Introduction
Gan Montessori is dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing learning environment for all students. We are committed to upholding the highest professional standards while fostering respectful and appropriate relationships between employees and students. This Employee Code of Professional Conduct Policy outlines our expectations for all employees and agents regarding their conduct, focusing on the principles of responsibility, ethics, and the prevention of sexual misconduct.
Section 1: Incorporation of Illinois Educator Code of Ethics
Our employees are expected to adhere to the Illinois Educator Code of Ethics as outlined in the official regulations (23 Ill. Adm. Code). This code forms the basis of our expectations for professional conduct.
Section 2: Definition of Sexual Misconduct
Sexual misconduct is strictly prohibited within our school community. It is defined as any attempt by an employee to establish a romantic or sexual relationship with a student through verbal, nonverbal, written, or electronic communication or physical activity. This includes, but is not limited to, actions such as inviting a student on a date, having romantic conversations, making sexual comments, sharing explicit content, or engaging in inappropriate physical contact with the student.
Section 3: Maintaining Professional Relationships
Staff-Student Boundaries: All employees must maintain clear boundaries with students to ensure a professional relationship. This means not engaging in behavior or communication that is sexual, romantic, or inappropriate in nature.
Age and Developmental Consideration: Employees should recognize the age and developmental level of the students they work with and ensure their conduct is appropriate and respectful.
Guidelines for Specific Situations:
Transporting a Student: Employees must follow guidelines established by the school for student transportation, ensuring safety and professionalism at all times.
Taking or Possessing Photos or Videos of a Student: Any photos or videos of students should be taken and maintained for legitimate educational purposes only.
Meeting with or Contacting a Student Outside of Professional Role: Employees must maintain professionalism when meeting with or contacting students outside their official roles. This includes avoiding situations that could be misconstrued as romantic or inappropriate.
Section 4: Reporting Requirements
Employees are required to comply with the employee reporting requirements as stipulated under the Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act and Title IX of the federal Education Amendments of 1972. This includes promptly reporting any instances of misconduct or abuse involving students.
Section 5: Required Employee Training
All employees are required to undergo training related to child abuse awareness and educator ethics, as mandated by State and federal law. This training is aimed at providing employees with the knowledge and tools necessary to protect students and maintain professional conduct.
Section 6: Policy Dissemination
This Employee Code of Professional Conduct Policy will be posted on the school district's/charter school's/nonpublic school's website, and included in any staff, student, or parent handbook provided by the school.
Section 7: Violations and Consequences
Violation of this Employee Code of Professional Conduct Policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal from employment. Failure to report violations of this policy may also subject an employee to disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal from employment.
We are committed to maintaining the highest ethical standards and providing a safe and supportive environment for our students. This policy is designed to ensure the well-being and protection of all members of our school community.