Article XIII. RULES OF STUDENT DISCIPLINE

STCFI is committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and productive learning environment. To achieve this, all students are expected to adhere to the following Code of Conduct. The practices outlined below are strictly prohibited on campus, and any violations will result in corresponding sanctions, which may include disciplinary action, suspension, or expulsion, depending on the severity of the offense.

Section 1. Drunkenness and Drug Abuse

To maintain a safe, healthy, and conducive learning environment, STCFI strictly prohibits any form of drunkenness and drug abuse on campus. Adherence to the following guidelines is mandatory for all students. Violations of these rules will result in severe disciplinary actions, including possible suspension or expulsion. The specifics of these prohibited practices are as follows:

1. Prohibited Substances:

Illegal Drugs: The use, possession, or distribution of any illegal drugs, including but not limited to marijuana, shabu (methamphetamine), hallucinogens (e.g., LSD, magic mushrooms), and other controlled substances is strictly forbidden on school premises. This includes carrying any form of illegal drugs in bags, lockers, or personal belongings.
Prescription Drugs: The use or possession of prescription drugs not prescribed to the individual student, especially those containing banned substances (e.g., certain painkillers, stimulants), is prohibited. Students are required to submit a doctor's note to the school administration if they need to carry and use prescribed medication.
Over-the-Counter Medications: The possession or use of over-the-counter medications that contain banned substances, such as cough syrups with codeine or other narcotics, is also prohibited. Students must ensure that they only use these medications under proper medical supervision.

2. Alcohol Use:

On Campus: Students are not allowed to consume, possess, or distribute alcoholic beverages on school property under any circumstances. This includes classrooms, dormitories, cafeterias, school grounds, and any school-sponsored events.
Influence of Alcohol: Entering the campus or attending any school-related activities while under the influence of alcohol is strictly forbidden. This applies to all students, whether they are on school premises, during school hours, or representing the school at any external event.
In School Uniform: Students must not consume alcohol or appear intoxicated while wearing the school uniform, regardless of whether they are on or off-campus. The school uniform represents the institution, and inappropriate behavior while wearing it reflects poorly on the entire school community.

3. Smoking and Related Activities:

Smoking Prohibition: Smoking cigarettes, vaping, or using any tobacco products is strictly prohibited on school property. This ban applies to all indoor and outdoor areas of the campus, including classrooms, restrooms, hallways, and open spaces.S
In School Uniform: Engaging in smoking or using any tobacco products while wearing the school uniform is prohibited. Students are not allowed to be seen smoking or holding tobacco products while in uniform, whether they are on campus or outside school grounds.

4. Engaging in Related Activities:

Paraphernalia: The possession of drug-related paraphernalia, such as pipes, bongs, rolling papers, and e-cigarettes, is prohibited on school premises. These items are not permitted in student lockers, bags, or personal areas.
Promotion of Substance Use: Any form of promoting, encouraging, or normalizing the use of alcohol, drugs, or tobacco products is prohibited. This includes wearing clothing, accessories, or using items that display images or slogans related to substance use.

Section 2. Forgery and Misuse of Documents

STCFI places a high value on honesty, integrity, and academic excellence. To maintain these standards, any form of forgery, misuse of documents, cheating, or theft is strictly prohibited. Violations will result in serious disciplinary actions, which could include suspension, expulsion, or legal action. Below are the detailed policies regarding forgery, misuse of documents, and related offenses:

1. Forgery and Tampering with Documents:

School Documents: The creation, alteration, or use of false school documents is strictly prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, transcripts, report cards, admission forms, certificates and letters of recommendation. Students found guilty of forging these documents will face severe disciplinary measures.
Academic Records: Altering grades, exam scores, or any other academic records through forgery or unauthorized access is a serious offense. This includes hacking into the school’s database or using someone else’s login credentials to alter information.
Transfer Credentials: Forging or tampering with transfer credentials, such as those required for transferring to another school or educational institution, is prohibited. Students must provide accurate and truthful information during transfer processes.
Clearance Forms:Tampering with or forging clearance forms, which are vital for completing academic or administrative processes, is strictly forbidden. Students are required to obtain legitimate signatures and ensure the authenticity of the document. Violation of this rule will lead to disciplinary consequences.

