community standards

Exploration prides itself on creating an atmosphere that nurtures the diverse interests, needs, and backgrounds of our student and staff populations. Students attending Exploration have a unique opportunity to investigate a variety of new skills, talents, and interests within an environment structured for personal choice and growth. As with many personal freedoms, the liberty granted to students at Exploration carries with it limits and responsibilities. We expect students to uphold our community standards and to refrain from any behavior that jeopardizes the well-being of themselves or others at the Program.

In order to maintain a safe environment for everyone, the Senior Program has expectations and rules for student conduct. These are more fully expressed in the Student Handbook under the heading of “Major Rules.” This list is not meant to be exhaustive, but instead gives some examples of our standards and expectations. A student who violates a Major Rule, or whose conduct, in the sole discretion of Exploration School, Inc., warrants his or her leaving the Program, will be subject to immediate dismissal, with no refund of tuition or traveling expenses. Remaining in the presence of an open violation of a Major Rule may constitute a Major Rule violation; that is, if you are in the presence of another student who is breaking a Major Rule, it is treated as if you are breaking the rule yourself. Should a student violate a Major Rule or remain in the presence of an open violation of a Major Rule, students should expect to be dismissed. Some examples of conduct which are in violation of the Major Rules include:
  • Use, possession, or distribution of drugs, alcohol, cigarettes or tobacco is prohibited. This includes misuse of prescription or over-the-counter medication.

  • Use, possession, or distribution of weapons (actual or simulated), violence or threat of violence, hazing and harassment, misuse of computers and electronic communications, and bullying are prohibited.

  • Use, possession, or distribution of stolen property is prohibited. In addition, vandalism, damage, or the willful destruction of property is prohibited.

  • Students must adhere to the physical boundaries of the Program. This includes staying inside prescribed areas in New Haven, staying within the dormitories after evening check-in, and staying inside the boundaries established on trips.

  • Students must adhere to the no visitation policy governing single-gender spaces.

  • Any ignited flame indoors, including matches, candles, incense, or cigarettes is prohibited.

  • Students must conduct themselves with honesty and integrity, and with respect of their own well-being, as well as the well-being and rights of others.
In addition to the above, there are other rules and guidelines governing student conduct at the Program. You will receive an Student Handbook in the spring and you are responsible for reading it, knowing its contents, and following all Program rules and guidelines described in the Student Handbook. You are also responsible for following the rules and guidelines set by our staff during the course of the Program. Any questions or concerns about our community standards or rules should be brought to the Dean of Students.

Exploration not only forms a relationship with the student who attends the Program, but also with his or her parents or guardians. For the Program to work in a positive and safe way for our students, parents/guardians must be able to support our policies and procedures. Exploration School, Inc. reserves the right to dismiss a currently enrolled student if the student's parents/guardians are not cooperative and/or compliant with Exploration policies and procedures. In addition, Exploration reserves the right in subsequent summers to deny enrollment for similar reasons.

If you have any questions about our community standards, please contact our admissions office.


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