Member Handbook
The RWYC reserves the right to modify the policies and procedures contained in this document at any time. Members are responsible for reading and complying with all notices posted at RWYC or sent to their attention.
OUR MISSION
The mission of the Ralph Wilson Youth Club is to provide an organized and supervised environment which offers boys and girls the opportunity to share social, educational and recreational experiences regardless of race, color, or creed, as they develop their capacity to be self-sufficient and responsible members of the community.
OUR HISTORY
The Ralph Wilson Youth Club evolved from the Temple Boys Club which was organized through the efforts of several Temple citizens in 1965. The previous building which was built and donated by Ralph Wilson Sr. in 1971 was demolished to make room for the I35 expansion through Temple. After an interim stay at Emerson Elementary, RWYC opened in January 2016 at a state-of-the-art, 47,000 square foot facility located at 1515 S. 25th Street in Temple.
Our motto is "Ralph Wilson Youth Clubs---We're Here for Your Kids!" We have lived up to that motto since 1965.
Hundreds of children participate in the RWYC After School Program and Summer Day Camp Program. Thanks to generous funding from the United Way of Central Texas and corporate supporters, fees remain affordable for Central Texas children.
THREE PILLARS OF EXCELLENCE
Ralph Wilson Youth Club programming is based on the organization’s Three Pillars of Excellence: Academics, Fine Arts, and Athletics. Academics focuses on a program that will enable youth to increase their educational prowess via programming that focuses on homework assistance, STEM programming, experience-based learning, computer based interactions, library initiatives and study designed to provide after school support to youth. .
Fine Arts provides an emphasis on the arts to include a wide range of art mediums and techniques through various art concepts.
Athletics focuses on providing area youth with access to recreational sporting opportunities through structured athletic games and leagues for volleyball and basketball. A variety of sports camps are also offered throughout the year to allow youth to be introduced to sports through entry level instructions.
3
Ralph Wilson Youth Club offers learning experiences through not only academics, fine arts, and athletics, but also through imaginative and creative play, hands-on learning, real-life experiences, meaningful and diverse relationships, and recreational activities that are accessible and impactful for each member that walks through our door.
REGISTRATION PROCEDURE
School Term: Children must be at least five (5) years old and entering Kindergarten, and no older than age 14 and entering 8th grade to register.
Summer Term: Children must have completed Kindergarten and cannot be entering 8th Grade the following year.
Re-enrollment is required for each month. Any pertinent information that changes during the term must be reported to the business office.
(254-773-9001 ext. 100)
CONFIDENTIALITY & RIGHT TO PRIVACY
RWYC will maintain confidentiality and respects the rights of families to have privacy. However, in the event that staff members are concerned about a child’s welfare, we must reveal confidential information to agencies or individuals who are empowered to act in the best interest of the child. In limited circumstances and in accordance with law, a member’s personal belongings may be searched by authorized personnel.
CHECK IN & DEPARTURE
RWYC requires that all members check in upon arrival at the facility with their provided member number. Members must be checked out of the facility by an adult (16 years of age or older) that possess an RWYC vehicle placard. Vehicle placards will be distributed within the first week of each term and to any future registrants by their second day of attendance. If an adult arrives to pick up a child and does not possess an RWYC vehicle placard, they must provide identification to verify their identity. Any changes to the pickup credentials associated with a member, must be communicated to the RWYC Executive Director and/or Club Coordinator 24 hours in advance of pick-up.
HOMEWORK ASSISTANCE
During the school term, RWYC provides assistance with homework after school in the study hall. Please contact the Club Coordinator with any questions. Due to the number of students requiring assistance, we are unable to do individual reading and specific tutoring with members.
4
DRESS CODE
Clothes that promote or encourage the use of alcohol, tobacco, or drugs by words, pictures, or slogans on them are not allowed. Clothes with large holes or tears made in them revealing skin or undergarments will not be allowed. Shirts and tops must cover midriff. Shoes must be worn at all times. “Heely” shoes, house shoes, and slides are prohibited. No flip flops or sandals are allowed on field trips unless they are water related.
SNACKS
Members can bring money to purchase items from the snack bar or bring their own snack from home. Members may keep an account at the snack bar. This account can be set up through the RWYC office Snack bar funds may be paid with cash, check, or card (Funds may be added online at rwycsports.org/store).
DISCIPLINE
RWYC uses redirection, discussion, and “time-out” for discipline. If this does not correct the problem, other action will be taken. See Member Code of Conduct for more information.
RULES FOR MEMBERS
• Treat everyone with respect.
• Respectfully follow the directions of all staff.
• Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself.
• Use all equipment and facilities safely and responsibly.
• Walk in facility. Running is only allowed in designated areas.
MISCELLANEOUS REMINDERS
• Members going on a field trip must leave and return with Ralph Wilson Youth Club
• Field trips are a privilege and attendance on a trip may be taken away for misbehavior on a field trip or while attending the club.
• Please do NOT drop off members prior to the opening of our facility.
• We strongly discourage bringing personal items, and we will NOT be responsible for lost items.
• We maintain a Lost and Found. Items left over a week will be donated to local charities.
• If a member is suspended and misses activities they are registered for, the classes will not be made up and the activity fee will not be refunded.
5
POSSESSION AND USE OF CELL PHONES
For safety purposes, RWYC permits members to possess personal cell phones; however, these devices must remain turned off while in the facility, unless they are being used in approved areas for approved purposes.
Staff may redirect members who have these devices out or in use in unapproved areas and for unapproved purposes. A redirection requires the member to put their phone away. Students may receive a disciplinary infraction for failure to comply with the redirection. Phones may be confiscated if members continue to keep the devices out after warnings, redirections, and other disciplinary techniques have been utilized. Any disciplinary action will be in accordance with the RWYC Code of Conduct. Confiscated telecommunications devices will be returned at the end of the day. Confiscated telecommunications devices that are not retrieved by the member or the member’s parents will be disposed of after the notice. RWYC is not responsible for any damaged, lost, confiscated, or stolen electronic device.
