Student Code of Conduct

Atlanta Public Schools has constructed school discipline policies that are aimed at creating a positive environment that supports the social and emotional development of students, and teaches non-violence and respect for all members of the school community. Our approach to discipline reflects our desire to understand and address the causes of behavior, resolve conflicts, repair harm done, restore relationships, and successfully reintegrate students into the school community.

Students May Expect

• To receive a free high-quality public education
• To be safe at school
• To be treated courteously and respectfully
• To bring complaints or concerns to the school principal or staff for resolution
• To tell their side of the story before receiving a consequence
• To be told the reason(s) for any disciplinary action verbally and in writing
• To be given information about appealing disciplinary actions
• To express opinions, support causes, and discuss issues

Student Responsibilities

• To read and become familiar with this Code of Conduct
• To attend school daily, prepare for class, and complete class and homework assignments to the best of their ability
• To know and follow school rules and instructions given by the school principal, teachers, and other staff
• To tell school staff about any dangerous behavior or bullying that occurs at school, on the way to and from school, or in the community
• To treat everyone in the school community with respect
• To respect school property, community property, and the property of others

Parents/Guardians May Expect

• To be actively involved in their child’s education
• To be treated respectfully by all APS employees and staff
• To access information about APS (Board) policies and procedures
• To be notified promptly if their child is disciplined for inappropriate or disruptive behavior and informed of the consequences assigned
• To appeal disciplinary actions taken by the student disciplinary hearing officer
• To receive information about their child’s academic and behavioral progress

Parent/Guardian Responsibilities

• To read and become familiar with this Code of Conduct
• To make sure their child attends school regularly, on time, and to notify the school before the school day begins if their child is absent
• To give the school accurate and current contact information and inform/update that contact information when and if it changes
• To tell school officials about any concerns or complaints respectfully and in a timely manner
• To work with the school principal, teachers, and other staff to address any academic or behavioral concerns regarding their child
• To talk with their child about the behavior expected in school
• To support their child’s learning and school activities at home
• To be respectful and courteous to all APS employees and staff
• To respect other students’ privacy rights

• Anti-Semitism: Atlanta Public Schools has adopted the definition of Antisemitism pursuant to Georgia House Bill 30 and the working definition adopted by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA).
• Appeal: A request for the Superintendent and the Atlanta Board of Education to review a hearing officer’s disciplinary determination. The hearing officer’s decision may be appealed by submitting a written letter to the attention of the Superintendent, at 130 Trinity Avenue, Atlanta, Georgia 30303, within 20 days from the date the decision is made.
• Behavioral Correction Plan: A set of behavioral intervention strategies for students identified as chronic-disciplinary-problem students.
• Behavior Intervention Plan: A set of strategies to support special education students with inappropriate classroom behaviors.
• Bus Suspension: The student is suspended from riding the bus. During this time the parent/guardian is responsible for providing transportation to and from school.
• Detention: A teacher-managed disciplinary response where the student is required to attend a session before school, after school, or during an extracurricular activity.
• Expulsion: Removal of a student from school beyond the current school quarter or semester.
• Districtwide Probation Contract: A contract assigned to a student who has violated the district Code of Conduct repeatedly, or referred for and/or appeared before a Student Disciplinary Hearing, or has been allowed to return to the home school during a trial period in which student must conduct themself in a way that meets the school disciplinary code. Districtwide Probation can only be assigned by the District Discipline Coordinator.
• Hearing Officer: The individual(s) appointed to conduct a Student Discipline Hearing, determine whether a discipline rule violation occurred, and appropriate consequences for violations.
• In-School Suspension (ISS): The removal of a student from his/her class for at least half a school day by the principal or a designee and assignment to a location supervised by appropriate personnel in another room on the school premises for a period not exceeding ten (10) consecutive school days.
• Out-of-School Suspension (OSS): A disciplinary measure that prohibits the student from attending school. Students assigned to OSS are not permitted to participate in extracurricular activities on the date of their OSS assignment.
• Long-Term Suspension: The removal of a student from school for more than 10 days because the student violated the Code of Conduct.
• Manifestation Determination: A review of an exceptional education/504 student’s program and disability to determine if misconduct is caused by, or has a direct and substantial relationship to, the disability, or whether the conduct was the direct result of the school’s failure to implement the IEP.
• Revocation (of District-Wide Probation): The offer for the student to remain in their assigned school during the term of their probation period, serving probation as their discipline consequence, is withdrawn.
• Permanent Expulsion: Expulsion from all Atlanta Public Schools for the remainder of the student’s eligibility to attend school pursuant to Georgia law.
• Restorative Practices: Strategies and programs that emphasize repairing harms, building relationships, and promoting the importance of learning in the classroom.
• Social-Emotional Learning: The process of increasing awareness in dealing with oneself, others, and relationships in an effective way.
• Stay-Away Agreement: A standard agreement entered into between students to set parameters for restricted interactions for a set period of time.
• Short-Term Suspension: The involuntary removal of a student from class attendance or school attendance for 10 days or less.
• Waiver: A document acknowledging that the parent/guardian has agreed to forgo the disciplinary hearing process and accept the school’s recommendations for a disciplinary response for the student’s misbehavior.

The student Code of Conduct shall be distributed electronically to all students, parents and guardians for the 2026-2027 school year.

The parents/guardians shall acknowledge receipt of the Code of Conduct using the electronic acknowledgement form in the Infinite Campus parent portal. A parent/guardian who does not acknowledge receipt of the Student Code of Conduct shall not be released of any responsibility with respect to the information contained within the Code and failure to acknowledge receipt does not prevent a student from being charged with a rule violation and receiving discipline consequences. The Student Code of Conduct shall be available in the school office.

Students who commit an infraction will receive a disciplinary response. Disciplinary action and the length of the assignment will be progressive and will draw on the professional judgment of teachers and administrators and on a range of discipline management techniques, including positive behavior interventions and restorative practices. If a student/parent/guardian is uncertain as to the interpretation of the student Code of Conduct they should contact The Office of Student Discipline at 404-802-1951.

