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  • Effective:  9/24/2019

  1. Board Directive
    The Board adopts this policy, in part, because the legislature has conditioned certain governmental immunity protections upon the adoption of an appropriate behavior policy not less stringent than a model policy created by the State Board of Education. The Board is committed to establishing and maintaining appropriate standards of conduct between staff members and students.  These standards of conduct are also known as professional boundaries.  Staff members shall maintain professional and appropriate demeanor and relationships with students, both during and outside of school hours, as well as both on and off campus, that foster an effective, non-disruptive and safe learning environment.  The Board delegates to the Administration the responsibility for establishing guidelines for the Employee Code of Conduct.
  2. Administrative Policy
    1. Definitions
      1. Staff Member: an employee, contractor or volunteer with unsupervised access to students.
      2. Student: a child under the age of 18 or over the age of 18 if still enrolled in a public secondary school.
      3. Boundary Violation: crossing verbal, physical, emotional, or social lines that staff must maintain in order to ensure structure, security, and predictability in an educational environment.
        1. A boundary violation may include the following, depending on the circumstances:
          1. Isolated, one-on-one interactions with a student out of the line of sight of others;
          2. Meeting with a student in rooms with covered or blocked windows;
          3. Telling risqué jokes to, or in the presence of a student;
          4. Employing favoritism to a student;
          5. Giving gifts to individual students;
          6. Staff member initiated frontal hugging or other uninvited touching;
          7. Photographing an individual student for a non-educational purpose or use;
          8. Engaging in inappropriate or unprofessional contact outside of educational program activities;
          9. Exchanging personal email or phone numbers with a student for a non-educational purpose or use;
          10. Interacting privately with a student through social media, computer, or handheld devices; and
          11. Discussing an employee’s personal life or personal issues with a student.
        2. A boundary violation does not include:
          1. Offering praise, encouragement, or acknowledgment;
          2. Offering rewards available to all who achieve;
          3. Asking permission to touch for necessary purposes;
          4. Giving a pat on the back or a shoulder;
          5. Giving a side hug;
          6. Giving a handshake or high five;
          7. Offering warmth and kindness;
          8. Utilizing public social media alerts to groups of students and parents; or
          9. Contact permitted by an IEP or 504 plan.
      4. Grooming: befriending and establishing an emotional connection with a student or a student’s family to lower the student’s inhibitions for emotional, physical, or sexual abuse.
      5. Sexual Conduct: includes any sexual contact or communication between a staff member and a student including but not limited to:
        1. Sexual Abuse: the criminal conduct described in Utah Code Ann. 76-5-404.1(2) and includes, regardless of the gender of any participant:
          1. Touching the anus, buttocks, pubic area, or genitalia of a student;
          2. Touching the breast of a female student; or
          3. Otherwise taking indecent liberties with a student; with the intent to:
            1. cause substantial emotional or bodily pain; or
            2. arouse or gratify the sexual desire of any individual.
        2. Sexual Battery: the criminal conduct described in Utah Code Ann. 76-9-702.1 and includes intentionally touching, whether or not through clothing, the anus, buttocks, or any part of the genitals of a student, or the breast of a female student, and the actor’s conduct is under circumstances the actor knows or should know will likely cause affront or alarm to the student touched; or
        3. A staff member and student sharing any sexually explicit or lewd communication, image, or photograph.
    2. Procedures
      Staff members shall act in a way that acknowledges and reflects their inherent positions of authority and influence over students.

      1. Staff members shall recognize and maintain appropriate personal boundaries in teaching, supervising and interacting with students and shall avoid boundary violations including behavior that could reasonably be considered grooming or lead to even an appearance of impropriety. It is not a boundary violation when a student acts or speaks in inappropriately familiar ways with a staff member without having been prompted to do so by the staff member, but such incidents must be promptly documented and reported to the staff member’s supervisor or the building principal and the student should be given guidance on proper student-staff relationships as directed by the supervisor or principal.
      2. A staff member may not subject a student to any form of abuse including, but not limited to:
        1. physical abuse;
        2. verbal abuse;
        3. sexual abuse; or
        4. mental abuse.
      3. A staff member shall not touch a student in a way that makes a reasonably objective student feel uncomfortable.
      4. A staff member shall not engage in any sexual conduct toward or sexual relations with a student including, but not limited to:
        1. viewing with a student, or allowing a student to view, pornography or any other sexually explicit or inappropriate images or content, whether video, audio, print, text or other format;
        2. sexual battery; or
        3. sexual assault.
      5. Staff member communications with students, whether verbal or electronic, shall be professional and avoid boundary violations.
      6. A staff member shall not provide gifts, special favors, or preferential treatment to a student or group of students.
      7. A staff member shall not discriminate against a student on the basis of sex, religion, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited class.
      8. Staff member use of electronic devices and social media to communicate with students must comply with District policy, be professional, pertain to school activities or classes, and comply with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act.
      9. A staff member may not use or be under the influence of alcohol or illegal substances during work hours on school property or at school sponsored events while acting as a staff member. Additionally, a staff member may not use any form of tobacco or electronic cigarettes on school property or at school sponsored activities in an employment capacity.
      10. The prohibitions listed above in subsections 1 through 9 apply to staff member interaction with any student presently enrolled in the District and to staff member interaction with any former student who was enrolled at a school where the staff member was assigned during the student’s enrollment at that school for a period of two (2) years after the student ceased enrollment at that school.
      11. A staff member shall cooperate in any investigation concerning allegations of actions, conduct, or communications that if proven, would violate this policy.
      12. The District recognizes that familial relationships or other relationships which are independent of and which do not arise out of the school context between a staff member and a student or former student may provide for exceptions to certain provisions of this policy.
      13. Conduct prohibited by this policy is considered a violation of this policy regardless of whether the student may have consented.
    3. Reporting
      1. A staff member who has reason to believe there has been a violation of this policy shall immediately report such conduct to an appropriate supervisor or school administrator. If a staff member has reason to believe a school administrator has violated this policy, the staff member shall immediately report the conduct to the administrator’s supervisor.
      2. In addition to the obligation to report suspected child abuse or neglect to law enforcement or the Division of Child and Family Services under Utah Code Ann. 62A-4a-403:
        1. a staff member who has reasonable cause to believe that a student may have been physically or sexually abused by a school staff member shall immediately report the belief and all other relevant information to the school administrator, or to District Administration;
        2. a school administrator who has received a report or who otherwise has reasonable cause to believe that a student may have been physically or sexually abused by a school staff member shall immediately inform the District Administration of the reported abuse; and
        3. if the staff member suspected to have abused a student holds a professional educator license issued by the Utah State Board of Education, the District Administration shall immediately report that information to the Utah Professional Practices Advisory Commission;
        4. a person who makes a report under this subsection in good faith shall be immune from civil or criminal liability that might otherwise arise by reason of that report.
      3. A staff member who has knowledge of suspected incidents of bullying shall immediately notify the student’s building administrator in compliance with Policy AS98-Bulying, Cyberbullying and Hazing.
      4. Failing to report suspected misconduct as required herein is a violation of this policy, the Utah Educator Standards, and in some instances, state law, and may result in disciplinary action.
    4. Training
      1. Within 10 days of beginning employment with the District a staff member shall receive video training regarding this policy and shall electronically acknowledge having received training and understanding the policy.
      2. Staff members employed by the District at the time of initial adoption of this policy shall receive video training regarding this policy prior to the first day of the 2019-20 school year on which students will be in attendance and shall electronically acknowledge having received training and understanding the policy.
      3. All employees will receive video training annually as part of the crucial policy review.
    5. Violations
      A staff member found in violation of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including removal as a volunteer or termination of employment in accordance with orderly termination policy DP316 NEG, DP316A and DP316B NEG.

