Student Rights and Responsibilities Appendices

Appendix A thru Appendix D

Appendix A: Acceptable Use Policy for Student Network Access

The information systems and internet access available through FCPS are provided in order to support learning, enhance instruction, and support school system business and educational practices.
 
FCPS information technology systems are operated for the benefit of all users in connection with the core mission of FCPS - the education of its students. The use of the FCPS network is necessary to provide all students with access, support, and opportunities to use provided tools and resources; and for students to interact with other students, teachers, and class content to support and enrich their learning experience. Users are prohibited from taking, or attempting to take, any action that might reasonably be expected to disrupt the operation of the network or equipment and/or interfere with the learning of students or the work of FCPS employees.

All-access to the FCPS network shall be preapproved by the principal or program manager. The school or office may restrict, suspend, or terminate any user’s access, without prior notice, if such action is deemed necessary to comply with laws or regulations, protect the safety of others, or maintain computing availability and security. Disabling student access to FCPS instructional technology tools is a serious action that will be taken only when warranted.

Students are advised that the inappropriate use of FCPS technology resources is a violation of student disciplinary rules, regardless of where or when the inappropriate use occurs. As such, schools will respond to instances of inappropriate use by following normal disciplinary procedures, just as they would if the incident occurred in the physical classroom. Disciplinary action for inappropriate use of the FCPS network, systems, or devices may be imposed as stated in the FCPS Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R) document.

FCPS implements internet filtering on all FCPS sites in accordance with the federal Children’s Internet Protection Act. Schools will continue to educate students on digital citizenship, personal safety practices, and effective techniques for identifying and evaluating information and its sources.

FCPS Instructional Environment

Students have the right to physical and virtual educational environments that are consistent with the characteristics outlined in the FCPS SR&R document. These rights include:

  • The right to be treated with respect in online learning environments. Students who do not feel they are being treated with respect should talk to their teacher or the principal.
  • The right to express beliefs and opinions respectfully in online environments without being interrupted or punished. Students may talk to their teacher or principal if they feel that a school decision is not fair.
  • The right of a student to give his or her version of events when accused of violating this Acceptable Use Policy.
  • The right to access, support, and opportunities to use the provided technology tools and resources that support learning.
  • The right to use technology to interact with other students, teachers, and class content to support their learning in both the physical and virtual environments.

Students may exercise these rights and privileges as long as they do so in a manner that does not interfere with the rights of others or the schools’ ability to provide a safe learning environment.

Respect for Others

Users shall respect the rights of others using the FCPS network by:

  • Using or not using devices as directed by the teacher.
  • Being considerate when using school resources.
  • Always logging off devices or apps after finishing work.
  • Not deliberately attempting to disrupt system performance or interfere with the work of other users.
  • Leaving equipment and rooms in good condition for the next user or class.
  • Not accessing, changing, or deleting files belonging to others that are not explicitly shared with you.

Ethical Conduct for Users

It is the responsibility of the user to:

  • Use only his or her account or password. It is a violation to share passwords or to otherwise give access to an account to any other user. User account access is limited to currently enrolled students. Account access is not available to former students.
  • Recognize and honor the intellectual property of others; comply with legal restrictions regarding plagiarism and the use and citation of information resources.
  • Cite and credit all material used, including internet material.
  • Only use software or apps on FCPS devices or networks that have been approved and that the school may legally use. Duplicating or modifying copyrighted software in violation of a license agreement is a serious offense that may result in student discipline.
  • Use the FCPS technology resources in a manner that is consistent with the educational mission of the school system.
  • Help maintain the integrity of the school information systems. Tampering or experimentation is not allowed; this includes the use of the FCPS network and resources to illicitly access, tamper with, or experiment with systems inside and outside FCPS.
  • Help maintain a safe, positive, and trusting learning environment by not using offensive, obscene, or harassing language when on the FCPS network and/or FCPS devices.

