CODE OF CONDUCT

Introduction

Code Savvy is on a mission to empower all students and educators with the knowledge and skills to create with technology. We pursue this goal by providing hands-on experiences that inspire learners to explore, build, and innovate.

As part of that mission, Code Savvy is committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for everyone — regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity, nationality, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, mental or physical disability, neuro(a)typicality, religion, level of experience or knowledge, socioeconomic background, political affiliation, or any other personal attribute.

All members of the Code Savvy community — including board members, staff, volunteers, facilitators, and participants — share the responsibility for upholding this Code of Conduct to ensure a welcoming and respectful environment across all
programs and events.

Applicability

This Code of Conduct applies to all Code Savvy programs and events, both in person and virtual. It also covers associated communication including that in online spaces and digital communication platforms (e.g., email, social media, Slack, GitHub, etc.).

Core Principles

1. Do Not Harass

Harassment includes any unwelcome or hostile behavior toward another individual. This may include, but is not limited to:

  • Offensive comments related to personal identity or appearance
  • Sexual comments, images, or innuendo
  • Bullying, intimidation, stalking, or unwanted following
  • Harassing photography or recording
  • Nonconsensual sharing of private communications
  • Inappropriate physical contact or unwelcome sexual attention
  • Disruption of sessions, events, or community discussions

Code Savvy will not tolerate harassment in any form.

2. Respect Others’ Perspectives and Abilities

Our programs bring together participants of all experience levels and backgrounds. We encourage curiosity and dialogue, but expect all disagreement to be respectful and constructive.

  • Do not assume others’ skill levels or knowledge.
  • Ask questions and listen before offering advice or corrections.
  • When mentoring, support learning without taking over (e.g., avoid taking control of a student’s keyboard or project).
  • Encourage growth in others — and in yourself.

Values

While this document exists primarily to prevent inappropriate behavior, we also believe that our participants should work toward a higher standard. To that end, we expect conduct that reflects our values at all of our events, both online and in person:

Inclusivity

We maintain a focus on inclusive practices that interrupt and counteract gender, racial, physical, and economic bias and create a welcoming environment for all learners.

Diversity

We believe in the importance of students and educators coming together with a variety of backgrounds because tomorrow’s tech professionals need to be reflective of all our communities.

Community

We nurture networks of learners to create a supportive community for change.

Empowerment

We believe the next generation of computer science professionals are already in all of our communities. When provided with the resources and mentorship unavailable in a traditional school setting, they’ll be empowered to transform the world.

Curiosity

We encourage students and educators alike to pursue the answers to “Why?” “How?” and “What if…?” Sometimes the smallest questions can lead to big ideas.

Creativity

We believe there is more than one way to approach a problem, and that the most impactful ideas are the ones that stand apart from the crowd.

Reporting an Issue

If you experience or witness a violation of this Code of Conduct and feel safe doing so, we encourage you to first address it directly. If you are unable or uncomfortable intervening, please report the issue to a Code Savvy staff member at the event, or submit a report using our secure form.

You may submit a report anonymously or include your name. Reports are reviewed by the Executive Director and either the Board Chair or the Director of People Operations, depending on the contact you indicate in the form.

Please include as much of the following information as you feel comfortable sharing (optional but helpful):

  • Which program or event the issue occurred at
  • Name(s) of those involved (if known)
  • Time, date, and location
  • A description of what happened
  • Any witnesses
  • Your contact information (optional)

We respect your privacy and will not share your identity without your permission, unless legally required.

Response and Outcome

The Executive Director, Director of People Operations, and/or a Code Savvy Board Member will review all reports impartially. If a conflict of interest exists, the report will be redirected to an appropriate party, with the consent of the affected individual(s).

Consequences for violating the Code of Conduct may include, but are not limited to:

  • A verbal or written warning
  • Immediate removal from an event or program
  • Temporary or permanent suspension from future Code Savvy activities
  • Referral to external authorities, if appropriate

When in doubt, we prioritize the experience and well-being of those who were affected by the behavior in question.

Contributing to This Code

This is a living document, shaped by our community. We welcome your feedback, additions, and insights.

To suggest changes or offer input, please submit your ideas using this form.