NJSBA recently updated its model policy No. 5131, “Conduct/Discipline,” listed in the Critical Policy Reference Manual, to specifically address the requirement for a Code of Student Conduct (N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.1).

Under the regulation, school boards must have policy language that governs how the Code of Student Conduct is developed, describes who has input into its development, and includes standards for conduct and discipline.

The NJSBA model policy language has been updated to include the requirements for the implementation, regular review and update of the Code of Student Conduct, as well as the board’s responsibility under the state’s Electronic Violence and Vandalism Reporting System.

Away from School Although the regulation does not require it, N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.6 gives school boards the authority to impose consequences for behavior that takes place away from school grounds, including on school buses or at school-sponsored functions.

When developing discretionary provisions, it is important to remember that all of the rules governing the implementation of the Code of Student Conduct will apply.

Time to Review NJSBA recommends that school boards take the following steps concerning their Conduct/Discipline policies:

• Review the policies before the new school year begins to bring them up to date with current best practices.
  
  
• Regularly inform students and parents about how the Code of Student Conduct will be applied and how it will be enforced.
  
  
• Check with the school board attorney to ensure legal accuracy when developing policy changes.

To access the revised policy, visit www.njsba.org, go to the “Popular Resources” box in the right-hand column and click “Critical Policy Reference Manual.”

For information, contact Jean Harkness at (888) 886-5722, ext. 5268, or e-mail jharkness@njsba.org.