Digital Citizenship and Security

  • Students are responsible for complying with all cybersecurity policies set-forth by the Office of Cybersecurity (OCS).
  • Students are prohibited from tampering with FCPS technologies and attempting to circumvent security policies and controls enforced by the Office of Cybersecurity (OCS), such as, but not limited to, accessing the internet via proxy or unauthorized VPN services.
  • Students are prohibited from posting information if it violates the privacy of others, jeopardizes the health and/or safety of students, is obscene or libelous, intended to be threatening, bullying or hateful in nature, or causes disruption of school activities.
  • Students may not access social media sites during school hours except where allowed by school administration. If allowed, social media activity must be limited to academic activities.
  • Students are prohibited from accessing any portion of the internet that is inconsistent with the educational mission of FCPS.
  • Students are prohibited from using phones, tablets, and other mobile devices in restrooms and locker rooms, unless there is a medical necessity or emergency.
  • Students may utilize real-time messaging and online chat only within approved instructional apps or with the permission of the teacher or principal.
  • Students are not to record electronically instructional programs, the classroom environment generally, or any conversation involving a school official, without the official’s advance permission to do so.
  • Students may not take photographs or videos of others without consent during school hours while on school property, unless for academic use. School administration may allow limited non- academic use of photography on a case-by-case basis.
  • Students, under five years of age, are required to have adult-supervision while using FCPS technologies.
  • Parents and/or guardians should ensure that use of student assigned devices is limited to supporting the educational outcomes of the student at home and the device not be used by anyone else for non-educational purposes.
  • Students are not to reveal personal information (last name, home address, phone number) in correspondence with unknown parties.
  • Students shall accept the responsibility for all material they access.
  • Students are responsible for reporting any inappropriate material they receive.
  • All student-produced web pages are subject to approval and ongoing review by responsible teachers and/or principals. All publicly-accessible web pages shall reflect the mission and character of the school.
  • Students are prohibited from viewing, sending, and accessing illegal material.
  • Students are prohibited from downloading inappropriate or illegal material on FCPS computers or networks.
  • Students may not modify or rearrange keyboards, monitors, printers, or any other peripheral equipment.
  • Students should report equipment problems immediately to a teacher, technical support staff, or principal.
  • Students should leave desktop workstations and peripherals in their designated places.
  • To ensure student safety and compliance with this Acceptable Use Policy, FCPS reserves the right to monitor and investigate students’ online activities as needed. This includes accessing, reviewing, copying, storing, or deleting any communications or files so they can be shared with adults as necessary and as permitted or required by law. Students should have no expectation of privacy regarding their use of FCPS equipment, network, internet access, files, or email access.

Personally-Owned Computing and/or Network Devices (BYOD)

Students using personally-owned electronic devices must follow the policy stated in this document while on school property, attending school-sponsored activities, or using the FCPS network.

  • Students using a personally-owned device with a wireless connection are only permitted to connect to the FCPS Wi-Fi network (not private cellular services) while on FCPS premises.
  • When applicable, appropriate virus-checking software must be installed, updated, and made active prior to any personally owned device being placed on the FCPS network.
  • No device placed on the FCPS network can have software that monitors, analyzes, or may cause disruption to the FCPS network.
  • FCPS is not responsible for any device or data loss, theft, damage, or other associated costs of replacement or repair of a personal device as a result of a student participating in the BYOD initiative.
  • FCPS staff will not be responsible for storing, supporting, or troubleshooting personal devices.
  • Students will take full responsibility for any personally-owned device and will appropriately secure all devices when not in use.
  • FCPS reserves the right to monitor and investigate all devices and activities on the FCPS network. The device may also be confiscated by school officials in accordance with the SR&R.

See also the current versions of:    
Regulation 6410, Appropriate Use of Fairfax County Public Schools' Network and Internet Resources
Regulation 2601, Student’s Rights and Responsibilities Book

Appendix B: Standards of Conduct for Students Riding Buses

Please read Standards of Conduct for Students Riding School Buses with your child. It is important that you and your child understand the standards covering appropriate conduct while riding a bus whether for regular home-to-school service or for other activities.

SIGN THE PARENT AND/OR GUARDIAN SIGNATURE SHEET LOCATED IN THE FRONT OF THIS BOOKLET AND RETURN TO THE PRINCIPAL, who will retain it on file. If a student is unable to read these instructions, the parent’s or guardian’s signature will indicate that this regulation has been explained to the student.

GENERAL

The current version of FCPS Regulation 8617 provides that daily bus service shall be provided for all elementary students living in excess of one mile from school and for middle and high school pupils living in excess of one and one-half miles from school. Consult the following regulations for further information and requirements:

  1. The current version of Regulation 2601 regarding Student Rights and Responsibilities.
  1. The current version of Regulation 8617 regarding the provision of transportation for students enrolled in designated special education programs.