REFERENCES

Utah Code Title 62A, Chapter 4a, Part 4, Child Abuse or Neglect Reporting Requirements
Utah Code Section 53E-6-701, Mandatory Reporting of Physical or Sexual Abuse of Students
Utah Admin. Code R277-401, Child Abuse-Neglect Reporting by Education Personnel
Utah Admin. Code R277-515, Utah Educator Professional Standard
Utah Admin. Code R277-322, LEA Codes of Conduct
Utah Code Section 63G-7-301, Waivers of Immunity
Utah Code Section 76-5-401.1, Sexual Abuse of a Minor
Utah Code Section 76-9-702.1, Sexual Battery

  • Effective - 1/24/2017
  • Revision - 4/25/2023

Jordan School District will support and implement physically and emotionally safe school programs and procedures where learning can occur.

  1. School safety and security will be accomplished by providing a physically safe learning environment through safety and security programs that include:
    1. Safe and secure buildings and grounds
    2. Emergency preparedness
    3. Student, staff and patron safety and welfare
    4. Timely communication to families (coordinated with police) if an emergency should occur
    5. Yearly communication to parents containing safety procedures and protocol
  2. School safety and security will be further accomplished by encouraging each school to foster an emotionally safe and welcoming environment.
    1. The updated District Plan addressing the mental, social, emotional, and physical well-being of students and employees will be implemented throughout the District and shall include the following components:
      1. Clearly articulated procedures and protocols regarding the wellness needs of students and employees
      2. Clearly defined resources regarding suicide prevention and anti-bullying strategies
      3. Clearly defined education process for students, parents, faculty, and staff
    2. Each school will create a Code of Conduct in collaboration with the school administration, faculty, and School Community Council.  An anti-bullying program will be an element of each school’s Code of Conduct and shall include the following components:
      1. Clearly articulated and defined desired actions and behaviors
      2. Clearly defined rules and consequences
      3. Clearly defined reporting process
      4. Clearly defined education process for students, parents, faculty, and staff
  3. Evidence of the above may be requested by a Board member and provided through multiple means.
    1. The safety and security programs for physical safety shall be measured and assessed by:
      1. Jordan Safety and Security Assessments (three times per year)
      2. School Self-inspection Surveys (annually)
      3. Jordan School District Online Satisfaction Surveys (annually)
      4. Utah State Risk Inspections (annually)
      5. Utah State Fire Inspections (annually)
      6. Utah State Board of Health Inspections (annually)
      7. End of year drill reporting from schools
      8. Safety and Security Annual Report
    2. The emotionally safe environment for schools shall be measured and assessed by:
      1. Code of Conduct from each school provided to the appropriate Administrator of Schools and available on the school’s website (annually)
      2. Dates of each school’s Code of Conduct training provided to the appropriate Administrator of Schools (annually)
      3. District Plan with clear procedures and protocols regarding the wellness needs of students and employees
      4. Dates of training on the District Plan regarding the wellness needs of students and employees to be provided to the appropriate Administrator of Schools (annually)
      5. Data from early warning systems for student interventions
      6. Description of suicide, bullying, and violence prevention efforts
      7. Data from Skyward behavior logs
      8. School counselor student visit data
  4. The Board of Education will receive quarterly reports on school safety drills and incidents as well as anecdotal reports of efforts to establish an emotionally safe environment. The Board will report annually to the community on the physical and mental safety of students.

  • Effective: 9/27/2011
  • Revision: 2/27/18
  • Reviewed: 9/22/2015

  1. Board Directive
    The Board recognizes the importance of providing education about concussions and head injuries for coaches, school personnel, volunteers, parents, and students, and seeks to provide a safe return to activity for all students following any injury, but particularly after a concussion or other traumatic head injury.  In order to effectively and consistently manage these injuries, procedures have been developed to aid in ensuring that students with traumatic head injuries are identified, treated and referred appropriately, receive appropriate follow-up medical care during the school day, and are fully recovered prior to returning to activity. The Board delegates to the Administration responsibility for policy and procedures to manage concussions and traumatic head injuries.
  2. Administrative Policy
    Management of concussions and traumatic head injuries in Jordan School District shall be administered in accordance with the following administrative policy provisions, and in compliance with  Utah Code 26-53 and Utah State Board of Education Rule R277-614:

    1. All Sporting Events (Including High School)
      1. “Sporting events” shall be defined to include games, classes, tryouts and activities that take place during the regular school day, as well as extracurricular athletic activities sponsored by the school.
      2. The Jordan School District document Guidelines for Management of Sport-Related Concussions and Head Injuries shall be followed in evaluation of head injuries and in determining appropriate action and response.
      3. A copy of this policy, as well as the Guidelines for Management of Sport-Related Concussions and Head Injuries, shall be posted on the District website.
      4. All appropriate staff shall attend a yearly in-service meeting in which procedures for managing sporting event-related concussions are reviewed.
      5. Coaches, teachers, school employees, representatives or volunteers shall remove a student from a sporting event or other physical activity, including recess, field day, or physical education class, if the student is suspected of sustaining a concussion or a traumatic head injury.
      6. In the event a student sustains a head injury during the school day or an extracurricular athletic activity, that student’s parent or guardian must be notified using the form provided by District nursing staff.
      7. The injured student is prohibited from continued participation in a sporting event until the student is evaluated by a trained, qualified health care professional who provides the school with a written statement stating that they have successfully completed a continuing education course in the evaluation and management of a concussion and that the student is cleared to resume participation in the sporting event.All Sporting Events (Including High School)
    2. School-Sponsored Extracurricular Athletic Activities (High School Only)
      1. A copy of Guidelines for Management of Sport-Related Concussions and Head Injuries shall be provided to parents of students participating in school-sponsored extracurricular athletic activities.
      2. The school must obtain the signature of a parent or legal guardian of the child acknowledging that the parent or guardian has read, understands, and agrees to abide by the concussion and head injury policy and guidelines.
      3. Students may not participate in a school-sponsored extracurricular athletic activity until a signed acknowledgement has been submitted by a parent or legal guardian as described in above.
    3. Academics
      1. Annual training will be provided to licensed employees to help educators better understand the potential academic impacts of concussions and traumatic head injuries on students and the accommodations available to educators.
      2. Educators should work with families to help make appropriate accommodations to prevent students from suffering an academic penalty as a result of a concussion or traumatic head injury, and that such injuries are not exacerbated through the strain of coursework. Based on recommendations from a physician, student accommodations may include, but are not limited to:
        1. Assembling a 504 team to determine eligibility and potentially develop a 504 plan. This option involves additional educators and parents in a formal process to determine appropriate accommodations as a team.
        2. Assigning a “P” grade in place of a letter grade in order to provide credit without affecting the student’s GPA.
        3. Assigning an “I” grade in place of a letter grade in order to give students more time to complete coursework.
        4. Allowing additional time to complete coursework.
        5. Reducing the coursework required.
        6. Developing a Health Plan according to policy AS88 Health Care Services for Students with Special Needs.
        7. Continuing coursework through the Home and Hospital program.
        8. Freezing a grade.
        9. Providing a variety of assessments.
        10. Allowing for oral work in place of written work.

