High School Code of Character
2025-2026
Translation Statement
The Upper Darby School District is committed to inclusivity and ensuring that all members of our community have access to important information. The UDSD Student and Family Handbook is available in several languages to accommodate our diverse population. If you need to access this document in a language other than English, please click the accessibility button (stick-figure) found on the top right of this page and select your language of choice. Please contact Aaronda Q. Beauford, Director of Communications, at abeauford@upperdarbysd.org with any questions, comments, or suggestions related to the translation of this document.
El Distrito Escolar de Upper Darby está comprometido con la inclusión y con garantizar que todos los miembros de nuestra comunidad tengan acceso a información importante. El Manual para estudiantes y familias de UDSD está disponible en varios idiomas para adaptarse a nuestra población diversa. Si necesita acceder a este documento en un idioma que no sea inglés, haga clic en el botón de accesibilidad (figura de palo) que se encuentra en la parte superior derecha de esta página y seleccione el idioma de su elección. Comuníquese con Aaronda Q. Beauford, Directora de Comunicaciones, en abeauford@upperdarbysd.org si tiene alguna pregunta, comentario o sugerencia relacionada con la traducción de este documento.
আপার ডার্বি স্কুল ডিস্ট্রিক্ট অন্তর্ভুক্তি এবং নিশ্চিত করতে প্রতিশ্রুতিবদ্ধ যে আমাদের সম্প্রদায়ের সকল সদস্যের গুরুত্বপূর্ণ তথ্যের অ্যাক্সেস রয়েছে। ইউডিএসডি স্টুডেন্ট অ্যান্ড ফ্যামিলি হ্যান্ডবুক আমাদের বিভিন্ন জনসংখ্যার জন্য বিভিন্ন ভাষায় উপলব্ধ। আপনি যদি ইংরেজি ছাড়া অন্য কোনো ভাষায় এই নথিতে অ্যাক্সেস করতে চান, তাহলে অনুগ্রহ করে এই পৃষ্ঠার উপরের ডানদিকে পাওয়া অ্যাক্সেসিবিলিটি বোতামে (স্টিক-ফিগার) ক্লিক করুন এবং আপনার পছন্দের ভাষা নির্বাচন করুন। এই নথির অনুবাদ সম্পর্কিত যেকোন প্রশ্ন, মন্তব্য বা পরামর্শের জন্য অনুগ্রহ করে Aaronda Q. Beauford, যোগাযোগের পরিচালক, abeauford@upperdarbysd.org-এ যোগাযোগ করুন।
Āpāra ḍārbi skula ḍisṭrikṭa antarbhukti ēbaṁ niścita karatē pratiśrutibad'dha yē āmādēra sampradāẏēra sakala sadasyēra gurutbapūrṇa tathyēra ayāksēsa raẏēchē. I'uḍi'ēsaḍi sṭuḍēnṭa ayānḍa phyāmili hyānḍabuka āmādēra bibhinna janasaṅkhyāra jan'ya bibhinna bhāṣāẏa upalabdha. Āpani yadi inrēji chāṛā an'ya kōnō bhāṣāẏa ē'i nathitē ayāksēsa karatē cāna, tāhalē anugraha karē ē'i pr̥ṣṭhāra uparēra ḍānadikē pā'ōẏā ayāksēsibiliṭi bōtāmē (sṭika-phigāra) klika karuna ēbaṁ āpanāra pachandēra bhāṣā nirbācana karuna. Ē'i nathira anubāda samparkita yēkōna praśna, mantabya bā parāmarśēra jan'ya anugraha karē Aaronda Q. Beauford, yōgāyōgēra paricālaka, abeauford@upperdarbysd.Org-ē yōgāyōga karuna.
اپر ڈاربی اسکول ڈسٹرکٹ شمولیت اور اس بات کو یقینی بنانے کے لیے پرعزم ہے کہ ہماری کمیونٹی کے تمام اراکین کو اہم معلومات تک رسائی حاصل ہو۔ ہماری متنوع آبادی کو ایڈجسٹ کرنے کے لیے UDSD اسٹوڈنٹ اینڈ فیملی ہینڈ بک کئی زبانوں میں دستیاب ہے۔ اگر آپ کو انگریزی کے علاوہ کسی دوسری زبان میں اس دستاویز تک رسائی حاصل کرنے کی ضرورت ہے، تو براہ کرم اس صفحہ کے اوپری دائیں جانب موجود رسائی کے بٹن (اسٹک فگر) پر کلک کریں اور اپنی پسند کی زبان منتخب کریں۔ براہ کرم اس دستاویز کے ترجمے سے متعلق کسی بھی سوال، تبصرے، یا تجاویز کے لیے Aaronda Q. Beauford، ڈائریکٹر آف کمیونیکیشنز سے abeauford@upperdarbysd.org پر رابطہ کریں۔
Học khu Upper Darby cam kết mang tính toàn diện và đảm bảo rằng tất cả thành viên trong cộng đồng của chúng ta đều có quyền truy cập vào những thông tin quan trọng. Cẩm nang Gia đình và Sinh viên UDSD có sẵn bằng nhiều ngôn ngữ để phù hợp với thành phần dân cư đa dạng của chúng ta. Nếu bạn cần truy cập tài liệu này bằng ngôn ngữ khác tiếng Anh, vui lòng nhấp vào nút trợ năng (hình que) ở phía trên bên phải của trang này và chọn ngôn ngữ bạn chọn. Vui lòng liên hệ với Aaronda Q. Beauford, Giám đốc Truyền thông, theo địa chỉ abeauford@upperdarbysd.org nếu có bất kỳ câu hỏi, nhận xét hoặc đề xuất nào liên quan đến bản dịch tài liệu này.
