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Code of Conduct

INTRODUCTION

This Code of Conduct is intended to support all participants in FIRST Chesapeake activities by setting clear expectations for behavior, ensuring a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment.

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Additionally, FIRST Chesapeake encourages all participants to read the full Youth Protection Policy, detailed here.

THE CODE

Exhibit Gracious Professionalism®

  • Always exhibit Gracious Professionalism®, which encourages high-quality work, values others, and promotes respect within the community. This ethos is fundamental to fostering a competitive yet cooperative environment.
     

Ensure Safety

  • Prioritize the safety of all participants. Follow public health guidelines related to safety, hygiene, and communicable illnesses, including adhering to specific protocols at in-person events.
     

Prohibit Inappropriate Behavior

  • Avoid behavior that is inappropriate, off-topic, disruptive, abusive, or illegal. This includes, but is not limited to:

    • Violations of FIRST Chesapeake’s policies or protocols, especially those concerning health and safety.

    • Any form of written, verbal, or physical abuse or threats.

    • Illegal or disruptive activity.

    • The use of derogatory or discriminatory language, gestures, or actions.

    • Any form of harassment, racism, sexism, or other targeted comments which may violate local, state, or federal laws or cause harm to another participant.
       

Reporting and Response

  • Report any observed or experienced violations via designated reporting channels provided by FIRST Chesapeake. Immediate reporting helps address issues swiftly and effectively.

  • FIRST requires that all safety concerns and non-medical incidents be reported to FIRST Chesapeake and to FIRST Headquarters within 48 hours – an online non-medical incident report form is provided. If there is uncertainty about filing a report, the FIRST Youth Protection Department should be contacted for guidance. The reporter may choose to remain anonymous; however, the more facts the FIRST Youth Protection Department has, the better it will be able to support an appropriate solution.

  • FIRST Chesapeake reserves the right to take appropriate action against any individual(s) or group(s) that fails to meet these standards, including revoking credentials without refund.
     

Digital and Online Conduct

  • This Code of Conduct extends to all digital interactions associated with FIRST Chesapeake, including communications through mobile apps, social media, and any online platforms used during events.
     

Contact and Resources

  • For non-emergency concerns, contact the designated FIRST Chesapeake support channels. For emergencies, contact local law enforcement.

  • FIRST Chesapeake partners with organizations to provide peer-to-peer, in-person, and online emotional and professional support services. Visit our Health & Safety resources page for more information.
     

Legal Compliance

  • All suspected violations of the law should be reported to local law enforcement. For emergencies, immediately dial 9-1-1.

 

By participating in FIRST Chesapeake events and activities, you agree to abide by these standards of conduct, ensuring a positive and enriching experience for all involved.

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