  • Effective: 1/7/03
  • Revision: 10/29/2024
  • Reviewed: 5/28/13

  1. Board Directive
    The Board of Education is committed to providing an employment environment that is free from unlawful harassment and other forms of unlawful discrimination based upon race, color, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or pregnancy-related conditions, religion, national origin, age (if the individual is 40 years of age or older), disability, sexual orientation or gender identity.  It is the intent of this policy to prohibit discrimination or harassment against any individual or class of persons specifically enumerated as protected under the Civil Rights Acts of the United States and the Utah Anti-Discrimination Act (UCA §34A-5-101 et seq.).  It is not the intent of this policy to broaden coverage beyond those classifications specifically protected by federal or state statute.  The responsibility for policy regarding employee discrimination and harassment is delegated to the District Administration.
  2. Administrative Policy
    This policy is adopted to assist Jordan School District employees in moving toward a workplace that is free of unlawful discrimination or harassment.  It is the policy of Jordan School District to provide fair, expeditious and uniform procedures for investigation and resolution of claims of unlawful discrimination or harassment.

    1.  Definitions
      1. Clearly Offensive Conduct:  That conduct, be it verbal or nonverbal, which when perceived in its overall context, would be taken by a reasonable person, similarly situated, to be strongly objectionable.
      2. Complainant:  A person who files a written or oral complaint about unlawful discrimination or harassment.
      3. Compliance Officer: Person or persons designated by the Superintendent to receive and process complaints of unlawful discrimination or harassment (harassment or discrimination based on membership in a protected category, i.e., race, color, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or pregnancy-related conditions, religion, national origin, age (if the individual is 40 years of age or older), disability, sexual orientation or gender identity).
      4. Demeaning or Derisive Behavior:  Unlawful behavior which substantially lowers the status, dignity or standing of another individual, or which insults or otherwise belittles or shows contempt for another individual.
      5. Disability:  An individual's physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, a record of such an impairment, or being regarded as having such an impairment.
      6. Discrimination: Conduct, including words or gestures and other actions, which adversely affects an employee’s working environment or results in disparate treatment based upon membership in a protected category (i.e. race, color, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or pregnancy-related conditions, religion, national origin, age (if the individual is 40 years of age or older), disability, sexual orientation or gender identity.  Discrimination does not include referral to or use of regular District Administration processes relating to employee evaluation and discipline.
      7. Harassment: A form of discrimination that includes unlawful conduct of an offensive nature that is demeaning or derisive or occurs substantially because of the employee’s membership in a protected category (i.e., race, color, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or pregnancy-related conditions, religion, national origin, age (if the individual is 40 years of age or older), disability, sexual orientation or gender identity) and which creates a hostile work environment.  Harassment may include but is not limited to any of the three categories listed below:
        1. Generalized Harassment:  Includes intentional behavior directed at an entire group which is based on demeaning or derisive stereotypes, and is severe enough that it creates a hostile working environment. Examples include comments or jokes, physical gestures, or visual displays such as posters, etc.
        2. Individually Targeted Harassment:  Includes intentional, criminal or non-criminal behavior that is targeted at an individual or particular members of a group, which can be verbal, physical, or visual that is severe enough or pervasive enough that it adversely affects the working environment. Examples include negative or offensive comments, jokes, suggestions, or gestures directed to an individual's or group's race, ethnicity or national origin.
        3. Criminal Harassment:  Harassing behavior which violates state or federal criminal statutes. Examples include criminal assault, sexual assault, rape, criminal mischief, stalking, arson, or trespass.
      8. Respondent:  A person named in a discrimination or harassment complaint as having engaged in or being responsible for a discriminatory or harassing act or omission.
      9. Retaliation:  Any form or sanction, restraint, coercion, discrimination, harassment, or adverse treatment against a person because that person has asserted, or has assisted another person to assert, a discrimination or harassment complaint in either a formal or informal manner with the District, or with any state or federal agency, or because that person has testified, assisted or participated in any manner in an investigation, proceeding or hearing related to a discrimination or harassment complaint.
      10. Sexual Harassment: All complaints of sexual harassment should be directed first to the Title IX Coordinator for a preliminary jurisdictional review. If the complaint falls under Title IX jurisdiction, it shall be addressed through policy AA452 — Title IX Sexual Harassment. If it does not fall under Title IX jurisdiction, the complaint shall be dismissed for purposes of Title IX and directed back to Human Resources for investigation pursuant to this policy.
        Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination.  It consists of unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and/or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that is based on one or more of the following conditions:

        1. Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly as a term or condition to work benefit.
        2. Submission to or rejection of such conduct by a co-worker is used as the basis for decisions affecting the work environment.
        3. Such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an employee’s work performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working environment.
        4. Sexual harassment includes:
          1. Hostile Environment:  The three levels of hostile environment are the same as those listed above in 7. a.-c.; e.g., generalized harassment, individually targeted harassment, and criminal harassment.
          2. Harassment which culminates in a tangible action which alters the conditions of the working environment (previously called quid pro quo).
    2. Complaint Procedure
      1. The following options are available for those who believe they are victims of discrimination or harassment, or who witness such acts:
        1. Seek to resolve issue through a supervisor or administrative personnel.
        2. Report the concern by calling the District Non-Compliance Hotline or completing the form on the District Non-compliance webpage.
        3. Register a formal complaint with the District Compliance Officer who will initiate an initial assessment and possible investigation.
      2. Any employee who knows of a violation of this policy must report such conduct to a supervisor, administrator, or the District Compliance Officer.
      3. The initial allegation of discrimination or harassment may be submitted either verbally or in writing to the immediate supervisor/administrator. A complaint made to the District Compliance Officer must be in writing.
    3. Investigative Procedures
      1. Initial Assessment: When any complaint is filed under this policy or when a complaint is referred through this policy from the Title IX Team, an initial assessment is conducted to determine whether the reported conduct falls under the scope of this policy.
        1. This assessment involves a preliminary review of the details provided in the complaint to decide if the alleged conduct, if proven true, would constitute a violation of this policy.
          1. If the alleged conduct would not (even if proven true) constitute a violation of this policy, the matter will be dismissed in favor of Human Resources assistance, such as mediation or other policy involvement.
          2. If the alleged conduct would constitute a violation of this policy, the matter will be assigned for investigation.
      2.  If an investigation reveals evidence of criminal conduct, the matter will be referred to local law enforcement for criminal investigation.  The District will conduct its own internal investigation independent of law enforcement officials to determine whether District policy was violated.
      3. All investigations will be treated with discretion to protect the privacy of those involved. All efforts will be made to treat the information as confidential; however, absolute confidentiality of all information obtained through an investigation cannot be guaranteed.
      4. The respondent (person alleged to have engaged in the reported conduct) may not contact the complainant during an investigation without the permission of District.
      5. When conducting investigations, the District Compliance Officer shall disclose his/her role as a neutral investigator rather than an advocate for any party. The extent of the investigation will be determined, among other factors, by the nature and severity of the charges.
      6. An investigation shall be completed with fairness and reasonable speed, typically within 30 working days of receipt of the complaint, unless extenuating circumstances require a longer period.
      7. After the conclusion of the investigation, the District Compliance Officer shall provide all parties a written disposition of the complaint.
      8. The parties will then have 10 working days to provide written responses to the report and have them considered by the District Compliance Officer.
    4. Disciplinary Procedures
      Any employee who has been found in violation of this policy will be subject to the following disciplinary procedures:

      1. A first substantiated offense, if minor in nature, will result in a written reprimand to be entered in the employee's personnel file.  Should the first offense be determined to be of a serious nature, the employee will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination in accordance with District Policy DP316 NEG – Orderly Termination Procedures.
      2. A second substantiated offense shall result in  disciplinary action up to and including termination in accordance with District Policy DP 316 NEG – Orderly Termination Procedures.
    5. Retaliation
      Retaliation under this policy is prohibited.  Individuals found to have engaged in retaliatory conduct will face disciplinary action, up to and including termination in accordance with District Policy DP316 NEG– Orderly Termination Procedures.
    6. Records
      Records of all discrimination or harassment complaints shall be maintained by the District. Information gathered, developed, and documented in the investigation will be classified as a protected record.
    7. Outside Reporting Procedures
      Nothing in this policy shall prohibit a person from filing a discrimination or harassment claim with Utah Anti-Discrimination and Labor Division (UALD) or the Equal Opportunity Commission (EEOC).  If an employee pursues a claim of discrimination or harassment, he/she should be aware that Utah is a “dual filing” state, which means that a complaint filed with the UALD will be forwarded to the EEOC.  An employee has 180 calendar days from the alleged date of discrimination or harassment to file a claim with the UALD.

