2024–25 Student and Parent Handbook

Student and Parent Handbook 2024–25

Through academic excellence and character development, Far Hills Country Day School provides each child brilliant beginnings for success in the modern world.

WELCOME FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

Dear Students and Parents,

Far Hills Country Day School is guided by its values and mission to strengthen each student’s mind and character. Our core values, our Five Pillars of Character: include Respect, Responsibility, Honesty, Leadership, and Kindness. The rules, policies, and procedures detailed in this Student and Parent Handbook emanate from our core values and provide a framework for living in our community

Please familiarize yourself with the contents of this Handbook annually and, parents, as necessary, please translate the spirit of this Handbook for your children. To help with the familiarization, I draw your attention to the following policy changes and points of emphasis:

● After-School Programming Managed by Far Hills:

○ We are excited to announce that all after-school programs will now be fully managed in-house by Far Hills. This change allows us to provide a more personalized, cohesive experience for our students. With a variety of enriching activities available, including sports, arts, and academic clubs, students will benefit from a seamless extension of the school day in a familiar environment, led by our own talented faculty and staff. Registration and program details will be communicated throughout the year, and we encourage you to explore these offerings for your child.

● PowerSchool and Open Gradebook Policies for Grades 5–8:

○ This year, we are transitioning to PowerSchool as our new student information system, which offers greater transparency and easier access for both students and parents. Through PowerSchool, you will be able to stay informed about your child's academic progress in real time with our new open gradebook policy. This policy encourages consistent communication between teachers, students, and parents, and provides a more comprehensive view of assignments, grades, and feedback. We hope this tool will foster ongoing dialogue and promote student growth.

● Updates to the Dress Code:

○ We have made several updates to the dress code to ensure that it aligns with our values of respect, responsibility, and professionalism. These updates reflect feedback

from our community and are designed to promote both comfort and school pride. We ask that all families carefully review the new guidelines, which outline acceptable attire for daily wear, special events, and physical education classes Our goal is to maintain a respectful, cohesive atmosphere while allowing students the freedom to express themselves appropriately.

If you have any questions, please contact me. We look forward to a fabulous year together!

Sincerely,

Georgia S. Zaiser Head of School

The Far Hills Student and Parent Handbook is published and distributed to members of the Far Hills community for the purpose of providing information on aspects of student and campus life Students, parents, faculty, administration, and staff should all read and be familiar with the contents of this Handbook so that each member of the community knows and understands the expectations of students within our community This Handbook is not intended to create, nor does it create, a contract or part of a contract in any way, including but not limited to, between Far Hills and any parent, guardian, or student affiliated with or attending the School. Far Hills reserves the right to alter, amend, or modify the policies and procedures in this Handbook at any time before, during, or after the school year.

I. INTRODUCTION

Mission Statement

Through academic excellence and character development, Far Hills Country Day School provides each child brilliant beginnings for success in the modern world.

Principles of Our Community and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Far Hills Country Day School is committed to establishing a community where students, families, faculty, administration, and staff of all walks of life and all backgrounds feel valued and included. We believe that a diverse community that learns and works together with mutual respect is essential to meeting our mission as a school.

Far Hills Country Day School pledges to encourage and embrace all aspects of diversity, inclusion, and pluralism We believe academic excellence and character development are nurtured, strengthened, and sustained by a learning experience that intentionally engages the different backgrounds, perspectives, and ideas of our community and world. We strive to create and enhance an inclusive environment that challenges us to see beyond our own perspectives and honors the unique contribution of each member of our community. We believe purposeful engagement with diversity provides each child with the collaborative skills necessary for success in the modern world.

A fundamental principle of our school is to live with integrity in a strong community. To further that goal, we expect every member of our community to:

● Respect one another and treat everyone fairly

● Lead by example Model civility, integrity, honesty, and empathy

● Accept personal responsibility and be accountable for our actions

● Discourage and refrain from verbal abuse and bullying; be kind and encourage kindness in others.

● Seek out, welcome, and include others at every opportunity, and avoid both unintended and purposeful exclusiveness.

● Listen to others and try to understand their life experiences and points of view.

● Value and respect the life of the mind and independent thinking and encourage the many ways to learn and succeed.

● Work together to find common ground.

● Recognize and value the unique contribution of each member of the School community.

● Embrace and advance the common good for our community and the world around us.

Parents, teachers, and administrators at Far Hills commit to:

● Understand and embrace the School’s philosophy, mission, and vision.

● Get to know students, teachers, and other parents through volunteer activities and active participation in the life of the School

● Support the School’s curriculum and program, faculty and staff, and students, and be generous with time, talent, and treasure.

● Communicate promptly, openly, honestly, and constructively with each other and at the appropriate level.

Our alum are important members of our extended community. Far Hills depends on loyal alums remaining involved in the life of the School, acting as role models and mentors for students and alums, and offering their loyalty and support.

Non-Discrimination Policy

Far Hills admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin, religion, or sexual orientation to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the School. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability (including AIDS and HIV-related illnesses), perceived disability, genetic information, refusal to provide genetic information, refusal to submit to genetic testing, veteran status, ancestry, familial status, marital status, pregnancy, domestic partnership status, gender identity or expression, affectional or sexual orientation, atypical hereditary cellular or blood trait, liability for military service or any other category protected under federal or New Jersey law in the administration of its educational policies, employment policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.

No person at Far Hills shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subject to discrimination under any educational or athletic

program or activity. If a student believes they have been subjected to gender discrimination, the student should report to the Division Director or The Head of School

The School will conduct an investigation if it is determined that an investigation is warranted. Following the conclusion of the investigation, the School will notify all parties involved of the findings.

II.

Honor Code

Far Hills seeks to foster an attitude of personal integrity that promotes honorable behavior in the community. To exemplify this spirit, one must distinguish between knowing “the right thing” in theory and doing “the right thing” in practice. Furthermore, one should strive to discover their own ethics.

Respect, Responsibility, Honesty, Kindness, and Leadership are the main components of honor that students should endeavor to achieve. Honesty is necessary for a person to have healthy interactions with peers, as well as to develop an understanding of self. In practicing honesty, a person allows others to know them and also creates an atmosphere unhindered by misconceptions. Leadership entails exemplifying the qualities that comprise honor and incorporating them into one’s daily life. Doing so will encourage others to follow honorable acts.

Respect plays an important part in achieving honorable behavior. A mutual respect among members of the community is pivotal in creating an environment where ideas can flourish. Students are responsible for abiding by the established rules; questioning of rules should be done in an appropriate manner. The School values kindness as well and encourages students to be thoughtful in their interactions with others

One should reflect upon one’s own values and how they contribute to the Far Hills community and to one’s own perception of honor. Nurturing honor within oneself and applying the concept to the school community will influence behavior in all aspects of life Before a positive change can occur in the community, individuals must understand the changes they themselves must make and apply them toward perpetuating an honorable community.

Code of Student Character

Students at Far Hills should strive to observe the Five Pillars of Student Character as described below Far Hills students are expected to:

RESPECT

● Treat others as they expect to be treated.

● Use appropriate language.

● Ask permission before touching another’s belongings

● Speak in an appropriate tone and volume so as to not disturb others.

● Be on time for school and individual classes.

● Follow school and classroom rules.

● Listen when someone is speaking and wait to express their own ideas.

● Consider the feelings, differences, and opinions of others

● Take care of school property and keep the School clean.

RESPONSIBILITY

● Accept responsibility for their choices.

● Practice only positive conduct that reflects credit to the School and/or School personnel.

● Practice self-control.

● Walk quietly in the hallways and common spaces

● Dress neatly and follow the dress code.

● Use their time effectively.

● Use appropriate manners; be polite and caring to others.

● Cooperate with others and do their share of the task to be completed.

● Follow all the guidelines in the Acceptable Use Agreement for Technology.

● Do their best work (defined by division, grade level and/or discipline).

● Complete their homework and turn it in on time

● Complete assignments using appropriate grade-specific tools.

● Follow all the guidelines in the Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying policy.

HONESTY

● Tell the truth even when it is difficult.

● Be trustworthy.

● Keep their word.

● Do their own work and appropriately credit others

● Play by the rules.

KINDNESS

● Hold the door for others

● Including others.

● Invite others to join them

● Think of others before they think of themselves.

● Help others.

● Greet, acknowledge, and welcome others using their names.

● Say kind words.

● Communicate using technology with the same spirit of kindness as they would in person

LEADERSHIP

● Keep a positive attitude.

● Do the right thing even when no one is looking.

● Work for the good of the group

● Look for opportunities to help others.

● Do their best to stand with the caring majority.

● Give their talents and skills to help where needed.

● Strive to make a contribution in the school.

● Express and support their opinions in an appropriate way

● Represent Far Hills in a positive manner.

● Be positively engaged in the world around them

Rules and Regulations

Students are enrolled at Far Hills on the condition that they abide by the standards set forth within this Handbook, that they uphold the Far Hills’ Five Pillars of Character, and that they do not engage in misconduct or other activities that may disrupt the educational, social, or co-curricular environment of the School. Most of the rules and regulations listed below are obvious, adherence to which requires little more than exercising one’s common sense and good judgment

General Conduct

Expected student behaviors for designated places and times include the following but at all times and places, no backpacks are to be used during the school day without permission from the Division Director.

A The Library and Media Center

a. The Library and Media Center are places for quiet work and research.

b. All books are to be properly signed out.

c Magazines and reference materials are not to leave the Library or Media Center unless the librarian has granted special permission.

B. The Upper School Commons, Piazza, and Learning Commons

a These areas are places to gather as a community; therefore, it is the responsibility of the entire community to ensure their cleanliness and proper use. Those who misuse space or disrespect it in any way will be addressed.

C. Lunch Time

a. All students should enter the cafe with comportment and behave appropriately throughout lunch.

b. The cafe should be reasonably clean upon exit.

c. Students are expected to use proper table manners at all times.

d. Students (Grades K–8) are expected to eat school-provided food.

e. Permission to bring lunch for medical or dietary reasons must be cleared with the School Nurse.

D Assembly

a. Students line up in homerooms and proceed in an orderly manner.

b Students sit with their assigned homerooms

c Students will demonstrate appropriate audience behavior

E. Physical Education Locker Room

a All athletic clothing should be taken home and laundered at the end of each week.

b. Students must wear proper athletic clothing to participate in physical education (Please see the Dress Code section)

c Students are permitted in the Athletic Center and locker rooms only during designated times.

F. Behavior at Dismissal

Details of dismissal procedures are communicated at the beginning of each school year. All students are expected to know these procedures and to:

a. Be prompt and report to the correct location.

b. Conduct themselves in an orderly manner.

c Listen to dismissal teachers and follow their directions, obeying all safety and traffic rules.

d. Be organized and have all homework materials properly packed.

Students being picked up from special events, tutoring, etc , are to wait with the teacher in charge and follow the above procedures accordingly Students being picked up early must sign out in the Main Office/Piazza Reception and exit the Main Entrance door or Piazza Doors.

Plagiarism

Honesty in our dealings with one another is one of the most important rules of conduct In addition to the more obvious forms of academic dishonesty, such as cheating on a test and copying another student’s homework, there is plagiarism. Plagiarism, which is the submission of the work of another as your own without giving the author credit, is prohibited for both written and electronic works, including the use of ChatGPT and other artificial intelligence. The School assumes that a student’s work, produced under any conditions, fully originates from the student unless they indicate otherwise Students, therefore, must understand that everything they submit as their own must, in fact, be their own; or, if they submit something, either in whole or in part, other than their own, they must attribute any and all gathered material clearly and precisely to its original source.

Cheating

No form of cheating, e.g., copying a friend’s homework or getting online translations, is acceptable at the School Cheating undermines the integrity of the School’s mission of providing an academically rich environment and deprives students of the opportunity to

Consequences

of Academic Dishonesty

Instances of Academic Dishonesty are considered violations of the Far Hills Honor Code and are handled as such (see Discipline Guidelines chapter). In addition, compromised work may incur an academic penalty, up to and including total loss of credit.

III. SCHOOL RULES

Attendance and Absences

Early Dismissals

Parents should try to schedule appointments for their children outside of school hours. For appointments that cannot be scheduled outside of school hours, a parent must enter the appropriate information into SchoolPass at least two hours before the student needs to be dismissed The written notice or email must include the date, time of dismissal, and time of return, if applicable. Parents are required to sign students out with the division assistant of the youngest student; at the school’s Main Entrance (Front Office) or at the Piazza (Lower School Entrance), whichever entrance is appropriate. Upon their return, students should check in with the designated assistant.

Staying Home

Students too ill to participate in a full day of school activities should stay home until well. To protect the health of others, a student with a cough and/or runny nose who cannot prevent exposing others to his/her illness should also be kept at home. Other reasons for staying home include fever (temperature 100.5+) and contagious diseases (e.g., conjunctivitis, impetigo, chicken pox, strep throat, and head lice). The School Nurse should be notified of any contagious illness or exposure so that other students can be monitored Specific questions about illnesses and attending or returning to school should be discussed with the School Nurse. On days when a student will be absent due to illness or emergency, the student’s parent/guardian must call either the Lower School assistant for students in Preschool–Grade 4 or the Upper School assistant for students in Grades 5–8 between 8:00 and 8:30 a.m. or enter the absence in the SchoolPass application.

Unexcused Absences

In general, with the exception of certain medical and dental appointments, illnesses, religious holidays, secondary school visits, and deaths in the family, absences during school days will be regarded as unexcused absences. In the event of an unexcused absence, the student’s parent/guardian is required to communicate with the Division Director in writing as soon as possible in advance of the absence. Teachers are not required to provide work in advance of a student’s unexcused absence; a request for an

extended vacation is an example of an unexcused absence

Upper School students should speak with each of their teachers in advance of an unexcused absence. It is the student’s responsibility to refer to Google Classroom and make arrangements to complete missed assignments in a timely fashion.

Attendance

Attendance at school each day is critical to a student’s successful academic development students who are absent 20% or more risk losing their place at school.

Tardiness

The Far Hills school day begins officially at 8:00 a.m. for both Lower School students and Upper School students. Students are marked tardy if they enter school after 8:10 a.m.

Students who arrive late must sign in at the Front Office or Piazza. Catching up with a class that is underway is challenging for students. Timeliness is strongly encouraged.

Security Drills

Far Hills holds drills frequently throughout the year to accustom students to the proper procedures in the event of an emergency. In the case of a fire, everyone, including campus visitors, must proceed promptly to their designated safety area and follow the instructions of the faculty Other types of campus security drills also are run occasionally throughout the school year, requiring students, faculty, and guests to occupy the nearest room or otherwise follow procedures as instructed until normal activities resume. Parents will be notified via an e-blast after the completion of any fire or security drill.

Dress Code and Appearance

The Far Hills Dress Code sets a standard of neat and appropriate dress for a school with high expectations where students should learn to present themselves responsibly Rather than a uniform, we have a dress code. The simplicity of the code allows for easy identification, reduces fashion competition, and offers parents options within a reasonable budget. It is the responsibility of parents to send students to school dressed in a manner that complies with the spirit and letter of our uniform code. Please click here to view the

Permissions

Students may not leave the bounds of Far Hills’ campus without the permission of the Division Director.

Personal and School Property

Students’ use of Far Hills property, such as lockers, furniture, and equipment, is a privilege granted by the School, and it is therefore expected that students will take care of the property of the School as if it were their own

The School is not responsible for lost, damaged, or stolen property, including but not limited to computers, clothing, and hand-held electronic devices brought to the School or on school-related trips.

Harassment, Bullying, and Intimidation Plan

“Harassment, bullying, and intimidation” is prohibited at Far Hills. It is defined as any gesture, any written, verbal or physical act, or any electronic communication, that is reasonably perceived as being motivated either by any actual or perceived characteristic, such as race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, or a mental, physical or sensory disability, or by any other distinguishing characteristic, that takes place on school property, at any school-sponsored function, that substantially disrupts or interferes with the orderly operation of the school or the rights of other students and that a reasonable person should know, under the circumstances, will have the effect of physically or emotionally harming a student or damaging the student’s property, or placing a student in reasonable fear of physical or emotional harm to his person or damage to his property; or has the effect of insulting or demeaning any student or group of students in such a way as to cause substantial disruption in, or substantial interference with, the orderly operation of the school; or creates a hostile educational environment for the student; or infringes on the rights of the student at school by interfering with a student’s education or by severely or pervasively causing physical or emotional harm to the student.

