The Paramus Public School District is committed to fostering a professional, ethical, and respectful work environment for all personnel. This Code of Conduct establishes the behavioral standards expected of every staff member.
All employees are required to conduct themselves in a manner that upholds the integrity, values, and reputation of the District. Adherence to these standards is essential to maintaining the trust of students, parents, colleagues, and the broader community.
Employees are expected to maintain a professional demeanor in all interactions with students, parents, colleagues, and members of the community. Professional conduct includes consistently demonstrating respect, courtesy, and consideration toward others, thereby fostering a positive and supportive environment that reflects the values and standards of the District.
Employees are required to treat all individuals with dignity and respect, regardless of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic. Discrimination, harassment, or any form of disrespectful behavior is strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated within the District.
Employees are expected to conduct themselves with honesty and integrity in all aspects of their professional responsibilities. This includes being truthful in all communications, accurately reporting information, and diligently avoiding any actual or perceived conflicts of interest. Upholding these standards is essential to maintaining the trust and confidence of students, colleagues, parents, and the community.
Employees are required to scrupulously safeguard the confidentiality of student records and all other sensitive information obtained in the course of employment. The unauthorized disclosure of confidential information is strictly prohibited, except where disclosure is mandated by law or expressly authorized by District policy. Protecting confidentiality is a fundamental obligation that ensures compliance with legal requirements, including the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), and upholds the trust placed in the District by students, families, and the community.
Employees are required to communicate in a professional, respectful, and effective manner at all times. Effective communication is essential to maintaining productivity, supporting collaboration, and fostering a positive and inclusive work environment. Clear and timely communication also builds trust and reinforces the District’s commitment to excellence.
All employees are expected to respond to parental communications—including emails and phone messages—within 24 hours, or as expeditiously as circumstances reasonably permit. In instances where an employee requires support or guidance in addressing a particular matter, it is the employee’s responsibility to promptly inform their immediate supervisor to ensure a comprehensive and appropriate response.
Employees are required to adhere to all District policies, procedural guidelines, and applicable legal statutes. This includes compliance with attendance regulations, observance of established safety protocols, and the diligent fulfillment of all job responsibilities to the best of their abilities.
Employees are also expected to regularly check their District-issued email accounts to ensure timely receipt of important communications, updates, and directives.
Employees are expected to utilize District resources—including technological assets, equipment, and supplies—responsibly, efficiently, and exclusively for authorized work-related purposes. The unauthorized use, misappropriation, or abuse of District resources is strictly prohibited.
Responsible stewardship of District property ensures that resources remain available, secure, and functional in support of the educational mission of the District.
All staff members are required to maintain an appearance that is appropriate for their professional duties and consistent with the values of the District. Attire should reflect professionalism, cleanliness, and respect for the school environment.
The following standards apply:
Clothing displaying offensive, profane, or inappropriate language or imagery is strictly prohibited.
Overly revealing garments are not permitted.
Employees are expected to avoid attire that is excessively casual or untidy in appearance.
Staff members are expected to consistently present themselves in a manner that projects professionalism and reinforces the credibility and integrity of the District.
Staff members are expected to make every effort to be present and punctual for work each day. Consistent attendance and timeliness are essential to maintaining instructional continuity, supporting colleagues, and ensuring the effective operation of the District.
Excessive tardiness or absenteeism disrupts the learning environment and places an undue burden on students and colleagues. Failure to adhere to District attendance policies may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.
For the purposes of this policy, three (3) or more unexcused absences within a three-month period may be considered excessive.
Only authorized personnel are permitted to create, post, or manage official social media accounts or content on behalf of the District. Employees are prohibited from representing personal views as those of the District or using District branding, logos, or resources for unofficial purposes.
All use of social media in connection with District activities must adhere to District policies, professional standards, and applicable laws regarding confidentiality and student privacy.