Student Rights

The Constitution and the laws of the United States and the Commonwealth of Virginia give students many legal rights and liberties. School Board policies and regulations provide students many privileges as well, according to their ages and maturity levels. Students may exercise these rights and privileges as long as they do not interfere with the rights of others or the schools' ability to provide a safe learning environment.

FCPS students have the right to…

• Attend a safe, welcoming school and belong to a community that values and promotes learning.
• Expect courtesy, fairness, and respect from school staff members and other students.
• Expect that all property will be safe and not damaged.
• Express opinions freely through speech, assembly, petition, and other lawful means.
• Advocate for change in any law, policy, or regulation.
• Present a complaint to teachers, counselors, or the school principal if the actions, inactions, or decisions made by school official do not seem to be in the best interest of the student, and to expect a response.
• Present a complaint to the regional assistant superintendent if not satisfied with the resolution of a complaint presented to the principal, and to expect a response.

Student Responsibilities

FCPS expects students to balance expression of their rights with observance of their responsibilities. Even the youngest children can demonstrate accountability by treating others fairly and following the rules.

In FCPS, students have the responsibility to:

• Attend school regularly and on time, and follow assigned schedules.
• Follow rules, procedures, and processes.
• Dress appropriately for a K-12 educational environment.
• Respect the authority of staff members.
• Respect the rights and property of others.
• Respect others' beliefs and differences.
• Refrain from using words, images, or gestures that are obscene, violent, disruptive, or disrespectful.
• Resolve disputes peacefully.
• Refrain from bullying or hurting other students.
• Tell school staff members about any behavior that may cause danger to anyone.

The Rules of Student Conduct apply to students at all times

• In school buildings
• On school grounds
• On buses and other school vehicles
• At bus stops
• Behavior which affects students going to or returning from school
• At school and school-related activities both on and off school property
• Off school property and outside school hours if the conduct is detrimental to the school, adversely affects school discipline, or results in a criminal charge or conviction