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Section 7. Code of Conduct & Other Policies
The life and work of an Avon student is based on integrity, responsibility, and consideration. In all dealings with others, every student is expected to be sensitive, honest, and respectful of others’ rights. He should appreciate the diversity of our community, which provides the opportunity for learning, moral growth, and character development. The School’s philosophy in approaching behavior that falls short of these values is to preserve a caring community where issues and misbehavior can be handled at the lowest possible level through conversations, positive behavior modeling, and other interventions. Even with this approach, however, students may engage in conduct that requires a more formal disciplinary response from the School that holds a student accountable for his actions.
All students are expected to maintain an appropriate level of conduct consistent with school rules and values at all times while a student at Avon Old Farms. Students who violate our expectations, including the rules listed in this section, will be held accountable for their actions in accordance with the guidance set forth in the Handbook and may jeopardize their position at the School. The School also reserves the right to not re-enroll a student if his behavior demonstrates an inability to meet the School’s expectations.
Each student represents Avon Old Farms while he is enrolled as a student at our School, whether he is on or off campus, and regardless of whether school is in session. While there is heightened attention to conduct that occurs on campus or as part of a school activity, (whether on or off campus), students may be disciplined for any conduct: that occurs on or off campus; while school is in session or during breaks; if the misconduct violates our rules and expectations; bring discredit to or negatively affects the School’s reputation; is inconsistent with the School’s mission; is illegal; or is otherwise disruptive or harmful to the welfare of the School or our community. Examples of off-campus conduct that might subject a student to discipline include, but are not limited to: inappropriate social media activity, misconduct involving other AOF students, behavior that threatens or harms himself or others, or any illegal conduct.
It is also important for students to understand and respect the health and safety protocols of the School. In response to ongoing challenges created by COVID-19 or other similar threats to health and safety, the School may adopt protocols and policies beyond what is outlined in the Student Handbook. Students will be expected to comply with any health and safety protocols developed by the School or required by any local, state or federal authorities. Students who do not comply will be subject to discipline, such as Saturday Night Study Halls or Sunday Work Crews. In more serious cases, or if a student willfully or repeatedly fails to comply with these standards, he may be required to leave campus and continue his studies remotely without any reduction in tuition.
I. Level 1 and Level 2 Violations
Though this Handbook contains a variety of rules and expectations, violation of the rules outlined in this section represents more significant misconduct that will typically subject a student to the School’s formal discipline process. Rule violations are generally divided into two categories based on the severity of the misconduct:
Level 1 violations are considered major violations and will usually require the student to appear before the Discipline Committee with the potential for dismissal.
Level 2 violations are considered a lesser violation and are usually handled solely through the Deans of Students Office, without the need for a Discipline Committee hearing and will generally result in a Dean’s Review.
When a student is disciplined for a Level 1 or Level 2 violation, a letter of misconduct will be placed in the student’s record.
Based on the Dean’s Review, a Level 2 violation can be moved to the level of a major violation depending on the circumstances and/or impact on the community. The decision as to whether the misconduct warrants a Discipline Committee hearing is made by the Dean of Students in consultation with the School administration. At the sole discretion of the Head of School, the School may also impose discipline or other appropriate consequences outside of the Discipline Committee process in emergency situations warranting immediate action or in instances involving more highly sensitive student matters such as matters relating to harassment, bullying, and/or sexual misconduct.
Finally, while the Handbook provides useful guidance in identifying prohibited behavior, the School cannot anticipate or predict all behaviors that might run afoul of our standards and always reserves the right to take actions, including disciplinary actions, as may be deemed necessary by the School to act in the best interests of the School and our students and to protect the health and welfare of our school community.
II. School Rules: Disciplinary Process
The School handles all disciplinary matters in a prompt manner, taking into consideration the nature and impact of any misconduct and all relevant information, including how a student conducts himself during the inquiry. In imposing consequences, the School may also consider a student’s prior disciplinary record. The School expects that students will cooperate fully and be truthful in the investigation or review of any alleged violation of school rules.
A student who does not cooperate during the disciplinary process, is not truthful, or intimidates or otherwise discourages other students from coming forth and being truthful in a disciplinary process (whether or not that student is the subject of a disciplinary process), is subject to disciplinary consequences up to and including dismissal from school, which may be apart from any consequences for the underlying behavior. In making determinations about whether a student has violated a school rule, the School will review all relevant information and determine whether the conduct was more likely than not to have occurred. The School reserves the right to modify or deviate from the disciplinary processes set forth in this Handbook at the discretion of the School if it determines that there is good cause to do so.
III. Search Policy
The School believes that enforcement of school rules and regulations is important to the safety, security, and welfare of the students and community. Therefore, the School reserves the right to search students’ rooms, lockers, vehicles, backpacks, mobile devices, watches, computers, or other personal belongings for evidence of a violation of school rules. There is an expectation that all students will cooperate in searches and disciplinary inquiries, however, the School may still perform a search if the student does not cooperate. If a student does not cooperate with a request to submit to a search (including not providing a password), he will most likely be required to appear before the Discipline Committee and can anticipate disciplinary action up to and including dismissal from school.
