SY24 Code of Conduct: Secondary (6-12)

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 1

Student Code of Conduct

The School District of Palm Beach County, FL

Secondary (6-12) | 2023-2024

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The School Board of Palm Beach County is committed to excellence in

education and preparation of all our students with the knowledge, skills and

ethics required for responsible citizenship and productive employment.

 
 Secondary (6-12)                                                                                                                                   2022-2023                             Page 2             
 
Table of Contents 
 
Guiding Principles  3 
Attendance  6 
Student Dress Codes and Uniforms  9 
Student Conduct and Behavior  11 
Scope of the Student Code of Conduct  14 
Social Media Guide  18 
Discipline Guide  19 
District Imposed Consequences  28 
Authorization for Suspension  29 
Appeal Process for Suspension  30 
Discipline for Students Eligible for Services under the Individuals with Disabilities Act  31 
Discipline for Students Eligible for Services under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973  37 
Good Cause Exemptions to State Statute 1006.15  42 
Glossary  43 
Acronyms  55 
 
 
 
 
   

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 3

Guiding Principles

The School District of Palm Beach County firmly believes a positive school culture promotes equal

educational opportunity and establishes the framework for a safe learning environment. The Student

Code of Conduct is comprised of a set of policies, rules, and laws by which order is established and

maintained for the benefit of all. Discipline within a school must have the qualities of objectivity,

consistency, and equity. It is the responsibility of all school personnel, students, parents, external

stakeholders, and the greater community to ensure the school environment encourages a climate

conducive to learning.

The Student Code of Conduct is intended to be an instructive policy based on interventions and supports

for students. However, when consequences are warranted, they shall be implemented based on a system

of progressive discipline. Minor infractions and first offenses have less serious consequences than major

infractions and repeat offenses. Factors such as age, grade level, social, emotional, and intellectual

development, and overall student rights and responsibilities shall also be considered. Disciplinary issues

will be resolved by every means possible prior to exclusion from school. Equitable and reasonable

procedures will be followed to assure students of their rights.

The School District of Palm Beach County expects all stakeholders to demonstrate mutual respect for the

rights of others. It is expected that all involved in teaching and learning fully accept their responsibilities

to model and practice the Universal Guidelines and Behavioral Expectations: Be Safe, Be Respectful, and

Be Responsible. Each school center shall create its own Universal Guidelines and Behavioral Expectations.

Stakeholders’ responsibilities are outlined below.

Responsibility of Students

▪ Attend school daily, be prepared for class, and complete assignments to the best of their ability

▪ Follow the Student Code of Conduct and school-based rules

▪ Model and practice the expected behaviors and universal guidelines

▪ Notify school staff about any dangerous behavior, bullying, or activity that occurs on school

grounds or off school grounds when it may result in disruption of the educational setting

▪ Accept and respect individual differences and people

▪ Bring only those materials to school that are allowed

▪ Keep parents informed of school related issues

▪ Ask school personnel or other trusted adults for help in solving problems

Responsibility of Parents/Guardians

▪ Read the Student Code of Conduct with your child(ren)

▪ Make certain your child(ren) attends school regularly and on time

▪ Notify the school of absences or tardies in a timely manner

▪ Monitor your child(ren)’s academic and behavioral progress

▪ Talk to your child(ren) about school and behavioral expectations

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 4

▪ Visit your child(ren)’s school as necessary

▪ Play an active role and support your child(ren)’s educational experience

▪ Teach and model for your child to respect the rights and property of others

Responsibility of Teachers

▪ Teach and review the Student Code of Conduct

▪ Use well planned, creative, and engaging instructional plans daily

▪ Set expectations, teach, model, and reinforce positive behavior

▪ Use appropriate classroom management strategies to maintain a learning environment that

supports academic success

▪ Provide students with meaningful and relevant feedback on their behavioral and academic

progress

▪ Maintain a safe and orderly classroom by using prevention and intervention strategies

▪ Provide corrective feedback and re-teach appropriate behaviors when a student demonstrates

misconduct

▪ Use professional judgment to prevent minor incidents from escalating

▪ Keep parents informed of students’ academic progress and behavior through regular

communication

▪ Refer students in need of additional support to Problem Solving/School Based Team

▪ Request additional training and/or staff development as needed

Responsibility of Administrators

▪ Distribute the Student Code of Conduct to school stakeholders

▪ Implement the Student Code of Conduct in a fair and consistent manner

▪ Implement all Palm Beach County School Board policies in a fair and consistent manner

▪ Maintain a safe and orderly school by using prevention and intervention strategies

▪ Provide students will meaningful and relevant positive feedback on their behavioral and academic

progress

▪ Communicate policies, expectations, and concerns and respond to complaints or concerns from

students and parents in a timely manner

▪ Use professional judgment to prevent minor behavioral incidents from escalating

▪ Monitor, support, and sustain the effective implementation and maintenance of Positive Behavior

Support (PBS)

▪ Define, teach, model, reinforce, and support appropriate student behaviors to create positive

school environments

▪ Provide meaningful opportunities for parent participation and involvement

▪ Identify appropriate training and resources as needed to implement positive behavior

interventions and supports

▪ Establish a Threat Assessment Team comprised of persons with expertise in counseling,

instruction, school administration and law enforcement. Their duties include coordination of

resources, assessments and intervention for students whose behavior poses a threat to the

safety of school and /or staff

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 5

Responsibility of Additional School-based Staff

▪ Maintain a safe and orderly school environment by modeling and supporting appropriate

student behaviors

▪ Provide students with meaningful and relevant positive feedback on their behavioral progress

▪ Provide appropriate corrective feedback and re-teach appropriate behaviors when a student

demonstrates misconduct

▪ Monitor, support, and sustain the effective implementation and maintenance of a positive

school culture and learning environment

▪ Use professional judgment to prevent minor incidents from escalating

Responsibility of District Staff

▪ Create and implement policies and procedures that encourage safe and orderly schools for all

students, school staff, and principals

▪ Protect the legal rights of school staff, principals, students and parents

▪ Provide appropriate training and resources to implement positive behavior interventions and

supports at each school

▪ Assist parents who are unable to resolve issues at the school level

▪ Utilize individual school discipline data to identify and allocate professional development services

for school administrators and staff

▪ Review and revise the Student Code of Conduct annually

Stakeholders are collaborative partners in education, and each plays an important role in the commitment

to educating all students to reach their highest potential.

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 6

Attendance

This policy is to encourage regular school attendance and punctuality by establishing requirements for

student attendance, outlining guidelines or procedures for attendance monitoring and reporting, and

establishing procedures supporting chronically absent and habitually truant students as required by

Florida laws, rules, and regulation.

Research indicates that students miss school for many reasons, which can be divided into three broad

categories (The Importance of Being in School: A Report on Absenteeism in the Nation’s Public Schools.

Robert Balfanz & Vaughn Byrnes, John Hopkins University Center for Social Organization of Schools, May

2012):

a. Students who cannot attend school due to illness, family responsibilities, housing instability, the

need to work, or involvement with the juvenile justice system.

b. Students who will not attend school due to bullying, unsafe conditions, harassment, and

embarrassment.

c. Students who do not attend school because they or their parents do not see the value in being

there, they have something else they would rather do, or nothing stops them from skipping

school.

This policy applies to District students enrolled in grades Pre-K to 12

th

grades.

The Board believes that regular and punctual school attendance play important roles in a student’s

achievement, as there is a strong correlation among regular school attendance, academic achievement,

and the completion of school. Although school attendance is the responsibility of the parents or guardians

and students, the District is dedicated to increasing the meaningful involvement of parents and guardians

in all aspects of their students’ lives, including the reduction of chronic absences and truancy.

To combat unexcused absences and truancy, all District schools are dedicated to providing culturally,

linguistically, fair, and age-appropriate interventions. District students shall not be treated differently with

regard to attendance, absence or truancy on the basis of their race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex,

sexual orientation, marital status, age, religion, disability, genetic information, gender identity or

expression.

In accordance with Fla. Stat. § 1003.26, the superintendent is responsible for enforcing school attendance

of all children and youth subject to the compulsory school age in the District’s schools.

a. Attendance, Absence, and Excuse Requirements

i. In General. Except as provided in Fla. Stat. § 1003.24 and State Board of Education Rule

6A-1.09513, all students are expected to attend school regularly and to be on time for

classes in order to benefit from the instructional program and to develop habits of

punctuality, self-discipline, and responsibility. Each student is required to attend classes

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 7

one hundred and eighty (180) days each school year. To be in compliance with these

attendance requirements, students must not accumulate fifteen (15) unexcused absences

in a period of ninety (90) calendar days.

ii. Parental Notification of Absence to School. Parents and guardians are responsible for

notifying the school when a child will be absent and for informing the school of the reason

for the absence. Thus, parent and guardians are expected to notify the school when their

child is absent and inform the school of the reason for the absence within twenty-four

(24) hours by a written note. Otherwise, students returning from an absence shall be

required to present a written explanatory excuse from their parents or guardians stating

the cause for the absence.

iii. Tracking of Absences. The school centers shall track students’ excused and unexcused

absences and attendance in the District’s computer system.

iv. Makeup of Assignments. For excused and unexcused absences, including suspensions,

the student will be afforded the opportunity to make up work without academic penalty.

For in-school suspensions, students will receive assignments daily. For out-of-school

suspensions, students will receive assignments in a timely manner.

a. Excused or Unexcused Absences. The number of days allowed to make up the

work shall be the same as the number of days the students was absent. It is the

student’s responsibility to contact his or her teacher(s) about the makeup

assignments and to complete all makeup work timely.

b. Suspensions. For in-school and out-of-school suspensions, all work is due on the

day of return from the suspension.

v. Reporting on Student Report Cards. Attendance, including absences and tardiness, shall

be reported on student report cards, as required by Fla. Stat. § 1003.33(1)(c) and (2).

Late Arrival and Early Dismissal

The Board recognizes that from time-to-time compelling circumstances require that a student be late to

school or dismissed before the end of the school day. Parents or guardians must follow the same process

to obtain an excuse for tardiness or to obtain permission for early dismissal, as they do to obtain an excuse

for an absence. A pattern of non-attendance for instructional activities is established by tardiness, early

sign-outs, or absences for all or any part of the day.

i. Late Arrivals or Tardiness. Students reporting late to school/class when the day/class period

begins are considered tardy. Excessive tardiness shall be addressed on a case-by-case basis to

determine if there is a pattern of non-attendance. Unless excused under the provisions of this

policy, accumulated tardiness will be recorded as unexcused absences consistent with Fla.

Stat. § 1003.02(1) (b) and this policy. When a secondary student misses fifty (50) percent or

more of the identified instructional class period due to late arrival or tardiness, the student

shall be considered absent.

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 8

ii. Early Dismissal. Excessive early sign-outs will be addressed on a case- by-case basis to

determine if there is a pattern of non-attendance. Unless excused under the provisions of this

policy, accumulated early dismissals will be recorded as unexcused absences consistent with

Fla. Stat. § 1003.02(1)(b) and this policy. When a secondary student misses fifty (50) percent

or more of the identified instructional class period due to early dismissal, the student shall be

considered absent.

iii. Academic Time. Students are not to be sent home or refused admission to school due to

tardiness. Students who arrive late for any class period must be allowed to proceed to their

classes after obtaining proper documentation of their tardiness.

iv. School Rule or Policy. Any school creating a late arrival and/or early dismissal rule or policy

shall submit the proposed school rule or policy to the Area Superintendent for review and

approval prior to the implementation of the rule/policy.