The use of mobile telephones or any device capable of capturing images is strictly prohibited in restroom areas while at RWYC.
In limited circumstances and in accordance with law, a member’s personal telecommunications device may be searched by authorized personnel.
RWYC TRANSPORTATION RULES
• Observe the RWYC Standards for Member Conduct found in the Code of Conduct.
• If the driver creates assigned seats, each student must sit in their assigned seat.
• REMAIN SEATED and facing forward for the entire ride.
• Be courteous, use no profane language.
• Do not eat or drink in the vehicle, this includes water bottles, gum, and sunflower seeds.
• Keep the vehicle clean.
• Cooperate with the driver.
• No tobacco or electronic/vapor smoking devices allowed on the vehicle.
• Do not damage the vehicle or equipment. You will be responsible to pay for any repair or damages made to the vehicle.
• Keep head, hands, and feet inside the vehicle.
• Do not fight, push, or shove other students or the driver.
• Do not tamper with the vehicle equipment
• Do not bring pets/animals in the vehicle.
• Do not bring flammable material in the vehicle.
• Keep your hands and feet to yourself.
• If it does not belong to you, do not touch it.
6
• Electronic devices can only be used if the driver allows them.
• Follow any other necessary rules communicated by RWYC.
• While exiting the vehicle, move at least 10’ away so the vehicle can proceed. Stay away from the wheels and watch out for moving cars!
If you leave something on the vehicle, never return to the vehicle to get it. Ask a staff member to inform the driver that you left something. The driver may not see you come back, and they may begin moving the vehicle. Also, if you drop something near the vehicle, get the vehicle driver’s attention from a safe distance before attempting to pick it up so they will know where you are.
CHROMEBOOK AND DESKTOP TECHNOLOGY AGREEMENT
Acceptable Use of RWYC-owned technology resources for instructional purposes may be issued to individual students. Use of these technological resources, which include the RWYC’s network systems and use of club equipment, are restricted to approved purposes only. In signing the final registration, members and parents are agreeing to the following rules and regulations found below regarding use of these RWYC resources. Violations of the agreement may result in withdrawal of privileges and other disciplinary action.
RWYC TECHNOLOGY USE AGREEMENT
• RWYC’s goal in providing technology resources and Internet access to staff and members is to promote educational excellence in our club by facilitating collaboration, innovation, and communication.
• RWYC has taken precautions to restrict access to inappropriate materials. However, on a global network it is impossible to control all materials and any user may discover inappropriate information.
• The guidelines provided here outline the user’s responsibility to operate ethically, efficiently and legally using RWYC network resources. Any RWYC member violating these policies, posted RWYC and specific room rules, or state and federal laws, is subject to:
o Suspension of user access to the system and/or equipment
o Termination/revocation of the system user account
o Other disciplinary action
o RWYC Staff will make the final determination as to what constitutes unacceptable use. Their decision is final.
o Responsible Use- The use of your account while at the club must be consistent with the educational objectives of RWYC.
o Transmission and/or access of any material in violation of any club, state, or US regulation is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to: copyrighted material, threatening or obscene material, or malicious or dangerous material.
7
o Members will respect the intellectual property of other users and information providers and obey copyright guidelines providing proper citation. Members will not plagiarize or use others’ work.
o Taking unapproved videos/photos of people and events at RWYC and/or the posting of such on any website is strictly forbidden.
o Use of RWYC technology resources for commercial activities, product advertisement or political lobbying is prohibited.
o Members will not install any personal computer programs or applications on RWYC devices without permission.
• Security - Protecting personal information and network security are high priorities.
o If you feel you can identify a security problem on the Internet, you must notify a staff member. Do not demonstrate the problem to other members.
• Vandalism - Vandalism is any malicious attempt to harm or destroy equipment, data of another user or any entity, or other networks that are connected to the Internet.
o Internet vandalism will result in cancellation of privileges. This includes but is not limited to, the uploading or creation of computer viruses.
o Hardware and software vandalism will result in cancellation of privileges. This includes but is not limited to, modifying, damaging, or destroying equipment, programs, files, or settings on any computer or other technology resource. RWYC makes no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the service it is providing.
• RWYC will not be responsible for any damages including loss of data resulting from service interruptions, negligence, user errors, or omissions. Use of any information obtained via the Internet is at the member’s risk. RWYC specifically denies any responsibility for the accuracy or quality of such information.
• The use of technology resources provided by RWYC is not transferable or extendible by members to people or groups outside RWYC and terminates when a member is no longer enrolled in RWYC.
• This policy is provided to make all members aware of the responsibilities associated with efficient, ethical, and lawful use of technology resources.
• If a member violates any of the User Terms and Conditions named in this policy, privileges may be terminated, access to the school district technology resources may be denied, and the appropriate disciplinary action shall be applied. The RWYC Member Code of Conduct shall be applied to member infractions.
8
MEDIA AGREEMENT
• If a parent does not want his or her child to have access to the Internet or any other form of technology resources, the parent must notify RWYC in writing.
• RWYC may display a student’s work as recognition of student achievement.
• As a parent, if you do not want your child’s artwork, special projects, photographs taken by your child or images of your child to be displayed on the RWYC website, social media, in printed material, by video, or by any other method of mass communication, you must notify RWYC in writing.
MEDICATION & ILLNESS
School Term: A designated RWYC staff will be available to provide first-aid care in the event of an injury, and to assist a member with an illness that may develop while at RWYC. RWYC will document the administration of any first aid and contact parents if a member must be picked up from the facility due to an injury or illness.
