Use of nicotine or tobacco products (as outlined in II. I. Smoke-Free Schools Policy) is not permitted on school grounds. Disciplinary action for violation shall be taken as follows:
First Offense
The principal shall inform the staff person of the RI Gen. Laws § 23-20.9-1 et seq. "Smoking Restrictions in Schools Act". The school principal may encourage staff member to participate in a smoking cessation program.
Second Offense
Verbal warning by principal, followed up with a letter within three days of the violation; principal may encourage staff members to participate in a smoking cessation program.
Third Offense
The principal of the school building in which the violation occurred shall report the repeated violations to the Superintendent of Schools. The staff member shall be subject to disciplinary action as delineated by the Superintendent of Schools. Employees will be reminded of their right to choose to engage with union representation.
Fourth Offense and Subsequent Offenses
The principal of the school building in which the violation occurred shall report the repeated violations to the Superintendent of Schools who will then forward it to the West Warwick School Committee. Employees will be reminded of their right to choose to engage with union representation.
The staff member shall be subject to disciplinary action as delineated by the West Warwick School Committee and his or her bargaining unit.
Revised Date:
03/10/2020