Standards of Behavior

● As adults working in a boarding and day school community, we understand the trust placed in us by our students, their families, Emma Willard School, and the State of New

York to promote and ensure the health, safety, well-being, and development of each student.

● We promote a culture of trust and respect through behaviors and actions that reflect an appreciation for learning, civility, community, and difference.

● We accept the responsibility to establish and maintain healthy boundaries with students, to set limits, and to refrain from taking advantage of, or otherwise exploiting, this imbalance of power.

Standards of Behavior

Examples of behavioral standards regarding interactions with students and colleagues include, but are not limited to, the following:

● Act as a role model to students and colleagues, being especially conscious of your actions and words at times and in places where students can observe you.

● Maintain only professional relationships with students, acting transparently and unambiguously.

● Act and communicate in a professional, respectful, and courteous manner with all Emma community members.

● Take responsibility to set and maintain clear and consistent boundaries with all Emma community members. Boundaries need to always be appropriate for the circumstances.

● Promote best outcomes for girls by acting always in accordance with the mission, values, and expectations of the school and in ways that reflect well on the school.

● Understand the imbalance of power that exists as a result of authority, whether that be between adults or between adults and students. The imbalance of power between adults and students is of particular importance in a school environment. Use your influence to promote healthy student development. Also understand this imbalance can often continue after the student has left Emma Willard School.

● Accept responsibility for the impact of your actions and words, regardless of your intent.

● Relay community concerns to appropriate people at school, including referring students in need of counseling or health services.