Colburn School Code of Conduct
The Colburn School (the “School”) has certain rules of conduct that all students, parents, guardians, accompanying family members, and their guests (the “Colburn School Community” or “Community Members”) are expected to observe. This code of conduct is meant to encourage the thoughtful, respectful behavior that helps our community thrive. At their heart, these guidelines call on each of us to treat others with dignity, use our spaces with care, and to contribute to the well-being of our entire School community.
Professional and Respectful Conduct
All members of the Colburn School Community are expected to act with professionalism, honesty, and propriety, showing respect for the rights and dignity of others and demonstrating regard for their surroundings and school property.
Guest and Visitor Conduct
All Community Members must comply with this Code of Conduct while on school premises or at any School sponsored event. Parents and guardians are responsible for their own conduct and that of any additional family members or guests they bring to campus.
Safe and Inclusive Environment
Everyone has the right to an environment free from discrimination, harassment, and bullying. All members of the Colburn School Community are responsible for maintaining a safe, inclusive, and welcoming community, both on-campus and in their other interactions, including but not limited to phone, email, texting, and social media.
Equal Treatment and Non-Discrimination
The Colburn School is committed to providing equal treatment to all individuals regardless of race, color, nationality, gender, sexual orientation, gender expression, ethnic origin, or religious belief.
Compliance with Laws and Policies
The Colburn School abides by all state and federal laws regarding the use of alcohol and drugs. Colburn School Community members are expected to comply with all such laws, and with school policy while on the School Campus or at any School sponsored event. Community Members on campus who are visibly intoxicated or under the influence and exhibiting inappropriate behavior may be subject to removal from the premises.
Safety and Security
Colburn School Community members and their guests are responsible for contributing to a safe and secure school environment. This includes complying with instructions from school personnel, refraining from bringing prohibited or dangerous items to campus, and reporting any safety concerns. Community Members must wear their Colburn identification badge at all times while on campus.
Prohibition of Violence and Threats
Violence, threats of violence, intimidation, or aggressive behavior of any kind are strictly prohibited on school premises and at school-sponsored events. This includes but is not limited to:
- Physical violence or assault
- Verbal threats or intimidation
- Aggressive or menacing behavior
- Possession of weapons or dangerous items
- Destruction of property
- Any behavior that creates a reasonable fear of harm
Violations will result in immediate removal from campus and may result in permanent banning and potential criminal prosecution.
Appropriate Appearance
Community members should maintain attire that reflects good taste and discretion, contributing to the academic and professional atmosphere of the school. Students must follow the dress code outlined in the respective Handbooks.
Expression and Community Standards
Community Members have the right to express themselves within the bounds of respectful, lawful behavior that supports our educational mission. Expression that disrupts the learning environment, creates conflict, or makes others feel unwelcome is not permitted. This includes but is not limited to:
- Political advocacy or campaigning
- Controversial statements intended to provoke conflict
- Speech that targets or marginalizes community members
The school reserves the right to determine what constitutes disruptive expression and to take appropriate action to maintain a positive learning environment.
Filming, Recording, Photography, and Social Media
Community members must use technology responsibly and refrain from filming, recording, photographing, livestreaming, or posting content online without proper consent, especially when minors are involved. Photography, filming, or recording in private settings requires consent from the subjects—or, in the case of minors, their parent or guardian. Recording or photographing classes or lessons is permitted only with the instructor’s approval. Parents who wish to record public student performances may do so provided that the recording is for personal use only, does not disturb other audience members, and complies with all directions from ushers regarding the placement of equipment to ensure clear aisles and emergency access.
Reporting Violations and Investigation Procedures
All violations of this Code of Conduct, safety concerns, or incidents of violence must be reported immediately to:
- School Security Department (primary contact)
- Administrative office
- Human Resources
The Security Department will conduct investigations of all reported violations and incidents of violence. Investigations will be conducted promptly and may include:
- Witness interviews
- Review of available evidence
- Coordination with law enforcement when appropriate
- Documentation of findings and recommended actions
Individuals who report violations in good faith will be protected from retaliation. False reports made in bad faith may result in disciplinary action.
Enforcement and Campus Access
The Colburn School reserves the right to immediately suspend or permanently remove/deny access to any individual, including students, parents, guardians, guests, or visitors, from School premises, School sponsored events, or on-campus parking for violations of this Code of Conduct. This includes but is not limited to:
- Violation of any provision of this Code of Conduct
- Behavior that threatens the safety, security, or well-being of any Community Member
- Disruption of educational activities or school operations
- Failure to comply with reasonable requests from School personnel
- Any conduct deemed detrimental to the School environment
Removal may be immediate and without prior notice when safety concerns exist. “Removed” individuals who return to campus without authorization may be subject to trespassing charges.
Any student, parent, guardian, guest or visitor who is removed from campus due to a violation of the Colburn School’s Code of Conduct is not entitled to any refund, credit, or compensation beyond what is explicitly stated in the applicable Refund Policy outlined in the relevant Student Handbook or ticket purchase agreement. Removal from campus for conduct-related reasons does not alter or override the terms of these established refund policies.