تلتزم منطقة مدارس داربي العليا بالشمولية وضمان حصول جميع أفراد مجتمعنا على المعلومات المهمة. يتوفر دليل الطالب والأسرة في UDSD بعدة لغات لاستيعاب تنوع سكاننا. إذا كنت بحاجة إلى الوصول إلى هذا المستند بلغة غير الإنجليزية، فيرجى النقر فوق زر إمكانية الوصول (الشكل الملصق) الموجود في أعلى يمين هذه الصفحة واختيار اللغة التي تختارها. برجاء الاتصال بآروندا كيو بوفورد، مديرة الاتصالات، على abeauford@upperdarbysd.org لطرح أي أسئلة أو تعليقات أو اقتراحات تتعلق بترجمة هذه الوثيقة.
taltazim mintaqat madaris darbi aleulya bialshumuliat wadaman husul jamie 'afrad mujtamaeina ealaa almaelumat almuhimati. yatawafar dalil altaalib wal'usrat fi UDSD bieidat lughat liaistieab tanawue sukaanina. 'iidha kunt bihajat 'iilaa alwusul 'iilaa hadha almustanad bilughat ghayr al'iinjliziati, fayurjaa alnaqr fawq ziri 'iimkaniat alwusul (alshakl almulsaqa) almawjud fi 'aelaa yamin hadhih alsafhat waikhtiar allughat alati takhtaruha. biraja' alaitisal barwnda kiu bufurd, mudirat alaitisalati, ealaa abeauford@upperdarbysd.org litarh 'ayi 'asyilat 'aw taeliqat 'aw aiqtirahat tataealaq bitarjamat hadhih alwathiqati.
Accessibility Statement
The goal of the Upper Darby School District is to ensure that this document is usable to the widest possible audience, regardless of ability. Smore helps the District provide this The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant document to our community. Smore is guided by the WCAG 2.1 level AA success and conformance criteria and readability considerations such as font type, size, color, contrast, and considerations for a screen reader, motion detector, and voice-to-text software. Visitors to this document are able to access a customizable bar that lets users adjust font size and enable high contrast mode and use a screen reader, enhancing the visual accessibility of this document. Please contact Aaronda Q. Beauford, Director of Communications, at abeauford@upperdarbysd.org with any questions, comments, or suggestions related to accessibility of this document.
Document Update/Revision Disclaimer Statement
This document is subject to periodic revisions and updates. We strive to ensure that all information is accurate and up-to-date; however, changes may occur over time and without prior notice. Please consult the latest version of this document for the most current information.
Document Accuracy and Quality Statement
While we strive to ensure the accuracy and quality of our content, there may be occasional errors or inaccuracies. If you come across any mistakes or issues, please contact us to let us know: Aaronda Q. Beauford, Director of Communications, abeauford@upperdarbysd.org. We appreciate your feedback and will do our best to address any concerns promptly. Thank you for your understanding and assistance in improving our work.
Philosophy
The Upper Darby High School Code of Character embodies the basic principles of responsibility, respect, and safe student behavior. We provide a restorative approach to students’ concerning behaviors, and the importance of stakeholder relationships is integral to this approach. Building on our commitment to equity and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), Upper Darby School District continues to work to embed Restorative Practices and Trauma-Informed Care as part of our school’s culture and climate across all settings.
Upper Darby School District believes that behaviors develop over time and that school responses to behaviors of concern should be developmentally appropriate, considering each child’s needs. A continuum of instructional strategies and suggested behavioral responses support teaching and learning, foster positive behaviors, and reflect a restorative philosophy. A restorative approach to discipline affords opportunities for students to learn from their mistakes, correct wrongdoings that result from their behavior, and restore relationships that are disrupted by their actions.
We believe relationships are essential to student academic success and social, emotional, and behavioral development. In all practices, our responses to student behaviors will support the ongoing development of the child, the school community, and the relationship between both.
Responsibilities of Students
Upper Darby School District STUDENTS have the responsibility to:
Contribute to maintaining a safe, supportive and orderly school environment that is conducive to learning and to show respect and dignity to other persons and to property
Practice respectful, responsible, and safe behaviors
Arrive on time, prepared to actively participate in their learning
Work to their potential both inside and outside of the classroom
Respect school property and ensure that safe conditions continue in our school.
