Handbook -- Student Bill of Rights and Responsibilities

Student Bill of Rights and Responsibilities

 The word Human New York City public schools seek to cultivate a sense of mutual respect among students, parents and staff. City schools also aim to involve students in activities and programs, within and outside the school community, that stress a commitment to civic responsibility and community service. With the cooperation of all members of our school communities, students can reach educational excellence while enjoying a rich learning experience. This document serves as a guide for students as they strive to become productive citizens in a diverse society.

I.  The Right to a Free Public School Education

II.  The Right to Freedom of Expression and Person

III.  The Right to Due Process

IV.  Additional Rights of Students Age 18 and Over

V.  Student Responsibilities

Access Student Bill of Rights on DOE Site

 

Handbook

Student Responsibilities

Full acceptance of responsibility with the exercise of rights will provide students with greater opportunity to serve themselves and society. Students have a responsibility to:

  1. attend school regularly and punctually and make every effort to achieve in all areas of their education
  2. be prepared for class with appropriate materials and properly maintain textbooks and other school equipment
  3. follow school regulations regarding entering and leaving the classroom and school building
  4. help maintain a school environment free of weapons, illegal drugs, controlled substances, and alcohol
  5. behave in a manner that contributes to a safe learning environment and which does not violate other students’ right to learn
  6. share information with school officials regarding matters which may endanger the health and welfare of members of the school community
  7. respect the dignity and equality of others and refrain from conduct which denies or impinges on the rights of others
  8. show respect for school property and respect the property of others, both private and public
  9. be polite, courteous, and respectful toward others regardless of actual or perceived age, race, creed, color, gender, gender identity, gender expression, religion, national origin, weight, citizenship/immigration status, sexual orientation, physical and/or emotional condition, disability, marital status, and political beliefs, and refrain from making slurs based on these criteria
  10. behave in a polite, truthful, and cooperative manner toward students and school staff
  11. promote good human relations and build bridges of understanding among the members of the school community
  12. use non-confrontational methods to resolve conflicts
  13. participate and vote in student government elections
  14. provide positive leadership by making student government a meaningful forum to encourage maximum involvement
  15. work with school staff in developing broad extracurricular programs in order to represent the range of physical, social, and cultural interests and needs of students
  16. observe ethical codes of responsible journalism
  17. refrain from obscene and defamatory communication in speech, writing, and other modes of expression, including electronic expression, in their interactions with the school community
  18. express themselves in speech, writing, and other modes of expression, including electronic expression in a manner which promotes cooperation and does not interfere with the educational process
  19. assemble in a peaceful manner and respect the decision of students who do not wish to participate
  20. bring to school only those personal possessions which are safe and do not interfere with the learning environment
  21. adhere to the guidelines established for dress and activities in the school gymnasium, physical education classes, laboratories, and shops
  22. be familiar with the school Discipline Code and abide by school rules and regulations
  23. provide leadership to encourage fellow students to follow established school policies and practices
  24. keep parents informed of school-related matters, including progress in school, social and educational events, and ensure that parents receive communications that are provided by school staff to students for transmittal to their parents.

Discipline Code

The Discipline Code is also known as the Citywide Behavioral Expectations to Support Student Learning. It:

  • Is age-specific with one set for grades K-5 and another for grades 6-12.
  • Explains the standards for behavior in the New York City public schools.
  • Describes supports, interventions, and disciplinary responses that schools can use when students demonstrate unwelcome behavior.
  • Explains how you can appeal decisions.
  • Includes the K-12 Student Bill of Rights and Responsibilities.

Discipline Code (Grades 6 - 12)

Ensuring that every child learns in safe, supportive, and inclusive schools is our top priority. To do this, we use preventive approaches that address the real causes of a conflict as well as reinforcing positive behaviors through teachable moments. The Discipline Code outlines the standards of behavior and the responses if these standards are not met. We encourage you to become familiar with these standards and discuss them at home.