Middle School Student Conduct

Definitions:

1. ALC - Alternative Learning Center

2. OSS- Out of School Suspension

RULE 1. Narcotics, alcoholic beverages, drugs, drug paraphernalia, counterfeit controlled substances, or mood altering chemicals of any kind:  A student shall not knowingly buy, sell, supply, apply, possess, use, transmit, conceal, be under the influence of the aforementioned items, assist and/or facilitate in the sale of the aforementioned items, or otherwise violate regulations “Counterfeit Controlled Substances” or “Substance Misuse.” 

“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 container 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 rug kits.

Use/Possession (including:  buy, apply, possess, use, transmit, conceal, be under the influence):

1st Offense:

Minimum and Maximum:  10 day OSS (out of school suspension).  The suspension may be reduced to 5 days with the agreement of the student and parent/guardian to complete the district approved alcohol, tobacco and drug use education program. If the student and family do not complete the program, the student will be assigned the remaining 5 days –AND– any additional penalties as outlined in the Student-Parent Co-Curricular Activity Handbook and the Substance Misuse (see page 43).

2nd Offense:

Minimum and Maximum:  10 day OSS (out of school suspension) with a recommendation to the superintendent the student be expelled from school –OR– 

Minimum and Maximum:  10 day OSS (out of school suspension) and the student will complete assessment/evaluation by a district approved counselor to evaluate the substance use.  The student/family must comply with all recommendations of the assessment/evaluation –AND– any additional penalties as outlined in the Student-Parent Co-Curricular Activity Handbook and the Substance Misuse (see page 43).

3rd Offense:

Minimum and Maximum:  10 day OSS (out of school suspension) with a recommendation to the superintendent the student be expelled from school –AND– any additional penalties as outlined in the Student-Parent Co-Curricular Activity Handbook and the Substance Misuse (see page 43).

Sale (including: buy, sell, and supply):

Minimum and Maximum:  10 day OSS (out of school suspension) with a recommendation to the superintendent the student be expelled from school –AND– any additional penalties as outlined in the Student-Parent Co-Curricular Activity Handbook and the Substance Misuse (see page 43).

RULE 2. 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.

Minimum:   After School Detention.

Maximum:  10 day OSS with possible recommendation of expulsion to superintendent.

RULE 3. Damage to School Property:  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.  Parent(s), guardian(s), or custodian(s) will be held financially responsible for any property damage by their child under Ohio Revised Code 3109.09 and 2307.70.

Minimum:   After School Detention.

Maximum:  10 day OSS with possible recommendation of expulsion to superintendent.

RULE 4. Damage to Private Property:  A student shall not damage or attempt to damage private property of another.  Parent(s), guardian(s), or custodian(s) will be held financially responsible for any property damage by their child under Ohio Revised Code 3109.09 and 2307.70.

Minimum:  After School Detention.

Maximum:  10 day OSS with possible recommendation of expulsion to superintendent.

RULE 5. Assault and/or Fighting:  A student shall not knowingly act or behave in such a way as could cause or attempt to cause physical injury to other students, any school employee, or other persons.

Minimum:  1 day ALC.

Maximum:  10 day OSS with possible recommendation of expulsion to superintendent.

RULE 6. Manifest Disrespect:  A student shall not demonstrate manifest disrespect toward any other individual.  Actions may include verbal or nonverbal disrespect, psychological or material abuse.

Minimum:  1 day ALC.

Maximum:  10 day OSS.

RULE 7. Dangerous Weapons & Instruments:  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 Weapons in School).

Minimum and Maximum:  10 day OSS, possible recommendation to the superintendent for expulsion* and possible referral to police, juvenile justice system*.

*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 law 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.

Minimum:  After School Detention.

Maximum:  10 day OSS with possible recommendation for expulsion.

RULE 9. Threatening a Person:  Students shall not threaten another with the purpose of obtaining any valuable thing or valuable benefit.  Nor should any student threaten physical injury to other students, any school employee, or other persons.

Minimum:  1 day ALC.

Maximum:  10 day OSS with possible recommendation of expulsion to superintendent.

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.

Minimum:  After School Detention.

Maximum:  3 day OSS.

RULE 11. Cheating:  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.

Minimum:  After School Detention.

Maximum:  1 day ALC.

RULE 12. Felony, Misdemeanor and Violation of Ordinances:  A student shall not commit any act not listed herein as a violation of the Student Code of Conduct that constitutes a felony, misdemeanor or violation of an ordinance.

Minimum and Maximum:  Administrative discretion including possible recommendation to the superintendent for expulsion.

