The Discipline Code is also known as the Citywide Behavioral Expectations to Support Student Learning. It:
- Is age-specific with one set for grades K-5 and another for grades 6-12.
- Explains the standards for behavior in the New York City public schools.
- Describes supports, interventions, and disciplinary responses that schools can use when students demonstrate unwelcome behavior.
- Explains how you can appeal decisions.
- Includes the K-12 Student Bill of Rights and Responsibilities.
Ensuring that every child learns in safe, supportive, and inclusive schools is our top priority. To do this, we use preventive approaches that address the real causes of a conflict as well as reinforcing positive behaviors through teachable moments. The Discipline Code outlines the standards of behavior and the responses if these standards are not met. We encourage you to become familiar with these standards and discuss them at home.
The current version of the Discipline Code includes input from principals, teachers, safety administrators, parents, students, and advocacy groups.
Parents who want to discuss supports and interventions in response to student behavior should contact their child’s school, including the Parent Coordinator, or, if necessary, the Family Support Coordinator in your District Office. Please use our get help page for guidance about the appropriate people in your school or district to reach and for information to look up their contact information.
Proposed Updates for the SY 2025-26 Code of Conduct and District-Wide Safety Plan
The NYC Public Schools is required to review and update the Code of Conduct and District-Wide Safety Plan for School Year 2025-2026. Below please find a draft of the SY25-26 Code of Conduct and District - Wide Safety Plan (add English document) that reflects proposed changes. We invite you review the draft, and to share feedback regarding these proposed changes to safetyandprevention@schools.nyc.gov no later than August 22, 2025. On August 26, 2025, NYC Public Schools will hold a virtual public hearing starting at 6pm, where we will review the proposed updates and welcome any feedback. The Zoom link information is available below.
SY 2024-25 Code of Conduct and District-Wide Safety Plan
The SY 2024-2025 Code of Conduct and District-Wide Safety Plan was posted for public comment on July 15, 2024 and was adopted after a public hearing that was held on August 27, 2024. The plan was submitted to NYSED on September 26, 2024.