I.    PURPOSE

A positive and stimulating learning environment is critical to student success. The culture of the Minnetonka School District will demonstrate support and caring for all members of our community. The purpose of this policy, in accordance with the law and accepted rules of a civil society, is to maintain a learning environment which is legal, ethical and non-abusive.

II.    GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

All students in the Minnetonka Public Schools shall behave civilly and with fairness and respect in dealing with other students, District personnel, patrons, visitors, and anyone having business with the District.

Uncivil behaviors shall be defined as those that are physically or verbally threatening, either overtly or implicitly, as well as behaviors that are coercive, intimidating, violent, or harassing whether they occur in telephone conversations, voice mail messages, face-to-face conversations, written letters, or e-mail messages. Examples of uncivil behavior shall include, but are not limited to, the use of profanity; personally insulting remarks; attacks on a person’s race, gender, nationality, or religion; and behavior that is out of control.

All students shall behave civilly at all athletic and non-athletic events, both home and away and on district-owned or district-contracted transportation.

Any uncivil behavior by students shall be reported to District personnel. A record shall be made of the alleged incident and the action taken. Confidentiality shall be maintained whenever possible to protect the complainant and the alleged offending student. Retaliation against a person who reports a claim of uncivil behavior shall be prohibited.

III.    NOTICE OF POLICY TO STUDENTS

A copy of this policy will be published in the Parent District Handbook/Student Rights and Responsibilities document and posted on the District’s website.

IV.    PROCEDURES

The Superintendent shall establish procedures for all students for the proper behavior of all students in academic and non-academic settings.