or Board’s designee may proceed with a decision in the matter.
Expulsion and Appeal of Expulsion
Expulsion
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Only the Superintendent may expel a student. Expulsion is the removal of a student for more than ten (10) days duration, but not to exceed eighty (80) school days except for firearm, weapon, knife or destruction device, which may result in a one-year expulsion or permanent exclusion.
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The Superintendent will give the student and parent written notice of the intended expulsion, including reasons for the intended expulsion. The notice shall also state that the student and parent or representative shall have the opportunity to appear in person before the Superintendent or designee to challenge the reasons for the intended expulsion or to otherwise explain the student’s actions. The notice shall further state the time and place to appear, which must not be less than three (3) days or later than five (5) days after the notice is given, unless the Superintendent grants an extension of time at the request of the pupil or his parent.
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Within one (1) school day of the expulsion, the Superintendent will notify the parent and the Treasurer of the Board of Education of the expulsion in writing. This notice shall include the reasons for the expulsion, the rights of the student or parent to appeal the Superintendent’s decision to the Dublin Board of Education or its designee and the right to be represented by legal counsel at the appeal.
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Students who have been expelled from the Dublin City Schools are withdrawn from school. Therefore, a student may not earn credits for the specified period of expulsion. Once the student has completed serving their expulsion, they must re-enroll in the Dublin City Schools.
Appeal of Expulsion
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The decision of the Superintendent may be appealed to the Board of Education’s designee. Requests for such appeal shall be made to the Board of Education’s designee within fourteen (14) days after the first day of the expulsion.
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The student or parent/guardian shall have the right to be represented in all appeal proceedings and shall be granted a hearing before the Board’s designee, in order to be heard with regard to the expulsion.
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The Board’s designee shall make or cause to be made a verbatim record of the appeal hearing. The record shall not be reduced to writing except at the request, cost and arrangement of the party requesting the written record.
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The student shall remain expelled for the duration of the expulsion unless or until action modifying the expulsion is taken on appeal.
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The Board’s designee may affirm the order of expulsion or may reinstate such pupil or otherwise reverse, vacate or modify the order of expulsion.
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The decision of the Board of Education’s designee may be appealed to the Court of Common Pleas in accord with Chapter 2506, Ohio Revised Code.
Emergency Removal of Students
If a student’s presence poses a continuous danger to persons or property or an ongoing threat of disrupting the academic process, then the Superintendent, Principal or Assistant Principal may remove the student from curricular or extracurricular activities or from the school premises.
A teacher may remove the student from curricular or extracurricular activities under his/her supervision. If a teacher makes an emergency removal, reasons will be submitted to the Principal, in writing, as soon after the removal as is practicable.
In all cases of normal disciplinary procedures where a student is removed from a curricular or extracurricular activity for a period of less than twenty-four (24) hours and is not subject to suspension or expulsion, the requirements of notice and a hearing do not apply.
If the emergency removal exceeds twenty-four (24) hours, then a due process hearing shall be held. Written notice of the hearing and the reason for removal in any intended disciplinary action of suspension or expulsion shall be given to the student as soon as is practicable prior to the hearing. The hearing shall be held in accordance with suspension or expulsion provisions, whichever is applicable, except that the hearing shall be held within seventy-two (72) hours after the removal is ordered.
The person who ordered or requested the removal will be present at the hearing. If the Superintendent or Principal reinstates a student to the hearing for emergency removal, the teacher shall, upon request, be given the reasons for the reinstatement in writing. A teacher cannot refuse reinstatement of a student.
Under the condition of an emergency removal, a student can be restricted from attending class until the matter of the student’s misconduct is disposed of either by reinstatement, suspension, expulsion or other disciplinary action.
In cases where it is alleged that federal, state or local laws have been violated, the Principal will, to the extent permitted by law, refer the matter to the proper authorities in addition to imposing school disciplinary measures.
Professional staff members and support staff determined appropriate by the Superintendent are permitted to physically restrain and/or seclude a student, but only when there is immediate risk of physical harm to the student and/or others, there is no other safe and effective intervention possible, and the physical restraint or seclusion is used in a manner that is age and developmentally appropriate and protects the safety of all children and adults at school. All restraint and seclusion shall only be done in accordance with Board Policy, which is based on the standards adopted by the State Board of Education regarding the use of student restraint and seclusion.
Permanent Exclusion
When a student, 16 years of age or older, is being considered for permanent exclusion, it is possible that s/he may never be permitted to return to school anywhere in the State of Ohio. A permanent exclusion may be considered if the student is a convicted or adjudicated delinquent for committing one or more of the following crimes while on the property of any Ohio school:
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any possession or involvement with a deadly weapon or dangerous ordnance
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drug traffic
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murder, manslaughter, assault or aggravated assault
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certain sexual offenses
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complicity in any of the above crimes
This process is formal and will usually follow an expulsion and the proper notification of the parents.
Discipline of Students with Disabilities
Discipline Alternative Program Options
Personal Property
Memorandum to Parents Regarding School Board Policy on Drug-Free Schools
In accordance with Federal Law, the Board of Education prohibits the use, possession, concealment or distribution of drugs by students on school grounds, in school or school-approved vehicles, or at any school-related event. Drugs include any alcoholic beverage, anabolic steroid, dangerous controlled substance as defined by State statute, or substance that could be considered a “look-alike” controlled substance. Compliance with this policy is mandatory for all students. Any student who violates this policy will be subject to disciplinary action, in accordance with due process and as specified in the student handbooks, up to and including expulsion from school. When required by State law, the district will also notify law enforcement officials.
The district is concerned about any student who is a victim of alcohol or drug misuse and will facilitate the process by which she/he receives help through programs and services available in the community. Students and their parents should contact the school principal or counseling office whenever such help is needed.
Counterfeit Controlled Substances
Experience has shown that the “look-alike” drug is often more dangerous than the substance which the student believes he/she is buying. Ohio administrators have reported that trafficking in these fake drugs represents a substantial portion of the illicit drug market in any school. Since students who engage in this type of transaction often are also dealers of a wide spectrum of controlled substances, laws have been passed which provide administrative personnel with an added weapon which can be brought to bear against the drug trade as a whole, and its serious attendant antisocial, illegal and disciplinary problems.
Specifically, “counterfeit controlled substances” are defined in Ohio Revised Code Section 2925.01 (P) to mean any of the following:
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Any drug that bears, or whose container or label bears, trademark, trade name or other identifying mark used without authorization of the owner of rights to such trademark, trade name or identifying mark;
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Any unmarked or unlabeled substance that is represented to be a controlled substance manufactured, processed, packed or distributed by a person other than the person that manufactured, processed, packed or distributed it;
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Any substance that is represented to be a controlled substance but is not a controlled substance or is a different controlled substance;
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Any substance other than a controlled substance that a reasonable person would believe to be a controlled substance because of its similarity in shape, size and color or its markings, labeling, packaging, distribution or the price for which it is sold or offered for sale.