Disciplinary action will be related, but not limited, to the seriousness of the offense, the student’s age and grade level, the frequency of misbehavior, the student’s attitude, whether the student was acting in self-defense, the effect of the misconduct on the school environment, intent or lack of intent at the time the student engaged in the conduct, and requirements of law. As such, disciplinary responses may differ on a case by case basis.

Any and all violations of the Code of Conduct will be part of a student’s disciplinary record and may be used in a student disciplinary hearing pursuant to APS’s progressive discipline process.

The Student Behavior Code provides examples of offenses that may occur and is not intended to include all offenses for which disciplinary action may be taken as it is not possible to identify every behavior which might result in disciplinary consequences.

Location of Violations:

Except as otherwise provided herein, the following code provisions apply to offenses that students commit while on school property or while using school technology resources at any time.

School property includes, but is not limited to:

• The land and improvements which constitute the school
• Any other property or building, including school bus stops, any school function, event, or activity
• Any bus or other vehicle used in connection with school functions and activities, including but not limited to, buses leased by APS and privately owned vehicles used for transportation to and from school activities
• Personal belongings, automobiles, or other vehicles located on school property
• Off-campus locations if the behavior meets the definition of an off-campus behavior violation or directly affects the safety and welfare of the school community or the orderly mission and function of the school
• En route to the student’s home from school (Prior to imposing discipline regarding incidents occurring en route from school, administration should consult with the Office of Student Discipline)
• School computers/devices issued to the student, computers/devices owned by APS, school technology resources wherever located including, but not limited to, all distance learning platforms, websites, and programs.
• Technology resources/devices, wherever located if communications meet the definition of cyber-bullying pursuant to this Code of Conduct 28

Investigation of Misconduct:

When a Student Code of Conduct violation is reported or suspected, the principal or designee will determine whether the charge or complaint has a basis in fact and whether an investigation is warranted and, if so, will instruct appropriate personnel to conduct an investigation. The investigation may include, but is not limited to, an interview with the accused student(s), interviews with victim(s) and identified witnesses, if any, and interviews with others who might have relevant information. Written statements should be requested from all individuals who are interviewed. Video surveillance, if available and relevant, should be reviewed and secured. School police and other support staff may be utilized for their expertise as determined by the circumstances of the matter. If the local school administration is uncertain as to the interpretation of the Code of Conduct, they are to contact the Office of Student Discipline.

At an appropriate time during or after the investigation, the parent/guardian will be notified. However, if the incident involves an injury or similar situation, appropriate medical attention should be provided, and the parent/guardian should be notified immediately. The principal or their designee should also immediately inform parents/guardians when students are removed from the school setting by emergency medical or law enforcement personnel.

The determination of whether or not a student has violated the Student Code of Conduct will be made based solely on a preponderance of the evidence. In other words, it is more likely to be true than not true, based on the evidence, that the student did violate the rule. Once it has been determined that a rule(s) was violated, the administrator will follow the progressive discipline process. Repeated level 3 disciplinary violations may result in a student being referred to a disciplinary hearing where the student may face discipline consequences up to and including long-term suspension or expulsion.

Searches: In accordance with APS administrative regulation JCDAF-R(1), school officials may search a student if there is reasonable suspicion the student is in possession of an item that is illegal or against school rules. Student vehicles brought onto any APS campus, student book bags, school lockers, desks, technology devices, cell phones, purses, bags and other school property are subject to inspection and search by school authorities at any time without further notice to students or parents/guardians. Students are required to cooperate if asked to open book bags, lockers, or any vehicle brought on campus. A student’s refusal to cooperate with a search could result in a decision by the school administrator to involve the school resource officer or local law enforcement. Students who disrupt or refuse to cooperate with general or reasonable suspicion searches may be referred for disciplinary action. Students who refuse to cooperate with searches of technology devices and/or cell phones may face consequences including, but not limited to, confiscation of the device or phone and loss of privilege of carrying any personal technology devices or cell phones on campus for a period of one calendar year. Alternative schools may use specialized searching procedures and criteria as allowed by law and as designated by the alternative school.

If a search yields illegal or unauthorized materials, such materials should be turned over in person to an APS Police Department school resource officer.

APS assumes no liability for the theft, loss, or damage of mobile telephones, PEDs, unauthorized materials/objects/contraband possessed by students on school property or held by school officials during the confiscation period. APS assumes no liability for the theft, loss or damage of items possessed by students on school property or held by school officials during the confiscation period. APS employees will not be responsible for searching for lost or stolen student property.

Progressive Discipline:

The school discipline process should include appropriate consideration of support processes to help students resolve issues that may be contributing to violations to the Student Code of Conduct. These resources may include, but are not limited to, MTSS, positive behavioral supports, restorative practices, counseling with school counselor, school social worker intervention, behavior, attendance and academic contracts and plans, peer mediation, and prevention programs.

The offenses have been organized into four levels of prohibited behaviors: LEVEL 1 discipline (minor) offenses, LEVEL 2 discipline (intermediate) offenses, LEVEL 3 discipline (moderate) offenses, LEVEL 4 discipline (serious) offenses. Behaviors that implicate Title IX regulations (as implemented) will be managed as discussed in https://www.atlantapublicschools.us/about/departments/division-of-schools/student-services/title-ix.

LEVEL 1 offenses are generally MINOR acts of misconduct and may represent a failure to demonstrate universally defined expectations or social skills. Following appropriate teacher intervention, students may be referred to an administrator.

LEVEL 1 DISCIPLINE RESTORATIVE/CORRECTIVE ONLY.	MINIMUM	MAXIMUM
School-based interventions/support and the following:
Elementary	Restorative Practices and Administrative Intervention	Restorative Practices
Middle/High	Restorative Practices and Administrative Intervention	Restorative Practices

LEVEL 2 is used for INTERMEDIATE acts of misconduct. These include acts directed against people or property that do not seriously endanger the health or safety of others and serious disruptions of school order. Unique, serious, or multiple offenses may result in the offense being considered a Level 3 offense.

