A350  Civility and Decorum Policy

The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) is dedicated to maintaining a supportive learning environment free from disruptive conduct. MVCSC, through this policy, intends to promote mutual respect, civility, decorum, and orderly conduct among MVCSC employees, parents/guardians, and other members of the public. 

MVCSC employees, parents/guardians, and other members of the public are expected to treat one another with civility, courtesy, and respect during all MVCSC operations, programs, and activities, including on school grounds or at school-sponsored events.

Respectful dialogue amongst MVCSC employees, parents/guardians, and other members of the public is welcomed and even encouraged. This policy is not intended to stifle the expression of differing viewpoints, rather to promote problem-solving and the respectful communication of differing viewpoints. However, any conduct that disrupts or interferes with the good order or administration of any MVCSC operation, program, or activity will not be tolerated. 

Disruptive or uncivil behavior includes, but is not limited to: 

1. Actions taken or words conveyed with the purpose to intimidate, threaten, or harass; 
2. Using profanities or obscenities; 
3. Raising one’s voice above an appropriate level; 
4. Personal attacks;  
5. Gesturing in a manner that causes one to fear for his/her safety;
6. Invading, or remaining in one’s personal space after being asked to move away; 
7. Physically blocking others from moving about freely; or
8. Using physical force, or threat of physical force.

An incident of uncivil or disruptive behavior from MVCSC employees, parents/guardians, or other members of the public will be documented and sent to the Superintendent or their designee. 

MVCSC will address disruptive and uncivil behavior in a progressive manner. Usually, MVCSC will first remind the individual to remain civil and be respectful and courteous to others. If disruptive and uncivil behavior continues MVCSC may take the following, non-exhaustive actions: remove the individual from the general area to provide time for de-escalation; remove the individual from the area for the remainder of the meeting or event; implement a communication plan; and/or issue a no-trespass order. 

Nothing in this policy shall prevent MVCSC from appropriately involving law enforcement or meeting reporting requirements under Indiana law. 

For MVCSC employees and students who behave in an uncivil or disruptive manner, appropriate disciplinary action will be taken in accord with negotiated agreements and the Student Code of Conduct. 

The Superintendent or designee may develop administrative guidelines to implement this policy.

• Legal Citation:
• IC §20-33-9-10

• Adopted 11/15/21