Acts For Which Students May Be Disciplined

A basic element of effective prevention of misconduct is the setting of divisionwide school rules which are implemented consistently. Students may be disciplined for conduct incompatible with a K-12 educational environment, for conduct specifically in violation of Prince William County School Board policies and regulations, certain provisions of state and federal law, those offenses summarized below, or other conduct that has a negative impact on the operation of the school; the health, safety, or security of students, staff, or school property; or the educational opportunities of other students. Equitable and consistent implementation of rules and regulations shall occur across school sites and within all student groups.

The principal has the authority to set the appropriate consequences for infractions, which may range from counseling to a referral for further disciplinary action (long-term suspension, placement in a nontraditional setting, or recommendation for expulsion) by the Student Hearings Department, or the School Board depending on the severity of the infraction. The student’s age and grade level, the circumstances surrounding the infraction, and other relevant factors will be considered when determining the appropriate corrective measure.

In making certain disciplinary decisions, PWCS takes into account the presence of aggravating circumstances. As defined by the VDOE, aggravating circumstances include:

• Misconduct that caused serious harm (including but not limited to physical, emotional, and psychological harm) to another person(s) or posed a credible threat of serious harm to another person(s), as determined by a behavioral threat assessment.
• The student’s presence in the school poses an ongoing and unreasonable risk to the safety of the school, its students, staff, or others in the school.
• The student engaged in a serious offense that was persistent and unresponsive to targeted interventions as documented through an established intervention process. The Code of Virginia requires that the above also include consideration of the student’s disciplinary history.

Please see the Tiered Responses to Student Misconduct for guidance on possible interventions and disciplinary consequences for violations of the COB.

Defined Student Misconduct and Corresponding Student Behavior and Administrative Response (SBAR) Codes

The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) provides guidelines for school division response to certain student misconduct and codes that allow reporting of misconduct. These guidelines are voluntary and PWCS generally follows VDOE guidance. However, in some instances PWCS may impose more serious consequences for certain offenses considered particularly serious. In the categories below, any violation of the Code of Behavior marked with an asterisk (*) indicates that available disciplinary responses are higher than the minimum VDOE recommendation. For example, due to the seriousness of the conduct, PWCS considers the following offenses to be of particular concern, and therefore consideration of expulsion (Level 5) is mandatory:

1. The possession, use, or distribution of prohibited substances as set forth in Regulation 735-1, “Prohibited Substances;”
2. The possession of weapons, as set forth in Regulation 775-1, “Weapons and Other Prohibited Objects;”
3. Physical assaults, battery, on a school staff member; and
4. Group assaults.

When viewing the tables that follow:

• An “X” denotes options that are available for consideration of disciplinary consequences.

Alcohol Use and Possession

See Prohibited Substances.

Arson

The Code of Virginia § 18.2-79 prohibits the burning or destroying of any school. The destruction may be in whole or in part – only a slight burning is necessary to violate this section of the Code of Virginia. Incidents that rise to the level of arson of a school must be turned over to law enforcement for investigation.

Assault and Battery

The assault and battery, or intentional verbal and/or physical abuse by a student on another student or staff member is strictly prohibited. An assault is a threat of bodily injury. Battery is when a person intentionally causes harmful or offensive contact with another person. Battery includes but is not limited to biting, hitting, kicking, punching, or any other form of physical aggression including contact. Note: Behavior that is developmentally expected should not be labeled as assault or battery.

The assault and/or battery (as defined here) of any school division employee, including substitutes, is strictly prohibited. This includes any intentional physical contact that is harmful or offensive. Assaults or batteries on staff require a mandatory referral to the Student Hearings Department for consideration of expulsion.

Attendance – Tardies, Truancy, and Chronic Absenteeism

Violating state law and school division policy relating to attendance is forbidden. The failure to attend school without a legitimate excuse (e.g., illness, doctor appointment, funeral in the immediate family, administrative approval) or the failure to report to school/class on time or for a portion of the day without a legitimate excuse is forbidden. Please see Policy 724, “Student Attendance, Absences, Excuses, and Tardies,” and Regulation 724-1, “Attendance, Absences, Excuses, and Tardies.”

Automobile violations, Abuse of Car, Vehicle Privileges

Cars and other vehicles may be brought onto school grounds only with permission of the administration and must be operated safely in compliance with school rules and state and local laws. Driving or parking in restricted areas may result in disciplinary action. The owner and/or operator of any car or other vehicle that is located on or operated on school property consents, by virtue of such operation and/or location of the car or vehicle on school property, to the search of such a vehicle when reasonable suspicion exists that prohibited items as described in Regulation 737-1, “Searches and Seizures,” may be inside it. Violators are subject to corrective action at school, which may include loss of driving privileges on school grounds, out-of-school suspension, further disciplinary action, and applicable legal penalties.