RULE 13. Repeated or Flagrant Violations of the Student Code of Conduct (except detentions as noted below):  Such violations shall be dealt with in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.

Minimum:  1 day ALC.

Maximum:  10 day OSS with possible recommendation of expulsion to superintendent.

Detention accumulation:  Students who receive 8 or more detentions may be assigned ALC or OSS.

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 that are guests of the school or persons conducting business for the school or otherwise violate the “Anti-Hazing Policy.”

Minimum:  After School Detention.

Maximum:  5 day OSS.

RULE 15. Use of Obscene Language, Gestures, and Possession of Inappropriate Materials:  A student shall not use obscene or vulgar language, gestures, signs, or possess inappropriate materials.

Minimum:  Detention.

Maximum:  5-day ALC.

RULE 16. Out of Assigned Area:  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.

Minimum:  Detention.

Maximum:  5 day ALC.

RULE 17. Tardiness:  Students shall arrive at school and 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.”  Unexcused tardies, for this purpose, are accumulated during one semester.

1st level (3 Unexcused Tardies):  Administrative warning.

2nd level (6 Unexcused Tardies): Lunch Detention(s) based on Administrative discretion.

3rd level (9 or more Unexcused Tardies): After School Detention based on Administrator discretion.

All Tardy times will also be included in terms of truancy minutes.

RULE 18. Tobacco and Similar Substances:  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. Discipline could potentially be reduced by attendance at a Vaping education class.

Minimum:  1 day OSS.

Maximum:  10 days OSS.

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.

Minimum:  After School Detention.

Maximum:  3 day OSS.

RULE 20. Conduct on Buses:  A student shall not violate “Bus Misconduct and Bus Regulations.”

Bus Discipline Ladder:

1st referral to Administration Warning from Administration

2nd referral to Administration 3 day bus suspension

3rd referral to Administration 5 day bus suspension

4th referral to Administration 10 day bus suspension

More than 4 referrals Repeat 10 day suspension and possible

recommendation to superintendent of permanent

removal from the bus.

*Interventions prior to school referral

First:  Driver to Student

Second:  Driver to Parent

*All school rules are in force on the bus and Code violations may be addressed by the administration in addition to the bus discipline ladder.

RULE 21. Public Display of Affection:  A student shall not engage in inappropriate public displays of affection.

Minimum:  Detention.

Maximum:  1 day ALC.

RULE 22. Dress:  A student shall not violate the “Dress Code.”

Minimum:  Detention.

Maximum:  1 day ALC.

RULE 23. Gambling:  A student shall not engage in any form of gambling.

Minimum:  Detention.

Maximum:  1 day ALC.

RULE 24. Insubordination:  A student shall not be insubordinate or fail to comply with the reasonable directions of members of the school staff.

Minimum:  After School Detention.

Maximum:  5 day OSS.

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 including 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 the 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 an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational environment; (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 upon a student’s educational opportunities (see Harassment).

Minimum:  1 day ALC.

Maximum:  10 day OSS with possible recommendation of expulsion to superintendent.

RULE 26. General Misconduct:  The General Misconduct 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 or which substantially and materially is or poses a threat to persons or property (Refer to Disruptive Items).

Minimum:  Administrative warning

Maximum:  Administrative discretion

RULE 27. Education Technology Use and Safety Policy:  A student shall not violate the “Student Education Technology Acceptable Use and Safety Policy”.

Minimum:  Detention.

Maximum:  5 days OSS.  Discipline may also include loss of Internet privileges and computer usage.

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:  Administrative discretion

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:  Administrative discretion

The conduct codes apply to all students on 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, such as, After School Detention, Alternative Learning Center, etc.  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.

Each case referred to the administration will be handled on an individual basis. Appropriate consequences to the individual student will be based on the number and seriousness of the conduct violation, the circumstances of the violation, and the student’s behavior history.

1. Parent conference

2. Behavior plan

3. Team or office detention

4. After School Detention assignment

5. Work assignment

6. Alternative learning environment

7. Bus riding privilege suspension

8. Suspension

9. Emergency removal

10. Expulsion

Students who display inappropriate behavior in the classroom, or fail to follow the classroom or team rules, are sometimes provided with after-school or before-school detention time as a consequence of their action.  Detentions are usually served in the classrooms with team teachers acting as detention supervisors. If a student fails to serve an assigned detention, the student will be referred to the administration.

After School Detention

After School Detention is a disciplinary assignment given by the administrators to those students who have violated the Dublin City Schools Code of Conduct. After School Detention will be held at each of the four middle schools during the school year.  This could include participation in service projects at an off-site location. 

General

1. After School Detention will allow students to work on school studies and improve their likelihood of success in the classroom.

2. Students will not be allowed to sleep or talk during After School Detention.

3. After School Detention will not be an alternative for substance misuse offenses, assaults or fighting.

4. Excuses such as job responsibilities, work at home, family obligations, school activities or lack of transportation are not acceptable reasons for missing After School Detention.

5. After School Detention is not appealable.

6. Students could participate in various service projects throughout the year in lieu of traditional after school detention. This could include, but not limited to, food pantry service, Friendship Village, and community clean up. In this case students will/could need to submit a permission slip and will be transported to and from the experience.

Attendance

1. Students shall attend After School Detention from 3:15 to 5:45 pm.

2. All school rules are to be observed while students are on or off school grounds.

3. Students not reporting to After School Detention or not fulfilling the requirements of After School Detention will be subject to further disciplinary actions.

Academic

1. Students shall be required to do school-related work during After School Detention.

2. 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.

3. When appropriate, a certificated teacher will offer assistance upon request to students having academic difficulties.

The Alternative Learning Center (ALC) is a disciplinary assignment given by the administration to those students who have violated the Dublin City Schools Code of Conduct. ALC is supervised by a certified teacher at the student’s home school. Students assigned to ALC are provided with work by their teachers.  Students assigned to ALC shall receive both academic and attendance credit for the day in which they are assigned.

1. A certified teacher will supervise the A.L.C.

2. Students are to report to the A.L.C. as assigned.

3. When a student is absent from the A.L.C., a parent must notify the school.

4. If a student is tardy to the A.L.C., an additional day may be added to the A.L.C. assignment. An excused absence will result in a makeup day assignment.  Truancy from the A.L.C. may result in an out-of-school suspension.

5. Students are responsible for bringing all needed textbooks and classroom materials to the A.L.C. Students will not be excused to leave the A.L.C. for any reason except an emergency.

6. Students receive credit for assigned work and attendance.  All the student’s teachers will submit the student’s assignments to the supervising teacher prior to the first day of the student’s removal from regular classes.

7. Rest room breaks will be provided for students assigned to the A.L.C. and will be supervised.

8. In addition to the rules of the A.L.C., all school district rules and policies will apply to students in the A.L.C.

9. Students who are disruptive in the A.L.C. or who do not follow the prescribed rules will be suspended out of school and must complete all remaining days of the original A.L.C. assignment upon their return to school.

10. A.L.C. is not appealable.

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:

1. causes mental or physical harm to the other students; and

2. 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:

1. causes mental or physical harm to the other student/school personnel; and

2. 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:

1. physical violence and/or attacks;

2. threats, taunts, and intimidation through words and/or gestures;

3. extortion, damage, or stealing of money and/or possessions

4. exclusion from the peer group or spreading rumors;

5. 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:

6. 1. posting slurs on web sited where students congregate or on web logs (personal on-line journals or diaries)

   2. sending abusive or threatening instant messages;

   3. using camera phones to take embarrassing photographs of students and posting them on-line/or otherwise distributing them;

   4. using web sited to circulate gossip and rumores to other students; and,

   5. excluding others from an on-line group by falsely reporting them for inappropriate language to Internet Service Providers

7. 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:

1. 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,

2. 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:

1. Respectful responses to harassment, intimidation or bullying concerns raised by students, parents, or school personnel.

2. Planned professional development programs addressing targeted individuals’ problem, including what is safe and acceptable Internet use.

3. Data collection to document victim problems to determine the nature and scope of the problem.

4. Use of peers to help ameliorate the plight of victims and include them in group activities.

5. Avoidance of sex-role stereotyping (e.g., males need to be strong and tough).

6. Awareness and involvement on the part of all school personnel and parents with regard to victim problems.

7. An attitude that promotes communication, friendship, assertiveness skills and character education.

8. Modeling by school personnel of positive, respectful, and supportive behavior toward students.

9. Creating a school atmosphere of team spirit and collaboration that promotes appropriate social behavior by students in support of others (Ohio School Climate Guidelines).

10. Employing classroom strategies that instruct students how to work together in a collaborative and supportive atmosphere.

11. Form harassment, intimidation, and bullying task forces, programs, and other initiatives involving volunteers, parents, law enforcement, and community members.

Intervention Strategies for Protecting Victims

1. Supervise and discipline offending students fairly and consistently.

2. Provide adult supervision during recess, lunch time, bathroom breaks, and in the hallways during times of transition.

3. Maintain contact with parents and guardians of all involved parties.

4. Assist the victims to obtain counseling if assessment indicates that it is needed.

5. 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.