Summer Term: A certified RN or LVN will be available to provide first-aid care in the event of an injury, and to assist a member with an illness that may develop while at RWYC. RWYC will document the administration of any first aid and contact parents if a member must be picked up from the facility due to an injury or illness.
Medication
RWYC will ONLY administer emergency medication as needed. This medication must be dropped off by a parent along with a completed Emergency Medication form. RWYC does not keep or administer any other over the counter or prescription medication. Members may NOT carry medication or administer it themselves. If a member needs medication, a guardian must come to the facility to administer the medication.
First-aid/Injury
RWYC possesses basic supplies available for care of cuts/scrapes/bumps/bruises and other minor conditions. Minor wounds will be cared for with the basic method of clean and cover (washed with soap and water and bandaged as necessary). Splinting will be used as necessary for possible fractures and parents will be contacted immediately to take the child for further medical care
Parents/guardians will be notified of serious injury or health concerns requiring the child to be picked up. If deemed necessary, RWYC will contact emergency services.
9
Illness
If your child is found to have a temperature of 99.0 or higher, vomiting, or has diarrhea, you will be contacted to pick the child up. Please keep your child at home until a physician releases them to return.
Lice
• A parent /guardian of a child with live lice shall be notified by phone and advised to pick up the member for treatment. The child should be treated with an appropriate lice elimination shampoo before returning to RWYC.
• Students with nits (egg sacks) down the hair shaft, as determined by the RWYC screener, will not be excluded from RWYC.
• A child that has been excluded from RWYC for lice shall be readmitted to RWYC upon:
o Examination by the RWYC screener prior to readmission to RWYC.
o The screener will assess for effectiveness of treatment and will readmit the student when no signs of live lice are present.
10
Ralph Wilson Youth Club (RWYC) Member Code of Conduct
RWYC rules and the authority of RWYC to administer discipline apply whenever the interest of RWYC is involved, on or off RWYC property, in conjunction with or independent of club activities and club-sponsored events.
RWYC Disciplinary Authority
RWYC has disciplinary authority over a member:
• During the regular school term and summer term hours and while the member is going to and from the club on RWYC transportation.
• While the member attends any RWYC-related activity, regardless of time or location
• For any RWYC-related misconduct, regardless of time or location.
• When retaliation against a RWYC employee, board member, or volunteer occurs or is threatened, regardless of time or location.
• When a member engages in cyberbullying on the RWYC premises or if the cyberbullying includes another RWYC member, employee, board member, or volunteer.
• When criminal mischief is committed on or off RWYC property or at a RWYC-related event
• For certain offenses committed within 300 feet of RWYC property as measured from any point on RWYC’s real property boundary line.
• For certain offenses committed while on RWYC property or while attending a RWYC sponsored or RWYC-related activity.
• RWYC has the right to search a member’s bag when there is reasonable cause to believe it contains articles or materials prohibited by RWYC.
Conduct Applicability of RWYC Rules
RWYC’s Board of Directors has adopted a Member Code of Conduct that prohibits certain behaviors and defines standards of acceptable behavior both on and off facility grounds as well as within RWYC vehicles and consequences for violation of these standards. RWYC has disciplinary authority over a member in accordance with the Member Code of Conduct. Members and parents should be familiar with the standards set out in the Member Code of Conduct, as well as RWYC facility rules (see Member Handbook)
3
RWYC Behavior Coordinators
RWYC designates the Executive Director and Club Coordinator as Behavior Coordinators. These staff members will be responsible for providing oversight of the discipline management techniques and administer consequences for certain student misconduct, as well as provide a point of contact for member misconduct.
Standards for Member Conduct
Each member is expected to:
• Demonstrate courtesy, even when others do not
• Behave in a responsible manner, always exercising self-discipline.
• Meet RWYC standards of grooming and dress (found in the Member Handbook)
• Obey all RWYC rules as stated by staff.
• Respect the rights and privileges of members, junior staff, senior staff, and all other RWYC staff and volunteers.
• Respect the property of others, including RWYC property and facilities.
• Cooperate with and assist RWYC staff in maintaining safety, order, and discipline
• Adhere to the requirements of the Ralph Wilson Youth Club Member Code of Conduct as outlined in this document
General Conduct Violations
The categories of conduct below are prohibited at RWYC, in vehicles owned or operated by RWYC, and at all RWYC-related activities, but the list does not include the most severe offenses. In the subsequent sections on Suspension and/or Expulsion for Certain Offenses, and Expulsion, certain offenses that require or permit specific consequences are listed. Any offense, however, may be severe enough to result in removal from the regular RWYC Setting as detailed in that section.
Disregard for Authority
Members shall not:
• Fail to comply with directives given by any RWYC staff member.
• Leave RWYC grounds or RWYC-sponsored events without proper supervision.
• Disobey standards for member conduct and rules in RWYC vehicles (found in the member handbook).
• Refuse to accept discipline management techniques assigned by an RWYC staff (list of techniques found under Discipline Management Techniques).
4
Mistreatment of Others
Members shall not:
• Use profanity or vulgar language or make obscene gestures.
• Fight or scuffle. (For assault, see Suspension and Expulsion.)
• Threaten a member, employee, or volunteer, on RWYC property or away from RWYC property.
• Engage in bullying, cyberbullying, harassment, or making hit lists. (See glossary for all four terms.)
• Obtain, release or threaten to release intimate visual material of a minor or a member or employee who is 18 years of age or older.
• Engage in conduct that constitutes harassment or discrimination based on race, age, gender, or sexual orientation, whether by word, gesture, or any other conduct, directed toward another person, including a RWYC member, employee, board member, or volunteer.
• Engage in conduct that constitutes dating violence. (See glossary.)
• Engage in inappropriate or indecent exposure of private body parts.
• Participate in hazing. (See glossary.)
• Cause an individual to act through the use of or threat of force (coercion).