Whenever there is concern that a student may have violated the Code of Conduct or other rules that could lead to discipline, the matter will be referred to the Deans of Students Office for an initial review or inquiry. The Office will review the facts and circumstances of the incident, may interview relevant individuals, conduct searches, or perform other actions that will assist in determining what occurred. The Deans will inform the Associate Head of School of the result of the initial inquiry and determine if the incident will be handled with a Dean’s Review or advanced to the Discipline Committee. This determination will be based on several factors including, but not limited to, the severity of the offense, nature of the offense, cooperation of the student(s), impact to the community, and the student(s) prior discipline record.
V. Dean’s Review
For a conduct violation that remains at the Dean’s Office level, the Deans will meet with the student(s) and formally discuss the incident with the involved student(s) to clearly identify the transgression, provide the student with an opportunity to respond and determine the appropriate response from the school, which may include discipline. If the Dean concludes that a rule violation occurred, the student and parents/guardians will receive a letter which details the transgression, consequences, and the expectations for improvement. The letter will also be placed in the student’s file.
VI. Discipline Committee
Discipline matters are generally referred to the Discipline Committee (DC) when the alleged misconduct involves a major school rule or Level 1 violation, or any other significant rule violation as determined by the Dean’s Review based on the circumstances of the incident and impact to the community. Matters referred to a DC are typically those which could result in significant discipline, including dismissal from school. The DC is led by the Associate Head of School and is typically composed of the Dean(s) of Students, the Provost, the appropriate academic dean, Associate Director of Advancement for Enrollment, three faculty members, and the Warden, who represents the student body. The student’s advisor will also be present. If an advisor, administrator, or the Warden cannot be present for a DC meeting, a replacement will be appointed. If the inquiry involves highly sensitive or private information, the Warden or student representative may not be permitted to attend the hearing and the DC may be modified to include additional faculty members. At any time, the Head of School or designee has the discretion to forgo the DC and conduct additional fact findings and/or make a discipline decision at an executive level if he deems it appropriate or in the best interest of the School, the student, or the community.
The DC will review information and evidence related to the alleged misconduct. In most cases, the DC will interview the student involved and may interview other students or other individuals who may have relevant information. The DC is responsible for drawing a conclusion about what occurred and determining if the student violated school rules. In making its decision, the DC must determine with reasonable certainty what occurred and whether it is more likely than not that the student violated School rules. Once the DC process is concluded, the DC will share its conclusion, along with a recommendation for discipline, to the Head of School. In making its disciplinary recommendation, the DC may consider the student’s prior record and level of cooperation and truthfulness in the disciplinary process. The DC’s recommendation is advisory.
While in most cases the Head of School will accept the recommendation of the DC, the ultimate decision concerning appropriate disciplinary consequences, and the student’s enrollment status, will be made by the Head of School. The Head of School’s decision is final and is not subject to appeal.
The following are rules associated with the Discipline Committee (DC): • Students are required to appear at the DC when requested. Failure to appear may be considered grounds for dismissal from school. • Lying to the DC is a serious and separate offense, which may lead to dismissal from school. Parents/ guardians/families of students or other third parties are not allowed to attend DC proceedings. The student and his parents/guardians will ordinarily receive verbal and written notification of the Head of School’s decision within 24 hours of the proceedings. • The students, circumstances, facts, and disposition of the incident will be clearly documented in an official record by the Associate Head of School. Any notes made by individual members will not be maintained. • The DC process is confidential. A student appearing before a DC for any reason is expected to respect the integrity of the DC process and not discuss information shared and/or discussed at the DC.
At any time, the Head of School or designee has the discretion to forgo the Discipline Committee process and investigate and make a discipline decision at an executive level if he deems it appropriate or in the best interest of the School, the student, or the community. In cases involving allegations of sexual harassment or sexual misconduct, or other matters that the Head of School deems to be of a highly sensitive nature, the Head of School or designee may also utilize an external investigator to assist in the investigation and disciplinary process.
VIII. Withdrawal
A student may voluntarily withdraw from the School at any time upon written notification to the Office of the Associate Head of School by a parent or guardian. If a student voluntarily withdraws from School, for any reason, the student’s transcript will reflect that he has withdrawn and the date of withdrawal.
A student facing potential discipline will not be permitted to withdraw following a final decision from the Head of School regarding any disciplinary violation. Students who withdraw from school remain responsible for any outstanding fees or other financial obligations to the School. Student records, including transcripts and recommendations, will not be released until all obligations to the School, including financial, are satisfied.
IX. Disciplinary Responses
In keeping with the School’s philosophy, the School recognizes the need to address behavior with appropriate consequences. Below is a description of the range of disciplinary actions and other consequences typically imposed by the School.
Verbal Warning During a Dean’s Review, the Deans of Students Office may determine that a lower-level violation would be appropriately handled at the lowest possible level through a conversation with the student and possibly the student’s advisor to address the nature of the violation.