Know the rules and expectations for their behavior
Ask questions when they do not understand
Seek help in solving problems that might lead to discipline
Work to develop strategies to control anger/frustration
Maintain behavior that is free from all forms of bullying, harassment, and discrimination
Empower students to utilize elements of restorative justice to resolve conflict
Responsibilities of Staff
Upper Darby School District EDUCATORS have the responsibility to:
Establish and maintain a climate of mutual respect and dignity for all students
Establish an environment that is culturally sensitive
Model and teach positive expected behaviors across all areas and disciplines
Know school expectations, policies, and rules, and enforce them in a fair and consistent manner
Effectively communicate with students, families, administration about academic and behavioral concerns
Be aware and informed of your own professional responsibilities
Responsibilities of Families
Upper Darby School District FAMILIES have the suggested responsibility to:
Recognize that the education of their child(ren) is a joint responsibility of families and the school community
Build positive relationships with school staff and communicate with teachers
Support your student(s) timeliness and attendance
Support student's adherence to all safety precautions, rules, and policies
Share concerns as needed
Read building level and school district communications
Participate!- attend school informational meetings, join our Home and School Association, attend family conferences, and events
Know school rules and help their children understand them
Help their children deal effectively with peer pressure
Rights of Students and Families
The Upper Darby School District has the shared belief that families and students are an integral part of the disciplinary process. All conduct matters are in compliance with local, state and federal laws. The Upper Darby School District wants all stakeholders to be aware that they have the right to appeal any disciplinary action which can be initiated through contacting school and district-level administrators.
Resident students have the right to a free, appropriate public education until age 21 or graduation from Upper Darby School District, whichever occurs first.
In cases where discipline is being considered, each student will have a fair chance to have their side of a controversy considered.
The Upper Darby School District does not discriminate against any student on the basis of race, creed, handicap, nationality, or sex. If there are any concerns regarding such matters, they should be referred to the student’s teacher or guidance counselor. If the concern cannot be resolved at this level, the building administration can be asked to participate in resolving the problem. In line with school district organization, the Director of Secondary Education can be involved in any matter not resolved at the building level.
This Code of Character has been prepared in accordance with local, state and federal laws, which define student rights and specify the need for a comprehensive discipline policy. Special Education students are subject to all parts of the Code of Character. The District complies with all aspects of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Pennsylvania Department of Education Special Education Regulations.
Responsibilities of the Student (Board Policy 235):
Attendant upon the rights established for each student are certain responsibilities, which include regular attendance; conscientious effort in classroom work and homework; conformance to Board policies and school rules and regulations; respect for the rights of teachers, students, administrators and all others who are involved in the educational process; and expression of ideas and opinions in a respectful manner.[4][7][8][9][10][11]
It shall be the responsibility of the student to:[7]
Be aware of all policies, rules and regulations and Code of Student Conduct for student behavior and conduct him/herself accordingly. Each student shall assume that, until a rule is waived, altered or repealed in writing, it is in effect.[10
Volunteer information in matters relating to the health, safety and welfare of the school community and the protection of school property.
Dress and groom to meet standards of safety and health, and not to cause substantial disruption to the educational processes.[12]
Assist the school staff in operating a safe school.
Comply with federal, state and local laws.
Exercise proper care when using district facilities, school supplies and equipment.[13]
Attend school daily and be on time to all classes and other school functions.[9]
Make up work when absent from school.
Pursue and attempt to satisfactorily complete the courses of study prescribed by local school authorities.
Report accurately in student media.[11]
Not use obscene language in student media or on school property.[11]
Behavior(s) of concern of this policy may result in disciplinary action, consistent with the Code of Student Character and Board policy.[10][14]
Description of Behaviors of Concern and Responses by School
TIER 1 BEHAVIORS
Tier 1 Behaviors of Concern are behaviors that impede orderly classroom procedures, which include but are not limited to the examples below. Tier 1 behaviors of concern should be addressed by the teacher. If a tier 1 behavior persists, teachers will refer the student to administration and the grade-level team.
Late to School
Students are considered late to school if they fail to arrive by the start time of their first scheduled class. Block 1 begins at 9:45 AM.
Late to Class
Students are considered late to class if they arrive at class after the scheduled time. Students who are over ten minutes late to class are considered cutting class.
Cutting Class
Class cutting is the act of deliberately skipping a scheduled class without a valid excuse. Students who are over ten minutes late to their scheduled class are considered cutting class. Students who fail to return from using a hall pass are considered cutting class.
Disruptive Classroom Behavior
Behavior that impedes the learning of others or interferes with teaching while in the classroom.
Disruptive Hallway Behavior
Behavior that interferes with transition or creates an unsafe environment for those in the hallway.
Dress Code
Students are expected to follow Board Policy #221.
Inappropriate Language
Inappropriate language includes the use of profane, obscene, or offensive language in the hallway or classroom.
Insubordination
Insubordination is a deliberate refusal to follow directions or comply with reasonable requests by a teacher or staff member. This behavior includes ignoring instructions, talking back, or refusing to participate in assigned tasks.
Not Following Procedures
Catchall term for student behavior that ignores basic rules and procedures while in the classroom. Not Following Procedures includes:
Ignoring SmartPass procedures
Signing in late to class
Leaving class before the bell (under five minutes)
Eating in the hallway
Cell Phone Violation
The use of cell phones or personal electronic devices is prohibited during instructional time. While in class cell phones should remain away in a student’s backpack, pocket, purse, locker, or classroom pocket chart.
Violation of Acceptable Use Policy
See Board Policy #237. Students are to use their district issued device for instructional purposes only.