By making the definition of “counterfeit controlled substance” so broad, the legislature has done away with technical drug-analysis evidentiary requirements that have traditionally made successful drug prosecution elusive and have also frustrated school discipline related to possession or sale of drug-related items.
For example, if a student possesses or sells oregano, which he claims to be marijuana, a tablet which he untruthfully claims contains LSD or a harmless pill which bears fake manufacturer’s markings so as to falsely indicate that it is a controlled substance, the new “look-alike” statutes make his activity a violation of criminal drug laws. Even the sale of a crude tobacco cigarette, while claiming it contains marijuana, is now criminal.
After defining “counterfeit controlled substances” the law provides, in new Section 2925.37 of the Ohio Revised Code, that:
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No person shall knowingly possess any counterfeit controlled substance.
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No person shall knowingly make, sell, offer to sell or deliver any substance that he knows is a counterfeit controlled substance.
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No person shall make, possess, sell, offer to sell or deliver any punch, die, plate, stone or other device knowing or having reason to know that it will be used to print or reproduce a trademark, trade names or other identifying mark upon a counterfeit controlled substance.
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No person shall sell, attempt to sell, give or deliver any counterfeit controlled substance to a person under the age of eighteen.
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No person shall directly or indirectly represent a counterfeit controlled substance as a controlled substance by describing its effects as the physical or psychological effects associated with use of a controlled substance.
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No person shall directly or indirectly falsely represent or advertise a counterfeit controlled substance as a controlled substance. As used in this section, “advertise” means engaging in “advertising” as that term is defined in division (A)(12) of Section 3715.01 of the Ohio Revised Code.
Violation of the above paragraphs could result in fines and/or a term of imprisonment. It should be clear that the purpose of the Ohio law was to restrict as wide a range of drug-related activity as possible, without requiring technical proof that actual illegal substances are involved. The new law is geared to the regulation of antisocial conduct, not mere possession of real drugs and lends itself to incorporation into the student conduct code. The drug culture and its constant strain on health, safety and discipline appear to be as much a target of the law as the illegal drugs themselves.
Use of Tobacco on School Property (Property 7434)
[Please check the website, www.dublinschools.net, for any possible revisions to this policy made during the school year.]
The Board of Education is committed to providing students, staff, and visitors with a tobacco and smoke-free environment. The negative health effects of tobacco use for both users and nonusers, particularly in connection with second-hand smoke, are well established. Further, providing a non-smoking and tobacco-free environment is consistent with the responsibilities of teachers and staff to be positive role models for our students.
For purposes of this policy, "use of tobacco" means to chew or maintain any substance containing tobacco, including smokeless tobacco, in the mouth to derive the effects of tobacco, as well as all uses of tobacco or tobacco substitutes, including cigars, cigarettes, pipe tobacco, chewing tobacco, snuff, any other matter or substances that contain tobacco, in addition to papers used to roll cigarettes and/or smoking of electronic, "vapor," or other substitute forms of cigarettes, clove cigarettes, and any other lighted smoking devices for burning tobacco or any other substance.
The term “tobacco” includes any product that contains tobacco, is derived from tobacco, contains nicotine, or e-cigarettes and other electronic smoking devices (including but not limited to "JUULs"), but does not include any cessation product approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for use as a medical treatment to reduce or eliminate nicotine or tobacco dependence.
In order to protect students and staff who choose not to smoke or use tobacco from an environment noxious to them, and because the Board does not condone smoking and/or the use of tobacco, the Board prohibits the use of tobacco or tobacco substitute products at all times (twenty-four (24) hours a day, seven (7) days a week) within any enclosed facility owned or leased or contracted for by the Board, and in areas directly or indirectly under the control of the Board immediately adjacent to locations of ingress or egress to such facilities. This prohibition extends to any Board-owned and/or operated vehicles used to transport students and to all other Board-owned and/or operated vehicles. Such prohibition also applies to school grounds, athletic facilities, and any school-related event.
The Superintendent shall require the posting of signs as required by R.C. 3794.06 and as specified by the Ohio Department of Health.
Advertising/Promotion
In accordance with Policy 9700.01, tobacco advertising is prohibited on school grounds, in all school-sponsored publications, and at all school-sponsored events.
Tobacco promotional items that promote the use of tobacco products, including clothing, bags, lighters, and other personal articles are not permitted on school grounds, in school vehicles, or at school-sponsored events.
Violations of this policy may result in removal from school property or the school activity in accordance with Policy 9150 – School Visitors.
(End of Policy 7434)
Care of Property
The Board of Education believes that the schools should help students learn to respect property and develop feelings of pride in community institutions.
The Board charges each student with responsibility for the proper care of school property and the school supplies and equipment entrusted to his/her use.
Students who cause damage to school property shall be subject to disciplinary measures, and their parents shall be financially liable for such damage to the extent of the law, except that students over eighteen (18) years of age shall also be liable for damage they cause.
The Board authorizes the imposition of fines for the loss, damage or destruction of school equipment, apparatus, musical instruments, library material, textbooks, and for damage to school buildings.
The Board may report to the appropriate juvenile authorities any student whose damage of school property has been serious or chronic in nature.
A reward may be offered by the Board for the apprehension of any person who vandalizes school property.
The Board will assume no responsibility for any personal property that students bring on to District premises.
Public Display of Affection
Public displays of affection are unacceptable and create a very negative reaction among students, staff and guests. Unacceptable public displays of affection are defined as those physical actions, which are contrary to good judgment and public decency in that they create the feeling of inappropriateness and embarrassment among students, staff and guests.
Students who engage in such inappropriate and/or unacceptable public displays of affection will be subject to the intervention of staff, and the student will be subject to disciplinary action.
Gambling
No form of gambling is permitted in school. Gambling paraphernalia is not to be brought to school. Playing cards and dice are considered to be gambling paraphernalia. A student possessing gambling paraphernalia on school property will have those items confiscated and will be referred for disciplinary action.
School Decorum
The administration and faculty expects that all students will exhibit proper behavior and common courtesy. This is expected before, during and after school hours. As required by Ohio Revised Code 3313.661, the Dublin Board of Education has adopted the student rules of conduct, which outline those behaviors considered unacceptable and for which a student may be suspended, expelled or removed.
In addition, the laws of the State of Ohio outline the due process procedures, which must be followed in disciplinary matters. Please read and understand the following information. A copy of the Code shall be posted in a central location in each school and made available to students on request.