Letter of Misconduct If a student has violated a school rule and the Dean of Students determines a Letter of Misconduct is an appropriate response, the incident will be documented in the form of a letter. The Dean will provide this letter to the student, which clearly describes the incident and expectations for improvement. This letter will be discussed with the student, sent to the student’s parents or guardians, and placed in the student’s file.
Saturday Night Study Hall A student may be required to attend Saturday Night Study Hall from 8 p.m.–10 p.m. with the Administrator on Duty for violations of school rules. This study hall may be assigned to address violations such as an unexcused absence from class, dress code violations, missed morning meetings or Vespers, and similar transgressions.
Sunday Work Crew A student may be required to attend a Sunday Work Crew for disciplinary reasons. This work crew will ordinarily be scheduled for the morning hours and may include working in the Refectory, cleaning up campus, or assisting with other duties. The crew will be supervised by the Administrator on Duty or other official designee and will normally be two hours.
Campus Restrictions A student may be placed on campus restrictions for repeated violations of minor school rules such as failure to meet basic academic and residential expectations. While on campus restriction, no weekend leaves, day passes, or off-campus permissions will be approved. The parents/guardians cooperation is expected.
Probation A student may be placed on probation as a result of disciplinary action. This probation can be put in place prior to or in conjunction with a suspension from School. This probation will include a standard of conduct and clear expectations for improvement. The standard of conduct and expectations are developed based on the violation, student, and discipline. They are outlined in a discipline letter based on the circumstances. Probation lasts for a stated period of time based on the circumstances and may include additional discipline such as loss of leadership positions, campus restrictions, etc.
Suspension For serious offenses or chronic repeated violations of school rules, a student may be suspended for a specified period of time. If a student is suspended, he and his parents will be formally notified of the suspension in writing and he will be expected to leave campus and not participate in any school events during that time. Any student who is suspended can expect to be placed on probation and his transcript will reflect the suspension. A student who is suspended is required to complete all required academic work. Upon his return, the student and his parents may be required to meet with the Associate Head of School or Dean of Students to discuss his return to school. Suspension will ordinarily include additional discipline such as a loss of leadership positions, etc.
Dismissal Students who have been dismissed from school may not return to campus or take part in school-sponsored events unless they secure advance written permission from the Dean of Students. Students who are dismissed from School remain responsible for any outstanding fees or other financial obligations to the School. Student records, including transcripts and recommendations, will not be released until all obligations to the School, including financial, are satisfied.
Non-participation in Commencement Ceremonies/ Withholding of Diplomas Seniors and post-graduates who violate major school rules during the spring term may not be permitted to participate in commencement exercises and/or may have their diplomas withheld, pending resolution of the violation, at the discretion of the School. Students who violate a Level 1 school rule within two weeks of graduation may be required to leave campus immediately and, if they are currently meeting all graduation requirements and school obligations, their diploma will be mailed home.
When a major school rule violation has occurred or there is impact to the community, the School may discuss the specific infractions and any resulting disciplinary action with the school community. The School reserves the right to communicate the facts, circumstances, and possibly the names of students involved for the purpose of educating the community at large, which may include students, faculty, staff, parents, alumni, etc.
In addition, colleges, universities, and other educational institutions typically inquire on applications about a student’s disciplinary or behavioral record. It is the School’s policy to maintain the trust of these institutions and therefore to respond candidly to any requests for information from any educational institution as part of an application process. Students must be aware that if the School receives an inquiry from a prospective school regarding the student’s discipline record, the School will attest to the accuracy of the student’s application responses and will accurately respond to any questions regarding the nature of any incident that led to disciplinary consequences.
The School expects students will provide truthful responses to any disciplinary questions in connection with an application to another school. In order to support our students in truthful communication with colleges, our college counselors will work closely with the student during this process.
The School does not generally affirmatively notify another educational institution, such as a college or other secondary school to which a student may apply, if and when a student is disciplined by the School other than to inform the school if there has been a change in status (e.g. student has withdrawn or been dismissed). However, the School reserves the right to do so, even without an inquiry, if, in the School’s discretion, the student poses a significant safety concern that might impact the safety and well-being of another community, such as an assault or other conduct that threatens the well-being of others.
XI. Dean’s Leave
There may be occasions when the School may require a student to be placed on Dean’s Leave while a disciplinary or other investigation is ongoing, or for other reasons, if in the opinion of the Dean(s), the student’s presence would be disruptive to the School. A Dean’s Leave is a short term, non-disciplinary leave and does not reflect any conclusion by the School that any misconduct has occurred and is not a medical leave. In the event a student is placed on Dean’s Leave, the School will work with the student and his teachers and family to support the student’s continued education to the extent possible while away from campus.
XII. Student Conduct and Academic Review
If a student, in the opinion of the School, is not meeting the standards of effort and/or conduct according to the general, acceptable community or academic standards of the School, the student may be placed on review. A student placed on review is at risk for dismissal or to have his re-enrollment contract withheld for the coming year if he does not make satisfactory improvement in meeting School expectations.
