4118.24 - 4218.24 - Staff-Student Non-Fraternization

Personnel -- Certified/Non-Certified

4118.24/4218.24 - Staff/Student Non-Fraternization

All school system personnel shall maintain a professional, ethical relationship with students and refrain from improper fraternization or undue familiarity with students. Dating and sexual conduct between teachers/staff members and students are prohibited.

It is the responsibility of the Principal of each school to emphasize the requirements of this policy and to provide appropriate follow-up on any complaint or evidence of failure to follow the policy and related regulations. Teachers and staff who become aware of, or have reason to suspect a violation of this policy, should report it to the Principal. If the conduct suspected is sexual in nature, teachers and staff who are mandatory reporters should promptly notify the Department of Children and Families (DCF).

(cf. 4118.112/4218.112 - Sexual Harassment) (cf. 4118.23/4218.23 - Conduct)

(cf. 5141.4 - Child Abuse/Neglect)

Legal Reference:

Connecticut General Statutes

10-53a-71 Sexual assault in the second degree: Class C or B felony.

10-151 Employment of teachers. Definitions. Notice and hearing on failure to renew or termination of contract. Appeal

PA 15-205 An Act Protecting School Children

17a-106 Cooperation in relation to prevention, identification, and treatment of child abuse/neglect

Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), as amended ESSA, 20 U.S.C. 7 926(a); Prohibition on aiding and abetting sexual abuse (aka "don't pass the trash")

Policy Adopted: October 2018

Personnel - Certified/Non-Certified

R 4118.24/4218.4 - Staff/Student Non-Fraternization

Staff members are expected to use good judgment in their relationships with students both inside and outside of the school context including, but not limited to, the following guidelines:

1. Staff members shall not make derogatory comments to students regarding the school and/or staff.

2. The exchange of purchased gifts between staff members and students is discouraged.

3. Staff-sponsored parties, at which students are in attendance, unless they are a part of the school’s extracurricular program and are properly supervised, are prohibited.

4. Staff members shall not fraternize, written or verbally, with students except on matters that pertain to school-related issues.

5. Staff members shall not associate with students at any time in any situation or activity which could be considered sexually suggestive or involve the presence or use of tobacco, alcohol or drugs.

6. Dating between staff members and students is prohibited.

7. Staff members shall not use insults or sarcasm against students as a method of forcing compliance with requirements or expectations.

8. Staff members shall maintain a reasonable standard of care for the supervision, control, and protection of students commensurate with their assigned duties and responsibilities.

9. Staff members shall not send students on personal errands.

10. Staff members shall, pursuant to law and Board policy, immediately report any suspected signs of child abuse or neglect.

11. Staff members shall not attempt to counsel, assess, diagnose or treat a student’s personal problem relating to sexual behavior, substance abuse, mental or physical health and/or family relationships but instead, should refer the student to the appropriate individual or agency for assistance.

12. Staff members shall not disclose information concerning a student, other than directory information, to any person not authorized to receive such information. This includes, but is not limited to, information concerning assessments, ability scores, grades, behavior, mental or physical health and/or family background.

13. Sexual relations with students, regardless of age and/or consent, is prohibited and will result in dismissal.

Regulation approved: October 2018