Examples of specific types of “harassment, intimidation, and bullying” include, but are not

limited to:

● Causing physical harm to another student or damage to another student’s property;

● Placing another student in reasonable fear of harm to themself or of damage to their property;

● Creating a hostile environment at school for another student;

● Infringing on the rights of another student at school; or

● Materially and substantially disrupting the education process or the orderly operation of the School.

Please carefully review, in its entirety, the School’s Harassment, Bullying, and Intimidation Plan (the “Plan”) for additional details regarding the School’s commitment to the prevention of harassment, intimidation, and bullying. A copy of the Plan is posted on the School’s website and is included as an attachment to this Handbook (Appendix A) Each student is required to abide by the Plan.

Sexual Intimacy

Sexual encounters are prohibited at School and during school-related activities.

Electronic Communications and Acceptable Use

The School has excellent resources for communication and research. Students must remember that the principal purpose of any exchange of information within this community is for educational purposes and that any communication made to or from the School, with or without school-controlled equipment, must be made in line with the Standards of Conduct. Whether physically on campus or off campus, whether during the school day or at night, on vacation or at any other time while enrolled at the School, whether linked to the School’s network from in school or from a remote location or not at all, or using their own personal computer or communication device on or off campus, all students must comply with this Acceptable Use Agreement (AUA) and any applicable policies and procedures as long as they are enrolled at the School, as set forth in this Handbook and as further described below.

The School has explicit guidelines for using computers and other devices, both on and off

campus, using the School’s network, and accessing the internet The School may monitor the activity and contents (including e-mail) of computers on campus and/or connected to the School’s network, to ensure student safety and that the guidelines are being followed, and to the extent permitted by law. The School expects students and parents to adhere to the following guidelines.

Students may:

● use technology for school work or class projects and assignments, at the teacher’s discretion;

● access the internet with teacher permission to enrich learning related to school work; and

● use technology in ways directed by the teacher;

● use their device at home for homework, school work, or projects.

Students may not:

● post personal contact information about themselves or other people;

● try to access network resources not intended for them;

● share their passwords with anyone;

● alter electronic communications to hide their identity or impersonate another person;

● communicate with or make plans to meet in person anyone the student has contacted online;

● use inappropriate language or images in email, web pages, videos, or social networking sites;

● be disrespectful by talking or posting derogatory material (images, video, etc.) via email, social networking sites, live chat, web page, or any other method;

● engage in cyberbullying, harassment or sexting, in violation of the School’s Harassment, Bullying, and Intimidation Plan and related policies as stated in this Handbook;

● access inappropriate information on the internet such as (but not restricted to) sites that bypass filtering, promote hate or violence, gaming, or sites with sexually explicit or graphic, pornographic, or obscene material;

● plagiarize printed or electronic information; students must follow all copyright, trademark, patent and other laws governing intellectual property;

● install or download software onto School computers from the internet, home, or

by any other means; they may not remove network cables, keyboards or any other components unless expressly permitted by the School;

● use ChatGPT or other artificial intelligence software as a substitute for performing their own school work;

● remove any School-owned computer equipment from the School unless instructed to do so by School.

● store personal files on the network, except in their own network user account; any information that a student leaves on a School-owned device may be deleted at any time, with or without notice.

● [Lower School] students are not permitted to carry any personal digital devices, including smart watches

● [Upper School students] may not carry cell phones or other digital devices, including any smart watch, on their person. Devices will be collected each morning, stored in the Division Director’s office and returned at the end of athletics. Should a student need their device during the day they will have to see the Division Director

● Disclose confidential or proprietary information related to the School, make public remarks that defame or disparage the School, its employees, its students or its interests, or that recklessly disregard or distort the truth of the matters commented on;

● access, change, delete, read, or copy any file, program, or account that belongs to someone else without permission;

● use the network for illegal or commercial activities;

● intentionally vandalize, steal, or cause harm to any School-owned equipment;

● deliberately disrupt or attempt to disrupt the software or hardware of the School network; or

● be “friends” with, or otherwise directly connected to any School employee on any social networking site that is not used primarily for educational purposes (e.g., Twitter is often used by both faculty and the administration for educational and informational purposes). If a student is contacted by a School employee via non-School channels for non-educational purposes, the student should immediately notify their parents and advisor.

Students should understand that:

● the use of inappropriate language, harassment, and disrespectful comments in email, texting or a chat room, or on a website or social networking site from either inside or outside the School, and whether during the school day, after hours, or during vacation time, as long as a student is enrolled at the School, may result in disciplinary action.

● there is no guarantee of privacy associated with their use of the School’s technology resources. Students should not expect that email, voice mail, or other information created or maintained on the School’s network or School-issued devices (even those marked “personal”, “confidential”, or on a home network) will be private, confidential, or secure. The School has the right to access and monitor both student-owned and School-owned computers and communication devices connected to the School’s network. By accessing the School’s system, each student has consented to the School’s right to view and/or monitor the School’s network and all of its associated accounts

● they will be held accountable for unattended accounts, and for use of their computer or communication device if such equipment is left unattended and/or used by another individual. Students are responsible for any damage to the school’s equipment while it is in their care.

● they are expected to read, understand, and sign the Acceptable Use Agreement (included as Appendix B of this Handbook). Students should understand that students are responsible for following these rules. If a student does not follow these rules, and if the use of technology on or off-campus negatively impacts the educational experience of a student enrolled at the School, the student will lose computer privileges and will face disciplinary action

Parents should understand that:

● it is the responsibility of all parents to read this policy and discuss it with the student;

● teachers and administrators will strive to help students understand this policy at a level that is appropriate to their age and maturity; and

● if a student willfully or carelessly damages the hardware or software of any School-owned technology, the parent will be responsible for paying for the repair or replacement of that technology, at the discretion of the Division Directors or the Head of School

The School reserves the right to:

● access, view, monitor, and track any information or communication stored on or transmitted over the School’s network, on or over equipment that has been used to access the School’s network or School-issued devices, and under certain circumstances, it may be required by law to allow third parties to do so. In addition, others may inadvertently view messages or data as a result of routine systems maintenance, monitoring, or misdelivery; and

● restrict the material accessed and not permit computers to be used for commercial purposes or for accessing inappropriate sites.

Security

Security on any computer network is a high priority when the system involves many users, especially those in grades Preschool-8th. If a student feels that he or she can identify a security problem on the internet, the student must notify the Director of Technology. Students should not demonstrate the problem to other users Attempts to log on to the internet as anyone but the student themself may result in cancellation of user privileges. Any user identified as a security risk or having a history of problems with other computer systems may be denied access to the School’s network.

Vandalism

Vandalism will result in the cancellation of privileges and will result in disciplinary and monetary action. Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm or destroy the data of another user, the internet, or other devices or networks. This includes, but is not limited to, the uploading or creation of computer viruses, attempts at gaining unauthorized access, changing hardware, or physically/ purposefully destroying hardware, or software settings, or changing online materials without permission

Students are expected to assist in the enforcement of this policy If a student suspects a violation of this policy, or if a student feels nervous or uncomfortable about another school community member’s use of technology, the student should immediately report his or her suspicions, feelings, and observations to the Division Director and/or a trusted adult.

Sanctions And Discipline

Students found to be in violation of this electronic communications and acceptable use policy will be subject to discipline including, but not limited to, the loss of computer privileges, probation, monetary compensation, and dismissal from the School. Some violations may constitute criminal offenses as defined by local, state, and federal laws, and the School may initiate or assist in the prosecution of any such violations to the fullest extent of the law

All students in Grades Preschool–8 and their parents must co-sign an Acceptable Use Agreement (“AUA”) at the beginning of each school year and submit the completed form to the Administrative Assistant for the student’s division. The AUA includes detailed behavioral expectations for email and social networking and is included as Appendix B to this Handbook on the School’s website. Please note that this policy and the AUA do not intend to create, nor do they create, a contract or part of a contract in any way, including but not limited to, between the School and any parent, guardian or student affiliated with or attending the School. The School reserves the right, in its sole discretion and without notice, to interpret, add, revise and/or delete School policies and procedures at any time, before, during, and after the School year.

Cell Phones, Laptops, Personal Music Devices and Communications

The unsupervised use of digital devices is prohibited during the school day. For security reasons, students are prohibited from bringing their devices to campus. A student needing to use personally-owned digital devices must have permission from the Director of Technology.

Students are discouraged from audio and video recording others on campus without the authorization of the person being recorded. Unauthorized use of digital devices will result in the loss of that privilege or other consequences. Students are not permitted to bring cell phones on field trips.

Sexting

The School prohibits students from using technology devices (whether owned by the student or the School, and whether through the use of the School’s network or outside of the School’s network, and whether used on or off campus) to send any written message or image that contains explicit representations or references to sexual conduct, sexual excitement, or nudity (commonly known as “sexting”). New Jersey law prohibits anyone (regardless of age) from disseminating obscene or pornographic images of minors, and the School reserves the right to contact law enforcement should any student violate this policy.

Families should report instances of sexting that occur outside of the campus as well as outside of the school’s network and issued devices to the School for documentation and awareness purposes, and follow up directly with the parents of involved children.

Technology Program Guidelines for Preschool–Grade 8

1:1

Far Hills takes a “1:1” approach to technology, which focuses on the limitless, global learning opportunities afforded by connectivity. 1:1, in the language of our mission, helps us to provide each child brilliant beginnings for success in the modern and connected world. That world requires much more than use of technology and consumption of learning, it requires a platform allowing our students to be creators of content, global collaborators, and innovative problem solvers. This is aided by providing a ubiquitous, individualized technology experience.

1:1 includes providing each student with access to an age-appropriate device. In the Lower School, in Preschool–Grade 1, students will have access to a tablet in their classrooms. In Grade 2, students will have access to and responsibility for an individual tablet and Chromebook as they transition from one device to another In Grades 3–4, students will have access to and responsibility for an individual Chromebook in their classrooms In Upper School, each student will have individual access to and responsibility for a Chromebook during the school day. Chromebooks not only provide students with connectivity to global learning opportunities but also support the use of Google Apps for

Education, which promote communication, collaboration, and creation Google Apps are introduced in Grade 2 and used extensively in the Upper School, where students receive ongoing instruction on the responsible and productive use of these Google Apps: Gmail, Calendar, Drive, Sites, Docs, Sheets, and Slides.

With the adoption of 1:1, featuring the use of Chromebooks in the Upper School, Google Workspace for Education Plus, and other global collaborative programs, there is no need for students to bring or use personal devices on campus Individually assigned devices will be provided for all students in Grades Preschool–8.

To provide approval for safe access to multiple resources—parents are requested to read and approve the policy of the Instruction Technology Websites below.

Acceptable Use of Technology and Media

At Far Hills, we are committed to using technology in responsible and innovative ways to increase student learning. We carefully assess the resources we use to ensure that they are developmentally appropriate, follow best practices in safeguarding student privacy, and are a good match for our curriculum.

Throughout the year, we will be using/adding resources that may require your child to have an account on an app, a website, or online resource. Many of these applications require parental permission before a student under the age of 13 may register. To simplify the process, we maintain a page on our website that lists all the resources for which parental permission is required. We ask that you give consent for your child to access these resources by signing the Parent/Student Handbook Acknowledgement.

If you have any questions about the resources or the process, please contact Oliver Forsythe.

Instructional Technology and Student Privacy Consent

By signing off on this handbook, I confirm that I have read and agree to allow the following:

● I agree to allow my child to use the educational websites, apps, and programs listed in Far Hills Resources list

● I agree to allow my child’s teacher or authorized school personnel to complete the registration process or assist my child in registering for these resources.

● I understand that some personally identifiable information for my child including a username, first name, and/or work samples may be posted on the Internet in a way that could be accessible to the public.

● I agree to allow my student’s work to be published on the Internet as part of a portfolio of their work, to engage in global learning experiences, and/or for positive examples for demonstration purposes.

Far Hills provides each student with a new or like-new device in September. Devices are updated and pass an inspection process each summer.

Appropriate Digital Citizenship for Students

Parents and students should review and discuss this document which includes behavior while at and away from School, Students will sign their own agreement in class.

Trademarked School Logos and various School media files

● Individual students, student groups and parents are not permitted to use the School’s logos, trademarks, official photographs, or any other intellectual property or proprietary materials in any postings in a personal capacity or on any products without the written consent of the Administration; and

● The School logos are currently ™ and are pending ®.

Protection of Self and Community

Students will:

● protect their identity and reputation;

● keep accounts and passwords private and will not access another’s work or login;

● be responsible for their behavior and character on the Far Hills network, social networks, and internet;

● be responsible for the care and use of all Far Hills equipment and property, including computers, software, and other technology devices or equipment;

● not change or modify school system accounts or settings or install software on school equipment;

● do not mark any emails as SPAM, if something is suspicious show it to a teacher; and

● understand that the school prohibits our logos and school name being used without permission from the Interim Director of Marketing and Communications.

Appropriate Behavior

Students will:

● act in an appropriate manner and use digital tools like websites, collaborative apps, and social media for educational purposes. Expectations for appropriate student behavior extend to Google Apps for Education and other educational technology accounts;

● only use programs, websites, and other digital tools assigned by their teacher;

● not use devices to express words or phrases that are rude, disrespectful, or inappropriate;

● not portray themselves, the School, or others associated with the School in a manner conflicting with School values;

● not attempt to play games during the school day;

● not use devices to bully, cyberbully, harass, intimidate or discriminate and will adhere to the “Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Plan” as detailed in the Student & Parent Handbook;

● not use technology to distract classmates from learning;

● only cast their devices to a shared screen while under teacher supervision and direction; and

● not create any social media accounts using the school’s name, various logos, or likeness. Whether in school or at home.

Responsible Citizenship

Students will:

● use third-party digital tools for educational purposes only;

● follow copyright laws, including rules about intellectual property, plagiarism, and copying media;

● respect online spaces and facilities by using appropriate edits, uploading only appropriate images and files, and taking care not to delete or damage student or staff digital material;

● not download, save or print files, pictures or messages without permission from the teacher in charge;

● not record or stream a class, teacher, or students without permission by all parties involved;

● not photograph or post a photo of a class, teacher or student without permission by all parties involved;

● not attempt to break or manipulate a school program so that it is not usable for class.

● not share class activity codes or passwords with outside parties;

● utilize Far Hills collaborative tools and social media to develop a positive online presence;

● notify a teacher of information found online that is inappropriate or makes them or others nervous or uncomfortable; and

● report observations of any violations of this policy to their teacher or a School administrator.

Safety

Far Hills will:

● Use content filtering to keep students safe. It is not possible to protect every student from all content, however. Students must practice good digital citizenship and exercise caution while on the internet; and

● Use the privacy controls provided by Google Apps for Education and other educational products to protect students and limit exposure outside of the Far Hills community. Students should not circumvent these or other protective measures.

Device Care

Students will:

● notify the technology department if a Chromebook is lost or damaged off campus;

● not mark the Chromebook or Tablet with markers or stickers;

● not remove Chromebook or Tablet identification labels or other manufacturing decals;

● keep food and drinks away from your Chromebook or Tablet at all times. Damage caused by spills are not considered normal wear and tear and therefore are not covered under the warranty;

● not leave their Chromebook or Tablet unattended When not in your direct possession, consider how you will secure your Chromebook or Tablet;

● keep personal and school accounts separate. Do not log into personal accounts on a school device; and

● secure and charge your device for daily use. We suggest nightly charging after the school day ends to ensure the device is fully charged at the beginning of the day.

Chromebook or Tablet Take Home Additional Guidelines

Students will:

● use the school-issued Chromebook or Tablet as an educational tool and only as an educational tool;

● only use school-issued Chromebook or Tablet for remote learning classes to ensure the smooth operation;

● alert their teacher if there are any issues with their Chromebook or Tablet, they will ask for tech help;

● be responsible for their school-issued Chromebook or Tablet whether on campus or at home;

● be the only authorized users of their school-issued devices.