• Commit extortion or blackmail (obtaining money or an object of value from an unwilling person).
• Engage in inappropriate verbal, physical, or sexual conduct directed toward another person, including a RWYC member, employee, or volunteer.
• Record the voice or image of another individual without prior consent of the individual being recorded or in any way that disrupts the environment or invades the privacy of others.
Property Offenses
Members shall not:
• Damage or vandalize property owned by others. (For felony criminal mischief, see Expulsion.)
• Deface or damage RWYC property
• Steal from members, staff, or RWYC. Commit or assist in a robbery or theft.
Possession Electronic Devices
Members shall not:
• Use a telecommunications device, including a cellular telephone, or other electronic device in violation of the RWYC rules as found in Member Handbook.
5
Prohibited Items
Members shall not possess or use:
• Fireworks of any kind, smoke or stink bombs, or any other pyrotechnic device;
• A razor, box cutter, chain, or any other object used in a way that threatens or inflicts bodily injury to another person;
• A “look-alike” weapon that is intended to be used as a weapon or could reasonably be perceived as a weapon;
• An air gun or BB gun; ammunition;
• A hand instrument designed to cut or stab another by being thrown;
• *A firearm;
• A stun gun;
• *A knife of any size;
• Mace or pepper spray;
• Pornographic material;
• Tobacco products; cigarettes; e-cigarettes; and any component, part, or accessory for an e-cigarette device;
• Matches or a lighter;
• A laser pointer for other than an approved use;
• Gum
• Blankets
• Stuffed animals
• Any articles not generally considered to be weapons when the RWYC Staff determine that a danger exists.
*For weapons and firearms, see Suspension and Expulsion. In most circumstances, possession of these items is punishable by mandatory expulsion.
Illegal, Prescription, and Over-the-Counter Drugs
Members shall not:
• Possess, use, give, or sell prescription drugs, over the counter drugs, alcohol or an illegal drug. (Also see Suspension and Expulsion for mandatory and permissive consequences under state law.)
• Possess, use, give, or sell paraphernalia related to any prohibited substance. (See glossary for “paraphernalia.”)
• Possess, use, abuse, or sell look-alike drugs or attempt to pass items off as drugs or contraband.
• Be under the influence of prescription or over-the-counter drugs that cause impairment of the physical or mental faculties. (See glossary for “under the influence.”)
• Have or take prescription drugs or over-the-counter drugs at RWYC other than as provided by RWYC policy in the Member Handbook which is only to include emergency medication.
6
Misuse of Technology Resources including the Internet
Members shall not:
• Violate policies, rules, or agreements signed by the member or the member’s parent regarding the use of technology resources.
• Attempt to access or circumvent passwords or other security-related information of the RWYC, members, or employees or upload or create computer viruses, including off RWYC property if the conduct causes a substantial disruption to the RWYC environment.
• Attempt to alter, destroy, or disable RWYC technology resources including, but not limited to, computers and related equipment, RWYC data, the data of others, or other networks connected to RWYC’s system, including off RWYC property if the conduct causes a substantial disruption to the RWYC program.
• Use the Internet or other electronic communications to threaten RWYC members, employees, board members, or volunteers, including off RWYC property if the conduct causes a substantial disruption to the RWYC program or infringes on the rights of another member.
• Send, post, deliver, or possess electronic messages that are abusive, obscene, sexually oriented, threatening, harassing, damaging to another’s reputation, or illegal, including cyberbullying and “sexting,” either on or off RWYC property, if the conduct causes a substantial disruption to the RWYC program or infringes on the rights of a RWYC member, employee, board member, or volunteer.
• Use the Internet or other electronic communication to engage in or encourage illegal behavior or threaten RWYC safety, including off RWYC property if the conduct causes a substantial disruption to the RWYC program or infringes on the rights of a RWYC member, employee, board member, or volunteer.
Safety Transgressions
Members shall not:
• Possess published or electronic material that is designed to promote or encourage illegal behavior or that could threaten RWYC safety.
• Engage in verbal (oral or written) exchanges that threaten the safety of another member, a RWYC employee, or RWYC property.
• Make false accusations or perpetrate hoaxes regarding RWYC safety.
• Engage in any conduct that RWYC staff might reasonably believe will substantially disrupt the RWYC program or incite violence.
• Throw objects that can cause bodily injury or property damage.
• Discharge a fire extinguisher without valid cause.
7
Miscellaneous Offenses
Students shall not:
• Violate dress and grooming standards as communicated in the Member Handbook.
• Cheat or copy the work of another.
• Gamble.
• Falsify records, passes, or other RWYC-related documents.
• Engage in actions or demonstrations that substantially disrupt or materially interfere with RWYC activities.
• Repeatedly violate other communicated RWYC standards of conduct.
RWYC may add rules in addition to those found in the Member Code of Conduct. These rules may be posted in the RWYC facility or given to the member.
Discipline Management Techniques
Discipline shall be designed to improve conduct and to encourage members to adhere to their responsibilities as members of the RWYC community. Disciplinary action shall be based on the professional judgment of the RWYC Executive Director or Club Coordinator in consultation with RWYC staff. A range of discipline management techniques will be explored when rendering disciplinary actions. Discipline shall be correlated to the seriousness of the offense, the student’s age and grade level, the frequency of misbehavior, the student’s attitude, the effect of the misconduct on the RWYC programs, and statutory requirements. Because of these factors, discipline for a particular offense, including misconduct in a RWYC vehicle owned or operated by RWYC, unless otherwise specified by law, may bring into consideration varying techniques and responses.
