Standards of Ethical Conduct
For Instructional Personnel, Educational Support Employees, and School Administrators
At Riverside Christian School, we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of ethical conduct. These standards reflect our dedication to student well-being, professional integrity, and a safe, respectful learning environment for all.
1. Core Values
We affirm the worth and dignity of every individual and are committed to:
The pursuit of truth
Devotion to excellence
The acquisition of knowledge
The development of responsible citizenship
These values are supported by a learning environment that upholds freedom to teach and learn, along with equal opportunity for all.
2. Commitment to Students
Our primary responsibility is the student and the development of each student’s full potential. All employees are expected to:
Demonstrate professional integrity
Exercise sound judgment
Pursue continual professional growth
3. Responsibilities Toward Students
All instructional personnel shall:
Maintain a safe and supportive environment, protecting students from conditions harmful to their physical, mental, or emotional well-being
Encourage independent thinking and learning
Provide access to diverse and appropriate perspectives
Present subject matter accurately and without intentional distortion
Treat students with dignity, avoiding embarrassment or disparagement
Respect and uphold students’ legal rights
Refrain from harassment or discrimination of any kind and actively protect students from such behavior
Avoid any exploitation of the student-teacher relationship
Maintain confidentiality of student information unless disclosure is required or appropriate by law
4. Professional Conduct and Responsibilities
All employees are expected to uphold the trust placed in them by students, families, colleagues, and the community by:
Demonstrating honesty and integrity in all professional interactions
Treating colleagues fairly and without discrimination
Respecting the civil and professional rights of others
Maintaining a workplace free from harassment, intimidation, or discrimination
Refraining from making false or malicious statements about colleagues
Student Protection:
Employees and volunteers must never engage in or tolerate inappropriate behavior, including grooming. Any suspicious behavior, policy violations, or concerns must be reported immediately.
5. Reporting Misconduct
All employees have a duty to report misconduct that may affect the health, safety, or welfare of a student.
To report misconduct:
Ginny Keith (Principal): (352) 463-1569 or (352) 221-4951
Jody Robertson: (352) 332-1493 or (352) 538-3373
Administrator misconduct: Bill Keith, Jr.: (352) 332-9731 or (352) 665-6525
Reports will be evaluated to determine if notification to the Department of Children and Families (DCF) or law enforcement is required.
6. Training Requirement
All instructional personnel, support staff, and administrators are required to complete training on these ethical standards as a condition of employment.
7. Mandatory Reporting of Abuse
All employees and agents are legally required to report any suspected or known cases of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect.
Call: 1-800-96-ABUSE
Online: https://www.myflfamilies.com/services/abuse
Failure to report may result in legal consequences.
8. Recognizing Signs of Abuse
Employees should remain vigilant for signs of abuse, including:
Physical Abuse: Unexplained injuries, fearfulness, withdrawal, or aggression
Sexual Abuse: Inappropriate knowledge or behavior, physical discomfort, or fear of specific individuals
Neglect: Poor hygiene, lack of supervision, hunger, or unmet medical needs
A pattern of concerning signs should always be reported.
9. Legal Protections
Individuals who report suspected abuse in good faith are protected from civil or criminal liability under Florida law. Similarly, employers who share truthful information about employees are protected from liability under applicable statutes.
10. Reporting Educator Misconduct
Concerns regarding educator conduct should be directed to:
Principal Ginny Keith: (352) 221-4951
Pastor Bill Keith: (352) 332-9731
