This year’s student codes of conduct for Flagler Schools include new language to reflect a number of changes in state law and local policy.
Here’s a summary of the major ones:
- A section of text has been added in the section of the document on parents and student rights adding language addressing the “Parents Bill of Rights” approved by the Legislature in its last session. “... Parents have the right to access and review all school records related to the minor child,” the added language states.
- The section addressing criminal investigations at schools has new language stating that a student who commits a misdemeanor will be allowed to receive a civil citation or take part in another pre-arrest diversion program, rather than being expelled or arrested.
- The section on search and seizure adds state-required language that students and staff are entitled to protection from sex discrimination under Title IX, that “substantiated allegations of discrimination will not be tolerated” and that students who allege discrimination by another student can do so via their school’s grievance procedure or complain directly to the Title IX Coordinator.
- The section that notes that schools use video surveillance now also states that schools may use “smart sensors,” stating that the sensors may detect “vape, smoke, THC, abnormal sounds and other safety related issues.” The sensors were piloted at one of the district’s high schools this year and will be expanded to other campuses, said John Fanelli, the districts coordinator of student supports and behavior.
- The threshold for thefts that are defined as a “petty act of misconduct” has increased from $300 to $750. Petty acts of misconduct are not required to be reported to law enforcement.
- A long state-required added section on school discipline addresses drug sales, violence against school staff, bullying and sexual harassment, the making of threats and the bringing of weapons to school, and the potential penalties for those various violations. It requires that parents receive prompt modification of natural emergencies or certain crimes, including homicide, weapon possession or use, and sex offenses.
- Student ID cards will now include the number for statewide crisis and suicide hotlines.
- In accordance with a new state law, school principals must require first-period classroom teachers to set aside 1-2 minutes as a daily moment of silence.
View the changes to the Secondary Student Code of Conduct here, or to the Elementary Student Code of Conduct here.
