Honor Code

Parent/Guardian Attendance at School with Scholars

Honor Code

Adhering to the Honor Code means that scholars will act truthfully, with high moral character, both in school and out in the world, and also on the internet.

Scholars engaging in, or choosing not to inform school staff of, behavior that violates our Code of Conduct will receive consequences, including but not limited to community service, letters of reprimand, suspension, and expulsion. When we receive reports of scholars cursing and yelling on subways or buses, blocking sidewalks, or jumping over subway turnstiles, they will receive consequences as well, as it harms the reputation of all our scholars.

But we also believe that scholars learn from mistakes and that their lapses are teachable moments. As part of that restorative process, we believe that expungement of consequences is sometimes appropriate. Students and families therefore can request an expungement hearing.

See all infractions and possible school responses here.

Disciplinary Actions

Letters of Reprimand

Scholars will receive a Letter of Reprimand for certain first-time, non-egregious violations of the Code of Conduct. These may include, but are not limited to, disrespectful conduct (verbal or physical), improper use of scholar technology or social media, and disrespecting educational authority.

It's important to note that a first-time violation of the Code of Conduct that is deemed egregious may result in more significant consequences than a Letter of Reprimand. Repeat incidents, regardless of initial severity, will also lead to further disciplinary actions, such as suspension.

Academic Dishonesty

Scholars who engage in academic dishonesty will receive a Letter of Reprimand and a zero on the corresponding assignment/exam. Scholars who engage in multiple instances of academic dishonesty may be suspended.

Suspensions

Based on the severity and frequency of the conduct, a scholar who violates the Code of Conduct may be suspended from school for one or more days. A short-term suspension refers to the removal of a scholar from the school for disciplinary reasons for a period of five days or fewer. A long-term suspension refers to the removal of a scholar for disciplinary reasons for a period of more than five days.

If your child is suspended, you will receive a letter detailing the length of the suspension within 24 hours of the school's decision. Parents are required to meet with school leadership on your child's first day back. These restorative conversations are a crucial part of the suspension process, focusing on resetting expectations and supporting your child's successful return. See our long-term suspension policies here.

Expulsion

Scholars who reach 10 suspension incidents within a school year may be subject to expulsion. Further, any scholar who commits a serious violation of the Code of Conduct may be expelled regardless of the number of suspension incidents.

Examples that may warrant an expulsion include but are not limited to physical or sexual assault, bullying, engaging in criminal or illegal activity, illegally using, possessing, or selling weapons, alcohol, or drugs, major integrity violations, threatening or attempting any behavior that could warrant an expulsion, or Level 3 and Level 4 infractions.

Parent/Guardian Attendance at School with Scholars

Parents and guardians will not be required to remain with their scholar in order for their scholar to attend school due solely to alleged disciplinary issues or to a manifestation of the scholar’s disability. In exceptional circumstances, where it is necessary to prevent serious risk of harm, a parent may be required to remain with their scholar only so long as necessary to address that safety concern.

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