Bomb Threat

Any student who makes a threat to bomb a school building or who communicates by any means, knowing the information to be false, the existence of a bomb or burning of a school shall be suspended and referred to the Superintendent or Superintendent's designee for review and possible further referral to the School Board for expulsion. Actual possession of a bomb falls under PD14 and is mandatory expulsion. (Code of Virginia § 18.2-83)

Bullying and Cyberbullying

Students, either individually, or as part of a group, shall not harass or bully others either in person or by the use of any electronic communication technology, including computer systems, telephones, or instant messaging systems.

Bullying and retaliation for reports of bullying will not be tolerated in PWCS. Students who experience or witness acts of bullying should immediately report the incidents to school personnel so that the events may be investigated. Consequences will be administered to all students involved in substantiated acts of bullying. While bullying without physical injury is classified differently, once it results in physical harm, it is considered assault and battery. Students are strongly encouraged to report bullying. All allegations of bullying will be documented and investigated.

“Bullying” means any aggressive and unwanted behavior that is intended to harm, intimidate, or humiliate the victim; involves a real or perceived power imbalance between the aggressor or aggressors and victim; and is repeated over time or causes severe emotional trauma. “Bullying” includes cyberbullying which is the willful and repeated harm inflicted through the use of computers, cell phones, and other electronic devices. “Bullying” does not include ordinary teasing, horseplay, argument, or peer conflict. (Code of Virginia § 22.1-276.01)

• Policy 733, “Bullying and Harassment of Students”
  • Regulation 733-1, “Bullying of Students” Attachment I, “Bullying of Students”

Cell Phones

See Unauthorized Possession or Use of Cell Phones.

Cheating, including Plagiarism

Students shall not cheat, participate in any form of plagiarism (which includes, but is not limited to, self-plagiarism or recycling one’s own work), assist or encourage others to do so, or willfully disregard student expectations. Copyright infringement and plagiarism will be counseled, may lose credit for the assignment, and may be referred to the school administrator for disciplinary action. The school administrator will notify the parent/legal guardian of the action and the reason for the action.

Disruptive Behavior (Disobedience and Disrespect)

Any physical or verbal disturbance which interrupts or interferes with teaching and the orderly conduct of school activities, is prohibited.

Students are required to obey school rules and submit in a respectful manner to the authority and directions of teachers and other school personnel. No student may assist another student in the breaking of a school rule. The following behaviors that substantially disrupt the orderly learning environment include but are not limited to:

• Unwillingness to submit to authority or refusal to respond to a reasonable request.
• Cursing or using offensive language, including remarks intended to demean a person’s race, religion, sex, national origin, disabling condition or intellectual ability. This includes actions or displays of an obscene nature, the wearing of clothing or adornments which themselves convey sexually suggestive messages, or any materials that are obscene or sexually suggestive.
• Cursing, violent, and/or abusive language towards another student and/or school personnel.
• Students shall not engage in conduct that is or is intended to be disruptive of any school activity, function, or process of the school, is dangerous to the health or safety of students or others, or results in destruction of property. Excessive and disruptive noise, activity, or possession of items including but not limited to: toys, laser pointers, skateboards, radios, and unauthorized photographs and video recordings which disrupt the peaceful and normal operation of the school and/or which threaten the student’s own safety, or the safety and activities of others is forbidden. Violations may be cited for actions in any part of the building, on school grounds, on the school bus or at other school activities.
• Public Displays of Affection (PDA) – Students may be disciplined for kissing, touching, hugging, and other public displays of affection.

Dress and Grooming (Student)

Students are urged to dress for success each school day. Their overall appearance, while on school grounds or virtually, should be based on the health and safety of an inclusive school community. It is understood that student dress may reflect outdoor weather conditions throughout the school year, however, students should refrain from wearing any item of clothing which may cause a distraction or disruption to the educational process or compromise the physical and emotional health and safety of the student or others. Students whose appearance disrupts instruction may be asked to change clothing.

The PWCS student dress and grooming guidelines are created to ensure equity in student expression and staff enforcement and are not intended to discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by law. The dress and grooming standards apply equally to all students regardless of gender, gender identity, or gender expression.

