Groundworks Parent Code of Conduct

Purpose

Groundworks kids program exists to serve the kids. Our mission is to provide a safe, respectful, and focused training environment where children can learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

By enrolling your child at Groundworks, you agree to the following standards of conduct.

Core Expectations

All parents and guardians must:

Put kids first — Every decision we make prioritizes the safety and wellbeing of children
Be respectful — All interactions with children, parents, and staff must be respectful
Follow staff directions — Coaches have final authority on gym safety and conduct decisions
Report incidents via email — All complaints must be submitted in writing so we can review them fairly. Brief logistical questions can be handled in person before/after class.
De-escalate conflicts — Walk away rather than engage. Report issues to staff rather than confronting other parents. Being provoked does not excuse continued engagement.
Keep adult conflicts outside — Personal disputes between adults must not enter the gym or involve children

Prohibited Behavior

Zero-Tolerance Violations

The following result in permanent removal:

Verbal abuse toward a child (name-calling, insults, humiliation, derogatory comments)
Involving a child in adult conflict (negative comments about another parent to a child, using a child to convey messages, exposing children to adult disputes)
Physical intimidation or contact toward any person
Threats toward any person at the gym
Hate speech or discriminatory remarks
Harassment of staff
Intoxication at the gym

Serious Misconduct

The following result in escalating consequences (warning → suspension → removal):

Disrespectful, aggressive, or confrontational behavior toward adults
Coaching from the sidelines or undermining instructors
- Exception: coaches may invite parents who are active members of our adults program to assist
Stepping onto the mat without staff permission
Spreading rumors or creating ongoing conflict
Repeatedly ignoring staff directions

Consequences

Zero-tolerance violations: We investigate all reports. If we determine a violation occurred, removal is permanent.

Serious misconduct:

First offense: Written warning
Second offense: Suspension from gym attendance
Third offense: Permanent removal

Consequences are based on severity of behavior, whether children were involved, pattern of conduct over time, and impact on the gym environment.

Ultimately, we will do what's necessary to keep this a safe, respectful place for kids to train.

Conflict Between Parents

We do not take sides in personal disputes between parents.

If personal conflicts exist between families, parents must resolve them independently. The gym will not determine who is right, arbitrate disagreements, or serve as a forum for adult disputes.

However, we will enforce behavioral standards equally on all parties. If a conflict results in conduct that violates this code—regardless of who started it—all parties involved will be held accountable for their own behavior.

How We Handle Complaints

All complaints must be submitted via email. This ensures a clear record and fair review.

If you witness behavior that violates this code:

Briefly inform staff that an incident occurred
Send an email describing what happened (date, time, who was involved, what was said/done, any witnesses)
Staff will acknowledge your report and follow up

For disputed incidents, we may initiate a 72-hour investigation period. This protects everyone—including you—from rushed decisions based on incomplete information. During this time, we may ask involved parties to refrain from attending while we assess the situation. Children may continue training if another adult handles drop-off and pick-up.

During any investigation:

Provide a factual account of what happened
Be patient—fair decisions take time

Acknowledgment

By enrolling your child at Groundworks, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to abide by this Parent Code of Conduct. Violations may result in warnings, suspension, or removal from the program.

This policy exists to protect our kids and our community. Thank you for helping us maintain a positive training environment.