Driving Privileges and Attendance: Report to Department of Highway Safety and Motor

Vehicles

Pursuant to Fla. Stat. §§ 322.091 and 1003.27, the District is required to report to the Florida Department

of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) the names, dates of birth, sex and social security numbers

of students ages 14 - 18 who accumulates fifteen (15) unexcused absences in any consecutive 90-calendar-

day period. Whenever any student has a total of fifteen (15) days of unexcused absence from school

during any semester, the student will be considered habitually absent. The Board authorizes the

superintendent to inform the student and parents/guardians of the record of excessive absences as well

as the District’s intent to notify the DHSMV of the student’s excessive absences

In accordance with law, the District shall hold a hardship hearing upon the request of any student whose

license has been suspended pursuant to this section. The board hereby authorizes the superintendent to

develop procedures for administrative implementation for such hearing, consistent with state laws and

technical assistance from Florida Department of Education. The principal or designee will conduct the

hardship hearing within thirty (30) calendar days of receiving the request in accordance with the

procedures established by the Superintendent.

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 9

Student Dress Codes and Uniforms

It is a fundamental function of the District to create and maintain a positive educational environment by

devoting attention to learning, increasing school safety, encouraging good behavior and discipline, and

minimizing disruptions and distractions. The Board believes that appropriate attire and grooming

contribute to a productive and effective learning environment. Thus, all students are expected to be

groomed and dressed appropriately for age, grade level, school, and school activities.

Student attire or grooming that substantially or potentially disrupts the educational environment or

school program creates a distraction which interferes with the educational process or classroom activity,

or presents a health or safety hazard to the students or school community is not permitted. The

determination of what constitutes a safety or health hazard, or what constitutes a distraction of students

from a classroom activity, or what constitutes a disruption of a school program or excessive maintenance

of school property shall be made by the principal or designee. The principal or designee shall have final

authority to decide if a student’s attire complies with a dress code or uniform dress code, and shall use

reasonable discretion in interpreting and implementing the provisions of this policy. The dress and

uniform codes as described below shall be applicable for the District.

All documents, forms and communications that are provided to parents, must be translated for parents

who speak a language identified as a Major Language in the District. Furthermore, parents who speak

languages other than the identified Major Languages, written translations or oral interpretation will be

provided upon parents' request, or if the need for translation or interpretation becomes apparent.

Section 1001.43(1) (b), Fla. Stat., authorizes the Board to require uniforms to be worn by the student body

or impose other dress-related requirements if the Board finds that these requirements are necessary for

the safety or welfare of the student body or school personnel.

The Board recognizes that individual students have a right to free expression and that right must be

balanced with the Board’s responsibility to provide classrooms and campuses which are safe, secure, and

orderly, and an educational environment which is supportive of the school system’s academic goals and

educational responsibilities. In support of these goals and expectations, the Board establishes the

following dress codes for District students.

Definitions

a. Attire means clothing, headwear, jewelry, book bags, accessories or other articles of

personal appearance.

b. Dress Code means a set of parameters that describes acceptable and unacceptable

student apparel to ensure the health and safety of all students and creates a positive

learning environment; and refers to the District-wide and/or School Specific Dress Codes.

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 10

c. District-Wide Student Dress Code means a set of parameters as determined by the School

Board, that describes acceptable and unacceptable apparel to ensure the health and

safety of all students and creates a positive learning environment.

d. School Specific (Standard) Dress Code means a set of parameters determined by the

immediate school site that describes acceptable and unacceptable student apparel and

appearance, including but not limited to, clothing, makeup, tattoos, and jewelry.

e. Higher Standard (Uniform) Dress Code means distinctive clothing styles and/or specific

colors worn by students as a means of identifying them as members of a school

community and determined by the local school site. Included in the definition of a Higher

Standard (Uniform) Dress Code is the selective dress or standards of a District academy,

magnet, or choice program.

Clothing Assistance

It is a policy of the Board that no student will be denied attendance at school or otherwise denied an

education for failing to wear clothing that complies with the District-wide, a School Specific (Standard), or

a Higher Standard (Uniform) Dress Code, whichever is applicable, if such failure is due to financial

hardship. Each principal and SAC shall develop procedures and criteria to offer assistance to students who

would have or are having difficulty complying with their school’s Higher Standard (Uniform) Dress Code

due to financial hardships. Parents may request such assistance from the principal or designee. The

identity of the family or child shall not be disclosed.

New and Transfer Students

Students entering the Palm Beach County Public School System for the first time during the school year

shall be granted a grace period up to five (5) days before being required to comply with a Higher Standard

(Uniform) Dress Code, unless the school provides the student(s) with clothing to comply with the Higher

Standard (Uniform Dress Code).

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 11

Student Conduct and Behavior

▪ Every student, pre-school through adult, has the right to be educated in a safe, respectful and

welcoming environment. Every educator has the right to teach in an atmosphere free from

disruption and obstacles that impede learning. This will be achieved through the adoption and

implementation of a consistent Student Code of Conduct and through the implementation of a

PBS Plan in all schools.

▪ The PBS Plan emphasizes teaching students to behave in ways that contribute to academic

achievement, school success, and support a school environment where students and school staff

are responsible and respectful.

▪ The PBS Plan will include: teaching school rules, reinforcing appropriate student behavior, using

effective classroom management and positive behavior support strategies by providing early

intervention for misconduct and appropriate use of consequences.

▪ Palm Beach County (PBC) schools are established for the benefit of all students. The educational

purposes of the schools are accomplished best in a positive school climate that teaches, models,

and reinforces student behavior that is socially acceptable and conducive to the learning and

teaching process. There must also be a consistent continuum of consequences for ongoing

student misconduct across PBC schools.

▪ The School Board supports the administrative staff and teachers in taking all necessary and

reasonable steps to implement the Student Code of Conduct and administrative policies to

maintain appropriate student behavior. Important among these policies and directives are those

in the areas of conduct, involving behavioral interventions and supports, enhancing the climate

for learning, and policies governing suspensions and expulsions.

▪ The policies herein serve as the code governing student conduct and discipline and are applicable

to all students. These policies shall constitute the Student Code of Conduct, which are

incorporated as Board policy pursuant to Florida Statute. Copies of these documents are available

in Spanish, Haitian Creole, Portuguese, Q’anjob’al and Mam languages on the District web site, on

file in the Board Minutes Office, the Public Affairs Department, and shall be available at each

school and each Area Superintendent's office.

▪ The School Board recognizes that the Code of Student Conduct must be consistent with the

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act (Section

504). Therefore, students eligible for services under IDEA or Section 504 will be disciplined in

accordance with these acts and are governed by those Student Code of Conduct provisions, which

specify that they apply to students covered under IDEA and 504 students.

▪ The School Board establishes guidelines for the conduct and discipline of students. The

Superintendent shall recommend, based on these policies, a Student Code of Conduct for

adoption by the School Board annually, in accordance with Florida Statute. The Student Code of

Conduct will be available in Spanish, Haitian Creole, Portuguese, Q’anjob’al and Mam to all

elementary or secondary teachers, school personnel, students, and parents or guardians and

discussed at the beginning of every school year.

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 12

▪ The School Board adopts the Student Code of Conduct in accordance with Florida Statute and will

include:

a. Establishing policies and specific grounds for disciplinary action, including in-school

suspension, out-of-school suspension, expulsion, and any other disciplinary action that may

be imposed for the possession or use of alcohol on school property or while attending a school

function or for the illegal use, sale, or possession of controlled substances, as defined in

Chapter 893, F.S.

b. Establishing procedures to be followed for acts requiring discipline and establishing

procedures for the assignment of violent or disruptive students to an alternative educational

program.

c. Defining and explaining the responsibilities and rights of students with regard to attendance

respect for persons and property, knowledge and observation of rules of conduct, the right

to learn, free speech, student publications, assembly, privacy, and participation in school

programs and activities.

▪ These policies recognize that pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 922(q)(1)(I)(2)(A) (The Gun-Free School

Zones Act), “It shall be unlawful for any individual, knowingly, to possess a firearm…at a place that

the individual knows, or has reasonable cause to believe, is a school zone” and 18 U.S.C. §

922(q)(3)(A) “…[I]t shall be unlawful for any person, knowingly or with reckless disregard for the

safety of another, to discharge or attempt to discharge a firearm…at a place that the person knows

is a school zone.”

▪ These policies recognize that pursuant to § 893.13(1)(c), F.S. (The Drug Free School Zone), it shall

be unlawful for any person to sell, manufacture, or deliver, or possess with intent to sell,

manufacture, or deliver a controlled substance in, on, or within one thousand (1,000) feet of the

real property comprising a childcare facility as defined in § 402.302, F.S., or public or private

elementary, middle, or secondary school, between the hours of 6 a.m. and midnight.

▪ In addition, pursuant to Florida Statute 1006.07, notice is provided that:

a. “…[P]ossession of a firearm, a knife, or a weapon, by any student while the student is on

school property or in attendance at a school function is grounds for disciplinary action and

may also result in criminal prosecution."

b. “…[A]ny student who is determined to have brought a firearm…to school, to any school

function, or on to any school-sponsored transportation will be expelled, with or without

continuing educational services, from the student's regular school for a period of not less than

one (1) full year and referred for criminal prosecution.”

c. “…[I]llegal use, possession, or sale of controlled substances, as defined in Chapter 893, any

student while such student is upon school property or in attendance at a school function is

grounds for disciplinary action by the school and may also result in criminal penalties being

imposed.”

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 13

d. “… [V]iolence against any school district personnel by a student is grounds for out-of-school

suspension, expulsion, or imposition of other disciplinary action by the school and may also

result in criminal penalties being imposed.”

e. “… [V]iolation of district school board transportation policies, including disruptive behavior

on a school bus or at a school bus stop, by a student, is grounds for suspension of the student’s

privilege of riding on a school bus and may be grounds for disciplinary action by the school,

and may also result in criminal penalties being imposed.”

f. “… [V]iolation of the district school board's sexual harassment policy by a student is grounds

for in-school suspension, out- of-school suspension, expulsion, or imposition of other

disciplinary action by the school, and may also result in criminal penalties being imposed.”

g. “… [A]ny student who is determined to have made a threat or false report, as defined by §§

790.162 and 790.163, [F.S.], respectively, involving school or school personnel’s property,

school transportation, or a school-sponsored activity will be expelled, with or without

continuing educational services, from the student’s regular school for a period of not less than

1 full year and referred for criminal prosecution.”

▪ To the extent that any definition, recommended disciplinary action or any provision in the policies

serving as the basis for code governing student conduct are contrary to state law or state board

of education rule, the law or state board rule shall control.

▪ Grievance Against Schools

a. Students, parents, or guardians are required to follow the District’s established procedure for

addressing discipline grievances against the school.

b. The Superintendent shall establish procedures by which students and parents may present

discipline grievances to appropriate school authorities.

▪ Each school center shall be required to submit any site level policies (i.e., dress code) to district

staff for review.

▪ Schools shall ensure ELL students and their parents are also provided the opportunity to fully

understand behavior expectations and consequences in a language that they understand.

Furthermore, in working within the Student Code of Conduct, school administration and staff

must be sensitive to cultural differences a student may exhibit.

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 14

Scope of the Student Code of Conduct

The Student Code of Conduct is intended to outline a range of appropriate responses for inappropriate

behaviors:

▪ Poor academic achievement is not an act of misconduct. Therefore, the Student Code of Conduct

must not be used to discipline students for poor academic achievement or failure.

▪ A parent’s failure to appropriately support his/her child’s education cannot be considered

misconduct on the part of the child.

▪ The Student Code of Conduct applies to all students. However, discipline for students with

disabilities shall be administered in accordance with federal and state law.

▪ In working within the Student Code of Conduct, school administration and staff must be sensitive

to cultural differences a student may exhibit.

The Student Code of Conduct applies to actions of students during the time:

▪ Students are waiting for school transportation, being transported to and from school at public

expense.

▪ Students are attending school.

▪ Students are participating in school-sponsored activities, whether in county, out of county, out of

state or out of country

o Prom

o College campus trips

o Grad bash

o Field trip

o Safety Patrol

▪ Commission of off campus conduct which substantially disrupts the school learning environment.