Students are permitted to wear any religiously and ethnically specific or significant head covering or hairstyle.

Permitted head coverings and hairstyles include, but are not limited to:

• Braids
• Cornrows
• Headwraps
• Hijabs
• Locs
• Yarmulkes

Prohibited items of clothing include clothing items which:

• Reveal or expose undergarments.
• Fit in a manner as to reveal or expose undergarments.
• Contain vulgar, discriminatory, lewd, patently offensive, or obscene language or images.
• Contain threats or gang symbols.
• Promote violence or the illegal use of weapons, or the use of alcohol, tobacco, illegal drugs, and/or associated paraphernalia.
• Cause or may foreseeably cause a disruption to the learning environment.
• Are accessories that could be regarded as or used as a weapon.
• Headwear that covers one’s entire head or face, unless the headwear is:
  • Worn as part of one’s religion.
  • Worn for medical reasons.
  • Worn for personal prevention practices, like in the case of infectious diseases.
  • Worn for an approved school event.
  • Worn as an expression of one’s cultural or ethnic background.

No PWCS employee may enforce the Student Dress and Grooming provisions by direct physical contact with the student or the student’s attire. No student shall be required to undress in front of any individual to comply with these provisions.

Fighting

Engaging in a fight or altercation that involves physical violence and/or verbal abuse, regardless of which participant is the aggressor, is prohibited. Encouraging others to fight, facilitating or instigating a fight, and/or cheering on a fight is also prohibited. This includes acting as a look out or interfering with staff who seek to intervene during a fight.

Grades K-5

Following a student's first fight, a letter of warning or suspension shall be sent to their parents or legal guardian. If the student is involved in another fight, the student may be placed in in-school assistance or suspended. The disciplining administrator shall have discretion in deciding whether a fight occurred and in determining the length of the suspension. If it is needed, a teacher or school official may use reasonable and necessary physical force to stop fighting or to prevent injury or damage to other people or property. When this occurs, any student who interferes shall be disciplined by school officials.

Grades 6-12

Fighting is not allowed in school and will not be tolerated. The principal shall be responsible for deciding what actions constitute a fight and shall determine the length of suspension when a fight occurs. A teacher or school official may use reasonable and necessary physical force if it is needed to stop a fight or prevent injury or damage. Students who interfere or attempt to keep a teacher or administrator from fulfilling this responsibility will be subject to discipline. If a student has multiple violations for fighting in the same school year, the student may be referred for further disciplinary action for a possible long-term suspension. A recommendation may be made to the School Board for expulsion for students with multiple fights during the same school year or for those whose fights involved gangs, weapons or severe injuries.

Note – Self Defense: Exceptions may result when the evidence clearly supports that a student is assaulted, acted solely in self-defense, or made previous efforts to avoid such confrontations. A student claiming self-defense must:

• Be without fault in provoking or bringing on the fight or incident;
• Have reasonably feared, under the circumstances, as they appeared to the individual, that they were in danger of harm; and
• Have used no more force than was reasonably necessary to protect them from the threatened harm.

Gambling

A student shall not bet money or other things of value or knowingly play or participate in any game involving a bet while on school property, on school buses, or during any school-sponsored activity.

Gang or Gang-Related Activity

Gang activity, recruitment, and expressions of gang membership will not be tolerated. Gang-related actions, speech, gestures, clothing, symbols, or other signs of gang membership or gang activity are prohibited at school and school-related activities. Any student involved in gang-related behavior at school is subject to disciplinary action, up to and including a referral to the Student Hearings Department for further disciplinary action.

A gang is defined as any group of three or more persons whose purpose includes:

• Commission of illegal acts.
• Participation in activities that threaten the safety of person or property.
• Disruption of the school environment.
• Creation of an atmosphere of fear and intimidation.

Gang activity is defined as:

• Wearing, using, distributing, displaying, or selling any clothing, jewelry, emblem, badge, symbol, sign, or other thing that is evidence of membership or affiliation in any gang.
• Committing any act or omission, or using any speech, either verbal or non-verbal (such as gestures or handshakes) showing membership or affiliation in a gang.
• Using any speech or committing any act or omission in furtherance of the interests of any gang, including: (a) soliciting, hazing and initiating others for membership in any gang, (b) requesting any person to pay protection or otherwise intimidating or threatening any person, or (c) committing any other illegal act or other violation of school policy and inciting other students to act with physical violence.
• Inappropriate congregating, bullying, cyberbullying, harassment, intimidation, degradation, disgrace and/or related activities which are likely to cause bodily danger, physical harm, or mental harm to students, employees or visitors.

