On July 1, 2012, New York State put into effect the Dignity for All Students Act (Dignity Act). The purpose of this law is to provide a learning environment free of discrimination or harassment. School climate and culture can have a meaningful impact on academic learning and student success. The Dignity Act offers an opportunity to work to ensure that the school climate is one where students feel safe and supported physically, emotionally, and academically. This includes the school grounds/property, the school bus, and at a school sponsored event or field trip.

At the start of this new school year, and throughout, students will continually be learning about The Dignity Act in combination with Falcon Fundamentals, and other character education programs already in place. We are asking you, parents and families, to also take the time at home, to review the following list of Rights and Responsibilities as they relate to Falcon Fundamentals and The Dignity Act. Please talk with your child about how they are expected to behave and treat others, and how they can expect to be treated as well.

With every RIGHT comes a RESPONSIBILITY:

 v It is your right as a student to be respected by others (students and school employees) for who you are as an individual. You should not be harassed (picked-on, taunted, made fun of) or discriminated against for being who you are. This includes your actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender/gender identity or sex.

 Ø It is your responsibility to show respect to others (peers and adults), and to treat others in a polite manner. This includes using school appropriate language and voice levels while in the classrooms, hallways, restrooms, cafeteria, playground, and on the bus. It is your responsibility to take care of all materials and property including those that belong to you, the school, and others.

 v It is your right as a student to attend a school that is safe and orderly, and where all students are treated fairly. It is your right to be protected from intimidation, harassment, or discrimination. No one should make you feel unsafe at school.

 Ø It is your responsibility to follow the rules and expectations of the school, and the District Code of Conduct. You should contribute to a safe environment by keeping your hands, feet and objects to yourself, and by treating others fairly and with respect.

 Follow the Falcon Fundamentals: