Discipline Matrix: 6th Grade
Due Process: Students shall be afforded due process rights. This includes the right to:
- be informed of conduct which would result in disciplinary action against the student;
- notice of the rule violation;
- explanation of the evidence supporting the charge, including, but not limited to, staff or student corroboration and/or camera footage;
- an opportunity to present the student’s side of the story;
- a penalty that is proportionate to the violation.
Notification of Parents/Guardians: When discipline is imposed, parents/guardians will be contacted by email and/or mailing of the office referral and/or by phone to make them aware of the situation and to discuss appropriate steps to resolve the situation or to address a future situation.
Consequence Definitions
Consequence Definitions
- Detention:
Discipline which requires students to serve time before, during, or after school. - In‐School Suspension (ISS):
Temporary denial to a student by a principal of participation in a class. Suspension will be served in school and the student will receive credit for completed class work. Students with IEPs will continue to receive services from their support teacher. - Out-of-School Suspension (SUS):
Temporary denial to a student by the Principal, Superintendent, or School Board, of participation in a class or classes. - Alternative Placement:
Temporary denial to a student by the Superintendent or School Board of participation in school for more than ten days, but not to exceed ninety days. - Expulsion:
Denial of a student’s membership in school by the school board for a period of time.
Where appropriate, the following additional interventions may be added to any violation:
- Alternative Placement:
Optional short‐term placement program for students who have met guidelines. - Apology:
Written or verbal statement of, acknowledgment of, and accountability for, the offense. - At-Risk Committee:
A team of staff members who work together to help students become and remain successful in school. - Choices Counseling/Conflict Resolution:
Programs designed to teach students to deal with conflict in a constructive manner. - Classroom Reassignment:
Reassignment of a student to a new class because of student misbehavior. - Community Service:
May be served at the school outside of the school day by assisting school staff in carrying out their duties. - Counselor Referral:
Student is referred to their school counselor or an independent counselor. - Evaluation and Counseling:
Student must complete a drug/alcohol assessment to determine the appropriate course of treatment. Once the assessment is completed, student must participate in recommended counseling sessions. - Law Enforcement Referral:
When appropriate, students will be referred to the police for violations that are also violations of city, state, or federal laws. - Restitution:
When appropriate, students will reimburse the school or others for financial damages. - Restrictions:
Removal of student privileges. - Risk/Threat Assessment:
Assessment conducted by an outside agency to determine the safety risk a student poses to a school environment. - Student Conference:
A meeting with administration and/or a counselor or team. - Student Contract:
A written plan or agreement to address discipline concerns. - Warning:
Discussion and plan for change.
Infractions & Consequences
Infractions & Consequences
- Academic Infractions
- Bullying/Harassment/Hazing
- Disrespect and Disobedience
- Disruption
- Dress Code
- Electronic Devices
- Gang Activity
- Property Infractions
- Sexual Misconduct
- Substantial Disruptions and Illegal Activities
- Tobacco, Vape, and Alcohol Products
- Verbal and Physical Altercations
- Additional Infractions
Academic Infractions
Notice: Students in grades K-6 are required to attend 160 days of school. Students in grades 7-12 are required to attend 168 days of school. An extended summer school will be required for those who fail to meet the required attendance standard. See Board Policy JBA.
Academic Dishonesty
Definition: Using or submitting work that is not your own, also known as cheating, plagiarism, copying, transferring computer files, etc. Students will be expected to follow classroom instructions relating to academic integrity.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
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| 2nd |
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| 3rd+ or more |
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Neglecting Obligations
Definition: Neglecting to complete disciplinary obligations such as detention or community service.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
|
| 2nd |
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| 3rd |
|
| 4th+ or more |
|
Tardy
Definition: Late to class or school.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st (6 to 10 tardies) |
|
| 2nd (11 to 15 tardies) |
|
| 3rd (16 to 20 tardies) |
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| 4th+ or more (20+ or more tardies) |
|
Closed Campus
Definition: Leaving school without the permission of administration.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
|
| 2nd |
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| 3rd+ or more |
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Skipping
Definition: Unapproved absence from a class period within the school day, including leaving class without permission.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
|
| 2nd |
|
| 3rd+ or more |
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Bullying/Harassment/Hazing
Report bullying incidents at
www.oxfordsd.org/ReportBullying.