Harassment, including Sex-Based Harassment

Repeatedly annoying or attacking a student or group of students, or personnel, creating an intimidating or hostile educational or work environment for any reason. Harassment demeans, threatens, intimidates, or harms an individual or group in such a way as to cause anxiety or fear for safety. Harassment that targets the victim on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin (including shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics), sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions including lactation, age, marital status or parental status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis by law shall be investigated following procedures outlined in Regulation 738-1, “Resolution of Allegations Against Students of Sexual Misconduct,” Regulation 738-3, “Resolution of Allegations Against Students of Discrimination or Harassment,” or Regulation 738-4, “Nondiscrimination Against Students on the Basis of Disability,” as applicable.

Imposition of discipline for conduct that constitutes Title IX Sexual Harassment shall follow the procedures set forth in Regulation 738-1, not the procedures outlined in the Code of Behavior.

Any complaint of harassment or sexual harassment should be reported as required by Policy 738, “Nondiscrimination and Harassment of Students.” See the PWCS website for the processes of reporting, investigating, and resolving complaints of harassment/sexual harassment.

Hazing

Students shall not engage in hazing. “Hazing” is defined as recklessly or intentionally endangering the health or safety of a student or students or inflicting bodily harm on a student or students.

Students shall not engage in behavior that recklessly or intentionally endangers the health or safety of others or inflicts bodily injury on a student in connection with initiation, affiliation, or admission into a club, group, organization, or student body. Violators are subject to disciplinary action, and possible criminal consequences. Code of Virginia § 18.2-56 imposes a Class 1 misdemeanor penalty for hazing violations meaning confinement in jail for not more than 12 months and a fine of not more than $2,500, either or both.

Profanity

No student shall use vulgar, lewd, patently offensive, or indecent language or gestures.

Prohibited Substances

The rules governing those substances prohibited by PWCS are summarized in this section. Please refer to Regulation 735-1, “Prohibited Substances,” for all information pertaining to this subject.

In accordance with Code of Virginia § 22.1-277.08, the School Board shall, but is not required to, expel any student determined to have brought a controlled substance, imitation controlled substance, or marijuana, as defined in Code of Virginia § 18.2-247, onto school property or to a school-sponsored activity. Students who violate the law shall be referred to local authorities for appropriate action in the criminal justice or juvenile delinquency system. However, the principal, School Board, and/or Superintendent or designee (the director of SHD or a SHD hearing officer) shall have the authority to modify the type of disciplinary action when special circumstances exist based on the facts of a particular situation. Special circumstances include, but are not limited to, the statutory criteria outlined in Code of Virginia § 22.1-277.06, as described in Regulation 745-1, “Long-Term Suspension or Expulsion of Students.”

The list of prohibited substances and paraphernalia for which a student may be expelled under the rules of PWCS is broader than the list of prohibited substances for which the law mandates expulsion. Even if the prohibited substances or related paraphernalia do not fall within the class of substances prohibited by law, a student shall be subject to expulsion if the student is involved in the possession, use, receipt or attempted receipt, purchase or attempted purchase, or distribution or attempted distribution, of prohibited substances or paraphernalia, unless the principal or Superintendent’s designee (the hearing officer or designated designee), or the School Board finds that special circumstances justify a lesser disciplinary action, or no action at all, based on the facts of a particular situation. In some cases, there may be a question about whether or not the possession, use, or distribution of a substance or object is a violation. The nature and appearance of the substance or related paraphernalia, its purpose, and how it was used, or intended to be used, shall be considered when making decisions about disciplinary action.

• Duty to Report Prohibited Substances – All PWCS employees and students are required to notify the principal, assistant principal, a school resource officer, security personnel, teacher, or other school employee immediately if they have reason to believe that there are, or are likely to be, prohibited substances or related paraphernalia in school, on school grounds, on school buses, at bus stops, on the way to or from school, or at any school-related activity. Students who have such knowledge but fail to report the presence or anticipated presence of prohibited substances or related paraphernalia may themselves be subject to disciplinary action. The principal or the principal’s designee shall retain commensurate authority to immediately act within school division policy to ensure student’s and staff’s safety and welfare. The resources of the school division and local police department shall be available to assist the principal in this action.
• Consequences of a Prohibited Substance Violation – Any student accused of committing a prohibited substance violation shall be subject to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion, as described above. Principals, or their designated representatives, may offer substance abuse offenders and their parents information about community resources. As part of the hearing officer’s decision, a student may be required to attend a prevention program, complete an assessment or be placed on probation as part of the condition of returning to a traditional school.