2. Misuse of School Identification:

Tampering with IDs: Forging, altering, or tampering with school identification cards (IDs) is strictly forbidden. This includes changing the photo, name, expiration date, or any other details on the ID card.
Lending or Borrowing IDs: Students are prohibited from lending their school ID to another person or borrowing another student’s ID. Each student is responsible for their own ID, which serves as a key security measure for accessing school facilities and services.
Exemption IDs: Misuse of exemption IDs, such as those issued for special access or privileges, is prohibited. Students must not lend or borrow these IDs under any circumstances. Misuse of such IDs can lead to immediate revocation of the exemption and further disciplinary action.

3. Cheating and Academic Dishonesty:

Examinations and Tests: Cheating in any form during examinations, quizzes, or tests is strictly prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, copying from another student’s paper, using unauthorized notes or devices, and communicating with others during the test.
Assignments and Projects: Plagiarism or copying someone else’s work and presenting it as one’s own is considered cheating. All assignments, projects, and research papers must be the original work of the student, with proper citations and references.
Collusion: Engaging in collusion with other students to cheat or gain unfair academic advantage is prohibited. This includes sharing answers, allowing others to copy one’s work, or collaborating on assignments meant to be completed individually.

4. Theft and Stealing:

School Property: Theft of school property, such as books, equipment, supplies, or any other items belonging to the institution, is strictly prohibited. Students found stealing school property will face disciplinary action and may be required to make restitution.
Personal Property: Stealing personal belongings of other students, faculty, or staff is not tolerated. This includes, but is not limited to, items such as wallets, bags, electronics, and personal documents. The school will take appropriate disciplinary action, and stolen items must be returned or replaced.
Misappropriation of Funds: Any form of theft involving school funds, such as embezzling money from student organizations, fundraisers, or school events, is strictly prohibited and will result in severe disciplinary action, including possible referral to law enforcement.

Section 3. Vandalism

STCFI is committed to maintaining a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for all students, faculty, staff, and visitors. Vandalism disrupts this environment and shows a lack of respect for the school community. Therefore, any acts of vandalism are strictly prohibited and will result in serious disciplinary actions. Below are the detailed guidelines and examples of what constitutes vandalism and the consequences of such actions:

1. Willful or Malicious Destruction of School Property:

Any intentional act that causes damage to school property, whether physical or digital, is considered vandalism. This includes actions that result in the destruction, alteration, or impairment of the property.
Examples: Breaking windows, damaging doors, smashing equipment (computers, projectors, lab equipment), or intentionally causing damage to school vehicles or other infrastructure.

2. Writing Graffiti on School Buildings:

Writing, painting, or scratching graffiti on any part of the school’s buildings, walls, bathrooms, or other surfaces is strictly forbidden. Graffiti not only defaces school property but also can create an unwelcoming environment.
This includes, but is not limited to, spray-painting, drawing, etching, or carving words, symbols, images, or slogans on any surface within the school premises.

3. Unauthorized Removal of Official Notices and Posters:

The school places notices, announcements, posters, and other important information on designated bulletin boards to keep students and staff informed. Removing or tampering with these notices without authorization is prohibited.
Unauthorized removal can lead to misinformation, confusion, and disruption of school activities or events. Students must respect these communications and leave them undisturbed.

4. Improper Disposal of Waste:

Disposing of trash, food wrappers, bottles, or any other waste by throwing it on the floor, in hallways, or outside designated trash bins is prohibited. Littering shows a lack of respect for the school environment and contributes to pollution and unsanitary conditions.
Spitting on school property, including in hallways, classrooms, sports facilities, and other areas, is strictly prohibited. This behavior is unhygienic and disrespectful.