● transport the Chromebook or Tablet while considering how to keep it protected. Laptop cases, sleeves, or shells offer protection and come in many styles to meet nearly everyone’s personal taste and needs;

● always shut down or put your Chromebook or Tablet to sleep before moving it. Shutting down and restarting periodically is required for all school-issued devices;

● not leave Chromebook or Tablet in a car for extended periods of time Besides increasing the chance of theft, prolonged exposure to extreme heat and cold can affect performance;

● never log onto an open or free WIFI with a school-issued device;

● be aware that parents/guardians are responsible for monitoring their child’s use of the Chromebook or Tablet at home; and

● contact the police and school office at 908-766-0622 immediately if a Chromebook or Tablet is stolen.

Online Etiquette for Meetings

● student behavior online should mirror appropriate in-person behavior;

● use chat only when instructed to do so;

● the camera must be on at all times;

● school photo must remain as Google Avatar; and

● always mute the microphone at the entrance to Google Meet/Zoom.

Parents/guardians are responsible for monitoring their child’s use of the Chromebook or Tablet at home.

By signing off on this handbook, I confirm that I have read and agree to the terms above and accept financial responsibility for any damages not covered by the warranty on the device. Charges are as follows:

● Significant repair* or replacement: Up to and including $500

● Any charger is broken or not returned in working condition: $20

*A significant repair is defined as any repair that prohibits a student from using their devices efficiently or requires third-party parts/repairs.

Alcohol and Drugs on Campus

Students may not be in possession or under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, or illegal drugs at school at any time. If a student is identified with behaviors that may be due to substance use, then the school will notify the parents and follow its health and safety protocols (available from the Directors of the Lower and Upper Schools upon request). Students in possession or under the influence of alcohol or drugs will also be liable for disciplinary action, including suspension or dismissal.

In an effort to promote our common goal of maintaining a responsible and safe environment for our students and for all children, the Far Hills campus shall be alcohol-free whenever children under the age of 21 are present on campus. The campus must always be drug-free. This policy is issued in furtherance of Far Hills’ commitment to provide a safe and secure environment for all school-related events and activities held on Far Hills’ campus.

School-sponsored activities off-campus will also remain alcohol-free and drug-free when students are present.

Smoking (Including E-Cigarettes and Vaping)

Possession of tobacco products (including E-cigarettes, vapes, and nicotine pouches) on the school campus is prohibited. Students in possession or under the influence of tobacco products will also be liable for disciplinary action, including suspension or dismissal. Smoking cigarettes is a serious health hazard and a fire hazard to the buildings and grounds. Smoking of any and all substances or products on campus is strictly prohibited.

Weapons on Campus

The School requires that all students and parents/guardians, applicants, and alums assist the School in complying with applicable laws regarding the use and possession of firearms in school buildings, on school grounds or on a school bus. In New Jersey, the applicable law states (N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5(e)):

A Firearms or other weapons in educational institutions

(1) Any person who knowingly has in his possession any firearm in or upon any part of the buildings or grounds of any school, college, university, or other educational institution without the written authorization of the governing officer of the institution is guilty of a crime of the third degree, irrespective of whether he possesses a valid permit to carry the firearm or a valid firearms purchaser identification card.

(2) Any person who knowingly possesses any weapon enumerated in paragraphs (3) and (4) of subsection r of N J S 2C:39-1 or any components which can readily be assembled into a firearm or other weapon enumerated in subsection r. of N.J.S.2C:39-1 or any other weapon under circumstances not manifestly appropriate for such lawful use as it may have, while in or upon any part of the buildings or grounds of any school, college, university, or other educational institution without the written authorization of the governing officer of the institution, is guilty of a crime of the fourth degree

(3) Any person who knowingly has in their possession any imitation firearm in or upon any part of the buildings or grounds of any school, college, university, or other educational institution without the written authorization of the governing

officer of the institution or while on any school bus, is a disorderly person, irrespective of whether they possess a valid permit to carry a firearm or a valid firearms purchaser identification card.

In this regard, the School expressly prohibits the possession or use of any weapon by any unauthorized person on campus. As such, no student, parent, or guardian may possess, conceal, use, or transfer any firearm (including any handgun) or any other weapon (including fireworks, firecrackers, a pellet gun, a knife, or any other article or device that is primarily used to inflict injury) on campus. Any instance of weapon possession must be reported immediately to the Director of Security.

Any violation of this policy may result in disciplinary action up to and including dismissal from the School.

IV. DISCIPLINE GUIDELINES

General

These Discipline Guidelines are based on the principles of our Honor Code and reflect Far Hills’ commitment to the Five Pillars of Character: Respect, Responsibility, Honesty, Kindness, and Leadership. The School promotes the kind of communication among faculty, students, and parents that supports students in their personal growth and provides room for a young person to make mistakes and learn from them Students may be disciplined for any conduct, on or off school grounds, which is illegal, contrary to school policies, disruptive of the educational process, or endangers persons or property.

Lower School

As students progress through the Lower School, a great deal of time is spent teaching them to honor their own and others’ uniqueness Teachers with their students strive to build each class into a community of learners. A safe environment is provided so that mistakes become a vehicle for learning acceptable behavior. Age-appropriately, the Five Pillars serve as the foundation for the choices made. Teachers and staff model responsibility, respect, kindness, and good manners in their interactions with students, thus setting an example to be emulated.

When a disciplinary problem occurs, our approach is to emphasize that it is the student’s choice of behavior that is met with disapproval Speaking to a student about their behavior is usually sufficient. Should further steps be warranted, parents are informed, and their input and support are solicited. When parents and teachers work together to stress the same expectations, the highest level of success can be achieved.

If a student’s behavior continues to cause concern and the given consequences are not effective, a recommendation for professional support might be given. At this time, the student’s behavior and all incidents should be documented. Because of the developmental needs of our youngest students, it behooves all of us engaged in working with younger students to be positive in our thinking and to be patient.

Suspensions rarely occur in the Lower School, but they do happen. A suspension may be

an appropriate course of action if a student has repeatedly and/or severely violated our community expectations. A suspension can last for one day and serves to give a student a firm warning. The Division Director determines whether the suspension is “in-house” or out of school. Rarely, but occasionally, a situation may occur because of which a student is asked to leave the School.

Upper School

Guided by the Honor Code, behavior in the Upper School is expected to reflect the growing maturity, integrity, and independence of the students Emphasis is placed upon our Five Pillars of Student Character: Responsibility, Respect, Honesty, Kindness, and Leadership. When a student’s behavior is unsatisfactory, a teacher will work to help that student better understand the root of the problem, the consequences of continuing such behavior, and ways s/he might improve. In the event that the behavior continues or is severe, the teacher may be in touch with the parents, the House Director, the Division Director, and/or the student’s advisor to provide a support network and uniform approach. At this time, the student’s conduct should be documented. Such intervention is necessary when a student’s behavior is affecting their ability or the ability of other students to learn.

Disciplinary Action

In teaching responsibility, Far Hills seeks to develop in students a sense of accountability for words and actions. Discipline is enacted through an institutional response, an educational response, and a personal response. A system of consequences exists to reinforce behavioral expectations, to alert a student that their behavior is unacceptable, and to help a student learn from mistakes. Among the reasons a student’s conduct would invoke a disciplinary response are, but not limited to:

● Failure to abide by the school’s expectations of students, as outlined in this Handbook and otherwise;

● Chewing gum or unapproved candy;

● Tardiness or being unprepared for academic or co-curricular activities;

● Being out of dress code;

● Possession or use of alcohol, marijuana, tobacco, or illegal drugs;

● Improper sexual conduct;

● Sexual or other harassment;

● Threat or use of physical violence;

● Possession or use of matches, lighters, fireworks, explosives, weapons, or other dangerous materials;

● Reprehensible conduct tending to reflect serious discredit to the School;

● Willful destruction of property;

● Inappropriate use or treatment of technology;

● Stealing;

● Dishonesty;

● Bullying or malicious gossip;

● Repeated acts of unkindness, rudeness, or misconduct;

● Repeated classroom behavior that impedes another students’ learning; and/or

● Excessive absences.

A suspension may be an appropriate course of action in the Upper School if a student has severely violated our pillars and code of conduct. Suspensions may be in school or out of school, and they serve to give a student a firm warning. Rarely, but occasionally, a situation may occur for which a student is asked to leave the School

The following behaviors that can result in a suspension or expulsion include, but are not limited to:

● Possession or use of alcohol, marijuana, tobacco, or illegal drugs;

● Improper sexual conduct;

● Sexual or other harassment;

● Threat or use of physical violence;

● Possession or use of matches, lighters, fireworks, explosives, weapons, or other dangerous materials;

● Stealing;

● Breach of a policy or agreement

In addition to probation, suspension, or expulsion (as described more fully below), consequences for violating school rules or policies may consist of recommending that students do one or more of the following, including, but not limited to:

● Reflect in written form (when age appropriate) on a violation of the Honor Code;

● Spend time in a separate place until given permission to rejoin the group (sit and watch, time out);

● Apologize to the person who has been hurt by the student’s words and/or actions;

● Rectify the situation through restorative actions;

● Repeat the process in an approved manner;

● Inform the student’s parents of inappropriate behavior;

● Make restitution for damaged or stolen property;

● Be excluded from a school field trip or school dance; and/or

● Have a lowered grade in the case of cheating.

Alert System

Responses to instances of dress code violation, lateness, and academic and behavioral issues will operate within an alert system using the following guidelines for disciplinary action:

Academic Concern

● Missing homework

● Late to first period

● Class participation

● Assessment performance

● Failure to complete work due to absence

● Plagiarism, which may include the use of ChatGPT or similar artificial intelligence

Dress Code Violation

● Short skirt

● No belt

● No socks

● Improper color

● Improper shoes

● No leggings in winter

● Outerwear in class

● Tops that bare the chest, midriff, shoulders, or tank/halter tops which show undergarments.

Behavioral Concern

● Gum chewing

● Disruptive in class

● Acceptable use violation (technology infraction)

● Cell phone use

● Running in hallways

● Inappropriate physical contact/rough house

● Disrespect (peer/teacher)

● Disrespect (space/commons/locker/locker room)

Accumulation of three alerts in a marking period may result in a reflection time scheduled with the House Director or the Division Director. Six alerts will result in a scheduled meeting with the Division Director. The School, at all times, reserves the right to issue discipline as it sees fit under the circumstances.

Probation

Probation for disciplinary reasons means that a student has been found to have committed a major violation of the Code of Student Character (lying, cheating, disruption of the educational process, etc.) and/or has been found to be in frequent violation of the Honor Code. A student may be dismissed if another major infraction occurs.

Suspension

Suspensions may be in-school or out-of-school, again depending on the severity of the inappropriate behavior and the student’s history of prior discipline problems. A pattern of poor behavior or a serious lack of judgment, such as, but not limited to, repeated disruptive behavior, academic dishonesty, bullying, harassment, fighting, threats of violence, using/possessing/being under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or tobacco products, disrespect of school personnel, or other serious violations of the Honor Code, may result in a suspension, to be determined by the Discipline Committee: House Directors, and Head of School. Repeated suspensions for similar offenses or suspensions for first-time serious offenses become part of a student’s permanent record. A suspension is an exclusion of the student from the school community for a period of time, as a way to promote reflection and learning from mistakes and violations of the Discipline Guidelines. Suspensions generally last from a half-day to a few days, depending on the severity of the

Honor Code breach Parents seeking a more comprehensive review of the school’s approach to suspensions should contact the Head of School.

Expulsion

A recommendation for expulsion typically occurs when a student who has already been suspended is involved in another behavior that warrants suspension. In the most serious cases, a student may be expelled from the School on a first offense, which includes, but is not limited to, bullying, harassment, fighting, threats of violence, using/selling/possessing/being under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or tobacco products, disrespecting of school personnel, or other serious violations of the Code of Conduct and/or school policies. A student’s parent/guardian is responsible for the full tuition cost for the entire academic year, regardless of expulsion.

Behavioral Expectations While Away from School

Students should be aware that they represent the Far Hills community at all times, both on and off campus. While it is not the School’s intention to monitor students in all of their off-campus activities, Far Hills reserves the right to take disciplinary action, including suspension or expulsion, in response to inappropriate conduct occurring off campus, including use of technology devices and social media.

Parent Involvement

Disciplinary matters and student issues are handled directly by teachers, administrators, and appropriate staff. If a student is having an issue with another student, parents should not attempt to confront the other student directly about that matter; doing so may put a student in an intimidating situation and is best resolved, when appropriate, through a school administrator.

Please speak to the appropriate school administrator for guidance with any questions about contacting another student or parent about a school-related matter

Parent/Guardian Code of Conduct

The School is very fortunate to have a supportive and friendly parent body Parents and guardians recognize that educating children is a process that involves partnership between parents, guardians, teachers, and the school community. As a partnership, parents and guardians shall understand the importance of a good working relationship to equip

children with the necessary skills for adulthood The purpose of this policy is to provide a reminder to all parents and guardians about the expected conduct. This is so that we can continue to flourish, progress, and achieve in an atmosphere of mutual understanding.

The School expects parents and guardians to:

● Respect the values of the School

● Understand that teachers, staff, and parents/guardians need to work together for the benefit of their children

● Demonstrate that all members of the school community should be treated with respect and therefore set a good example in their own speech and behavior.

● Approach the School to help resolve any issues of concern.

The School will not tolerate parents and guardians who exhibit the following:

● Disruptive behavior that interferes or threatens to interfere with the operation of a classroom, an employee’s office, office area, or any other area of the campus, including athletic fields

● Use of loud or offensive language, swearing, cursing, using profane language, or displaying temper toward a member of school staff, visitor, fellow parent/guardian, or student.

● Threatening to do actual bodily harm to a member of school staff, visitor, fellow parent/guardian, or student, regardless of whether or not the behavior constitutes a criminal offense.

● Damaging or destroying school property.

● Abusive or threatening e-mails or text/voicemail/phone messages or other written communication to a member of school staff, visitor, fellow parent/guardian, or student

● Defamatory, offensive or derogatory comments regarding the School, or any of the students/parent/staff, on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or other social media sites

● The use of physical aggression towards a member of school staff, visitor, fellow parent/guardian or student.

● Disruptive behavior at school-sponsored events, regardless of the location.

Should any parent or guardian violate this policy, the School reserves the right to (1) contact the appropriate authorities, (2) ban the offending parent or guardian from entering the School’s campus, and/or (3) discharge the student of the parent or guardian from the School, without notice.

V. ACADEMIC PROGRAM

Assessments

Teachers typically announce tests and other major assessments at least one week in advance. A system of communication regarding assessments scheduled on a given day exists through the Upper School office. This system aims to ensure that no student is overburdened on a particular day. A student who finds they are in a situation where their workload is abnormally high is encouraged to consult with their advisor

Homework

Far Hills’ commitment to academic excellence and character development, to striking a healthy balance, and to basing practice on research informs its philosophy regarding homework. The purpose of homework is to promote student learning and academic achievement and to develop time management, study skills, and responsibility. All students at Far Hills are expected to complete assigned homework in addition to the academic responsibilities that they have during the school day.

Homework in the Lower School (Preschool–Grade 4)

Research indicates that there are few academic benefits to homework for younger students; however, there are non-academic benefits, including developing study skills, time management, responsibility, and the ability to stay on task. The primary goal of homework in the Lower School is to develop the habits and skills necessary to become a good student. The academic goals include learning math facts, vocabulary, and spelling and developing reading fluency and comprehension. Teachers are responsible for assigning high-quality homework and not “time-wasting, rote, repetitive tasks … that lack clear instructional or learning purposes.”

Since students work at different rates, homework in the Lower School is framed in terms of time Students should stop doing homework if they get frustrated or when they hit the maximum time limit because of the danger of decreasing their motivation and interest, which potentially impairs performance and promotes a negative attitude towards homework. Parents should communicate with the teacher when this happens. Homework should never get in the way of students getting adequate exercise or sufficient sleep. If

students complete their homework well under the suggested time limit, then parents, students, and teachers can collaborate to adjust. The goal, ultimately, is for students to retain what they learned during the day and to be primed to learn more the next day.