LEVEL 2 DISCIPLINE SHORT-TERM DISCIPLINARY CONSEQUENCES.	MINIMUM	MAXIMUM
School-based interventions/support and the following:
Elementary	Restorative Practices and/or up to 2 days In-School Suspension	Up to three days of Out-of School Suspension
Middle/High	Restorative Practices and/or up to 2 days Out-of-School Suspension	Up to three days of Out-of School Suspension

LEVEL 3 is used for MODERATE acts of misconduct that place students or staff at risk of emotional or physical harm, which may include threats to the health, safety, and/or property of others, and other acts of serious and repeated misconduct. Consequences may include out-of-school suspension and a disciplinary hearing referral or Title IX Grievance Process (as applicable) with a recommendation for further actions such as long-term suspension, expulsion, and/or assignment to an alternative education program. Behaviors that implicate Title IX regulations (as implemented) will be managed as discussed in www.atlantapublicschools.us/about/departments/division-of-schools/student-services/title-ix. 29

LEVEL 3 DISCIPLINE SIGNIFICANT SHORT-TERM SUSPENSION (UP TO 10 DAYS).	MINIMUM	MAXIMUM
School-based interventions/support and the following:
Elementary	Up to 3 days Out-of-School Suspension	Up to 10 days Out-of-School Suspension
Middle/High	Up to 5 days Out-of-School Suspension	Up to 10 days Out-of-School Suspension

LEVEL 4 is used for SERIOUS acts of misconduct that significantly threaten the safety, security, or well-being of students, staff, or the school community. These offenses require an automatic referral for a disciplinary hearing and may result in consequences such as long-term suspension, expulsion, assignment to an alternative education program, and/or the Title IX Grievance Process. Behaviors that implicate Title IX regulations (as implemented) will be managed as discussed in www.atlantapublicschools.us/about/departments/division-of-schools/student-services/title-ix.

LEVEL 4 DISCIPLINE HEARING-REQUIRED OFFENSES WITH CONSEQUENCES DETERMINED THROUGH DUE PROCESS.	MINIMUM	MAXIMUM
School-based interventions/support and referral for a disciplinary hearing
Elementary	Referral to a Level 4 disciplinary hearing	Long-term suspension, expulsion, or other disciplinary action as determined through the disciplinary hearing process
Middle/High	Referral to a Level 4 disciplinary hearing	Long-term suspension, expulsion, or other disciplinary action as determined through the disciplinary hearing process

Discipline Hearings:

Any student who is suspended 10 days pending a student disciplinary hearing will be provided with classwork and assignments that they can complete and return for a grade. The time period for completion of assignments should be coordinated with the teacher.

Student Discipline Hearings:

Discipline Team Conference: Where a disciplinary hearing is required by law or when a Principal recommends a long-term out of school suspension/ expulsion (more than 10 school days of out of school suspension) and a disciplinary hearing is scheduled, a parent conference will be offered within three (3) school days of the first day of suspension. Legal counsel for student and/or parent is not allowed. The principal/designee should be prepared to offer and discuss the investigation completed by the school, the discipline procedures afforded and any witness/student statements; as well as the current status of the student’s conduct and academic status. Please Note: a parent conference is not required before a discipline matter proceeds to a disciplinary hearing and failure of school administration to offer such conference shall not disqualify the hearing in any manner or the results of any hearing.

Composition: Disciplinary hearings will be heard by a disciplinary hearing officer, panel, or a tribunal of school officials.

Timing and Continuances: The hearing should be held within ten (10) school days after the first day of suspension unless Student Discipline and the parent/guardian mutually agree to an extension. Any request for a continuance must be made in writing to the Director of Student Discipline or designee. Additionally, the infraction must be entered into Infinite Campus (IC) within twenty-four (24) hours, and the request for a hearing must be submitted through the portal within 48 hours.

Written Notice of Hearing: When a disciplinary hearing is required, Student Discipline shall provide written notice of the relevant procedures to the student’s parent/guardian/student age 18 or older. Delivery of Notification: The notice of hearing shall be delivered to the student and his/her parent/guardian either in person or by mail to the last known address of the parent or guardian.

Group Hearing: When students are charged with violating the same rule(s) and have acted in concert, and the facts are similar for all students, a group hearing may be conducted for them if the Director of Student Discipline believes that no student will have his/her interests substantially prejudiced by a group hearing. Any student who objects to participation in a group hearing should notify Student Discipline in writing no less than 48 hours before the hearing.

Record of Proceedings: A verbatim record of the hearing shall be made and shall be available to all parties upon request.

Hearing Attendees: Student disciplinary hearings are confidential and are not open to the public.

Burden of Proof: The burden of proof is a preponderance of the evidence (more likely than not) and shall be on the school.

Legal Representation/Involvement of an Attorney at the Disciplinary Hearing: The student/parent/guardian must notify Student Discipline not less than 48 hours prior to the hearing if the student may be represented by an attorney. Failure to give such notice can result in the hearing being continued.

Procedural Objections: Objection to the sufficiency of the notice and/or other procedural objections shall be waived unless written notice thereof is filed with Student Discipline no less than 24 hours prior to the time the hearing is scheduled to begin. The hearing may be postponed until such defects have been removed or remedied.

Decisions: The hearing officer, panel or tribunal, after conducting the hearing and receiving all evidence, shall render a decision based solely on the evidence received at the hearing and shall determine what, if any, disciplinary action shall be taken. Such action may include, but is not limited to, assignment to alternative school, short-term suspension, long-term suspension, expulsion or permanent expulsion.

Sanctions: The hearing officer, panel or tribunal may consider the student’s entire student record to include the academic, disciplinary and attendance to determine the appropriate punishment or sanction to be imposed.

Appeals: Any party may appeal the hearing decision to the Board by filing a written notice of appeal addressed to the attention of the Superintendent within twenty (20) calendar days of the date of decision. Only written appeal submissions received within the 20-day deadline specified in OCGA §20-2-754 will be considered. No party requesting an appeal may submit additional arguments or materials for consideration by the Board after the 20-day deadline without approval of the Superintendent or designee. Appeals by the administration must be approved by the Superintendent. If granted, the Board will discuss the appeal in Executive Session. The Board’s review will be based solely on the record. The Board shall not hear any oral arguments as part of any appeal nor shall it consider any evidence that was not presented at the disciplinary hearing. The Board may take any action it deems appropriate and has the power to affirm, reverse, or modify in any respect the decision reached.

