Christina Board Will Consider Amendment to Student Code of Conduct for Youngest Students

The Christina Board of Education will consider an amendment to the 2009-2010 Student Code of Conduct at its regular meeting on October 13. The proposed amendment applies to Kindergarten and First Grade students charged with Level III offenses. 

Under the proposed amendment to the Code of Conduct, a separate category addressing Kindergarten and first grade students will be added, with revised consequences for a first or second offense. For example, a Kindergarten or first grade student charged with a Level III offense for the first time would now face 3-5 days out-of-school suspension and referral to school based counseling, but would not be required to be alternatively placed. The recommendation changes the language to read “Possible recommendation for alternative placement.” This change is aligned with the other sections of the Code of Conduct that cover less serious offenses, and which do take into consideration a student’s grade level.

Under the current Code of Conduct, all students regardless of age who commit a Level III offense face the same consequences. These consequences include parent notification, police notification, filing of a Department of Education Conduct Report, 5 days out-of-school suspension, and alternative placement or expulsion. Level III offenses include arson, assault on a staff member, assault on a student, possession of a dangerous instrument, possession of a deadly weapon, distribution of drugs or alcohol, use or possession of drugs or alcohol, offensive touching to staff, rape or attempted rape, robbery, and threat to the orderly school process.

The Christina School District Student Code of Conduct outlines student rights and responsibilities for grades Kindergarten through 12. A copy of the Student Code of Conduct is given to each student upon school entry. Orientation to the Code of Conduct is held in each school at the beginning of the school year. Many offences and their consequences outlined in the Christina Student Code of Conduct have been determined by Delaware State Code.

The Christina School District Student Code of Conduct is intended to promote safe and positive school environments, where student safety is not compromised by others, and learning is not disrupted by inappropriate behavior.