Possession of an Electronic Device
Students are not permitted to use electronic devices (including watches, tablets, or gaming devices) during instructional time.
INTERVENTIONS FOR TIER 1 INFRACTIONS
- Parent contact
- Parent/Teacher meeting
- Teacher detention
- Restorative conference
- Restorative action including apology, student reflection, or other restorative work.
- Reduction in Royal Points
- Administrative detention
- Restricted hall pass
- Behavior contracts
- Referral to Youth Court
- Principal’s conference
TIER 2 BEHAVIORS
Tier 2 Behaviors of Concern are chronic Tier 1 behaviors or a behavior of a serious nature, which tends to disrupt the school’s learning environment. Tier 2 Behaviors will be addressed by teachers with advisement from the administration and grade-level team.
Academic Dishonesty
Cheating is an act of dishonesty or to unfairly gain advantage on an academic work. This includes using unauthorized materials, copying another student’s academic work, allowing another student to copy your work, and getting answers or giving answers to others.
Plagiarism is the act of using someone else’s words, ideas, or work without proper acknowledgement. Plagiarism includes presenting another person’s writing as your own, copying another person’s work without proper citation, submitting work that was completed by another student.
Continuation of Unmodified Tier 1 Behavior
Multiple tier 1 infractions of a similar nature.
Cursing/Abusive Language Towards Students and Staff
Any profane or obscene word directed towards a teacher, staff member, or student. Any hand gesture that is perceived offensive by the staff member or student.
Cutting or Removal from Detention
Students are obligated to attend teacher and administrative detention. Students are given one opportunity to reschedule.
Defiance
Intentionally refusing to follow school rules or disregarding the authority of a teacher or staff member in a confrontational and disruptive manner.
Fire Drill and Lockdown Procedures
Students are to follow fire drill and lockdown procedures. During fire drills students should use their designated exit and report to their designated zone for attendance. When entering a safety posture, students should remain quiet in their rooms.
Leaving School Grounds
Students are not allowed to leave campus and then return to campus later in the day. This excludes students with modified schedules. Students are expected to remain on campus during lunch.
Tampering with Instructional Materials
Damaging or mishandling instructional materials including books, textbooks, or technology designated for instructional purposes.
Tampering with Fire Safety Materials
Damaging or mishandling fire extinguishers or AED machines.
Truancy/Habitual Truancy
A student who accrued 3 unexcused absences during the school year is considered truant. Students who accrue 6 or more unexcused absences are considered habitually truant.
INTERVENTIONS FOR TIER 2 INFRACTIONS
- Parent contact
- Parent/teacher meeting
- Administrative detention
- Disciplinary conference
- Restorative conference
- Royal point reduction
- Center team consult
- Social work referral
- Referral to the Student Assistance Program
- Student Attendance Improvement Plan
- Behavior contracts
- Youth Court
- Out-of-school suspension
TIER 3 BEHAVIORS
Tier 3 Behaviors of Concern are behaviors that may pose a threat to the health, safety, or welfare of a member of the school community.
Bringing Unauthorized Visitors to Campus
All visitors must enter through the main entrance and provide identification to security. This includes opening and propping doors for unauthorized visitors. Unauthorized visitors could mean food delivery services, students from other schools, any non-student, school-aged or otherwise, graduates of UDHS, or family members.
Causing a False Alarm
Pulling a fire alarm or any actions that could cause a lock-in, lock-out, or lockdown.
Continuation of Unmodified Tier 2 Infractions
Multiple tier 2 infractions of a similar nature.
Creating a Health and Safety Hazard
Creating unsafe conditions for students and staff on school grounds. This includes evading the Evolv machine or purposely ignoring entry procedures and opening or propping doors for Upper Darby students.
Drug Paraphernalia Possession
Includes but is not limited to: bong, bowl, scales (digital or otherwise), rolling papers, packaging materials, mylar bags.
Electronics During State Testing
Students are not allowed to use or possess electronic devices during state testing.
Extortion
Using intimidation on threats to obtain money, information, or anything else of value from another person.
Forgery
Falsely making, altering, or using a document with a false signature with the intent to deceive.
Gambling
Participating in games of chance or betting activities for money or something of value while on school property or during school events.
Gang Activity
Including wearing of colors, sports paraphernalia, or any article of clothing that contains a symbol of a gang or the intent to show allegiance to a Gang.
A gang shall mean any ongoing organization or group of people which has an identifiable name or identifying symbol whose members, individually or collectively engage in or have engaged in a pattern of activity that endangers or disrupts the safety of the school or members of the school community.
Instigating a Fight
Provoking, encouraging, or inciting others to engage in physical conflict, even if the person instigating does not directly participate in the fight.
Minor Altercation
A brief low-level verbal or physical conflict between students that does not result in harm or a significant disruption. Minor altercations include verbal arguments and brief physical conflict (pushing and shoving). This includes disagreements that are broken up by safety officers or administration.
Motor Vehicle Violation
Students are prohibited from parking on campus during school hours. Students who park on campus run the risk of their vehicle being towed.
Possession/Sale of Stolen Goods
Possession or sale of items identified as stolen.
Possession/Setting off an Incendiary Device
This includes lighters, matches, fireworks, and any other explosive device.
