General Expectations

Each student has the obligation to genuinely participate in and not disrupt or interfere with the educational process as it affects him/herself and other students, teachers or staff members. In that regard there exists certain standards or "codes" of conduct which apply to all Oakmont members; and violation of those standards or "codes" should and shall result in firm corrective or other action by the school staff, which can include a combination of academic penalties and discipline such as warnings, detentions, parental notification and involvement, grading penalty, probation, suspensions and possibly exclusion from school.

The codes of conduct are meant to cover conduct ranging from personal appearance and grooming to more extreme behavior such as the use of controlled substances or weapons, and the codes have different but equally important sources, including the United States and Massachusetts Constitutions, laws passed by federal and state and local government, cases decided by our Courts, School Committee and School Council policies and rules and regulations, and the School Council Handbook Review Committee and school administrators’ rules. Though all of these codes have their basis in the simple principles of fairness, common courtesy and respect for others, it is obvious that no code of conduct can be expected to describe and list every possible or potential violation of standards of conduct. Simply stated, we are all expected to behave appropriately and be on 'good behavior' at all times, and so long as the offender is warned and informed, appropriate disciplinary action may be taken against any action or activity which interferes with the interests set forth above.

Students are expected to quietly listen to any school-wide announcement through the public address system or OTV, during any part of the day but especially during the announcement period.

Lastly, the school disciplinary procedure is not exclusive, and when needed or appropriate, other officials or the police may be notified and involved.

The various constitutional and statutory sources of this handbook are available in various offices and libraries, and attached as a non-comprehensive information attachment are summaries or copies of some significant, timely and recent enactments concerning student responsibilities. See section on Selected Applicable State and Federal Laws.