Code of Student Conduct 2022-23

August 2022

Dear Parents/Guardians:

The Charles County Public Schools Code of Student Conduct includes standards of conduct including behavioral expectations expected of all students. The guidelines align with the state’s code of discipline for all public schools and include standards of appropriate student conduct and consequences for violation of the standards.

The guidelines include behavioral expectations, but they also provide prevention, intervention, restorative and incentive-based strategies to respond to student misconduct. The guidelines also contain detailed explanations of specific student behaviors that are not permitted.

The Code of Student Conduct outlines the behaviors we expect to keep your children safe from the moment they step on a bus or walk in the front doors of our schools, until they leave for the day.

Our schools have high standards for school safety. Emergency drills, cameras, school resource officers, check-in procedures, identification badges, staff training and other precautions help us provide safe schools for teaching and learning.

Please read this information, and share and discuss the Code of Student Conduct with your children. Then sign, along with your child, the signature page located at the back of this booklet and return it to your child’s school.

If you have questions, please call your school principal or the Director of Student Services, 301-392-7510.

Thank you for your support of teaching and learning in Charles County Public Schools.

Sincerely,

Maria V. Navarro,
Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools

The Board of Education of Charles County is committed to creating and maintaining excellent schools where teaching and learning occur in a safe, supportive environment. The mission of Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) is to provide an opportunity for all school-aged children to receive an academically challenging, quality education that builds character, equips for leadership, and prepares for life, in an environment that is safe and conducive to learning.

CCPS school discipline policies and the following philosophical principles guide practices:

• CCPS is committed to providing teaching and learning in a safe school environment that maintains the order, safety and discipline necessary for effective learning. There is an expectation that our schools will create environments that are conducive to learning and where positive behavior is expected, modeled and learned.
• CCPS recognizes that creating such an environment requires setting and communicating clear expectations for appropriate behaviors and developing an atmosphere of mutual respect and dignity.
• Behavioral expectations and consequences for misbehavior should be applied fairly and consistently and be developmentally appropriate. The Code of Student Conduct clearly defines reasonable behavioral expectations, holds students accountable for accepting responsibility for practicing acceptable behavior and guides staff in the equitable administration of consequences to all students.
• Appropriate school behavior is the shared responsibility of students, parents and CCPS staff. Disciplinary consequences should be designed to encourage responsible actions, promote the development of self-discipline and change inappropriate behavior. Discipline will be administered using guidelines that include restorative practices, detention, alternative educational settings, student reassignment, suspension and expulsion.
• The Code of Student Conduct encourages the use of discretion in making discipline decisions and uses discipline as a developmental process through multi-tiered systems of supports and interventions. CCPS uses a range of learning strategies and disciplinary responses that support teaching and learning, reward positive behaviors and restore relationships. The goal is to administer discipline in a way that keeps students engaged and connected to school, so they graduate and are college and career ready.

CCPS is committed to educating students in a safe and orderly school environment. We believe students need to have a clear understanding of the expectations held of them. It is important that students:

• work to make school a positive, supportive, safe and welcoming place for others;
• are respectful and courteous to students, parents/guardians and school staff;
• are knowledgeable about discipline policies, regulations and rules;
• follow school rules and policies and contribute to a positive school climate by behaving appropriately in all school settings, both in person and online, and during any after school or evening school activity;
•  make every reasonable effort to participate in any conferences, activities, interventions, or programs recommended appropriately by school staff;
• recognize how their conduct affects other students and school staff and make every reasonable effort to restore relationships affected by their conduct;
• seek access to and complete make-up work while they are out of school;
• share ideas for improving school climate and school discipline practices; and
• are proactive in promoting a positive, supportive, safe and welcoming school environment.

If students become aware of any violation of school or system policies, regulations or rules, they should immediately alert a CCPS staff member. Students who become aware that they have violated a policy, regulation or rule are encouraged to self-report the violation. Self-reporting may minimize or eliminate any disciplinary consequences.

The following is meant to illustrate terms used throughout the Code of Student Conduct.

Academic Dishonesty (Plagiarism, Cheating and/or Copyright Misuse) – Plagiarism is the act of representing another’s ideas, words, expressions, or data in writing or presentation without properly acknowledging the source. Examples include:

• Copying word for word from a printed or electronic source without proper attribution.
• Submitting a purchased or downloaded paper or other materials to satisfy a course requirement.

Cheating includes but is not limited to:

• Copying another student’s work and then submitting it as his or her own work.
• Submitting work through the use of another person’s password/login.
• Posting assignments, work, or projects while using another student’s login.
• Performing work or taking an examination for another student or having another person perform work or take an examination.

Copyright misuse includes the following:

• Illegally posting, distributing, uploading or downloading copyrighted work (such as music, videos, words, images, drawings, pictures, software or otherwise).

Alternative Education – Placement in an alternative setting by the Superintendent or designee.

Behavioral Contract – Correcting inappropriate or disruptive student behavior through a formal plan designed by school staff to offer positive behavioral interventions, strategies and supports.

Behavioral Intervention Plan – Developed from information gathered from a Functional Behavior Assessment, a Behavioral Intervention Plan offers positive behavioral interventions, strategies, and supports designed by school staff to correct inappropriate or disruptive school behavior and to teach appropriate positive behavior.

Bullying, Harassment, and Intimidation – Bullying is unwanted, demeaning behavior among students that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. The behavior is repeated, or is highly likely to be repeated, over time. To be considered bullying, the behavior must be intentional and include: 1) an imbalance of power (students who bully use their physical, emotional, social, or academic power to control, exclude, or harm others), and 2) repetition (bullying behaviors happen more than once or are highly likely to be repeated based on evidence gathered).

Cyberbullying is bullying that takes place over digital devices like cell phones, computers, and tablets. Cyberbullying can occur through texting, apps, or online via social media, forums, or gaming where people can view, participate in, or share content. Cyberbullying includes sending, posting, or sharing negative, harmful, false, or hurtful content about another student. It can include sharing personal or confidential information about someone else causing embarrassment or humiliation.

Harassment includes actual or perceived negative actions that offend, ridicule, or demean another student regarding race, ethnicity, national origin, immigration status, family/parental or marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, religion, ancestry, physical attributes, socioeconomic status, physical or mental ability, or disability.