In an effort to fully implement Positive Behavior Support (PBS) and reduce the loss of instructional time

the School District of Palm Beach County expects that each school will utilize a wide variety of corrective

strategies. Teachers must utilize and document a minimum of two research-based interventions prior to

writing and submitting a discipline referral on a minor offense. Some examples are provided below.

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 15

Sample Classroom/ Teacher Interventions and Corrective Strategies Prior to Discipline

Referral

Corrective Strategy

DESCRIPTION

Apology

Restitution

Student makes amends for negative actions by taking responsibility to correct the

problem created by the behavior through verbal or written declaration of remorse.

Check in/Check Out

Daily contact with an assigned adult on campus. Student should see the adult

before school starts each day, as well as at the end of the day.

Conference with

Parent(s)

Teacher communicates with student’s parent(s) by phone, email, written notes, or

in person about the problem.

Conference with Student

Private time with a student to discuss behavior interventions/ solutions. This can

include direct instruction in expected or desirable behaviors.

Corrective Assignment

Restitution

Student completes a task that compensates for the negative action and triggers a

desire not to revisit the negative behavior. (I.e., clean-up, helping another person).

Detention

Required attendance for a monitored period of time, generally an hour after school,

during lunch, or Saturday.

Home/ School Plan

Parent(s) and teacher agree on a consistent approach. The plan should be

consistent with PBS practices, emphasizing teaching and rewarding of appropriate

behaviors and using consistent consequences for problem behaviors. The

home/school plan should be explained to the student by the parent(s) and teacher,

as appropriate.

In-Class

Time Out

Predetermined consequence for breaking classroom rules of short duration (five

minutes or less, usually separated from group, but remains in class) or brief

withdrawal of attention and other reinforcers (a time for student to reflect on his or

her action).

Mentoring

An agreed upon adult or student who provides consistent support, guidance, and

concrete help to a student who is in need of a positive role model.

Out-of-Class

Time out

Student is assigned to another supervised environment for a period of time out (i.e.,

another classroom), slightly longer duration than in-class time out (30 minutes or

less). Student must comply with rules of exclusion time out. Time-out procedure

must be taught to students before implementing.

Privilege Loss

Incentives given for positive behavior are lost, (i.e., five minutes off computer time).

Reflective Assignment

Help student realize why his misbehavior was wrong by asking him/her to compose

a reflective essay

Teach/Reteach Student

Expectations

Teach and model behavioral expectation that students are having difficulty with

adherence

Written Contract

Student, teacher, and parent(s) may formulate a document expressing the student’s

intention to remediate or stop further occurrences of a problem behavior. Written

contract should be positive in tone and it should include incentives but may also

include consequences for misbehavior.

* Any writing assignment or communication to home must be in a language that students and

parents can fully understand.

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 16

Administrative Prevention and Early Intervention

Prior to a student receiving a suspension it is the administrator’s responsibility to ensure that the student

has had two interventions that address the student misbehavior. These interventions must be

DOCUMENTED. Exceptions to this are offenses, which are most serious in nature, and have occurred with

no prior opportunity to provide early interventions.

Corrective Strategies

DESCRIPTION

Behavior Contract

A written/verbal contract or plan for the student with stated goals, objectives,

and outcomes for the student to develop the necessary skills to address the

stated incident

Community Service

Donated service or activity that is performed by student for the benefit of the

public or its institutions.

Conference with Parent(s)

Administrator and teacher communicate with student’s parent(s) by phone,

email, written notes, or person to person about the problem.

Conference with Student

Private time with a student to discuss behavior interventions/solutions. This can

include direct instruction in expected or desirable behaviors.

Daily / Weekly Report

A progress report and/or assignment sheet which gives the student and parent

the opportunity to track the student's academic and behavioral progress in each

of his/her classes for a specified period of time.

Detention

Required attendance for a monitored period of time, generally an hour after

school, during lunch, or Saturday.

Loss of Privileges (during

school hours)

The loss of a privilege(s) during school hours such as assemblies, field trips, and

incentive activities. (The loss of an academic field trip should only occur when

safety is a concern.)

Mentoring

An agreed upon adult or student who provides consistent support, guidance, and

concrete help to a student who is in need of a positive role model.

Parent/Guardian Attends

Class with Child

Parent/Guardian agrees to shadow child and/or attends class with their child at

school for an agreed upon time during the child's school day.

Plan Meeting (IEP, LEP, 504)

Student recommended to the necessary department/group for discussion and

development of a course of action/interventions for the student.

Referral for Admin

Mediation

Referral to Mediation with an Administrator for stated incident.

Referral for Peer Mediation

Referral to Mediation with a Peer for stated incident.

Referral to School Based

Team

The referral to the School Based Team for possible interventions.

Referral to School Guidance

Counseling of the student by the guidance counselor to assist the student in

developing or utilizing the necessary skills to address the stated incident.

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 17

Restorative Justice

A structured process guided by a trained facilitator in which the participants in an

incident examine the intended and unintended impact of their actions and decide

on interpersonal remedies to repair harm and restore relationship.

Schedule Change (change of

regular classes)

A permanent change in the student's regular class schedule.

School Service Work (during

school hours)

Work assistance, provided by the student, to any staff member during school

hours, assistance could include campus or hallway clean-up

Silent Lunch / Lunch

Detention

A separate facility and/or seating arrangement for the student during a regularly

scheduled lunch period. Additionally, the administrator may request some

cafeteria clean-up assistance from the student such as sweeping, wiping tables,

and/or assisting with other clean-up activities.

Temporary Classroom

Change (short-term)

The temporary removal of a student from their regular classroom to a different

classroom. The student will be given the opportunity to complete his or her

regular class work in the alternative setting.

Temporary Removal from

Classroom

The temporary removal of a student from the traditional learning environment to

a separate, individual learning environment for a short period of time

Voluntary Restitution / Self-

Designed Action(s)

Student makes amends for negative actions, taking responsibility to correct the

problem, through a written or verbal apology.

● Any writing assignment or communication to home must be in a language that students and

parents can understand.

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 18

Social Media Guide

Palm Beach County Public Schools realizes that part of 21st century learning is adapting to the changing

methods of communication. The importance of teachers, students and parents engaging, collaborating,

learning, and sharing in these digital environments is a part of 21st century learning. As such,

educational standards are now requiring the use of online educational tools to demonstrate proficiency.

To address related issues, PBCSD has developed guidelines to provide direction for students and the

school district community when participating in online social media activities.

Social Media refers to the use of web-based and mobile technologies that enable all Palm Beach County

Public Schools’ internal and external stakeholders to connect, collaborate, and form virtual communities

via the computer and/or Internet. For some, social media is used mainly for social purposes, but for

others, these sites and technologies are used as tools to teach and to connect with the community.

The First Amendment, in general, protects the rights of individuals to participate in social media.

However, the laws and courts have ruled that schools can discipline students and staff if their speech,

including online postings off campus, materially and substantially disrupts school operations, reasonably

likely causes a material and substantial disruption of the school, constitutes a violation of certain

relevant federal or state laws or School Board policies.

Since social media reaches audiences far beyond the community and can leave lasting impressions,

students must use social sites responsibly and be accountable for their actions. Students should consider

not posting or linking anything to social networking sites that they would not want peers, teachers,

college admissions officers, or future employers to access. Students should be sure to utilize privacy

settings to control access, never share personal information with parties unknown on unsecure sites and

be protective of site passwords.

Misrepresentation of someone else’s identity must also be avoided. Students should remember to be

respectful to others. When responding to someone during a disagreement, be sure that criticism is

constructive and not hurtful. Beware of profane, obscene, or threatening language.

If the use or posting to a social media site creates a substantial and material disruption on a school

campus, regardless of time or location while posting to a social media site, students will be subject to

the behavioral standards set forth in the Student Code of Conduct.

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 19

Discipline Guide

The Discipline Guide is a tool for administrators to respond appropriately when students have committed

discipline infractions, per the Code of Student Conduct. This tool is designed to offer consistency at all

levels across the District so that students are disciplined fairly from school to school when their behavior

requires discipline beyond the classroom.

The Discipline Guide does not apply to classroom management as assigned by the teacher, but rather as

a progressive step when a student has broken the rules requiring a principal and/or his designee to assign

consequences. Certain violations of the rules such as weapon possession, assault, sexual harassment,

require immediate initial administrative action.

The Discipline Guide is designed to assist you and your child in understanding the consequences of

violating school rules. While most parents will have no need to be familiar with the discipline guide, the

School Board and the district want to ensure that parents are knowledgeable about the actions of its

school administrators when students misbehave. The discipline guide enables administrators to assign

consequences consistently, regardless of the school your child attends. When a student has multiple

violations in one incident, such as fighting with a weapon, the administrator will impose the more severe

consequences.

The Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act (SB 7026) requires a mandatory mental

health services referral for students who commit the following infractions: (1) any student who is

determined to have made a threat or false report; (2) brought a firearm or weapon; (3) any person who

makes, posts, or transmits a threat in a writing or other record, including an electronic record, to

conduct a mass shooting or an act of terrorism, in any manner that would allow another person to view

the threat. Additionally, a mental health services referral will be required for any student that is

recommended for expulsion.

Like the Student Code of Conduct, the Discipline Guide is reviewed annually by District stakeholders,

including parents, teachers, administrators, counselors, and other community representatives.

Discipline Referral Incidents in Palm Beach County are classified as Level 1, Level 2, Level 3 or Level 4

infractions. When deciding what disciplinary action should be taken, the Principal or designee shall

consider the student’s age, exceptionality, ELL status, previous conduct, intent, and severity of the

incident.

Administrators are asked to administer discipline in a progressive manner. The underlying principle is to

use the least severe action that is appropriate for the misbehavior. Administrators will increase the

severity of the action if the misbehaviors continue.

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 20

Level One

Behaviors

Level 1 Incidents are acts that disrupt the

orderly operation of the classroom,

school, transportation or extracurricular

activities

LEVEL 1 INCIDENTS

⮚ Tardiness, Habitual*

⮚ Truancy/ unexplained absences*

⮚ Out of Assigned Area

⮚ Leaving School Grounds w/out

permission

⮚ Dress Code Violations

⮚ Public Displays of Affection

⮚ Cheating

⮚ Failure to comply with School

Rules

⮚ Bus Rules Violation

⮚ Computer/Technology Misuse

(Minor)

⮚ Disruptive (Unruly) Behavior or

Play

⮚ Disrespectful Language

Range of

Corrective Strategies

Prior to Administering

Discipline

⮚ Review of Matrix of

Expectations

⮚ Re-teach Behavior

⮚ Coaching

⮚ Reflective

Assignment

⮚ Apology Letter

Range of Discipline Actions

The principal or designee may select at

least one of the following from Level 1

Actions. Principals may authorize use of

Level 2 Actions for repeated, serious, or

habitual Level 1 Incidents.