STANDARDS

Acceptable classroom standards of conduct shall be expected of bus passengers and drivers shall ensure that pupils observe regulations at all times. Among other things, students shall not smoke, yell, scream, swear, push, fight, bully, or take advantage of any other student; extend hands, arms, or heads or objects from bus windows; carry on the bus any drugs, weapons, water pistols, live reptiles, animals, insects, or oversized items (including school instruments) that would block an aisle, cause loss of passenger seat space, obstruct the driver’s view, or create a safety hazard.

DISCIPLINE

A driver may temporarily issue an assigned seat for disciplinary purposes in response to student safety. A driver may recommend suspension of bus transportation for a pupil who will not heed the driver’s warning as to behavior. The principal shall take final action in such cases. During a period of suspension, the School Board shall not be responsible for transporting the pupil to school. A driver may not remove a child from the bus or refuse transportation to a child on a bus without proper authorization by the principal, except in cases in which the safety of pupils is jeopardized. The principal shall be notified of such extreme cases immediately. Drivers shall report all disciplinary cases to school principals on form TR-12. Vandalism of the bus may be cause for disciplinary action. Video camera and audio recorder may be in use.

MEETING THE BUS

Students Must:

  • Be at their bus stops at least five minutes before the regular pickup time, but no earlier than ten minutes before the pickup time. Remain at the stop until buses arrive. Be picked up and released at their designated (assigned) bus stops.
  • Demonstrate appropriate conduct at the bus stops including proper care for private property at that location.
  • Not stand on the traveled portion of the roadway or parking lot while waiting for the bus or engage in play or other activities that will endanger themselves or their companions or possessions while waiting beside the road.
  • Not approach a bus arriving at the bus stop until it has come to a complete stop with the entrance door open.
  • Not run alongside a moving bus. Wait to cross a traveled portion of the roadway, or to board a bus, until the bus is stopped and other vehicles approaching or following the bus have stopped. The bus driver will signal students to cross a roadway when it is safe to do so.
  • Report any illness or injury sustained on or around the bus immediately to the driver.
  • Follow the directions of safety patrols who are assigned to a bus stop or a bus. Safety patrols help bus drivers and work under the direction of the school sponsor and the bus driver.

CONDUCT ON THE BUS

Students Must:

  • Recognize that the bus driver is the authority on the bus and obey and be courteous to them and fellow students.
  • Go directly to a seat and remain seated unless otherwise directed by the driver.
  • Not tamper with the emergency door.
  • Not slap others or wave or shout at pedestrians or other vehicles.
  • Not throw objects about the bus or from a window (or throw objects at the bus from outside).
  • Carry onto bus only unbreakable objects that can be safely held in pupil’s lap.
  • Not share, sell, or consume food or beverages.
  • Not talk on the cell phone, except in the case of an emergency situation.
  • Present written request from parents or guardians, subject to approval of school principal, to go home on an alternate route.

LEAVING THE BUS

Students Must:

  • Remain seated until bus comes to a full stop.
  • Exit bus in an orderly manner.
  • Leave bus stop area only when safety permits; that is, when crossing a roadway, cross at a distance of approximately ten feet from the front of the bus after the driver signals it is safe to do so.

Parents or guardians are encouraged to walk with students to and from bus stops or school. Special education students and students in designated programs, (such as FECEP and Preschool/PAC) must be met at the bus by responsible adults. Kindergarten students riding the afternoon school buses will be returned to school unless they are met at the bus door by a parent, a guardian and/or caregiver, or sibling, middle school or higher and asked for by name.

Appendix C: Code of Virginia

Current version of the Code of Virginia § 22.1-279.3, Parental Responsibility and Involvement requirements:

  • A. Each parent of a student enrolled in a public school has a duty to assist the school in enforcing the standards of student conduct and compulsory school attendance in order that education may be conducted in an atmosphere free of disruption and threat to persons or property, and supportive of individual rights.
  • B. A school board shall provide opportunities for parental and community involvement in every school in the school division.
  • C. Within one calendar month of the opening of school, each school board shall, simultaneously with any other materials customarily distributed at that time, send to the parents of each enrolled student (i) a notice of the requirements of this section; (ii) a copy of the school board's standards of student conduct; and (iii) a copy of the compulsory school attendance law. These materials shall include a notice to the parents that by signing the statement of receipt, parents shall not be deemed to waive, but to expressly reserve, their rights protected by the constitutions or laws of the United States or the Commonwealth and that a parent shall have the right to express disagreement with a school's or school division's policies or decisions.

