MASA Code of Conduct for Sponsored Events

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MASA is committed to creating professional learning spaces that are welcoming, inclusive, and respectful for everyone. Whether attending in person or virtually, all registrants, guests, speakers, organizers, volunteers, partners, vendors, and staff are asked to contribute to a positive experience by upholding this Code of Conduct.

Our Shared Commitment

MASA sponsored events are intended to foster collaboration, reflection, and professional growth. MASA believes these spaces are most meaningful when all participants feel safe, heard, and respected. MASA welcomes people of all backgrounds and experiences and is committed to providing an environment free of harassment or discrimination, regardless of:

• Gender, sexual orientation, or gender identity/expression

• Physical or mental ability

• Age or appearance

• Race, ethnicity, or nationality

• Religion, belief system, or political affiliation

• Any other protected characteristic

MASA asks every participant to approach events with the same kind of care, kindness, and sense of collective responsibility expected at school/community events.

Expected Behavior

MASA encourages all participants to:

• Treat others with respect and consideration

• Engage in thoughtful, constructive dialogue—even when perspectives differ

• Be mindful of how their communication may be perceived, including tone, language, and body language

• Presume goodwill and clarify concerns directly and respectfully whenever possible

• Respect others’ personal space and preferences, including regarding physical contact

• Speak up or seek support when observing behavior that may cause harm or exclusion

• Alert staff or security to dangerous situations or if someone appears to be in distress

• Follow all venue and event policies

By doing so, a professional environment can be created where curiosity and connection thrive.

Unacceptable Behavior

MASA does not tolerate harassment, discrimination, or behavior that diminishes the dignity of others. Examples of conduct that are not acceptable include (but are not limited to):

• Offensive, abusive, or derogatory speech or gestures

• Comments or conduct that are harmful or harassing based on someone’s identity or protected status

• Unprofessional remarks—verbal or written—intended to undermine a colleague's professional reputation, especially when shared with external audiences

• Intimidation, threats, stalking, or bullying (virtual or in person)

• Repeated disruption or interruption of sessions or speakers

• Behavior that creates a hostile environment for other participants

• Sexual or physical harassment, including unwelcome contact or suggestive content

• Inappropriate messages or conduct in digital chat or meeting platforms

• Threats of physical harm

• Retaliation against individuals who report concerns

• Inappropriate use of nudity, sexual imagery, or profanity in shared spaces or presentations

Reporting a Concern

Persons who witness or experience behavior that does not align with this Code of Conduct should reach out to the MASA Executive Director via email directly or complete the MASA Code of Conduct - Concern Form

Individuals will not be required to engage directly with the individual whose behavior is in question. If possible, the report should be submitted within one week of the incident so the Executive Director can respond appropriately and in a timely fashion. Reports with sufficient information will be reviewed by the MASA Executive Director and Executive Officers. All concerns will be handled with care, confidentiality, and urgency.

If someone is in immediate danger or bodily harm is involved, please contact event staff or call 911 right away.

Response and Consequences

MASA takes violations of this Code of Conduct seriously. After review, MASA may take actions including—but not limited to:

• Removing individuals from current events or activities (without refund)

• Restricting future participation in MASA-sponsored events

• Revoking association membership (without refund)

• Notifying the individual's employer or the Board of School Administrators in cases of serious misconduct

Each situation will be evaluated thoughtfully, and responses will be guided by the nature and severity of the concern.

False Reporting

Reporting concerns in good faith is a core part of maintaining safe, inclusive spaces. Anyone who knowingly makes a false report or provides false information during an investigation may be subject to corrective action. However, a sincere report—even if ultimately unsubstantiated—is not considered a false accusation.

No Retaliation

Retaliation against someone for raising a concern or participating in an investigation is strictly prohibited. Acts of retaliation will be treated as serious violations of this Code and will be addressed promptly.