Dress Code
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Goals
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Maintain a safe learning environment
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Allow students to wear clothing of their choice that is safe and comfortable
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Allow students to wear clothing that expresses their self-identified gender.
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Allow students to wear religious attire without fear of discipline or discrimination.
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Prevent students from wearing clothing with images or language depicting or advocating violence or the use of alcohol or drugs.
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Ensure that students are treated equitably regardless of gender/gender identification, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, body type/size, religion, and personal style.
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Dress Code Responsibilities
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The primary responsibility for a student’s attire adhering to the school dress code resides with the student and parents or guardians.
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The school district and individual schools are responsible for seeing that student attire does not interfere with the health or safety of any student and that student attire does not contribute to a hostile or intimidating atmosphere for any student.
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Dress Code Policy
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Students Must Wear
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Shirt
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Bottom: pants / sweatpants / shorts / skirt / dress / leggings
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Shoes (activity-specific shoes are permitted...for example sports and P.E.)
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Examples of items Students May Wear
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Religious Headwear
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Hoodie Sweatshirts (with hoods down)
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Fitted pants, including leggings, yoga pants, and “skinny jeans”
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Ripped jeans as long as underwear is not exposed
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Tank Tops (sleeveless blouses are OK, spaghetti straps are not)
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Shorts (length and fit should be appropriate for school)
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Athletic attire
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Items Students Cannot Wear
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Violent language or images
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Images depicting drug alcohol (or any illegal item or activity) or use of the same
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Hate speech, profanity, or sexually explicit images
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Images or language that creates a hostile or intimidating environment based on any protected class.
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Visible Underwear (Visible waistbands or straps on undergarments worn under are not a violation)
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Headgear of any kind that obscures the face, this includes scarves, bandannas, etc.. (except as a religious observance)
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Sunglasses indoors
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Dress Code Enforcement
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Enforcement should be consistent with a school’s overall discipline plan. (Rule 22)
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Violations should be treated as minor on the continuum of school rule violations.
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Best practice would indicate that students do not miss academic instruction for violations that solely have to do with the dress code.
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Best practice would indicate that students are given “school clothing” as a last resort. When possible students should be allowed to use their own jackets, extra clothing, etc.. to resolve dress code issues or call parents to bring in appropriate clothing.
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No student population should be disproportionately affected by dress code enforcement because of gender, race, body size, or body maturity
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These guidelines are not to be considered all-inclusive. Administration reserves the right to deal with any apparel determined to be inappropriate.
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***Acknowledgement is given to the Oregon NOW Model School Dress Code creators for inspiring language used in the Dublin City School Middle School Student Handbook.
Loitering, Trespassing, and Unauthorized Entry
Loitering
Loitering is defined as the willful presence in a school building, locker room, restricted area of the school building or school grounds at an unauthorized time, including lunchtime. This also includes the excessive presence of a student in a rest room during the lunch period or class period for the purposes other than the expected use of the rest room. Examples of loitering in the rest room are: more than one person in a stall at the same time, not using the facilities, talking or waiting for a friend beyond a reasonable time, sitting on the floor and sinks and any other inappropriate behavior that is not considered to be acceptable for rest room use. Students behaving in this manner will be disciplined according to the consequences given for the rule being violated.
Trespassing
A student shall not attempt to enter a locker, classroom, closed and/or restricted area without proper authorization. Students behaving in this manner will be disciplined according to the consequences given for the rule being violated.
Unauthorized Entry
A student shall not enter a school building or other Board-owned facility that has been locked and secured from student and public use without administrative or staff approval. Students behaving in this manner will be disciplined according to the consequences given for the rule being violated.
The school is here for the benefit of the students. The staff is here to assist a student in becoming a responsible adult. If a student has a concern or suggestion that could improve the school, she/he should feel free to offer them. Written suggestions may be presented directly to the principal or to the student government.
Anti-Hazing Policy
It is the policy of the Dublin Board of Education and school district that hazing activities of any type are inconsistent with the educational process and shall be prohibited at all times. No administrator, faculty member or other employee of the school district shall encourage, permit, condone or tolerate any hazing activities. No student, including leaders of student organizations, shall plan, encourage or engage in any hazing.
“Hazing” is defined as doing any act or coercing of another, including the victim, to do any act of initiation into any student or other organization that causes or creates a substantial risk of causing mental or physical harm to any person. It is harassment by exacting unnecessary or disagreeable work, ridicule or playing abusive or humiliating tricks by way of initiation. Permission, consent or assumption of risk by an individual subjected to hazing does not lessen the prohibition contained in this policy.
Administrators, faculty members and all other employees of the school district shall be particularly alert to possible situations, circumstances or events, which might include hazing. If hazing or planned hazing is discovered, involved students shall be informed by the discovering school employee of the prohibition contained in this policy and shall be required to end all hazing activities immediately. All hazing incidents shall be reported immediately to the Superintendent.
Student Rules of Conduct First Warning
Your possession of these rules constitutes a first warning. No further warnings will be given to you. It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with these rules and the consequences of violating them. The rules herein apply to all students when on all school premises, at all school-sponsored activities and when aboard a school bus or other Board-owned vehicle. The application of the policies in this handbook applies to activities at all three high schools.
Weapons in School
The Board of Education prohibits students from bringing to school, possessing, storing, making, or using a weapon, including a concealed weapon, in any school safety zone and setting that is under the control and supervision of the Board for the purpose of school activities approved and authorized by the Board including, but not limited to, property leased, owned, or contracted for by the Board, a school-sponsored event, or in a Board-owned vehicle. The Board also prohibits the making of a bomb threat against any school property or school event.
The term “weapon’ means any object which, in the manner in which it is used, is intended to be used, or is represented, is capable of inflicting serious bodily harm or property damage, as well as endangering the health and safety of persons. Weapons include, but are not limited to, firearms or air and gas-powered guns (whether loaded or unloaded), knives, razors, clubs, electric weapons (taser and/or stun gun), metallic knuckles, martial arts weapons, ammunitions, chemical irritants and other hazardous agents, explosives or any object indistinguishable from the above or that is held forth as a weapon. “Bomb threat” means to make a false report or indication of the presence of an explosive, incendiary, or other device capable of causing property destruction or human injury.
Policy exceptions include:
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weapons under the control of law enforcement or school security personnel, or under the control of others in strictly controlled cases specifically authorized in writing by the Board;
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items pre-approved by school administrators as part of a class or individual presentation under adult supervision, if used for the purpose and in the manner approved, in appropriate settings or relevant sporting events. This exception does not apply to working firearms, ammunition or ordinance. It does apply to items indistinguishable from weapons, such as starter pistols, theatrical props and some sport equipment.