The recommendation to place a student on review will be made by the Deans of Students Office or the Academic Deans and may occur before or after the issuance of a re-enrollment contract, which normally occurs during the second semester. If the recommendation is made prior to the issuance of re-enrollment contracts, the student’s contract will be placed on hold, pending improvement.
In both circumstances, the student will meet with the Dean of Students and Provost (or their designees) to discuss the concerns and expectations for improvement. The student and parents/guardians will receive a letter detailing the clear expectations of improvement that must be met in order for the student to either remain at school or be considered for re-enrollment.
The Student Review Committee, which is comprised of the Associate Head of School, Dean of Students, Provost, Dean of Enrollment, and the advisor (or their respective designees) is responsible for reviewing all information and making a recommendation to the Head of School regarding a student’s status, including placing a student on review or determining if the student has made sufficient improvements to have this status removed. A student that does not improve to the satisfaction of the School may be asked to withdraw or be dismissed, or he may not be permitted to re-enroll for the following year.
XIII. Drugs and Alcohol
Avon Old Farms School maintains a strong stance against the use and abuse of drugs and alcohol and is concerned about the effects of drugs and/or alcohol on the ongoing mental and physical development of students. The possession, use, or distribution of drugs/alcohol, or any related paraphernalia, runs counter to the mission of the School and is detrimental to the overall functioning of the School’s community and the individual student’s well-being; it is therefore expressly prohibited. The School considers this rule to include all forms of drugs and alcohol, including marijuana, steroids, synthetic drugs (including synthetic marijuana), controlled substances, and the unauthorized possession, use, or distribution of prescription or over-thecounter drugs. Any student who violates the School’s rules regarding drugs and alcohol are subject to discipline, up to and including dismissal from the School.
Violations of the drug and alcohol policy may be handled as a combination of health and disciplinary procedures, depending on the type of substance involved, whether the violation involves other students, and considering the potential for impact on our community. Students who commit offenses involving the sale and distribution of drugs or alcohol, or who are in possession of controlled substances that are considered particularly dangerous, will typically be required to appear before the Discipline Committee and will likely face dismissal from School.
Level 1 (Major) Violation: Sale and Distribution, Possession of Dangerous Controlled Substances Drug or alcohol use that is significant or that has the potential to harm others or impact our community is considered a major school rule violation and will be treated as a Level 1 offense. Such situations occur where a student is engaged in the sale or distribution of alcohol, drugs, controlled substances, or unauthorized overthe-counter or prescription drugs. It will also be considered a Level 1 offense if the facts and circumstances indicate an intent to sell or distribute these substances.
The School will also consider the possession of controlled substances that are considered particularly dangerous to be a major school rule violation subject to Level 1 discipline. For purposes of this policy, such dangerous controlled substances include, but are not limited to, narcotics, cocaine, heroin, oxycodone, PCP, barbiturates, amphetamines, anabolic steroids, tranquilizers, LSD, Xanax, “designer or synthetic drugs,” or alcohol or marijuana in sufficient amounts that suggest the likelihood that it is being used for more than individual consumption. Students should also be aware that the School considers the unauthorized possession of any prescription medication in conflict with Health Center policies to be a Level 1 offense, even if a student has a valid prescription for the medication.
For purposes of this policy, possession is defined as having intentional control of the drug, alcohol, controlled substance, or other item such as when a student has such substance on his person, in his room, vehicle, backpack, or other belonging, or otherwise demonstrates ownership of the substance.
Sale or distribution includes any form of delivery of the drug, alcohol, or other controlled substance to another person. It does not require the exchange of money or expectation that the student receive anything in payment or exchange.
Level 2 (minor) Violation: Possession or Use of Marijuana or Alcohol Except as noted above, in a situation where a student uses, voluntarily admits to using, possesses, or is in the presence of marijuana or alcohol, the School attempts to work with the student and his parents/guardians to address the immediate health and safety concerns and determine a plan to assist the student. The School’s response will represent a combination of support, treatment, and some level of discipline. At the minimum, a student involved in one of the aforementioned situations, who wants to remain at Avon Old Farms School, will typically be required to: • Meet with the Associate Head of School and Deans as part of the review to discuss the facts and circumstances of the incident. • Be suspended from school for no less than one week. • Undergo a substance abuse evaluation with the School’s counselor, if possible, or with a licensed substanceabuse counselor while at home during the suspension period. • If using a local licensed substance-abuse counselor then, prior to returning to school, the student must provide a written substance abuse evaluation from this licensed counselor to the Dean of Students to be reviewed by the school counselor, which includes treatment, counseling, and/or drug education recommendations. • Sign a No-Use Contract that acknowledges he will be subject to random drug testing at the discretion of the
School for the remainder of his enrollment at Avon Old Farms. The financial cost of these drug screens will be the responsibility of the student’s parents/guardians. • Complete a designated number of community service hours. • Forfeit any school leadership roles, including being a monitor, big brother, etc. for the remainder of the academic year.
If a student who has previously violated this policy has a second violation, including testing positive for drugs or alcohol, possessing/using drugs or alcohol, or refusing to submit to a drug test, he will typically be required to appear before the DC and should expect to be dismissed from school.
