Special Olympics Ontario School Programs Code of Conduct
Note: All participating schools, educators, coaches, athletes, volunteers, and spectators involved in Special Olympics Ontario Unified Champion Schools programming are expected to adhere to the Special Olympics Canada (SOC) Code of Conduct and Ethics as well as the principles outlined within the SOO School Programs Code of Conduct.
In addition to these standards, UCS programs operate within the educational frameworks of local school boards and individual school policies. Schools and school boards retain the right to apply their own codes of conduct and administrative protocols, and in all cases, the minimum standards set by the school board or school administration will supersede those of SOO. It is the responsibility of all UCS participants to understand and respect the policies of their educational institutions while engaging in UCS events and activities.
All Special Olympics Ontario school program events, including but not limited to school qualifiers and championships, are subject to the following codes of conduct and the expectations outlined below..
B. Coach Code of Conduct
Note a Coach: A coach is defined as any school representative who is affiliated with the team, including but not limited to other teachers, educational assistants, and support staff.
The Code of Conduct is designed to assist each coach in abiding by the mission and philosophy of Special Olympics Ontario. Each teacher-coach is responsible for preparing their athletes for the conduct expected of them during participation in Special Olympics events. For the duration of their absence from home or school, the teacher-coach is in charge of their students’ conduct, safety, support and supervision. The procedures outlined in this code of conduct will also ensure coaches/teachers/educational assistants will be treated with respect and openness. Any teacher or coach who does not follow this Code of Conduct can be prohibited from participating in any Special Olympics training or competition event.
Each Coach, Teacher or Support Staff Member will adhere to the following:
1. During play, coaches and support staff cannot participate in the competition in any way beyond physically supporting individuals who need one-on-one support or guidance to compete (cannot participate in active play).
2. Ensure that accurate skill assessment scores and competition stream classifications are provided for the entry of a team or athlete into any event.
3. Ensuring the meaningful involvement of all players in the game.
4. Ensuring that unified partners do not dominate games.
5. Review and know each athlete’s medical forms, possible accommodations, and medications, and be aware of any limitations on that athlete’s participation.
6. Ensure each athlete performs to the best of their ability at all qualifiers and championships in accordance with the Official Special Olympics Sports Rules.
7. Display control, respect, dignity and professionalism to all involved in the sport (athletes, coaches, opponents, officials, administrators, parents, spectators, media, etc.).
8. Treat everyone equally regardless of sex, ethnic origin, religion or ability.
9. Respect the rights, dignity and worth of athletes, coaches, other volunteers, friends and spectators in Special Olympics.
10. Be a positive role model for the athletes
11. Respect the talent, developmental stage and goals of each athlete.
12. Ensure each athlete competes in events that challenge that athlete’s potential and are appropriate to that athlete’s ability.
13. Ensure athletes seek medical attention when required.
14. Alert to any form of abuse from other sources directed toward your athletes.
15. Not drinking alcohol, smoking or taking illegal drugs while representing Special Olympics at any time during team functions, practises, overnight trips and competitions. This includes in residence or accommodation budlings at all times.
16. Refrain from any form of personal abuse towards athletes and others, including inappropriate or unwanted sexual advances on others and verbal, physical and emotional abuse.
In Addition to the Above Policies, Each Adult School Representative Shall Adhere to the Following on Overnight Special Olympics Events:
1. The teacher-coach bears the responsibility for supervising his or her athletes for the entire period during which they are absent from school or home.
2. Must be available and present at the event and accommodation site for the duration of their athlete’s time in that event or accommodation.
Infractions/Discipline/ Consequences
Special Olympics Ontario has sole and absolute discretion as to any disciplinary actions to be taken if a person violates the Coach Code of Conduct. Any action taken is predicated on the good faith belief of Special Olympics Ontario that the disciplinary action is appropriate. The following disciplinary actions may be taken:
a) Ejection from a game or event
b) Suspension from School Championships or Qualifiers
c) Prohibited from coaching or participating in any Special Olympics event in any form or fashion
d) Notification to appropriate governing bodies e) Requiring written letter of apology and requiring appropriate restitution.