  • Effective: 11/9/1993
  • Revision: 10/29/2024
  • Reviewed: 5/28/2013

  1. Board Directive
    Jordan School District is committed to providing an educational environment that is free from illegal harassment and other forms of discrimination based upon sex, race, color, ethnic background, national origin, religion, gender, creed, age, citizenship, or disability.  The Board, therefore, delegates to the District Administration responsibility for establishing policy regarding student discrimination and harassment.
  2. Administrative Policy
    No student or employee of the Jordan School District may engage in illegally harassing conduct that creates a hostile learning environment for students or staff of the district.  It is the policy of Jordan School District to provide fair, expeditious and uniform procedures for investigation and resolution of claims of illegal harassment or discrimination.

    1.  Definitions
      1. Clearly Offensive Conduct:  That conduct, be it verbal or nonverbal, which when perceived in its overall context, would be taken by a reasonable person, similarly situated, to be strongly objectionable.
      2. Complainant:  A person who files a written or oral complaint about illegal harassment.
      3. Compliance Officer:  Person or persons designated by the Superintendent to receive and process complaints of discrimination.
      4. Demeaning or Derisive Behavior:  Behavior which substantially lowers the status, dignity or standing of another individual, or which insults or otherwise belittles or shows contempt for another individual.
      5. Disability:  An individual's physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, a record of such an impairment, or being regarded as having such an impairment.
      6. Discrimination:  Conduct, including words or gestures and other actions, which adversely affects a student's learning environment or results in disparate treatment based upon their immutable characteristics such as sex, race, color, ethnic background, national origin, religion, gender, creed, age, citizenship, or disability.
      7. Harassment:   Unwelcome conduct of an offensive nature that is demeaning or derisive or occurs substantially because of race, color, ethnic background, national origin, religion, gender, creed, age, citizenship or disability and which creates a hostile educational environment.  Harassment shall include one or more of the three levels described below.  If conduct is clearly offensive, only one incident may be necessary to establish harassment:
        1. Level One—Generalized Harassment:  Includes intentional behavior directed at an entire group that is based on demeaning or derisive stereotypes, and is so severe or pervasive that it creates a hostile learning environment.
          Examples include comments or jokes, physical gestures or visual displays such as posters, etc.
        2. Level Two—Individually Targeted Harassment:  Includes intentional, non-criminal behavior that is targeted at an individual or particular members of a group, which can be verbal, physical or visual that is so severe or pervasive that it adversely affects the learning environment.
          Examples include negative or offensive comments, jokes, suggestions or gestures directed to an individual's or group's race, color, ethnic background, national origin, religion, gender, creed, age, citizenship or disabilityr.
        3. Level Three—Criminal Harassment:  Harassing behavior which violates state or federal criminal statutes.
          Examples include criminal harassment, criminal assault, sexual assault, rape, criminal mischief, stalking, arson, or trespass.
      8. Respondent:  A person named in a discrimination complaint as having engaged in or being responsible for, a discriminatory act or omission.
      9. Retaliation:  Any form or sanction, restraint, coercion, discrimination or adverse treatment against a person because that person has asserted, or has assisted another person to assert, a discrimination complaint in either a formal or informal manner with the district, or with any state or federal agency, or because that person has testified, assisted or participated in any manner in an investigation, proceeding or hearing related to a discrimination complaint.
      10. Sexual Harassment:  Matters pertaining to sexual harassment that do not meet the definition outlined in Jordan School District’s Title IX Sexual Harassment policy (AA452)  or otherwise do not occur in an educational program or activity or do not occur against a person within the United States, will be referred by the Title IX Coordinator to the appropriate school administrator for investigation and adjudication under this policy after the case is officially dismissed under the District’s Title IX Policy (AA452).
      11. Sexual Misconduct:  Unwelcome sexual actions or conduct either non-physical or physical, that is offensive to the sensibilities of any person, including sexual advances, lewd gestures, and words or other communication of a sexual nature, that has the effect of threatening or intimidating the person against whom such conduct is directed, but does not meet the definition of sexual harassment under the District’s Title IX Sexual Harassment policy (AA452).
      12. Hostile Environment:  Unwelcome conduct directed toward a particular person or persons, based in whole or in part upon protected status (race, color, ethnic background, national origin, religion, gender, creed, age, citizenship or disability), that is unwelcome, severe, pervasive or objectively offensive, that it interferes with the target person’s academic pursuits or participation in school/District-sponsored activities. A hostile environment is one that a reasonable person in similar circumstances and with similar identities would find hostile, intimidating, or abusive and objectively offensive. An isolated incident, unless sufficiently severe, does not constitute a hostile environment.
    2. Complaint Procedure
      1. Any student or employee who knows of a violation of this policy is expected to report such conduct to a teacher, administrator or the District Compliance Officer.
      2. The initial allegation of harassment may be submitted either orally or in writing.
    3. Complaint and Investigative Procedures
      1. The following procedure is available for students who believe they are victims of harassment or discrimination under this policy, or who witness such acts:
        1. Seek to resolve issues through school administrative personnel through an informal complaint process.
        2. Register a formal complaint with the school administrator.
        3. Student’s due process rights will be respected during the investigation process.
      2. If an investigation reveals evidence of criminal conduct, the matter will be referred to local law enforcement. The school administration will also conduct its own internal investigation independently of law enforcement officials to determine if District policy has been violated.
      3. All investigations will be treated with discretion to protect the privacy of those involved. All efforts will be made to treat the information confidentially; however, absolute confidentiality of all information obtained through an investigation cannot be guaranteed.
      4. A written mutual no-contact order should be imposed once a formal complaint is filed. Neither party should directly or indirectly (through third parties) make contact with the other party. Violations of this no-contact order will be investigated as a separate violation of an administrative directive.
      5. When conducting investigations, the school administrator shall disclose his/her role as a neutral investigator rather than an advocate for any party. The extent of the investigation will be determined, among other factors, by the nature and severity of the allegations.
      6. An investigation shall be completed as quickly as practicable, but within 30-45 calendar days of receipt of the complaint, unless extenuating circumstances require a longer period. In these cases, all parties shall be notified of the extension of time.
      7. Within 10 working days of the conclusion of the investigation, the school administrator shall provide all parties a written disposition of the complaint.
      8. If a student or parent/guardian feels the school administration has not properly addressed the complaint of discrimination/harassment, they may file a formal complaint with the District Compliance Officer, who may conduct an investigation into the matter. The District Compliance Officer may dismiss the complaint if the allegations, if proven true, would not violate this policy.
    4. Retaliation
      Retaliation under this policy is prohibited.  Individuals found to have engaged in retaliatory conduct will face disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion from the District or termination from employment.
    5. Records
      Records of all discrimination or harassment investigations shall be maintained by the school administrator. These records are protected by FERPA. As consistent with state and federal reporting requirements, these complaints may be reported to government agencies or organizations.
    6. Outside Reporting Procedures
      Nothing in this policy shall prohibit a person from filing an education discrimination claim with the Office of Civil Rights:
      Office for Civil Rights
      Denver Office
      U.S. Department of Education
      Cesar E. Chavez Memorial Building
      1244 Speer Boulevard, Suite 310
      Denver, CO 80204-3582
      Telephone: (303) 844-5695
      Facsimile: (303) 844-4303
      Email: OCR.Denver@ed.gov
    7. Actions to Include When Appropriate
      1. Procedures for protecting the Complainant, Respondent, and other involved individuals from being subjected to further harassment or discrimination or retaliation for reporting harassment or discrimination:
        1. Referral of the Complainant and/or Respondent to the school psychologist, counselor, or other appropriate support personnel.
        2. Academic supportive measures to address any issues related to access to the educational environment.
        3. Procedures for a fair and timely opportunity for the accused to explain the accusations and defend his/her actions prior to student discipline.
        4. Incidents pursuant to this policy will be reported to the Civil Rights Data Collection and to the District Administration, as needed.
      2. Students engaging in harassment or discrimination are subject to District Policy AS67 — Discipline of Students.