Intimidation is any communication or action directed against another student that threatens or induces a sense of fear and/or inferiority. Retaliation may be considered a form of intimidation. Code of Student Conduct Page 5

Bus General Misconduct – Inappropriate behavior on the bus, including, but not limited to, eating and drinking, chewing gum, failure to arrive to the bus stop on time, improper seating, touching others, loud talking/screaming/ excessive noises that distract the driver, use of personal electronic devices in a manner which is disruptive or distracting to the bus driver, using profanity or inappropriate language, littering, spitting, and failure to follow bus driver’s/attendant’s instructions when they are issued.

Bus Safety Misconduct – Unsafe behavior on the bus, including, but not limited to, failure to follow health/safety protocols, misuse of bus safety equipment, misuse of windows, misuse of window/door alarms, standing or moving while the bus is moving, throwing objects on the bus, getting on or off at an unauthorized stop, and failure to keep body parts inside of the bus.

Camera/Video/Audio Misuse – Students may not possess or use any cameras or video or audio equipment on school property or at a school-sponsored event, except under the following conditions:

• A student may possess and use the camera or video or audio equipment at the direction of and with direct supervision by a classroom teacher as part of classroom activities;
• A student may possess and use a camera or video or audio equipment if that student receives prior written permission from the school principal for a specific purpose. At no time will permission be granted for socializing or other nonessential purposes, or if the use will violate another individual’s privacy; and
• A student may possess and use a camera or video or audio equipment while attending and not participating in an event held on school grounds after school hours and open to the general public, as long as the possession and use are neither disruptive or in any way unlawful. This privilege may be revoked on a case-by-case basis at any time for any reason by the principal or designee.

Otherwise, cell phones with camera and/or video functions must not be used to record, airdrop or send any image or video at any time, even if the use of the cell phone is permitted. Students may not use any type of camera, video, audio, or computer recording device in any manner that interferes with or is disruptive of the educational process, invades the privacy of any individual, or violates the academic integrity of any school activity, including during any remote/distance learning activities.

Checking in/Check out With a Staff Member– Prompting students to have a brief, informal conversation with an adult at school to monitor behavior at the beginning of the school day, throughout the school day, and/or at the end of the school day.

Classroom-Based Responses – Prompting a student to reflect on personal behavior using restorative practices and classroom strategies such as time-out, teacher-student conference, reflection area, redirection, restorative circles, mindfulness, seat change, call home or loss of classroom privileges.

Community Service – Allowing students to participate in an activity at school that serves and benefits the community (e.g., caring for public spaces or creating posters/signs).

Computer, Technology Misuse – Computer, telecommunications and technology misuse includes, but is not limited to, the following:

1. The unauthorized or illegal use of or access to:
   • computers
   • software
   • the internet
   • telecommunications devices
   • telecommunications systems
   • related technologies CCPS Page 6
2. Any willful act that causes physical, financial, or other harm or otherwise disrupts information technology.
3. Unauthorized use or attempts to use electronic technology to change or alter grades, attendance, any part of any student information record, or the system’s restricted information base or file.
4. Accessing or attempting to access another user’s account.

Conferences – Meetings that may involve the student, parent/guardian(s), teachers, school staff, and/or administrators to discuss the student’s behavior and potential solutions that address social, academic and personal issues related to the behavior.

Conflict Resolution – Using strategies to assist students in taking responsibility for peacefully resolving conflicts. Students, parents/guardians, teachers, staff, and administrators may engage in activities that promote problem-solving skills and techniques, such as conflict and anger management, active listening and effective communication.

Daily Progress Sheet – Using a chart to provide feedback about behavior for reinforcing appropriate behavior and/or correcting inappropriate behavior.

Detention – Requiring a student to report to a designated place before school, during a free period, during lunch, after school, or on the weekend (e.g. Saturday School) for a set period of time.

Excused Absences – Excused reasons for absence include illness of the student, death in the student’s immediate family, court summons, hazardous weather conditions, work (if approved or sponsored by the school), state emergencies, suspension, lack of authorized transportation, observance of religious holidays and other circumstances as determined by school officials.

Expulsion – The exclusion of a student from the student’s regular school program for 45 days or longer, which may occur only under the following circumstances: A. The Superintendent or designated representative has determined that the student’s return to school prior to the completion of the expulsion period would pose an imminent threat of serious harm to other students or staff; B. The Superintendent or designated representative limits the duration of the exclusion to the shortest period practicable; and C. The school system provides the excluded student with comparable educational services and appropriate behavioral support services to promote successful return to the student’s regular academic program.

Extended Suspension – The exclusion of a student from the student’s regular program for a time period between 11 and 45 school days. A conference is scheduled, consistent with state law and Board of Education policy and procedures, and the suspension may be extended for more than 10 days. This extended suspension may occur only under the following circumstances:

1. The Superintendent or designated representative has determined that:
   • The student’s return to school prior to the completion of the suspension period would pose an imminent threat of serious harm to other students and staff; or
   • The student has engaged in chronic and extreme disruption of the educational process that has created a substantial barrier to learning for other students across the school day, and other available and appropriate behavioral and disciplinary interventions have been exhausted;
2. The Superintendent or designated representative limits the duration of the exclusion to the shortest period practicable; and
3. The school system provides the excluded student with comparable educational services and appropriate behavioral support services to promote the successful return to the student’s regular academic program.

Functional Behavioral Assessment – The process of gathering and analyzing information about a student’s behavior and accompanying circumstances in order to determine the purpose or intent of the behavior. This process may be used to assist in developing a Behavioral Intervention Plan to correct inappropriate school behavior.

Fighting – A physical confrontation involving two or more students. A student who willfully engages in a physical confrontation cannot claim self-defense.

Gang Activity – A gang is defined as a group of three or more individuals who associate on a continued basis for the purpose of committing criminal acts. Gang behavior that poses a threat to individual students or groups of students or disrupts the orderly school process is not tolerated by CCPS. Gang colors, gang signs or symbols or gang dress are not allowed on school property or at school-sponsored activities. Individuals may report gang-related activity to schools by completing the Gang-Related Incident Reporting Form which may be found on the school system website, www.ccboe.com.

Health/Mental Health Services – School-based or community-based health or mental health resources which may be utilized to address academic success, behavioral goals and personal challenges.

