All Students are Expected to:
Respect Others
Treat all staff, volunteers, and fellow students with kindness and respect.
Avoid bullying, name-calling, teasing, or physical aggression.
Respect personal space and boundaries.
The 3 P’s: Respect at all times Program / Persons / Property.
Follow Rules and Guidelines
Follow all center rules, including those regarding safety, noise levels, and designated areas.
Obey instructions from Teen Center staff and volunteers.
Participate positively in activities and maintain an appropriate attitude.
Behave Appropriately
Maintain good behavior at all times, both inside and outside the Teen Center.
Be mindful of the language used and avoid offensive or inappropriate comments.
Keep your actions in line with the expectations of the Teen Center and local laws.
Safety First
Always prioritize safety during all activities, including physical activities, sports, and when using equipment.
Follow emergency procedures and participate in evacuation drills.
Immediately report unsafe behavior or incidents to a staff member.
Substance-Free Environment
The use of drugs, alcohol, vaping, or tobacco is strictly prohibited on Teen Center premises.
Refrain from engaging in any behavior involving drugs or alcohol before, during, or after attending Teen Center activities.
Technology Usage
Internet access is only allowed with staff permission.
Do not access, share, or display inappropriate content (violent, explicit, or harmful).
No cyberbullying, harassment, or spreading rumors online.
Treat others respectfully in all digital interactions.
Do not share your personal information or anyone else’s personal information, accounts, or devices without permission.
Do not access other people’s accounts or devices without permission.
Do not record, photograph, or post others without their consent.
Personal device volume must be kept low, or headphones must be used.
The center is not responsible for lost, stolen or damaged devices.
Do not post content that reflects negatively on the center or its members.
Staff and volunteers may monitor technology use to ensure safety and compliance.
Staff may restrict or revoke access at any time if rules are not followed.
Respect the Facility and Equipment
Treat all center property, including furniture, equipment, and supplies, with care and respect.
Report any damage or broken equipment to staff immediately.
Consequences for Violations
Failure to adhere to these expectations may result in the following disciplinary actions, based on a tiered system:
Green Light Behavior (Lower-Level Misconduct)
Definition: Misconduct that does not create an immediate safety threat (e.g., minor disrespect, inappropriate language, minor rule violations, or noncompliance corrected with redirection).
Possible Responses: Verbal warning or correction; staff coaching; documentation; parent/guardian notification if appropriate.
Yellow Light Behavior (Concerning Conduct)
Definition: Repeated misconduct or behavior that affects the emotional or physical safety of others (e.g., bullying, harassment, intimidation, sexualized comments, repeated boundary violations, suspected grooming, defiance during a safety incident).
Possible Responses: Immediate separation; same-day incident report; notification of parent/guardian; temporary suspension pending review; reentry meeting/behavior agreement before return.
Red Light Behavior (Serious/Immediate Threat)
Definition: Conduct that creates a serious or immediate threat to safety (e.g., physical violence, threats, sexual coercion, sexual exploitation, suspected trafficking, stalking, weapon possession, conduct requiring law enforcement).
Possible Responses: Immediate removal from the program; immediate notification of parent/guardian; notification of law enforcement/authorities; suspension pending investigation; permanent removal.
Interim Protective Suspension
When the center receives credible information suggesting that a participant may present a risk to safety, the Executive Director or Program Director may place that participant on immediate temporary suspension pending review. This is a protective measure, not a final disciplinary finding.
Incident Reporting and Investigation
All Yellow and Red-Light incidents must be documented promptly. Staff shall notify the Executive Director, Program Director, or other designated lead as soon as possible. Witness statements may be gathered.
Final Disciplinary Outcomes
Depending on the severity of the conduct, the center may impose:
Verbal warning
Written warning
Behavior contract
Temporary suspension
Restricted access
Required parent/guardian conference
Permanent removal from programming
Referral to outside services where appropriate