5. Destruction or Defacement of Classroom Furniture and Fixtures:

Students are expected to treat classroom furniture, such as desks, chairs, and tables, with care. Writing on, carving into, or otherwise damaging these items is considered vandalism.
This includes any fixed items within the school, such as light fixtures, bulletin boards, lockers, and doors. Damaging or defacing these items disrupts the learning environment and can lead to costly repairs.

6. Damage to Educational Resources:

Damaging, tearing pages from, or marking on library books, textbooks, and other educational resources is strictly prohibited. These resources are for the benefit of all students, and their preservation is essential.
Mishandling or purposefully damaging laboratory equipment, chemicals, or other materials used in scientific studies is considered a serious offense. Such actions not only waste valuable resources but also pose safety risks.

Section 4. Defamation and Obstruction

STCFI is committed to fostering a respectful, productive, and harmonious environment for all its community members. Defamation and obstruction disrupt this environment, negatively impacting the learning and working atmosphere. Therefore, any actions that defame others or obstruct school activities are strictly prohibited. The following outlines what constitutes defamation and obstruction, and the consequences for engaging in such behavior:

Making or Circulating Defamatory Information:
- Defamation involves making false or malicious statements that harm the reputation of individuals or the institution. This can include spreading rumors, slander, or libel about the school, its staff, faculty members, or students.
- Examples:
  - Verbal Defamation: Spreading false rumors or making harmful statements about a teacher, student, or staff member that damage their reputation.
  - Written Defamation: Posting defamatory comments on social media platforms, sending malicious emails or messages, or writing defamatory content on school forums or notice boards.
Possessing or Distributing Subversive or Libelous Materials:
- Possession, creation, or distribution of materials that are subversive or libelous is prohibited. Subversive materials are those intended to undermine or disrupt the authority or functioning of the school. Libelous materials contain false statements that damage someone's reputation.
- Examples:
  - Subversive Materials: Flyers, pamphlets, or digital content that encourage rebellion against school policies, incite unrest, or promote illegal activities.
  - Libelous Content: Any written material that falsely accuses individuals of misconduct, incompetence, or unethical behavior.
Obstructing or Disrupting Teaching, Administrative Work, or Other School Activities:
- Any behavior that intentionally disrupts or hinders the normal operations of the school, including teaching, administrative tasks, or organized activities, is considered obstruction.
- Examples:
  - Classroom Disruption: Interrupting a teacher during a lesson, causing distractions that prevent others from learning, or using electronic devices inappropriately during class.
  - Administrative Obstruction: Interfering with the work of school administrators, such as by refusing to follow procedures, or causing disturbances in administrative offices.
Loitering in Corridors, Hallways, or Stairways During Classes:
- Loitering refers to hanging around or lingering in areas without a legitimate purpose, especially during times when students should be in class.
- Examples:
  - Corridor Loitering: Standing in hallways, blocking traffic flow, or engaging in loud conversations that disrupt ongoing classes.
  - Stairway Loitering: Sitting on or blocking stairways, preventing easy movement and posing safety hazards.
Creating Disturbances within the School Premises:
- Creating disturbances involves any behavior that disrupts the peace and order of the school environment. This includes making excessive noise, engaging in disruptive actions, or behaving in a manner that draws unnecessary attention.
- Examples:
  - Excessive Noise: Shouting, playing loud music, or engaging in noisy activities in areas designated for quiet study, such as the library or study rooms.
  - Disruptive Reactions: Overreacting to situations, causing scenes, or behaving in a way that disrupts the normal flow of activities within the school.

Section 5. Social Media Misrepresentation and Fraudulent Identity

Creating a false identity on social media, impersonating another person (student, faculty, staff, or any member of the school community), and disseminating misleading or harmful information are strictly prohibited. Such acts undermine trust, violate ethical standards, and can cause reputational damage to individuals and the institution. The following are considered to be prohibited acts:

Impersonation. Creating a social media account, email, or online profile that falsely represents another individual, whether a student, teacher, staff member, or any affiliated person.
Dissemination of False Information. Posting, messaging, or sharing fabricated, misleading, or malicious content under a false or real identity with the intent to deceive, manipulate, or cause harm.
Harassment and Defamation. Using a fake identity to send offensive, defamatory, or threatening messages to individuals or groups within or outside the school.
Unauthorized Use of School Name and Logo. Using the school’s name, logo, or related branding in a misleading manner to spread false information or conduct unauthorized activities.
Failure to Report Violations. Any student who becomes aware of a classmate or peer engaging in social media misrepresentation, fraudulent identity use, or online misconduct but does not report it to school authorities will be considered complicit in the violation.

The school reserves the right to investigate all reported cases of social media misrepresentation and take appropriate disciplinary action to uphold integrity, safety, and ethical digital behavior among students.

Section 6. Unauthorized Use of the School’s Name and False Information for Financial Gain

Students are strictly prohibited from misusing the school’s name, misrepresenting school-related activities, or spreading false information to parents, guardians or other people for personal financial gain. Any attempt to collect money under false pretenses using the school as a reason is a serious violation of ethical conduct and school policies. The following are considered to be prohibited acts:

Unauthorized Use of the School’s Name:
- Claiming that an activity, trip, or event is school-sanctioned when it is not.
- Using the school’s name, logo, or official documents without proper approval.
False Information for Financial Gain:
- Providing misleading or fabricated information to parents, guardians or other people about school-related expenses.
- Soliciting money from parents, guardians or other people under the false pretense of needing funds for a school activity, trip, or project.
Failure to Report Violations:
- Any student who has knowledge of another student engaging in unauthorized use of the school’s name or soliciting money through false information but fails to report it to school authorities will be considered complicit in the violation.

Section 7. Physical Assault and Threats

STCFI is dedicated to providing a safe and secure environment for all students, staff, and visitors. Acts of violence, threats, or any behavior that endangers the well-being of individuals are strictly prohibited. This policy outlines the types of physical assault and threats that are not tolerated within the school premises, along with the consequences of such actions.

1. Inflicting Physical Harm on Any Person within the School Premises, Including Hazing:

Physical harm refers to any act that causes physical injury or pain to another person. Hazing includes any initiation or activity that subjects an individual to physical abuse, humiliation, or harassment.
Examples:
- Physical Assault: Hitting, punching, kicking, or any form of physical attack on another person.
- Hazing: Forcing students to participate in physically painful or humiliating activities as a form of initiation into a group, team, or organization.

2. Engaging in Verbal Altercations or Slander:

Verbal altercations involve arguing, shouting, or using offensive language in a confrontational manner. Slander refers to making false spoken statements that damage someone’s reputation.
Examples:
- Verbal Altercations: Yelling insults, engaging in shouting matches, or using aggressive language towards others.
- Slander: Spreading false and harmful statements about another individual, which could lead to damage to their reputation or emotional distress.

3. Participating in Brawls or Fistfights:

A brawl or fistfight involves a physical fight between two or more individuals. It typically includes exchanging punches, kicks, or other forms of physical combat.
Examples:
- Brawls: Group fights that involve multiple students engaging in physical combat, often in common areas such as hallways, cafeterias, or playgrounds.
- Fistfights: Physical fights between two individuals, often resulting from personal disputes or conflicts.

4. Threatening or Using Deadly Weapons within the School:

A deadly weapon is any object capable of causing death or serious bodily harm. Threatening involves using language, gestures, or actions that suggest an intention to cause physical harm.
Examples:
- Threatening with Weapons: Displaying or brandishing knives, firearms, or any object intended to intimidate or harm others.
- Using Weapons: Any attempt to use a weapon to injure, intimidate, or threaten another person.

Section 8. Gambling and Smoking

STCFI is committed to promoting a healthy, productive, and distraction-free learning environment. Engaging in activities such as gambling and smoking is strictly prohibited on school premises. These behaviors are not only illegal and harmful to health but also undermine the moral and ethical standards upheld by the school community. This section outlines the specific rules regarding gambling and smoking, along with the consequences for violations.