A substance abuse suspension shall also result in an immediate suspension for a minimum of 30 calendar days from participation in all school activities (teams, clubs, and all other school-sponsored activities), including practice. Whether suspended from school or not, coaches and/or sponsors, with the approval of the school administration, may suspend students from participation in school-sponsored activities for violations of the rules of the team, club, or activity regarding prohibited substances. This includes violation of rules regarding prohibited substances committed off school grounds and outside the school day. The student may also be subject to disciplinary probation for 90 calendar days during which time principals may require subsequent follow up with the substance abuse prevention staff.

Use or Possession and Sale or Distribution of Controlled or Imitation Controlled Drugs, including Anabolic Steroids (Grades K-12)

No student shall possess, use, sell or distribute, transmit, or be under the influence of any drug, alcoholic beverage, anabolic steroid, other intoxicant, or substance in any form whatsoever prior to arriving at school or while on school property, at school-sponsored activities, or under the legal jurisdiction of the school system.

The possession, sale, distribution, or use of a controlled substance, imitation controlled substance, or any mood-altering chemicals, including inhalants on school property or at school-sponsored activities is prohibited. A violation may result in enrollment in a student-assistance program or immediate suspension and referral to the Student Hearings Department. A student who is determined in accordance with the procedures set forth in the Code of Virginia § 22.1-277 to have had in his/her possession, sold, distributed, or used a controlled substance, imitation controlled substance, or any mood-altering chemicals, including inhalants, on school property or at school-sponsored activities shall be expelled from school attendance for a period of not less than one year (365 calendar days). The School Board authorizes through Regulation 735-1, “Prohibited Substances,” the Superintendent or Superintendent’s designee to conduct a preliminary review of such cases to determine whether a disciplinary action other than expulsion is appropriate. If a determination is made that another disciplinary action is appropriate, any such subsequent disciplinary action shall be taken in accordance with procedures set forth in the Code of Virginia § 22.1-277.08. Enrollment in a drug treatment program or an alternative education program may be required.

Drug Paraphernalia (Grades K-12)

No student shall sell, use, or possess drug paraphernalia while on school property, at school-sponsored activities, or under the legal jurisdiction of the school. The paraphernalia will be confiscated, and parents/legal guardians will be notified. The student may be suspended, with the number of days left to the discretion of the administrator. Consideration of impact on the school operations in addition to the student’s discipline history and/or additional offenses may result in a recommendation to the Student Hearings Department for further disciplinary action.

Alcohol and Marijuana (Grades K-12)

A student shall not possess, use, transmit, or be under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or intoxicant of any kind prior to arriving at school, while on school property, at school-sponsored activities, or under the legal jurisdiction of the school system. Any student guilty may be suspended. Enrollment in a student-assistance program may be recommended. Students with a pattern of behavior that is not aligned with the expectations of the Code of Behavior may result in a recommendation to the hearing officer for a long-term suspension or a recommendation to the school board for expulsion from school. For reasonable cause, a student may be required by a SHD hearing officer to take an alcohol or drug screening at the request of school authorities.

All PWCS schools are smoke-free environments. Smoking and vaping are not permitted in any PWCS building at any time. Students, regardless of age, are not permitted to smoke or be in possession of tobacco products, nicotine vapor paraphernalia, cigarettes, matches, lighters, or other electronic smoking devices, on school buses, in school buildings, on school property, or at an on-site or off-site school-sponsored activity.

Students involved in the possession or use of tobacco or nicotine vapor products shall receive penalties ranging from Out-of-School Suspension (OSS) to other effective options assigned by the principal as appropriate deterrents for individual students. These options may include OSS, in-school suspension (ISS), detention, school/community projects, and charges filed with local authorities. Educational programs are available at the middle and high school levels to help students better understand the negative health consequences associated with smoking and nicotine use.

Grades K-5

Students shall not possess, distribute, sell, or use any form of tobacco or nicotine vapor products, matches, lighters, or other electronic smoking devices while on school property, at school-sponsored activities, or under the legal jurisdiction of the school system. In addition to any other consequences that may result, all tobacco products, nicotine vapor products, or other electronic smoking devices, when found, will be confiscated and parents/legal guardians will be notified.

Grades 6-12

Students shall not possess, distribute, or use any form of tobacco or nicotine vapor products while school property, at school-sponsored activities, or under the legal jurisdiction of the school system. In addition to any other consequences that may result, all tobacco products, nicotine vapor products, or other electronic smoking devices, when found, will be confiscated and parents/legal guardians will be notified.