Any party may appeal the Board’s decision to the State Board of Education pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 20-2-1160 (b) through (f) and regulations of the Georgia Board of Education governing such appeals. If an appeal to the State Board is requested, a written transcript of the disciplinary hearing will be prepared and submitted to the State Board. The decision of the Board will not be suspended during the State Board appeal period.

Expedited Appeals: Any party may appeal their hearing decision directly to the Superintendent, by emailing their appeal request within five (5) days from the date of the decision to the Superintendent at suptoffice@atlanta.k12.ga.us or hand-delivering the appeal to the Superintendent’s Office within five (5) days of the date of the hearing decision. Failure to submit the expedited appeal to all relevant parties as indicated may result in the appeal not being considered. All expedited appeals must be in writing and forth the reasons the Disciplinary Hearing Decision is considered to be incorrect, along with any supporting arguments. Additionally, expedited appeals must indicate “Superintendent Appeal” in writing at the top of the appeal. Failure to include this may result in the appeal being handled pursuant to Board appeal procedures. The appeal may be submitted by the appealing party or by an attorney representing the party. No new evidence or testimony will be considered, and no oral argument will be heard by the Superintendent. The Superintendent will review the record and make their decision based solely on the evidence submitted to the Hearing Officer. The Superintendent may impose more lenient consequences, the same consequences, or more severe consequences should they uphold the decision that the student violated the policies as charged. The Superintendent’s decision will be documented in writing, with copies provided to the student, parent/guardian, the Principal, and Office of Student Discipline within five (5) calendar days from the date the appeal was received. The Superintendent has the right to extend the deadline to issue their decision at their discretion up to an additional five (5) days. The Superintendent’s failure to issue a timely decision will not overturn or reverse any decision of the Hearing Officer. Parties submitting appeals are encouraged to closely monitor the deadline and submit an appeal to the Local Board if they are concerned about timeliness of the Superintendent’s decision. Expedited appeals to the Superintendent are optional. Parties may bypass an appeal to the Superintendent and appeal directly to the Local Board of Education if they so choose. Any party who submits an expedited appeal and is dissatisfied with the outcome may additionally submit an appeal to the Local Board within twenty (20) days of this original hearing decision. Submitting an expedited appeal does not toll the timeline to submit a Board appeal.

Any student found in violation of Battery of School Employee and/or Battery of School Employee Causing Physical Harm is not eligible for an expedited appeal.

Student Offenses:

A student shall not violate any of the following rules of APS. The disciplinary levels below correspond to the progressive discipline levels detailed above. However, in serious offenses, principals or designees working in conjunction with the Office of Student Discipline or an Associate Superintendent may use a higher level of progressive discipline. The Student Code of Conduct provides examples of offenses that may occur, but it is not intended to include all offenses for which disciplinary action may be taken, as it is not possible to identify every behavior which might result in disciplinary consequences.

Disciplinary actions for students whose parents/legal guardians have completed the Parental Consent & Acknowledgement Form are as follows:

• First violation: Verbal warning.
• Second violation: The device will be confiscated and the telephone or device will be returned only to the parent/legal guardian who must schedule a conference at the school to retrieve the item.
• Third violation: The device will be confiscated and will result in the student’s loss of the privilege of possessing a mobile telephone or PED on school property for one semester. Written notice will be mailed to the parent/guardian, and the telephone or device will be returned only to the parent/legal guardian who must schedule a conference at the school to retrieve the item.
• Fourth (or more) violation: The phone will be confiscated, and the student will lose the privilege of possessing a cellular telephone or PED on school property for one calendar year. Written notice will be mailed to the parent/guardian, and the telephone or device will be returned only to the parent/legal guardian who must schedule a conference at the school to retrieve the item.

Confiscated Property:

1. School officials may confiscate or seize any item a student brings onto campus, or is otherwise in the student’s possession on campus, if such item is:
   1. evidence of a discipline rule violation or suspected rule violation; or
   2. evidence of a crime or suspected crime, or
   3. is otherwise causing, has caused, or may cause disruption to students, staff or the school. The determination of whether any item is a disruption is at the discretion of school administration.
2. School administration or designee may obtain photographic or video imagining of any items seized/confiscated from a student and may retain such images as needed for discipline, criminal, or other school purposes.
3. If the seized/confiscated item is a personal electronic device and not confiscated by law enforcement, the device will only be returned to the student’s parent/guardian once the school has completed all investigative matters. The parent/guardian must come to the school to personally retrieve the device. Prior to return, any content on the personal electronic device that is considered illegal or in violation of the Code of Conduct, suspected of being illegal or in violation of the Code of Conduct, or evidence or suspected evidence of illegal activity or Code of Conduct violation(s) may be removed and or retained by School Administration and/or law enforcement.
4. Except as provided below, if the seized/confiscated item is not illegal/does not contain anything illegal or suspected of being so, and is an item that is generally permitted to be on campus, the item will be returned to the student at the end of the school day. Unless otherwise directed, upon dismissal, the student should report to the campus main administrative office to retrieve their seized/confiscated item.
5. The phone will be confiscated, and the student will lose the privilege of possessing a cellular telephone or PED on school property for one calendar year. Written notice will be mailed to the parent/guardian, and the telephone or device will be returned only to the parent/legal guardian who must schedule a conference at the school to retrieve the item.
6. If the seized item is illegal, contains anything illegal, suspected of being illegal or containing anything illegal, the item will be turned over to the Campus Police or Jurisdictional Law Enforcement Agency. In the event that law enforcement does not take possession of the seized item, and the seized item is otherwise prohibited on campus, is related to a violation of the Code of Conduct, or is suspected to be in violation of the Code of Conduct, the item may be altered/destroyed/disposed of by School Administration or Superintendent designee. No item or portion of an item that is illegal or suspected of being illegal will be returned to any student, parent/guardian, or other individual. Atlanta Public Schools is not responsible for the return of any item that is taken, seized, or confiscated by law enforcement
7. No vaping cartridges, cigarettes/tobacco products, food, candy, beverages or other item that can be ingested, consumed, or inhaled will be returned to any student, parent/guardian, or other individual. All such items will be destroyed by School Administration or Superintendent designee. With regard to vaping cartridges, if the cartridge cannot be separated from the battery/charging device, the entire item is subject to destruction.
8. Any seized/confiscated item that is not retrieved within 90 calendar days is subject to destruction/disposal by School Administration or Superintendent designee. No notice will be provided to parties prior to destruction.
9. Students are encouraged to leave any item of value at home and not bring any such item onto campus. Students are solely responsible and liable for any item they bring onto and/or possess on campus. Neither Atlanta Public Schools, the Board of Atlanta Public Schools, nor any employee, agent, or representative of Atlanta Public Schools is responsible for any item a student brings onto or possess while on campus. The School District will not reimburse a student for damage, alterations, and/or destruction of any item they bring onto campus that is seized/confiscated by a District employee or a law enforcement officer.

