Policies and Procedures
- Code of Conduct
- Disciplinary Process
- Probation Policy
- Appeals and Communication
Code of Conduct
At Peaceful Worldschoolers, we are committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment where families can build community, learn together, and enjoy enriching experiences. To ensure the well-being and enjoyment of all participants, we expect all members—both children and adults—to adhere to the following Code of Conduct.
All participants (parents, guardians, and children) are expected to:
- Treat all people and places with kindness, respect, and dignity.
- Respect personal space, belongings, and boundaries.
- Use respectful language (no name-calling, yelling, profanity, etc).
- Dress appropriately (no clothing with inappropriate images or words, etc)
- Follow event or site-specific rules (e.g., park, museum, or organizational guidelines).
- Submit required forms on time (field trip waivers, Annual Review, Re-enrollment, etc.)
- Notify leadership promptly regarding absences, cancellations, or changes in participation.
- Demonstrate cooperation and clear communication with event leaders and hosts.
- Address conflicts peacefully and seek adult or coordinator support when needed.
- Supervise their own children and ensure their behavior aligns with these expectations.
Unacceptable behaviors include, but are not limited to:
- Disrupting group activities or events
- Refusing to follow instructions from coordinators, event hosts, tour guides, etc.
- Destroying, damaging, or misusing property belonging to a venue, host, or participant
- Physical aggression (hitting, pushing, kicking, biting, etc.)
- Verbal aggression (yelling, name-calling, insults, threats)
- Bullying, intimidation, or harassment (including online)
- Showing up to events without prior registration or confirmation
- Disregard for community agreements, field trip rules, or deadlines
- Use of offensive, discriminatory, or threatening language or gestures
These expectations apply to all Peaceful Worldschoolers events and field trips (both locally and internationally).
Disciplinary Process
We believe in restorative practices and giving individuals the opportunity to learn and grow. However, to protect the well-being of the group, we use a three-step accountability process:
- Step 1: Verbal Warning – The participant (child or adult) will receive a verbal reminder of the behavioral expectations and an explanation of the inappropriate behavior.
- Step 2: Written Warning – If the behavior continues, a written warning will be issued to the participant (and parent/guardian, if applicable). This written warning will be documented and acknowledged by the individual or family involved.
- Step 3: Removal for the Remainder of the School Year – Upon a third violation, the individual or family will not be permitted to attend any Peaceful Worldschoolers field trips or events for the remainder of the school year which ends on July 31st.
- Immediate Removal for Severe Misconduct – Some behaviors may be so serious or egregious that they jeopardize the safety, well-being, or integrity of the group. In such cases, Peaceful Worldschoolers reserves the right to skip steps one and two and proceed directly to removal from all field trips and events for the remainder of the school year. This includes, but is not limited to, violent behavior, harassment, threats, or serious property damage. This action is not taken lightly and is intended to protect the safety and harmony of the group.
Probation Policy
Peaceful Worldschoolers believes in personal growth and second chances. Families or individuals who have been removed from participation due to behavioral violations may be eligible to return at the beginning of the next school year (starting August 1st), but only under probationary status.
Terms of Probation
- Duration: The probation period will last for the entire school year (August 1st until July 31st)
- Zero-Tolerance: Any violation of the Code of Conduct during probation—regardless of severity—will result in immediate removal for the remainder of the school year. No verbal or written warnings will be issued while on probation.
- Supervised Participation: Families on probation may be asked to have a parent/guardian stay within arm’s reach of their child during events or field trips. Organizers may also request periodic check-ins during events.
Expectations During Probation
Probationary participants are expected to:
- Fully comply with all behavior guidelines and expectations.
- Demonstrate consistent respect, cooperation, and kindness.
- Take initiative in conflict resolution and responsible participation.
- Communicate openly and respectfully with organizers when issues arise.
Regaining Full Participation Status
At the end of the probationary year, Peaceful Worldschoolers leadership will review the participant’s conduct. If the individual/family has followed the expectations during the entire probationary period:
- They will be reinstated to full participant status beginning the following school year.
- A letter or email may be sent confirming the return to good standing.
Appeals and Communication
We value open and honest communication and are committed to resolving any concerns with compassion and fairness. If you believe a decision was made in error or would like to request a meeting, you have the right to request a review of the decision. To initiate an appeal:
- Submit a written request via email to info@paxacademy.org within 7 days of receiving the decision.
- The written request should include:
- A brief explanation of the incident
- Any relevant context or mitigating factors
- What the participant hopes to see as a resolution
- The Peaceful Worldschoolers leadership team will review the request and respond within 10 business days.
The outcome of the appeal may include:
- Upholding the original decision
- Modifying the decision (e.g., adjusting the duration of probation)
- Reinstating participation with additional conditions (e.g., parental shadowing or check-ins)
All decisions made after the appeal process are considered final.
Acknowledgement
By participating in any Peaceful Worldschoolers trips or events, you are acknowledging that you understand and are in agreement with our Behavioral Policy and Code of Conduct.