    Each parent of a student shall sign and return to the school in which the student is enrolled a statement acknowledging the receipt of the school board's standards of student conduct, the notice of the requirements of this section, and the compulsory school attendance law. Each school shall maintain records of such signed statements.
  • D. The school principal may request the student's parent or parents, if both parents have legal and physical custody of such student, to meet with the principal or their designee to review the school board's standards of student conduct and the parent's or parents’ responsibility to participate with the school in disciplining the student and maintaining order, to ensure the student’s compliance with compulsory school attendance law, and to discuss improvement of the child's behavior, school attendance, and educational progress.
  • E. In accordance with the due process procedures set forth in this article and the guidelines required by § 22.1- 279.6, the school principal may notify the parents of any student who violates a school board policy or the compulsory school attendance requirements when such violation could result in the student's suspension or the filing of a court petition, whether or not the school administration has imposed such disciplinary action or filed a petition. The notice shall state (i) the date and particulars of the violation; (ii) the obligation of the parent to take actions to assist the school in improving the student's behavior and ensuring compulsory school attendance compliance; (iii) that, if the student is suspended, the parent may be required to accompany the student to meet with school officials; and (iv) that a petition with the juvenile and domestic relations court may be filed under certain circumstances to declare the student a child in need of supervision.
  • F. No suspended student shall be admitted to the regular school program until such student and their parent have met with school officials to discuss improvement of the student's behavior, unless the school principal or their designee determines that readmission, without parent conference, is appropriate for the student.
  • G. Upon the failure of a parent to comply with the provisions of this section, the school board may, by petition to the juvenile and domestic relations court, proceed against such parent for willful and unreasonable refusal to participate in efforts to improve the student's behavior or school attendance, as follows:
    • 1. If the court finds that the parent has willfully and unreasonably failed to meet, pursuant to a request of the principal as set forth in subsection D of this section, to review the school board's standards of student conduct and the parent's responsibility to assist the school in disciplining the student and maintaining order, and to discuss improvement of the child's behavior and educational progress, it may order the parent to so meet; or
    • 2. If the court finds that a parent has willfully and unreasonably failed to accompany a suspended student to meet with school officials pursuant to subsection F, or upon the student's receiving a second suspension or being expelled, it may order the student or their parent, or both, to participate in such programs or such treatment, including, but not limited to, extended day programs, summer school, other educational programs and counseling, as the court deems appropriate to improve the student's behavior or school attendance. The order may also require participation in parenting, counseling, or a mentoring program, as appropriate or that the student or their parent, or both, shall be subject to such conditions and limitations, as the court deems appropriate for the supervision, care, and rehabilitation of the student or their parent. In addition, the court may order the parent to pay a civil penalty not to exceed $500.
  • H. The civil penalties established pursuant to this section shall be enforceable in the juvenile and domestic relations court in which the student's school is located and shall be paid into a fund maintained by the appropriate local governing body to support programs or treatments designed to improve the behavior of students as described in subdivision G 2. Upon the failure to pay the civil penalties imposed by this section, the attorney for the appropriate county, city, or town shall enforce the collection of such civil penalties.
  • I All references in this section to the juvenile and domestic relations court shall be also deemed to mean any successor in interest of such court.

Current version of the Code of Virginia § 22.1-254 Compulsory School Attendance

Every parent, guardian, or other person in the Commonwealth having control or charge of any child who will have reached the fifth birthday on or before September 30 of any school year and who has not passed the eighteenth birthday shall, during the period of each year the public schools are in session and for the same number of days and hours per day as the public schools, send such child to a public school or to a private, denominational, or parochial school or have such child taught by a tutor or teacher of qualifications prescribed by the Board of Education and approved by the division superintendent, or provide for home instruction of such child as described in § 22.1-254.1. For additional details on the Virginia Compulsory School Attendance Law, refer to section 22.1-254 of the Code of Virginia.

Current version of the Code of Virginia § 22.1-279.4 Information Regarding Prosecution of Juveniles as Adults

As required by section § 22.1-279.4 of the Code of Virginia, FCPS provides its students with information developed by the Virginia Attorney General regarding the laws governing the prosecution of juveniles as adults for the commission of certain crimes and that information can be found at http://www.doe.virginia.gov/administrators/superintendents_memos/2012/0…/

Appendix D: Regulation 2601.37P

This copy of regulation 2601 has been specially formatted for this website. The official and current version of this regulation is available through the FCPS website, which includes changes that may be made between printings. (www.fcps.edu/srr)

View Regulation 2601.37P

 

FCPS policies and procedures can be printed upon request by your child’s school.