Reading for pleasure, playing games with family members, and assisting in household chores, for example, provide for the continual learning at home that feeds the learning at school. Students in the Lower School need time after school to play, exercise, engage in other non-academic activities, spend time with family (especially meals), and sleep which the research shows has an enduring, positive impact on learning

Lower School Homework Guidelines

● Homework will be assigned Monday–Thursday.

● Students should read regularly for pleasure, especially over the weekend.

Preschool and Kindergarten: 10–15 minutes of the parent reading with the child and/or homeschool connection activities The key is for students to engage with their parents in learning activities, so families are also encouraged to play cards or board games, for example

Grades 1–2: 10–20 minutes. The key is for students to engage with their parents in learning activities, so families are also encouraged to play cards or board games, for example.

Grades 3–4: 30–40 minutes. The key is for students to engage in meaningful and developmentally appropriate educational activities that reinforce classroom learning

Homework in the Upper School (Grades 5–8)

Research supports that older students gain more academic benefit from homework, and yet too much homework diminishes its effectiveness A goal of homework in the Upper School is to increase student achievement and develop the skills and habits necessary to manage homework at Far Hills and in preparation for high school. While the teachers have an obligation to assign high-quality homework and to space and coordinate assignments, students will, nonetheless, experience inflection points where they have more homework or a number of assessments in a concentrated period of time. Students should stop homework if they are exhausted or excessively stressed and should communicate with their teacher and advisor

Students in the Upper School need time after school to play, exercise, engage in other non-academic activities, spend time with family (especially meals), and sleep which the research shows has an enduring, positive impact on learning.

Upper School Homework Guidelines

● Homework will be assigned nightly Monday Friday and on most weekends.

● Students are always encouraged to read for pleasure, especially over the weekend.

● Teachers should assign homework only if essential to student learning.

Posting Policies for Website

● Lower School. Regular updates on class activities will be posted through the Seesaw app.

● Upper School.

○ Teachers will maintain Google Classroom pages with current information on assignments and homework.

○ Changes to assignments CAN & WILL be made on a daily basis.

○ Grades will be posted on PowerSchool in a timely manner The grade book will be open to parents and students during the academic school year.

Homework for Absent Children

If a student is ill, their parent/guardian may ask for assignments or wait until the student is able to return to school to make up work. Additionally, students may contact teachers via email after school hours. A student should not contact a teacher by telephone after school hours. Since Google Classroom pages are updated regularly, students and parents are encouraged to use this resource as it will often serve as the most efficient way to obtain assignments and resources.

Grading System

Upper School (Grades 5–8) Grading System

Relative value of homework, quizzes, tests, papers, and in-class performance is determined by each teacher. The criteria for grading in each course are explained to the students at the beginning of each year. Questions about a grade should be directed to the teacher involved.

Any student whose final grade is “C-” or below may be required to do summer work to prepare for the next course in that subject Any student who fails a course for the year will be required to complete the requirements of the course prior to being promoted to the next grade level.

Students in Grades 5–8 receive achievement grades, which are translated from numerical averages as described below:

Lower School Grading System

Throughout the school year, teachers will keep students and parents apprised of the student’s progress. Electronic reports will be issued at the end of each trimester for Preschool–Grade 4. It is recommended that parents discuss the report with their child, age appropriately. It is not necessary for students to try to read the report, as it is written for an adult audience.

Trimester Reports: Effort and achievement marks are given in each subject area

Effort:

Consistent

Sometimes

Infrequent

Achievement:

Exceeds grade-level objectives

Meets grade-level objectives

Developing grade-level objectives

Beginning grade-level objective

Not Applicable

Promotion Standards | Upper School

Upper School students are expected to earn passing grades in all major subjects. With few exceptions, an Upper School student will not be considered eligible for promotion if s/he has a failure in any subject.

A student whose academic performance initially results in the School considering the student to be ineligible for promotion may be considered for promotion with the recommendation of the Upper School faculty and final approval of the Administration if he/she is tutored under the direction of an authorized instructor and passes a final examination administered by the department involved.

Instructional Specialists

Language arts and math specialists are available to assist teachers and students in learning strategies for reading, writing, organization, and mathematics.

In addition, students in Grades 5–8 have access to similar services as coordinated through the Division Office and Matthew’s Academic Learning Lab (M A L L ) As the workload and cognitive demands increase in the higher grades, additional scaffolding for students may be required at certain times. The M.A.L.L. learning specialists work with students and teachers to support students’ classroom learning and assist classroom teachers in helping students learn how to learn.

Students may access the M.A.L.L. as follows:

● Drop in: All students in Grades 5–8 may access the M.A.L.L. during the early morning, during designated breaks, and during conference periods.

● Push-in: Teachers of the M A L L will “push-in” to classrooms to assist teachers and students on an as needed basis as determined by the faculty and learning specialists.

● Homework Club: The Extended Day Program provides students in Grades 2–8 with homework support.

● There is a three-step process to determine if a student is able to access additional services, as follows:

1 A student must be recommended to the Division Director for the

M A L L by his/her classroom teacher/s for additional services

2. A student must have recent formal educational testing in order to be considered eligible for additional services.

3. The Far Hills Learning Team evaluates student testing and performance and makes recommendations for differentiated instruction in a Far Hills Learning Plan. Both the student’s parents and the Learning Specialist must discuss and sign the Far Hills Learning Plan for its implementation.

4 Recommendations outlined within an IEP/504 Plan will be used only as a guideline for the support the M.A.L.L. can commit to offer in our Far Hills Learning Plan. Work is done individually and in small groups. Instructional specialists routinely consult with classroom teachers regarding pedagogical strategies for students.

Standardized Testing

Standardized tests are used for a range of purposes, from helping schools and parents pinpoint areas of students’ strengths and weaknesses, to completing the picture in the application process to secondary schools The tests have changed considerably over the years. Perhaps the biggest change is the inclusion of writing on many tests. Once thought to be too subjective in its assessment of students, test makers are beginning to see the merit in including such a critical piece of a student’s learning. In Preschool–Grade 2, students engage in a variety of developmentally-appropriate assessments to measure their learning and growth and to inform the teacher of overall student progress; for example, one assessment frequently used is the Fountas and Pinnell Reading Benchmark Assessment Far Hills conducts standardized testing at regular intervals throughout Grades 3–8. Test scores are viewed as one of many indicators of a student’s growth and development. Looking at test scores in isolation only serves to create an unrealistic view of a student’s ability and achievement. The School uses test results, among other purposes, to help create strategies for addressing the individual differences of its students.

● The CTP by the Educational Records Bureau Test (ERB) is given to students in Grades 3–8 each spring.. The test measures student aptitude in verbal, quantitative, and total ability It also measures student achievement in a variety of quantitative and verbal areas

● The ERB Writing Assessment Program (WrAP) Standardized Test is given each

winter to Grades 4 and 7 students Developed by the Educational Records Bureau, this test measures our students’ expressive writing skills in specific genres

Library

The library is a wonderful resource available to Far Hills parents, faculty, staff, and students. It houses an extensive collection of books, including professional/child development titles of interest to parents and a section of secondary school catalogs. The collection also includes DVDs and videos. Members of the Far Hills community are welcome in the library at any time during the school day Parents and all members of the Far Hills community may check books out of the library; however, magazines and reference materials are not to leave the library unless the Librarian has granted special permission. The Librarian is happy to make recommendations and point out the newest acquisitions. The Librarian also assists students with developing their inquiry and research skills. Library books are generally checked out for two weeks and may be renewed. When a book is overdue, a notice is sent to the student’s classroom. A follow-up phone call or postcard is sent to the parents if the book is not returned For lost books, the replacement cost plus a non-refundable handling fee may be charged to the student’s account

Summer Reading and Math Projects

All students are required to complete summer reading and math assignments. Each student’s teacher distributes work guidelines and expectations in June. Books for summer reading must be purchased on their own or borrowed from a local library. Students are expected to arrive on the first day of each school year with the projects completed. Since the work required for each workbook takes time, the School advises students to begin their summer reading and math projects well before September 1.

Preschool and Kindergartners construct a “Book About Me,” which should also accompany them on their first day of school Kindergartners create a summer math journal that they also bring on their first day.

Secondary School Counseling

The objective of the counseling process is to work effectively in guiding students and families to school choices that best meet individual needs in the years following Far Hills. Parents and students should familiarize themselves with the steps involved in the

secondary school application process and work closely with the Director of Secondary School Placement.

Graduation

Far Hills’ Graduation provides a special opportunity for friends, relatives, and their extended family to celebrate the unique gifts of the graduating students. Graduation is a special, formal occasion Formal dress code is required for all Upper School students

Boys are asked to wear a navy blue blazer with white trousers, a white dress shirt, and the FH tie, which will be gifted to them at the Green and White Dinner. Dress shoes, either lace-up or slip-on, are preferred.

Girls are asked to wear a dress that is pure white in color Dresses should be age-appropriate, knee-length, or longer, and must have sleeves, whether capped, short, or long sleeves. Sleeveless dresses are not allowed, and dress length will be strictly enforced. A FH pendant will be gifted to the girls at the Green and White Dinner, and we ask that it be worn to the graduation ceremony. Dress shoes, including open-toed sandals, are preferred. However, we advise against high-heeled shoes given the tiered seating on stage and crossing over our beloved bridge for their final time.

The Graduation date is published in the school calendar. Rarely, but sometimes, due to excessive snow days is the date of Graduation changed. Should this happen, the new date would be announced before Spring Break.

VI. LEADERSHIP AND SERVICE LEARNING

There are many opportunities for students to develop leadership skills. Student clubs and activities and service learning are just a few of the ways that students assume leadership positions

Service Learning, Leadership, and Empathy

Far Hills’ community service philosophy is to instill in students an awareness of the needs of the community, to foster the idea of giving to others, and to offer leadership opportunities wherever possible outside of the classroom The school hopes that this aspect of student life will enhance the sensitivity of all students and give each contributor a sense of their own effectiveness and responsibility.

Though related in spirit, “community service” and “service learning” are not the same thing While both are focused on helping people in our community, service learning is a more active process, as it encourages students to explore cause and effect. For example, our students in Grade 2 study empathy and understanding what it might be like to walk in another’s shoes by completing a year-long in-depth research of immigration. Upper School students pursue various service learning experiences. The connection between “service” and “learning” is clear to our students, and that is the intrinsic value of the program; it helps prepare our students to be informed, compassionate citizens of the world

Additionally, there are numerous ways in which parents can contribute to the School’s community life, a few of which are listed in the “Special Events” section of this Handbook. For a more comprehensive list and/or to find out more information as to who to contact regarding specific activities, please feel free to contact the Development Office or the Chair of the Parents Committee.

Student Government

The Student Government is the voice of the student body. Upper School students are elected to the offices of President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer Certain academic and behavioral criteria constitute candidate eligibility and are communicated to students prior to the election. A formal election, involving a public speech from each candidate, is held each fall. In the Upper School, each homeroom will elect a

representative to the Student Organization who will represent the opinions and concerns of their grade level. The Student Government meets regularly.

Many students will have the opportunity to become involved in the Student Government by holding an office or serving on a specific committee.

Student Activities and Clubs

Students have the opportunity to participate in many activities at school While the list of activities changes periodically according to the interests of the student body, the activities and clubs listed below have been part of the School for a number of years: Music Conservatory, Far Hills Philharmonic, Jazz Band, Performing and Visual Arts (including Holiday Concerts, Talent Assemblies, Kestrel House, Peregrine and Lower School Musicals and Art Show, Student Government, Service Groups, The Yearbook, and Collectors’ Items (the school’s literary magazine).

Individual Causes/Outside Fundraising

Service to people and organizations outside of the School is an important learning experience aimed at developing a deeper understanding of one’s commitment to the community As part of this “outreach,” students may be involved in fundraising, gathering food and clothing donations, or helping disadvantaged children through school initiatives.

On many occasions, we are asked to mobilize the FH community in support of outside causes ranging from local charities to international crises. Unfortunately, we must decline these requests. It is not because we do not see the value in these causes, but because we feel that, out of fairness, if we say yes to one student or family, we must say yes to all. It is a practice that would quickly take on a life of its own, so as a result we do not permit individual requests for student-specific causes.

If there is a project or an organization you feel would be a strong partner for FH, please reach out to your Division Director or the Development Office for further conversation. In all cases, however, we ask that you refrain from using the parent directory for broad fundraising efforts unrelated to Far Hills Country Day School.

Student Publications

Many of our Upper School students participate annually in the publication of our award-winning Yearbook and Collectors’ Items, our student literary magazine (cited for its excellence by the National Council of Teachers of English) All Upper School students are encouraged to participate in each publication. Students may apply for the editor position of each publication in the spring prior to their Grade 8 year.

VII. SPECIAL EVENTS

School-Sponsored Social Events

Over the course of the year, Far Hills hosts a number of events that serve to strengthen our community. Some of these events are fundraisers, others are not. Listed below are the signature events that tend to be held each year or, in the case of our Annual Fundraiser, every other year. Other, less formal events are planned and communicated throughout the year. In addition, the Parents Committee and the Falcon Dads Club will periodically host events for our community, as well We look forward to having you join us

Parent Social

Typically held the first Friday night of the school year; the Parent Social is an opportunity for the entire parent community to come together for refreshments and conversation

Back to School Night

This night is scheduled in the early fall for parents of students in Grades Preschool–8. Parents meet their child(ren)’s teachers and hear about the curriculum for the year ahead. The evening provides valuable insight to your child’s experience and all parents, especially those new to the School, are urged to attend.

The Book Fair

The Book Fair is held on campus each fall. This event stimulates awareness of the importance of reading as a foundation for learning. Books may be purchased for the school library or individual classrooms In addition, books for adults and children of all ages may be purchased A percentage of all sales support the overall fundraising efforts of the school

The Far Hills Annual Fundraiser

Each year, the Development Office and parent volunteers organize a large fundraising special event The theme and program of the event may change year-to-year, but the goal for the event will always stay the same: celebrate the Far Hills community while providing

Golf and Pickleball Classic

Held annually, the Far Hills Golf and Pickleball Classic, is an opportunity to tee off with members of the extended community in support of the school. We are proud to host our outing at various area country clubs. Golfers of all levels can try their luck for a hole-in-one or longest drive at one of the designated holes. All golfers and guests are invited to an evening reception for cocktails, dinner, and awards.

Please contact the Development Office if you are interested in getting involved in organizing these community-wide events to benefit the School.

Ropes and Adventure Trip Programs

The school’s campus boasts a Ropes Course with high elements and low elements. The Ropes Course activities encourage our students to learn about sensible risk-taking and trust in a fully supervised environment

The Far Hills Adventure Trip program is a unique, fully supervised program that also encourages sensible risk-taking, an important preparation for life’s challenges These off-campus trips allow students to experience the outdoors and learn about themselves and each other with adventures that include camping, hiking, backpacking, sailing, and climbing. The Adventure Trip program is a long-standing tradition in our Upper School, and it builds friendships and leadership skills that last a lifetime.

School Trips

A school’s curriculum is much more than what is taught and learned in the classroom. It also includes the programs and events that support the classroom experience, which is what we call “co-curriculum.” Far from being “extra,” we view these experiences as an integral part of the Far Hills experience.

School trips, otherwise known as field trips, may be planned by homeroom teachers or

by subject teachers and are communicated to the grade-level coordinators and approved by the Division Directors. All students are required to submit permission slips signed by parents/guardians to be eligible to participate in school trips.

School Gatherings Off Campus (Not Sponsored by School)

In the younger grades, party invitations should not be delivered or discussed at school unless all classmates are included. The misuse of party invitations in a school setting can be very hurtful to students. The invitations themselves can offer all parents an important teaching opportunity with students on dealing with the feelings of others. No one likes to be excluded, and often, parties create these feelings in students who are not included in the celebration.

It is important to remember, through their quest for acceptance from peers and their desire for greater independence, that students still need clear boundaries. For all age groups, we recommend adequate supervision.