Trespassing
Remaining on school grounds without permission or legal right, especially after being told not to be there. This includes students who are suspended, individuals who enter the building without going through the Evolv machines, and being on school grounds or district property without approval.
Violation of Bus Procedures
When a student interferes with the safe operation of a school bus. Violations include:
Entering or riding a school bus which you are not assigned.
Disruptive behavior that impedes bus travel.
Unsafe behavior that could lead to physical harm to students and staff.
Violations of bus procedures as outlined in Board Policy #810.
Any violation of the Pennsylvania Crimes Code
Any violation of the Pennsylvania Crimes Code constitutes a Tier 3 violation. Acts that pose a direct threat to the health, safety, or welfare of others in the school include but are not limited to the following examples:
Arson and Related Crimes
Deliberately setting fire to property.
Assault on Staff
- Simple Assault: Attempts to cause intentionally knowingly or recklessly bodily injury to a staff member.
- Aggravated Assault on Staff: Attempts to cause serious intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly serious bodily injury with a weapon to a staff member
Assault on Student
- Simple Assault on Student: Attempts to cause intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly bodily injury to another student.
- Aggravated Assault on Student: Attempts to cause serious intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly serious bodily injury to another student.
Bomb Threats
A verbal or written threat to detonate an explosive or incendiary device to incite fear, disrupt normal activities, to cause damage to property, serious bodily harm or death regardless of the existence of the device
Burglary (stealing, not from a person)
Illegal entry into a building with intent to commit theft.
Bullying
Bullying or discriminatory harassment based on but not limited to any of the following: Race/Color/National Origin, Sex, Disability, Sexual Orientation, Religion, Title IX. See Board Policy 249- AR- 0.
Disorderly Conduct
Intent to cause public inconvenience, annoyance or alarm by engaging in violent or tumultuous behavior, making unreasonable noise, using obscene language, or creating a hazardous or physically offensive condition by an act that serves no legitimate purpose.
Fighting
When two or more people engage in a use of force or physical violence that requires intervention from school staff.
Institutional Vandalism
To knowingly vandalize, deface, or damage school property.
Kidnapping or Unlawful Restraint
The abduction of another person; to restrain another unlawfully in circumstances that risk serious bodily injury.
Possession of a Weapon
Students are prohibited from possessing or bringing weapons or replicas of weapons onto school property. A weapon includes but is not limited to knife, cutting instrument, cutting tool, nunchaku, firearm, shotgun, rifle, replica of weapon, and any other tool, instrument, or implement capable of inflicting serious bodily injury. See Board Policy #218.
Reckless Endangerment
Behavior that places or may place another person in danger of death or serious bodily injury.
Rioting
Organizing, promoting, encouraging or participating in a riot; violent disturbance of the peace.
Robbery
Taking property unlawfully from a person or place by force or threat of force.
Sale/Distribution of a Controlled Substance
A student shall not knowingly sell, distribute, possess, use, transmit, or be under the influence of any narcotic drug, a hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, alcoholic beverage, intoxicant, synthetic or distilled oil, or any other kind of controlled substance. This rule pertains to actions on school grounds, at any school activity, function or event, or any vehicle designated or used by the school for student transport, including public transportation or while traveling to or from school.
Sexual Harassment
Unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature determined by a reasonable person to be so severe, pervasive and objectively offensive that it effectively denies a person equal access to a district education program or activity.
Sexual Misconduct
Including but not limited to: rape, involuntary sexual deviate intercourse, statutory sexual assault, sexual assault, aggravated indecent assault, indecent assault, indecent exposure, open lewdness, obscene and other sexual materials and performance.
Stalking
A pattern of repeated and unwanted attention, harassment, contact or any other course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to feel fear.
Terroristic Threats
Any written or verbal threat to commit an act of violence that would endanger others with a reckless disregard for the harm it would cause.
Threatening a School Official or Student
An expression of intent to harm someone that may be spoken, written, gestured, or communicated in some other form, such as via text message or email. Threats may be explicit or implied, directed at the intended target or communicated to a third party. Behavior that suggests a threat such as weapon carrying, fighting, or menacing actions is also considered threatening behavior.
Theft and Related Offenses
To withhold property of another permanently or for an extended period of time. To steal from a member of the school staff or another student.
Possession, Use, or Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance
A student shall not possess, use, or be under the influence of any controlled substance as defined by the PA crimes code.
Possession, Sale, Use or Under the Influence of Alcohol
A student shall not possess, sell, or be under the influence of alcohol while on campus.
Possession, Sale, Use of Vaping Materials
A student shall not possess, sell or use a vape, vape products or e-cigarette device. See Board Policy 222-AR-0.
INTERVENTIONS FOR TIER 3 INFRACTIONS
- Parent contact
- Parent/teacher meeting
- Administrative detention
- Disciplinary conference
- Restorative conference
- Royal point reduction
- Center team consult
- Social work referral
- Referral to the Student Assistance Program
- Student Attendance Improvement Plan
- Behavior contracts
- Youth Court
The Principal in consultation with the Superintendent will contact the parent, and do one or more of the following:
- Suspension from extracurricular activities
- Out-of-school suspension
- Expulsion
- Referral to AEDY
- Contact law enforcement authorities
Description of Administrative Action
Restorative Conference
Students who are referred to administration may have to meet with their grade-level administrator for a restorative conference. During the restorative conference, the student will be asked to reflect on their behavior and develop a plan for corrective action. Administrators may require students to write an apology, complete a behavior reflection, or sign a behavior contract as part of the conference.