Techniques
The following discipline management techniques may be used alone, in combination, or as part of progressive interventions for behavior prohibited by the Member Code of Conduct or by RWYC rules:
• Restorative Discipline
• Verbal correction, oral or written
• Cooling-off time or “time-out”
• Restitution
• Apology (public or private)
• Seating changes within the rooms or vehicles owned or operated by RWYC
• Temporary confiscation of items that disrupt the RWYC program
• Transfer to another area within the facility
• Parent-Director conferences
• Confiscation of items that disrupt the RWYC program. The RWYC Executive Director or Club Coordinator will determine the period of confiscation, generally not to exceed the end of the term for which the member is enrolled
• Confiscation of paging devices, cellular telephones, camera phones, or similar device
• Surveillance or escort
8
• Family group conferencing
• Assignment of RWYC duties, such as cleaning or picking up litter with parental consent.
• Withdrawal of privileges, such as participation in field trips and eligibility for certain RWYC programs
• Restriction or revocation of RWYC transportation privileges
• Suspension, as specified in the Suspension section of this Code
• Expulsion, as specified in the Expulsion section of this Code
• Referral to an outside agency or legal authority for criminal prosecution in addition to disciplinary measures imposed by RWYC
• RWYC staff may file a criminal complaint against a member for an offense that is a Class C misdemeanor committed on RWYC property that contains a sworn statement from a person who has personal knowledge of the underlying facts giving rise to probable cause.
• Other strategies and consequences as determined by RWYC staff
Notification
The RWYC Executive Director or Club Coordinator shall promptly notify a member’s parent by phone, e-mail, or in person of any violation that may result in a suspension or expulsion. The RWYC Executive Director or Club Coordinator shall also notify a member’s parent if the member is taken into custody by a law enforcement officer. A good faith effort shall be made on the day the action was taken to provide to the member for delivery to the member’s parent written notification of the disciplinary action. When the RWYC Executive Director or Club Coordinator suspends a member, notice shall be given to the member’s parent to inform him or her of the reason for the suspension and permit arrangements for necessary transportation.
Appeals
Questions from parents regarding disciplinary measures should be addressed to the RWYC Executive Director or Club Coordinator Appeals or complaints regarding the use of specific discipline management techniques should be addressed in accordance. A copy of the policy may be obtained from the RWYC office, or on RWYC’s website. Consequences shall not be deferred pending the outcome of a grievance.
Removal from a RWYC Bus
A bus driver will notify the RWYC bus monitor or Athletic Director concerning the actions of member while on a RWYC bus. The bus monitor or Athletic Director will work with the RWYC Executive Director or Club Coordinator to address discipline issues while on a RWYC bus. The RWYC Executive Director or Club Coordinator may employ additional discipline management techniques, as appropriate, which can include restricting or revoking a member’s bus riding privileges. Since RWYC’s primary responsibility in transporting students in RWYC vehicles is to do so as safely as possible, the operator of the vehicle must focus on driving and not have his or her attention distracted by member misbehavior. Therefore, when appropriate disciplinary management techniques fail to improve member behavior or when specific behavior is prohibiting the bus to operate as needed, a member may be removed from the RWYC vehicle.
9
Formal Infractions
A RWYC staff may initiate a formal infraction if:
1. The member’s behavior, after one redirection by the staff, is repeatedly interfering with the RWYC staff’s ability to manage their area effectively or with other member’s ability to participate in RWYC programs and activities; or
2. The behavior is so unruly, disruptive, or abusive that RWYC staff cannot manage their area safely.
A formal infraction occurs when a RWYC staff sends a member to the RWYC Executive Director or Club Coordinator as a discipline management technique. The RWYC Executive Director or Club Coordinator shall conference with the member and employ the proper discipline management techniques, as laid out under “Techniques”. RWYC staff may remove a member from any area within the RWYC facility for a behavior that violates this Code to maintain effective discipline within RWYC.
At the conference, the RWYC Executive Director or Club Coordinator shall inform the member of the misconduct for which he or she is charged and the consequences. The member shall have an opportunity to give his or her version of the incident.
RWYC staff must remove a member if the member engages in behavior that requires or permits the member to be suspended or expelled. When removing for those reasons, the procedures in the subsequent sections on suspension and/or expulsion shall be followed.
Suspension & Expulsion
Discretionary Suspension
Members may be suspended for any documented repeated behavior listed in the Code of Conduct as a general conduct violation, or any expellable offense.
Before being suspended, a member shall have an informal conference with the RWYC Executive Director or Club Coordinator, who shall advise the member of the conduct of which he or she is accused. The member shall be given the opportunity to explain his or her version of the incident before the Executive Director or Club Coordinator renders a decision.
The number of days of a member’s suspension shall be determined by the RWYC Executive Director or Club Coordinator. In deciding whether to order a suspension, the RWYC Executive Director or Club Coordinator shall take into consideration:
1. Self-defense (see glossary),
2. Intent or lack of intent at the time the member engaged in the conduct,
10
3. The member’s disciplinary history, and/or
4. A disability that substantially impairs the member’s capacity to appreciate the wrongfulness of the member’s conduct.
The RWYC Executive Director or Club Coordinator shall determine any restrictions on participation in RWYC sponsored or RWYC-related camps, field trips, or special programs.
Discretionary Expulsion
In deciding whether to order expulsion, regardless of whether the action is mandatory or discretionary, the RWYC Executive Director or Club Coordinator shall take into consideration:
1. Self-defense (see glossary),
2. Intent or lack of intent at the time the member engaged in the conduct,
3. The member’s disciplinary history, and/or
4. A disability that substantially impairs the member’s capacity to appreciate the wrongfulness of the member’s conduct.
A member can be expelled from RWYC for:
• a term, making them eligible to register and return for the next term, or
• Indefinitely, making them ineligible to register and return to RWYC in the future.
This decision will be made by the RWYC Executive Director or Club Coordinator based on the seriousness of the offense.
Misconduct That May Result in Expulsion
A member may be expelled from the club for:
• Repeated misconduct, as laid out in General Conduct Violations, that has not been resolved after two previous three-day suspensions.