In-school Removal/Intervention – Removing a student within the school building from the regular education program so that the student is still afforded the opportunity to continue to:

• appropriately progress in the general curriculum;
• receive special education and related services specified on the student’s individualized education plan (IEP), if the student is a student with a disability in accordance with the law;
• receive instruction commensurate with the program afforded to the student in the regular classroom; and
• participate with peers as they would in their current education program to the extent appropriate.

In-school Suspension – Removing a student from his or her education program, but not from the school building, for up to, but not more than, 10 cumulative days in a school year.

Long-term Suspension – Removing a student from school for a time period between four and 10 school days for disciplinary reasons by the school principal.

Look-alike – Any replica or fake item presented in a manner such that another might reasonably believe it to be real.

Loss of Privileges – Revoking a student’s ability to participate in extracurricular activities or school events.

Lunch Bunch – Meeting during lunchtime for a student or group of students for purposes such as mentoring, counseling, goal-setting, or social skills instruction.

Mentoring – Pairing a student with a mentor (e.g., school staff member, fellow student, or community member) who helps with personal, academic and social development.

Minimum Education Services – Suspension days are considered lawful absences, thus students must be given the opportunity to make up missed work and tests. For short-term suspensions, schools shall provide all students with the opportunity to complete the academic work they miss during the suspension period without penalty. In addition, schools shall provide all students who receive short-term suspensions, and their parents /guardians, with the contact information for a school employee who will be responsible for ensuring that these education services are provided.

Students issued a long-term suspension, extended suspension or expulsion, who are not placed in an alternative education program, shall receive daily classwork and assignments from each teacher, which shall be reviewed and corrected by teachers on a weekly basis and returned to the student. Each principal shall assign a school staff person to be the liaison between the teachers and the student and to communicate weekly about classwork assignments and school-related issues by phone or email with those suspended/expelled students and their parents/ guardians.

Off-campus Conduct – Principals are authorized to discipline students enrolled at their schools for off-campus conduct, as well as misconduct via remote or distance learning or occurring at other Charles County public schools, that caused or could cause a disruption to the orderly school environment.

Parent Outreach – Informing parents/guardians of their children’s behavior and seeking their assistance in correcting inappropriate or disruptive behavior.

Parent Shadowing – An alternative to suspension where a parent/guardian must accompany the student to school and follow the student through a full or partial academic day at the direction of school staff. Personal Electronic Devices – Any electronic device that can send, receive or display videos, images, text messages, GPS data, or any other communication in any form including but not limited to cell phones, smart phones, smart watches, location trackers, blue tooth devices.

Peer Mediation – Employing a form of conflict resolution in which students serve as mediators and help their peers address and develop solutions to conflicts.

Questioning of Students – Students may be questioned or asked to provide written statements by school officials at any time without parental permission or participation concerning events that are connected to school. Referral to Law Enforcement – Reporting suspected criminal behavior to the police. The principal may confer with the School Resource Officer upon suspicion of criminal behaviors. The police may decide to file charges against a student for crimes/violations on school property. Each violation is considered and addressed on an individual basis. Restitution – Requiring a student to compensate others for any loss, damage, or injury that has resulted because of a student’s behavior. Compensation may be made monetarily or by a student’s assignment to a school work project, or both.

Restorative Practices – Employing interventions, responses, approaches and practices designed to identify and address the harm caused by an incident, and to develop a plan to heal and correct the situation with the student who caused the harm.

Safe Schools/Reportable Offenses – Temporarily removing a student from the school setting for non-disciplinary reasons to protect the safety and security of staff and other students, under provisions of state law concerning criminal charges brought against the student and reported to the school system. The student may continue to receive education services in an alternative setting or through alternative methods while the criminal charges are pending.

School Activity – Any approved activity sponsored by the Board of Education and/or any approved activity sponsored by any Charles County public school on or off Board of Education property. This includes all approved school and/or system-sponsored trips and activities.

School Day – The regular school day or time is the time extending from the moment the Board of Education assumes responsibility for the student until the end of the school day when that responsibility ceases. This is from the time the student steps on to the bus or arrives on school property at the start of the school day until departure from the bus or school property.

School Property – All real property owned, leased or under the supervision of the Board of Education, including vehicles owned, leased, or contracted by the Board of Education.

Searches of Students – A principal or assistant principal may make a reasonable search of a student on the school premises or on a school-sponsored trip if the searcher has reasonable belief the student has possession of an item that is a criminal offense under Maryland law, a violation of any other state law or a rule or regulation of CCPS. The search shall be made in the presence of a third party. If designated in writing by the principal, a teacher may make a reasonable search of a student on a school-sponsored trip if the same reasonable belief exists. School lockers are considered school property and may be searched by school administrators at any time for any reason. A principal or assistant principal may also make a search of the physical school building at any time for any reason. Dogs trained to detect the presence of drugs, weapons, or other contraband may be used on school property when deemed necessary or appropriate by school officials or law enforcement.

Short-term Suspension – Removing a student from school for a time period up to, but not more than, three school days for disciplinary reasons by the school principal.

Social Skills Instruction – Teaching appropriate interpersonal, self-discipline and problem-solving skills. Staff Member – An individual employed or contracted by Charles County Public Schools to carry out assigned duties and responsibilities.

Student – An individual enrolled with Charles County Public Schools.

Student Support Team – A team of teachers, school staff, parents, and/or administrators which meets to discuss and develop prevention and intervention strategies to improve student outcomes.

Substance Abuse Counseling – Community-based counseling services related to substance abuse. Teen Court – Referring a student to a “court” of peer jurors to resolve conflicts.

Temporary Removal from Class – Removing a student within the school building from the student’s assigned class or program for a brief period of time not to exceed the assigned class or program.

Trauma Informed Schools – All CCPS schools are trauma informed. Being a trauma informed school means that school staff are sensitive to, and inclusive of student wellness as it connects to mental health, behavior, discipline, and connection with the greater school community. Trauma informed schools also take daily steps to identify and help students cope with stress while creating a culturally responsive environment

Weapons – Any implement that could potentially cause injury including, but not limited to, guns, ammunition, knives, razors, lasers, clubs, tear gas, mace, pepper spray, tasers and others.

The use of permanently inoperable rifles by JROTC cadets during instructional time and at other times when under the direct supervision of JROTC instruction shall not be a violation of the Code of Student Conduct.

