Code of Conduct for Conference and Event Participants

This Code of Conduct applies to all participants in the Association of Schools and Colleges (ASCO) conferences and events. It aims to ensure a positive and enjoyable intellectual, cultural, and social experience for all.

This code expresses values that are already fundamental to all participants. ASCOs conferences and events aim to be inclusive and embrace diversity in all its forms.

The ASCO welcomes participants regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, color, religion, national origin, gender identity and expression, age, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristics. Therefore, this Conference Code of Conduct sets forth expectations for the conduct of all participants at an ASCO conference or event. Participants are expected, both inside and outside of conferences and events, to express themselves in considerate and respectful ways to others. Equally, they are expected to respond with courtesy and respect to others’ opinions. “Participant” refers to anyone present at an ASCO conference, event, or activity and includes speakers, vendors, venue staff, media representatives, exhibitors, sponsors, volunteers, and all other attendees.

Expectations

Be aware of your surroundings

Be mindful of others around you to ensure a great experience for your fellow participants.

Be kind and considerate

Respect each person and common courtesy rules for personal interaction.

Follow the rules

Obey the rules and regulations.

Behave appropriately

Refrain from displaying any demeaning, harassing, aggressive, or intimidating materials or behavior. Use welcoming and inclusive language and be respectful of differing viewpoints and experiences.

Be professional

Dress and behave in a professional manner. Each attendee is responsible for their own behavior and actions.

Respect property

Do not damage private or communal property.

Report inappropriate behavior

Promptly report any behavior that makes you or others feel uncomfortable to ASCOs Chief Executive Officer & Executive Vice President Director (Dawn Mancuso) at dmancuso@opted.org.

Inappropriate behavior—harassment, aggression, and intimidation

• Harassment, aggression, and intimidation are hurtful and interfere with other people’s experiences and participation in our community. These behaviors are inappropriate and unacceptable. Be specifically mindful to avoid behaviors that are inappropriate in regards to: race, color, creed, gender (including pregnancy, perceived pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), gender identity, religion (including religious dress and grooming), marital status, domestic partner status, genetic information, age, national origin or ancestry, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local laws.
  
  
• Inappropriate behavior can take many forms, such as: slurs; jokes; derogatory statements; foul or obscene language; offensive clothing; nudity; leering; stalking; staring; gestures; pictures, drawings or cartoons; violating personal space by impeding or blocking another person's movement or otherwise physically interfering with them; harassing photography or recordings; unwanted or offensive letters or poems; offensive email or voicemail messages; social media postings; or violence, threats of violence, or violent language directed or against another person.

Consequences of inappropriate behavior

Inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated. If you are asked to stop behaving inappropriately, you should comply immediately. If you see or are the target of inappropriate behavior or language, please email jrubin@opted.org, and we will take appropriate action to ensure the event maintains a safe and constructive environment. Please include your name, what behavior you witnessed, and where the conduct took place.

The consequences of such behavior may include but not be limited to the following:

• Attendees will be immediately removed from the event.
• Inappropriate content will be removed.
• Access to future ASCO events will be limited/denied.

We are confident that most participants are fully supportive of the principles embodied in this code and that none will wish to be passive bystanders while abuse or bullying or harassment takes place. We call on all participants to actively support those subjected to unacceptable behavior, challenge those guilty of it, and support the conference organizers to make this conference a positive, rewarding, and enjoyable experience for all.

If you are subjected to unacceptable or offensive behavior, witness such behavior, or have any other similar concerns, please notify ASCOs Chief Executive Officer & Executive Vice President Director Dawn Mancuso (dmancuso@opted.org) immediately.