Before bringing any item to school or to an event that might violate this policy, students are strongly encouraged to ask a school administrator to rule on whether or not the item is covered by this policy. Therefore, any item brought or possessed that was not cleared with administration may be judged under this policy under a broad definition of ”weapon”, based on the administration’s commitment to student and staff safety. Students shall report any information concerning weapons and/or threats of violence by students, staff members, or visitors to the building principal. Failure to report such information may subject the student to disciplinary action. This policy shall be implemented through the Code of Conduct/Student Discipline Code, Policy 5610, and Policy 5610.01, and through administrative guidelines.
The Superintendent will refer any student who violates this policy to the student’s parents or guardians and may refer the student to the criminal justice or juvenile delinquency system. The student may also be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion. In the case of a violation involving firearms brought to or possessed in school, federal and Ohio law makes a referral for 1-year expulsion mandatory. Also, under federal law, bringing a firearm to school makes referral to law enforcement mandatory.
Visitors' Weapons Policy
The Board of Education will not tolerate any unlawful possession of weapons or any other device designed to inflict serious bodily harm by any visitor while on district property, at a school-sponsored event, or on a school vehicle. Violators may be charged with a felony.
The Superintendent shall ensure that any visitor unlawfully possessing a weapon or other device designed to inflict serious bodily harm is reported immediately to the appropriate law enforcement agency.
A weapon may be brought on district property for educational purposes under controlled circumstances when authorized by the Superintendent.
Harassment Regulations/Students
Definition: Harassment includes conduct which has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating, hostile, discriminating, or offensive learning environment on the basis of gender religion, race, color, national origin or ancestry, age, and/or disability, marital status, and/or other legally protected characteristic.
The Board of Education recognizes that a student has the right to work in an environment untainted by sexual or other forms of harassment or discrimination. Offensive conduct which has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with learning performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, discriminatory, or offensive educational environment disrupts the educational process and impedes the legitimate pedagogical concerns of the district. Sexual and other forms of harassment will not be tolerated.
Sexual harassment includes all unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and verbal or physical contacts of a sexual nature. Other prohibited harassment includes conduct that has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating, hostile, discriminatory, or offensive learning environment on the basis of gender, religion, race, color, national origin of ancestry, age, disability, marital status and/or other legally protected characteristic.
The harassment by a student of a staff member, fellow student of this district or third party (e.g. visiting speaker, athletic team member, volunteer parent, etc.) is strictly forbidden. Anyone who is found to have caused harassment will be subject to discipline in accordance with law and the Code of Conduct.
Some forms of harassment may be considered a form of child abuse, which would require that the abuser be reported to proper authorities in compliance with State law. The Superintendent shall establish administrative guidelines, which address the conduct prohibited by this policy and describe a reporting procedure. The Superintendent shall ensure that explanations of the prohibited conduct and reporting procedures are available to all students and are posted in appropriate places throughout the district.
Any student who believes that she/he is the victim of any of the above actions or has observed such actions taken by another student, staff member, or other person associated with the district should make contact with one of two or three persons selected by each building principal with whom the students would most likely be comfortable in discussing a matter of this kind.
The student may make contact either by a written report (Form 5517 F2) or by telephone or personal visit. During this contact, the reporting student should provide the name of the person(s) whom she/he believes to be responsible for the harassment and the nature of the harassing incident(s). A written summary of each such report is to be prepared promptly on Form 5517 F1 and a copy forwarded to the District Title IX Hearing Officer.
Each report received by a designated person shall be investigated in a timely and confidential manner. While a charge is under investigation, no information is to be released to anyone who is not involved with the investigation, except as may be required by law or in the context of a legal or administrative proceeding. No one involved is to discuss the subject outside of the investigation.
The purpose of this provision is to:
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protect the confidentiality of the student who files a complaint;
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encourage the reporting of any incidents of sexual or other forms of harassment;
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protect the reputation of any party wrongfully charged with harassment.
Definition of Harassment
Definition: Harassment includes conduct which has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating, hostile, discriminating, or offensive learning environment on the basis of gender religion, race, color, national origin or ancestry, age, and/or disability, marital status, and/or other legally protected characteristic.
The Board of Education recognizes that a student has the right to work in an environment untainted by sexual or other forms of harassment or discrimination. Offensive conduct which has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with learning performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, discriminatory, or offensive educational environment disrupts the educational process and impedes the legitimate pedagogical concerns of the district. Sexual and other forms of harassment will not be tolerated.
Sexual harassment includes all unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and verbal or physical contacts of a sexual nature. Other prohibited harassment includes conduct that has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating, hostile, discriminatory, or offensive learning environment on the basis of gender, religion, race, color, national origin of ancestry, age, disability, marital status and/or other legally protected characteristic.
The harassment by a student of a staff member, fellow student of this district or third party (e.g. visiting speaker, athletic team member, volunteer parent, etc.) is strictly forbidden. Anyone who is found to have caused harassment will be subject to discipline in accordance with law and the Code of Conduct.
The Superintendent shall establish administrative guidelines, which address the conduct prohibited by this policy, and describe a reporting procedure.
The Superintendent shall ensure that explanations of the prohibited conduct and reporting procedures are available to all students and are posted in appropriate places throughout the district.
Any student who believes that she/he is the victim of any of the above actions or has observed such actions taken by another student, staff member, or other person associated with the district should make contact with one of two or three persons selected by each building principal with whom the students would most likely be comfortable in discussing a matter of this kind.
The student may make contact either by a written report (Form 5517 F2) or by telephone or personal visit. During this contact, the reporting student should provide the name of the person(s) whom she/he believes to be responsible for the harassment and the nature of the harassing incident(s). A written summary of each such report is to be prepared promptly on Form 5517 F1 and a copy forwarded to the District Title IX Hearing Officer.
Each report received by a designated person shall be investigated in a timely and confidential manner. While a charge is under investigation, no information is to be released to anyone who is not involved with the investigation, except as may be required by law or in the context of a legal or administrative proceeding. No one involved is to discuss the subject outside of the investigation.
The purpose of this provision is to:
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protect the confidentiality of the student who files a complaint;
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encourage the reporting of any incidents of sexual or other forms of harassment;
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protect the reputation of any party wrongfully charged with harassment.
Search and Seizure, Lockers, desk, and Other School Property, Automobile Searches on School Property, and Student Person and Student Personal Property
Search and Seizure
As “persons” under the Constitution of the United States, students are protected from unreasonable search and seizure by state, federal or school officials. At the same time, however, school officials have the duty to maintain a safe environment in which education is possible.