Youth Court
Students may be assigned Youth Court for Tier 1 and 2 offenses. During Youth Court, students will be provided an opportunity to explain their actions. Students who serve on Youth Court will then provide the student with recommendations on how to make amends for their infraction. Participation in Youth Court requires parent permission.
Administrative Detention
Administrative detentions are served during FLEX, before school, or after school. Students who are assigned an administrative detention will be notified twenty-four hours before their detention. Administrative detentions will be served in the student’s grade-level center or designated classroom. Students are required to turn in their cell phone when serving a detention. Students who cut administrative detention can be assigned an alternative disciplinary consequence.
Out-of-School Suspension
The principal or person in charge of the school may suspend any student for disobedience or misconduct for a period of one (1) to ten (10) consecutive school days and shall immediately notify the parent/guardian and the Superintendent in writing when the student is suspended. Students are not permitted on school grounds or attend any school activities during the term of suspension. It is the responsibility of the student to complete and submit work during their suspension.
Expulsion
Expulsion is exclusion from school by the Board for a period exceeding ten (10) consecutive school days. The Board may permanently expel from the district rolls any student whose misconduct or disobedience warrants this sanction. No student shall be expelled without an opportunity for a formal hearing before the Board, a duly authorized committee of the Board, or a qualified hearing examiner appointed by the Board, and upon action taken by the Board after the hearing. Students who are expelled from school are now allowed on district property for the duration of their expulsion from school.
Royal Points Program
Royal Points Students start the year with 100 Royal Points. Royal Points are a measure of student behavior. Points are deducted due to violations of the Upper Darby High School Code of Character. If a student’s Royal Points drop below 85, they are ineligible to participate in school-based activities, both curricular and extracurricular. All students have the opportunity to recoup Royal Points through Royal Recovery. Students are able to view their Royal Points through the Home Access Center.
Event participation includes, but is not limited to the following:
Spectator at athletic event and/or participant based on Athletic Eligibility
Vocal and instrumental music program rehearsals and performances
Play and musical rehearsals and performances (participant/spectator)
Student Government
Media center and tech crew
Club meetings or other activities
Activity Field Trips
Homecoming (participant/spectator)
Powder Puff (participant/spectator)
UD’s Got Talent (participant/spectator)
Proms and Class dances
Senior Appreciation Day
Top Royal (participant/spectator)
PBIS Movie Nights (participant/spectator)
Any other school-related function in which a ticket is needed to enter (participant and spectator)
Point Reductions:
Royal Point Reduction: 1
Disciplinary Conference: 2
Administrative Detention: 3
Suspension: 5
Students who pay for an extracurricular activity (dance ticket, field trip payment, etc.) are not guaranteed a refund if they are later deemed ineligible. Athletic team practices, games, and any other organized team activities will fall under the athletic program regulations sanctioned by the PIAA, but also will be held to the same standards required by the Royal Points Program.
Royal Recovery Programs
Royal Recovery Options
Daily Royal Recovery
Any student looking to recoup Royal Points has the opportunity to do so by completing a Royal Recovery Sheet. Students can earn points through positive classroom behavior and attendance. For each assigned class, students should have their teacher sign as evidence of positive student behavior. Upon completion of five successful school days, the student will earn back five points.
School Service
Students also have the option to participate in a School Service Activity in order to regain points in the Royal Points Program. Voluntary school service, that is approved by school personnel, can earn up to 5 Royal Points.
Royal Recovery Workshops
Periodically throughout the year, grade-level centers will offer Royal Recovery Workshops. Students must attend all three days of the workshop, and they must engage in the restorative lesson and activities. Upon completion of a workshop, students will earn 10 Royal Points.
Student Attendance Improvement Plan
The purpose of a Student Attendance Improvement Plan (SAIP) is to assist a student in improving their attendance. A SAIC is typically created with a student’s support system—including parents/guardians, school counselors, IEP case managers, and building administrators. A SAIP is recommended for students who are habitually absent from school. Additionally, a SAIP may be recommended for students who are chronically late to school or students who are frequently cutting class.
Searches
School authorities may search the person, the possessions of, and/or the locker assigned to any student. School authorities may take temporary possession of and safeguard any materials, which are considered to be evidence of the commission of an offense or of other improper activity.
In general, searches should be based on reasonable suspicion that material will be produced, which evidences the violation of the Upper Darby High School Code of Character and/or a violation of applicable law, statute, or regulation. Prior to an individual locker search, the student shall be notified and be given an opportunity to be present. However, when school authorities have a reasonable suspicion that a locker contains materials that pose a threat to the health, welfare, or safety of the school population, student lockers may be searched without prior warning.
Custody and control of student lockers are shared jointly by the Upper Darby High School and the assigned student(s). Although students have a legitimate expectation of privacy in a school locker, the expectation should be minimal. Under certain circumstances, the interests of the Upper Darby School District to search a locker or lockers will clearly outweigh the intrusion into the privacy rights of students.
