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Board advances first reading of revised student code of conduct emphasizing restorative practices
Summary
Trustees advanced Regulation 5600 (student code of conduct) for first reading after months of revisions to prioritize restorative practices, outcome monitoring and victim‑centered followup; the measure passed first reading on a roll call with one dissent.
The Denville Township K‑8 School District board moved Regulation 5600 — the student code of conduct — forward on first reading after an extensive staff rewrite that emphasizes restorative responses, outcome monitoring and continual improvement.
Board member Mr. Kim moved the regulation for first reading and credited staff for a year‑long revision process. "The restorative practices shall be the primary method for resolving instances involving physical or emotional harm, social conflict or disruption to the learning environment except where removal is required by law," one section reads and Dr. Cullis described training and implementation steps the district will use.
Trustees discussed specific wording (including whether the phrase "global citizen" should remain) and a proposal to allow optional anonymous follow‑up surveys for victims after restorative processes have been completed. Administrators said anonymous responses would help capture experiences from families who may fear retribution but that named followup would be required when parents request further assistance.
Board members praised the document as more outcome‑focused and said the regulation gives the board a mechanism to monitor whether restorative efforts genuinely restore safety and trust. On the roll call for first reading the regulation passed after one trustee voted no and the rest voted yes; the administration will bring a final version back for approval at a later meeting.