Administrative Responsibilities

⮚ Parent/Guardian Contacted (M)

⮚ Conference with Student (M)

⮚ For ESE students, refer to page 31

(IDEA process)

LEVEL 1 ACTIONS

⮚ Conference with Parents

⮚ Referred to School Guidance

⮚ Referral for Peer Mediation

⮚ Referral for Administrative

Mediation

⮚ Behavior Contract

⮚ Plan Meeting (IEP, 504, LEP)

⮚ Daily Weekly Report

⮚ Schedule Change

⮚ Parent Guardian attends school

w/student

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 21

⮚ Confrontation

⮚ Lying/Misrepresentation

⮚ Cellular Telephone/Technology

Violation

⮚ Prohibited Items, Unauthorized

Use of Medications

⮚ Unauthorized Sale/Distribution of

Materials

⮚ Inappropriate Activity

⮚ Disobedient/Insubordination

*Referral to School Based Team

Mandatory

⮚ Voluntary Restitution

⮚ Assigned Bus Seat

⮚ Silent Lunch/Lunch Detention

⮚ After School Detention

⮚ Extended or Multiple Detention

⮚ Saturday School Detention

⮚ Confiscation

⮚ Conflict Resolution

⮚ Mentoring

⮚ Referral to Outside Agency

M = Mandatory

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 22

Level Two

Behaviors

Level 2 Incidents are more serious than

Level 1 Incidents. These behaviors

significantly interfere with the learning

process and/or the well-being of others

LEVEL 2 INCIDENTS

⮚ Harassment (non-sexual) *

⮚ Bus Disruption

⮚ Profane or Obscene Language

⮚ Threat, non-criminal *

⮚ Physical Aggression *

⮚ Repetitive Disruptive Behaviors

*

⮚ Repetitive Disobedience

⮚ Bullying/Cyber bullying *

⮚ Hazing *

⮚ Vandalism less than $1000

⮚ Petty Theft or Stealing less than

$750

⮚ Possession of Tobacco Products

Administrative

Responsibilities

⮚ Investigation

⮚ Witness Statements

Range of

Corrective Strategies Prior to

Administering Discipline

⮚ Investigation

⮚ Witness Statements

⮚ Review of Matrix of

Expectations

⮚ Coaching

⮚ Reflective Assignment

⮚ Apology Letter

⮚ Check in-Check Out

⮚ Restorative Justice

Range of Discipline Actions

Where appropriate Principals or

designees should apply discipline in

a progressive manner.

The principal or designee can select

one of the strategies from Level 1, as

well as one action from Level 2.

Administrative Responsibilities

⮚ Parent/Guardian Contacted

(M)

⮚ Conference with Student

(M)

⮚ For ESE students, refer to

page 31 (IDEA process)

LEVEL 2 ACTIONS

⮚ Mediation

⮚ Behavior Contract

⮚ Plan Meeting (IEP, 504,

LEP)

⮚ Daily Weekly Report

⮚ Voluntary Restitution

⮚ Restorative Justice

⮚ Community Service

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 23

(include Vape/ENDS)**

⮚ Un-served Detentions (Regular)

⮚ Un-served Detentions

(Saturday)

⮚ Firecrackers/Poppers *

⮚ Forgery of Document of

Signature

⮚ Gambling *

⮚ Sexual Harassment *

⮚ Possession of Other Instruments

or Objects

⮚ Menacing Statements, Non-

Criminal *

⮚ Severe Inappropriate Activity *

⮚ Cheating Severe

*Referral to School Based Team

Mandatory

⮚ Ripple Effects

⮚ Stay Away Agreement

⮚ Victim Safety Plan

⮚ Loss of Privileges

⮚ Confiscation

⮚ In-School Intervention

⮚ In-School or Virtual

Suspension

⮚ Days Held in Abeyance

⮚ Tobacco Alternative

Program **

⮚ Bus Suspension

⮚ Out of School Suspension

for 1-5 days

** 1

st

Offense – 5 days OSS/3 in

Abeyance with attendance at

Alcohol Tobacco or Other Drugs

(ATOD)

** 2

nd

Offense – 5 days OSS/2 in

Abeyance with attendance at

Alcohol Tobacco or Other Drugs

(ATOD)

*** Further offenses – 10 days OSS

M = Mandatory

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 24

Level Three

Behaviors

Level 3 Incidents are more serious than Level 2

Incidents. These behaviors cause significant

disruptions with the learning process. These

incidents cause health and/or safety concerns,

or damage to school property.

LEVEL 3 INCIDENTS

⮚ Fighting

⮚ Verbal Assault on a Student/Person

⮚ Verbal Assault on School Board

Employee

⮚ Physical Attack

⮚ Extortion/Blackmail/Coercion

⮚ Robbery

⮚ Hazing

⮚ Larceny/Theft, equal to or greater

than $750

⮚ Vandalism equal to or greater than

$1000

⮚ Breaking and Entering/Burglary

⮚ Computer/Technology Misuse

(Major)

⮚ Reckless Vehicle Use

⮚ Motor Vehicle Theft

⮚ Counterfeit or Misrepresented

Document

⮚ Sexual Assault

⮚ Unauthorized use/possession/

storage of Prescription

Medications***

Administrative

Responsibilities

⮚ Investigate (M)

⮚ Witness Statements

(M)

⮚ Notify School Police

(M)

⮚ Referral to School

Based Team (M)

⮚ MHR=Mental Health

Services Referral (M)

Range of Discipline Actions

Principals must select at least one of

the non-mandatory Level 3 Actions.

Administrative Responsibilities

⮚ Parent/Guardian Contacted

(M)

⮚ Student Conference (M)

⮚ For ESE students, refer to

page 31 (IDEA process)

LEVEL 3 ACTIONS

⮚ Confiscation (where

applicable)

⮚ Restorative Justice

⮚ Community Service

⮚ Loss of Extra Curricular

Activities

⮚ In School or Virtual

Suspension

⮚ Days Held in Abeyance

⮚ Suspension from School 1-10

days

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 25

⮚ Use of Intoxicants***

⮚ Alcohol ***

⮚ Drug Paraphernalia ***

⮚ Drugs/Imitation Drugs Represented

as Drugs

(use/possession/storage)***

⮚ Vape/ENDS Paraphernalia

Sale/Distribution (non-drug)

⮚ Threat/Intimidation

⮚ Disruption of a School

⮚ Trespassing

⮚ Inappropriate Lewd, or Obscene Act

⮚ Sexual Misconduct

⮚ Possession of Dangerous Item MHR

⮚ Recommendation for Severe

Incident

Alcohol or Other Drug (AOD) Offenses

*** 1

st

Offense – 10 days OSS/5 in

Abeyance with attendance at District

approved Alcohol or Other Drugs

program

*** Repeated Alcohol or Other Drugs

offense during same calendar year –

REQUIRE a 10 day out-of-school

suspension and Principal can make a

recommendation for Severe Incident.

Principals can request to convene a

Discipline Screening Committee on

any infraction that is unique in

nature.

M= Mandatory

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 26

Level Four

Behavior

These behaviors are the most serious

acts of student misconduct and

threaten life

****MHR for all level 4 incidents.

LEVEL 4 INCIDENTS

⮚ Imminent Threat of Violence,

High Level****

⮚ Attempt a Criminal Act

Against a Person****

⮚ Possession of a Firearm,

Handgun, Rifle, Shotgun****

⮚ Battery on Law Enforcement

Officer****

⮚ Possession, Use, Sale,

Storage or Distribution of an

Explosive Device****

⮚ Sale, Intent to Sell, or

Distribution of Drugs,

Imitation Drugs Represented

as Drugs, or Prescription

Medications****

⮚ Aggravated Assault****

⮚ Battery or Aggravated

Battery on a Student/Person

Administrative

Responsibilities

⮚ Investigate (M)

⮚ Witness Statements

(M)

⮚ Notify Regional Office

(M)

⮚ Notify Safe Schools

(M)

⮚ Notify School Police

(M)

⮚ MHR=Mental Health

Services Referral (M)

⮚ Threat Assessment

Team convene (M)

⮚ For ESE students,

refer to page 31 (IDEA

process)

Discipline Consequences

Principal or designee must use the

following Level 4 Actions

LEVEL 4 ACTIONS

⮚ Parent/Guardian Contacted

(M)

⮚ Student Conference (M)

⮚ Confiscation (if applicable) (M)

⮚ Suspension from School 10

days (M)

⮚ Recommendation for

Expulsion or Severe Incident

Assignment**** (M)

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 27

(Non- School Board

Employee)****

⮚ Armed Robbery****

⮚ Battery or Aggravated

Battery on School Board

Employee****

⮚ Sexual Battery ****

⮚ Kidnapping or

Abduction****

⮚ Arson****

⮚ Bomb Threat****

⮚ Post/Transmit a Threat of

Mass Shooting or

Terrorism****

⮚ Homicide****

⮚ Weapons****

Principals can request to convene a

Discipline Screening Committee on

any infraction that is unique in nature.

M= Mandatory

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 28

District Imposed Consequences

Consequences that schools can recommend but only District staff can impose.

Alternative Placement Pending Expulsion

The District will assign students to an alternative education site pending the outcome of a Discipline

Review Committee

Assignment to Special Program/ Alternative School/ Alternative Program (District-placed)

The District will place students at an alternative education site for a specified period of time. (Pursuant

to School Board Policy 8.13)

Criminal Youth Diversion

The District will work in collaboration with the Department of Juvenile Justice to recommend students

who commit a criminal offense to be allowed to participate in a civil citation or similar pre-arrest diversion

program.

Expulsion

The removal of the right and obligation of a student to attend a public school under conditions set by the

District School Board and for a period of time not to exceed the remainder of the term or school year and

1 additional year of attendance. Expulsions may be imposed with or without continuing educational

services and shall be reported accordingly. F. S. § 1003.01(6) (Pursuant to School Board Policy 5.18175)

Felony Suspension Incident

This incident code should be used for a student who has been felony suspended per F.S. § 1006.09(2) and

SBER 6A-1.0956 and is assigned to an alternative education program until the student is adjudicated. If

the student is adjudicated guilty, the principal may recommend expulsion. (Pursuant to School Board

Policy

Honoring an Expulsion from another District

The School District of Palm Beach County will honor the expulsion from another school district if it is an

expellable offense in Palm Beach County.

IAES

Interim Alternative Educational Setting for an ESE student for up to forty-five (45) calendar days without

parental consent for:

a. Possession of dangerous weapons in school or at school functions; or

b. Possession, use, sale or solicitation or a controlled substance while at school or at a

school function; or

c. Serious Bodily Harm.

Long-Term Suspension (District approved and entered)

F.S. § 1006.09(1) (b) permits the Superintendent to extend a suspension beyond ten (10) school days if

the student is being recommended for expulsion.

Refer to Courts or Juvenile Authorities

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 29

The District can refer students through some type of action for any reason either to the courts or juvenile

authorities.

Virtual Suspension

If the District utilizes Distance Learning for any reason, the District will utilize “Virtual Suspensions”

for students who commit a Student Code of Conduct infraction that results in a suspension.

Authorization for Suspension

Suspension of a student from school for committing any of the infractions warranting suspension under

the Palm Beach County Student Code of Conduct shall be employed only if the offense is related to school

activity or school attendance.

These offenses may occur at any time, including, but not limited to, while on school grounds; while

utilizing school transportation; or during a school-sponsored activity. Bus suspensions can also be

warranted for infractions that occur on school transportation vehicles.

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 30

Whenever a student has been suspended during a school year for fifteen (15) cumulative school days, the

appropriate Regional/Instructional Superintendent’s Office shall be notified, and the student referred to

the School Based Team for necessary discussion and possible interventions.

Informal suspension (i.e., a parent is told to keep a child at home under the supervision of the parent, or

a student is sent home without benefit of a conference and of official documentation) is a violation of

Florida’s compulsory attendance laws, the Individual’s with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and District

policy. It is prohibited.

Appeal Process for Suspension

The principal is to advise parents or guardians, in their native language, of the appeal procedures for an

out-of-school suspension. The appeal must first be made to the school principal. A decision by the school

principal must be made within 24 hours of receipt of the appeal. If the parents do not agree with the

principal’s decision, they may appeal to the Regional/Instructional Superintendent or designee. The

conference shall be arranged as soon as possible following the parents’ request; during the period of

appeal, the suspension remains in effect for the length of time designated.

The results of the appeal may include, but are not limited to:

1. Sustaining the suspension in all respects.

2. Modification of penalties imposed.

3. Rescinding the suspension and expunging the suspension from the student’s records.

The parents shall be notified of the appeal decision.

Note: If the student is recommended for expulsion or severe incident assignment, the appeal will be heard

by the Discipline Review Committee instead of the Region.

