Athletic Code of Conduct

Greenwood School District 50 has adopted a new Athletic Code of Conduct designed to raise expectations for student-athletes, provide clear standards of behavior, and ensure fairness in enforcing consequences.

The updated policy, which goes into effect immediately for the 2025–2026 school year, emphasizes that participation in athletics is a privilege, not a right. The new code establishes year-round accountability and outlines detailed expectations for conduct both on and off the field.

Superintendent Goodwin stated, “As Superintendent, I believe our student-athletes are role models and must hold themselves to the highest standards of conduct. When they step onto the court, the field, or into the community, they represent not just themselves but their schools, their teammates, and District 50. This new policy makes it clear that wearing our school’s colors comes with high expectations.”

The revised policy includes:

• Clear Standards of Behavior – Explicit guidelines addressing theft, vandalism, hazing, harassment, social media misuse, and substance violations.
  
  
• Year-Round Accountability – Rules apply 12 months a year, including holiday breaks and summer, regardless of location.
  
  
• Graduated Consequences – Ranging from reprimands to dismissal or permanent removal from athletics.
  
  
• Substance Use Penalties – First offense results in a 20% suspension of contests; a second offense results in dismissal for the school year.
  
  
• Criminal Infractions – Felony charges result in immediate suspension; misdemeanors may carry penalties up to dismissal.
  
  
• Formal Appeal Process – Students and families may submit written appeals within five days of a ruling.

“This update was made to protect our students and our schools,” Superintendent Goodwin added. “By setting clear expectations, we are giving our athletes the tools they need to succeed not only in competition but in life. Character does not take a season off, and this code reflects our belief that athletics should build responsibility, integrity, and respect.”

District officials noted that the policy was developed to provide consistency for athletes, coaches, and families, and to ensure equitable enforcement across all schools and athletic programs.

“Our student athletes, parents, and coaches deserve clarity and consistency,” said Superintendent Goodwin. “By laying out clear expectations and consequences, we ensure every student is treated fairly, and expectations are enforced across all teams and schools.”

• Explicit Standards: Defines unacceptable behaviors such as hazing, harassment, theft, vandalism, disrespect, social media misuse, and substance violations.
  
  
• Year-Round Accountability: Applies 12 months a year, including holidays and summer break, whether the conduct occurs on or off campus.
  
  
• Graduated Consequences: Provides clear levels of discipline, from reprimands to suspension, dismissal, or permanent denial of participation.
  
  
• Drug & Alcohol Rules: Tiered penalties (20% suspension for first offense; dismissal for second offense).
  
  
• Criminal Charges: Felonies: Immediate suspension; misdemeanors handled based on severity.
  
  
• Ejections from Contests: Joint review by SCHSL and school administration with possible additional consequences.