Chronic-Disciplinary-Problem Students:

A “chronic-disciplinary-problem student’ is defined by law as a student who exhibits a pattern of behavioral characteristics which interfere with the learning process of students around them and which are likely to recur. Any time a teacher or principal identifies a student as a chronic disciplinary-problem student, the principal shall inform the parent/ guardian of the student’s disciplinary problem. Notification should be by either first-class or certified mail (with return receipt requested) and a telephone call.

The principal should invite the parents/guardians to observe their child in a classroom situation. Also, the principal and at least one parent/guardian will meet to develop a disciplinary and behavioral correction plan.

Before such a student returns to school after suspension or expulsion, the principal/designee of that school and at least one parent/guardian will meet to develop a disciplinary and behavioral correction plan. At the discretion of the principal, a teacher, counselor, or other person may attend the conference.

The principal will note the conference in the student’s permanent file. Failure of the parent/guardian to attend shall not preclude the student from being readmitted to the school.

The school system may, by petition to the juvenile court, proceed against a parent/guardian of a chronic-disciplinary-problem student if school system personnel believe the parent/guardian has willfully and unreasonably failed to attend a conference requested by a principal..

Disciplined Students on Campus:

Students who are suspended or expelled are not allowed on school grounds to participate in regular school activities, extracurricular activities, athletic participation, and other school events. Students assigned to alternative school may not return to their home school or any other APS school to participate in school events without permission of the principal. Failure to adhere to this rule can result in the student receiving additional disciplinary charges and/or an increased disciplinary response.

Teacher Reporting

Teachers are required to file a report within one school day, with the principal or principal’s designee if they have a student that has exhibited behavior that repeatedly or substantially interferes with the teacher’s ability to communicate effectively with the students in their class or with the ability of such student’s classmates to learn, where such behavior is in violation of the Student Code of Conduct. The principal or the principal’s designee will, within one school day after receiving such a report, send to the student’s parents/guardians a copy of the report and information regarding how the student’s parents/guardians may contact the principal or the principal’s designee. For additional information visit https://codes.findlaw.com/ga/title-20-education/ga-code-sect-20-2-738

Removing Disruptive Students from the Classroom:

The Superintendent and principals shall, and do, fully support the authority of every teacher in their school(s) to remove a disruptive student from their class pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 20-2-738. The principal or the principal’s designee will respond when a student is referred by a teacher by employing appropriate discipline management techniques that are consistent with District policy, procedure and guidelines

Teacher Removal of Disruptive Student:

When a student is removed from the regular classroom, a conference will be scheduled within three school days between the student’s parent/ guardian, the teacher, and the student. During the conference the administrator will explain the grounds for the student’s removal from class and give the student the opportunity to explain their behavior. After the conference, the principal will notify the student and parents/guardians of the consequences of the Student Code of Conduct violation.

For a student with disabilities, including those with IEPs or 504 plans, the removal from class must be consistent with state and federal laws and regulations regarding students with disabilities. School staff should refer to additional processes maintained by the Office of Student Discipline for more information regarding implementation of the Removal Process. 31

CREATE SAFE, SUPPORTIVE & EQUITABLE LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS BY USING TENETS OF SEL, PBIS & RESTORATIVE PRACTICES

1. Be Clear with Expectation
   • co-create norms/essential agreements
   • create a positive behavior matrix
   • teach and model effective procedures & routines
2. Build Internal Social & Emotional Capacity
   • teach explicit SEL skill building lessons
   • model and integrate SEL skills and competencies
3. Honor Students' Identity Through Representation in the Physical Space & Instructional Resources
4. Adopt a Restorative Mindset
   • build healthy relationships with students
   • use effective statements to praise & reinforce positive behavior
5. Build a Culture of Trust & Communication
   • use impromptu conversations, proactive circles and problem-solving circles
   • listen to understand

NOTE: For the purpose of this policy, the term “repeatedly or substantially” shall be defined as a minimum of three incidents.

Reporting to Law Enforcement:

In addition to discipline of students by APS, student conduct may be reported to appropriate law enforcement authorities, including pursuant to O.C.G.A. 20-2-1184. Some Student Code of Conduct violations may also result in criminal charges. School disciplinary action will be independent of any criminal or juvenile court decisions. When it comes to the attention of APS that an offense has occurred which may constitute criminal behavior, the officials and employees of Atlanta Public Schools will cooperate with the police and other investigative agencies in providing and sharing information about the student to the degree that the official or the employee deems necessary and/or is governed by law. As required by the Georgia Legislature, APS encourages parents/ guardians to inform their children of the consequences, including potential criminal penalties, of underage sexual conduct and crimes for which a minor can be tried as an adult.

Discipline of Students In Pre-K Through Third Grade:

Pursuant to O.C.G.A. 20-2-742, students in Pre-K through 3rd grade shall not be expelled or suspended for more than five consecutive or cumulative school days in a school year without first receiving an intervention support plan. A Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) provides the framework for this process, using data-driven decision-making to identify student needs and deliver targeted supports across multiple levels of intervention.