• Engaging in bullying that encourages a member to commit or attempt to commit suicide.
• Inciting violence against a member through group bullying.
• Obtaining, releasing or threatening to release intimate visual material of a minor or a member, staff member, or volunteer
• Conduct that contains the elements of assault under Penal Code 22.01(a)(1) in retaliation against a staff member, board member, or volunteer.
• Criminal mischief
• Engaging in conduct that contains the elements of one of the following offenses against another member:
o Aggravated assault.
o Sexual assault.
o Aggravated sexual assault.
o Murder.
o Capital murder.
o Criminal attempt to commit murder or capital murder.
11
o Aggravated robbery.
o Breach of computer security. (See glossary)
o Engaging in conduct relating to a false alarm or report (including a bomb threat) or a terroristic threat.
At RWYC, Within 300 Feet, or at a RWYC Event
A member may be expelled for committing any of the following offenses on or within 300 feet of RWYC property, as measured from any point on RWYC’s real property boundary line, or while attending a RWYC-sponsored or RWYC-related activity on or off RWYC property:
• Engaging in conduct that contains the elements of assault under Penal Code Section 22.01(a)(1) against an employee or a volunteer.
• Carrying on or about the student’s person a handgun, a location-restricted knife, or a club, as these terms are defined by state law. (See glossary.)
• Engaging in deadly conduct. (See glossary.)
• Aggravated assault, sexual assault, or aggravated sexual assault.
• Arson. (See glossary.)
• Murder, capital murder, or criminal attempt to commit murder or capital murder. Indecency with a child, aggravated kidnapping, manslaughter, criminally negligent homicide, or aggravated robbery.
• Sexual abuse of a young child or children.
• Felony drug- or alcohol-related offense.
• Possessing, manufacturing, transporting, repairing, or selling a prohibited weapon, as defined by state law. (See glossary.)
• Possession of a firearm, as defined by federal law. (See glossary.).
Appealing an Expulsion
Initial Appeal
Questions from parents regarding an initial expulsion appeal should be addressed to the Executive Director. The initial appeal must be made within two business days after receipt of the written decision. The Executive Director will communicate with the member, parents, and behavior coordinator before confirming or reversing a decision on the appeal. The Executive Director will confirm, reverse or reduce the decision within three business days. The decision will be communicated to the member’s guardian via letter and verbally via phone. Consequences shall not be deferred pending the outcome of a grievance.
Final Appeal
After the expulsion is confirmed by the Executive Director, the expelled member’s guardian may make a final appeal to the Board of Director’s Executive Committee for review. The member’s guardian must submit a written request to the Executive Director within seven business days after receipt of the written decision. The Executive Director will provide the member’s guardian with written notice of the date and time that the Executive Committee will review the decision.
12
The Executive Director will also communicate with the member’s guardian if the Executive Committee desires to have the member’s guardian appear before the Executive Committee.
The Executive Committee shall review the records associated with the expulsion decision in a closed meeting. Upon completion of the review, the Executive Committee will render a decision to the Executive Director. The decision will be in the form of a letter stating the name of the member and the decision to overturn or uphold the disciplinary decision that was reviewed.
Consequences shall not be deferred pending the outcome of the hearing.
Emergency Expulsion Procedures
When an emergency expulsion is necessary to protect persons or property from imminent harm, the member shall be given verbal notice of the reason for the action. Within ten days after the date of the emergency expulsion, the member shall be given appropriate due process required for a student facing expulsion.
13
Glossary
Abuse is improper or excessive use.
Aggravated robbery is defined in part by Texas Penal Code 29.03(a) as when a person commits robbery and:
1. Causes serious bodily injury to another;
2. Uses or exhibits a deadly weapon; or
3. Causes bodily injury to another person or threatens or places another person in fear of imminent bodily injury or death, if the other person is:
a. 65 years of age or older, or
b. A disabled person.
Armor-piercing ammunition is defined by Texas Penal Code 46.01 as handgun ammunition used in pistols and revolvers and designed primarily for the purpose of penetrating metal or body armor.
Arson is defined in part by Texas Penal Code 28.02 as:
1. A crime that involves starting a fire or causing an explosion with intent to destroy or damage:
a. Any vegetation, fence, or structure on open-space land; or
b. Any building, habitation, or vehicle:
i. Knowing that it is within the limits of an incorporated city or town,
ii. Knowing that it is insured against damage or destruction,
iii. Knowing that it is subject to a mortgage or other security interest,
iv. Knowing that it is located on property belonging to another,
v. Knowing that it has located within it property belonging to another, or
vi. When the person starting the fire is reckless about whether the burning or explosion will endanger the life of some individual or the safety of the property of another.
2. A crime that involves recklessly starting a fire or causing an explosion while manufacturing or attempting to manufacture a controlled substance and the fire or explosion damages any building, habitation, or vehicle; or
3. A crime that involves intentionally starting a fire or causing an explosion and in so doing:
a. Recklessly damages or destroys a building belonging to another, or b. Recklessly causes another person to suffer bodily injury or death. Assault is defined in part by Texas Penal Code §22.01
(a)(1) as intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury to another;
§22.01
(a)(2) as intentionally or knowingly threatening another with imminent bodily injury; and §22.01
(a)(3) as intentionally or knowingly causing physical contact with another that can reasonably be regarded as offensive or provocative.
Assault is defined in part by Texas Penal Code §22.01(a)(1) as intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury to another; §22.01(a)(2) as intentionally or knowingly threatening another with imminent bodily injury; and §22.01(a)(3) as intentionally or knowingly causing physical contact with another that can reasonably be regarded as offensive or provocative.