While the School respects the students’ privacy, there is also an obligation to keep the community safe and support students in making healthy decisions. Understanding this responsibility, the School, having a reasonable suspicion or concern that a student may be using drugs or alcohol, reserves the right to require the student to undergo drug testing. Suspicion may arise from being in the presence of alcohol or drugs, concerning behavior or appearance, or other factors that give rise to reasonable concern for the student.
If the School has concerns about a student’s potential use of drugs or alcohol that is not related to a particular disciplinary situation, the School may still intervene and impose intervention type measures, such as mandating counseling or a No-Use Contract, as well as conduct searches in accordance with School policy.
Integrity and honesty are core values of the School. As with any disciplinary situation, if a student is dishonest or engages in any deception during a disciplinary inquiry, the student may be required to appear before the DC.
XIV. No-Use Contract
By signing the No-Use Contract, a student is making a promise that he will not use drugs or alcohol for the remainder of his career as a student at Avon Old Farms. Students who sign this contract are subject to random drug or alcohol testing. The cost of administering each test will be charged to the student’s account each time he is tested. If a student who is already on the No-Use Contract tests positive for drugs or alcohol on a random test, he will typically be required to appear before the DC with the likelihood of dismissal. XV. Sanctuary
Although the School’s goal is to be a substance-free school, there are occasions when students may be in need of immediate care due to the use of alcohol and/or other drugs. The objective of the sanctuary policy is to make sure that a student under the influence of alcohol or drugs is medically safe. Because of the School’s concern for the student’s health in these instances, students are encouraged to seek help if they are worried about themselves or a peer before it becomes a disciplinary matter.
Sanctuary may be invoked by a dormitory monitor or another student by immediately contacting the Health Center, a dormitory faculty member, a Dean of Students, or the Administrator on Duty to notify him/her that a sanctuary emergency is being declared and to provide the location of the student involved, as well as any other relevant details. The responsible adult will assist with facilitating the transportation of the impaired student to the Deans of Students Office or the Health Center. All parties involved are asked to treat information about the incident with confidentiality. Sanctuary is only available to students who are voluntarily seeking assistance or who have been reported by others to be in need of immediate assistance.
Following a student claiming sanctuary, the Health Center, Dean of Students, and the school counselor will discuss the incident and the care provided. A counselor will meet with the student who claimed sanctuary (or for whom sanctuary is being sought) to discuss the events leading up to the incident. Following an assessment, the counselor or our psychiatric consultant will make a recommendation to the student’s family. The student’s room will be searched in order to remove any substances and additional counseling or drug testing may occur.
In extreme circumstances, the Dean of Students may determine that, for the health of the community, a sanctuary cannot be granted, because the severity of the circumstances warrants disciplinary action. For example, if a student who claims sanctuary is found to have been distributing drugs or alcohol, disciplinary action would be taken.
Sanctuary will generally be granted only once during a student’s time at Avon; however, the safety and well- being of our students is paramount and the School has the ability to make a decision to expand this option. It is imperative that if a student is at risk from drugs or alcohol, they must receive help as soon as possible.
XVI. Other Level 1 (Major) Violations
As noted elsewhere in the Handbook, there are certain rules that the School deems as particularly important for the well-being of the individual and the community. These expectations and rules represent the most important standards of our community (honesty, safety/health, and respect for others) and are therefore classified as Level 1, or major school rule violations. Our disciplinary system tries to balance what is best for the individual student with what is best for the community.
The facts and circumstances involving a Level 1 violation will be reviewed by the Dean’s Inquiry and Review process. Any violations in the following areas will usually result in the student being presented to the Discipline Committee. If the Discipline Committee concludes that the student committed a Level 1 offense, he should anticipate probable dismissal from school.
When a student is disciplined, a letter of misconduct that documents the incident and the expectations of future conduct will be placed in the student’s record.
1. Violation of the law/illegal conduct: A student at Avon must abide by federal, state, and local laws. Enrollment at Avon constitutes a student’s acceptance of these regulations as the guiding principles for proper conduct. Student behavior on or off campus that may have violated any federal, state, or local law, or yields a complaint from others alleging law violations or student misconduct will be reviewed by the School.
3. Theft: If it is determined that a student has been stealing, he will ordinarily be dismissed from school immediately.
4. Bullying, Hazing, and Harassment: The School expects all community members to treat one another with respect and strictly prohibits any form of bullying, hazing, harassment, or other threatening, unkind, or intimidating behavior.
The School recognizes that words and actions have the power to negatively impact others, and therefore expect that all students will refrain from any action or speech that discriminates, attacks, disparages, demeans, intimidates, or deliberately mischaracterizes an individual or group. These actions, in any form, will not be tolerated within the School community.
Bullying is defined as subjecting another student to direct or indirect action or speech that is severe, persistent, or pervasive and that causes 1) physical or emotional harm or 2) reasonable fear of physical or emotional harm or 3) infringes on the rights or opportunities of another student at the School. Bullying can be physical or verbal and can include cyberbullying, through the inappropriate use of social media or other forms of technology, whether on campus or off campus.
