Student and Parent Rights and Responsibilities

This handbook aims to fulfill the requirement of the Standards of Quality for Public Schools in Virginia, that “...standards of student conduct and attendance and enforcement procedures designed to provide that public education be conducted in an atmosphere free of disruption and threat to persons or property and supportive of individual rights (22.1-253.13:7 D, July 1997....)” be so stated in a policy manual.

The legal responsibilities and rights of students in the public schools of Albemarle County and the rules of conduct and disciplinary procedures applicable to students are explained in this guide and in the additional published rules made by each of our schools.  This guide represents a condensed version of the policies set forth by the School Board regarding student conduct.  For the complete text, see School Board Policies at: https://esb.k12albemarle.org/   

Appropriate student conduct is an important part of the learning process. As set forth by the Profile of a Virginia Graduate, it is the responsibility of schools to ensure students demonstrate competency in citizenship, which involves individual responsibility and self-regulation of their own behavior. All students attending Albemarle County Public Schools have the right of fair access to an education that is “...conducted in an atmosphere free of disruption and threat to persons or property and supportive of individual rights”.... 22.1-253.13:7, SOQ, 1997.

This guide attempts to define the Standards of Student Conduct for all Albemarle County Public School students.  Rules apply when students are on school property, while traveling to or from school, and while at the bus stop, while riding in school board vehicles, while in attendance at school or at any school sponsored activity.  Rules also apply off school grounds at any time when the offense involves weapons, drugs or alcohol, or intentional injury in accordance with the Code of Virginia. Rules are enforced when the student’s conduct interferes with or obstructs the orderly operation of the school system or the safety or welfare of students or employees. Guidelines and procedures related to disciplinary actions outlined in the Regulations Governing Special Education Programs for Children with Disabilities in Virginia and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 will be implemented.

All students are expected to accept and demonstrate the obligation of good citizenship to help prevent problems from happening and help solve problems if they occur. Students who observe or who are subjected to behaviors as described in policy or in this handbook are expected to report such incidences to their bus driver, teacher, coaches, adult supervisors, or school administrators.

The Constitution, federal laws, and state laws give students many rights and liberties. These rights do not permit a student to disrupt the educational process, to break school rules, to present a health or safety hazard, or to disregard directions of those in authority. Individual rights do not include infringing upon the rights of others in the school community.

To the extent permitted by applicable law, students have the right to:

• • • A public education without regard to gender, race, religion, national origin, or any reason not related to their individual capabilities;

    • An orderly school and classroom environment which will allow optimum learning, emphasizing the values of responsibility, kindness, fairness, and safety; and

    • Express themselves in speech, writing, or symbols, consistent with their constitutional rights and School Board policy.

The expectation of Albemarle County Public Schools is for all students to show respect for themselves and others and to demonstrate the qualities of positive citizenship.

Students are responsible for:

1. Knowing and complying with any rules or regulations of the School Board as well as local, state, and federal laws;

2. Attending school regularly, equipped with the materials needed to attend class and complete class assignments and/or requirements; and

3. Contributing to a climate of mutual respect for all within each school so that the hopes and ambitions of all individuals may be realized.

Parental Responsibilities

Reference: School Board Policy JFC

Per the Code of Virginia § 22.1-279.3., each parent of a student enrolled in a public school has a duty to assist the school in enforcing the standards of student conduct and compulsory school attendance in order that education may be conducted in an atmosphere free of disruption and threat to persons or property, and supportive of individual rights.

The school principal may request that a student’s parent or parents, if both parents have legal and physical custody of such student, meet with the principal or designee to review the School Board’s Code of Student Conduct and the parents responsibility to participate with the school in disciplining the student and maintaining order, and to discuss improvement of the child’s behavior and educational progress.

The school principal may notify the parent(s) of any student who violates a School Board policy or the compulsory school attendance requirements when such violation could result in the student’s suspension or the filing of a court petition, whether or not the school administration has imposed such disciplinary action or filed a petition. If a parent fails to comply with the requirements of this Policy, the School Board may ask the Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court to proceed against the parent in accordance with the requirements of the Code of Virginia.

Student Conduct

Student Responsibilities
The Albemarle County School Board (Policy JFC) establishes expectations for student conduct so that public education is conducted in an atmosphere free of disruption and threat to persons or property and supportive of individual rights. The Standards of Student Conduct apply to all PCPS students. They are enforced when the student’s conduct occurs when the student is:

1. On school property

2. Traveling to school or from school

3. Traveling to, at, and from bus stops

4. In School Board vehicles

5. In attendance at any school-sponsored activity

6. Off school property if the conduct disrupts the learning environment

School-sponsored activities include any activity related to academics, athletics, clubs, musical departments, social events, work-based learning placements (includes internships, externships) attended by students that are authorized by the Division or individual school(s).

The expectation of Albemarle County Public Schools is for all students to show respect for themselves and others and to demonstrate the qualities of positive citizenship.

Students are responsible for:

Knowing and complying with any rules or regulations of the School Board of Albemarle County as well as local, state, and federal laws; 

1. Attending school regularly, equipped with the materials needed to attend class and complete class assignments and/or requirements; and

2. Making efforts contributing to a positive school climate by demonstrating:

   • Respectfulness: Treats peers, teachers, and staff with kindness and consideration. They listen actively and value others’ opinions.

   • Inclusivity: Works to make sure everyone feels welcome and valued, embracing diversity and preventing exclusion or bullying.

   • Responsibility: Takes ownership of their actions and their role in the school community, including being punctual, completing assignments, and adhering to classroom and school norms and rules.

   • Empathy: Shows understanding and compassion for others' feelings and perspectives, offering support and encouragement when needed.

   • Collaboration: Engages positively in group work, helps peers, and fosters a cooperative atmosphere. They communicate effectively and contribute to team efforts.

   • Positive Attitude: Maintains an optimistic outlook, even in challenging situations, and approaches problems with a “can-do” attitude.

   • Initiative: Takes proactive steps to improve the school environment, whether through involvement in clubs, suggesting improvements, or volunteering.

   • Conflict Resolution: Handles disagreements constructively, seeking to resolve conflicts peacefully and diplomatically.

   • Role Modeling: Demonstrates positive behaviors that others can look up to, such as good manners, integrity, and a strong work ethic.

   • School Spirit: Participates in and supports school activities, shows enthusiasm for school events, and helps build a sense of community and pride.