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 31

Discipline for Students Eligible for

Services under the Individuals with

Disabilities Act

1. Statutes and Rules

a. The discipline of all students with disabilities (“ESE”) is governed by federal statutes and

regulations under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (“IDEA”) as well as Florida

Statutes and State Board of Education Rules.

b. If the district knows or should know that a student may be eligible for special education and

related services, but has not yet determined such eligibility, that student may assert all or any

of the protections stated within this policy.

2. Suspension

a. Suspension is the temporary removal of a student from all classes of instruction on public

school grounds and all other school-sponsored activities, for a period not to exceed ten

(10) cumulative school days per year. Any removal from school, even if the necessary

paperwork for a formal suspension is not initiated or completed, counts toward the 10-

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 32

day rule. All days a student with a disability spends out of school as a result of school

action, whether formal or informal, apply towards the 10-day limit.

b. A principal/designee may remove a student eligible for services under the IDEA for up to

ten (10) cumulative school days per calendar year for disciplinary infraction(s).

c. Prior to consideration of suspension, the school must have made and documented

reasonable attempts to use less restrictive alternatives and/or interventions to decrease

the inappropriate behavior.

d. Educational services may be provided during the ten (10) days, but are not required.

e. If an ESE student is arrested on campus and suspended those days count towards the

cumulative ten (10) days allowed each year school year.

f. The IEP team must meet no later than the tenth (10

th

) day of the cumulative suspension

to:

i. Determine if the student’s behavior is a manifestation of the student’s disability.

ii. Initiate an FBA or review the student’s current FBA and behavior intervention

plan.

iii. If the behavior is a manifestation of the disability, review the student’s IEP.

g. The Manifestation Determination Review (MDR) must be conducted at the IEP meeting.

i. When making a manifestation determination, the district, parent, and relevant

members of the Team shall review and take into consideration the student’s

present program and case history, including all relevant information in the

student’s file, the student’s accommodation plan, any teacher observations, and

any relevant information provided by the parents.

ii. The team shall then determine: (a) If the conduct in question was caused by, or

had a direct and substantial relationship to, the student’s disability; or (b) If the

conduct in question was the direct result of failure to implement the IEP. A

consensus of the members of the team shall make these determinations and such

determination will be based upon the information reviewed by the Team. If either

(a) or (b) is applicable the conduct shall be determined to be a manifestation of

the student’s disability.

h. The student’s custodial parent/guardian must be invited to participate as a member of

this IEP Team and the principal/designee must take reasonable steps to ensure that one

or both of the parents of a child with a disability are present at the meeting or are afforded

the opportunity to participate, including scheduling the meeting at a mutually agreed on

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 33

time and place. If neither parent can attend an IEP Team meeting, the principal/designee

shall use other methods to ensure parent participation, including individual or conference

telephone calls. The custodial parent/guardian must be provided with a copy of

procedural safeguards.

i. A school cannot make a parent conference mandatory prior to the ESE student being

returned to campus after suspension. A conference may be suggested, but the student

maintains the right of access to education under the IDEA after ten (10) cumulative days

per school year, even if the parent does not attend the conference.

j. If the student’s behavior is a manifestation of the student's disability, the IEP Team shall

conduct a functional behavioral assessment and implement a behavior support plan,

which includes the provision of Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports, if such

assessment for conduct was not completed prior to the behavior. If a behavior support

plan has been developed, the committee shall review the IEP, modify it, as necessary, to

address the behavior and include the provision of Positive Behavior Interventions and

Supports, and return the student to the placement from which he or she was removed.

Nothing herein shall be construed as preventing the team from proposing another

placement, so long as the placement is appropriate and in the least restrictive

environment.

k. If the IEP Team determines that the student’s behavior is not a manifestation, then the

student may be suspended from school in the same manner students not eligible for

services under the IDEA. Nevertheless, such student shall continue to receive educational

services, so as to enable the child to continue to participate in the general education

curriculum, although in another setting, and to progress toward meeting the goals set out

in the student’s IEP, and receive, as appropriate, a functional behavioral If assessment,

behavioral intervention services and modifications, that are designed to address the

behavior violation so that it does not recur.

3. Bus Suspension. Suspension of ESE students from the bus must be counted as part of the

cumulative ten (10) days if transportation is needed for the student to access FAPE and an

alternative means of arriving to school is not available.

4. In-School Suspension

a. In-school suspension is the temporary removal of a student from the student’s regular

school program and placement in an alternative program, such as that provided Florida

Statute, under supervision of district personnel, not to exceed ten (10) school days.

b. A student’s IEP must continue to be delivered while assigned to in-school suspension.

c. Repeated removals of a student from the regular/ESE classroom to an in-school

suspension are prohibited.

5. Expulsion

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 34

a. Expulsion is the removal of the right and obligation of a student to attend a public school

under conditions set by the board, for a period not to exceed the remainder of the term or

school year and one additional year of attendance.

b. Expulsion cannot be considered for students eligible for services under the IDEA because it

would constitute a cessation of educational services for that period of time.

6. Exclusion

a. An ESE exclusion is the removal of the right and obligation of a student to attend a public

school under conditions set by the board, and for a period not to exceed the remainder of the

term or school year and one additional year of attendance, provided however, that

appropriate educational services developed through an Individual Education Plan (“IEP”) will

continue to be provided through some alternative means.

b. The educational services must enable the child to continue to participate in the general

education curriculum, although in another setting, and to make reasonable progress toward

meeting the goals set out in the child’s IEP, and include, as appropriate, a functional

behavioral assessment, behavioral intervention services modifications, that are designed to

address the behavior that gave rise to the violation so that it does not recur.

7. A Manifestation Determination Review (MDR)

a. MDR is a process by which parents and the school meet to determine if the student is

being subjected to a disciplinary change in placement for behavior that is a manifestation

of his or her disability. Whenever a student with a disability is subjected to a disciplinary

change of placement (e.g., suspension or expulsion), the school district must conduct an

MDR within 10 days of the decision to remove the student from school.

b. If prior to a manifestation determination meeting, the Team determines that an FBA is

needed for a student with a disability, the Team will promptly commence the FBA and

postpone the student’s discipline until the FBA is completed. The Team will consider the

data gathered from the FBA in determining whether the student’s behavior is/was a

manifestation of the disability.

8. Disciplinary Action for Drugs and Weapons

A student with a disability may be placed in an Interim Alternative Educational Setting (“IAES for

up to forty-five (45) calendar days without parental consent for:

Possession of dangerous weapons in school or at school functions; or

Possession, use, sale or solicitation or a controlled substance while at school or at a school

Function; or

Causing serious bodily injury

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 35

A dangerous weapon is defined as a weapon, device, instrument, material or substance, animate

or inanimate, that is used for, or is readily capable of, causing death or serious bodily injury, except

that such item does not include a pocketknife with a blade of less than two and one-half inches

(2-½”) in length.

Serious Bodily Injury is defined as bodily injury that involves a substantial risk of death; extreme

physical pain; protracted and obvious disfigurement; or protracted loss or impairment of the

function of a bodily member, organ, or mental faculty. Incidents where injury occurred, but first

aid or medical attention is not needed, are not required to be reported in SESIR as Injury-related.

9. Interim Alternative Educational Setting (“IAES”) Placement is a very restrictive placement which

is permitted if the circumstances set for in paragraph 5(a) above exist:

a. Placement in an IAES may occur pursuant to paragraph 5(a) above whether the behavior

is or is not a manifestation of the student’s disability.

b. Under the circumstances set forth in paragraph 5(a) above, placement in an IAES may

occur at the request of the principal.

c. An IEP meeting must be scheduled within the first ten (10) days of placement. The

principal/designee will take reasonable steps to ensure that one or both of the parents of

a child with a disability are present at the meeting or are afforded the opportunity to

participate, including scheduling the meeting at a mutually agreed on time and place. If

neither parent can attend an IEP Team meeting, the principal/designee shall use other

methods to ensure parent participation, including individual or conference telephone

calls.

d. A meeting may be conducted without a parent in attendance if the principal/designee is

unable to convince the parents that they should attend. In this case, the district will keep

a record of its attempts to arrange a mutually agreed on time and place.

e. The custodial parent/guardian must be provided a copy of their procedural safeguards.

f. An MDR must be conducted at the IEP meeting.

g. When making a manifestation determination, the district, parent, and relevant members

of the Team shall review and take into consideration the student’s present program and

case history, including all relevant information in the student’s file, the student’s

accommodation plan, any teacher observations, and any relevant information provided

by the parents.

i. If prior to a manifestation determination meeting, the Team determines that an

FBA is needed for a student with a disability, the Team will promptly commence

the FBA and postpone the student’s discipline until the FBA is completed. The

Team will consider the data gathered from the FBA in determining whether the

student’s behavior is/was a manifestation of the disability.

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 36

h. The team shall then determine: (a) If the conduct in question was caused by, or had a

direct and substantial relationship to, the student’s disability; or (b) If the conduct in

question was the direct result of failure to implement the IEP. A consensus of the

members of the team shall make these determinations and such determination will be

based upon the information reviewed by the Team. If either (a) or (b) is applicable the

conduct shall be determined to be a manifestation of the student’s disability.

i. A Functional Behavioral Assessment (“FBA”) must be initiated within ten (10) days of

placement. Staff from both the student’s current and previous schools will participate in

the FBA.

j. A Behavior Intervention Plan (“BIP”) must be developed immediately upon completion of

the FBA.

k. Educational services to be determined within ten (10) days of placement must:

i. Enable the student to appropriately progress in the general curriculum;

ii. Enable the student to appropriately advance towards IEP goals; and

iii. Include, as appropriate, a functional behavioral assessment, behavioral

intervention services, and modifications that are designed to address the

behavior that gave rise to the violation so that it does not recur.

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 37

Discipline for Students Eligible for

Services under Section 504 of the

Rehabilitation Act of 1973

1. This Policy for discipline of students eligible for services under Section 504 is designed to comply

with State Board of Education Rule 6A-6.0331(8), the Section 504 Regulations at 34 C.F.R. Part

104, and 29 U.S.C. § 794 (“Section 504”). The phrase “eligible for services under Section 504”

refers to students with active Section 504 accommodation plans and students with disabilities

who require Section 504 plans. However, for purposes of this policy, if the student’s sole

impairment is drug or alcohol dependence, the student is not eligible for protection under Section

504 or the ADA if the student is currently a user of illegal drugs or alcohol. Such students may be

disciplined in the same manner as other students for use or possession of illegal drugs or alcohol

under Policies 5.1812 or 5.1813 [and Policy 5.1815] and will receive the same due process and

substance-abuse assistance as other students under those Policies.

2. Definitions. The words suspension and expulsion of students eligible for services under Section

504 shall have the following meanings through this policy:

a. Suspension. Pursuant to Fla. Stat. § 1003.01(5) (a) [and Policy 5.1815], suspension, also

referred to as out-of-school suspension, is defined as the temporary removal of a student

from all classes of instruction on public school grounds, except as authorized by the

principal/designee, for a period up to ten (10) cumulative school days and remanding of

the student to the custody of the student’s custodial parent with specific homework

assignments for the student to complete. Any removal from school, even if the necessary

paperwork for a formal suspension is not initiated or completed, counts toward the 10-

day rule. All days a student with a disability spends out of school as a result of school

action, whether formal or informal, apply toward the 10-day limit.

b. Expulsion. As defined in Fla. Stat. § 1003.01(6), and Policy 5.1817, expulsion is the

removal of the right and obligation of a student to attend a public school under conditions

set by the Board, and for a period of time not to exceed the remainder of the term or

school year and one (1) additional year of attendance. Expulsions may be imposed with

or without continuing educational services (subject to Section (4) (f) below) and shall be

reported accordingly.

c. Re-evaluation. Students with active Section 504 accommodation plans who are

recommended for suspension in excess of ten (10) days, or expulsion, must have a re-

evaluation prior to a significant change in placement, as required by 34 C.F.R. § 104.35(d).

Students with disabilities, suspected of being eligible for services under Section 504, who

are recommended for suspension in excess of ten (10) days, or expulsion, must be

evaluated prior to a significant change in placement, as required by 34 C.F.R. § 104.35(b).