Harassment and Discrimination: Avon Old Farms School is committed to establishing a community environment that respects diversity, encourages people of different backgrounds and beliefs to understand and respect one another, and is free from discrimination and harassment, through either words or actions. The School therefore prohibits harassment or discrimination in accordance with applicable law and will not tolerate harassment or discrimination of any kind by or toward any student, faculty, employee, or visitor to the campus whether on the basis of another person’s race, color, sex, national and ethnic origin, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by law. Such behavior creates a harmful environment and may also be a violation of the law. Harassment may take many forms and may be verbal, physical, written, or non-verbal in nature and can include: the use of derogatory or ethnic slurs, jokes, gestures; inappropriate touching; statements, pictures or videos based on race, sex, national origin, or other protected classifications that are subjectively and objectively offensive.
It is important to understand that online conduct, including social networking sites, is held to the same standard as personal conduct on campus as well as off campus. Therefore, posting derogatory or offensive comments about other people or about the School, or inappropriate artwork, videos, or photographs to the web or through email is not allowed. Any student found posting this type of information to any website or social network, or who uses social media to violate school rules, will be referred to the Discipline Committee and may be dismissed from school.
Any student who believes he has been subjected to bullying, hazing, harassment, or other similar mistreatment is encouraged to report such conduct to his advisor, dean, or other trusted adult within the School. This information will be brought to the Dean of Students as well as the Associate Head of School for an inquiry and to ensure the immediate safety of the student(s) involved.
Engaging in behavior considered to be bullying, hazing, or harassment, particularly if such behavior is based upon protected characteristics such as race, color, national origin, religion, or any other characteristic protected by law is a most serious offense and will ordinarily result in dismissal from School.
5. Sexual Harassment, Assault, or Inappropriate Sexual Behavior: The School expressly prohibits any form of sexual harassment, including any form of sexual misconduct, sexual assault, or other inappropriate sexual behavior, whether by students, faculty, other school employees, or anyone in our School community. In the School setting, sexual harassment is behavior that is sexual in nature, is unwelcome, and denies or limits a student’s ability to participate in or benefit from the School’s programs. Sexual misconduct is considered a more egregious form of sexual harassment, including, but not limited to, sexual assault.
Sexual harassment can be verbal, nonverbal, or physical and may include harassment based on sexual orientation. Examples of sexual harassment may include, but are not limited to: suggestive or lewd remarks; touching of a sexual nature; telling sexual or dirty jokes; spreading sexual rumors; circulating or showing emails or websites of a sexual nature; displaying, recording, or distributing sexually explicit drawings, pictures, videos, images, or written materials; and most serious, sexual assault.
In addition to harassment, the School also prohibits any sexual behavior or conduct that is inappropriate given the ages of the student(s) involved and the nature of the activity, regardless of consent. Students should be aware that even consensual sexual activity between an individual between 13 and 16 years of age and someone more than three years older may be considered sexual assault under state law.
Any student who violates this policy against sexual harassment, or engages in inappropriate sexual activity or sexual misconduct, up to and including sexual assault, is subject to discipline, including dismissal from school and/or involvement of law enforcement.
Any student who believes he (or someone else) has been subjected to sexual harassment or misconduct, including sexual assault or other inappropriate sexual behavior, is encouraged to report such conduct to his advisor, dean, or other trusted adult within the School. This information will be brought to the Dean of Students as well as the Associate Head of School for an inquiry and to ensure the immediate safety of the student(s) involved.
Allegations of violations of the School’s Sexual Harassment and Sexual Misconduct Policy may be investigated in accordance with the School’s typical disciplinary process or through the use of an external investigator at the discretion of the School. Investigations will include interviews with relevant parties and will be conducted in a manner designed to protect the privacy of those involved. If a student is found to be responsible for having engaged in Sexual Harassment or Sexual Misconduct, the School will issue a disciplinary decision that includes a summary of the relevant findings. Retaliation against any individual bringing a good faith complaint of sexual harassment or sexual misconduct, or anyone participating in the investigation of such complaints, is strictly prohibited.
6. Dangerous Conduct/Weapons: Student(s) who engage in any conduct that creates risk of harm to self or others, which may include intentional or reckless actions, may face disciplinary action. Students may not have firearms, facsimile firearms, ammunition, knives, or weapons of any type on the School campus. Violations of this policy are serious and may lead to dismissal from school.
7. Prescription Medications/Non-Approved Over-the-Counter Medications: Students may not have any prescribed medication or non-approved over-the-counter medication in their dorm room (see medication policy for specifics). Certain prescribed medication must be stored in the Health Center and administered or distributed by Health Center staff consistent with a doctor’s order.
If a student is found with any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medication not allowed in the student’s possession, and was not approved by the Health Center, this will be considered a violation of the School’s Drug and Alcohol Policy and the Dean of Students will be notified. The student will be required to appear before the Discipline Committee where dismissal will be likely.