14
Breach of Computer Security includes knowingly accessing a computer, computer network, or computer system without the effective consent of the owner as defined in Texas Penal Code 33.02, if the conduct involves accessing a computer, computer network, or computer system owned by or operated on behalf of a school district; and the student knowingly alters, damages
Bullying: Bullying is defined as a single significant act or a pattern of acts by one or more members directed at another member that exploits an imbalance of power and involves in written or verbal expression, expression through electronic means, or physical conduct that:
o has the effect or will have the effect of physically harming a member, damaging a member’s property, or placing a member in reasonable fear of harm to the member’s person or of damage to the member’s property; or
o is sufficiently severe, persistent, and pervasive enough that the action or threat creates an intimidating, threatening, or abusive educational environment for a student.
o interferes with a member’s positive experience at the club or substantially disrupts the orderly operation of the club.
Chemical dispensing device is defined by Texas Penal Code 46.01 as a device designed, made, or adapted for the purpose of dispensing a substance capable of causing an adverse psychological or physiological effect on a human being.
Club is defined by Texas Penal Code 46.01 as an instrument specially designed, made, or adapted for the purpose of inflicting serious bodily injury or death. A blackjack, nightstick, mace, and tomahawk are in the same category.
Criminal street gang is three or more persons having a common identifying sign or symbol or an identifiable leadership who continuously or regularly associate in the commission of criminal activities.
Cyberbullying is bullying that is done through the use of any electronic communication device, including through the use of a cellular or other type of telephone, a computer, a camera, electronic mail, instant messaging, text messaging, a social media application, an Internet website, or any other Internet-based communication tool.
Dating violence occurs when a person in a current or past dating relationship uses physical, sexual, verbal, or emotional abuse to harm, threaten, intimidate, or control another person in the relationship. Dating violence also occurs when a person commits these acts against a person in a marriage or dating relationship with the individual who is or was once in a marriage or dating relationship with the person committing the offense, as defined by Section 71.0021 of the Family Code.
Deadly conduct occurs when a person recklessly engages in conduct that places another in imminent danger of serious bodily injury, such as knowingly discharging a firearm in the direction of an individual, habitation, building, or vehicle.
Deferred adjudication is an alternative to seeking a conviction in court that may be offered to a juvenile for delinquent conduct or conduct indicating a need for supervision.
Deferred prosecution may be offered to a juvenile as an alternative to seeking a conviction in court for delinquent conduct or conduct indicating a need for supervision.
15
Delinquent conduct is conduct that violates either state or federal law and is punishable by imprisonment or confinement in jail. It includes conduct that violates certain juvenile court orders, including probation orders, but does not include violations of traffic laws.
Discretionary means that something is left to or regulated by a local decision maker
E-cigarette means an electronic cigarette or any other device that simulates smoking by using a mechanical heating element, battery, or electronic circuit to deliver nicotine or other substances to the individual inhaling from the device. The term includes any device that is manufactured, distributed, or sold as an e-cigarette, e-cigar, or e-pipe or under another product name or description and a component, part, or accessory for the device, regardless of whether the component, part, or accessory is sold separately from the device.
Explosive weapon is defined by Texas Penal Code 46.01 as any explosive or incendiary bomb, grenade, rocket, or mine and its delivery mechanism that is designed, made, or adapted for the purpose of inflicting serious bodily injury, death, or substantial property damage, or for the principal purpose of causing such a loud report as to cause undue public alarm or terror.
False alarm or report occurs when a person knowingly initiates, communicates, or circulates a report of a present, past, or future bombing, fire, offense, or other emergency that he or she knows is false or baseless and that would ordinarily:
1. Cause action by an official or volunteer agency organized to deal with emergencies;
2. Place a person in fear of imminent serious bodily injury; or
3. Prevent or interrupt the occupation of a building, room, or place of assembly.
Fighting: Fighting involves mutual combat between two or more members.
Firearm is defined by federal law (18 U.S.C. § 921(a)) as:
1. Any weapon (including a starter gun) that will, is designed to, or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive;
2. The frame or receiver of any such weapon;
3. Any firearm muffler or firearm weapon; or
4. Any destructive device, such as any explosive, incendiary or poison gas bomb, or grenade. Such term does not include an antique firearm.
Firearm silencer is defined by Texas Penal Code 46.01 as any device designed, made, or adapted to muffle the report of a firearm.
Graffiti are markings with paint, an indelible pen or marker, or an etching or engraving device on tangible property without the effective consent of the owner. The markings may include inscriptions, slogans, drawings, or paintings.
Handgun is defined by Texas Penal Code 46.01 as any firearm that is designed, made, or adapted to be fired with one hand.
Harassment is:
1. Conduct that meets the definition established in RWYC policies as written above; or
2. Conduct that threatens to cause harm or bodily injury to another person, including a district student, employee, board member, or volunteer; is sexually intimidating; causes physical damage
16
to the property of another student; subjects another student to physical confinement or restraint; or maliciously and substantially harms another student’s physical or emotional health or safety.
Hazing is an intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, by one person alone or acting with others, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of pledging, initiation into, affiliation with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in an organization.
Hit list is a list of people targeted to be harmed, using a firearm, a knife, or any other object to be used with intent to cause bodily harm.
Improvised explosive device is defined by Texas Penal Code 46.01 as a completed and operational bomb designed to cause serious bodily injury, death, or substantial property damage that is fabricated in an improvised manner using nonmilitary components.
Improper Physical Contact: Members putting their hands, feet, or any other objects on another member without the intent to fight or cause bodily harm.
Indecent exposure is defined by Texas Penal Code 21.08 as an offense that occurs when a person exposes his or her anus or any part of his or her genitals with intent to arouse or gratify the sexual desire of any person, and is reckless about whether another is present who will be offended or alarmed by the act.
Intimate visual material is defined by Texas Civil Practices and Remedies Code 98B.001 and Texas Penal Code 21.16 as visual material that depicts a person with the person’s intimate parts exposed or engaged in sexual conduct. “Visual material” means any film, photograph, video tape, negative, or slide of any photographic reproduction or any other physical medium that allows an image to be displayed on a computer or other video screen and any image transmitted to a computer or other video screen.