The Dublin City School District, as part of its overall safety and security program, may from time to time during the school year request law enforcement agencies to assist the district in detecting the presence of illegal drugs and/or weapons in our school. The district and/or law enforcement agencies officials are authorized by the Board of Education to use dogs trained in detecting the presence of drugs or weapons to patrol school facilities and premises.
Such patrols may be random in nature. Any time a dog alerts to a particular vehicle, locker, or other container it will be considered to create reasonable suspicion to search the vehicle, locker, or other container in accordance with established procedures. Dogs will not be used to search human beings.
Lockers, desks and other school property
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Lockers and other closed areas in which students keep personal items are school property. As school property, they are subject to search at any time by the Principal, Assistant Principal or Principal’s designee.
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Except in extreme circumstances, the students using the lockers or other closed areas shall be informed and be present during the search.
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School officials may also request students to clear all lockers or a section of lockers. Students shall be informed in advance when lockers are to be cleared.
Automobile searches on school property
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Students have been granted the revocable privileges of using school property for parking vehicles. Parking on school property will be considered consent to search of the vehicles by the Principal, Assistant Principal or Principal’s designee. Whether or not a search is reasonable in the context of constitutional rights depends on the circumstances.
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Except in extreme circumstances, the students in control of the vehicles shall be informed and shall be present during the search.
Student person and student personal property
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If reasonable cause for the search exists, the Principal, Assistant Principal or Principal’s designee may search personal effects of students and students’ person, except for strip searches, pursuant to their duty outlined above.
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If probable cause for the search exists, surrounding circumstances stronger than those establishing reasonable cause, the Principal, Assistant Principal or Principal’s designee may conduct strip searches of students. A strip search should be conducted in the presence of at least one of the parents or custodians of each student searched and must be conducted in the presence of witnesses. The student being searched shall have the right to be accompanied by the teacher/counselor of his/her choice if the teacher/counselor agrees to do so.
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The Board of Education preserves its right to adopt rules, pursuant to their duty outlined above, for administration of tests to students reasonably suspected of having consumed alcoholic beverages. If an administrator has determined that a student may be under the influence of alcoholic beverages, this student may request a test to exonerate himself/herself.
Bullying and Other Forms of Aggressive Behavior (AG 5517.01)
[Please check the website, www.dublinschools.net, for any possible revisions to this administrative guideline made during the school year.]
Definitions of Terms:
"Harassment, Intimidation, or Bullying" means any intentional written, verbal, graphic, electronic, or physical act that a student or group of students exhibited toward another particular student more than once and the behavior both:
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causes mental or physical harm to the other students; and
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is sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating, threatening, or abusive educational enviorment for the other student.
"Harassment, Intimidating, or Bullying" also means cyberbullying through electronically transmitted acts i.e., Internet, cell phone, personal digital assistance (PDA), or wireless hand-held device that a student has exhibited toward another particular student more than once and the behavior both:
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causes mental or physical harm to the other student/school personnel; and
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is usfficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating, threatening, or abusive educational enviornment for the other student.
"Harassment, Intimidating, or Bullying" also includes violence within a dating relationship.
In evaluating whether conduct constitutes harassment, intimidation, or bullying, special attention should be paid to the words chosen or the actions taken, whether such conduct occurred in front of others or was communicated to others, how the perpetrator interacted with the victim, and the motivation, either admitted or appropriately inferred.
A school-sponsored activity shall mean any activity conducted on or off school property (including school buses and other school-related vehicles) that is sponsored, recognized, or authorized by the Board of Education.
"Electronic act" means an act committed through the use of a cellular telephone, computer, pager, personal communication device, or other electronic communication device.
Types of Conduct
Harassment, intimidation, or bullying can include many different behaviors including overt intent to ridicule, humiliate, or intimidate another student. Examples of conduct that could constitute prohibited behaviors include:
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physical violence and/or attacks;
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threats, taunts, and intimidation through words and/or gestures;
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extortion, damage, or stealing of money and/or possessions
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exclusion from the peer group or spreading rumors;
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repetitive and hostile with the intent to harm others through the use of information and communication technologies and other web-based/on-line sites (also known as “cyber-bullying”), such as following:
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posting slurs on web sited where students congregate or on web logs (personal on-line journals or diaries)
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sending abusive or threatening instant messages;
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using camera phones to take embarrassing photographs of students and posting them on-line/or otherwise distributing them;
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using web sited to circulate gossip and rumores to other students; and,
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excluding others from an on-line group by falsely reporting them for inappropriate language to Internet Service Providers
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violence within a dating relationship
The following procedures shall be used for reporting, investigating, and resolving complaints of aggressive behavior and/or bullying.
Complaint Procedures
Building principals, assistant principals, and the Superintendent have the responsibility for conducting investigations concerning claims of aggressive behavior and/or bullying. The investigator(s) shall be a neutral party having had no involvement in the complaint presented.
Any student, employee or third party who has knowledge of conduct in violation of Policy 5517.01 or feels s/he has been a victim of aggressive behavior and/or bullying in violation of Policy 5517.01 is encouraged to immediately report his/her concerns.
Teachers and other school staff, who witness acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying, as defined above, shall promptly notify the building principal and/or his/her designee of the event observed, and shall promptly file a written incident report concerning the events witnessed. Teachers and other school staff who receive student or parent reports of suspected harassment, intimidation, and bullying shall promptly notify the building principal and/or his/her designee of such report(s). If the report is a formal, written complaint, such complaint shall be forwarded promptly (no later than the next school day) to the building principal or his/her designee. If the report is an informal complaint by a student that is received by a teacher or other professional employee, s/he shall prepare a written report of the informal complaint which shall be promptly forwarded (no later than the next school day) to the building principal or his/her designee.
In addition to addressing both informal and formal complaints, school personnel are encouraged to address the issue of harassment, intimidation, or bullying in other interactions with students. School personnel may find opportunities to educate students about harassment, intimidation, and bullying and help eliminate such prohibited behaviors through class discussions, counseling, and reinforcement of socially appropriate behavior. School personnel should intervene promptly whenever they observe student conduct that has the purpose or effect of ridiculing, humiliating, or intimidating another student even if such conduct does not meet the formal definition of "harassment, intimidation, or bullying."
All complaints will be promptly investigated in accordance with the following procedures:
Step I Any complaints, allegations, or rumors of aggressive behavior and/or bullying shall be presented to the building principal or assistant principal or the Superintendent. Students may also report their concerns to teachers or counselors who will be responsible for notifying the appropriate administrator or Board of Education official. Complaints against the building principal shall be filed with the Superintendent. Complaints against the Superintendent shall be filed with the Board President. Information may be initially presented anonymously. All such information will be reduced to writing and should include the specific nature of the offense (e.g., the person(s) involved, number of times and places of the alleged conduct, the target of the suspected aggressive behavior and/or bullying, and the names of any potential witnesses). If the person filing the formal complaint is an adult, s/he must sign the charge affirming its veracity. If the person filing the formal complaint is a minor, s/he may either sign the charge or affirm its veracity before two (2) administrators.