A Level 2 violation is an action that will result in a Dean’s Review. The specifics of the situation will be reviewed and investigated in the Dean’s Inquiry. Depending on the specific circumstances of the incident, and student involvement, the student(s) may be required to appear before the DC.
When a student is disciplined, a letter of misconduct which documents the incident, any consequences and the expectations for future conduct will be placed in the student’s record. A student’s failure to meet the expectations described below will typically be considered a Level 2 violation and will be treated accordingly.
1. Community Expectations: In addition to attending all of their classes, students are expected to meet various commitments each day. Morning Meeting, lunch, athletics, residential life programs, and Vespers are all important aspects of an Avon Old Farms education. It is the School’s belief that students who embrace these programs will glean the most from their Avon experience and be best prepared for success at Avon and throughout their adult lives. In the event that a student is negligent about meeting commitments, he may be required to complete community service, be assigned to Saturday Night Study Hall, or appear before the DC.
The School will provide ongoing education to our students concerning their community responsibilities concerning COVID. It is important that each student understands his responsibilities and follows the health and safety standards that may be modified throughout the year to mitigate impact to the campus.
Repeated or willful violations of COVID procedures by a student represents a health and safety issue to the entire School community. If a student continues to be non-compliant with the clear standards, he will be directed to a Dean’s Inquiry that likely will result in discipline. In addition, he may be sent home until he is able and willing to comply with the community expectations.
2. Physical Conflict/Altercations: Physical confrontations between students will not be tolerated. Students must resolve conflicts without resorting to physical means. Offenders will be disciplined and may be required to appear before the DC.
3. Improper Checkout: Students are allowed to formally check out to leave campus (reference Community Life Section). Students must use the School Suite Application each time they request to leave campus. The student must sign out in person with a dorm head or designated administrator prior to leaving campus. If a student fails to check out properly or leaves campus without proper permission, the incident will be reviewed by the Dean of Students and a recommendation will be made to handle the situation at the dean’s level or have the student appear before the DC. A second violation of this policy will require the student to appear before the DC.
4. Cars: Boarding students may not have an automobile, or access to an automobile, on or in the vicinity of campus during the school year. Boarding students are also not allowed to ride in a car driven by a person under 21 years of age, including day students, without specific permission from the Associate Head of School. Violation of this rule may lead to appearance before the DC.
Day students may have automobiles for transportation only. The vehicles must be registered with the Office of the Associate Head of School, and day students are prohibited from having boarding student passengers. If a day student transports a boarding student in his car without specific permission, they may both be required to appear before the DC.
On rare occasions, the associate Head of School’s permission may be obtained for a day student to drive a boarding student by both parents/guardians signing a consent form and having those forms on file in the Office of the Associate Head of School.
Day students must park in the rink or library parking lots upon arrival and must not leave campus until they have completed their final commitment each day. Driving an automobile to and from school is a privilege. Any day student who abuses the privilege will forfeit his right to drive on campus.
5. Insubordination: A student who demonstrates non-compliant, defiant, challenging, or offensive conduct or language toward a faculty/staff member will be held accountable for his words or actions. This may include argumentative/disrespectful language toward faculty/staff or rude behavior toward a visitor. Offenders will be disciplined and may be required to appear before the DC.
6. Classroom Conduct: The School has high standards and expectations for classroom conduct. A working learning environment is fundamental to the School’s mission; therefore, the School takes a firm position on any disruption caused by inappropriate classroom behavior. The first violation of inappropriate classroom behavior will result in a meeting with the academic deans and the student’s advisor. Subsequent violations may result in additional discipline, up to and including an appearance before the DC, and may result in dismissal from school.
7. Dress Code: Standards for a formal dress code and personal hygiene benefit students and the school community in many ways. Appropriate dress and grooming are important factors in reflecting a positive image in the School community, maintaining a healthy campus, and helping contribute to a distraction-free learning environment. The Dean of Students will determine if an article of clothing meets the School’s dress code. Students’ physical appearance must comply with the norm as defined by the School administration. Students are required to be clean-shaven and wear their hair at a reasonable length off the collar and above the ears as deemed acceptable by the School administration. Dyed hair is not allowed. Offenders will be disciplined and may be required to appear before the DC.
Classroom and sit-down meals: Students are expected to dress neatly in sport coats, dress pants, ties, dress shirts, belts, socks, and closed-toe non-white dress shoes, leather or canvas shoes (sneakers/white canvas are not acceptable). Shirts must be tucked in, and pants and shorts must be worn at the waist or upper hip and must not reveal any underclothing. Sandals, sneakers, and jeans do not meet our dress code for classes or meals, except for casual dress meals.
Vespers: Blue blazer (with official school patch), white shirt, school tie, dark gray trousers, black socks, black belt, and shined black leathers shoes (no canvas or sneakers).
Smart Casual: Classroom dress without the sport jacket and tie, with belt, socks and leather or canvas shoes (sneakers/white canvas are not acceptable).
Prohibited Clothing: Hooded sweatshirts may not be worn under sport coats and the wearing of hats is not permitted inside any buildings. Earrings or body-piercing jewelry may not be worn at school.