If the student is currently receiving, or has previously received, support through a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), the school is considered to have met this requirement. This requirement does not apply if:

• the student possessed a weapon/dangerous instrument Rules15A or Illegal Drugs (including Rules 2A, 2E, 2F, 2K., 2M); and/or
• the student’s behavior endangers the physical safety of other students or school personnel

In addition, if a student has an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a Section 504 plan, prior to assigning the student out-of-school suspension for more than five consecutive or cumulative days during a school year, the school or program shall also convene an IEP or Section 504 meeting to review appropriate supports being provided as part of the IEP or Section 504 plan.

Student Hearing Procedure:

APS supports effective student discipline procedures to support student success and safety in the classroom and the school. For more information pertaining to student hearing procedures see Policy JCEB Student Hearing Procedure and Administrative Regulation JCEB-R(1) Student Hearing Procedure.

Board Policy JGBB: Restorative Practices:

The Atlanta Public Schools Board of Education recognizes restorative practices as a shift from punitive and punishment-oriented student consequences to those that provide opportunities for all people affected by a student’s action to engage in dialogue and measures seeking to restore the classroom, school community, and interpersonal relationships. By implementing restorative practices, schools work to ensure that students are not suspended for subjective offenses and can spend more time in their classrooms, thereby leading to increased student achievement and graduation rates. Restorative practices provide proactive systems, emphasize reintegration, and promote positive classroom environments.

This Board recognizes that in K-12 public education, there is a correlation between higher suspension/expulsion rates and lower proficiency and graduation rates. The Board also acknowledges that student discipline practices are often disproportionately imposed upon certain student subgroups. Implementation of restorative practices should (1) work to reduce the influence of implicit and explicit biases in decisions around student suspensions and expulsions and (2) ensure that students do not face harsh disciplinary consequences for minor, often subjectively defined offenses. 

The safety and welfare of student riders depends on proper behavior and observance of the following rules and regulations. Students who violate the Student rules will be reported to the school principal or designee and their privilege of transportation may be denied. These rules apply to STUDENT ACTIVITY TRIPS as well as regular bus routes to and from school. Students are permitted to ride their assigned school bus only.

1. The DRIVER is in FULL charge of the bus and its passengers and has authority to enforce all the rules. Respect the authority of the driver by obeying promptly and courteously AND following instructions the first time that they are given.
2. BE ON TIME AT THE BUS STOP. The BUS WILL NOT WAIT for those who are tardy. DO NOT run after the bus if you are late. Drivers have been instructed NOT TO STOP for anyone running after a bus.
3. Wait for the bus to come to a COMPLETE halt before trying to board or depart. If you must CROSS THE ROAD, wait for the DRIVER TO SIGNAL you across with their hand when they have determined all traffic has stopped. ALWAYS cross at least ten (10) feet in front of the bus, whether boarding or departing.
4. Promptly board the bus in an orderly manner. After boarding the bus, sit down and remain seated until the bus reaches your stop. IF THE DRIVER ASSIGNS SEATS, students will sit in the seats assigned to them.
5. NO fighting, pushing, tripping, kicking, etc.
6. Students are not allowed to use tobacco, drugs, alcohol, or to light matches or lighters on the bus.
7. Students should respect the property and privacy of others while at the bus stop and on the bus.
8. NO loud or boisterous speech, swearing, or shouting in the bus or out the windows. Rude and abusive language will not be tolerated.
9. DO NOT sit with more than the proper number in one seat.
10. DO NOT extend any part of your body out the bus windows.
11. DO NOT throw anything in or out of the bus window.
12. DO NOT eat or drink on the bus.
13. DO NOT bring sharp objects, alcohol, illegal drugs, tobacco, firearms, knives, explosive devices, firecrackers, or other dangerous materials aboard the bus. Such ITEMS WILL BE CONFISCATED and appropriate discipline will follow.
14. TREAT THE BUS WITH RESPECT. ANY DAMAGES TO THE BUS WILL BE PAID FOR BY THE STUDENT OR THEIR PARENTS/ GUARDIANS.
15. Keep the aisle clear. Store personal items on your lap or under the seat.
16. Keep the bus clean. A waste container is provided at the front of the bus. Use this container when boarding or departing the bus only.
17. USE HANDRAILS when boarding or departing the bus.
18. Students should board and exit the bus at their assigned stop. Avoid crowding or pushing while boarding or exiting the bus.
19. DO NOT board or exit the bus from the rear emergency door, unless instructed to do so by the driver.
20. In the morning, students will be discharged ONLY at their regularly designated school stop. NO student will be allowed to get off at ANY OTHER PLACE.
21. Students transported to an athletic, academic, or co-curricular activity will return to the point of departure on the bus.
22. Never do anything that could distract the driver or other students.
23. Students should not play and chase other students or hang onto school buses.
24. Students should remain cautious at all times when traveling on or standing near school buses to avoid the possibility of being dragged under the wheels of the bus and seriously injured. Students should never crawl or reach under the wheels of the bus.
25. Enter or exit the bus stop area only when it is safe, cross roads at intersections or crosswalks only when it is safe, and look both ways while crossing. Always assume that cars will not stop for you.

Progressive Discipline Interventions (Elementary)

TIER 1 DISCIPLINE (MINOR)

Classroom Intervention/Response

Every intervention and response should be documented in a school-level/PSIS tracking system.

1. Nonverbal cues for redirection
2. Verbal warning
3. Give student a break
4. Revisit, clarify, and reinforce expectations/agreements
5. Give clear and concise directions
6. Provide explicit instructions
7. Modify expectation if accommodation is needed
8. Use positive reinforcement for expected behavior
9. Meditation and journal reflection (written or recorded)
10. Partner with a student for accountability support
11. Partner with another teacher for short-term reflection
12. Student meditation period with a follow-up impromptu restorative conversation
13. Student choice of pre-selected consequences
14. Problem solving process using affective language
15. Problem solving circle
16. Restorative conversation
17. Teacher/student conference
18. Teacher/student/parent conference
19. Teacher/student/counselor conference

Administrative Intervention/Response

Every administrative action taken should be documented in a school-level/PSIS tracking system.