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 38

3. Suspension of Students under Section 504/ADA. Unless otherwise indicated by their

accommodation plans, students eligible for services under Section 504 are expected to follow the

rules of the student conduct code. Students who are eligible for services under Section 504/ADA

may be suspended for infractions as defined for all students pursuant to Policies 5.1812 or 5.1813

[and Policy 5.1815], with the following limitations:

a. Suspension for Ten (10) Cumulative Days or Less. Unless otherwise indicated by their

accommodation plans, student suspension procedures [in Policy 5.1815] will be followed

for students who are eligible for services under Section 504/ADA and recommended for

suspension for ten (10) cumulative days or less.

b. Any Suspension beyond Ten (10) Cumulative Days. No student who is eligible for services

under Section 504/ADA shall be suspended beyond ten (10) cumulative days per school

year, except through the following procedure. It is the responsibility of the

principal/designee to monitor all serial/cumulative suspensions. NOTE: If a student has

been referred for ESE evaluation prior to or during the Section 504 manifestation

determination, the student is then protected under the IDEA for discipline provisions.

Therefore, the manifestation team must treat the student as an ESE student. The

principal/designee shall notify the 504 Multi-Disciplinary Team immediately when a

student who is or may be eligible for services under Section 504/ADA violates the student

conduct code and will be considered for suspension for more than ten (10) cumulative

days per school year.

i. Within twenty-four (24) hours of the recommendation for the extended

suspension, the principal/designee shall provide written notice to the custodial

parent/guardian and the student of the proposed suspension, alleged

misconduct, and time and date of the scheduled 504 Multi-Disciplinary Team

meeting. Notification of purpose, participants and location of the meeting will be

included. The custodial parent/guardian shall also be notified that the 504 Multi-

Disciplinary Team will also serve as a 504-plan team and may change the student’s

Section 504 plan. The custodial parent/guardian shall be given a copy of the

Section 504/ADA Procedural Safeguards.

ii. The principal/designee will take reasonable steps to ensure that one or both of

the parents of a child with a disability are present at the meeting or are afforded

the opportunity to participate, including scheduling the meeting at a mutually

agreed on time and place. If neither parent can attend an IEP Team meeting, the

principal/designee shall use other methods to ensure parent participation,

including individual or conference telephone calls.

iii. Conducting a meeting without a parent in attendance. A meeting may be

conducted without a parent in attendance if the principal/designee is unable to

convince the parents that they should attend. In this case, the district will keep a

record of its attempts to arrange a mutually agreed on time and place.

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 39

iv. The notice and copy of Section 504/ADA Procedural Safeguards shall be delivered

by registered or certified mail (return receipt requested) or personally delivered

by the principal/ designee at least twenty-four (24) hours prior to the meeting. A

signed receipt of delivery must be obtained.

v. Before the student can be removed from the campus for the suspension

recommendation, the principal/designee will arrange a 504 Multi-Disciplinary

Team review of the incident that was the basis for the recommendation for

suspension.

vi. Members of the Committee must include the following personnel:

1. A school psychologist as the person knowledgeable of the evaluation

procedures pursuant to the disability.

2. If the disability of record is a medical disability, the school nurse should

be present to consult with the psychologist.

3. A teacher, counselor, or appropriate person knowledgeable of the

student.

4. An administrator (not the recommending administrator) as the person

who is knowledgeable of the suspension/expulsion process.

vii. The 504 Multi-Disciplinary Team will review the case and determine whether the

student’s conduct was or was not a manifestation

1

of the disability for which the

student has a Section 504 plan. A Manifestation Determination Review (MDR) is

a process by which parents and the school meet to determine if the student is

being subjected to a disciplinary change in placement for behavior that is a

manifestation of his or her disability. Whenever a student with a disability is

subjected to a disciplinary change of placement (e.g., suspension or expulsion),

the school district must conduct an MDR within 10 days of the decision to remove

the student from school.

viii. When making a manifestation determination, the district, parent, and relevant

members of the Team shall review and take student’s accommodation plan, any

teacher observations, past disciplinary referrals/infractions and any relevant

information provided by the parents.

ix. The team shall then determine: (a) if the conduct in question was caused by, or

had a direct and substantial relationship to, the student’s disability; or (b) if the

conduct in question was the direct result of failure to implement the Section 504

Accommodation Plan. A consensus of the members of the team shall make this

1

Manifestation of the Disability: A manifestation of the disability is the exhibition of behaviors which are considered

to be a component of the individual student’s disability.

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 40

determination and such determination will be based upon the information

reviewed by the Team. If either (a) or (b) is applicable the conduct shall be

determined to be a manifestation of the student’s disability.

x. "PBSD 2209 the Manifestation of Disability Determination Process for Students

with Section 504 Plans"

i. If prior to a manifestation determination meeting, the Team determines

that an FBA is needed for a student with a disability, the Team will promptly

commence the FBA and postpone the student’s discipline until the FBA is

completed. The Team will consider the data gathered from the FBA in

determining whether the student’s behavior is/was a manifestation of the

disability.

xi. If the 504 Multi-Disciplinary Team determines that the student’s behavior is not

a manifestation, then the student may be suspended from school in the same

manner students not eligible for services under Section 504. Nevertheless, such

student shall continue to receive education services, so as to enable the child to

continue to participate in the general education curriculum, although in another

setting, and to progress toward meeting the goals set out in the student’s Section

504 accommodation plan, and receive, as appropriate, a functional behavioral

assessment, behavioral intervention services and modifications, that are

designed to address the behavior violation so that it does not recur.

xii. If it is determined that the student’s behavior is a manifestation of the student’s

disability, the Multi-Disciplinary Team shall conduct a functional behavioral

assessment and implement a behavior intervention plan, which includes the

provision of Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports, if such assessment for

conduct was not completed prior to the behavior. If a behavior support plan has

been developed, the committee shall review the plan, modify it, as necessary, to

address the behavior and include the provision of Positive Behavior Interventions

and Supports, and return the student to the placement from which he or she was

removed. Nothing herein shall be construed as preventing the team from

proposing another placement, so long as the placement is appropriate and in the

least restrictive environment.

4. Expulsion of Students under Section 504/ADA

a. Students eligible for services under Section 504/ADA may be recommended for expulsion

as defined for all students.

b. The principal/designee shall notify the 504 Multi-Disciplinary Team immediately when a

student with a Section 504 plan is being recommended for expulsion.

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 41

c. In addition to procedures under Policy 5.1817, within twenty-four (24) hours of the

recommendation for expulsion, the principal/designee shall provide written notice to the

custodial parent/guardian and the student of the proposed expulsion and the date and

time of the scheduled 504 Multi-Disciplinary Team meeting to determine manifestation

of disability. The procedures for conducting a MDR and for ensuring parental participation

shall apply to proposals for expulsions.

d. The notice, procedural safeguards, and a copy of this Policy shall be delivered by certified

mail (return receipt requested) or the principal/designee shall personally deliver it and

obtain a signed receipt.

e. If it is determined that the misconduct is not a manifestation of the student’s disability,

the student may be expelled in the same manner as students not eligible for services

under Section 504. Nevertheless, such student shall continue to receive educational

services, so as to enable the student to continue to participate in the general education

curriculum, although in another setting, and to progress toward meeting the goals set out

in the student’s Section 504 accommodation plan, and receive, as appropriate, a

functional behavioral assessment, behavioral intervention services and modifications,

that are designed to address the behavior that gave rise to the violation so that it does

not recur.

f. If it is determined that the student’s misconduct is a manifestation of the student’s

disability, federal law does not permit a school district to cease all educational services. If

it is determined that the student’s behavior is a manifestation of the student’s disability,

the Multi-Disciplinary Team shall conduct a functional behavioral assessment and

implement a behavior intervention plan, which includes the provision of Positive Behavior

Interventions and Supports, if such assessment was not completed prior to the behavior.

If a behavior intervention plan has been developed, the committee shall review the plan,

modify it, as necessary, to address the behavior and include the provision of Positive

Behavior Interventions and Supports. In either case, the student shall be returned to the

placement from which he or she was removed. Nothing herein shall be construed as

preventing the team from proposing another placement, so long as the placement is

appropriate and in the least restrictive environment.

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 42

Good Cause Exemptions to State Statute

1006.15

Good Cause Exemptions to State Statute 1006.15:

1006.15 states:

A student may not participate in a sport if the student participated in that same sport at another school

during that school year, unless the student meets one of the following criteria:

● Dependent children of active-duty military personnel whose move resulted from military orders.

● Children who have been relocated due to a foster care placement in a different school zone.

● Children who move due to a court-ordered change in custody due to separation or divorce, or

● The serious illness or death of a custodial parent.

● Authorized for good cause in district or charter school policy.

In addition to the language in the statute The School District of Palm Beach County will offer a good

cause exemption when a student has been reassigned to another campus by District personnel.

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 43

Glossary

Definitions of terms and/or student conduct which are considered to be violations of the Student Code of

Conduct are described in this section of the handbook. The use of words, such as battery and arson, are

not meant to be considered equivalent to or to carry the same standards and consequences as the same

words, which are defined in the criminal context in the Florida Statutes. The School Board retains the

flexibility and right to attach definitions found in Board Rule to such words without attaching any criminal

standards set by the courts or legislature. When a student has committed an infraction, the misbehavior

is to be classified according to the definition which best describes it. All students and parents/guardians

must understand that, in addition to taking corrective strategies at the school level, certain criminal

and/or disruptive behavior must by Board Rule be reported to School Police.

The notation * next to the three-letter violation code listed below in the Glossary, represents SESIR

definitions and guidelines required by the Department of Education.

Abeyance - Out of School suspension days issued, but not enforced if an alternative plan is completed.

Examples include tobacco, alcohol, or drug education classes.

Abuse of School Property/Minor Vandalism - To use wrongly or improperly, or to maltreat any school

equipment or property. L2

Aggravated Assault {OMC*} - An assault with a deadly weapon without intent to kill; or with intent to

commit a felony. “Assault” is an intentional, unlawful threat by word or act to do violence to the person

of another, coupled with an apparent ability to do so, and doing some act which creates a well-founded

fear in such other person that such violence is imminent. (F.S. 784.011 and 784.021) L4

Alcohol {ALC*} - The violation of laws or ordinances prohibiting the manufacture, sale, purchase,

transportation, possession, distribution, or use of intoxicating alcoholic beverages. Use should be

reported only if the person is caught in the act of using, or is discovered to have used in the course of the

investigation. Alcohol incidents cannot be drug-related. L3

Apology Letter - Student makes amends for negative actions by taking responsibility to correct the

problem created by the behavior through written declaration of remorse.

Armed Robbery {ROB*} - The taking of money or other property which may be the subject of larceny from

the person or custody of another, with intent to either permanently or temporarily deprive the person or

the owner of the money or other property, when in the course of the taking there is the use of force,

violence, assault, or putting in fear with the use of a firearm or other deadly weapon (F.S. 812.13 (1) &

(2) (a)). L4

Arson {ARS*} - To intentionally damage or cause to be damaged, by fire or explosion, any dwelling,

structure, or conveyance, whether occupied or not, or its contents. Fires that are not intentional, that are

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 44

Glossary

caused by accident, or do not cause damage are not required to be reported in SESIR (F.S. 806.01 (1) (a)-

(c)). L4

Battery-Aggravated/Felony {BAT*} - A battery where the attacker intentionally or knowingly causes more

serious injury as defined in State Board of Education Rule 6A-1.0017 (8) (g), such as: great bodily harm,

permanent disability, or permanent disfigurement; uses a deadly weapon; where the attacker knew or

should have known the victim was pregnant. (F.S. 784.03 & 784.045). L4

Behavior Contract or Plan - A written/verbal contract or plan for the student with stated goals, objectives,

and outcomes for the student to develop the necessary skills to address the stated incident.