Deterring drug possession and use is a compelling concern for school officials. Appropriate searches are permissible to both discover the evidence of drugs within the school and to warn students that bringing drugs to school will not be tolerated. Canine sniff searches will be used to minimize the intrusiveness of any mass or school-wide search.
Students who attend dances at Upper Darby High School and prom(s) off-site will be searched at the door as part of our standard procedure. Students who are found in possession of materials that violate the Upper Darby Code of Character will be subject to school discipline.
Theft
Students who believe that an item was stolen from them should report to their grade-level center. While in the center, they will be asked to complete a theft report. The grade-level administrator will then conduct an investigation into the student’s claims.
Physical Restraint
Physical restraint may be used for, but not limited to, the following reasons: defense of self or others, removal of students from the educational setting, or detaining a student while awaiting the arrival of school administrators or police.
Staff members may use reasonable force as is necessary to protect themselves from attack, protect another person or property, quell a disturbance threatening physical injury to others, and/or obtain possession of dangerous objects.
Positive Classroom Management Strategies
Behaviors of concern will occur in the classroom. All teachers are encouraged to employ positive classroom management strategies within the classroom, in addition to making notes of student behavior.
Seat Change
Proximity
Alternative Assignment Choice
Non-verbal Prompt
Verbal Redirection
Restate Expectations
Positive Reinforcement
Points of Emphasis
Academic Integrity
Upper Darby High School is dedicated to fostering opportunity, unity, and excellence in our classrooms. Teachers maintain high expectations for all students, and we aim to create an academic environment that promotes scholarship and curiosity. Academic integrity means completing your work honestly and ethically. Students should take responsibility for their work and own the work they submit. Cheating and plagiarism are not tolerated. The use of generative AI falls under the definition of plagiarism.
Violation — Tier 1
Academic dishonesty is considered a tier 1 infraction for homework, classwork, quizzes, and other assignments with limited point value.
1st Offense
The incident is managed by the teacher.
Parent is notified
“0” is issued for the assignment
Student provided with Academic Integrity Review
2nd Offense:
All actions for the first offense in addition to:
Referral submitted to administration.
Violation — Tier 2
Academic dishonesty is considered a tier 2 infraction for tests, major papers or projects, finals, and other significant assignments.
The incident is managed by the teacher and administration:
Parent is notified
“0” is issued for the assignment
Referral submitted for administrative action.
All actions for the first offense in addition to:
Parental conference
Removal from school sponsored activities with academic requirements (i.e. Honor Societies).
Late to School
Number of Lates & Intervention
5 Lates — Loss of two Royal Points; parent notification
10 Lates — Loss of two Royal Points; official written notice; restorative lesson
15 Lates — Loss of two Royal Points; official written notice; administrative action
20 Lates — Assigned one or more of the following interventions:
Administrative action
SAIP
Loss of Royal Points
Suspension from school activities
Class Cutting Matrix
Class attendance is vital to a student’s success. It is impossible to learn if students are not present and engaged in their learning. Class cutting is unacceptable and will remain a point of emphasis for the 25-26 school year.
Cutting class behaviors include the following:
Students are considered cutting class if they are present in school but do not attend class.
Students who are ten or more minutes late to class with no legitimate excuse.
Students who misuse a hall pass, leaving class for over ten minutes with no legitimate excuse.
Students who are found walking in the hallway during instructional time with no pass.
Students who cut class will be assigned an administrative action on a weekly basis. Repeated violations will result in the following consequences:
Loss of Royal Points
Administrative action including detention time in the SAR
Parental conference
Cutting contract
SAIP
Referral to Tier 2
If cutting behavior persists, students are subject to further school disciplinary action including but not limited to:
Out-of-school suspension
Removal from extracurricular activities
Vaping
Board policy prohibits students from possessing, using or selling tobacco, nicotine and nicotine delivery products at any time in a school building; on any property, buses, vans and vehicles owned, leased or controlled by the school district; and at school-sponsored activities that are held off school property.
Tobacco is defined as a lighted or unlighted cigarette, cigar, cigarillo, little cigar, pipe or other smoking product or material and smokeless tobacco in any form including chewing tobacco, snuff, dip or dissolvable tobacco pieces.
Nicotine is defined as a product that contains or consists of nicotine in a form that can be ingested by chewing, smoking, inhaling or through other means.
Nicotine delivery product is defined as a product or device used, intended for use or designed for the purpose of ingesting nicotine or another substance. This definition includes, but is not limited to, any device or associated product used for what is commonly referred to as vaping or juuling.
Prohibition of the possession, use and sale of tobacco, nicotine or nicotine delivery products by students applies during normal school hours, as well as during school activities at other hours that take place in buildings and on buses and property owned, leased or controlled by the school district. This policy will apply at all times a student is subject to the supervision of designated school staff, such as any school function, extracurricular event, field trip, work-study program and other school-related activities.
District schools will maintain a tobacco-free and nicotine-free environment by taking positive action through educating students in the classroom on the health and safety hazards of using tobacco, nicotine and nicotine delivery products; counseling individual students when necessary and appropriate; and communicating Board policy and administrative regulations with staff, students, parents/guardians and the community.
