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.
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.