Bomb Threat {TRE*} - Intentionally making a false report to any person, including school personnel,

concerning the placement of any bomb, dynamite, explosive, or arson-causing device. L4

Breaking and Entering/Burglary {BRK*} - The unlawful entry with or without force into a building or other

structure, remaining behind or conveyance with the intent to commit a crime to property. L3

Bullying/Cyber Bullying {BUL*} - Systematically and chronically inflicting physical hurt or psychological

distress on one or more students or employees. Bullying includes instances of cyberbullying, as defined

in Section 1006.147 (3) (b), F.S. Bullying may include, but is not limited to, repetitive instances of teasing,

social exclusion, threats, intimidation, stalking, physical violence, theft, harassment, public or private

humiliation, or destruction of property. If the physical harm or psychological distress is not the result of

systemic or chronic behavior, evaluate for Harassment.

*Additional consequences could apply if the bullying is directed at someone because of his or her

gender, gender identity, race, color, religion, ethnicity, national origin, marital status, age, sexual

orientation, social and family background, language, pregnancy, or disability.

Bus, Assigned Seat - The temporary or permanent assignment to specified seat on the school bus.

Bus Disruption - Behavior that disrupts and/or distracts the driver from safely operating the school bus.

L2

Bus, Probation - An alternative to a Bus Suspension. A student placed on Bus Probation will, very likely,

be suspended from the school bus if another bus violation occurs.

Bus, Suspension - Suspension of bus riding privileges for a specified period of time. (Consequences for

violations of transportation policies, rules, or standards of conduct are not limited to the suspension of

bus riding privileges. Other sanctions, up to and including out of school suspension and expulsion may be

imposed when warranted).

Cellular Telephone/Technology Violation - The use of wireless communication devices including but not

limited to cellular telephones, camera telephones, MP3 players, iPods, readers and other electronic

devices in violation of the time, place, and manner as outlined in the Code of Student Conduct (SB Policy

5.183). L1

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 45

Glossary

Cheating - Copying another student’s work, the use of cheat sheets, or any cheating violation that can be

resolved by the classroom teacher. L1

Cheating Severe - The unauthorized use and/or sharing of tests or other instructional materials whether

copied, distributed, publicized, duplicated or obtained by any means, for the purpose of academic or

personal gain. This includes instructional materials and/or tests completed on behalf of another

student. L2

Check In/Check Out - Daily contact with an assigned adult on campus. Student should see the adult before

school starts each day, as well as at the end of the day.

Computer/Technology Misuse –Major {OMC*} - The inappropriate use of a computer, including, but not

limited to, breaking into restricted accounts or networks, modifying, or destroying files without

permission, illegally copying software, and entering or distributing or printing unauthorized files.

Accessing or entering unauthorized internet sites; distributing inappropriate electronic messages. L3

Computer/Technology Misuse –Minor - Minor inappropriate use of a computer and/or technology

without malicious intent. L1

Conference with Student/Warning - Administrative conference with student and warning about stated

incident.

Confiscation - The confiscating of an item(s) not permitted on school grounds. Depending on the item(s),

the item(s) could be turned over to law enforcement, held until parent/guardian came to retrieve it, or

returned to the student after a specified period of time.

Conflict Resolution - An umbrella term for a variety of activities that result in resolution of problems and

normalized relationships.

Confrontation - A verbal confrontation, or the encouraging or inciting of a confrontation that has the

propensity to escalate into a fight. L1

Counterfeit - To fashion or reproduce a document, money, or other items with the intent to defraud;

includes counterfeit money or documents; also, any Level 3-type incident that is inappropriate in a school

setting and does not fit into another Level 3 category. Included in this category is culpable negligence,

exposing another person to personal injury. L3

Criminal Act Against a Person {OMC*} - Any person who attempts to commit, or who solicits another to

commit, or who agrees, conspires, combines, or confederates with another person or persons to commit

the offense of a Battery, Robbery, Homicide, Kidnapping, or Sexual Battery against another person or

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 46

Glossary

persons, and in such attempt does any act toward the commission of such offense, but fails in the

perpetration or is intercepted or prevented in the execution of the offense (F.S. 774.04). L4

Criminal Mischief/Vandalism - $1000 or more VAN* - Willfully and maliciously injuring or damaging by any

means any real or personal property belonging to another, including, but not limited to, the placement of

graffiti or other acts of vandalism. Incidents that fall below the $1000 threshold are not reportable in SESIR,

but instead should be reported as locally-defined incidents according to district policies. L3

Dangerous Items {WPO*} - Dangerous Items: Possession of an item that poses a risk to the safety and

welfare of the school community. Included in this category are BB guns, Airsoft guns, toy or replica guns

represented as real guns. Also included in this category is the possession or storage of items which are

prohibited at school, including but not limited to, ammunition clips, bullets or cartridges, flammable

liquids, combustible materials, poisonous substances, mace, pepper spray, and any other items which may

result in injury. L3

Detention - Additional time a student must stay at school after other students have gone for the day, or

on Saturday.

Disobedient/Insubordination - Failure to obey a reasonable instruction or request by a staff member. L1

Disobedience/ Open defiance/ Insubordination (repetitive)- Repeated acts of defiance, disobedience, or

failure to comply with reasonable instruction or request by a staff member. L2

Disrespectful Language - Written, verbal remarks and/or gestures that shows a lack of respect, rudeness

and is inappropriate. The use of words or acts which demean, degrade, antagonize, or humiliate a person

or group of persons. L1

Disruption of a School Function {DOC*} - Disruptive behavior that poses a serious threat to the learning

environment, health, safety, or welfare of others. Examples of major disruptions include bomb threats,

inciting a riot, or initiating a false fire alarm. L3

Disruptive (Unruly) Behavior or Play - Disruptive behaviors including disruptive play, disrespectful

language, and any other repetitive behaviors that create a disruptive learning environment. L1

Disruptive (Unruly) Behavior or Play (Repetitive) - Repeated referrals (3 or more) for Level 1 disruptive

behaviors including disruptive play, disrespectful language, and any other repetitive behaviors that create

a disruptive learning environment. L2

Dress Code Violation - Dress in a manner that violates the school's dress code policy and/or in a manner

that would constitute a safety hazard (F.S 1006.07). L1

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 47

Glossary

Drugs or Imitation Drugs Represented as Drugs {DRU*} - The use or possession of any drug, narcotic,

controlled substance, or any substance when used for chemical intoxication while on school district

property, school transportation, or at a school related function. Use means the person is caught in the act

of using, admits to use or is discovered to have used in the course of an investigation. Drugs unattended

and not linked to any individual must be coded appropriately and reported as unknown. L3

Drug Paraphernalia {OMC*} - To possess, use, sell, store, or distribute any device or equipment used for

the purpose of preparing or taking drugs, including, but not limited to, items listed in Florida Statute

893.145, and items which may be determined to be drug paraphernalia under the criteria set out in Florida

Statute 893.146. L3

Drug (Sale or Distribution) {DRD*} - The manufacture, cultivation, purchase, sale, or distribution of any

drug, narcotic, controlled substance or substance represented to be a drug, narcotic, or controlled

substance. L4

Explosive Device {WPO*} - An explosive is any chemical compound or mixture that has the property of

yielding readily to combustion or oxidation upon application of heat, flame, or shock. This includes but is

not limited to dynamite, nitroglycerin, trinitrotoluene, or ammonium nitrate when combined with other

ingredients to form an explosive mixture, blasting caps, and detonators (F.S. 790.001 (5)).

Extortion/Blackmail/Coercion {ROB*} - The use of threat or intimidation to obtain anything of value from

another person, including, but not limited to, money. L3

Fighting {FIT*} - Mutual participation in a hostile, physical encounter; mutual participation in an

altercation involving physical violence that requires either 1) physical intervention or 2) results in injury

requiring first aid or medical attention. L3

(NOTE: Self-Defense is described as an action to restrain or block an attack by another person or to shield

self from being hit by another person. Retaliating by hitting a person back is not self-defense and will be

considered as fighting.)

Firearm/Handgun/Rifle/Shotgun {WPO*} - Possession or sale of any firearm, including handguns, on

school property, school sponsored transportation or during a school-sponsored activity. A firearm,

including handguns, is any weapon (including a starter gun) which will, is designed to, or may readily be

converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive, the frame or receiver of any such weapon,

any firearm muffler or firearm silencer, any destructive device, or any machine gun, rifle, or shotgun. The

term firearm does not include an antique firearm unless the antique firearm is used in the commission of

a crime. A destructive device is any bomb, grenade, mine, rocket, missile, pipe-bomb, or similar device

containing some type of explosive that is designed to explode and is capable of causing bodily harm or

property damage. Defined by section 790.001, F.S. or district code of conduct. L4

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 48

Glossary

Firecrackers/Poppers - Possession, use, sale, storage, or distribution of firecrackers, poppers or associated

devices as long as the object is not used as a weapon or is not considered a weapon by Florida statutes.

L2

Forgery of a Document or Signature - To fashion or reproduce the signature of another for fraudulent

purposes. L2

Gambling {OMC*} - One who participates in games of chance or skill for money, profit, or anything of

value. L2

Grand Theft ($750 threshold) – The unauthorized taking of the property of another person or organization,

including motor vehicles, valued at $750 or more, without threat, violence, or bodily harm. Incidents that

fall below the $750 threshold are not reportable in SESIR, but instead should be reported as locally-

defined incidents according to district policies. Thefts of property of any value that involve a use of force,

violence, assault, or putting the victim in fear must be reported as Robbery. L3

Harassment {HAR*} - Any threatening, insulting or dehumanizing gesture, use of data or computer

software, or written, verbal or physical conduct. that (1) places a student or school employee in

reasonable fear or harm to his or her person or damage to his or her property, (2) has the effect of

substantially interfering with a student's educational performance, opportunities, or benefits, or (3) has

the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of a school including any course of conduct

directed at a specific person, that causes substantial emotional distress in such a person and serves no

legitimate purpose, and as defined in SB Policy 5.002. Instances of Harassment that are chronic or

repeated in nature should be evaluated for Bullying or Bullying-related. L2

*Additional consequences could apply if the harassment is directed at someone because of his or her

gender, gender identity, race, color, religion, ethnicity, national origin, marital status, age, sexual

orientation, social and family background, language, pregnancy, or disability.

Hazing {HAZ*} - Any action or situation that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student

at a school with any grades from 6-12 for purposes of initiation or admission into or affiliation with any

school sponsored organization. “Hazing” includes, but is not limited to: (a) pressuring, coercing or forcing

a student to participate in illegal or dangerous behavior, or (b) any brutality of a physical nature, such as

whipping, beating, branding, or exposure to the elements. L3

Homicide/Murder {HOM*} - The unlawful killing of a human being (Florida Statute 782.04) and

manslaughter - the killing of a human being by the act, procurement, or culpable negligence of another,

without lawful justification (F.S. 782.07). L4

Inappropriate Activity - Any activity that is disruptive and tends to interfere with the process of teaching

and learning that cannot be coded in another Level 1 incident. L1

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 49

Glossary

In-School Alternative to Suspension - An alternative to an out-of-school suspension that prevents a

student from attending all or some classes. During the period of an alternative to suspension, the student

is assigned to a self-contained alternative classroom.

Instruments or Objects - Possession of any instrument or object that could be used as a weapon (other

than a firearm) may be considered under this heading if there has been no threatening or intimidating

display of the instrument or object. i.e., BB Guns, toy guns, etc. L2

Kidnapping or Abduction {KID*} - Forcibly, secretly, or by threat, confining, abducting, or imprisoning

another person against his or her will and without lawful authority. L4

Leaving school grounds (without permission)-leaving school grounds during school hours or during a

supervised school activity or event without expressed permission from school personnel or event

sponsor(s). L1

Lewd, or Obscene Act {SXO*} - The use of oral or written language, electronic messages, pictures, objects,

gestures, or engaging in any physical act considered to be offensive, socially unacceptable, or not suitable

for an educational setting. Included in this category are indecent exposure (exposure of private body

part(s) to the sight of another person in a lewd or indecent manner in a public place), and obscenity

(conduct which by the community standards is deemed to corrupt public morals by its indecency and/or

lewdness such as phone calls or other communication or unlawful manufacture, publishing, selling, buying

or possessing materials such as literature or photographs. L3

Loss of Privileges - The loss of a privilege(s) during school hours and non-school hours such as assemblies,

incentive activities and sporting events, etc.

