Do you have any rules at all?

It all boils down to this: respect yourself, other people and this place; no drugs or violence.

The rules are what staff and students think we need for Holden to be a safe place for people. The rules ought to benefit the school as a whole and everyone in it. If there’s a conflict between individual and group well-being, the group takes precedence. These are working rules and are subject to change as we hammer out better ones. This is a summary of the most important rules.

Respect

I will show respect for the people here, for myself and for the place. Everyone here has the right to be themselves without being hassled.

Sexually Appropriate Behavior

I will avoid any type of sexual harassment, including sexist/homophobic language that makes people feel uncomfortable.

Equal Treatment

I will treat people with equality, abstaining from racist or sexist remarks, epithets or language that perpetuates racism or makes people feel uncomfortable. The same goes for peoples’ religious preferences.

Peaceful Behavior

I will interact with others in a harmonious manner that contributes to the safe atmosphere of our community. I will not fight, push or playfight. I will not verbally abuse or harass others. I will not interrupt, dominate or yell in or out of classes. Everyone has the right to feel safe at Holden.

Lying

I won’t lie to or break trust with staff. I don’t have to tell staff anything I don’t want to, and I don’t have to name names. It’s better to be silent than to lie.

Drugs

I won’t use or deal drugs or alcohol on school grounds, in Orinda, or on field trips. Holden does not condone drug or alcohol use anywhere at any time.

Abuse

Parents and students will not be physically or psychologically abusive to each other.

Sanctions

I understand the school determines sanctions for rule-breaking, and will do so in as positive a spirit as possible, with suspension or expulsion only as last resorts. Students and parents may appeal any sanctions.

Changing the Rules

Rather than break rules I don’t like, I’ll work to change them.