Code of Conduct

As educators and future educators, it is essential that we are mindful of the fact that we have chosen a vocation that calls on us to, among other things, be mindful of the safety and well-being of others. In the spirit of this calling, we ask that all TEECAeast participants work together to create an appropriate conference environment.

It is the policy of the TEECA Eastern Regional Conference that all participants — including students, advisers, staff, guests, vendors, and volunteers — will endorse and abide by this code of conduct, to ensure a welcoming, safe, and positive experience for all.

Policy-Consistent Expectations

• All TEECAeast participants should have an expectation throughout the conference that they will be treated with respect, collegiality, inclusiveness, and professionalism.

• All TEECAeast participants should feel assured that they will experience an environment that is welcoming and free from any form of discrimination, intimidation, harassment, bullying, or retaliation.

• In addition to the policies in this Code of Coduct, all TEECAeast participants are also expected to behave lawfully and follow the policies set forth by their own institution and faculty advisers, as well as by the conference hotel.

Policy-Inconsistent Behavior

All TEECAeast participants will avoid any inappropriate actions or statements based on individual characteristics such as age, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, nationality, political affiliation, ability status, educational background, or any other characteristic.

All TEECAeast participants will avoid any harassing or disruptive behavior. Disruptive or harassing behavior of any kind will not be tolerated.

• Harassment includes but is not limited to inappropriate or intimidating behavior and language, unwelcome jokes or comments, sexual harassment of any kind, unwanted touching or attention, offensive images, invasion of privacy, real or implied threat of physical harm, physical assault, stalking, homophobia, racism, or any behavior that discriminates against a group or class of people.

• Disruptive behavior includes but is not limited to unsportsmanlike conduct toward other participants (both students and advisers), damage or destruction of property,  disrespectful behavior toward hotel staff or food service personnel, disorderly activity under the influence of drugs or alcohol, excessive noise that disturbs other conference participants or other hotel guests, or any other behavior that reflects poorly on your institution and the TEECAeast Conference.

Guidance to Participants if Policy-Inconsistent Behavior is Experienced or Observed

All TEECAeast participants are called to foster a positive conference environment by modeling behavior consistent with this Code of Conduct policy. Participants are asked to look out for each other, as well as for themselves.

If, at any time during the conference, a TEECAeast a participant experiences behavior that violates of this Code of Conduct, or witnesses another participant experiencing such behavior, please immediately report the behavior to a conference organizer or other faculty adviser.

Consequences of Policy-Inconsistent Behavior

The conference organizers will review and act on violations of this Code of Conduct. Consequences for violations may range from verbal warnings, liability for property damage or destruction, disqualification from competitive events, ejection from the conference without refund, or notification of appropriate authorities. Retaliation for complaints of inappropriate conduct will not be tolerated.