6. 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)

1. Suspension

1. 1. 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.

   2. The student shall have an opportunity to appear in an informal hearing before the Principal, Assistant Principal, or Superintendent or Superintendent’s 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.

   3. Within one (1) school day of the suspension, the parent, guardian, and/or custodian (hereafter referred to as “Parent”) of the student and the Treasurer of the Board will be notified in writing of Principal, or Assistant 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.

   4. Students who violate the misconduct codes 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 teacher.  Students who are suspended for violating the code of conduct are eligible to make up nine (9) week tests, semester tests, and final exams and receive his/her earned grade on the test.  All students affected by this policy have access to class assignments during their out-of-school suspension.  Students may get assignments from classmates and are encouraged to do all work to maintain academic progress.  Suspended students cannot participate in or attend any school-related activities during the period of suspension.

2. Appeal of Suspension

1. 1. 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.

   2. 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.

   3. 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.

   4. 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.

   5. A student shall remain suspended for the duration of the suspension unless and until action modifying the suspension is taken on appeal.

   6. The decision of the Board or Board’s designee may be appealed to the Court of Common Pleas as authorized by Ohio law.

   7. 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.

3. Expulsion

1. 1. 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.  If at the time of the expulsion, there are fewer than eighty (80) days remaining in the school year, the Superintendent may apply any or all of the remaining period to the following school year.

   2. 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/her parent.

   3. 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 Board of Education or its designee and the right to be represented by legal counsel at the appeal.

   4. 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.

4. Appeal of Expulsion

1. 1. A student or student’s parent/guardian may appeal an expulsion by the Superintendent to the Board’s designee.

   2. 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.

   3. 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.

   4. The student shall remain expelled for the duration of the expulsion unless or until action modifying the expulsion is taken on appeal.

   5. 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.

   6. 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.

5. Emergency Removals

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 accord 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 a curricular or extracurricular activity prior 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.

6. Violation of Law

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.

7. Discipline of Students with Disabilities

Students with disabilities will be entitled to the rights and procedures afforded by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEIA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

8. Investigations of Violations of Law by Law Enforcement Agencies

1. 1. Such agencies should contact a student during non-school hours and investigate alleged violations of the law off school property if at all possible.

   2. An investigation can take place immediately on school property during school hours at the request of the building administrator if the alleged violation of law took place on school property or in emergency situations.

   3. Before the student(s) is (are) questioned as a witness to or suspect in an alleged violation of law, the building administrator shall attempt to contact the parent prior to questioning and the building administrator or guidance counselor shall remain in the room during the questioning unless compelling reasons for exclusion are provided by the agency.

   4. In those circumstances when an interrogation may expose a student to criminal charges, the building principal should also verify that the student(s) has been informed of his/her right to refuse to answer questions, to be informed that anything s/he says may be used against him/her in court, and to consult with and be advised by legal counsel.

   5. When an authorized law enforcement officer removes a student, the building administrator shall notify the parent and the Superintendent prior to the student's removal.

   6. No school official may release personally identifiable student information in education records, with the exception of directory information, to the police without prior written permission of the parent, a lawfully-issued subpoena, or a court order. (See Board Policy 8330).

9. The use of physical restraint

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.

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:

1. protect the confidentiality of the student who files a complaint;

2. encourage the reporting of any incidents of sexual or other forms of harassment;

3. protect the reputation of any party wrongfully charged with harassment.

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

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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:

1. During the course of any school year, including summer school sessions and extracurricular activities;

2. On any property owned, leased by or under the control of the Dublin Board of Education, including vehicles used for the transportation of students;

3. 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:

1. The student will be brought to the administrator’s office.

2. If the student is in need of medical attention the medical emergency squad will be notified to render medical attention.

3. The building administrator will notify the local police department and charges could be filed against the student.

4. The parents/guardian will be notified immediately and asked to meet with school officials for consultation.

5. 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.

[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 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)

1. Goals

• • Maintain a safe learning environment

  • Allow students to wear clothing of their choice that is safe and comfortable

  • Allow students to wear clothing that expresses their self-identified gender.

  • Allow students to wear religious attire without fear of discipline or discrimination. 

  • Prevent students from wearing clothing with images or language depicting or advocating violence or the use of alcohol or drugs. 

  • Ensure that students are treated equitably regardless of gender/gender identification, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, body type/size, religion, and personal style.

2. Dress Code Responsibilities

• • The primary responsibility for a student’s attire adhering to the school dress code resides with the student and parents or guardians. 

  • 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.

