Taconic Hills presents updated code of conduct and broadens personal electronic device policy in first read

Board members reviewed a presentation and first reading of an updated code of conduct and an expanded personal electronic devices policy aimed at clarifying expectations for students and staff.

Presenters said they simplified language in the code, added a longer glossary and “put in some language that, distinguishes the difference between being mean and bullying,” and revised how complaints are handled, according to a district presenter. They also said the cell phone rule was changed to cover “all personal electronic devices.”

Why it matters: The changes are intended to make expectations clearer for students, staff and families and to provide consistent steps for staff to follow when addressing infractions. Presenters said the district will use welcome packets and homeroom reviews in the elementary school to introduce the policy and will provide a parent sign-off sheet and web-posted materials.

What the presentation said: Staff described a progressive-discipline sequence for device violations that begins with device confiscation and a documented referral, includes a parent call and lunch detentions for repeat infractions and can escalate to after-school consequence and a requirement that an adult pick up the device. Presenters said the aim is to avoid out-of-school suspension where possible by using clear, graduated consequences and educational assignments during detention.

Board process and next steps: Presenters said the policy committee will review and refine the language and that the personal electronic devices policy is being presented as a first read before being added to board policy. The administration asked trustees to review the draft and said a policy meeting will be scheduled before the next regular board meeting.

Parent concerns and reporting: During discussion a parent raised an incident involving clothing with hate symbols and asked why teachers had not reported it. Staff responded that teachers should report such incidents and encouraged students or parents to notify a counselor or another adult so administration can investigate. Staff emphasized the need for the student’s name to handle specific situations.

Quotations and attribution: A district presenter summarized the edits: “All the highlighted ones are the areas that we changed. We tried to simplify the language. We put in some language that, distinguishes the difference between being mean and bullying.” A staff member explained the progressive consequences, noting the first offense is documented and the second and third offenses add escalating disciplinary steps.

What’s next: The board recorded the policy as a first read; trustees will consider revised language after the policy committee meets and before taking a final vote.