  • Effective: 5/23/1989
  • Revision: 12/8/2015
  • Reviewed: 8/25/2015

  1. Board Directive
    Jordan School District has a responsibility to maintain public trust and confidence by providing a safe environment for students, employees, volunteers and patrons.  The District also has a responsibility to assure, so far as reasonably possible, that all employees are able to assume their duties and carry out the tasks for which they were hired.  Consequently, since abuse of drugs and alcohol in the work place decreases employee safety and productivity, adherence to this Substance Abuse-Free Work Environment Policy is a condition of employment for all Jordan District employees.  Adherence is vital for all employees.  This policy is written to comply with all requirements found in state and federal law, including: 41 USC 81 et seq., the Federal Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988;Utah Code §34-41-101 et seq.; Utah Code §26-38 et seq.; Utah Code §53G-8-602 et seq.; Utah Code §58-37-8 et seq.; Utah Code §58-37a-5 et seq.; Utah Code §53-10-211 et seq.; Utah Administrative Code R477-14; Utah Administrative Code R392-510; and Utah State Office of Education, Pupil Transportation Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy.
    The Board delegates to the Administration the responsibility for establishing policy that promotes a substance abuse-free work environment and developing procedures for dealing with policy violations.  Compliance with this policy is mandatory consistent with federal and state law.
  2. Administrative Policy
    The Administration is committed to establishing and maintaining a substance abuse-free work environment.  Therefore, District employees and volunteers are prohibited from the following while on District property, while operating a District vehicle or while attending any school-sponsored activity or event:

    • Manufacturing, dispensing, possessing, distributing, consuming, using or being under the influence of or using any unlawful controlled substance, drug paraphernalia or alcohol.
    • Manufacturing, dispensing, distributing, consuming or using an electronic cigarette or tobacco in any form.

    Any employee or volunteer found in violation may be subject to possible legal actions and/or disciplinary actions including but not limited to probation, suspension, and/or termination of employment or removal as a volunteer.  Administrative policy provisions and due process procedures for employees who violate the substance Abuse-Free Work Environment are outlined in District policies, including DP374 – Employment Background Checks; DP316 NEG—Orderly Termination Procedure; Licensed; DP316A—Orderly Termination Procedures – Administrators; and DP316B—Orderly Termination Procedures - Education Support Professionals.

    1. Definitions
      1. Safety Sensitive Positions:  Positions which directly affect the safety of District employees and/or the general public during the course of performing job duties (i.e. District vehicle driving, etc.).
      2. Random Testing:  Testing of employees in safety sensitive positions as part of a District random drug testing program.
      3. Reasonable suspicion:  An articulated belief based on the recorded specific facts and reasonable inferences drawn from those facts that an employee is in violation of the drug-free workplace policy.
      4. Rehabilitative Testing:  Unannounced testing of preselected employees done as part of a program of counseling, education, and treatment of an employee in conjunction with the District’s Drug and Alcohol policy.
      5. Medical Review Officer (MRO):  A trained practitioner at the testing facility authorized to administer and interpret controlled substance and alcohol tests.
      6. Drug testing:  The scientific analysis for the presence of drugs or their metabolites in the human body in accordance with the definitions and terms of Utah Code §34-41-101 et seq.
      7. Sample:  Means urine or breath sample.
      8. Electronic Cigarette: Any electronic oral device that provides a vapor of nicotine or other substance and which simulates smoking through its use or through inhalation of the vapor through the device; and includes an oral device that is composed of a heating element, battery, or electronic circuit and marketed, manufactured, distributed, or sold as an e-cigarette, vapor sticks, e-pipe, or any other product name or descriptor, if the function of the product meets the definition of an electronic oral device.
    2. Procedures for Implementation
      1. Training:  All employees are expected to receive training regarding this policy during the Onboarding process and through the critical policy review process at the start of each school year.
      2. Types of Testing:  Testing may be administered under the following conditions:
        1. Pre-employment testing for controlled substances for school bus drivers and employees in other safety sensitive positions.
        2. Random testing for controlled substances and alcohol for employees in safety sensitive positions.
        3. Reasonable suspicion testing for controlled substances and alcohol for all District employees.  This may include, but is not limited to, any one or more of the following:
          1. Observable symptoms of use or of being under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
          2. Presence of drug or alcohol paraphernalia.
          3. Any involvement (even indirectly) in an accident or near-miss that resulted or may have resulted in an employee injury or property damage or loss.
          4. Reports of drug or alcohol possession, use and/or distribution.
          5. Unexplained or suspicious absenteeism or tardiness.
          6. Unexplained significant deterioration in employee performance or behavior.
          7. Criminal citations, arrests or convictions as outlined in District Policy DP374 – Employment Background Checks.
          8. Any behavior or statements that would suggest that drugs or alcohol are present in the body.
        4. Post-accident or critical incident investigation testing for controlled substances and alcohol for all employees.
        5. Rehabilitative testing for controlled substances and alcohol for all District employees.
        6. Prior to return to duty or as a condition of continued employment if alcohol or controlled substances is the reason for a District employee’s absence from duty.
        7.  As a follow up in combination with a mutually agreed upon rehabilitation program.
      3. Testing:  Drug and alcohol testing shall be conducted in accordance with Utah Code §34-41-104 by an independent laboratory certified for employment drug and alcohol testing.
        1. Drug and alcohol testing results shall be confirmed using reliable testing methods and communicated to both the Human Resources department and the current or prospective employee by the MRO.
        2. Current or prospective employees shall be informed of their option for a split urine sample test at the employee’s shared expense in accordance with Utah Code §34-41-103 and Utah Code §34-41-104.
      4. Testing Required:  Employees required to participate in testing will make themselves available for testing as soon as notified by their supervisor.  Employees who refuse to submit for a test under this policy will be subject to employment discipline including termination.
      5. Sample Collection:
        1. The collection of samples shall be performed under reasonable and sanitary conditions and in a manner reasonably calculated to prevent substitutions or interference with the collection or testing of the sample.
        2. Reasonable measures will be taken to ensure the privacy of the individual being tested during sample collection.
        3. Samples collected shall be labeled and sealed to reasonably preclude the probability of erroneous identification of test results.
        4. The individual being tested shall have the opportunity to provide notification of any information relevant to the test, such as prescription and non-prescription medications used.  The individual may also provide information in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.
        5. Sample collection, storage and transportation to the testing facility shall be performed in a manner that reasonably precludes the probability of sample misidentification, contamination, or adulteration.
        6. Sample testing conforms to scientifically accepted analytical methods and procedures.
      6. Results:  The drug testing facility shall communicate all drug test results to Human Resources.
        1. Positive results:  The MRO will determine whether there is a legitimate medical explanation for the result.  If no legitimate medical explanation exists, the MRO will inform Human Resources and the sample donor of the positive results.  Human Resources will remove the employee from duty and inform the employee of the option to have a split urine sample tested at a shared expense as provided for by Utah Code §34-41-103 and Utah Code §34-41-104.  Human Resources will then initiate disciplinary action.  At any disciplinary hearing, in addition to considering the initial test results, the test results of the any split urine sample shall be considered.
    3.  Violations
      1. Convictions or Arrests
        1. Employees arrested or convicted for a substance abuse-related activity are required to report the arrest or conviction to the Administrator of Human Resources within forty-eight (48) hours or the next business day, whichever is greater, as outlined in District Policy DP374 – Employment Background Checks.
        2. The District will follow established reporting guidelines when notifying the Utah State Office of Education.
        3. Any arrest or conviction for substance abuse-related activity or failure to report an arrest or conviction will result in disciplinary action as outlined in District Policy DP374 – Employment Background Checks.
        4. The District will provide adequate due process for the employee as outlined in District policies DP316 NEG—Orderly Termination Procedures – Licensed; DP316A—Orderly Termination Procedures – Administrators; and DP316B—Orderly Termination Procedures - Education Support Professionals.
    4. Discipline
      In the event an employee tests positive for unlawful controlled substances; tests positive for alcohol; refuses to submit to a drug or alcohol test; attempts to taint, avoid, delay or circumvent the testing process; is arrested (charged or convicted) on a alcohol or drug-related offense; or violates this policy in some other way, the District will initiate appropriate administrative and criminal investigations, and a confirmed violation of this policy may result in discipline up to and including termination of employment.
    5. Employee Assistance
      1. An employee who feels he/she may have alcohol and/or drug dependency problem is encouraged to contact the District Employee Assistance Program (EAP).  Employees are responsible to seek assistance for substance abuse problems before policy infractions occur and disciplinary action is necessary.
      2. The District will provide an EAP at no cost designed to provide professional and confidential assistance to employees.
      3. Employees are encouraged to seek short-term help from the Jordan Family Education Center at no cost.
      4. The District will provide a reasonable accommodation to seek treatment for employees who voluntarily report dependency problems.  Employees needing extensive help from a licensed treatment facility (in-patient or out-patient) will incur all associated treatment costs.
      5. Once the substance abuse policy is violated, subsequent enrollment in a treatment program will not necessarily lessen disciplinary action and may have no bearing on the determination of appropriate disciplinary action.