Lying /Misrepresentation - Intentionally providing false or misleading information to, or withholding valid

information from, a school staff member. L1

Materials - Unauthorized selling or distributing of materials during school, e.g., candy, magazines. L1

Medication Unauthorized use/Possession- to store, possess, use any over the counter or prescription

medication, other than the medications authorized to be carried with an authorized and valid

prescription. L1

Menacing Statements - A medium level of threat which could be carried out, although it may not appear

entirely realistic. The threat is more direct and more concrete than a low-level threat; the wording in the

threat suggests that the aggressor has given some thought to how the act will be carried out; there may

be a general indication of a possible place and time (though these signs still fall well short of a detailed

plan). There is no strong indication that the aggressor has taken preparatory steps, although there may

be some veiled reference or ambiguous or inconclusive evidence pointing to the possibility. L2

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 50

Glossary

Mentoring - An agreed upon adult or student who provides consistent support, guidance, and concrete

help to a student who is in need of a positive role model.

Motor Vehicle Theft {STL*} - The theft or attempted theft of a motor vehicle. Examples include theft of

a car, truck, motorcycle, golf cart, dune buggy, RV or anything that is self-propelled. L3

Opioids - To store, possess, purchase, use, or be under the influence of an opioid, including, but not limited

to, the illegal drug heroin, synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, and pain medications available legally by

prescription, such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, codeine, morphine, etc. L3

Out of Assigned Area - Out of assigned area without permission and/or in a restricted access area without

permission. L1

Out-of-School Suspension - The temporary removal of a student from school for a period of 1 to 10 days.

During the out-of-school suspension, the student is prohibited from attendance at school or any school-

related functions.

Petty Acts of Misconduct - Acts that do not pose a direct threat to the safety of students, staff,

volunteers, or other persons, or a threat of harm to school district property. Such acts do not

require consultation with law enforcement.

Petty Theft/Stealing (less than $750) - The unlawful taking, carrying, leading, or riding away of property

less than $750 in value from the possession, or constructive possession, of another person. L2

Physical Aggression (not involving Law Enforcement) - Brief exchange of physical contact which could

include pushing or shoving that doesn’t result in significant injury AND does not require significant adult

intervention to separate or restrain. L2

Post/Transmit a Threat of mass shooting or terrorism-to make statements of high-level mass threats or

terrorism through social media or any electronic median; the threat is direct, specific, and plausible. L4

Prescription Medication {DRU*} - To possess, use, store, or be under the influence of another person's

substance which requires a physician's prescription, to misuse one's own prescription medication, or to

possess, store or use any over-the counter medication (other than opioids and those listed in Prohibited

Items) without parent approval and school notification. L3

Profane/Obscene Language - Abusive, profane, obscene, or vulgar language (verbal, written, or gestures)

or conduct in the presence of another person. L2

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 51

Glossary

Prohibited items - Possession and/or use of items or contraband designated by the school as

inappropriate materials AND any other items that causes distraction or damage to persons or property or

otherwise interfere with the learning process (including, but not limited to, squirt toys, slime, matches

and lighters). L1

Public Displays of Affection - Engaging in overtly amorous contact or language not appropriate in a school

setting. L1

Reckless Vehicle Use {OMC*} - The use of any motorized or self-propelled vehicle on school grounds in a

reckless manner or so as to threaten the health, safety, welfare of others, or to disrupt the educational

process. L3

Restitution - Repayment for damages or loss

Restorative Justice - A structured process guided by a trained facilitator in which the participants in an

incident examine the intended and unintended impact of their actions and decide on interpersonal

remedies to repair harm and restore relationship.

Ripple Effects - A media program that is structured towards the area of behavioral concern, allowing

students to work at their own pace.

Robbery {ROB*} - The taking or attempted taking of money or other property from the person or custody

of another with the intent to permanently or temporarily deprive the person or owner of money or other

property, under the confrontational circumstances of force, or threat of force or violence, and/or by

putting the victim in fear. (A key difference in Grand Theft and Robbery is that Robbery involves violence,

a threat of violence or assault, and putting the victim in fear. ) L3

School/Class Rules - Violation of specific posted or written school or class rules that are not necessarily

disruptive behaviors (ex: repeated gum chewing) L1

Severe Inappropriate Activity - Any activity or behavior that creates a major disruption and interferes

with the process of teaching and learning that goes beyond Level 1 conduct, but cannot be coded in

another Level 2 incident. L2

Sexual Assault {SXA*} - An incident that includes fondling, indecent liberties, child molestation, or

threatened rape. Both male and female students can be victims. Classification of these incidents should

take into consideration the age and developmentally appropriate behavior of the offender(s). L3

Sexual Battery {SXB*} - Attempted or actual forcible penetration, forced oral, anal, or vaginal penetration

by, or union with, the sexual organ of another or the anal or vaginal penetration of another by any other

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 52

Glossary

object (F.S. 794.011 (1) (h). Would also include the above sexual act if student was placed under the

influence of drugs or alcohol with the purpose of committing such act. L4

Sexual Harassment {SXH*} - Unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature, such as sexual advances, requests

for sexual favors, and other verbal, nonverbal, or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Harassing conduct

can include verbal or nonverbal actions, including graphic and written statements, and may include

statements made through computers, cellphones, and other devices connected to the Internet. The

conduct can be carried out by school employees, other students, and non-employee third parties. L2

Sexual Misconduct {SXO*} - Sexual contact, including intercourse, without force or threat of force. L3

Silent Lunch/Lunch Detention - A separate facility and/or seating arrangement for the student during a

regularly scheduled may request some cafeteria clean-up assistance from the student such as sweeping,

wiping tables, and/or assisting with other clean-up activities.

Simple Battery (Physical Attack) – An actual and intentional touching or striking of another person against

his or her will, or the intentional causing of bodily harm to an individual.

Stay Away Agreement - A formal agreement regulating the movements of the victim and offender in

incidents of bullying and/or dating violence.

Stealing more than $300 {STL*} - The unauthorized taking or concealing the property of another person,

without threat, violence or bodily harm, with the intent to prevent or deprive the rightful owner of its use.

This includes taking of property or taking property from a vehicle on school property. Law Enforcement

is involved. L3

Tardiness (Habitual) - A consistent failure to be in a place of instruction at the assigned time. L1

Threat Assessment- A violence prevention strategy that involves: (a) identifying student threats to

commit a violent act, (b) determining the seriousness of the threat, and (c) developing intervention plans

that protect potential victims and address the underlying problem or conflict that stimulated the

threatening behavior.

Threat (non-criminal) - A statement which does not meet the criteria of a criminal assault. A low-

level threat that poses a minimal risk to the victim and public safety. The threat is vague and

indirect; the information contained within the threat is inconsistent, implausible or lacks detail;

the threat lacks realism; and the content of the threat suggests the person is unlikely to carry it

out. L2

Threat/Intimidation - An incident where there was no physical contact between the offender and

victim, but the victim reasonably believed that physical harm could have occurred based on verbal

or nonverbal communication by the offender. This includes nonverbal threats (e.g., brandishing a

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 53

Glossary

weapon) and verbal threats of physical harm which are made in person, electronically or through

any other means. L3

Threat of Violence (High Level) {TRE*} - High level of threat is a threat that appears to pose an

imminent and serious danger to the safety of others; the threat is direct, specific, and plausible;

the threat suggests concrete steps have been taken toward carrying it out, for example,

statements indicating that the aggressor has acquired or practiced with a weapon or has had the

victim under surveillance. L4

Tobacco/Alcohol/Drug Alternative - A program designed to educate the student about tobacco, alcohol,

and/or drugs and to deter future use. Generally, this is used as an alternative to an out-of-school

suspension and/or to shorten the length of the suspension.

Tobacco-Nicotine Products TBC* - Possession, use, sale, storage, distribution, or purchase of tobacco products

on school district property. Tobacco/nicotine products include, but are not limited to cigarettes, e-cigarettes,

vape, cigars, snuff, dip, pipe tobacco, chewing tobacco and hookah pens. Tobacco incidents cannot be drug-

related. Incidents involving use or possession of vaping products that do not contain nicotine or controlled

substances are not required to be reported in SESIR. L2

Trespassing TRS* - To enter or remain on a public-school campus, school board facility, or at a school function

without authorization or invitation and with no lawful purpose for entry, including students under suspension

or expulsion; to enter or remain on a public-school campus, school board facility, or at a school district facility

sponsored activity without authorization after being directed to leave by the chief administrator or designee

of the facility, campus, or function. Only incidents involving a student currently under suspension or expulsion,

or incidents where any offender (student or non-student) was previously issued an official trespass warning by

school officials, or where any offender was arrested for trespass are required to be reported in SESIR. Trespass

incidents that did not have a prior official warning, did not result in arrest, or did not involve students under

suspension or expulsion should be reported as locally defined incidents according to district policies. L3

Truancy (Unexplained Absence) - An absence from class or school for which the reason or excuse is inadequate

or does not meet the criteria for an excused absence. L1

Vandalism (less than $1,000) - The willful and/or malicious destruction, damage or defacement of public or

private property, real or personal, without the consent of the owner or the person having custody or control

of it. L2

Vape/Ends Paraphernalia Sale/Distribution (non-drug) - The sale or distribution of Vape/Ends paraphernalia

that does not include a drug. L3

Vape/ENDS Devices - /ENDS/ENDS

Verbal Assault - Any intentional, unlawful threat, by word or act, to do violence to a School Board employee,

coupled with an apparent ability to do so, performing some act that creates a well-founded fear of imminent

violence to another person. L3

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 54

Glossary

Victim Safety Plan - A formal agreement specifying the actions students and school officials will take to protect

the victims of bullying and/or dating violence.

Voluntary Restitution - Student designs and implements a plan to correct errors made apologizes and/or

replace/repair property.

Weapon- any dirk, knife, metallic knuckles, slungshot, billie, tear gas gun, chemical weapon or device, or

other deadly weapons except a firearm or a common pocketknife, plastic knife, or blunt-bladed table knife.

“Electric weapon or device” (Taser/Stun Gun) means any device which, through the application or use of

electrical current, is designed, redesigned, used, or intended to be used for offensive or defensive purposes,

the destruction of life, or the infliction of injury. Weapons unattended and not linked to any individual must

be coded appropriately and reported as unknown. Weapons defined by section 790.001, (6) & (13) F.S.

and includes tasers, box cutters and other weapons as defined by 790.115, F.S. . L4

Weapons Possession – Possession of a firearm or any instrument or object as defined by Section 790.001 (6)

and (13) that can inflict serious harm on another person or that can place a person in reasonable fear of

serious harm. All SESIR incidents are required to be reported as Weapon-related where anyone involved

possessed or used a firearm or weapon or if the incident was related to possession, use or sale of firearms or

weapons, as defined in Section 790.001 (6) and (13), F.S. and includes tasers, box cutters and other weapons

as defined by 790.115 F.S.

Secondary (6-12) 2022-2023 Page 55

Acronyms

ATOD = Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs

AOD = Alcohol or other Drugs

ENDS= Electronic Nicotine Delivery System

ESE = Exceptional Student Education

ELL = English Language Learners

EP= Education Plan

IEP = Individual Education Plan

LEP = Limited English Proficiency

MDR = Manifestation Determination Review

PBC = Palm Beach County

PBS = Positive Behavior Support