8. Guests on Campus: A guest must have a specific invitation (verbal or otherwise) from an Avon student and is required to check in with the Administrator on Duty (AOD) at the beginning of their visit on campus. If a student invites a guest to campus, he is responsible to remain with him/her for his/her entire visit. Although guests are not allowed in dormitory rooms or dormitory common rooms, students and their guests are invited to visit the Student Center as directed by the AOD. Students are responsible for the conduct of their guest(s), as well as their own, during the visitor’s time on campus. Proper behavior is expected at all times, and improper behavior may lead to discipline. The same guidelines apply for Avon students visiting friends at other schools. In either case, all schools expect that hosts and guests will adhere to school rules and behave in an appropriate manner. Offenders will be disciplined and may be required to appear before the DC.
9. Pattern of Misconduct: If a student demonstrates a pattern of misconduct that violates school rules, as determined by the Deans or Associate Head of School, that student may be subject to discipline and/or required to meet before the DC.
10. Electronics, Mobile Devices, Social Media, and Sexting: Students are expected to use the School’s network, computer systems, personal electronic devices, and/or any digital platforms used by the School for distance learning in a responsible manner in accordance with all School rules.
All students should have read the Avon Old Farms School Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) during the online enrollment process. This policy is strictly enforced. The AUP is available on the online enrollment portal as well as the AOF website.
Student computers connecting to the School’s network must have a current version of antivirus software and computers should be kept free of adware. Systems suspected of causing network outages or slowdowns will be disconnected from the network and inspected by a member of the technology department. Access to network closets is strictly prohibited and anyone suspected of gaining access to a network closet will be disciplined.
Social Media: It is important to understand that online conduct, including use of social networking sites, is held to the same standard as personal conduct on or off campus. Students are expected to abide by School rules whether engaged in in person or on campus activities, or through use of online, electronic or social media sites. (Please refer to the Bullying, Hazing, Harassment Section for an understanding of these actions in relation to the School community or other students).
Mobile Devices: Mobile devices are permitted on campus, but students may not use them during restricted study times in the dorms, during class (unless authorized by the teacher), walking on campus, or in the Refectory. The use of mobile devices is also prohibited during presentations, concerts, plays, standardized tests, Morning Meeting, chapel, etc. Students violating the conditions of mobile device use may have their mobile devices confiscated. Mobile devices should never be used for taking video or photos without express consent of those being photographed or recorded.
The School Suite App is required to be installed on each student’s mobile device. This App serves as a platform for information sharing, such as the daily schedule, meal times, weekend activities, safety information, and is used to request local and weekend leaves (if permitted).
Sexting: The School prohibits students from using technology devices (whether owned by the student or the School, and whether through the use of the School’s network or outside of the School’s network, and whether used on or off campus) to send any written message or image that contains explicit representations or references to sexual conduct, sexual excitement, or nudity (commonly known as sexting). Connecticut law prohibits anyone (regardless of age) from disseminating obscene or pornographic images of minors, and the School may contact law enforcement should any student violate this policy.
11. Leaving Dormitories after Check: Students are required to be in their own dormitories by 10:30 p.m. Sunday through Friday and by 11 p.m. on Saturday nights. Students may not be out of their dormitories and/or rooms after check. Leaving the dorm after check violates a major school rule and will be subject to disciplinary action including suspension from School.
12. Use of Headphones: Avon Old Farms is known for having friendly students who say ‘hello’ to one another, welcome visitors to campus, and engage with one another. Understanding this, students are NOT allowed to wear headphones while walking around campus. If a student is found to be wearing headphones on campus, the headphones will be confiscated and held for a minimum of 24 hours. Headphones ARE allowed while 34
13. Tobacco: If a student is determined to be using or in possession of tobacco (in any form), he will be restricted to campus and be required to attend a Saturday Night Study Hall. A second offense will result in additional discipline and mandatory counseling. Further offenses will be addressed through the Deans of Students Office.
14. Electronic Cigarettes and Vaping: Electronic cigarettes, including Juuls, or vaping are not allowed on campus. If a student is determined to be using or in possession of an electronic cigarette, the device will be confiscated, tested for the presence of drugs, and the student’s room and possessions may be searched. The student will also be required to submit to a drug test.
If the student fails the drug test or if the device contains evidence of drugs, it will be treated as a violation of our drug and alcohol policy. If a student passes the drug test, and if the substance is not determined to contain evidence of drugs, he will be required to work three Sunday Work Crews. In this situation, the student will not be allowed to take local leaves or overnight leaves until he has completed all work crews.
If there are multiple students present and no one admits to owning the device, all students present will be subject to the penalties/consequences as described above.
If a student is found to be selling or otherwise distributing electronic cigarettes or associated paraphernalia to other students, he will be required to appear before the Discipline Committee.
13. Open Flame: Any type of open flame is prohibited on campus, including matches, lighters, campfires, cigarettes, cigars, candles, especially in or near the dormitories/buildings due to safety factors. The circumstances will be reviewed and the student will be disciplined based on the facts of the incident.