  • Effective: 6/14/1988
  • Revision: 5/26/2015
  • Reviewed: 5/28/2013

  1. Board Directive
    The Board of Education holds the expectation that all interactions between employees and students are professional and appropriate.  Therefore, the Board directs the District Administration to develop a scope of employment policy regarding interactions between students and staff members which stem from school relationships.  In addition, the Board directs the Administration to designate that certain activities pertaining to dangerous weapons are outside the scope of an employee’s employment.
  2. Administrative Policy
    The scope of employment policy shall be administered according to the following administrative policy provisions and applies to all employees, contract employees, and volunteers.

    1. Instruction, counseling, and administrative tasks and all other planned school contact with students shall be accomplished at the school during regular school hours.
      1. If special circumstances make it necessary for a District employee to meet with one or more students outside the regular school day or at a location other than the school, prior written approval from the principal is required.
      2. When a student requires staff assistance outside the regular school day because of an emergency or unanticipated occurrence, the employee shall notify the principal of the occurrence as soon as possible.
      3. All transportation of students in personal vehicles by District employees shall be avoided, unless the students are members of the employee’s immediate family or a student must be transported by an employee due to an emergency situation where the health, safety or welfare of the student is at immediate risk.  If such travel cannot be avoided and the transportation of a student is not life threatening, written permission must be obtained in advance from the parent and principal.
    2. All extracurricular activities outside regular school hours or off school property must be authorized in advance and in writing by the school principal in accordance with District Policy AA444—Employee Involvement in Private, But Public Education-Related Activities.
    3. After-hour activities involving students are to be held at the school whenever possible.  If another location is necessary, prior written approval from the school principal is required.
    4. Employees shall not charge a fee for any tutoring services provided to students at the school within school hours.  Employees may charge a fee for tutoring services outside of contract hours, only in accordance with District Policy AA444.
    5. District employees have the responsibility to communicate with students and their parents or guardians in a professional manner.  Text messages to students must be of a professional, not personal nature.  All communication using social media must be in compliance with District policies, including Jordan School District Policy DP371 Employee Information Network Acceptable Use and the Social Media Guidelines.  The message content, context and frequency will be used to determine if disciplinary action is taken by the District.
    6. Unless otherwise provided for by law, possession, or use of a firearm, weapon, or other dangerous materials (as defined in section G, below) by any employee in a District building, in or on District property, in conjunction with any District activity, or while traveling in District funded or dispatched vehicles, is in violation of Jordan School District Policy, and will be subject to disciplinary sanctions which may include termination. Possessing, using, selling, or attempting to possess, use or sell any such dangerous materials on District property or in District vehicles is prohibited regardless of intent.  Exceptions to this prohibition are for employees that use tools or materials that are required as part of their job function (as defined in section H, below) and for current holders of a lawfully issued concealed firearm permit (as set forth in section I, below) applying only to firearms, not to any other prohibited weapon or other dangerous materials.
    7. Dangerous materials include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following:  firearms (including antique firearms), weapons, knives, swords, explosive/incendiary devices, dangerous chemicals, noxious or flammable materials, martial arts weapons or other instruments including those which eject a projectile or substance of any kind, or any replica or facsimile of any of the above, whether functional or nonfunctional, whether designed for use as a weapon or when any object or substance is used as a weapon.
    8. Authorized use or possession of dangerous materials and tools when used in connection with a District approved activity or job function must be in the possession or under the control or supervision of the person authorized and responsible for the activity (e.g.: cooking, consumer science, CTE, chemistry classes, custodial, maintenance and repair).
    9. The law provides that a qualified person may receive a permit “to carry a concealed firearm for lawful self defense” UCA §§53-5-704(1),-705.  A concealed dangerous weapon means “a dangerous weapon that is covered, hidden or secreted in a manner that the public would not be aware of its presence and is readily accessible for immediate use.” UCA §76-10-501(3)(a)(i).  Therefore, any lawfully concealed firearm on District property or in District vehicles must remain concealed such that the public is not aware of its presence.
    10. District property may not be used to hide, cover or secret a firearm.  A lawfully concealed firearm must be within the employee’s immediate control at all times.  Employees must recognize that students could gain access to a firearm that is not properly concealed, or controlled.  Therefore, employees must use good judgment and strictly follow the law and this policy.
    11. An employee of Jordan School District who obtains a concealed weapons permit does so in his or her own individual capacity.  Any use of such weapons is outside the scope of employment, is contrary to the purposes of employment by the District and is done solely in the employee’s personal capacity, not as an employee of the District.  Any and all liabilities, damages, demands, claims, actions or proceedings in law or equity, including attorney’s fees and costs to suit, relating to or arising out of an employee decision to carry, threaten use, or use a weapon will be the sole responsibility of that employee without recourse to, or liability protection from or through the District.