Location-restricted knife is defined by Texas Penal Code 46.01 as a knife with a blade over five and one-half inches.
Knuckles as defined by Texas Penal Code 46.01 are any instrument consisting of finger rings or guards made of a hard substance and designed or adapted for inflicting serious bodily injury or death by striking a person with a fist enclosed in the knuckles.
Look-alike weapon means an item that resembles a weapon but is not intended to be used to cause serious bodily injury.
Machine gun as defined by Texas Penal Code 46.01 is any firearm that is capable of shooting more than two shots automatically, without manual reloading, by a single function of the trigger.
Mandatory means that something is obligatory or required because of an authority.
Paraphernalia are devices that can be used for inhaling, ingesting, injecting, or otherwise introducing a controlled substance into a human body.
Parent includes a parent, legal guardian, or other person having lawful control of the child.
17
Possession means to have an item on one’s person or in one’s personal property, including, but not limited to, clothing, purse, or backpack; a private vehicle used for transportation to or from school or school-related activities, including, but not limited, to an automobile, truck, motorcycle, or bicycle; telecommunications or electronic devices; or any school property used by the student, including, but not limited to, a locker or desk.
Prohibited weapon under Texas Penal Code 46.05(a) means:
1. The following items unless registered with the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives or otherwise not subject to that registration requirement or unless the item is classified as a curio or relic by the U.S. Department of Justice:
a. An explosive weapon;
b. A machine gun;
c. A short-barrel firearm;
2. Knuckles;
3. Armor-piercing ammunition;
4. A chemical dispensing device;
5. A zip gun;
6. A tire deflation device;
7. An improvised explosive device; or
8. A firearm silencer, unless classified as a curio or relic by the U.S. Department of Justice or the actor otherwise possesses, manufactures, transports, repairs, or sells the firearm silencer in compliance with federal law.
Public Lewdness is defined by Texas Penal Code 21.07 as an offense that occurs when a person knowingly engages in an act of sexual intercourse, deviate sexual intercourse, or sexual contact in a public place or, if not in a public place, is reckless about whether another is present who will be offended or alarmed by the act.
Reasonable belief is a determination made by the Behavior Coordinator using all available information, including the information furnished under Article 15.27 of the Code of Criminal Procedure.
Self-defense is the use of force against another to the degree a person reasonably believes the force is immediately necessary to protect himself or herself.
Serious misbehavior means:
1. Deliberate violent behavior that poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others; 2. Extortion, meaning the gaining of money or other property by force or threat;
3. Conduct that constitutes coercion, as defined by Section 1.07, Texas Penal Code; or 4. Conduct that constitutes the offense of:
a. Public lewdness under Section 21.07, Texas Penal Code;
b. Indecent exposure under Section 21.08; Texas Penal Code;
c. Criminal mischief under Section 28.03, Texas Penal Code;
d. Personal hazing; or
e. Harassment under Section 42.07(a)(1), Texas Penal Code, of a student or district employee.
Serious or persistent misbehavior includes, but is not limited to:
• Behavior that is grounds for permissible suspension or expulsion.
• Behavior identified by RWYC as grounds for discretionary suspension or expulsion.
18
• Actions or demonstrations that substantially disrupt or materially interfere with RWYC activities.
• Insubordination.
• Profanity, vulgar language, or obscene gestures.
• Leaving RWYC grounds without permission.
• Refusal to accept discipline assigned by the Behavior Coordinator.
Short-barrel firearm is defined by Texas Penal Code 46.01 as a rifle with a barrel length of less than 16 inches or a shotgun with a barrel length of less than 18 inches, or any weapon made from a rifle or shotgun that, as altered, has an overall length of less than 26 inches.
Terroristic threat is defined by Texas Penal Code 22.07 as a threat of violence to any person or property with intent to:
1. Cause a reaction of any type by an official or volunteer agency organized to deal with emergencies;
2. Place any person in fear of imminent serious bodily injury;
3. Prevent or interrupt the occupation or use of a building; room, place of assembly, or place to which the public has access; place of employment or occupation; aircraft, automobile, or other form of conveyance; or another public place;
4. Cause impairment or interruption of public communications; public transportation; public water, gas, or power supply; or other public service;
5. Place the public or a substantial group of the public in fear of serious bodily injury; or
6. Influence the conduct or activities of a branch or agency of the federal government, the state, or a political subdivision of the state (including the district).
Tire deflation device is defined in part by Section 46.01 of the Texas Penal Code as a device, including a caltrop or spike strip, that, when driven over, impedes or stops the movement of a wheeled vehicle by puncturing one or more of the vehicle’s tires.
Unauthorized Persons The directors at the club shall have the authority to refuse entry or eject a person from property if the person refuses to leave peaceably on request and:
1. The person poses a substantial risk of harm to any person; or
2. The person behaves in a manner that is inappropriate, and the person persists in the behavior after being given a verbal warning that the behavior is inappropriate and may result in refusal of entry or ejection. Appeals regarding refusal of entry or ejection from property may be filed in accordance with the Executive Director as appropriate.
Under the influence means lacking the normal use of mental or physical faculties. Impairment of a person’s physical or mental faculties may be evidenced by a pattern of abnormal or erratic behavior, the presence of physical symptoms of drug or alcohol use, or by admission. A member “under the influence” need not be legally intoxicated to trigger disciplinary action.
Use means voluntarily introducing into one’s body, by any means, a prohibited substance.
Zip gun is defined by Texas Penal Code 46.01 as a device or combination of devices, not originally a firearm, but adapted to expel a projectile through a smooth-bore or rifled-bore barrel by using the energy generated by an explosion or burning substance.
19
20