3. Dress Code Policy

• • Students Must Wear

• • • Shirt

    • Bottom: pants / sweatpants / shorts / skirt / dress / leggings

    • Shoes (activity-specific shoes are permitted...for example sports and P.E.)

• • Examples of items Students May Wear

• • • Religious Headwear

    • Hoodie Sweatshirts (with hoods down)

    • Fitted pants, including leggings, yoga pants, and “skinny jeans”

    • Ripped jeans as long as underwear is not exposed

    • Tank Tops (sleeveless blouses are OK, spaghetti straps are not)

    • Shorts (length and fit should be appropriate for school)

    • Athletic attire

• • Items Students Cannot Wear

    • Violent language or images

    • Images depicting drug alcohol (or any illegal item or activity) or use of the same

    • Hate speech, profanity, or sexually explicit images

    • Images or language that creates a hostile or intimidating environment based on any protected class. 

    • Visible Underwear (Visible waistbands or straps on undergarments worn under are not a violation) 

    • Headgear of any kind that obscures the face, this includes scarves, bandannas, etc.. (except as a religious observance)

    • Sunglasses indoors

4. Dress Code Enforcement

• • Enforcement should be consistent with a school’s overall discipline plan. (Rule 22)

  • Violations should be treated as minor on the continuum of school rule violations. 

  • Best practice would indicate that students do not miss academic instruction for violations that solely have to do with the dress code. 

  • 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.  

  • No student population should be disproportionately affected by dress code enforcement because of gender, race, body size, or body maturity

  • These guidelines are not to be considered all-inclusive. Administration reserves the right to deal with any apparel determined to be inappropriate. 

***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. 

Dress for Physical Education

All students are required to participate in physical education class. Failure to participate will result in a loss of points.  If students are ill and cannot participate, they must secure a note from the school nurse or their parents.  A doctor’s excuse is required if the student is unable to participate due to physical limitations. Students are required to wear proper footwear and are encouraged to wear appropriate clothing for physical activity. The students will have the opportunity to change clothes for PE class if they need or want to before and after class.

Book Bags

Any bag or purse that is large enough to carry a school book or notebook will be considered to be a book bag.  Students may bring a book bag or backpack to school, but they might not be permitted to take them into classrooms.  Athletic equipment needs to be secured in assigned athletic lockers prior to the school day.

Food in Classrooms

Food, drinks, and candy, are prohibited in the classroom unless part of the class activity or with the permission of the school administration and/or classroom teacher.

Sale of Items by Students

The sale of any items at school must have prior approval of the administration.

Students may attend after school dances, at their school of attendance only.  This means that no guests from other schools may attend.  Students must stay until the end of the dance, unless other arrangements were made with the administration.  If a student leaves the dance, s/he is not allowed to return. Students not in attendance during the school day may not attend a school dance except with the permission of the administration. School dance attendance is only for students who attend the hosting school. Student behavior at the dance is governed by the Dublin City Schools Student Code of Conduct.

Students riding skateboards to school must check the board at the office upon arrival.  No skateboards will be allowed in class.  Students may check their board out when leaving the building for the day.  Confiscation of the skateboard may occur if there is a violation of these procedures.  No motorized bicycles or mopeds may be ridden to school. Students may ride their bikes to school; however, they must park and chain/lock their bikes to the appropriate bike racks at school.  Students riding bicycles and/or skateboards to school must follow all applicable traffic laws and students are encouraged to wear helmets. If needed, helmets may be stored in the office during school.

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:

1. Always obey and cooperate with the bus driver promptly and respectfully.

2. Observe the Dublin City Schools Student Code of Conduct on the bus.

3. Turn in a completed medical emergency card to the bus driver within three (3) days after receiving it.   

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.    

7. Go directly to an available or assigned seat - do not stand.  Students may not change seats without the driver’s permission. 

8. Remain seated, keeping aisles and exits clear at all times.  

9. 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.

10. Talk quietly at all times.  At railroad crossings there is to be no talking.

11. Not use profane language.

12. Not eat, drink, spit, or litter on the bus.

13. Not throw or pass objects on, from or into the bus.

14. Carry on the bus only objects that can be held in their laps.

15. Not bring animals, dangerous materials, or objects onto the bus.

16. 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.

17. 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.

18. 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 

The Board of Education has installed video cameras on school buses to monitor student behavior.

If a student misbehaves on a bus and his/her actions are recorded on a videotape, the tape will be submitted to the Principal and may be used as evidence of misbehavior. 

Penalties for Infractions 

A student who misbehaves on the bus shall be disciplined in accordance with the Student Discipline Code and may lose the privilege of riding on the bus.

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.