Notice: A meeting of the parent/guardian of a student(s) and appropriate school officials must be held whenever a student is found to have engaged in bullying or is found to have engaged in physical assault or battery of another person on the school bus.
Bullying
Definition: Physical, verbal, written, or electronic conduct, directed toward a student that is: 1) Unwanted, 2) Repeated, and 3) Involves an imbalance of power. These actions are so pervasive, severe, and objectively offensive, that they: 1) have the purpose of creating or resulting in an intimidating, hostile, or offensive academic environment, or 2) have the purpose or effect of substantially or unreasonably interfering with a student’s academic performance, which deprives the student access to educational opportunities.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
|
| 2nd |
|
| 3rd |
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| 4th+ or more |
|
Harassment
Definition: Harassment is a form of discrimination. Physical, verbal, or electronic communication conduct related to a person’s race, religion, national origin, age, gender (including pregnancy), disability, sexual orientation, military status, genetic information or other category protected by law. The District specifically prohibits any form of harassment that is sexual in nature. Includes, but is not limited to, verbal harassment or abuse, implied or overt threat(s), physical acts of aggression, and intimidating behavior, which have the effect of substantially or unreasonably interfering with a student’s education, use of services, or participation in activities.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
|
| 2nd |
|
| 3rd |
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| 4th+ or more |
|
Hazing
Definition: Committing an act against a student or coercing a student to commit an act that creates risk of harm to a person, in order to be initiated into a student organization or class, or for any other purpose.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
|
| 2nd |
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| 3rd |
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| 4th+ or more |
|
Disrespect and Disobedience
Failure to Comply with Instructions
Definition: Communication or actions that demonstrate a lack of respect or courtesy toward an individual.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
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| 2nd |
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| 3rd |
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| 4th+ or more |
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Disrespectful Behavior
Definition: Communication or actions that demonstrate a lack of respect or courtesy toward an individual.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
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| 2nd |
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| 3rd |
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| 4th+ or more |
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Offensive Language/Gesture
Definition: Use of disgusting, hurtful, obscene or foul language, communication, or action.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
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| 2nd |
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| 3rd |
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| 4th+ or more |
|
Insubordination
Definition: Student conduct deemed as repeated unwillingness to submit to authority or refusal to respond to a reasonable request (including providing false information).
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
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| 2nd |
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| 3rd |
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| 4th+ or more |
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Offensive Language Directed at a Staff Member
Definition: Offensive language or gesture as defined above directed at a staff member.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
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| 2nd |
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| 3rd |
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| 4th+ or more |
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Disruption
Class Disruption
Definition: Creating or contributing to a moderate disturbance that disrupts the normal operation of the school environment but doesn't pose a threat to the health or safety of others.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
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| 2nd |
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| 3rd |
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| 4th+ or more |
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School Disruption
Definition: Creating or contributing to a disturbance that disrupts the normal operation of the school environment and poses a threat to the health or safety of others.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
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| 2nd |
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| 3rd |
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| 4th+ or more |
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Dress Code
Notice: Clothing and general appearance are not to cause a disturbance or interfere with the instructional program. Clothing and general appearance must not constitute a health or safety hazard. Students shall not dress in any manner reasonably deemed to be inappropriate and disruptive to the learning process as determined by the school principal.