The use of facsimile, replica, or collector weapons, including starter pistols, by a person engaged in an organized activity for educational purposes, approved in advance by the Superintendent or principal, shall not be a violation of the Code of Student Conduct.

The use of permanently inoperable weapons and look-alike weapons by students during school drama productions and rehearsals under the supervision and direction of school staff shall not be a violation of the Code of Student Conduct if the production and the use of the object are approved in advance by the principal.

CCPS makes every effort to foster and acknowledge positive behavior and prevent student misconduct. Our emphasis is to communicate clear expectations for behavior, create environments that are safe and conducive to learning, and teach and reinforce positive behaviors while keeping students in school. Despite our efforts, there may be times when student behavior necessitates an exclusion from the school environment.

The following is additional information that students and parents/guardians should be familiar with in the event a student is excluded.

Exclusion – Students who receive any exclusion must be informed of the reason(s) for the exclusion and given an opportunity to respond before the exclusion becomes effective. The school principal shall provide the student’s parents/guardians with written notification of the exclusionary action taken by the school. The notice of suspension form and letters to parents concerning disciplinary actions become part of the student’s record.

In-school suspension – After 10 days of cumulative in-school suspension, the student, the student’s parents/guardians and the school administrator shall confer. Provisions will be made for the student’s education during the period of in-school suspension.

Out-of-school suspension and expulsion – Students who receive an out-of-school suspension or expulsion may not be on any school property nor participate in any school activity during the exclusion. Students, the student’s parents/guardians, and the school administrator must meet before the student returns to school following the exclusion in order to plan for the student’s successful re-entry. The Superintendent or designee retains the authority to reassign a student to another CCPS school or program at the end of the exclusion period.

Charles County Public Schools allows the possession and use of cell phones and other personal electronic
devices by students. It is the intent of the Superintendent to ensure that this allowance does not disrupt the learning
environment, after-school activities, or the safe transportation of students. Students are permitted to use cell
phones while attending (but not participating in) general public events that occur after-hours and are open to
the community. The following conditions outline the standard expectations for the possession and/or use of cell
phones by students at school, on the bus or on other school-chartered vehicles.

Elementary School

• Students may only bring their phone or device with approval from the principal.
• Once approved, student must keep their phone or device powered completely off (not on vibrate or silent mode) and inside their book bag, locker or cubby throughout the entirety of each school day, unless other storage arrangements are made with the teacher.
• Once approved for school, students may use their phone or device on the bus or school-chartered vehicle, but use must not be disruptive or cause a distraction to the driver at any time. Sound must only be audible through headphones. Phone conversations are prohibited.

Middle School

• Students may bring their phone or device but once school begins but must keep them powered completely off (not on vibrate or silent mode) and remain in a non-visible, secure location throughout the entirety of each  school day. 
• Students may use their phone or device on the bus or school-charted vehicle, but it must not be disruptive or cause a distraction to the driver at any time. Sound must only be audible through headphones. Phone conversations are prohibited.
• Students may use their phone or device at the end of the school day for the purpose of making transportation arrangements as it relates to after-school activities or events.

High School

• Students may bring their phone or device but once school begins the device must be powered completely off (not on vibrate or silent mode) and must remain in a non-visible, secure location, with the exception of lunchtime or during an approved activity period. 
• Phones and devices may be used during approved times but must not be disruptive or serve any inappropriate purposes; such as loud/explicit music or videos, recording, airdropping, sending or posting inappropriate messages or images (via text or social media), or any type of cyberbullying.
• At the end of the lunch or activity period, all phones and devices must be immediately powered back off and returned to a non-visible, secure location, until the end of the school day.
• Students may use their phone or device at the end of the school day for the purpose of making transportation arrangements as it relates to after-school activities or events.
• Students may use their phone or device on the bus or school-charted vehicle, but it must not be disruptive or cause a distraction to the driver at any time. Sound must only be audible through headphones. Phone conversations are prohibited.

Please note the following additional guidelines governing all school levels:

• Cell phones or personal electronic devices with camera and/or video functions must not be used to take or transmit any image or video at any time, even if the use of the phone or device is otherwise permitted.
• Violations of these expectations will result in consequences as specified in the Levels of Response section of this document.
• The use of a cell phone or personal electronic device to secretly record or intercept a private conversation is a violation of state law. Violations may be reported to the authorities.

Internet Use and Safety

The internet is used to enhance learning and to provide students the use of resources from all over the world.
CCPS tries to prevent students from being exposed to objectionable or offensive materials. Staff does its best to
guide and monitor student use of the internet, but staff cannot be held liable if a student accidentally or willfully
accesses objectionable material.

All students who plan to take advantage of internet connections at school must sign, together with their parents,
the back page of this booklet. Any student not returning a signed form will not be allowed to access the internet
at school.

Internet Use and Safety for All Students

The student will use the internet only for school-related projects and assignments. The student will use all
computer equipment with care and respect. When using computers in school, the student will be respectful of
the computer rights of others. The student will not type or use any inappropriate or unacceptable words on the
computer. Students who encounter any type of inappropriate materials should immediately notify a staff member.

1. Acceptable uses of the internet using school system networks include:
   • searching for information on school-related projects using approved search engines; 
   • downloading information related to schoolwork;
   • communicating via email for school-related purposes.
   • accessing the internet only for school-related activities;
   • remaining responsible for their behavior on the internet just as they are for their behavior in a classroom or on school property;
   • using language acceptable to the workplace and school on the internet;
   • following the same code of conduct as required by CCPS Code of Student Conduct;
   • reporting any harassment encountered on the internet to a teacher; and
   • respecting the privacy of others.
2. Students may not:
   • access social media sites such as Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, etc.; 
   • bully or harass any other individual using electronic communications, either directly or indirectly, on or off school grounds;
   • use offensive, obscene, libelous, disruptive or inflammatory language, pictures or other material on any computer or network;
   • install their personal service provider’s software on school equipment and may not log in to their personal service provider using school equipment including but not limited to virtual private networks (VPN);
   • reveal their own or others home phone numbers, addresses or other personal information;
   • use someone else’s password or account number;
   • copy or download materials in violation of copyright laws;
   • attempt to degrade or disrupt system performance or attempt to enter and/or destroy computer systems and files;
   • repost personal communications without the author’s prior consent;
   • make personal purchases or unauthorized orders using the school system’s name; and
   • download or copy information onto flash drives, hard drives or other peripheral devices or cloud providers without prior teacher approval.