VIII. DAILY LIFE AT SCHOOL

Advisors

The Upper School Advisory Program establishes and sustains connections among students, faculty, and parents that support academic and personal growth. Partnership between parents and the advisor enhances support for young adolescents, affirming successes, and addressing areas for improvement and growth

Each Upper School student in Grades 5–8 has an advisor who takes a personal interest in the student’s classes, sports, friends, and activities. The advisor serves as an advocate and mentor and supervises academics, gives advice, answers questions, discusses problems, and keeps in touch with parents and teachers The advisor serves as a resource and an advocate for the student and should be the first point of contact for all social/emotional issues and academic issues that are broader than a specific subject. For single-subject concerns, the classroom teacher remains the first point of contact, but including the advisor in all communications will help facilitate their work with the student.

School Closing and Delayed Openings

Inclement Weather

In the event that School must be closed or its opening delayed due to inclement weather, Far Hills will use a mass notification system to call, email, and/or text each family with a message. The message is also posted on the School’s website. Far Hills will implement remote instruction after two snow days or weather related closures.

Occasionally, a two-hour delayed opening is warranted. At such time, students should arrive at school between 10:00–10:15 a.m. unless instructed otherwise.

Force Majeure

The School may close temporarily, operate in a limited manner, or implement a distance learning program in response to events such as acts of God, war, governmental action, acts of terrorism, epidemic, pandemic or other events beyond the School’s control (“Force Majeure Events”). If a Force Majeure event requires a change in the School’s operations,

tuition will not be refunded

These circumstances may further cause a modification to the academic calendar including cancelation or rescheduling of school trips and extra-curricular activities.

Vacations

Consult the school calendar for dates of school breaks Family vacations should be made with attention to the school’s published calendar The School strongly discourages family trips that result in students missing school. Such absences are unexcused, undermine the School’s commitment to excellence, and put students at an academic disadvantage (please see guidelines for unexcused absences).

Faculty In-Service/Professional Development Days and Meetings

At various times during the year, School will close for faculty professional development. Consult the school calendar for exact dates.

Early Arrival

Parents should plan to drop off students on regular school days between 7:30 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. Earlier arrivals are discouraged, and students may only be brought to school before 7:30 a.m. if special arrangements have been made with the Division Director.

Drop Off/Pick Up

Please refer to the arrival and dismissal procedures emailed to parents each year. Parents picking up students must follow the school’s car line procedures.

● Parents are expected to add “approved drivers” into SchoolPass. Only drivers noted in the app will be allowed to pick up your child(ren);

● Parents with more than one student in the School should arrive at the latest applicable dismissal time;

● All students are to be picked up promptly at the designated time or at the time designated by the coaches following an athletic event; and

● Parents (or drivers) assume full responsibility for their children and must keep them under direct supervision as soon as they are dismissed to their care. Do not let them out of the vehicle to play in the grass, in the amphitheater, or elsewhere outside while waiting for an older sibling to be dismissed, for example

App-Based Transportation for Students

This policy outlines the procedures and guidelines to be followed when parents or guardians request that their child be transported to or from school using App-Based ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft. Any such transportation arrangements must meet the school’s safety and security standards Please see our policy and the agreement linked here

Written Request

● Parents or guardians who wish to use ride-sharing services for their child’s transportation to or from school must make the request in writing to the school administration. This request should be submitted with adequate advance notice. Prior to the student’s departure via the ride-sharing service, the parent or guardian shall ensure that the administration has been provided with the driver name and license place number.

Drop-off and Pick-up Locations

● Drop-off and pick-up locations shall be in a safe, visible, and easily accessible area of the school premises, and shall not disrupt the normal school traffic flow

Supervision and Accountability

● The parent or guardian retains full responsibility for the safety and supervision of their child during ride-share transportation. The school will not have any liability or supervisory role in these arrangements

Dismissal Requests

For students who are to be dismissed early, parents must utilize the Early Dismissal feature on the SchoolPass app. Preschool–Grade 1 students must leave via the Piazza entrance. All other students must wait in the reception area, sign out, and leave via the school’s Main eEntrance with their parent/guardian or individual authorized to pick them up If siblings are picked up at the same time, please use the door of the youngest student. Under no circumstances may a student wait outside the School.

Extended Day Program

The Preschool–Grade 8 Extended Day program offers the opportunity for students to remain at school after dismissal time The hours for Extended Day are from dismissal to 6:00 p.m.

Parents of all students must complete the Extended Day registration form available on the Far Hills Website; students needing to use the program for any reason will be able to do so. A completed registration is required; DROP-IN's on an as needed or emergency basis are allowed and will be registered and billed per the published format and fee schedule.

The expectation is that students will be picked up at the appropriate dismissal time. Any Preschool–8 students not picked up by 4:00 p.m. will be sent to Extended Day at an additional charge as mentioned in the paragraph above.

Student Lockers

All student storage areas and athletic lockers are the property of the School and are subject to search and inspection. Personal materials are to be stored in lockers. All books and notebooks should be properly identified A student should never open another student’s locker Decorations must be in the spirit of good taste and judgment (at the discretion of the Upper School Director and Faculty) and need to be taken down within two weeks of the end of the academic year.

Lockers should be kept neat and organized. The area around student lockers is the students’ responsibility and should be kept clean. With the exception of bottled water, food may not be kept in lockers.

Search and Seizure

Far Hills reserves the right to conduct a search of a student that is reasonable in scope and/or a search of their locker, on school premises at any time if Far Hills has reasonable suspicion to believe the student possesses an item that pertains to a potential criminal offense under federal law, under the laws of the State of New Jersey, or under Far Hills policy

Food Service

Far Hills has contracted with BROCK food services to provide lunches to students in Grades Kindergarten–Grade 8 on a daily basis and optional hot or cold meals for Preschool at an additional fee. Preschool and Kindergarten lunches must be ordered online, a week in advance. To accommodate a variety of ages and tastes, there are many lunch options offered. If medical or dietary restrictions require a student to provide a special lunch from home, please contact the School Nurse (Please see food allergies under Student Health Services.) Under no circumstances should a student bring a lunch containing “goodies” not considered a regular part of the school menu (e.g., soda, desserts, etc.). Lunch menus will be available here.

While Far Hills strives to address the well-being of all Piazza children with allergies and to limit the risk of allergic reactions, it cannot guarantee an allergen-free environment Students who have anaphylaxis food allergies other than peanuts, tree nuts, and sesame may not order from the Cafe for lunch/snack. These students must bring in their own peanut, tree nut, and sesame-free lunch and snack. Please reference the Food Allergies provision of this Handbook for more information.

Athletics

Our program strives to create a culture where athletes have a positive, character-building athletic experience that leads to better athletes and better people. Our mantra is "Best Effort, Best Attitude, Best Teammate" in all that we do. Our "Win the Day” philosophy allows athletes to work hard, learn from mistakes, and have the opportunity to improve every day. Physical Education encompasses classes for all students in Preschool–Grade 5. In Grades 6–8, students are introduced to interscholastic sports; students select the sport in which they wish to participate for each season. Participation in all athletic contests is expected.

Eligibility

All students must have on file a medical form completed and signed by a medical doctor stating that the student is physically fit to participate in physical education classes and athletics. No one will be allowed to participate until this form is on file.

Programs

Fall Winter Spring Soccer Field Hockey Cross Country Tennis

*Cross-Fit

+Mountain Biking Fencing Basketball Volleyball

*Cross-Fit Ice Hockey*** Lacrosse Tennis Track & Field

*Cross-Fit +Mountain Biking

* This activity does not compete inter-scholastically and does not require after school commitments.

*** Participants must skate or have experience on a competitive team outside of school

+ This activity requires the student to have a mountain bike and all necessary equipment; this activity does not require after-school commitments.

Sportsmanship

Athletics enhance the overall educational experience and build well-rounded students and

leaders Integrity, fairness, and respect these are the principles of good sportsmanship With them, the spirit of competition thrives, fueled by honest rivalry, courteous relations, and graceful acceptance of the results. Sportsmanship goals should include:

● Developing a sense of dignity under all circumstances;

● Respecting the rules of the game, the officials who administer the rules, and their decisions;

● Respecting opponents as fellow students and acknowledging them for striving to do their best while you seek to do your best at the same time;

● Looking at athletic participation as a potentially beneficial learning experience, whether you win or lose;

● Educating other students and fans to understand the rules of the game and the value of sportsmanship; and

● Accepting the personal responsibility that comes with your actions on the court/field.

The School also encourages parents to act in a sportsmanlike manner. As such, the School hopes parents will:

● Realize that athletics are part of the educational experience and that the benefits of participation go beyond the final score of a game;

● Encourage students to perform their best, just as with their class work, knowing that others will always turn in better or lesser performances;

● Participate in POSITIVE cheers and encourage our athletes, and discourage any cheer that would redirect that focus;

● Learn, understand, and respect the rules of the game, the officials who administer them and their decisions;

● Respect the task our coaches face as teachers, and support them as they strive to educate our youth;

● Respect our opponents as students, and acknowledge them for striving to do their best; and

● Remember that we would all like to be victorious in every situation we face in life, but just like in athletic competition, sometimes we fall short.

Participation

Far Hills believes all eligible students should participate and play. It is expected that students will attend all practices and games. In addition to a positive attitude and their best effort, students are expected to demonstrate their desire to contribute to the team by having proper clothing. Failure to fulfill these obligations could result in forfeiting game time; this is at the coach’s discretion.

Please note that pick-up times on game days may be late, so we ask that families not schedule any other activities (music lessons, tutors, etc.) that may conflict with the game schedule.

If you have any questions regarding expectations, please contact the school’s Athletic Director.

Locker Room

At the beginning of each school year, all students in Grades 5–8 are assigned a Physical Education (“PE”) locker PE lockers are designated for PE clothing and equipment only Appropriate locker room behavior is expected at all times.

Equipment

Students are responsible for all equipment that is issued by the School. The replacement cost or repair cost of any equipment that is lost, stolen, damaged, or not returned will be billed to the student who was issued that equipment

Upper School Athletic Equipment Needs

All students are required to have Far Hills athletic dress code compliant clothes for daily practices. These items include Far Hills shorts, t-shirt, and a nylon warm-up suit or sweat suit. Mouthguards are recommended for all sports. The following is a list of additional equipment that students are responsible for obtaining prior to their first practice:

Fall

● Tennis: racquet, sneakers, proper tennis apparel

● Cross Country: running sneakers

● Soccer: shin guards, rubber/plastic cleats, sneakers, and dark green practice/game soccer socks Athletic cup and supporter are recommended

● Field Hockey: stick (recommended but not required), mouthguard, and rubber/plastic cleats

● Cross-Fit: sneakers

● Mountain Bike: bike, helmet, knee and elbow pads are required

Winter

● Basketball: basketball sneakers (athletic cup and supporter are recommended)

● Volleyball: court sneakers

● Ice Hockey: all pads, gloves, helmet, stick, mouthguard and skates (athletic cup and supporter

are recommended) Students are expected to be members of hockey programs outside of School.

● Cross-Fit: sneakers

● Fencing: sneakers

● Mountain Bike: bike and helmet are required. knee and elbow pads are required

Spring

● Boys’ Lacrosse: stick, gloves, arm pads, shoulder pads and mouthguard. Rib pads are recommended. Athletic cup and supporter are also recommended.

● Girls’ Lacrosse: stick (recommended but not required), goggles, mouthguard, and cleats

● Track & Field: running sneakers, track & field sneakers

● Tennis: racquet, sneakers, and proper tennis apparel

● Cross-Fit: sneakers

● Mountain Bike: bike, helmet, knee and elbow pads are required

PE Clothing and Dress Code

A PE uniform, described below, is to be purchased by each student in Grades 5–8. This is the only attire to be worn during PE, unless the sport that students are playing requires further equipment.

Uniform

● Far Hills shorts

● Far Hills t-shirt

● Sneakers (or molded cleats for outdoors)

● Far Hills sweat suit (for cooler weather)

Ordering PE Uniforms

Physical Education and athletic practice clothing can be purchased at the Falcon’s Find School Store.

Medical and Other Excuses

Any student who is to be excused from physical education or athletics must bring in a medical excuse signed by a doctor and present it to the School Nurse For the first day of

an excused absence from PE, a parent note is acceptable For excused absences from PE for more than one day, a doctor’s note is necessary.

Scholastic Student-Athlete Safety Act

The New Jersey Department of Education, pursuant to the Scholastic Student-Athlete Safety Act, requires all student-athletes and cheerleaders participating in interscholastic sports to receive annually the Opioid Use and Misuse Educational Fact Sheet and Sudden Cardiac Death in Young Athletes pamphlet Parents of student-athletes under the age of eighteen must provide a signed acknowledgement of receipt of this information.

Concussions

Pursuant to state law (effective October 2017), students who participate in interscholastic or intramural sports programs who sustain or are suspected of having sustained a concussion or other head injury while engaged in a sports competition or practice must be immediately removed from the competition or practice and may not return to competition or practice until evaluated and cleared by a physician Students must bring in a note, signed by a doctor, clearing them to play, and present it to the School Nurse before returning to competition or practice.

Communication

Please refer to the Parent Resource Board or the Far Hills app, which are updated regularly, or call the front office for last minute changes due to weather and daily events. We recommend checking the athletic calendar for updates before leaving for a game.

Field Day

The long-held tradition of Field Day also continues to be a celebration of community and school spirit that honors students’ participation in fun games and athletic events

Sportsmanship-like conduct, individual effort, and team camaraderie are highlighted as students share the excitement of the “Green and White” experience. Families are assigned to either the Far Hills Team Green or the Far Hills Team White when they enter the school and remain members of that team for the duration of their time at FH.

IX. STUDENT HEALTH SERVICES

School Nurse

There is at least one School Nurse scheduled to be on campus during the school day. She evaluates students who become ill during the school day and contacts their parents when deemed appropriate. If the Nurse is unavailable, the Upper and Lower School administrative assistants and faculty members will be on hand to assist with this service We err towards a conservative evaluation of sickness. Students who develop an illness during school hours will need to be picked up by their parents. Please see the Emergencies Policy for additional information.

The School Nurse is available in the Health Office Mondays–Fridays. Nursing services are provided from 8:00 a m – 4:00 p m The Nurse is also responsible for ensuring that all student medical forms are current and on file

School Social and Emotional Support

The School employs a full-time Social-Emotional Learning Specialist and School Counselor who works in tandem with the classroom teacher to provide support for students. This counselor is an LCSW and will collaborate with teachers to craft age-appropriate lessons based on the pressing issues and needs of the children.

In addition, the School offers limited services of a psychologist, who is available to meet with students and to consult with the school community regarding mental health issues. The psychologist is available during scheduled hours and in crisis situations when immediate care is needed. The psychologist is bound by rules of confidentiality and the duty to warn as established by the American Mental Counselors Association Applicable fees for any non-routine services are determined between the psychologist and the family, which are to be paid directly to the psychologist.

Medications at School

If a student needs medication during school hours, the student’s parent/guardian and physician must fill out the “Medication Authorization by the School Nurse” form. No medication, whether prescription or over-the-counter, will be administered without this completed form.

● All prescribed and over-the-counter medication must be brought to the Health Office by the parent/guardian in the original labeled bottle or container with the prescription information affixed and the attached authorization form filled out by the parent/guardian and the physician

● If the medication is to be used on an “as needed basis,” the order should clearly describe the conditions under which the medication is to be used.

● Only the School Nurse, nurse substitute, a designee of the School Nurse, or the student’s parent/guardian may administer medication (including epinephrine) to a student

● “Medication Authorization by the School Nurse” forms are available in the Health Office and from the school website These forms will remain available to families during the entire school year.

● No student may keep medication on his/her possession. The only two exceptions are inhalers and EpiPens, provided that proper forms are filled out by the doctor indicating the student has demonstrated the ability to understand and use medication The Health Office must be notified that the medication was administered.

Health Records, Regulations, and Access

School health records serve two purposes: information must be on file with the School to comply with state health and immunization regulations, and the School requires a current record for each student that will facilitate the handling of an emergency situation State regulations require that, upon entering school for the first time, each child has a complete physical exam. State law mandates that each student’s immunizations are current or s/he may be asked to leave school.