Reporting Requirement – Crimes in the Community (Including Offenses On or Off of School Grounds)

Pursuant to Code of Virginia § 16.1-260(G), law enforcement or the Court Services Unit will notify the Superintendent when a student has been charged with an offense relating to the Commonwealth’s laws. The Superintendent or Superintendent designee may impose a disciplinary sanction pursuant to Code of Virginia § 22.1-277.2:1.

Actions outside of school that have a detrimental impact on the school building, programs, students, or staff will not be tolerated. The School Board and PWCS staff are committed to maintaining the schools as safe and healthy places in which to learn, free from the impact of violence, weapons, gang activity, substance abuse, and other harmful influences. Students are subject to corrective measures at school, up to and including further disciplinary action, for offenses that occur in the community or at other locations off of school grounds if those offenses result or may foreseeably result in material disruption to the operation of the school, the educational process, or impact the rights, safety, or welfare of students, staff, or school property. Under Virginia law, a student may be suspended or expelled if found guilty in court for the manufacture, sale, gift, distribution, or possession of drugs, even if the offense is not connected with school.

Furthermore, Virginia law provides that a student may be reassigned or placed in an alternative education program (alternative school, evening school, online resources, etc.) upon notice that the student has been charged with certain school-reportable criminal offenses, including offenses relating to weapons, alcohol/drugs, intentional injury to another person, or if convicted or found not innocent of other school-reportable offenses, as set forth in Regulation 681-1, “Nontraditional Education Programs.” Conviction or adjudication of certain school-reportable criminal charges may result in reassignment, long-term suspension, or expulsion. Students may also be reassigned, placed in nontraditional education programs, suspended, or expelled when they have committed a serious offense or repeated offenses in violation of School Board policies and regulations.

School Bus Violations

See Transportation Expectations.

Stalking

Stalking is a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to fear for the person’s safety or the safety of others or suffer substantial emotional distress. Stalking behavior may include, but is not limited to, making repeated and unwanted contact with the person through phone calls, mail, emails, texts, or social media; following the person; making threats to the victim, either directly or indirectly; and damaging or threatening to damage the person’s property.

Technology – Misuse or Unauthorized Use

See Unauthorized or Misuse of Technology.

Theft

Taking without permission or attempting to take without permission school property or personal property of others is expressly forbidden. All incidents involving theft or attempted theft of student prescription medications shall be reported to the principal or designee. Violators are subject to disciplinary action at school and may be referred to appropriate authorities for legal action.

Threats Against Students and Staff

A threat is a concerning communication or behavior that suggests an individual is a danger to the safety of school staff or students, either through violence or other harmful actions. A threat can be conveyed behaviorally, verbally, visually, in writing, electronically, or by any other means. It is deemed a threat whether it is directly observed by or communicated to the intended target or indirectly observed by or communicated to a third party, and regardless of the target's awareness of the threat. Schools have threat assessment teams tasked with evaluating and addressing behaviors that may jeopardize the safety of school staff or students. PWCS threat assessment procedures are detailed in Regulation 777-1, “Threat Assessment Procedures.” While the Threat Assessment process itself is not punitive, threats do breach the Code of Behavior and may lead to disciplinary actions.

Transportation Expectations

Riding the school bus is a privilege, except as required by law for students with disabilities, that comes with the responsibility of adhering to the student code of conduct. Students are expected to behave in a respectful and orderly manner at all times. This includes following the bus driver's instructions, remaining seated while the bus is in motion, and speaking in a low voice to avoid distracting the driver. Any form of bullying, fighting, or use of inappropriate language is strictly prohibited. Additionally, students must not damage the bus or its equipment. Violations of the 'code of behavior', such as defiance of the bus driver's instructions, physical aggression, or vandalism, will result in disciplinary actions, which may include suspension from bus privileges. It is essential for all students to contribute to a safe and respectful environment on the school bus.

Should a student be reported to the principal, the principal will be responsible for disciplinary action, which may include the loss of the privilege of bus transportation, until the parent, the bus driver, the principal, and, in some instances, a Transportation Department representative can arrive at an understanding that will correct the problem. The parent will be responsible for the transportation of students who have lost school bus transportation privileges.

Trespassing

Students serving an out-of-school suspension for 1-10 days may not be on school property without the written permission of the principal. Students who are long-term suspended must have permission from the Student Hearings Department (SHD) prior to entering any PWCS property.

