School handbooks are essential resources for students and parents. A school’s handbook outlines the policies, procedures, and expectations for students, parents, and staff within the school or school district. Handbooks provide guidelines on acceptable behavior and academic responsibilities and detail the consequences for violations of the rules and guidelines. This article provides an overview of the key topics covered in school handbooks and information on where to find copies of handbooks.
Key Topics Covered in School Handbooks
Code of Conduct
The Code of Conduct outlines the expected behaviors and standards that all students must follow. It typically includes rules regarding respectful interactions with peers and staff, appropriate dress, the prohibition of bullying, harassment, and discrimination, and the proper use of school property and technology. The Code of Conduct serves as a foundation for maintaining a safe, orderly, and positive learning atmosphere and specifies the consequences for violations of these rules.
Student Rights
The Student Rights section details the protections and freedoms that students are entitled to while at school. These rights often include the right to a safe and non-discriminatory learning environment, the right to privacy, the right to free expression, and the right to due process in disciplinary matters. This section ensures that students understand their rights and know how to seek help if they feel their rights are being violated.
Student Responsibilities
The Student Responsibilities section complements the Student Rights section by outlining the duties and obligations students must fulfill to contribute positively to the school community. Responsibilities typically include attending school regularly and on time, completing academic assignments while adhering to the principals of academic integrity, following the school’s Code of Conduct, respecting the rights of others, and following health and safety guidelines.
Student Discipline
The Student Discipline section explains the procedures and consequences for students who violate the school’s Code of Conduct or other policies. It describes the disciplinary actions that may be taken. Disciplinary actions range from warnings and detentions to suspension or expulsion, depending on the severity of the infraction. The section also outlines the process for disciplinary hearings, appeals, and the rights of students during these procedures.
Where to Find School Handbooks
Students should use the handbook given to them by the school. If you never received one, or misplaced your copy, ask the school for a new one. Many counties post electronic versions of their handbooks on their websites. Some counties do not have handbooks but provide information on topics generally included in handbooks. So, you may find handbooks in PDF form or as an index of links organized by topic. Each county has different categories, so read your handbook carefully.
The Maryland State Department of Education has direct links to the websites of all 24 Maryland local school systems. When viewing information on a county website, check the dates of the handbooks to ensure that the information is up to date.
NOTE: Some schools districts publish both Student and Parent Handbooks.