Step II The administrator/Board official receiving the complaint shall promptly investigate. Parents will be notified of the nature of any complaint involving their student. The administrator/Board official will arrange such meetings as may be necessary with all concerned parties within five (5) work days after receipt of the information or complaint. The parties will have an opportunity to submit evidence and a list of witnesses. All findings related to the complaint will be reduced to writing. The administrator/Board official conducting the investigation shall notify the complainant and parents as appropriate when the investigation is concluded and a decision regarding disciplinary action, as warranted, is determined
A copy of the notification letter or the date and details of notification to the complainant, together with any other documentation related to the incident, including disciplinary action taken or recommended, shall be forwarded to the Superintendent.
Step III If the complainant is not satisfied with the decision at Step II, s/he may submit a written appeal to the Superintendent or designee. Such appeal must be filed within ten (10) work days after receipt of the Step II decision. The Superintendent or designee will arrange such meetings with the complainant and other affected parties as deemed necessary to review and discuss the appeal. The Superintendent or designee shall provide a written decision to the complainant’s appeal within ten (10) work days of the appeal being filed.
If the complainant is not satisfied with the decision at Step III, a written appeal may be filed with the Board. Such appeal must be filed within ten (10) work days after receipt of the Step III decision. The Board shall, within twenty (20) work days, conduct a hearing at which time the complainant shall be given an opportunity to present the complaint. The Board shall provide a written decision to the complainant within ten (10) work days following completion of the hearing.
Documentation related to the incident, other than any discipline imposed or remedial action taken, will be maintained in a file separate from the student’s education records or the employee’s personnel file.
Publication of the Prohibition Against Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying
At least once each year, a written statement describing the policy and the consequences for violations of the policy shall be sent to each student’s custodial parent/guardian. The prohibition against harassment, intimidation, or bullying shall be publicized in student handbooks and in District publications that set forth comprehensive rules, procedures and standards of conduct for students. Information regarding the policy shall be incorporated into employee training materials. The following statement shall be included:
Harassment, intimidation, or bullying behavior by any student in the Dublin City School District is strictly prohibited, and such conduct may result in disciplinary action, including suspension and/or expulsion from school. "Harassment, intimidation, or bullying", in accordance with R.C. 3313.666 means any intentional written, verbal, graphic or physical act including electronically transmitted acts i.e., Internet, cell phone, personal digital assistant (PDA), or wireless hand-held device, either overt or covert, by a student or group of students toward other students, including violence within a dating relationship, with the intent to harass, intimidate, injure, threaten, ridicule, or humiliate. Such behaviors are prohibited on or immediately adjacent to school grounds, at any school-sponsored activity, on school provided transportation, or at any official school bus stop that a reasonable person under the circumstances should know will have the effect of:
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Causing mental or physical harm to the other students including placing an individual in reasonable fear of physical harm and/or damaging of students’ personal property; and,
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Is sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating, threatening, or abusive educational environment for the other students.
Retaliation/False Charges
Retaliation against any person who reports, is thought to have reported, files a complaint, or otherwise participates in an investigation or inquiry related to a complaint of aggressive behavior and/or bullying is prohibited. Such retaliation shall be considered a serious violation of Board policy and independent of whether a complaint is substantiated and may result in disciplinary action. This may include suspension or up to expulsion for students, up to discharge for employees, exclusion for parents, guests, volunteers, and contractors, and removal from any official position and/or a request to resign for Board members. Individuals may also be referred to law enforcement officials. False charges shall also be regarded as a serious offense and will result in disciplinary action or other appropriate sanctions. Suspected retaliation should be reported in the same manner as aggressive behavior and/or bullying.
Remedial Actions
Verified acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying shall result in an intervention by the building principal or his/her designee that is intended to provide that the prohibition against harassment, intimidation, or bullying behavior is enforced, with the goal that any such prohibited behavior will cease.
Harassment, intimidation, and bullying behavior can take many forms and can vary dramatically in seriousness and impact on the targeted individual and other students. Accordingly, there is no one prescribed response to verified acts of harassment, intimidation, and bullying. While conduct that rises to the level of "harassment, intimidation, or bullying," as defined above will generally warrant disciplinary action against the perpetrator of such prohibited behaviors whether or to what extent to impose disciplinary action (detention, in and out-of-school suspension, or expulsion) is a matter for the professional discretion of the building principal. The following sets forth possible interventions for building principals to enforce the Board’s prohibition against "harassment, intimidation, or bullying."
Non-Disciplinary Interventions
When verified acts of harassment, intimidation or bullying are identified early and/or when such verified acts do not reasonably require a disciplinary response, students may be counseled as to the definition of harassment, intimidation, or bullying, its prohibition, and their duty to avoid any conduct that could be considered harassing, intimidating, or bullying.
If a complaint arises out of conflict between students or groups of students, peer mediation may be considered. Special care, however, is warranted in referring such cases to peer mediation. A power imbalance may make the process intimidating for the victim and therefore inappropriate. The victim’s communication and assertiveness skills may be low and could be further eroded by fear resulting from past intimidation and fear of future intimidation. In such cases, the victim should be given additional support. Alternatively, peer mediation may be deemed inappropriate to address the concern.
Disciplinary Interventions
When acts of harassment, intimidation, and bullying are verified and a disciplinary response is warranted, students are subject to the full range of disciplinary consequences. Anonymous complaints that are not otherwise verified, however, shall not be the basis for disciplinary action.
In and out-of-school suspension may be imposed only after informing the accused perpetrator of the reasons for the proposed suspension and giving him/her an opportunity to explain the situation.
Expulsion may be imposed in accordance with Board policy. This consequence shall be reserved for serious incidents of harassment, intimidation, or bullying and/or when past interventions have not been successful in eliminating prohibited behaviors.
Reporting Obligations
If after investigation, acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying by a specific student are verified, the principal shall notify, in writing the custodial parent/guardian of the perpetrator of that finding. If disciplinary consequences are imposed against such student, a description of such discipline shall be included in the notification.
If after investigation, acts of bullying against a specific student are verified, the Principal shall notify in writing the custodial parent/guardian of the victim of such finding. In providing such notification, care shall be taken to respect the statutory privacy rights of the perpetrator of such harassment, intimidation, or bullying.
Semiannually, the Superintendent shall provide the Board President a written summary of all reported incidents of harassment, intimidation, or bullying and post the summary on the District website.