Specific information about the New Jersey Department of Public Health immunization requirements is available from the state, your physician’s office and/or the School Nurse. Each student must complete and return a Health and Immunization Form on an annual basis. These forms are available on the School Website should your child's physician request to complete it prior to August All students whose medical forms are not completed and submitted to the Health Office will not be allowed to start the current school year until all forms are submitted and reviewed by the school nurse.

Parents are asked to provide the School with a great deal of information about their children’s physical and emotional health In part, this information is obtained to comply with state law; it is also needed to keep the School well-informed of the health of all students. Far Hills is sensitive to the privacy of this information and is committed to protecting the confidentiality of students and their families by restricting the use of and access to this information for necessary medical management only.

Food Allergies

Food allergies have become increasingly common over the past several years. Therefore, we have spent much time formulating the following policies and procedures to ensure the safety of every student.

The safety and well-being of our students are of primary importance and shape our policy regarding anaphylactic food allergies. Students with food allergies face a lifetime of managing their condition in varied dining environments, so the Far Hills’ policy intentionally gives the students more responsibility for making choices as they get older. BROCK Dining Services, our food service provider, is committed to providing a safe, healthy dining environment for all members of the Far Hills community and follows guidelines and practices recommended by FARE (Food Allergy Research & Education). BROCK does not make special meals for individuals but creates varied menus that feature foods safe for students with allergies. Parents of students with food allergies are encouraged to contact the chef-manager for BROCK Dining Services and/or the Far Hills’ School Nurse to ask specific questions and to review menus To ensure safety and maximize the number of students able to eat food prepared in the Cafe, BROCK will not prepare or serve foods containing peanuts, tree nuts, or sesame.

Far Hills strives to address the well-being of all Piazza children with allergies and to limit the risk of allergic reactions. Students who have anaphylaxis food allergies other than Peanuts, tree nuts, and sesame may not order from the Cafe for lunch/snack. These students must bring in their own peanut, tree nut, and sesame-free lunch and snack.

The Far Hills Food Allergy Policy is as follows:

● Weaskthateveryonehelpustomaintainasafepeanut,treenut,andsesameenvironment bynotbringingorsendingfoodscontainingtreenuts,peanuts,sesame,ortheirproducts

and/orcontaminantstoschoolorfoodprocessedinafacilitythatcontainspeanuts,treenuts, orsesame.

● StudentsinPreschooleatintheirclassrooms.Seatingisdesignatedbytheteacher intheclassroomasappropriatewithregardtofoodallergies.

● Nofoodcontainingpeanuts,treenutsorsesamemaybeprepared,servedoreaten intheCafe.Students,faculty,andstaffbringinglunchfromhomemaynotbring foodcontainingpeanuts,treenutsorsesameorbringinfoodfromafacilitythat usespeanuts,treenuts,orsesame

● Peanuts,treenuts,sesameand/orfoodscontainingthemortheirproductsmaynot bebroughttoschoolforanyreasonincludingPreschoollunches,beforeandafter schoolactivities,all(homeandaway)sportingevents,snacks,anddecorations

● StudentsinKindergarten–Grade4withanaphylacticfoodallergies(requiringan EpiPen)forfoodsotherthanpeanuts,treenuts,andsesamemusteatfoodbrought fromhome TheymaynoteatanyfoodprovidedbyBROCKoranyoutsidesource Studentswithfoodallergiescaneatwiththeirfellowstudentsatregulartablesin theCafeandwilluseadisposablepaperplacemattokeeptheirspacefreeof potentialallergens

● StudentsinGrades5–8areresponsibleformakingappropriatefoodchoiceswith regardtotheirallergiesandmayeatanywhereintheCafe.

Thankyoufordoingyourpartinfollowingtheallergypolicyandhelpingustocreateasafeand healthyenvironmentforall.

Birthday Celebration Snacks

Families can send commercially labeled snacks that are free of peanuts, tree nuts, and sesame, and not manufactured in facilities that use these allergens, for your child’s birthday. Homemade snacks and bakery treats are not allowed.

Procedure:

On the celebration day, a parent, guardian, or caregiver should bring the snack to the designated table in the Cafe near the Main Entrance.

A member of our Celebration Allergy Team, including our Health Office Team and Chef, will review and approve the snack before it can be taken to the classroom.

Please check labels carefully each time you send in a snack. If the snack is not acceptable, it will be sent home with your child at the end of the day. Below are some food

suggestions that are acceptable:

2024–25 Allergen Safe Treats for School Celebrations

● Rice Krispy Treats

● Oreo Cookies (Original)

● Better Bites

● Red Plate Foods

● School Safe

● A La Mode Ice Cream

To ensure a safe environment, avoid sending foods containing tree nuts, peanuts, sesame, or their products, and those processed in facilities with these allergens. For more information about our food allergy policy, please read the above section.

If you have questions, please contact our nurses directly, matters will be addressed on a case-by-case basis.

Asthma Management

Parents of students with asthma should contact the School Nurse prior to the start of school to discuss an asthma management plan.

Fever

Any temperature above 100 5 Fahrenheit is considered a fever, and the student will be sent home They may return to school after being fever-free for 24 hours without any over-the-counter medication

Head Lice

It is the position of the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Harvard School of Public Policy, and the National Association of School Nurses that the management of head lice should not disrupt the educational process Lice are not a major health problem since they do not transmit diseases or cause permanent problems. Nonetheless, the School understands the unpleasantness of the condition and the desirability of limiting its spread across the school community. The parents of students who have been found to have nits or lice will be notified so treatment may begin. It will be at the discretion of the School Nurse whether to check other students or the whole classroom.

In all cases where nits have been found, the student must be treated before returning to school the following day. The School Nurse must evaluate the student before they return to the classroom. All nits must be removed by the seventh day following treatment if the student is to remain in school.

On occasion, exceptions from this guideline will occur, and the professional judgment of the School Nurse will be followed

Communicable Diseases Policy

Philosophy

Far Hills recognizes its obligation to protect the rights of individuals within the School community who have been diagnosed with a communicable disease; while at the same time protecting other individuals who are students and staff members of the School.

Additionally, Far Hills recognizes the need to provide ongoing education relative to communicable diseases and other illnesses and offers a program of ongoing education for the entire school community, including staff members, students, and parents of students.

Definitions

For the purposes of this policy, the following definitions apply:

A. “Student” means any person who enrolls for admission at, attends, or otherwise matriculates at the Far Hills Country Day School.

B. “Staff Member” means any person who is employed by, or otherwise works (including all volunteers) at Far Hills By way of illustration, and not limitation, staff shall include all teachers, teacher’s aides, food service workers, maintenance and custodial workers, office workers, and administrative workers, and consultants for the School.

C. “Communicable Diseases” means any condition or illness so defined under state law

D. “School Health Official” means the School Nurse and/or School Physician and shall include the Head of School and/or the Student’s teacher and any other individual responsible for that Student during periods of time when the School Nurse and/or physician is unavailable, or when the Student is away from school (i.e., during field trips and sporting events).

Communicable Diseases

A Pursuant to state law, if the Head of School or School Health Official learns that any individual (Student or Staff Member) enrolled or in attendance at the School is diagnosed with a Communicable Disease or any individual is suspected of having such a Communicable Disease, the Head of School or School Health Official shall report the diagnosis or suspected presence of the Communicable Disease to the local health official licensed for that purpose, or their designee, within 24 hours or whatever sooner time frame is prescribed by law (Note: HIV infection and/or AIDS are not classified as Communicable Diseases for the purposes of local health reporting.)

If the School Health Office learns of the diagnosis of an illness that is required to be reported under state law, the Head of School or School Health Official shall report the diagnosis or suspected presence directly to the NJ Department of Health and Senior Services within 24 hours or as otherwise required by law.

B. With respect to each Communicable Disease for which mandatory reporting applies, as set forth in section A above, the Head of School or School health official shall report the following information:

1. The name of the diagnosed/suspected disease;

2. The name, age, date of birth, gender, race, home address, and telephone number of the person ill or infected with such disease;

3 The date of onset of the illness;

4. Such other information as may be required by the State Department of Health.

C. If a Student has a suspected or diagnosed case of a Communicable Disease, they may not attend school while they are contagious. If the Student attends school with a suspected or diagnosed case of a Communicable Disease, he/she will be isolated from other students to the extent possible, and a parent will be called to pick the Student up. The Student may not return to school until the Student has a physician’s note indicating that they are no longer contagious. The School also reserves the right to handle other cases of potentially contagious Student illness in a similar fashion, whether or not the illness is a Communicable Disease.

The Handling Of Blood And Bodily Fluids

To prevent the transmission of diseases through contact with infected bodily fluids, the following procedures shall be followed at Far Hills:

A. All bodily fluids of all persons, including those without symptoms of illness or known diseases, should be considered potentially infectious. (Examples of bodily fluids: blood, mucus, saliva, respiratory secretions, tears, vomit, urine, feces, wound discharges.)

B. Any person who has weeping skin lesions will be excluded from school pending receipt of a physician’s note stating that the person is not contagious.

C. Any student who vomits while at school will be sent home. Students must remain home for 24 hours if vomiting is due to a virus

D. When possible, direct skin contact with body fluids should be avoided. Thus, disposable gloves, available through the nurse or custodian, should be worn when direct contact with body fluids is to be made.

E. After gloves are used, or after any contact with body fluids, hands should be washed thoroughly with soap and running water. All disposable items (e.g. gloves, bandages, etc.) soiled with body fluids should be deposited in a plastic bag or lined trash can, secured, and disposed of

F. Non-disposable items (e.g. clothing, non-disposable towels) soiled with body fluids should be secured in a plastic bag until washed or otherwise cleaned.

Emergencies

The School Nurse will attempt to contact parents regarding illness or injury, minor or serious, but in circumstances that warrant immediate attention when Far Hills is unable to reach the parents/guardians or the student’s physician, the school physician will be consulted to determine appropriate management In the event of a serious emergency, an ambulance will be called, the student will be taken to the nearest hospital emergency room, and parents/guardians will be notified as soon as possible. Emergency situations arising on campus will be referred to Morristown Medical Center, which is just a few miles from the School. Far Hills neither diagnoses nor treats injuries that occur on non-Far Hills time, but does offer temporary first aid for problems that arise during school. If a student complains of a persistent earache, sore throat, rashes, or joint pain, such complaints

warrant a call to the student’s pediatrician

Please remember, it is most important that the School have current home, work and cell phone numbers, and email addresses for parents/guardians, daycare providers, or others (relatives, friends, or neighbors) who assume temporary care of a student if the student’s parent(s) cannot be reached or if a parent/guardian is not available to pick up the student.

Infection Control Practices Policy

The School is committed to the health and safety of the school community. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the School has taken extensive measures to implement infection control. The School has and will continue to follow all Executive Orders issued by the New Jersey Governor. The School has and will continue to follow guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control, the State of New Jersey, and local health authorities. While the school cannot eliminate all risks, the School will continue to follow all guidelines by health authorities. This policy sets forth all measures that the School has taken and will continue to follow

Infection Control

Employees and students will be expected to follow guidelines, policies, and instructions issued by the School pertaining to the health and safety of the school community.

During a public health emergency, or wave of a pandemic or epidemic, if the School determines that a student presents a risk to the School community, the School may require that student to refrain from attending classes, field trips and extra-curricular activities, for a designated period of time. Under certain circumstances, the School may require the student to remain off-campus entirely. The School will work with parents to make appropriate arrangements.

Self-Reporting

Parents are required to report to the division director, homeroom teacher, or the School Nurse if the individual is experiencing symptoms of or has been diagnosed with the COVID-19 virus or any communicable disease designated as an epidemic, pandemic, or public health threat by state or federal authorities.

Screening

During all times there is a pandemic, epidemic or public health emergency, the School may screen employees and students which may include taking employees and students temperatures, and asking employees and students to provide information regarding any diagnosis, symptoms or contact with the virus.

The School will follow all guidelines by federal, state, and local health authorities during all times of a pandemic, epidemic, and other public health crises. Even by following all such guidelines, the School cannot guarantee that communicable diseases and viruses are eliminated. Therefore, parents and students understand there is an inherent risk of exposure and infection. The School may modify this policy and its practices to conform to the current environment.

Assumption of Risk

The School will follow all laws, orders, regulations, and guidelines issued by Federal, State, and local authorities pertaining to communicable diseases, pandemics, epidemics, and infection control practices However, the School cannot eradicate all risks of infection or exposure to communicable diseases and viruses By attending classes, extra-curricular events, and other school-related programs and activities, parents and students understand and assume the inherent risk of exposure and infection.

X. GENERAL SCHOOL INFORMATION

Accreditation

Far Hills is accredited by the New Jersey Association of Independent Schools, and is a member of both the National Association of Independent Schools and the New Jersey Association of Independent Schools.

Governance

Far Hills is governed by a self-perpetuating Board of Trustees of approximately 20 members It is the responsibility of this body to plan, develop, and establish policy, and to assess the performance of the School consistent with the school’s mission and philosophy The Board oversees the School’s financial health, physical grounds, and leads ongoing strategic planning. The Board establishes the tuition and initiates fundraising campaigns to support the implementation of strategic initiatives.

The Board of Trustees is responsible for the selection of the Head of School and works in close collaboration with the Head, though the Head of School is responsible for the implementation of policy and the day-to-day operations of the School.

Current Family Contact Information

The School reiterates that parents must keep the School informed of telephone changes at work or at home in case of emergency. If a parent is going to be away from home for an extended length of time, please leave a forwarding address and telephone number where you can be reached, as well as information on who will be responsible for the student and how they may be reached in case of illness or other emergency For younger students, a note to the classroom teacher can be helpful to a student who may be anxious during a parent’s absence.

Dual Households

In order for the School to most effectively communicate with parents and support each student, it is important for teachers and administrators to be aware of students who spend time in dual households. Please be sure to communicate to the School about primary caregivers in the event of an emergency, and whether special co-parenting arrangements

exist If there are court- ordered guidelines regarding visitations, picking up a student from school, parent involvement in field trips or other issues, please include the School in your communication loop. These situations can be stressful for parents and confusing for students, and your help in minimizing the school’s phone calls to you for clarification is very important. Unless otherwise specified, each parent for whom the Main Office has current contact information will receive a copy of the student’s report card as well as other informational mailings and electronic communications during the year.

Gender Inclusivity

The school is committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all students. This policy is to ensure that all students, including transgender and gender nonconforming students, have educational opportunities and equal access to FH’s educational programs and activities. FH will comply with federal and state laws and regulations regarding gender identity and expression , and no person shall be subjected to discrimination, harassment, or bullying on the basis of gender, gender identity or expression, or affectional or sexual orientation. This policy applies whether the discrimination, harassment, or bullying takes place on or off campus, including cyber-bullying through the use of electronic technology (on or off the School’s campus, and on or off the School’s network)

FH will strive to work with students and parents/guardians to accommodate the needs of transgender or gender nonconforming students. FH recognizes that school-related issues regarding transgender or gender nonconforming students will vary. The School will work closely with students and their parents/guardians to discuss any school-related issues, including, but not limited to:

● Names and Pronouns: The school’s employees shall address the student by the name and pronoun corresponding to the student’s gender identity that is consistently asserted at school.

● Student Records: FH’s official student record will be maintained in accordance with respect to Federal and State law, which will indicate the student’s legal name and biological sex However, FH will provide use of School facilities, participation in athletics, accuracy of student name and pronoun requested by the student and/or parents/guardians for internal and/or unofficial school records use. A student’s records can be changed upon request and only upon receipt of documentation reflecting legal change of the student’s name and/or gender

● Privacy: All students have the right to discuss and express their gender identity and expression openly and decide when, with whom and how much of preferred name and pronouns, and

their private information to share with others Disclosure of, or access to, confidential student records shall be in accordance with Federal and State law.

● Restrooms and Locker Rooms: Students shall have access to the restroom and locker room corresponding to their gender identity

● Physical Education Classes and Athletics: Students shall be permitted to participate in physical education classes in a manner consistent with their gender identity consistently asserted at school.

