AB 500 Employee Student Interactions Policy

Davis Waldorf School Code of Conduct and Non-Discrimination Philosophy

We are committed to maintaining an environment in which all students and adults are treated with dignity and respect.  Whether on campus or participating in a school event off campus, community members may not engage in criminal acts, hostility, use of profanity, conduct which is offensive or unwelcome, physical violence, taunts, threats, intimidation, verbal harassment or any other forms of malicious or hurtful behavior, racial or sexual harassment, the use of insults relating to race, religion, sex or gender, gender identity, gender expression, nationality, race or ethnicity, sexual orientation or any other characteristic that is contained in the definition of hate crimes according to state and federal law.

The Davis Waldorf School believes that no person should be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subject to discrimination in any educational program or activity available in the School on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, age, marital or familial status, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, veteran status, gender, gender identity, gender expression, nationality, race or ethnicity, or any other protected characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including that which is contained in the definition of hate crimes set forth in Section 422.55 of the California State Penal Code.  Students may participate in sex-segregated school programs, activities and facilities including athletic teams consistent with their gender identity regardless of the gender listed on school records. For the purpose of this Code of Conduct, “facilities” includes restrooms and sleeping facilities for school activities (field trips), etc.

Davis Waldorf School further believes that individuals with disabilities are entitled to full and equal access, as other members of the general public, to the School’s services, privileges, and/or advantages, etc., subject to the conditions and limitations established by law, or state and federal regulation. 

Communication between Teachers and Students

In the classroom and throughout all school activities, we expect that the communication from the teacher to the student is clear and loving with definite and well-understood boundaries. Teachers exercise authority in the classroom in different ways as students journey through the school. The three approaches to authority – imitation, guidance, and respect for expertise – provide the context for communication in the classroom or school. Teachers, as role models for the students, should always strive to show respect, care and responsibility in their communications and interactions with students, parents/guardians, and with each other. If a teacher does not follow these guidelines or adhere to the DWS Code of Conduct, it will result in disciplinary action, up to and including probation, suspension, or dismissal.

Teachers expect students to respect others, the school, and themselves, and to reflect this respect in their actions, manner, and speech. Teachers will manage disrespectful communication in the moment. Should serious disrespectful communication occur or breach the DWS Code of Conduct, the parents/guardians will be notified.  If concerns persist, the teacher will consult the Student Support Group. If the issue persists, it may result in disciplinary action, up to and including probation, suspension, or expulsion of the student.

Social Media Communication

Teachers and employees are prohibited from “friending” or interacting with current students via social media and posting or sharing any pictures of students without parental consent. Teachers may post pictures of students on a class share site or on the DWS Facebook page, or on the DWS Instagram.  As part of the enrollment contract, parents/guardians sign a photo release waiver.  If you would like to withdraw your consent, please contact the school Registrar to edit your contract.  

Prohibited Conduct

Some of the School’s foundational objectives include providing an orderly and efficient operation, protecting the rights and safety of all employees, students, parents and other visitors, maintaining uninterrupted service to the students, and protecting the School’s public image, good will and property.

Prohibited conduct standards that pertain specifically to student and teacher interactions is included below: 

• Threatening, assaulting, fighting, harassing, intimidating, coercing or other acts which may result in injury to an employee, student, parent or visitor to the School
• Use of abusive or vulgar language

• Stealing or removing without permission School property or the property of students, other employees or visitors.

Mandatory Reporting of Suspected Child Abuse

All School faculty and staff are required to immediately report any suspected child abuse to the Yolo County welfare department. The Child Abuse Reporting Law requires faculty and staff to report any suspected abuse to the proper authorities.