1. Engaging in Gambling Activities on School Premises

Gambling refers to participating in games of chance or betting, where money or other valuables are wagered with the hope of winning more. This includes card games, sports betting, lotteries, and any other form of betting or wagering.
Examples:
- Card Games: Playing card games like poker, blackjack, or any other game for money or valuables.
- Sports Betting: Placing bets on sports events, whether they are local or international, through any medium including cash, online platforms, or physical betting slips.
- Lotteries and Raffles: Organizing or participating in lotteries, raffles, or any game of chance where money is exchanged for the chance to win a prize.
- Online Gambling: Accessing gambling websites or apps via school computers, personal devices, or the school’s internet connection.

2. Smoking Anywhere Within School Property

Smoking refers to the act of inhaling and exhaling smoke from tobacco or any other substance, including the use of cigarettes, e-cigarettes, vaping devices, cigars, or pipes. It also covers the possession of smoking paraphernalia on school grounds.
Examples:
- Cigarettes and Cigars: Smoking traditional tobacco products such as cigarettes or cigars within any part of the school premises, including classrooms, restrooms, corridors, and outdoor areas.
- E-Cigarettes and Vaping: Using electronic nicotine delivery systems (e-cigarettes, vaping pens) that produce vapor instead of smoke. These devices are also prohibited, regardless of whether they contain nicotine.
- Smoking in Uniform: Smoking while wearing the school uniform, even if off-campus, as it reflects on the school's reputation and violates school policies.
- Possession of Smoking Materials: Possessing cigarettes, e-cigarettes, lighters, or any smoking-related materials on school property.

Section 9. Bribery

Bribery undermines the integrity of the educational process and the values upheld by STCFI. The following policies are established to prevent any form of bribery and to ensure a fair and honest academic environment:

1. Prohibition of Bribery to Influence Grades

Any form of bribery or attempted bribery, where students offer or attempt to offer gifts, money, services, or other incentives to teachers, staff, or administrators to influence their grades or academic outcomes, is strictly prohibited. This includes both direct offers and indirect suggestions or insinuations.
Bribery can take various forms, including:
- Offering cash or expensive gifts to a teacher in exchange for a higher grade.
- Promising favors or services (e.g., personal errands, free services) to staff in return for academic leniency.
- Offering non-material benefits, such as social connections or career opportunities, to influence academic evaluations.

2. Prohibition of Accepting or Soliciting Bribes

Teachers, staff, and administrators are strictly prohibited from accepting or soliciting any form of bribes from students or their families. This includes requesting gifts, money, or favors in exchange for altering grades, exam scores, attendance records, or any other academic assessment.
Soliciting bribes by explicitly asking for or implying a need for gifts, money, or services in exchange for academic favors is considered a severe violation of ethical standards. Examples include:
- Hinting at the need for a "gift" to secure a better grade.
- Suggesting that extra credit or special consideration will be given in exchange for personal favors or gifts.

3. Reporting and Handling Instances of Bribery

Any student, teacher, or staff member who is aware of or involved in an act of bribery is required to report the incident immediately to the school administration. This includes situations where:
- A student is approached by another student or individual offering bribes.
- A teacher or staff member is offered a bribe by a student or their family.
- A teacher or staff member solicits or accepts a bribe.

To encourage reporting, STCFI will provide confidential channels for reporting bribery incidents. Reports can be made anonymously if necessary, and the identity of the reporter will be protected to the fullest extent possible.
Upon receiving a report of bribery, the school administration will conduct a thorough investigation to verify the facts. If evidence of bribery is found:
- For Students: Disciplinary actions will include, but are not limited to, suspension, expulsion, and notification of the student's guardians. A record of the incident will be kept in the student's permanent file.
- For Teachers/Staff: Disciplinary actions will include suspension, termination of employment, and potential legal consequences. The incident will be reported to the appropriate educational authorities and may lead to professional disqualification or sanctions.