  • Effective: 2/23/1988
  • Revision: 6/22/2004
  • Reviewed: 4/26/2013

  1. Board Policy
    The Board recognizes that employees should not be subject to abuse in the workplace, and delegates to the District Administration responsibility for developing guidelines for handling incidents of verbal and physical abuse.
  2. Administration Policy
    Abuse will be considered any verbal or physical conduct which places an employee at risk or in fear of personal safety including verbal or physical threats, gross profanity, intimidating gestures, or physical contact such as kicking, striking, pushing, or physically assaulting with or without a weapon. Abusive conduct, physical or verbal, will not be tolerated.
    Guidelines

    1. Procedures for handling abuse/assault incidents.
      1. Employees will take appropriate precautionary measures to avoid abuse/assault incidents.
      2. If an abuse/assault incident occurs, abused employees will immediately notify their immediate supervisor.
      3. The immediate supervisor will conduct an initial evaluation of the incident, requesting assistance from his/her division administrator, Jordan District police officers or other police officers as appropriate.
        1. In cases of abuse/assault or threatened abuse/assault, an employee may be removed from the building until the immediate supervisor determines it is safe for the employee to return.
        2. Employees who are removed from a building for safety reasons shall be placed on leave with pay.
        3. Paid leave taken for safety reasons does not impact the individual's other leave benefits.
      4. Statements will be taken from all parties involved and from witnesses to the incident.
      5. Related evidence will be gathered or recorded photographically.
      6. Victims of physical abuse will undergo a physical examination by a qualified physician at district expense even if injury is minimal.
      7. The district will make restitution to an employee for verifiable damage or loss of personal property to the extent the district's liability insurance provides such coverage.
      8. Employees whose clothing, glasses, or other items worn upon the body are damaged or destroyed as the result of an assault shall be reimbursed for verifiable damages.
    2. Disposition of abuse/assault incidents
      1. All incidents of employee abuse will be reported to the District compliance officer.
      2. The District compliance officer will be responsible to follow through with the case and take the necessary steps to assure that the issue is resolved and appropriate disciplinary policies and procedures are implemented.

  • Effective: 7/8/1986
  • Revision: 8/24/2021

  1. Board Directive
    The Board recognizes that the possession, use, or distribution of illegal drugs, alcoholic beverages, or other prohibited substances constitutes a hazard to students and is disruptive to the educational process.  The Board mandates, consistent with federal and state law, the development and implementation of programs that: 1) provide information about the harmful effects of drug and alcohol use, 2) coordinate efforts by schools and parents or guardians in preventing drug and alcohol use, 3) assist parents or guardians of students who use drugs or alcohol in seeking professional help from public and private educational and rehabilitative agencies, and 4) use restorative practices consistent with State Board Rule R277-613.
    The Board delegates to the Administration, responsibility for providing:  1) drug and alcohol use prevention programs, 2) disciplinary procedures and consequences for students who possess, use, or distribute illegal drugs, alcoholic beverages, or prohibited substances on school district property, during school hours, or at school functions, 3) support for students and families in drug and alcohol use identification and prevention efforts, and 4) use of appropriate restorative practices.
  2. Administrative Policy
    The Administration recognizes the need to prevent the possession, use, and distribution of any substance listed in this policy on school district property, during school hours, and/or at any school-sponsored activity, including those held off school property.

    1. Illegal Substance Violations
      Substances defined as illegal, including violations under Utah Code §76-10-101 et. seq.,  §58-37-4 et. seq., or §32B-1-102 et. seq., (e.g.  illegal use of marijuana or any psychotoxic chemical, narcotics, opiates, alcoholic beverages, prescription medications containing controlled substances) are prohibited.

      1. Possessing (personal or property), using (consuming, inhaling, or injecting), or being under the influence of illegal substances
        1. First Violation
          1. ) A student possessing, using, or under the influence of illegal substances for the first time shall be suspended, whether in-school or out-of-school, pending a meeting with the school administrator and parent(s) or guardian(s).
          2. ) The student shall be enrolled in the Jordan District online First Offender Drug or Alcohol course. The student may return to school after providing a certificate of course completion or the student has missed five (5) school days.
          3. ) Parent(s) or guardian(s) will be required to coordinate homework assignments with a designated school representative during the intervening time.
          4. ) If the online course is not completed, the student may be placed in a school-based alternative education program to complete the course.
        2. Second Violation
          1. ) A student possessing, using, or under the influence of illegal substances for the second time shall be suspended, whether in-school or out-of-school, pending a meeting with the school administrator and parent(s) or guardian(s).
          2. ) At the meeting, the student shall be placed in a school or home-based alternative education program for ten (10) school days.
          3. ) In addition, the student who has a second violation must enroll in the District’s Substance Abuse and Family Education (S.A.F.E.) course and submit to a written assessment for potential substance dependence.
          4. ) The first session of the S.A.F.E. course must be attended prior to returning to school and the student may be placed in a school or home-based alternative education program if the course is not completed.
          5. ) A confirmation of the assessment appointment must be received by the administrator of Student Support Services before the student is readmitted to school.
          6. ) Parent(s) or guardian(s) will be required to coordinate homework assignments with a designated school representative during the intervening time.
        3. Third or Subsequent Violation
          A student possessing, using, or under the influence of illegal substances for the third time shall be suspended to a District Safe Schools Hearing pending a meeting with the school administrator and parent(s) or guardian(s).
      2. Distributing (Selling, Sharing, or Delivering)
        1. First Violation
          1. ) A student distributing illegal substances for the first time shall be suspended, whether in-school or out-of-school, pending a meeting with the school administrator and parent(s) or guardian(s).
          2. ) At the meeting, the student shall be placed in a school or home-based alternative education program for ten (10) school days.
          3. ) In addition, the student who has a distribution violation must enroll in the District’s Substance Abuse and Family Education (S.A.F.E.) course and submit to a written assessment for potential substance dependence.
          4. ) The first session of the S.A.F.E. course must be attended prior to returning to school and the student may be placed in a school or home-based alternative education program if the course is not completed.
          5. ) A confirmation of the assessment appointment must be received by the administrator of Student Support Services before the student is readmitted to school.
          6. ) Parent(s) or guardian(s) will be required to coordinate homework assignments with a designated school representative during the intervening time.
        2. Second or Subsequent Violation
          A student possessing, using, or distributing illegal substances following a first distribution violation shall be suspended to a District Safe Schools hearing pending a meeting with the school administrator and parent(s) or guardian(s).
    2. Counterfeit Substances Violations
      Any substance that is falsely represented to be any legally or illegally manufactured controlled substance that a reasonable person would believe to be a legal or illegal controlled substance. This is to include but not limited to the drugs listed on the DEA Drug Fact Sheet and counterfeit substances as defined in Utah Code §58-37-2 Utah Controlled Substances Act.

      1. Possessing (Personal or Property)
        1. First Violation
          1. ) A student possessing counterfeit substances for the first time shall be suspended, whether in-school or out-of-school, pending a meeting with the school administrator and parent(s) or guardian(s).
          2. ) At the meeting, this policy will be reviewed and written documentation of the violation will be placed in the student’s disciplinary file.
          3. ) The student shall be readmitted to school after the meeting.
        2. Second or Subsequent Violation
          1. ) A student possessing counterfeit substances for the second time shall be suspended, whether in-school or out-of-school, pending a meeting with the school administrator and parent(s) or guardian(s).
          2. ) The student shall be enrolled in the Jordan District online First Offenders Drug or Alcohol course.
          3. ) The student may return to school after providing a certificate of course completion or the student has missed five (5) school days.
          4. ) Parent(s) or guardian(s) will be required to coordinate homework assignments with a designated school representative during the intervening time.
          5. ) If the online course is not completed, the student may be placed in a school-based alternative education program to complete the course.
      2. Distributing (Selling, Sharing, or Delivering)
        1. First Violation
          1. ) A student distributing counterfeit substances for the first time shall be suspended, whether in-school or out-of-school, pending a meeting with the school administrator and parent(s) or guardian(s).
          2. ) At the meeting, this policy will be reviewed.
          3. ) Disciplinary consequences for distributing counterfeit substances will be a referral to the First Offenders Drug and Alcohol class.
        2. Second Violation
          1. ) A student distributing counterfeit substances for the second time shall be suspended, whether in-school or out-of-school pending a meeting with the school administrator and parent(s) or guardian(s).
          2. ) The student shall be enrolled in the Jordan District online First Offenders Drug or Alcohol course.
          3. ) The student may return to school after providing a certificate of course completion or the student has missed five (5) school days.
          4. ) Parent(s) or guardian(s) will be required to coordinate homework assignments with a designated school representative during the intervening time.
          5. ) If the online course is not completed, the student may be placed on a school-based alternative education program to complete the course
        3. Third or Subsequent Violation
          1. ) A student distributing counterfeit substances for the third time shall be suspended, whether in-school or out-of-school pending a meeting with the school administrator and parent(s) or guardian(s).
          2. ) At the meeting, the student shall be placed in a school or home-based alternative education program for ten (10) school days.
          3. ) In addition, the student who has a distribution violation must enroll in the District’s Substance Abuse and Family Education (S.A.F.E.) course and submit to a written assessment for potential substance dependence.
          4. ) The first session of the S.A.F.E. course must be attended prior to returning to school and the student may be placed in a school or home-based alternative education program if the course is not completed.
          5. ) A confirmation of the assessment appointment must be received by the administrator of Student Support Services before the student is readmitted to school.
          6. ) Parent(s) or guardian(s) will be required to coordinate homework assignments with a designated school representative during the intervening time.
    3. Medication Substance Violations
      Possession, use, influence, or distribution of prescription medications for which an individual has no prescription, including those with controlled substances listed in Utah Code §58-37-4, shall be administered according to the Illegal Substance Violations provisions of this policy.
      Possession, use, influence, or distribution of prescription medication for which an individual has a prescription or over-the-counter medication in excess of a 12-hour dose (or appropriate dosage amount for the school-sponsored activity) shall be administered as follows:

      1. First Violation
        1. A student possessing, using, under the influence, or distributing medication for the first time shall be suspended, whether in-school or out-of-school, pending a meeting with the school administrator and parent(s) or guardian(s).
      2. Second or Subsequent Violation
        1. A student possessing, using, under the influence, or distributing medication for the second or subsequent time shall be suspended, whether in-school or out-of-school, pending a meeting with the school administrator and parent(s) or guardian(s).
        2. Additional interventions including (but not limited to) those listed under the Illegal Substance Violation provisions of this policy may be used.
    4. Tobacco/Nicotine Violation
      Illegal possession of tobacco, cigarettes or any oral device that is composed of a heating element, battery, or electronic circuit and marketed, manufactured, distributed, or sold as an e-cigarette, vapor sticks, e-pipe, or any other product name or descriptor, if the function of the product meets the definition of an electronic oral device. (Utah Code §76-10-1-101, 104, 105, 111).

      1. Tobacco, tobacco/nicotine products, e-cigarettes, and paraphernalia shall be confiscated.
      2. Parent(s) or guardian(s) will be contacted by the school administrator.
      3. Possessing (Personal Property), Using (Consuming, Inhaling, Influence), or Distributing (Selling, Sharing, or Delivering)
        1. A student using, possessing, or distributing tobacco/nicotine may be suspended, whether in-school or out-of-school, and/or attend a tobacco cessation class online or in-person at the Jordan Family Education Center.
    5. Procedures
      1. Due process procedures outlined in policy AS67 Discipline of Students will be followed in the administration of this policy.
      2. All illegal activity covered by this policy will be reported to an appropriate law enforcement agency except as defined in Utah Code §53G-8-211. Jordan School District will enforce the disciplinary consequences outlined in this policy independent of any criminal charge or court action.
      3. Violations covered by this policy while off-campus but during regular school hours shall be subject to the provisions of this policy.
      4. Students found in possession of drug paraphernalia as defined in Utah Code §58-37a-3 will be subject to the Possession and Use of Illegal Substances section of this policy.
      5. During the time a student is on a school or home-based alternative education program, the student may not be a spectator or participant in any school-sponsored activity, including graduation exercises.
      6. If the designated days of school, home-based, or virtual alternative education cannot be completed by the end of the regular school year, the school, home-based, or virtual alternative education program shall be completed prior to attending a District school the following school year.
      7. Students placed on a home-based or virtual alternative education program (usually through a District Safe Schools Hearing), which may result in a multi-year placement, may not participate in any school-sponsored activity for the period of the placement.
      8. District personnel will assist with identifying appropriate agencies qualified to make written assessment of potential substance dependence for students who violate the provisions of this policy. These assessments will be at the expense of the parent(s) or guardian(s).
      9. Records will be maintained on all illegal substance violations by Student Support Services. A student with more than one violation in any thirty-six (36) month period will be considered a repeat offender even if the earlier violation(s) occurred in a prior school year, grade, level, or a different Jordan District school.
      10. Students violating this policy, may be suspended, placed on probation, leave, or removed from participation in leadership positions, candidacy for leadership positions, school organizations, academic teams and/or athletic teams.
      11. If an employee has reasonable cause to believe that a student has committed a prohibited act, he/she shall immediately report the violation to the school’s administrator (Utah Code §53G-8-502) who shall immediately report the violation to the student’s parent(s) or guardian(s). The violation may be reported to an appropriate law enforcement agency under Utah Code §53G-8-211. The identity of the educator who made the initial report may not be disclosed to the student or student’s parent(s) or guardian(s) (Utah Code §53G-8-503).
      12. When a violation of this policy constitutes a substantive health and/or safety concern for students or the school and after consultation and approval by the administrator in Student Support Services, the student may be suspended to a District Safe Schools Hearing.
      13. Students in a substance abuse treatment program that meets the licensing qualifications of the Utah State Department of Human Services may be awarded education credit as a part of the student’s Plan for College and Career Readiness (P.C.C.R.).
        1. One (1.0) elective credit may be earned for completion of an in-patient treatment program.
        2. Required and elective credit may also be earned during in-patient treatment through participation in an accredited educational program including virtual options.
        3. One (1.0) elective credit may be earned for participation in an approved aftercare program. A schedule of the aftercare program and verification of regular attendance must be submitted to the school.

Revision History: 1/27/09, 2/25/14, 5/24/16, 10/25/16, 9/25/18

Effective: 9/28/1981
Revision: 6/26/1990
Reviewed: 12/27/2012


  1. Board Directive
    The Board recognizes the need for a policy governing the protection of employees. Responsibility is delegated to the District Administration for implementing the policy according to established provisions.
  2. Administrative Policy
    The Protection of Employees policy will be implemented according to the following provisions:

    1. Employees shall report immediately in writing to their principal or immediate supervisor and to the Superintendent all cases of assault suffered in connection with their employment.
    2. If criminal or civil proceedings are brought against an employee alleging that he/she committed an assault in connection with his/her employment, such employee, after making reports, may request the Board to furnish legal counsel to defend him/her in such proceedings, insofar as the interests of the employee and the District are not conflicting. If the employee is found guilty or liable in such proceedings, such finding may constitute a cause for dismissal from the school system. Fines, damages, penalties, or forfeitures shall not be paid by the Board.
    3. Civil liability insurance coverage shall be provided for each employee to the extent now provided by the law under tort liability. Costs of this coverage shall not be deemed to provide payment for fines, penalties, or forfeitures arising out of criminal proceedings.
    4. Whenever an employee is absent from his/her assignment as a result of personal injury or for appearances before a judicial body of legal authority in connection with an assault case, he/she shall be eligible for sick days. There shall be no loss of wages or reduction in accumulated leave.
    5. Physical restraint may be used by an employee in an extraordinary case of breach of discipline to restrain, if necessary, a disruptive pupil to prevent injury to himself/herself or students, provided the force used is reasonable under the circumstances. The employee shall inform the principal or immediate supervisor at once of such action and shall make an accurate, written report within 24 hours.
    6. The District shall take appropriate action against the person (a student) committing the assault, according to the student discipline policy established by the District.