The Charles County public school system, and its employees, agents, and contractors, are not responsible for
the loss, theft, damage, or destruction of any item brought into school, onto school property, to a school activity
or onto a school bus by a student, whether allowed or prohibited.

Bags and backpacks are to be stored in lockers. Students may carry their laptops in a sleeve and may carry a
small hand-sized bag between classes. Backpacks, satchels, fanny packs, large purses or other bags are not allowed
to be carried during the school day.

In alignment with Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) policies, students who are assigned a portable technology
device must adhere to provisions outlined below, and may be fiscally responsible for lost, stolen or damaged
devices. Students are expected to follow all CCPS Code of Student Conduct rules either in person or while
working online or on a device.

Device Ownership

CCPS shall retain title to the equipment at all times, unless otherwise transferred. The student shall hold no
security or ownership interest in the equipment or licenses to installed software. The equipment is a loan and
remains the property of the CCPS. The term of this loan is for the course of the school year or as otherwise designated
by the school administrator. Upon request of an administrator or teacher, students must return the device,
case (if issued) and power cords. The loan is strictly for the use of educational purposes deemed appropriate by
school staff.

Equipment cost includes the following (these are estimates only and subject to change):

• Laptop/Tablet – $370 to $625 (depending on model and replacement cost)
• Case – $26 (if provided)
• Power adapter – $30

Technology Device Care General Rules

• Store the device in a protective sleeve to protect from damage.
• Be responsible for the safe handling, storage, and security of the device.
• Secure the device when not attended.
• Refrain from writing, etching, scratching, marking or applying stickers on the device.
• Refrain from altering any CCPS markings or stickers/labels applied to the device.
• Return the device if it is damaged.
• Do not attempt to repair the device yourself or have it repaired by a contracted computer repair service facility.
• Return the device within four days of any enrollment status change.

Student/Parent Agreement

General:

• We agree to use the device in accordance with all provisions of CCPS policies and Code of Student Conduct a it currently exists and as updated or modified.
• We agree to report any objectionable content to a teacher and/or administrator.
• We understand that CCPS has the ability to monitor CCPS device usage to ensure compliance with CCPS policies.  We have a limited expectation of data privacy while using CCPS technology. CCPS has the right at any time to randomly collect or request a visual inspection of the equipment and to perform periodic inventories, or to review the contents of any message, file, or software stored or maintained on the device.
•  We understand that students are to use only CCPS approved digital tools to safeguard student data from unauthorized access.
• We agree that the device is to be used exclusively by the CCPS employees and the assigned student. Parent(s)/guardian(s) may use the device for purposes of assisting their child with educational studies.
• We agree to obtain consent from participants before taking photos, recording audio or capturing video.

Loss, Damage and Liability:

• In the event the device is damaged due to misuse, accidental care or mishandling, or neglect, and the damage is not covered under warranty, we agree to pay the cost of the repair or replacement of the device’s equivalent replacement including the device and case.
• In the event that we install a program or modify the device in a way which impairs the functionality of the device, we are financially responsible for reimbursing the school system for the monetary cost.
• In the event the device is lost or stolen, we agree to assign all insurance proceeds to CCPS. If the insurance proceeds do not cover the cost of the device and case, we are responsible for paying the difference.
• If the device is lost, stolen or damaged, it is our responsibility to immediately notify the school administration.
• If the device is not returned within four days to the school system upon the teacher or school’s request or when enrollment is terminated for any reason, we agree to pay the cost of a replacement device within 30 calendar days. Furthermore, we understand and accept that CCPS may file a police report for stolen property should we fail to return or pay for the device and related items within 45 calendar days. 

Technology Device Privacy and Safety

Students are expected to take precautions to protect their privacy and security when using an assigned device.

Students:

• Should not open, use, or change computer files that do not belong to the student.
• Should not reveal their full name, phone number, home address, social security number, credit card numbers,
  password(s), or any identifying personal information through use of a technology device.
• Should be aware that storage in any form on the device or network provided or maintained by CCPS is not private
  or confidential.
• Should adhere to the internet use and safety guidelines published in the Code of Student Conduct. 

Content Filtering

All sites used for instruction are evaluated by staff for appropriateness. Families should note that when CCPS
technology devices are connected to a personal home network they are configured to filter the sites students may
visit. Families should discuss the importance of being safe, responsible and respectful online. The filtering used
should not be tampered with or bypassed in any way.

Legal Considerations

Student use of technology devices must comply with trademark and copyright laws and all license agreements.
If you are unsure, ask a teacher, technology staff or the principal.

Students may not plagiarize the work of others and must give credit to all sources used, whether quoted or
summarized. This includes all forms of media on the internet, such as graphics, movies, music and text.

Use or possession of hacking software is strictly prohibited, and violators will be subject to disciplinary action.
Violation of applicable state or federal law will result in criminal prosecution or disciplinary action by CCPS.

Guidelines Governing All CCPS-Owned Technology

• All students are issued a CCPS device or allowed to use technology in the classroom. Students shall comply with the rules specific to that program and/or classroom as defined by the Code of Student Conduct.
• CCPS issued devices must be used in accordance with all policies/rules while on or off CCPS property.
• Students have no expectation of privacy for material stored or sent on school computers, networks or applications.
• Violations of these expectations will result in consequences as specified in the Levels of Response section of this document. 
• Students can be held financially responsible for any damage done to CCPS technology devices and infrastructure.

Suggestive, provocative or excessively tight clothing is not allowed to be worn to school or to school-sponsored
activities. CCPS does not allow clothing to be worn on school property or to school-sponsored activities
which displays messages or images that are offensive, vulgar, harassing, or otherwise inappropriate for the school setting. Clothing that is judged by the school administration to be disruptive to the orderly school process either by virtue of the design or in the manner in which it is worn is also forbidden.

Members of the Charles County Association of Student Councils, in collaboration with parents, staff, and
community members, developed the following system-wide dress code, as amended and approved by the Board
of Education.