4. Educating the School Community on Bribery

STCFI will provide regular training sessions for students, teachers, and staff on the importance of academic integrity, the ethical standards expected, and the dangers of engaging in bribery. These sessions will include:
- Definitions and examples of bribery.
- The long-term consequences of bribery for individuals and the school community.
- The correct procedures for reporting suspected bribery.

The school will actively promote a culture of honesty and integrity, where achievements are based on merit and hard work. Posters, campaigns, and discussions will be used to reinforce the message that bribery has no place at STCFI.

5. Commitment to a Fair and Honest Academic Environment

STCFI maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards bribery. Any attempt to engage in bribery will be met with strict and immediate disciplinary action. This policy applies equally to students, teachers, and all staff members.
Every member of the STCFI community has a role to play in upholding the integrity of the school. By refusing to engage in or tolerate bribery, we ensure that all students have an equal opportunity to succeed based on their merit, effort, and dedication.

Section 10. Non-Compliance and Misconduct

STCFI maintains a strict code of conduct to ensure a respectful and orderly learning environment. Non-compliance and misconduct undermine this goal and are not tolerated. This section outlines the prohibited behaviors related to non-compliance with authority and misconduct, detailing the expectations for student behavior and the consequences of violating these standards.

1. Ignoring or Rejecting Summons from Faculty or Staff

Ignoring or rejecting summons refers to the act of failing to respond to or intentionally avoiding requests, instructions, or orders given by faculty or staff members. This includes not attending scheduled meetings, disciplinary hearings, or failing to comply with direct instructions.
Examples:
- Failing to Attend Meetings: Not showing up for a scheduled meeting with a teacher, counselor, or administrator when summoned for academic or disciplinary reasons.
- Avoiding Direct Orders: Refusing to follow a teacher’s instructions in class or disregarding requests made by staff for cooperation in school activities.
- Ignoring Written Notices: Not responding to written summons or notices left in lockers, classrooms, or sent via email.

2. Tampering with Board Announcements or Information

Tampering refers to the unauthorized alteration, removal, or destruction of official school announcements, notices, or any posted information on bulletin boards or digital platforms.
Examples:
- Alteration of Notices: Changing the content of official announcements, such as dates, times, or other important details.
- Removal of Official Information: Taking down notices, posters, or other informational material without authorization.
- Destruction of Posted Materials: Damaging or defacing announcements, such as tearing, scribbling, or writing over them.

3. Posting False, Defamatory, or Profane Language on Bulletin Boards

Posting false information, defamatory statements, or using profane language on school bulletin boards or any public space within the school premises is strictly prohibited. This includes both physical and digital platforms.
Examples:
- False Information: Posting misleading or incorrect information that can cause confusion or harm to the school community.
- Defamatory Statements: Writing or posting statements that harm the reputation of the school, its staff, or students.
- Profane Language: Using vulgar, offensive, or obscene language in public postings.

4. Committing Immoral Acts, Including Indecent Exposure, Obscene Behavior, or Possession of Pornographic Materials

Immoral acts refer to behaviors that violate societal and school moral standards, including acts of indecent exposure, engaging in obscene behavior, or possessing, distributing, or displaying pornographic materials.
Examples:
- Indecent Exposure: Exposing one’s private parts in public, on school grounds, or in a manner that is offensive and inappropriate.
- Obscene Behavior: Engaging in lewd acts, gestures, or conversations that are sexually explicit or offensive.
- Possession of Pornographic Materials: Having or sharing explicit sexual content, whether in physical form, on electronic devices, or through online platforms.

5. Molesting or Engaging in Vulgar Acts Towards Students, Staff, or Faculty

Molesting or engaging in vulgar acts refers to any form of sexual harassment, inappropriate touching, or conduct that is sexually suggestive or offensive. This includes making vulgar comments, unwanted physical contact, or displaying sexually explicit behavior.
Examples:
- Sexual Harassment: Making unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.
- Inappropriate Touching: Unwanted physical contact such as groping, fondling, or touching someone inappropriately.
- Vulgar Acts: Engaging in behaviors or using language that is sexually explicit, suggestive, or offensive to others.

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