Inappropriate Dress
Definition: Violation of the school’s dress code (board policy JCDB) including, but not limited to, wearing clothing with profanity, suggestive themes such as alcohol, drugs, sex, death, or violence.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
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| 2nd |
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| 3rd |
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| 4th+ or more |
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Electronic Devices
Cell Phones/Personal Devices
Definition: Possessing a cell phone, or other personal device (air pods etc), that is turned on, on school property between the first bell or last bell of the school day, or on buses contracted by the District, unless authorized by a school official, is in violation of this rule. Student must be actively using the device to be in violation.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
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| 2nd |
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| 3rd |
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| 4th+ or more |
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Electronic Device/Technology Misuse
Definition: Unauthorized and/or non‐educational use of electronic devices/technology. Use of District technology is a privilege and not a right. If the misuse constitutes another violation, consequences consistent with the other violation may also be given.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
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| 2nd |
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| 3rd |
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| 4th+ or more |
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Gang Activity
Gang Activity (Low Level)
Definition: Wearing or possessing gang-related apparel and/or communication, whether verbal, gestures, handshakes, drawings, or writings, to convey membership or affiliation with a gang.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
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| 2nd |
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| 3rd |
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| 4th+ or more |
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Gang Activity (High Level)
Definition: Participation or association with a group in which the student’s conduct presents a threat to himself/herself or others, is not in the best interest of the school, or causes a substantial disruption in the school environment.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| All |
|
Property Infractions
Theft
Definition: Taking something that does not belong to you. Stealing, or attempting to steal, private or school property, or receiving school property.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
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| 2nd |
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| 3rd |
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| 4th+ or more |
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Trespassing
Definition: Entering or remaining on school grounds or facilities without authorization and with no lawful purpose including visiting another school while on an out‐of‐school suspension.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
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| 2nd |
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| 3rd |
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| 4th+ or more |
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Destruction of Property
Definition: Causing or attempting to cause damage to private or school property, or the repeated damage involving private or school property, including graffiti. This also includes the alteration of student or school computer programs or systems.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
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| 2nd |
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| 3rd |
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| 4th+ or more |
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Sexual Misconduct
Notice: The Title IX9 Coordinator will always be notified in cases of Sexual Misconduct.
Notice: Sexual harassment or discrimination on the basis of gender is a violation of Federal Law and is prohibited in the Oxford School District. Any student who has a discrimination or harassment complaint should contact his/her counselor or a school administrator.
Pornographic Materials
Definition: Transmitting, possessing, creating, or viewing obscene writings, drawings, photographs, videos, sound recordings, or the like.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
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| 2nd |
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| 3rd |
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| 4th+ or more |
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Sexual Activity
Definition: Touching of a sexual nature, attempting to engage or engaging in sexual activity, or exposing private body parts.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
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| 2nd |
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| 3rd |
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| 4th+ or more |
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Sexual Violence
Definition: Physical sexual acts against a person’s will, or where a person is incapable of giving consent.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
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| 2nd+ or more |
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Substantial Disruptions and Illegal Activities
Notice – Gun-Free Schools: Any student who has been determined to have brought a firearm to school will be recommended for expulsion from the Oxford School District. In accordance with the Federal Safe School Act of 1994, the minimum period of expulsion will be at least one (1) year.
Fires and Misuse of Fire Alarms/Extinguishers
Definition: Causing, or attempting to cause, a fire on school grounds, pulling a fire alarm, or using a fire extinguisher without valid cause.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| All |
|
Weapons (No Malicious Intent)
Definition: Possession of an item considered to be a weapon when student brought the item to school by accident, without knowing it was a weapon, and/or without the intent to harm others.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| All |
|
Weapons (Intent)
Definition: Possessing, handling, or transmitting any object or material that is ordinarily considered a weapon, look‐alike weapons, or any object that could place a person in reasonable fear of physical harm. Includes, but not limited to knives, razor blades, mace, and pepper spray.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| All |
|
Bomb Threat or Threat of School Shooting
Definition: A threat to detonate an explosive or incendiary device to cause property damage, death, or injuries, regardless of whether such a device actually exists, or a substantial threat or plan to conduct a school shooting.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| All |
|
Firearms
Definition: Carrying, possessing, storing, keeping, leaving, placing, or putting into the possession of another person, any firearm, including an air gun.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| All |
|
Tobacco, Vape, and Alcohol Products
Lighters & Matches
Definition: Possession of lighters or matches.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
|
| 2nd |
|
| 3rd |
|
| 4th+ or more |
|
Tobacco and Vapor Products
Definition: Using, possessing, selling, or dispensing of tobacco and/or vapor products, alcohol and related items, regardless of nicotine content, such as, but not limited to: cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, loose leaf tobacco, vapor pens, e-cigarettes, and e‐liquids and oils. See Policy JCDAA: Use of Tobacco and Smoking Devices.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
|
| 2nd |
|
| 3rd |
|
| 4th+ or more |
|
Mood-Altering Chemicals, Substances, and Paraphernalia
Definition: Using, possessing, or being under the influence, of any mood‐altering chemicals, alcohol products, substances, controlled substances, or controlled substances without a valid prescription, or drug paraphernalia, including vapor pens/e‐cigarettes. This includes transferring, delivering, or receiving any medications to or from another student and using medication for purposes other than for its intended use.
- Definition of “Under the Influence”: Any detectable amount of a mood‐altering substance, such as steroids, marijuana, inhalants, alcohol, or other drugs.