1.   Clothing must be suitable for all scheduled classroom activities including physical education, science labs, wood shop, and other activities where unique hazards exist.
2. Shorts and skirts are permitted as long as they reach the middle of the thigh, defined as shoulders relaxed and arms straight down alongside the body where fingertips touch the thigh. Slits in the skirt may not rise more than two inches above fingertips.
3. Clothing must cover the chest area, cleavage, torso, and undergarments. Tops may not be lower than midback.
4. Spaghetti straps and garments that are both strapless and sleeveless are not permitted during the school day.
5. Undergarments must not be visible at any time.
6. Pants must be secured no lower than mid-hip.
7. Ripped pants are permitted as long as rips fall below the shorts length criteria, are limited to the front side of the leg, and do not exceed three inches in diameter above the knee. Skin exposed by all other rips must be covered by opaque clothing that is not underwear.
8. Leggings, biker-type/spandex shorts, or joggers must be opaque and worn with a top that meets the length expectations of shorts and skirts (see #2).
9. Backless and open-toed shoes with a hard sole are permitted as long as the shoes do not pose a safety hazard. Foam and similar soft-soled shoes, such as flip-flops or beach footwear, are prohibited.
10. Headwear is not permitted. This includes, but is not limited to, hats, skull caps, visors, bandannas, sweat bands, shower caps, and hoods. Scarves may be worn as a headband only. (Exceptions may be granted based on religious and medical reasons with proper verification.) Sunglasses are not permitted except during outdoor activities.
11. Sleepwear and sleepwear-type clothing are only permitted for certain activities, such as overnight field trips and spirit days.
12. Clothing that displays or symbolizes any language or material that is inappropriate for school or offensive to any group is not permitted. This includes, but is not limited to, material relating to drugs, alcohol, profanity, obscenity, racism, gang activity and violence.
13. Formal attire must not be disruptive or distracting. Spaghetti straps and strapless formal garments are acceptable as long as adequate coverage is maintained during the activity. Slits in skirts or other garments must meet the expectations for the same in rule #2. Transparent attire is prohibited. Necklines may not fall below mid-sternum. Backless garments are permitted at any formal affair.
14. The dress code is in effect for participating students at all school-sponsored events on and off campus.

Note: Administrators have the flexibility to exercise their judgment to determine if a student’s attire is considered
disruptive, distracting, or a safety hazard. Exceptions may be granted for medical or religious reasons.

An essential element of the education process is the safe and efficient transportation of students as they travel
between home and school. The success of this undertaking relies on the collective responsibility and efforts of
drivers, students, parents, schools, and the transportation department. School bus drivers go through a rigorous driver training and certification process set forth by school system, state, and federal regulations. This driver preparation includes annual training regarding safe driving methods and student behavior management techniques for all drivers provided by CCPS Transportation.

Maryland State Board of Education regulations require school systems to hold two school bus evacuation drills
during the school year. One drill is conducted in the fall and another is conducted in the spring. Bus evacuation
drills teach students how to react in a possible emergency situation.

Prekindergarten and kindergarten students will not be left unattended when dropped off at bus stops. If the
parent or other responsible adult is not present at the drop-off, the driver will return the child to school where
it will be the parent’s responsibility to pick up the child. Adults should plan to be at the bus stop before the bus
arrives. Should this become a continual problem, the student could receive a suspension of bus privileges. The
school office should be notified immediately when an emergency situation arises that prevents the parent or other responsible adult from being at the bus stop.

Student transportation to and from school is a privilege and not a right. The public school system is not required to transport students to and from school, and students may be denied transportation if they violate the rules set forth by the school and the transportation department. Inappropriate behavior on the school bus is considered  serious, unsafe misconduct, as this type of behavior on a bus may have more severe implications. Infractions are handled at the school level.

A student’s bus riding privileges may be suspended for a period of time or for the remainder of the school year.
Any action on a school bus that could result in a suspension from school may also result in a suspension from
the school bus for any amount of time up to and including the remainder of the school year. This may include
any violation of the Code of Student Conduct while on a school bus, such as the possession of a weapon, alcohol, tobacco, or a controlled dangerous substance.

Students suspended from their school bus may not ride any other school bus to or from school while they are
on bus suspension. Parents are notified by school staff if there is a bus infraction and of the disciplinary action
taken. Any student suspended from the bus may be required to attend a re-admit conference with parents and
school officials before being granted school bus riding privileges. The school bus ride is an extension of the school day, and consequences of student misbehavior may result in school disciplinary measures being taken that might include suspension from school.

School Bus Rules

1.   Be courteous and respectful of the driver and all passengers; use no profane or abusive language. Bullying or harassing behaviors are unacceptable.
2. Keep the bus clean. Drinking, eating, or chewing gum on the bus is prohibited.
3. Keep the aisle clear for the safety of everyone on the bus.
4. Enter and leave the bus through the front door. Rear doors are to be opened only for emergencies.
5. Be respectful of all property and avoid accidentally or intentionally damaging or defacing any part of the bus. Any malicious or willful damage to a school bus may result in the immediate suspension of transportation services for the student involved. In addition, the parents and student are responsible for any damages caused by students. Continuation of bus riding privileges will only be considered after consultation with the parent, school administration, and transportation department representatives and a plan for restitution is made.
6. Consider the health and well-being of those on the bus. The action(s) of one student could unintentionally cause harm or discomfort to the driver, attendant, and other passengers. Students must:
   1. Remain seated in the seat assigned until the bus comes to a complete stop.
   2. Keep body parts to yourself and inside the bus at all times.
   3. Never throw objects on or outside of a bus as it could cause injuries or accidents.
   4. Respect the driver and fellow riders.
   5. Be considerate of others; spraying perfume/cologne/deodorant etc. on the bus is prohibited.

Student Responsibilities

• Students should arrive at their assigned bus stop five minutes before the regularly scheduled bus arrival time; any students waiting in vehicles must be out of the vehicle when the bus approaches.
• Students should wait for the school bus in a safe and orderly fashion, well out of the way of traffic.
• All students should wait until the bus has completely stopped and has activated the flashing red lights before moving toward the bus. Students who must cross the roadway should check that the roadway is clear of traffic before moving toward the bus.
• Students should board the bus in a quiet and orderly fashion and should always use the bus handrail and steps in a safe manner.
• Students must follow staff directions in and around the school bus parking lot to ensure safe boarding and unloading. serious, unsafe misconduct, as this type of behavior on a bus may have more severe implications. Infractions are handled at the school level.