● Dress Codes: Students have the right to dress in accordance with their gender identity and shall comply with FH’s policies

If the student has not yet informed the parents/guardians about their gender identity, or the parents/guardians are not supportive, the student may seek the guidance of a trusted member of the faculty such as the school psychologist, the school nurse, or the student’s advisor FH shall seek to balance the privacy rights of the student and the rights of the parents/guardians to be kept informed about their child. In the event that the parents/guardians do not accept the student’s assertion of his or her gender identity, the Head of School will meet with the parents/guardians and the student to determine how the student’s gender identity shall be addressed by the school.

Parent/Guardian Communications

Formal venues (such as Parent/Guardian conferences, addressed below) and narratives exist for sharing and learning about students’ growth and development at school. However, parents with concerns about their child’s experiences should feel free to speak with their child’s teacher at appropriate times. If a parent’s needs are not satisfied, please adhere to the following suggested communication contact steps:

1. Subject Teacher

2. Upper School Advisor/House Director

3. Division Director, Director of Athletics, or Director of Secondary School Counseling (Upper School only)

Following these steps will help ensure that concerns are addressed in a timely and appropriate manner.

Parent/Guardian Conferences

Formal Parent Conferences are scheduled during the school year. The first conference, called an Opening Conference, is designed for parents to provide information about their child that is useful to the teacher early in the school year. The second conference is designed for the teacher to communicate a student’s progress, and to make suggestions for success. It is each parent’s responsibility to sign up for these conferences. Please check the school calendar for the dates of these conference times. Sign-ups take place online. Sign-up instructions will be provided two weeks prior to conferences. In addition, parents may request a conference at any time during the school year, but these must be arranged by appointment only.

Grade-Level Meetings/Curriculum Presentations/Information Sessions are scheduled periodically and feature special speeches on topics that are of grade-level interest. Academic communication, as it varies within the divisions of the School, is emailed home at different times throughout the year

Religious and Cultural Observances

Various holidays are recognized and discussed with stories, plays, and special foods that convey the cultural significance of the holiday. The School recognizes, but does not celebrate holidays from a religious perspective. If a particular holiday or its traditions are important to a parent’s heritage, and the parent would like to share information with the students, the parent is invited to contact the teacher to make arrangements for a presentation about the holiday and its traditions.

Background Checks

All employees, volunteers, and third-party contractors are subject to a New Jersey Criminal History Record Check, as required by state law

Visitors to Campus

Upon arrival, all visitors are required to check in at the Lower School or Front Office Reception areas to obtain a visitor’s pass via the Raptor Visitor Management System. The Raptor System screens each visitor’s state-issued ID against sex offender databases and locally customized lists of banned or potentially threatening individuals, instantly alerting

the school to a threatening presence, and maintains a searchable log of all visitors, allowing the school to keep even more accurate and reliable records. For the safety of our students, our visitor pass policy includes parents, family members, alums, and visitors from outside of the Far Hills community. Special all-school events, such as the holiday concert and graduation, will be exceptions.

Pets on Campus

Family pets need to be left at home at all times for health and safety reasons. They should not be in attendance during the school day, or at special occasions If a student wishes to bring a family pet for Show and Tell, a brief visit can generally be accommodated. Parents need to discuss the visit ahead of time with the teacher and, if approved, remain with the animal at all times. No matter how gentle and beloved, we do not want a dog, cat, ferret, bird, or any other pet introduced into a classroom, hallway, or play area where a student may have severe allergies or fears that can be triggered by the presence of animals.

Parking

Parents are welcome to park in any of the school parking lots at any time Designated parking areas, closer to the building have been established. Parking along the curb between the yellow lines is not permitted on school days, as this is the drop off and pick up area only. Ten-minute parking is permitted in front of the School not within the yellow lines—between the hours of 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Lost and Found

Please help us to minimize the number of lost items by placing your child’s name in all personal belongings and on all clothing, especially athletic clothing. Lost and Found items are regularly displayed in the Upper School Commons and storeroom across from the Piazza reception area. Please check these areas if your child reports a missing item. Separate lost and found locations have been established in the two locker room areas. Clothing not claimed in a reasonable period of time is donated to charity

School Store (Falcon’s Find)

School-related items may be purchased at the school store, known as Falcon’s Find, located across from the Cafe.

Falcon Swap Shop

Parents are encouraged to utilize the Falcon Swap Shop, located across the hallway from the fitness center. The shop allows families to drop off used dress code clothing that is in good- condition (but may no longer fit, etc.) and trade it for other dress code items. Please see the Front Office Administrator for a key to the shop

Gift Giving

Gifts from individual families to teachers are in no way required or expected.

Gift giving among students at school can lead both to awkwardness and hurt feelings. We discourage students from exchanging gifts at school If students choose to do so, it should be done as privately as possible.

Student Records Access

Students’ records are kept on file at the School Each student’s record contains a transcript with grades, athletic involvement, commendations, test scores, formal academic, athletic, advisor comments, advisor letters, and letters involving any major discipline infractions. Only parents, the student, and Far Hills administrators and teachers have access to these records. Once a student graduates or withdraws from Far Hills, only permanent transcripts and health records that are required to be maintained are kept on file

Sexual Harassment Statement, Policy, and Committee

No person at the School shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subject to discrimination under any educational or athletic program or activity. If a student believes they have been subjected to discrimination on the basis of sex, the student should report to the Division Director or the Head of School. The School will conduct an investigation if it is determined that an investigation is warranted. Following the conclusion of the investigation, the School will notify all parties involved of the findings.

Through education and intervention, the School endeavors to maintain an environment that is free from sexual harassment. The School does not tolerate verbal or physical behavior that constitutes sexual harassment. To prevent incidents of sexual harassment,

the school encourages all members of the school community to communicate with respect and clarity. It is essential to recognize that any behavior or language that makes someone feel uncomfortable or threatened, including flirting or teasing, may be considered harassment, regardless of the intent. Sexual harassment is defined as behavior involving a single instance or repeated instances of inappropriate verbal and/or physical conduct of a sexual nature Examples include, but are not limited to, unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, touching, innuendo, and other conduct of a sexual nature that has the purpose or effect of 1) creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment; 2) interfering unreasonably with a person’s academic performance; or 3) creating a situation where an evaluation of a student depends on their submitting to and/or not objecting to the behavior Sexual harassment between students, and students and employees, is prohibited: it violates both state and federal law and also the School’s core values

Any student who believes that he or she has been subjected to sexual harassment at the School or at a school-related function should bring the matter to the attention of a member of the School’s Sexual Harassment Committee (SHC). The SHC is comprised of the Head of School, each Division Director, and the School Nurse Once contacted, either by the student or an adult representing the student, the SHC member can provide advice about how to respond to the situation on one’s own; obtain assistance in moderating a conversation in person or writing between the student and the person alleged to be the harasser; or commence a formal investigation of the alleged incident(s).

If an investigation is warranted, the SHC will promptly conduct an investigation and maintain confidentiality to the greatest extent possible.

When the SHC has completed its investigation, if appropriate, it will advise the student and alleged harasser of the SHC’s conclusions If it is determined that inappropriate conduct has occurred, the School will take appropriate remedial actions. The SHC will maintain confidentiality regarding sexual harassment complaints to the extent the situation permits

Although the school’s goals are to support and educate members of the community as the principal means of preventing sexual harassment, the School also has an independent responsibility to ensure a harassment-free environment. The School and the SHC thus reserve the right to act unilaterally to end sexual harassment where such intervention is deemed warranted.

XI. STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

Academic Support

Far Hills does not discriminate against applicants on the basis of learning disabilities that may be reasonably accommodated. Far Hills will discuss with families of applicants with known learning disabilities whether the School will be able to offer their children the appropriate accommodations to help them be successful at the School

The School is committed to ensuring that students with disabilities are provided with equal access to all of the School’s programs and services, in accordance with applicable law. For students who need additional support or curricular adjustments, the School requires documentation indicating that the student’s disability substantially limits a major life activity, including learning. Students who present the School with appropriate documentation of a disability will be granted those requested academic accommodations that are supported by the documentation and considered reasonable in this specific educational setting. Any adjustments to the academic program would be made through an interactive process between the student and the Head of School and/or Division Director. No waivers of academic graduation requirements will be granted to students.

Even after supportive services and accommodations have been put in place, a student may still not be able to fulfill their academic requirements satisfactorily. In such instances, the student’s advisor, the Head of School and/or Division Director, or other support personnel may notify the student’s parents that the accommodations put into place may not suffice to ensure the student’s success at Far Hills. At that time, the Head of School and/or Division Director, the student, and their parents will discuss whether it makes sense for the student to continue at the School If there is a disagreement, the School will decide, in its sole discretion, whether to issue a re-enrollment contract to the student

Outside Testing/Evaluation

In some instances, a student’s academic difficulties may indicate that outside testing or evaluation of the student is appropriate. In such instances, the School can help parents explore potential resources and may make the necessary arrangements for such testing or evaluation

When parents arrange for such outside testing or evaluation, the School asks that this information be shared with the School in order to enhance the School’s ability to assist the student. If the School does not have access to the evaluation, we cannot guarantee a specific learning support plan.

Tutoring

Tutoring is individual instruction to improve a skill. While Far Hills' faculty are expected to give extra help to students when needed or requested, occasionally, a student’s needs in an academic subject extend beyond such help, and the teacher may recommend tutoring. Far Hills' faculty and other qualified teachers in the community are available for tutoring outside of the school day In order to avoid a conflict of interest, Far Hills faculty may not tutor their own students during the school year

Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting

If an employee of Far Hills has reasonable suspicion that there has been an instance of child abuse or neglect, the employee is obligated to report it to the Head of School as well as the New Jersey State Department of Children and Families. If the Head of School is not available, the employee shall report the instance to the Division Director

Mental Health and Other Counseling

Parents wishing to have full educational, intellectual, psychological, or speech and language evaluations for their child, or whose child has been recommended for such an evaluation, may opt to use the Special Services of Middlesex Regional Educational Services Commission (MRESC). There is no charge for these services. Parents may also choose and contract for a private evaluation The School maintains a list of referrals for all services mentioned above.

Parents who need guidance in this area are encouraged to see their Division Director. It is important that the results of such evaluations be shared with school personnel so that appropriate recommendations can be implemented. All information provided to the School in connection with such counseling will remain confidential. Please see the Handbook’s school social and emotional support section for additional information

Confidentiality

As mentioned several times throughout this Handbook, members of the school community commit themselves to maintaining appropriate professional tact and discretion with regard to confidential information they receive However, confidential information may be disclosed to the Head of School, appropriate administrators, outside professionals, law enforcement officers, parent/guardians or others when there is a compelling reason for doing so, including, without limitation, in cases of health and safety emergencies (when students or others are in imminent danger of harm); when there is concern about an individual’s ability to function academically, emotionally, physically, and/or mentally within the school environment; or when legal requirements demand that confidential information be revealed

XII. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Enrollment Agreements

Enrollment agreements are sent to families each year in mid-February . Students may not attend classes unless a properly executed enrollment agreement is submitted to the School in a timely manner. Enrollment agreements will be sent to returning students only if all financial obligations are current and there are no concerns about the student’s academic performance or behavior. Please see the Handbook’s Re-Enrollment Policy section for additional information

After May 1, signed enrollment agreements are binding and tuition will be due in full according to the payment plan chosen on the enrollment agreement Unless written notice is received prior to May 1st advising Far Hills about a decision to withdraw, the student’s parents are responsible for the full tuition for the academic year, regardless of the reason for withdrawal. Please see the Handbook’s Tuition Refund Plan section for additional information about how to acquire tuition insurance coverage through the A.W.G. Dewar Tuition Refund Insurance Plan. Enrolling in the insurance plan is strongly recommended by the school to protect your investment in your child(ren)’s education.

Financial Assistance

Far Hills seeks to enroll academically qualified students regardless of their financial circumstances. Financial Assistance is offered to both current and new students on the basis of need and the availability of school funds. In order to determine the fairest and most equitable estimate of a family’s need, Far Hills uses the general principles and needs analysis system of Clarity. Parents must complete a confidential financial application with Clarity, who will then independently audit the application and send a report directly to the School A list of the required documents can be found on the Far Hills website under “Financial Aid” under the Admission tab. Both parents are expected to contribute toward their child(ren)’s educational expenses and families requesting aid are required to complete the application process with Clarity each year to be considered. All financial information submitted by a family is held in the strictest confidence. For more information or inquiries, contact the Admission Office.

Tuition Billing

Far Hills Country Day School partners with a company called Blackbaud Tuition Management for the school’s tuition billing and payment processing. Parents select a tuition payment plan on their child(ren)’s enrollment contract(s). Three payment plans are offered:

● Single, Full Payment Plan Option: Tuition for the entire upcoming school year is due in full by July 1 under this plan.

● 2-Payment Plan Option: Under this plan 60% of your tuition is due by July 1 The remaining 40% of contracted tuition is due by January 1 of the subsequent calendar year. There is a $100 per student administrative fee for this option. This is a one-time fee billed and due with your first tuition payment.

● 10-Month Payment Plan Option: With this plan 10 monthly payments are due in equal installments. The first payment is due July 1 and the final payment is due April 1 of the subsequent calendar year. There is a $200 per student administrative fee for this option This is a one-time fee billed and due with your first tuition payment

An online Blackbaud Tuition Management account is set up by the school for each family. All tuition payments should be made via a family’s online account. Payments can be made by debit or auto-debit from a bank account, or by credit card (fees apply). Blackbaud will also accept payment over the phone. Additional account details and information regarding payment methods will be provided by Blackbaud directly to parents when their account is activated by the school

Delinquent Tuition Accounts

Students may not attend classes, take examinations, participate in extra offerings, or graduate, unless tuition is paid in a timely manner consistent with the enrollment agreement Additionally, no student will be permitted to begin school in September unless the initial tuition bill has been paid in full or special arrangements have been agreed upon by the Head of School and Chief Financial Officer. The School does recognize that families may experience extenuating financial circumstances. While the School is willing to work with families in these instances, all accommodating payment plans must be approved, and payments must be received on a regular basis. If an account is more than 60 days overdue,

it may be brought to the attention of the Receivables Committee, which includes the Head of School, Treasurer of the Board of Trustees, the President of the Board of Trustees, and the Chief Financial Officer. The Receivables Committee will review the case, make appropriate arrangements regarding collection, and may decide the student will not be permitted to return to school the following trimester or for the remainder of the school year. No student is permitted to re-enroll if there is an outstanding account balance from the previous school year unless formal arrangements for payment have been documented in the business office regarding any prior year outstanding amounts Furthermore, the School will not release transcripts or teacher recommendations for a student who has an outstanding tuition balance and may litigate for monies due.

Tuition Refund Plan

The Tuition Refund Plan offers enrolled families an insurance policy for recovering tuition (usually 50% to 60% of the tuition for the remaining school year after event date) in the event of certain absences, withdrawals, or dismissals. Information about the insurance plan is included with enrollment materials and families may elect or decline coverage at the time they enroll(re-enroll) their children. It is possible to acquire tuition refund insurance prior to September 15 if families realize they desire coverage and did not indicate this on their enrollment contract. The tuition insurance plan is optional. The Tuition Refund Plan is requested for all accounts which carry an outstanding balance as of the opening day of school (i.e., multiple payment plans).

XIII. RE-ENROLLMENT

Re-enrollment at Far Hills is not guaranteed. A student is promoted to the next grade when they have satisfactorily met the expectations of their current grade, when the School feels it can continue to meet the student’s needs, and when the behavior and comportment of the student and family are consistent with the School’s policies Such a determination is made at the sole discretion of the School. In the Upper School, no student will be promoted with a failing grade in a major course of study. Summer school and/or summer tutorial work will be required in such a case.

Re-Enrollment Policy

Re-enrollment decisions are usually made in January or February by the Administration A decision to re-enroll a student and to subsequently forward a re-enrollment contract to the parents is based upon a student’s academic record, effort, attitude, and behavior throughout the prior year, and upon the willingness of the parents to accept their responsibility in the partnership of education. Additionally, all financial obligations as outlined in the existing enrollment contract must be satisfied. On occasion, re-enrollment contracts are held until later (usually April or May) when the School decides that an appropriate decision about placement can be made

If it is determined that it is not in a student’s best interest to continue at the School, the School will assist, if possible, in the process of locating an appropriate alternative school.