Intervention Strategies
In addition to the prompt investigation of complaints of harassment, intimidation, or bullying and direct intervention when such prohibited acts are verified, other District actions may ameliorate any potential problem with harassment, intimidation or bullying in school or at school-sponsored activities. While no specific action is required and school needs for such interventions may vary from time-to-time, the following list of potential intervention strategies shall serve as a resource for administrators and school personnel:
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Respectful responses to harassment, intimidation or bullying concerns raised by students, parents, or school personnel.
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Planned professional development programs addressing targeted individuals’ problem, including what is safe and acceptable Internet use.
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Data collection to document victim problems to determine the nature and scope of the problem.
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Use of peers to help ameliorate the plight of victims and include them in group activities.
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Avoidance of sex-role stereotyping (e.g., males need to be strong and tough).
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Awareness and involvement on the part of all school personnel and parents with regard to victim problems.
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An attitude that promotes communication, friendship, assertiveness skills and character education.
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Modeling by school personnel of positive, respectful, and supportive behavior toward students.
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Creating a school atmosphere of team spirit and collaboration that promotes appropriate social behavior by students in support of others (Ohio School Climate Guidelines).
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Employing classroom strategies that instruct students how to work together in a collaborative and supportive atmosphere.
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Form harassment, intimidation, and bullying task forces, programs, and other initiatives involving volunteers, parents, law enforcement, and community members.
Intervention Strategies for Protecting Victims
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Supervise and discipline offending students fairly and consistently.
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Provide adult supervision during recess, lunch time, bathroom breaks, and in the hallways during times of transition.
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Maintain contact with parents and guardians of all involved parties.
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Assist the victims to obtain counseling if assessment indicates that it is needed.
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Inform school personnel of the incident and instruct them to monitor the victim and the offending party for indications of harassing, intimidating, and bullying behavior. Personnel are to intervene when prohibited behaviors are witnessed.
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Check with the victim daily to verify that there has been no incidents of harassment, intimidation, bullying, or retaliation from the offender or other parties.
Training
Orientation sessions for students shall introduce the elements of this policy and procedure. Students will be provided with age-appropriate information on the recognition and prevention of harassment, intimidation, or bullying, including dating violence prevention education in grades 7-12, written or verbal discussion of the consequences for violations of Policy 5517.01, and their rights and responsibilities under this and other District policies, procedures, and rules, at student orientation sessions and on other appropriate occasions. Parents will be provided with information about this policy and procedure, as well as information about other District and school rules and disciplinary policies. This policy and procedure shall be reproduced in student, staff, volunteer, and parent handbooks.
Information regarding the policy on harassment, intimidation, and bullying behaviors shall be incorporated into training materials used with employees and volunteers with direct contact with students. The in-service education provided to middle and high school employees shall include training in the prevention of dating violence. Time spent by school employees in the training, workshops, or courses shall apply toward any State or District-mandated continuing education requirements.
School personnel members are encouraged to address the issue of harassment, intimidation, and bullying in other interaction with students. School personnel may find opportunities to educate students about bullying and help eliminate bullying behavior through class discussions, counseling, and reinforcement of socially appropriate behavior. School personnel should intervene promptly whenever they observe student conduct that has the purpose or effect of ridiculing, humiliating, or intimidating another student, even if such conduct does not meet the formal definition of "harassment, intimidation, or bullying."
Police and Child Protective Services
Allegations of criminal misconduct and suspected child abuse will be reported to the appropriate law enforcement agency and/or to Child Protective Services (CPS), according to the prescribed timelines. The School District shall also investigate for the purpose of determining whether there has been a violation of District Policy, even if law enforcement or CPS officials are also investigating. All School District personnel shall cooperate with investigations by outside agencies.
In addition to, or instead of, filing a bullying, harassment, or intimidation complaint through this policy, a complainant may choose to exercise other options, including but not limited to filing a complaint with outside agencies or filing a private lawsuit. Nothing prohibits a complainant from seeking redress under other provisions of the Revised Code or law that may apply.
(End of AG 5517.01)
- Substance Misuse
- Education
- School intervention Procedures
- Disciplinary Procedures and Action for Alcohol, Tobacco and Drug Misuse in Dublin Schools
- Staff Responsibilities
- Administrator Responsibilities
- Disciplinary Action
- Reentry and Support Services
Substance Misuse
Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Use Statement of Concern
Substance misuse is one of today’s major health problems, resulting in increased human tragedy and economic loss. The Dublin School District recognizes a substance use disorder as a treatable disease that can be permanently arrested and which is often preceded by the misuse and abuse of mood altering substances. The Dublin School District believes the problem is much broader than use in the schools and that it reflects the attitude and beliefs of the peer group and the adult society. The social stigma often associated with substance misuse increases the suffering of the individual and his/her family. Because the misuse of alcohol, tobacco, and drugs often causes inappropriate and/or disruptive behavior not normal for a particular student, affirmative action will include appropriate disciplinary procedures plus rehabilitative services including education, counseling, parental/guardian involvement and appropriate referral.
Viewed from a school perspective, the efforts to eliminate the misuse of drugs, alcohol and other harmful substances in the schools are based upon the beliefs that: (1) schools have a responsibility to teach about the harmful effects of drugs and alcohol, and (2) the use of drugs and alcohol leads to impairment of learning and behavior. Efforts will be directed in three areas: education, disciplinary procedures and reentry support services.
Education
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The Health Education Graded Course of Study includes instructional objectives related to substance misuse. The course of study receives ongoing evaluations as to how effectively it is being carried out at each grade level.
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Each building administrator, on an annual basis, shall be responsible for establishing an in-service program to educate his/her staff in recognizing, reporting and dealing with alcohol, tobacco and drug misuse. Additional training and information will be made available to the staff as is necessary to assure their understanding and ability to deal with possible substance misuse problems.
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Information and material on alcohol, tobacco and drug use will be made available to parents/guardians through the school on an annual basis.
School intervention Procedures
The following procedures have been developed to assist staff members and families in dealing with inappropriate behavior, which may result from alcohol, tobacco and drug misuse.
If a staff member has reason to believe that a student’s behavior and/or appearance is inappropriate, and that this behavior may be caused by alcohol, tobacco and drug misuse, the staff member will notify the appropriate school administrator to determine appropriate next steps.
Disciplinary Procedures and Action for Alcohol, Tobacco and Drug Misuse in Dublin Schools
It is the responsibility of the building administrator to inform students, staff and parents concerning the substance misuse policy of the Dublin School District. The Dublin School District believes that substance use disorders are treatable. The Dublin School District further believes that disciplinary action is part of a multifaceted plan to help support students to remain free of alcohol, tobacco and drugs.