A student’s bus riding privileges may be suspended for a period of time or for the remainder of the school year.
Any action on a school bus that could result in a suspension from school may also result in a suspension from
the school bus for any amount of time up to and including the remainder of the school year. This may include
any violation of the Code of Student Conduct while on a school bus, such as the possession of a weapon, alcohol, tobacco, or a controlled dangerous substance.

Students suspended from their school bus may not ride any other school bus to or from school while they are
on bus suspension. Parents are notified by school staff if there is a bus infraction and of the disciplinary action
taken. Any student suspended from the bus may be required to attend a re-admit conference with parents and
school officials before being granted school bus riding privileges. The school bus ride is an extension of the school day, and consequences of student misbehavior may result in school disciplinary measures being taken that might include suspension from school.

While on the Bus

• Students must walk to their assigned seats and be seated as quickly as possible.
• Students must obey the directions of the bus driver and other school staff at all times.
• Students must walk to their assigned seats and be seated as quickly as possible.
• Students must obey the directions of the bus driver and other school staff at all times. • Students must remain in their assigned bus seats, facing forward with feet out of the aisle and hands, arms, and head inside the bus. Changing seats while the bus is in motion is prohibited.
• Students may talk in a normal manner, but loud, profane, obscene, or harassing language is not permitted.
• Students may not throw objects out of bus windows or yell or gesture at individuals outside the bus or in other vehicles.
• Students may not sit in the driver’s seat or tamper with any controls or bus equipment unless a student is directed to do so by the bus driver.

When Unloading from the Bus

• Students must wait until the bus comes to a complete stop before getting out of their seat.
• All headphones, earbuds, AirPods or other ear pieces used to transmit music should be removed while exiting the bus.Students must get off the bus only at their regularly assigned bus stop unless school permission has been previously granted.
• Students should use the handrail near the step to avoid mishaps and accidental tripping when leaving the bus.
• Students should never walk behind the bus to cross the street. Traffic should be checked carefully before crossing the street in front of the bus.
• Students who must cross the road after leaving the bus must do so prior to the bus’s departure from the stop and approximately 10 feet in front of the stopped bus while the bus’s flashing red lights are activated.

What is Permitted on the Bus

Students may transport their book bags or other allowed items on the bus as long as the books and other items:

• can be held on the student’s lap without interfering with other students in the same seat, extending into the aisle or through a window, and extending above the student’s chin; or
• can fit under the student’s seat without blocking or extending into the aisle. At no time may any item be transported if the item negatively affects safety or causes a disruption of the driver’s schedule.

What is NOT Permitted on the Bus

• Glass or other breakable containers;
• Pets or animals, unless approved in advance by the school administration;
• Sharp instruments that could cause damage to the interior of the bus or be considered a weapon;
• Skateboards/scooters;
• Balloons; and
• Any other item, the possession of which violates the Code of Student Conduct.

School Bus Video Surveillance

CCPS reserves the right to videotape students on school buses. This might include both audio and video recording.The use of recording systems helps to deter and investigate inappropriate student behavior, gather information in case of an emergency, and evaluate bus drivers.

Cell Phone/Personal Electronic Devices

See Cell Phone and Personal Electronic Devices section for use on school buses or school-chartered vehicles.

Code of Student Conduct 

The following responses are to be implemented by staff and administrators when students fail to behave in a way that maintains a safe and conducive learning environment. These responses, which may not be available at every school, are guidelines to be implemented in a graduated fashion, emphasizing prevention, intervention, incentive-based strategies, and restorative practices prior to removing a student from a classroom or school. This range of responses was developed so that student discipline may be applied at the lowest level which is commensurate with the student disciplinary infraction.  Persistent violations of the Code of Student Conduct and/or actions that are extremely disruptive and/or pose a threat of serious harm may warrant higher levels of response, even for an initial infraction.  Behavioral infractions listed on the following pages, while not exhaustive, are examples of the types of behavior that the Board of Education considers unacceptable.  Administrators may use responses at lower levels at any time during the intervention process.  It is important to consider many factors in applying disciplinary responses, including the age and developmental level of the student; the intent of the behavior; the student’s disciplinary history; the nature, severity, and impact of the infraction; and local, state, and federal rules and regulations.  The following levels of responses may also apply to the school bus as appropriate.