1. Partner student with another staff member for short term reflection teacher/ student/administrator conference
2. Documentation of written warning
3. Student video or paper of steps to self-correct behavior and needed supports
4. Quiet reflection period with administrator, followed by affective dialogue and notice of correction

TIER 2 DISCIPLINE (INTERMEDIATE)

Teacher Intervention/Response

Every intervention and response should be documented in a school-level/PBIS tracking system.

1. Affective language
2. Review expectations
3. Confiscate item of disturbance for a limited amount of time and allow student to journal reflection on expectations and why item was confiscated using affective language
4. Write or record an apology to everyone impacted by actions
5. Written reflection
6. Change seating with review of expectations and partner with a buddy for accountability and support
7. Visit to cool down zone/safe space/peace center for a designated period
8. Conflict resolution with affective questions
9. Meditation (student-student)
10. Referral to counselor
11. Referral to social worker
12. Referral to administrator

Administrative Intervention/Response

Every administrative action taken should be documented in a school-level/PSIS tracking system..

1. Temporary removal from class and facilitate an impromptu restorative conversation
2. Adult mentor (10-30 days check-in and support)
3. Adult pairing check-in/check-out (10 days)
4. Allow the student to take accountability for actions and decide how to make amends using a graphic representation
5. Lunch detention
6. Lunch duty
7. Behavioral contract
8. Removal of school privilege with ability to reinstate after agreed upon amends
9. Reflection “Think Sheet” with restorative questions
10. Change classrooms with review of expectations and partner with new classroom buddy for accountability and support
11. Assignment of school duty (student choice)
12. Assignment of school duty (administrator choice)
13. Written correction with consequences detailed for recurrence
14. Meditation (teacher-student)
15. Restorative conference
16. Restorative problem solving
17. Silent lunch

TIER 3 DISCIPLINE (MODERATE)

Teacher Intervention/Response

Every intervention and response should be documented in a school-level/PBIS tracking system.

1. Restorative conference
2. Reflection paper/video
3. Administrative referral
4. Therapy referral
5. Counseling referral
6. Restorative circle
7. Restorative conference
8. Formal restorative conference
9. Removal of privileges for a period, until restoration or repair/restitution is achieved
10. Detention with reflection (paper or video)

Administrative Intervention/Response

Every administrative action taken should be documented in a school-level/PBIS tracking system.

1. Restorative conference
2. Reflection paper/video
3. Administrative referral
4. Therapy referral
5. Counseling referral
6. Restorative circle
7. Restorative conference
8. Formal restorative conference
9. Removal of privileges for a period, until restoration or repair/restitution is achieved
10. Detention with reflection (paper or video)

TIER 4 DISCIPLINE (SERIOUS)

Teacher Intervention/Response

Every intervention and response should be documented in a school-level/PBIS tracking system.

1. Restorative conference
2. Reflection paper/video
3. Administrative referral
4. Therapy referral
5. Counseling referral
6. Restorative circle
7. Restorative conference
8. Formal restorative conference
9. Removal of privileges for a period, until restoration or repair/restitution is achieved
10. Detention with reflection (paper or video)

Administrative Intervention/Response

Every administrative action taken should be documented in a school-level/PBIS tracking system.

1. Restorative conference
2. Reflection paper/video
3. Administrative referral
4. Therapy referral
5. Counseling referral
6. Restorative circle
7. Restorative conference
8. Formal restorative conference
9. Removal of privileges for a period, until restoration or repair/restitution is achieved
10. Detention with reflection (paper or video)

Progressive Discipline Interventions (Secondary)

TIER 1 DISCIPLINE (MINOR)

Classroom Intervention/Response

Every intervention and response should be documented in a school-level/PBIS tracking system.

1. Nonverbal cues for redirection
2. Verbal warning
3. Give student a break
4. Revisit, clarify, and reinforce expectations/agreements
5. Give clear and concise directions
6. Provide explicit instructions
7. Modify expectation if accommodation is needed
8. Use positive reinforcement for expected behavior
9. Meditation and journal reflection (written or recorded)
10. Partner with a student for accountability support
11. Partner with another teacher for short-term reflection
12. Student meditation period with a follow-up impromptu restorative conversation
13. Student choice of pre-selected consequences
14. Problem solving process using affective language
15. Problem solving circle
16. Restorative conversation
17. Teacher/student conference
18. Teacher/student/parent conference
19. Teacher/student/counselor conference

Administrative Intervention/Response

Every administrative action taken should be documented in a school-level/PSIS tracking system.

1. Partner student with another staff member for short term reflection teacher/student/administrator conference
2. Documentation of written warning
3. Student video or paper of steps to self-correct behavior and needed supports
4. Quiet reflection period with administrator, followed by affective dialogue and notice of correction

TIER 2 DISCIPLINE (INTERMEDIATE)

Teacher Intervention/Response

Every intervention and response should be documented in a school-level/PBIS tracking system.

1. Affective language
2. Review expectations
3. Confiscate item of disturbance for a limited amount of time and allow student to journal reflection on expectations and why item was confiscated using affective language
4. Write or record an apology to everyone impacted by actions
5. Written reflection
6. Change seating with review of expectations and partner with a buddy for accountability and support
7. Visit to cool down zone/safe space/peace center for a designated period
8. Conflict resolution with affective questions
9. Meditation (student-student)
10. Referral to counselor
11. Referral to social worker
12. Referral to administrator

Administrative Intervention/Response

Every administrative action taken should be documented in a school-level/PSIS tracking system.

1. Temporary removal from class and facilitate an impromptu restorative conversation
2. Adult mentor (10-30 days check-in and support)
3. Adult pairing check-in/check-out (10 days)
4. Allow the student to take accountability for actions and decide how to make amends using a graphic representation
5. Lunch detention
6. Lunch duty
7. Behavioral contract
8. Removal of school privilege with ability to reinstate after agreed upon amends
9. Reflection “Think Sheet” with restorative questions
10. Change classrooms with review of expectations and partner with new classroom buddy for accountability and support
11. Assignment of school duty (student choice)
12. Assignment of school duty (administrator choice)
13. Written correction with consequences detailed for recurrence
14. Meditation (teacher-student)
15. Restorative conference
16. Restorative problem solving
17. Silent lunch

TIER 3 DISCIPLINE (MODERATE)

Classroom Intervention/Response

Every intervention and response should be documented in a school-level/PSIS tracking system.

