Professional Practices & Ethical Standards
Standards of Ethical Conduct
At Morning Star School, we uphold the highest ethical and professional standards in education. Our mission is to foster a learning environment based on respect, dignity, integrity, and excellence.
To download a printable PDF of our Standards of Ethical Conduct, click the button below.
Our Commitment to Students
Our educators and staff are dedicated to:
- Protecting students from harmful conditions that affect learning, health, or safety.
- Encouraging independent thought and diverse perspectives.
- Teaching subject matter with honesty and accuracy.
- Treating students with dignity, ensuring they are not subjected to discrimination, harassment, or undue embarrassment.
- Maintaining strict confidentiality of student information unless required by law.
Our Commitment to Professionalism
All faculty and staff at Morning Star School are expected to:
- Demonstrate honesty, fairness, and integrity in all professional dealings.
- Avoid discrimination based on race, religion, gender, disability, or background.
- Maintain a respectful, non-hostile working environment.
- Refrain from false or malicious statements about colleagues.
Training Requirement
All instructional personnel and administrators must complete training on the Standards of Ethical Conduct as a condition of employment.
Reporting Misconduct & Child Abuse
Morning Star School is committed to student safety. All employees and administrators have a legal and moral duty to report any misconduct that affects student health, safety, or welfare.
How to Report Misconduct.
Misconduct by School Employees
Report to: Elaine Shott, Principal
Call: 904-721-2144
Misconduct by School Administrators
Report to: Deacon Scott Conway, Superintendent of Schools
Call: 904-262-0668
Examples of misconduct
Obscene language, drug/alcohol use, discrimination, inappropriate behavior, cheating, testing violations, or physical aggression.
Legally sufficient allegations of educator misconduct will be reported to the Office of Professional Practices Services. Policies and procedures for reporting are posted in the front office, copy room, and teachers’ lounge.
[Click here] to report misconduct by personnel or administrators to the Diocese of St. Augustine.
Reporting Child Abuse, Abandonment, or Neglect
All employees and agents are legally required to report suspected child abuse, abandonment, or neglect.
Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-96-ABUSE
Online Reporting Form: Click here
Diocese of St. Augustine – Safe Environment Office: [Click here]
Reporting Child Abuse, Abandonment, or Neglect
- Physical Abuse: Unexplained bruises, burns, fear of adults, or aggressive behavior.
- Sexual Abuse: Difficulty walking/sitting, inappropriate sexual knowledge, fear of specific individuals.
- Neglect: Poor hygiene, frequent hunger, lack of supervision, untreated medical conditions.
Legal Protection for Reporters
- Any person reporting in good faith is immune from civil or criminal liability under Florida law (F.S. 39.203).
- Employers are also protected when sharing misconduct information, unless proven false by clear and convincing evidence (F.S. 768.095).
Non-Discrimination Policy
Morning Star School is committed to maintaining a safe, inclusive, and harassment-free learning environment.
- We do not tolerate discrimination based on race, ancestry, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or citizenship.
- This policy applies to all students, faculty, and staff and includes school grounds, events, and off-site assignments.
- Any student or parent who witnesses harassment or discrimination must report it immediately to the Principal or Diocese Superintendent.
Safe Spaces Statement
Morning Star School complies with Florida’s Safety in Private Spaces Act (F.S. 553.865).
Restrooms & Locker Rooms
Restrooms and changing facilities are designated exclusively for biological males or biological females, except for unisex facilities.
Any student who willfully enters the wrong facility and refuses to leave when asked will be subject to disciplinary action unless an exception applies.
Have a Question?
Whether you're exploring our school for the first time or you're a current family with questions, we’re just a message away. At Morning Star School, we’re committed to guiding you with care, faith, and clarity every step of the way.