In the event the student has a matter before the SHD for consideration of long-term suspension or further disciplinary action, except to attend a scheduled meeting with a parent and school officials regarding the student’s education, the student shall not be on the property or in the buildings of any PWCS school or building, school bus, or school-sponsored event without the specific prior written permission of the SHD. Any violation of this provision may lead to the imposition of further sanctions by the school administration or the filing of trespassing charges, or both. Should the student need to access a PWCS school or property during this time, please submit a written request to SHD.

Unauthorized Access – Endangering Others

Student conduct that may put others in danger will not be permitted. This includes but is not limited to, allowing access to others through unauthorized entrances (e.g., opening, blocking, or wedging a corridor door open).

Students are strictly prohibited from bypassing safety screening technology by opening exterior doors that are not monitored. Such actions pose a risk to the safety and security of the school environment and are considered a violation of the Code of Behavior.

Unauthorized Possession or Use of Cell Phones (or Personal Electronic Communication Devices)

“Cell Phone” means a personal device capable of making calls, transmitting pictures or video, or sending or receiving messages through electronic means. The definition of cell phone is inclusive of a non-smartphone that is limited to making phone calls or text messages, a smart phone that encompasses the above features, and other future personal electronic communication devices with the abovementioned characteristics.

“Personal Electronic Communication Device” means any personal device capable of connecting to a smartphone, the internet, a cellular or Wi-Fi network, or directly connects to another similar device. Personal electronic communication devices may include some wearable devices such as smart watches, as well as personal headphones, laptops, tablets, and other future personal electronic communication devices with the abovementioned characteristics.

Guidelines

1. Elementary and Combined Schools:
   1. All cell phones and personal electronic communication devices must be turned off and stored away and may not be used at any time within the school building or on school grounds or during any instructional periods regardless of location including field trips.
   2. Students are permitted to use their cell phones and personal electronic communication device(s) while on school buses, while in parent/guardian vehicles, and before they enter or after they exit school grounds.
2. Middle and High Schools:
   1. All cell phones and personal electronic communication devices must be turned off and stored away during the bell-to-bell school day and during any instructional periods regardless of location including field trips.
   2. All cell phones and personal electronic communication devices may be turned on and used within the school and on the school campus before or after the bell-to-bell school day.
3. Rules Applicable to All Schools and Grade Levels:
   1. Students, regardless of age or grade level, are required to follow the rules applicable to the specific school where they are present. For example, if a high school student is attending an activity at an elementary school, the high school student must follow the cell phone and personal electronic communication device rules applicable to elementary schools while present on the elementary school campus.
   2. Use of cell phones and personal electronic communication devices is prohibited in all locker rooms and restrooms at all times.
   3. Cell phones and personal electronic communication devices may be used on school buses provided the device does not distract the driver, compromise safety, or violate the Prohibited Content and Use for All Students provisions detailed below.
   4. Use of cell phones and personal electronic communication devices during extra-curricular and co-curricular activities held outside of the bell-to-bell school day will be determined by the coach, sponsor, or instructor.
4. Disability and Other Accommodations:
   1. Exceptions to these guidelines may be granted as disability accommodations through Section 504 plans or Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or for students in English Language Learner programs when necessary to ensure student access to the curriculum, school, and school-sponsored activities. Exceptions also may be granted as part of a student’s safety or other support plan.​

The PWCS School Board voted to adopt a bell-to-bell cell phone-free education Policy 729, “Cell Phone-Free Education.” More information can be found on the PWCS’ website under Wireless Communication Device Usage.

Unauthorized or Misuse of Technology

Computers, computer networks, and other electronic technology shall be used only for valid educational purposes and only with the approval of a school staff member. When using electronic technology in the school, students are required to abide by the COB and adhere to the standards defined by Policy 295, “Standards for Computer Systems and Network Services,” Regulation 295-1, “Computer Systems and Network Services – PWCS Responsible Use and Internet Safety Policy,” and Regulation 295-2, “Website Development and Implementation.”

These policies and regulations are available online at PWCS Policies and Regulations. Unacceptable uses of technology include, but are not limited to:

• Violating the privacy rights of others.
• Using, producing, distributing, or receiving profanity, obscenity, or material that bullies, harasses, offends, threatens, or degrades others. This includes cyberbullying, a form of bullying that involves the transmission, receipt, or display of electronic messages or images.
• Producing, transmitting, possessing, and/or sharing images, messages, or other material of a sexual nature using a wireless communication device.
• Copying commercial software in violation of copyright law.
• Using technology for financial gain or commercial or illegal activity.
• Using technology for product advertisement or political endorsement.
• Repost personal communications without the author’s prior consent.
• Using technology in violation of other rules and regulations of the COB.
• Use of technology off school property which has a material effect on the operation or general welfare of the school division, impacts the integrity of the educational process, threatens the safety and welfare of students, staff, or school property, occurs when the student is under the school’s authority or otherwise invades the rights of students or staff.