- Definition of “Distribution”: Selling, dispensing, or possessing an amount that suggests distribution of a mood-altering chemical or substance.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
|
| 2nd |
|
| 3rd+ or more |
|
| Violations involving marijuana, THC vapes, etc. |
|
Verbal and Physical Altercations
Notice – Acts of Physical Violence Against School System Employees: The Oxford School District Board of Trustees is required by Mississippi law to hear any case alleging an assault or battery or an act of physical violence against a teacher, school bus driver or other school official or employee. The principal will determine all issues of fact and intent and submit all findings and recommendations to the Superintendent.
Notice – Fighting Ordinance: In addition to school disciplinary action, students are hereby notified that school resource officers are authorized to make arrests and to issue citations for fights occurring on school grounds.
Verbal Dispute
Definition: A confrontation between two or more students without physical aggression or injury.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
|
| 2nd |
|
| 3rd |
|
| 4th+ or more |
|
Verbal Altercation
Definition: A hostile confrontation between two or more students involving the use of profanity and causing a substantial disruption.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
|
| 2nd |
|
| 3rd |
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| 4th+ or more |
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Non-Violent Playful Behavior
Definition: Excessive playful behavior which has the potential to cause harm accidentally (including playful hitting, pushing, shoving or other behaviors which could cause harm unintentionally).
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
|
| 2nd |
|
| 3rd |
|
| 4th+ or more |
|
Physical Aggression Toward a Student
Definition: Aggressive behavior with the potential to cause physical harm towards others, including a forceful action, attitude, or behavior that is expressed physically towards another student.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
|
| 2nd |
|
| 3rd |
|
| 4th+ or more |
|
Intimidation/Threat Toward a Student
Definition: Use of coercion, force, threats, violence, intimidation or similar conduct, that constitutes a threat to another student’s safety or interferes with school purposes.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
|
| 2nd |
|
| 3rd |
|
| 4th+ or more |
|
Fighting
Definition: A physical conflict involving two or more students.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
|
| 2nd |
|
| 3rd |
|
| 4th+ or more |
|
Failure to Leave the Scene of a Fight
Definition: In the event a fight breaks out, students are to move away, from the area of the disturbance immediately. Standing around and not leaving when asked will result in suspension. Also, students who utilize mobile devices to video fights will be subject to disciplinary action.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
|
| 2nd |
|
| 3rd |
|
| 4th+ or more |
|
Physical Injury of a Student
Definition: Causing physical injury to another student. Cases in which physical injury are caused by accident or other action undertaken on the reasonable belief that it was necessary to protect another person or self shall not constitute a violation of this rule.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| 1st |
|
| 2nd |
|
| 3rd |
|
| 4th+ or more |
|
Physical Aggression Toward Staff
Definition: Aggressive behavior with the potential to cause physical harm towards others, including a forceful action, attitude, or behavior that is expressed physically towards a staff member.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| All |
|
Intimidation/Threat Toward Staff
Definition: Use of coercion, force, threats, violence, intimidation or similar conduct that constitutes a threat to a staff member’s safety or interferes with school purposes.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| All |
|
Physical Injury of Staff
Definition: Causing physical injury to a staff member. Cases in which physical injury are caused by accident or other action undertaken on the reasonable belief that it was necessary to protect another person or self shall not constitute a violation of this rule.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| All |
|
Endangering the Lives of Others or Causing Serious Bodily Injury
Definition: Actions causing serious bodily harm or actions that significantly jeopardizes an individual(s) safety or well‐being.
| Violation | Minimum Consequence(s) |
|---|---|
| All |
|
Additional Infractions
Accessory:
Students who cause someone else to commit a violation, help in the commission of a violation, or who encourage, advise, or act with another to commit a violation will be disciplined as though they committed the violation themselves.
Transportation behavior:
While on district‐provided transportation (including, but not limited to a bus or cab), students shall adhere to the same behavior expectations, standards, and consequences as at school. Consequence will be consistent with the violation committed, which may include suspension of riding privileges.
Infractions off school grounds:
Activities that occur outside of the school environment but substantially disturb the school environment are subject to the consequences listed in this matrix.
Other campuses:
Any violation committed by a student on another campus shall be punished in the same manner as if the violation had been committed at the student’s assigned school.