The Massachusetts General Laws require the School Committee to adopt written policies, consistent with applicable laws and regulations related to student discipline, safety, and the welfare of all students, staff, and the school community.
The implementation of the general rules of conduct is the responsibility of the Principal and the professional staff of the building. In order to do this, school personnel shall be familiar with and implement the specific policies and procedures adopted by the School Committee. Building rules shall be consistent with District policies and procedures, and must be compliant with applicable laws and regulations.
The purpose of disciplinary action is to restore acceptable behavior. When disciplinary action is necessary, it shall be administered with fairness and shall relate to the individual needs and the individual circumstances of those involved.
Students violating any of the policies on student conduct and control will be subject to disciplinary action. The degree, frequency, and circumstances surrounding each incident shall determine the method used in enforcing these policies. Most of the situations which require disciplinary action can be resolved within the confines of the classroom by appropriate teacher action and/or by teacher conferences with the student and/or parent/guardian.
If a situation should arise in which there is no applicable written policy, the staff member shall consult with an immediate supervisor, and will be expected to exercise reasonable and professional judgment according to District procedures and the legal references contained in this policy.
APPROVED/UPDATED: June, 1999; August, 2002; June, 2016
LEGAL REF.: M.G.L. 71:37H; 71:37H ½; 71:37H ¾; 71:37L; 76:16; 76:17
603 CMR 53.00