1. Restorative conference
2. Referral to administrator

Administrative Intervention/Response

Every administrative action taken should be documented in a school-level/PSIS tracking system.

1. Therapy referral
2. Restorative circle
3. Restorative conference
4. Formal restorative conference
5. Removal of privileges for a period, until restoration or repair/restitution is achieved
6. Removal from clubs and organizations for a period, until restoration or repair/ restitution is achieved
7. Threat assessment

TIER 4 DISCIPLINE (SERIOUS)

Teacher Intervention/Response

Every intervention and response should be documented in a school-level/PBIS tracking system.

1. Restorative conference
2. Reflection paper/video
3. Administrative referral
4. Therapy referral
5. Counseling referral
6. Restorative circle
7. Restorative conference
8. Formal restorative conference
9. Removal of privileges for a period, until restoration or repair/restitution is achieved
10. Detention with reflection (paper or video)

Administrative Intervention/Response

Every administrative action taken should be documented in a school-level/PBIS tracking system.

1. Restorative conference
2. Reflection paper/video
3. Administrative referral
4. Therapy referral
5. Counseling referral
6. Restorative circle
7. Restorative conference
8. Formal restorative conference
9. Removal of privileges for a period, until restoration or repair/restitution is achieved
10. Detention with reflection (paper or video)

MINOR INFRACTIONS

• 2D ALCOHOL PARAPHERNALIA
• 3C TARDY
• 4F TEASING / TAUNTING
• 7A HORSEPLAY
• 7E PUBLIC DISPLAYS OF AFFECTION
• 12A SCHOOL DRESS CODE
• 14F PROHIBITED USE OF CELL PHONE

INTERMEDIATE INFRACTIONS

• 1A PARTIES TO THE OFFENSE / ENCOURAGING MISCONDUCT
• 2A ALCOHOL / ILLEGAL DRUGS (UNDER THE INFLUENCE)
• 2B ALCOHOL POSSESSION / USE
• 2E ILLEGAL DRUGS / INHALANTS: POSSESSION / USE
• 2G DRUG PARAPHERNALIA
• 2H MEDICATION OTC (OVER THE COUNTER / POSSESSION)
• 2J MEDICATION (PRESCRIPTION / POSSESSION)
• 2M TOBACCO / VAPING PRODUCTS POSSESSION / USE
• 3A LEAVING SCHOOL GROUNDS
• 3B SKIPPING
• 3E UNAUTHORIZED AREA
• 3F UNAUTHORIZED ENTRY
• 5A BUS ELECTRONIC DISTRACTIONS / CELL PHONE
• 5B BUS EMERGENCY EXITS
• 5D BUS UNAUTHORIZED ENTRY OR EXIT
• 6A ACADEMIC DISHONESTY
• 6B TAMPERING WITH EVIDENCE
• 7B GAMBLING
• 7C STUDENT INCIVILITY / INSUBORDINATION
• 7D OFFENSIVE LANGUAGE / GESTURES
• 7K UNAUTHORIZED SCHOOL WALKOUT

MODERATE INFRACTIONS

• 2C ALCOHOL SELLING / BUYING
• 2F ILLEGAL DRUGS / INHALANTS: SELLING / BUYING
• 2I MEDICATION OTC (OVER THE COUNTER / SELLING OR DISTRIBUTION)
• 2K MEDICATION (PRESCRIPTION / SELLING OR DISTRIBUTION)
• 2L TOBACCO / VAPING PRODUCTS (SELLING / DISTRIBUTION)
• 3D TRESPASSING
• 4C HARASSMENT
• 4D OFFENSIVE MATERIAL
• 4E STALKING
• 4G VIOLATION OF NO CONTACT AGREEMENT
• 5C BUS SAFETY HAZARD
• 7G THREAT(S)
• 7H SELLING / DISTRIBUTING UNAUTHORIZED ITEM
• 7I CLASS / SCHOOL DISRUPTION
• 7J UNAUTHORIZED ITEM
• 8A GANG: DISPLAYING GANG AFFILIATION
• 8B GANG: ENGAGING IN GANG ACTIVITY
• 8C GANG: RECRUITING / SOLICITING
• 9A ASSAULT
• 11A ARSON
• 11B BURGLARY
• 11C DAMAGE TO PROPERTY
• 11D RECEIPT OF STOLEN PROPERTY
• 11E ROBBERY
• 11F THEFT
• 13A INDECENT EXPOSURE (SELF / OTHERS)
• 13B SEXUAL ACTIVITY
• 13C SEXUAL BATTERY
• 13D SEXUAL HARASSMENT
• 13E INVASION OF PRIVACY
• 14A AUDIO OR VIDEO RECORDING
• 14B PIRACY
• 14C TECHNOLOGY / COMPUTER MISUSE
• 14D MISUSE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) GENERATED OF FALSE IMAGES
• 14E DISTRIBUTION OF INAPPROPRIATE MATERIALS VIA TECHNOLOGY
• 16A WEAPONS CATEGORY II
• 17A WEAPONS CATEGORY III

SERIOUS INFRACTIONS

• 4A BULLYING
• 4B CYBERBULLYING
• 6C FALSE CALL TO EMERGENCY SERVICES OR CAUSE A FALSE FIRE ALARM
• 6D FALSE REPORT
• 7F TERRORISTIC THREAT(S)
• 9B ASSAULT OF SCHOOL EMPLOYEE
• 9C BATTERY
• 9D BATTERY OF SCHOOL EMPLOYEE
• 9E BATTERY OF AN EMPLOYEE CAUSING PHYSICAL HARM
• 9F CONSENSUAL BODILY HARM / HAZING
• 9G FIGHTING
• 9H FIGHTING: GROUP
• 9I FORCEFULLY ABDUCT / TRANSPORT / DETAIN A PERSON
• 10A OFF CAMPUS OFFENSE
• 13F SEXUAL MOLESTATION
• 15A WEAPONS CATEGORY I