Key The lowest level of intervention should be used first when appropriate; higher levels of responses should be considered for repeated or more serious offenses	Level 1 Classroom & Support Responses	Level 2 Classroom, Support & Corrective Responses	Level 3 Support, Short-term Removal, & Administrative Responses	Level 4 Support, Out of School Removal Responses	Level 5 Support, Extended Out of School  Removal, Referral Responses
Class Cutting Excused reasons may include: participation in an authorized school activity, administrative, counseling or other authorized meeting, or authorized visit to the health room/lactation space in the school building.	Failing to attend a class without an excused reason
	Persistently failing to attend a scheduled class without excused reasons
	Leaving school grounds without permission
Tardiness Elementary school students who are late should not be given any punitive  or exclusionary  consequences,  but  parent/guardians should be notified.	Arriving late to class or school, without an excused reason
	Persistently arriving late to class or school
Truancy Unlawfully absent from school classes for a school day or a portion of the school day.	Being absent from school or assigned activity without an excused reason
	Persistently being absent from school or assigned activity without an excused reason
Disrespect Disrespect includes all school settings, including virtual.	Making intentional and harmful or offensive gestures, verbal or written comments, or symbols to others (e.g. verbal or intentionally engaging in chronic and extreme disrespect that disrupts the educational process and creates a substantial barrier to learning for other students across the school day
		Being insubordinate: repeatedly or persistently disrespectful, in defiance  of authority
		Intentionally engaging in chronic and extreme disrespect that disrupts the educational process and creates a substantial barrier to learning for other students across the school day
Disruption Disruption of the learning environment includes all school settings, including virtual.	Intentionally engaging in minor behavior that distracts from the learning environment (e.g., talking out of turn, throwing small items, horseplay, misuse of school property, selling of unauthorized items on school property)
	Intentionally and persistently engaging in minor behavior that distracts from the learning environment
	Intentionally engaging in moderate to serious behavior that distracts from teaching and learning and directly affects the safety of others (e.g., throwing harmful items, sending incendiary texts/social media messages, disruption of a fire drill, engaging in extreme or excessive incidents of disrespect)
	Intentionally engaging in chronic and extreme disrespect that disrupts the educational process and creates a substantial barrier to learning for other students across the school day
Dress Code Students may not wear any clothing  which is suggestive,  provocative, or  excessively tight, or which is judged by the school  administration to be  disruptive or distracting  to the learning  environment either by virtue of the design or in the manner in which it is worn.	Violating dress code, after student has been warned
	Persistently arriving late to class or school
Bullying And Harassment Students and parents are encouraged to report bullying and harassment to any teacher or administrator and to fill out a complaint form available at every school, online at  www.ccboe.com, and in this Code of Student Conduct.		Engaging in bullying or harassment,  whether verbal, physical or in writing, including but not limited to cyberbullying, hazing, teasing, and intimidation. Engaging in harassment based on a  student’s membership in a protected class (race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age or disability)
		Engaging in persistent bullying or harassment
Sexual Harassment Students and parents are encouraged to report sexual harassment to any  teacher or administrator and to fill out a complaint form available at every school, online at www.ccboe.com, and in this Code of Student Conduct.		Engaging in sexual harassment (e.g., intentional unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, other intentional inappropriate verbal, written, or physical conduct of a sexual nature)
		Engaging in persistent or extreme sexual harassment
Sexual Activity School staff may refer student to  appropriate counseling and may  contact law enforcement to report any crime that may have occurred.		Engaging in inappropriate behavior of a sexual nature (e.g., excessive public displays of affection, sexual acts, indecent exposure, possessing, distributing or showing pornographic materials, inappropriate texts of a sexual nature)
Sexual Attack School staff should refer student to  appropriate counseling and may  contact law enforcement to report any crime that may have occurred.			Intentionally engaging in behavior toward another that is physically and sexually aggressive
Threat to Adult or Student and/or Extortion Trained school staff should conduct a threat assessment and may contact law enforcement to report any crime that may have occurred.	Expressing-orally, in writing, or by gesture-intent to do physical harm to others
		Engaging in extortion, which is using a threat (without a weapon) to get a person to turn over property
		Engaging in repeated or excessive threats or extortion
False Alarm/Threat of Violence Trained school staff should conduct a threat assessment, refer students to counseling, if appropriate, and may contact law enforcement to report any crime that may have occurred.			Initiating or spreading a warning of a fire or other catastrophe without cause (e.g., pulling a fire alarm or misusing 911 or posting or sharing texts or social media messages or other  communications that incite fear or cause a disruption to school activities)
				Making a bomb threat or threatening a school shooting
Academic Dishonesty  In addition to being disciplined, students may receive consequences related to the coursework, including a failing or reduced grade and  additional assignments.	Plagiarizing, such as by taking someone else’s work or ideas; forgery, such as by falsifying a signature of a teacher or parent, or misrepresenting your identity; accessing sources for an assignment without approval, such as the Internet; using equipment for an assignment without approval, such as a cell phone or computer; cheating; or violating copyright laws.
Theft In addition to being disciplined, the  student may be required to return,  replace, or pay restitution for the item taken, and the school  may  contact law enforcement to report any crime that  may have occurred.	Intentionally taking or attempting to take property without owner’s permission, where the taker is an elementary school student
		Repeatedly taking or attempting to take property without owner’s permission, where the taker is an elementary school student
		Intentionally taking or attempting to take property without owner’s permission, where the taker is a secondary student
Destruction of Property In addition to being disciplined, the student may be required to replace or pay restitution for the item damaged or destroyed, and the school may contact law enforcement to  report any crime that may have occurred.	Intentionally causing damage to school/ other’s property, where the  wrongdoer is an elementary school student
		Intentionally causing damage to school/other’s property, where the wrongdoer is a secondary student.
Destruction of Property In addition to being disciplined, the  student may be required to replace or pay restitution for the item damaged or destroyed, and the school may contact law enforcement to report any crime that may have occurred.	Intentionally causing damage to school/ other’s property, where the wrongdoer is an elementary school student
		Intentionally causing damage to school/other’s property, where the wrongdoer is a secondary student.
Alcohol School should refer student to local  health department or community group for prevention and treatment, and may contact law enforcement to report any crime that may have occurred.			Being under the influence of alcohol
			Using/possessing/purchasing/attempting to purchase alcohol
			Distributing/selling alcohol
Inhalants School should refer student to local  health department or community group for prevention and treatment, and may contact law enforcement to  report any crime that may have occurred.			Being under the influence of inhalants
			Using/possessing/purchasing/attempting to purchase inhalants
			Distributing/selling inhalants
Drugs/Controlled Substances School should refer student to local health department or community group for prevention and treatment, and may contact law enforcement to  report any crime that may have occurred.			Unauthorized using/possessing/purchasing/ attempting to purchase non-illegal drugs (e.g., RX or over the counter medication), look-alike versions of these drugs, or drug paraphernalia
			Being under the influence of illegal drugs
			Using/possessing/purchasing/attempting to purchase illegal drugs, look-alike versions of these drugs, or drug paraphernalia
			Distributing/selling non-illegal or illegal drugs or look-alike versions of these drugs, or drug paraphernalia
Tobacco School should refer student to appropriate tobacco education program.	Using/possessing tobacco/e-cigarettes/tobacco paraphernalia (including matches and lighters), or look-alikes of these items
Fighting Schools may contact law enforcement to report any crime that may have occurred.		Intentionally engaging in a fight, which may be small, spontaneous and short, and/or result only in minor cuts, scrapes, bruises
				Intentionally engaging in a fight, which may be large, pre-planned, extended, and/or resulting in major injuries like a broken limb, or is otherwise especially serious based on the listed factors
Physical Attack Physically pushing, hitting or  otherwise attacking another individual Schools may contact law enforcement to report any crime that may have occurred.		Intentionally shoving, pushing, or otherwise being physically aggressive toward another student
			Intentionally shoving, pushing, or otherwise being physically aggressive toward a staff member or other adult
Serious Bodily Injury School staff may contact law enforcement to report any crime that may have occurred.			Intentionally misbehaving in a way that unintentionally causes serious bodily injury
				Intentionally causing serious bodily harm
Trespassing School staff may contact law enforcement to report any crime that may have occurred.		Being on school property without permission, including while on suspension or expulsion