Below is a summary of the consequences for violating Board Policy #222.
Tier of Offense
Tier 3
Description: Possession of vaping device or vaping paraphernalia
Consequence(s):
Item confiscated by administration.
Required to complete Vaping Cessation course via Schoology while in SAR.
Failure to complete the Vaping Cessation course will lead to 1 day out-of-school suspension.
SAP referral
Tier 3
Description: Repeated Tier 3 offenses or possession of multiple devices for vaping
Consequence(s):
Items confiscated by administration.
Parents notified and student sent home for the remainder of the school day.
- Suspended out of school for two days.
SAP referral
Tier 3
Description: Use of vaping devices on school grounds or distribution of vaping devices.
Consequence(s):
Items confiscated by administration.
- Parents notified and student sent home for the remainder of the school day.
- Suspended out-of-school for three days.
SAP referral
Tier 3
Description: Use of vaping devices in an academic setting (classroom) or repeated use/possession violations.
Consequence(s):
Items confiscated by administration.
Suspended out-of-school for five days.
SAP referral
Cell Phone Use During Instructional Time
According to Board Policy #237, the use of cell phones and other personal communication devices is prohibited during instructional time. While in class cell phones should remain away in a student’s backpack, pocket, purse, locker, or classroom pocket chart.
Cell phone violations are considered a Tier 1 behavior of concern. Below includes a description as to how classroom teachers and administration will handle cell phone violations.
Level of Intervention & Teacher and Administrative Action
Tier 1
Teacher and Administrative Action:
- Teachers will notify all students at the beginning of class that cell phones should be stowed away in their backpack, pocket, purse, locker, or classroom pocket chart.
Tier 2
Teacher and Administrative Action:
- Teachers will verbally redirect students who fail to stow their cell phone in the designated area.
- Teachers will verbally redirect students who use their cell phone in class during instructional time.
- Teachers will provide a second verbal redirection if necessary.
Tier 3
If students fail to respond to the second redirection, the teacher will:
Notify the parent of the offense
Complete a referral
Administrative action for repeated cell phone violations includes:
Loss of Royal Points
Restorative conference
Administrative detention
Parental conference
Tier 2 Program
As part of our PBIS framework, UDSD provides interventions for students who do not respond positively to school-wide expectations and procedures. Students demonstrating the need for additional behavioral support may be referred to the Tier 2 team.
PBIS Flowchart
Description of the PBIS Flowcart
STEP 1 — The teacher observes the problem behavior.
STEP 2 — The teacher considers: Is the behavior considered minor or major?
If the behavior is MINOR:
- MINOR = Classroom Managed
- Tier 1 infractions are managed by classroom teacher.
Intervention #1 for MINOR behaviors:
-
Non-verbal prompt
-
Verbal redirection
-
Proximity
-
Restate expectation
-
Parent contact
-
Teacher conference
-
Teacher detention
-
Seat change
Intervention #2 and #3 for MINOR behaviors:
-
Redirect student using strategies listed above
-
Required to contact parent
Note: After the third intervention, teachers will submit a behavior referral via eSchool.
If the behavior is MAJOR:
- MAJOR = Office Managed
- Tier 2 and 3 infractions are managed by administration.
- Teacher submits a referral to eSchool, or administrator creates incident in eSchool
The administrator will:
-
Assign administrative action
-
Contact parent
-
Provide teacher/staff with feedback
Display your Royal Pride!
➤ Be Safe
➤ Be Respectful
➤ Be Responsible
PBIS Matrix
Description of the PBIS Matrix
Setting and Expectations — Hallways
Be Respectful
-
Use appropriate language and volume
-
Pay attention to your surroundings
-
Respond when asked by any staff member
Be Responsible
-
Have hall pass visible
-
Follow staff requests
-
Walk with a purpose
-
Maintain cleanliness
Be Safe
-
Identify yourself
-
Follow up/down stairs
-
Stay to the right
-
Use your own locker
-
Keep objects, hands, and feet to yourself
Setting and Expectations — Classrooms
Be Respectful
-
Listen
-
Be tolerant
-
Use appropriate language and volume
-
Address issues at the appropriate time
Be Responsible
-
Be on time
-
Identify yourself
-
Complete your work
-
Keep it clean
-
Focus on learning
Be Safe
-
Stay seated
-
Keep objects, hands, and feet to yourself
-
Follow hall pass procedure
Setting and Expectations — Bathrooms
Be Respectful
-
Honor privacy (including no cameras)
-
Use appropriate language and volume
-
Be mindful others may be waiting to access the restrooms in your class/space
Be Responsible
-
Be aware of your belongings
-
Go, Flush, Wash, Leave
-
Tell an adult when there is an issue
-
Place trash in the receptacle
Be Safe
-
Respect property and spaces
-
Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself
Central Administration Pupil Service Contact Information
Edward Marshaleck
Assistant Superintendent of Student Services
(610) 622-7000, ext. 3213
Dr. Brian Ursone
Director of Pupil Services
(610) 789-7200, ext. 3216
Kelley Simone
Director of Secondary Education
(610) 789-7200, ext. 3295