Families should understand that the School reserves the right not to offer a re-enrollment contract for a student if the parents have been uncooperative or if their actions have in any way undermined the effectiveness of our teachers.

Parental Comportment

Far Hills requires that its students, faculty, and administration follow the rules and regulations of the School. The School also expects parents to recognize and follow the rules and regulations of the School, especially when it relates to dealing with the School Administration and faculty or other representatives of the School. Parents are also subject to these rules, in that they have a contractual relationship with the School through the

enrollment agreement (but not through this Handbook), but most importantly, parents also set an example for our students. Therefore, Far Hills places great emphasis on parental comportment, following the rules and regulations of the School, and setting an overall example for its students.

Parental Support of School Policies

Given the importance of Far Hills and parents working together, Far Hills expects that parents will not criticize Far Hills, its teachers, or the rules when speaking with their children or in public, including online commentary. Parents with concerns are directed to speak with the Division Director. Should a parent criticize the actions taken by the School, it will be considered a violation of the required commitment to Far Hills, and the family may be asked to leave the School.

Far Hills enrolls the students’ families, not just the individual students, and believes that a positive working relationship between the School and the family is essential to success. Therefore, Far Hills reserves the right to cancel the enrollment contract or not to offer re-enrollment if the School concludes that the actions of a parent or guardian make a constructive relationship impossible or interfere with the School's accomplishment of its educational purposes.

XIV. CALENDAR

APPENDIX A: HARASSMENT, BULLYING, AND INTIMIDATION PLAN

Introduction and Statement of Purpose

Far Hills Country Day School (the “School”) expects students to accept responsibility for their actions at all times Students are expected to behave intelligently and with sensitivity, and to conduct themselves honestly and respectfully whether on or off campus. We believe in providing our students with a safe learning environment, and are committed to instilling an environment that is free from all forms of harassment, bullying, and intimidation.

The School will determine whether a reported incident or complaint falls within the scope of Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying under the law. The School will promptly investigate any report of harassment, bullying, or intimidation. The School administration will act against those who are responsible for acts of harassment, bullying, or intimidation once the School has effectively classified the event under the tenets of this plan. The School will impose disciplinary sanctions against offending students, which may include dismissal from Far Hills.

Definition of Harassment, Bullying, and Intimidation

“Harassment, bullying, and intimidation” means any gesture, any written, verbal or physical act, or any electronic communication, whether it be a single incident or a series of incidents, that is reasonably perceived as being motivated either by any actual or perceived characteristic, such as race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, or a mental, physical or sensory disability, or by any other distinguishing characteristic, that takes place on school property, at any school-sponsored function or on a school bus or off grounds if such behavior substantially disrupts or interferes with the orderly operation of the School or the rights of other students, and that:

a. A reasonable person should know, under the circumstances, will have the effect of physically or emotionally harming a student or damaging the student’s property, or placing a student in reasonable fear of physical or emotional harm to his/her person or damage to his property;

b Has the effect of insulting or demeaning any student or group of students in such a way as to cause substantial disruption in, or substantial interference with, the orderly operation of the School;

c. Creates a hostile educational environment at school for the student; or

d Infringes on the rights of the student at school by interfering with a student’s education or by severely or pervasively causing physical or emotional harm to the student.

Bullying by Cyberbullying

New Jersey law defines “cyberbullying” as bullying through the use of electronic communication, which means “a communication transmitted by means of an electronic device, including, but not limited to, a telephone, cellular phone, computer, or pager.”

Cyberbullying also includes:

“(i) the creation of a web page or blog in which the creator assumes the identity of another person or (ii) the knowing impersonation of another person as the author of posted content or messages, if the creation or impersonation creates any of the conditions enumerated in clauses above.”

Examples of Prohibited Conduct include, but are not limited to:

● A student at home sends a text message to ridicule a targeted student while that student is engaged in an after-school activity on the School’s grounds or on the premises of another school.

● Using a computer or technology system owned, operated, or sponsored by the School, a student sends a threatening email to a targeted student’s personal email on the targeted student’s home computer, and the School determines that the targeted student would reasonably fear harm as a result

● A student, whose harassment of a targeted student was witnessed by a third student, sends a text message or email to the witness threatening to label them as a “snitch” or “tattle-tale” to other classmates if the witness tells what he saw.

● A student uses any form of social media to harass, defame, or slur another student or person.

● Parent to parent discussion should happen if an incident occurs regarding

technology outside of school hours

Prohibition Against Bullying

The School will not tolerate any form of bullying or cyberbullying. Bullying is prohibited (i) on school grounds, property immediately adjacent to school grounds, at school-sponsored or school-related activity, function, or program whether on or off school grounds, at a school bus stop, on a school bus or other vehicle owned, leased or used by the School, or through the use of technology or an electronic device owned, leased or used by the School, and (ii) at a location, activity, function, or program that is not school-related, or through the use of technology or an electronic device that is not owned, leased, or used by the School, if the bullying creates a hostile environment at the School for the targeted student, infringes on the rights of the targeted student at the School, or materially and substantially disrupts the educational process or the orderly operation of the School.

Prohibition Against Retaliation

The School prohibits retaliation against any person who reports bullying or cyberbullying, who provides information during an investigation of bullying or cyberbullying, or who witnesses or has reliable information about bullying or cyberbullying. “Retaliation” means any form of intimidation, reprisal, or harassment directed against any such person

Reporting Incidents of Bullying, Cyberbullying, or Retaliation

Students: Any student who feels that they or any other student has been targeted by an action of bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation is strongly encouraged to report the matter promptly to a member of the faculty, administration, or any other staff or faculty member to whom the student would feel more comfortable making the report. Student reports of bullying or cyberbullying may be made anonymously, although the School will not generally take any disciplinary action against a student solely on the basis of an anonymous report.

Parents/Guardians: Any parent or guardian who feels that a student has been targeted by an action of bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation is strongly encouraged to report the matter promptly to a member of the School’s faculty or administration. Such reports of bullying may be made anonymously, although the School will not generally take any disciplinary action against a student solely on the basis of an anonymous report

Faculty and Staff: All faculty members, administrative employees, and staff

members i e , every person who is employed by the School in any capacity must immediately report any single action of bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation that the person has witnessed, or otherwise become aware of, to the Head of School. There are to be no exceptions. If any faculty member, administrative employee, or staff member witnesses or otherwise becomes aware of bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation but does not report it, the employee may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment. Confidentiality will be maintained to the extent possible.

If a faculty member, administrative employee, or staff member witnesses an act of bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation in progress, the faculty member, administrative employee, or staff member is expected to take reasonable steps to stop the act by communicating directly with the person whose behavior is considered unacceptable, offensive, or inappropriate.

Anonymous Reporting: Faculty members, administrative employees, and staff members may not make reports under this policy anonymously. The School also urges students and their parents/guardians not to make reports anonymously, but anonymous reports by parents/guardians or students of either bullying or retaliation are permitted. Although there are circumstances in which an anonymous report can sometimes be better than none at all, it is more difficult to determine the facts of what occurred if complaints are made anonymously, and disciplinary action will generally not be taken against a student solely on the basis of an anonymous report. While the School cannot promise strict confidentiality because information must be shared in order to conduct an effective investigation, the School will release information concerning complaints and investigations of bullying, cyberbullying, and retaliation only on a legitimate need-to-know basis. Finally, a student who knowingly makes a false accusation of bullying or retaliation will be subject to disciplinary action.

Responding to Reports of Bullying, Cyberbullying, or Retaliation

Upon receiving a report of bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation, the teacher, Division Director, or their designee will notify the Head of School The HOS will promptly initiate an investigation

The nature and extent of the investigation will depend on the circumstances.

A Preliminary Considerations: When a complaint of bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation is brought to the attention of the Head of School, an assessment is made as to whether any initial steps need to be taken to protect the well-being of students and to prevent disruption of their learning environment while the investigation is being conducted. As appropriate, strategies such as increased supervision may be implemented to prevent further bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation during an investigation.

The School is committed to protecting the physical and emotional well-being of all of its students and will take appropriate measures to do so. Thus, the School will be sensitive to the needs of both the alleged targeted students as well as the alleged bullies

At any point after receiving a report of bullying, cyberbullying, and/or retaliation, the Head of School may notify local law enforcement in the event that the Head of School has a reasonable basis to believe that criminal charges may be pursued against the alleged aggressor.

If the School receives a report of bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation involving students from another school, the Head of School may, consistent with state and federal law, promptly notify the appropriate administrator of the other school so that both may take appropriate action

B. Obligation to Notify Parents or Guardians: It is the policy of the School to notify the parents or guardians of any student who is an alleged perpetrator or target of bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation promptly after the complaint has been made.

C. Investigation: An investigation of the complaint will be conducted by the Head of School. The investigation may include, but will not necessarily be limited to, interviews with the person who made the complaint, interviews with the student who was the target of the alleged bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation, interviews with the alleged perpetrator(s), and with any students, faculty, staff, or other persons who witnessed or may otherwise have relevant information about the alleged incident The Head of School may also contact teachers, parents or

guardians, or other individuals with relevant information

All persons will be informed that the School will not tolerate any form of retaliation directed toward an individual who in good faith makes a complaint or participates or cooperates in an investigation All persons involved in an investigation should understand that false or exaggerated accusations can be extremely damaging to innocent persons; therefore, all claims require the honest and full disclosure of facts by all involved persons. False accusations will not be tolerated and may lead to disciplinary action.

Notification and Response

Following interviews and any other investigation undertaken, as the School deems appropriate, the Head of School will determine whether and to what extent the allegation of bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation has been substantiated.

Notification:

If the Head of School determines that bullying or retaliation has occurred, the Head of School will take the following actions:

● Notify the parents or guardians of the targeted student and, to the extent consistent with state and federal law, notify them of any action taken to prevent any further acts of bullying or retaliation;

● Notify the parents or guardians of the alleged aggressor(s); and

● Assess the targeted student’s need for protection and take appropriate steps as necessary to restore a sense of safety for that student

If the Head of School determines that bullying or retaliation has not occurred, the Head of School will notify the parents or guardians of the targeted student and the alleged aggressor(s) of the findings.

Response:

If the Head of School determines that bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation has occurred, that any other provision of this Plan has been violated, or that any other School rule has been violated, the Head of School will determine what disciplinary action and/or other remedial action is appropriate and how it will be implemented

When necessary, the following steps may be taken:

● In consultation with the School’s counseling staff, refer aggressors, targeted students, and family members of such students for counseling or other services as appropriate

● Take appropriate disciplinary action, which may include any form of discipline that the School imposes for other violations of its rules and policies, up to and including dismissal.

It is important to note that stricter standards of behavior may apply under the School’s rules of conduct, in order that the School may prevent inappropriate verbal and/or physical conduct before a student has been subjected to bullying as it is defined under current New Jersey law. For example, although the law defines bullying as “repeated use” of certain expressions, acts, and/or gestures, the School may impose disciplinary measures and other corrective action in a case of a single expression, act, or gesture, if the School determines that it is of sufficient severity to warrant disciplinary measures or other remedial action or that the repetition of that expression, act, or gesture might result in bullying.

For all reports of bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation, the Head of School will keep a file of the report, the investigation, and any steps taken in response to a finding of bullying or retaliation.

Harassment, Bullying, and Intimidation by Non-Students

This Plan also applies to harassment, bullying, and intimidation committed by individuals other than students. The School will not tolerate acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying committed by faculty, staff members, visitors, volunteers, outside vendors, or other service providers (collectively “non-students”).

Reporting

Students: Any student who feels that he or she or any other student has been targeted by an action of bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation by a non-student is strongly encouraged to report the matter promptly to any staff or faculty member to whom the student would feel comfortable making the report. Student reports of bullying or cyberbullying may be

made anonymously, although the School will not generally take any disciplinary action against a non-student solely on the basis of an anonymous report

Parents/Guardians: Any parent or guardian who feels that a student has been targeted by an action of bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation by a non-student is strongly encouraged to report the matter promptly to a member of the School’s faculty or administration or to the Head of School Such reports of bullying may be made anonymously, although the School will not generally take any disciplinary action against a non-student solely on the basis of an anonymous report.

Faculty and Staff: All faculty members, administrative employees, and staff members i e , every person who is employed by the School in any capacity – must immediately report any single action of bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation by a non-student that the person has witnessed, or otherwise become aware of, to the Head of School. There are to be no exceptions. If any faculty member, administrative employee, or staff member witnesses or otherwise becomes aware of bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation by a non-student but does not report it, the employee may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment Confidentiality will be maintained to the extent possible

Investigation

Upon receiving a report of bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation by a non-student, the individual receiving the complaint or report shall notify the Head of School, who will determine whether the matter arises to a HIB. If so, the School will promptly conduct an investigation in accordance with the procedure identified above. Parents or guardians of the targeted student will be notified regarding the investigation and findings The staff members, visitors, volunteers, outside vendors, or other service providers who allegedly committed the act will be duly notified as well.

Consequences and Remedial Action

Consequences and appropriate remedial actions for any staff member who commits an act of harassment, intimidation, or bullying may range from positive behavioral interventions up to disciplinary charges, which could result in suspension or termination and reports to appropriate law enforcement officials

Consequences and appropriate remedial action for a visitor, volunteer, outside vendor,

service provider, and all other persons found to have engaged in harassment, intimidation, or bullying shall be determined by the Head of School after consideration of the nature, severity, and circumstances of the act, including termination of service agreements and reports to appropriate law enforcement officials.

Notification and Training

The School will provide written notice of this Plan to students and parents/guardians at the beginning of each School year. Relevant portions of the Plan will be included in the Parent and Student Handbook. The School will post the entire Plan on its website. The School will provide annual training on this Plan for all faculty and staff members. The training will include, among other things, a review of the reporting obligations for all faculty and staff and the processes that the School will follow in response to a report of bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation. The Plan, or relevant portions thereof, will be included in the faculty/staff handbook.

APPENDIX B: PARENT/GUARDIAN CODE OF CONDUCT

The School is very fortunate to have a supportive and friendly parent body. Parents and guardians recognize that educating children is a process that involves a partnership between parents, guardians, teachers, and the school community As a partnership, parents and guardians shall understand the importance of a good working relationship to equip children with the necessary skills for adulthood. The purpose of this policy is to provide a reminder to all parents and guardians about the expected conduct. This is so that we can continue to flourish, progress, and achieve in an atmosphere of mutual understanding.

The School expects parents and guardians to:

● Respect the values of the School.

● Understand that teachers, staff, and parents/guardians need to work together for the benefit of their children.

● Demonstrate that all members of the school community should be treated with respect and, therefore, set a good example in their own speech and behavior

● Approach the School to help resolve any issues of concern.

The School will not tolerate parents and guardians who exhibit the following:

● Disruptive behavior that interferes or threatens to interfere with the operation of a classroom, an employee’s office, office area, or any other area of the campus, including athletic fields.

● Use of loud or offensive language, swearing, cursing, using profane language, or displaying temper toward a member of school staff, visitor, fellow parent/guardian, or student.

● Threatening to do actual bodily harm to a member of school staff, visitor, fellow parent/guardian, or student, regardless of whether or not the behavior constitutes a criminal offense

● Damaging or destroying school property

● Abusive or threatening emails or text/voicemail/phone messages or other written communication to a member of school staff, visitor, fellow parent/guardian, or student.

● Defamatory, offensive or derogatory comments regarding the School, or any of the students/parent/staff on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or other social media sites.

● The use of physical aggression towards a member of school staff, visitor, fellow parent/guardian or student

● Disruptive behavior at school-sponsored events, regardless of the location.

Should any parent or guardian violate this policy, the School reserves the right to (1) contact the appropriate authorities, (2) ban the offending parent or guardian from entering the Schools’ campus, and/or (3) discharge the student of the parent or guardian from the School, without notice.