Students of the Dublin School District shall not knowingly possess, use, sell, attempt to sell, give or otherwise transmit or be under the influence of any drug, the possession of which is prohibited by law, including narcotic or hallucinogenic drugs or intoxicants of any kind. Included as well are the “look-alike” drugs as defined in Section 2925.01 (P) of the Ohio Revised Code. The restrictions on these activities shall include drug paraphernalia or instruments such as pipes, roach clips, syringes, hypodermic needles, cocaine spoons or kits and any other items normally or actually used for the packaging, conveyance, dispensation or use of drugs. Any such items will not be permitted on any school property and will be subject to confiscation. This will be enforced by the administration:
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During the course of any school year, including summer school sessions and extracurricular activities;
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On any property owned, leased by or under the control of the Dublin Board of Education, including vehicles used for the transportation of students;
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At any school sponsored or sanctioned activity or event away from or within the school district
Staff Responsibilities
All staff members shall bring to the attention of the building administrator any student they believe is in violation of the Student Code of Conduct related to alcohol, tobacco and drug misuse. School personnel will not attempt to make a medical diagnosis. All staff members will be made aware of their responsibilities for reporting any suspected misuse and/or selling of drugs.
Administrator Responsibilities
The building administrator is responsible for assembling information concerning a student’s suspected violation of the Student Code of Conduct related to alcohol, tobacco and drug misuse.
Confidentiality is essential, and this information should be shared only with the persons directly involved in the student’s education and welfare.
When a building administrator has reason to believe that a student is in violation of the Student Code of Conduct related to alcohol, tobacco and drug misuse, the following action will be taken:
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The student will be brought to the administrator’s office.
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If the student is in need of medical attention the medical emergency squad will be notified to render medical attention.
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The building administrator will notify the local police department and charges could be filed against the student.
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The parents/guardian will be notified immediately and asked to meet with school officials for consultation.
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See “Search and Seizure.”
Disciplinary Action
The actions set forth in the Student Code of Conduct (under Rule #1: Narcotics, alcoholic beverages, drugs, drug paraphernalia, counterfeit controlled substances, or mood altering chemicals of any kind) will be considered routine disciplinary measures for each category and occurrence of offense and shall be administered in accordance with the policies and regulations of the Dublin School District. By “routine disciplinary measures” it is intended that the penalties delineated in the Student Code of Conduct (under Rule #1: Narcotics, alcoholic beverages, drugs, drug paraphernalia, counterfeit controlled substances, or mood altering chemicals of any kind) shall be considered the standard penalty to be imposed for the offense described. In incidents where extreme violations occur, the specified actions may be waived by the school administrator in favor of stronger measures.
Whenever the penalties described in the Student Code of Conduct regarding alcohol, tobacco and drug misuse are increased or lessened, the administrator shall include in his/her written report to the Superintendent of schools, or his/her designee the reason for the adjustment. In order to protect the health and safety of its students and employees, the Dublin School District reserves the right to file complaints in Franklin County Juvenile Court regarding violation of these regulations.
Possession/use, being under the influence, supplying, selling or distributing illegal drugs or other controlled substances, when such possession/use or control is prohibited by law or by policies or regulations by the Board, will result in the disciplinary actions described in the Student Code of Conduct and the Co-Curricular Activity Code related to alcohol, tobacco and drug misuse. Violations are cumulative within each of the following periods of academic life: (1) Grades K through 5; (2) Grades 6 through 8; and (3) Grades 9 through 12.
Reentry and Support Services
The person who is reentering the school environment will be involved in taking one day at a time in his/her adjustment to a social and academic life that does not involve the use of chemicals. The school, in its awareness of this difficult recovery period, needs to help the student plan an academic program which can provide situations in which a sense of accomplishment can be experienced.
Students reentering the school environment will be assigned to a school counselor. The school counselor, an administrator, student and the student’s parents will develop a plan for reentry, which will assist the student during this transitional period.
- Safety Guidelines for Riding Dublin City Schools Buses
- Videotapes on School Buses
- Penalties for Infractions
- Dublin City Schools Bus Discipline Referral Procedure
- Alternative Transportation Guidelines
Safety Guidelines for Riding Dublin City Schools Buses
All rules listed below are taken from the bus regulations developed by the State Department of Education in cooperation with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. We feel these rules will help ensure a safe and orderly environment on each bus for all students.
Students riding Dublin City Schools buses shall:
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Always obey and cooperate with the bus driver promptly and respectfully.
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Observe the Dublin City Schools Student Code of Conduct on the bus.
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Turn in a completed medical emergency card to the bus driver within three (3) days after receiving it.
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Arrive at the bus stop 5 to 10 minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive. Buses are on a time schedule and will not return for late students before or after school.
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Not behave at the bus stop in a manner, which may threaten life, limb or property of any individual. When getting on or off the bus, students must cross the street or highway only when the driver has signaled that the way is clear. Students must remain visible to the driver at all times.
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Wait for the bus to come to a complete stop and the door to open before leaving the Designated Place of Safety to get on the bus or before getting up from a seat to get off the bus.
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Go directly to an available or assigned seat - do not stand. Students may not change seats without the driver’s permission.
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Remain seated, keeping aisles and exits clear at all times.
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Not put any part of the body out of a bus window. Please do not open or close the windows on the bus without the driver’s permission.
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Talk quietly at all times. At railroad crossings there is to be no talking.
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Not use profane language.
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Not eat, drink, spit, or litter on the bus.
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Not throw or pass objects on, from or into the bus.
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Carry on the bus only objects that can be held in their laps.
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Not bring animals, dangerous materials, or objects onto the bus.
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Not damage the bus in any way. If you damage the bus, you will be responsible to pay to have the bus repaired. Report to the driver any damage you find.
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Ride their regularly assigned bus and leave or board the bus at locations, which they have been assigned unless each student has parental and administrative authorization to do otherwise.
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Not use electronic equipment, such as radios, CD players, cell phones, etc., unless permitted to do so by the bus driver. In no case will the use of any electronic device be permitted that creates a distraction for the bus driver.
Videotapes on School Buses
Penalties for Infractions
Dublin City Schools Bus Discipline Referral Procedure
As stated in the Student Code of Conduct, “A student shall not violate bus regulations.” There is a Bus Discipline Referral Procedure in place, which includes a variety of interventions and documentation by the bus driver. Normally, interventions include driver-to-student and driver-to-parent contact; if there is no resolution, the Discipline Referral Report is handed over to the building principal.
Alternative Transportation Guidelines
A signed waiver is required if there are any adjustments in the normal pick up or drop-off location of a student. A temporary change may be requested in writing and sent directly to the school at least two days in advance. A long-term adjustment requires a Transportation Form with a minimum 2-week notice. Requested changes are contingent upon availability of space on the bus.