Violation of this policy may result in disciplinary action, loss of technology-use privileges, and penalties under law. Willful irresponsibility may be viewed as malicious and may lead to corrective action or criminal penalties. Deliberate attempts to degrade or disrupt technology system performance will be viewed as criminal activity under applicable state and federal law.

Vandalism or Other Damage to School or Personal Property

Vandalism and/or damage to school or personal property is prohibited.

Pursuant to Code of Virginia § 18.2-137, vandalism is the unlawful or intentional destruction, defacing, damaging or removing another person’s personal or real property without the intent to steal. Vandalism that results in damages of less than $1,000 is a misdemeanor. Damages in excess of $1,000 may result in felony charges. See Code of Virginia§ 18.2-138. Virginia law authorizes the School Board to take legal action to recover the cost of such damage from the parents of such students.

Vandalism violations include, but are not limited to arson, graffiti, theft, vandalism, destruction of computer hardware, modification of installed software, modifications to network configurations, and/or installation of unauthorized software, including viruses.

Weapons

The rules governing weapons and other objects prohibited by PWCS are outlined in Regulation 775-1, “Weapons and Other Prohibited Objects,” and summarized in this section. Weapons and other prohibited items are not permitted on any school property, on school buses, going to or from school, or at any school-related activity, regardless of where that activity takes place. School property means any real property owned or leased by the School Board or any vehicle owned, leased, or operated by or on behalf of the School Board. Students may also be subject to disciplinary action for weapons offenses that occur off school grounds, if the offense results in material disruption to the operation of the school, is planned in school or at school activities, occurs during a school-sponsored activity, threatens the safety and welfare of students, staff, or school property, is otherwise connected to the school, or results in an adjudication of delinquency reportable to the Superintendent as required by Code of Virginia §§ 6.1-260, 16.1-301, and 16.1-305.1.

Possession of Firearms and Other Statutory Weapons – Mandatory Expulsion

Principals shall suspend all students who possess weapons detailed below for 10 school days and shall refer the student to the SHD for further disciplinary action. The student shall be expelled for 365 days unless a SHD hearing officer or the School Board determines, upon reviewing the specific facts of the case, that special circumstances warrant no disciplinary action or a different form of discipline or period of expulsion. Special circumstances may include but are not limited to, the factors set forth in subsection C of Code of Virginia § 22.1-277.06.

• Weapons in violation of the Federal Improving America’s School Act of 1994 (Part F-Gun-Free Schools Act of 1994) and Code of Virginia § 22.1-277.07.
• A firearm, destructive device, firearm muffler, firearm silencer, or pneumatic gun. Weapons in violation of Code of Virginia § 18.2-308.1.
• A stun weapon.
• Knife, except a pocketknife having a blade of less than 3 inches.
• Any dirk, bowie knife, stiletto knife, ballistic knife, machete, razor, sling bow, spring stick, metal knucks, or blackjack.
• Any flailing instrument consisting of two or more rigid parts connected in such a manner as to allow them to swing freely, which may be known as a nun chahka, nun chuck, nunchaku, shuriken, or fighting chain.
• Any disc, of whatever configuration, having at least two points or pointed blades which is designed to be thrown or propelled, and which may be known as a throwing star or oriental dart.
• Any weapon of like kind.

Possession of Other Weapons or Prohibited Objects – Disciplinary Consequences

The principal shall have the discretion to impose appropriate disciplinary sanctions, up to and including a 10-day suspension from school and a referral for further disciplinary action, for the possession of the following items:

• Pocket knives having blades of less than 3 inches
• Box cutters
• Pepper spray
• Ammunition
• Razor blades
• Fireworks
• Sling shots
• Other like items
• Look-alike or toy weapons

Principals must impose appropriate discipline for possession of any weapon or prohibited object listed below as outlined in Regulation 775-1, “Weapons and Other Prohibited Objects.” Depending on the particular circumstances of the student and situation, principals may impose school-based consequences, short-term suspension, or refer the student to SHD for further disciplinary action such as long-term suspension or expulsion.