US Handbook and Planner 2010-2011

SPRINGSIDE SCHOOL

UPPER SCHOOL Handbook and Student Planner 2010-2011

MORNING MEETING SCHEDULE:

Mondays: Assembly

Tuesdays: Advising

Wednesdays: Homeroom

Thursdays: Assembly

Fridays: Advising

TABLE OF CONTENTS SPRINGSIDE SCHO OL MISSION STATEMENT ........................................................ 2 DIVERSITY STATEMENT .................................................................................... 2 CH ASS CODE OF HONOR ................................................................................ 2 COMM UNITY CO MPACT ................................................................................... 3 Code of Conduct .......................................................................................................... 3 UNIQUELY SPRINGSIDE ........................................................................... 4 History of Springside .................................................................................................... 4 Springside School Song ................................................................................................ 4 Traditions..................................................................................................................... 4 Coordinate Program ..................................................................................................... 5 ACADEMICS ......................................................................................... 6 Graduation Requirements............................................................................................. 6 Assessment................................................................................................................... 6 Departmental Distinction ............................................................................................. 7 Grade Reports and Comments ...................................................................................... 8 Registration and Academic Regulations ........................................................................ 9 College Counseling ...................................................................................................... 14 ATHLETICS .......................................................................................... 15 Athletic Guidelines....................................................................................................... 15 Team Captains ............................................................................................................. 16 EXTRACURRICULAR ................................................................................ 16 Boards ......................................................................................................................... 16 Student Publications..................................................................................................... 17 Student Clubs and Organizations.................................................................................. 17 Student Elections .......................................................................................................... 18 Community Service ...................................................................................................... 18 SPRINGSIDE SCHO OL POL ICIES ................................................................. 19 Academic Honesty and Plagiarism................................................................................ 19 Acceptable Use Policy ................................................................................................. 19 Alcohol and Drugs ....................................................................................................... 21 Attendance................................................................................................................... 21 Cell Phones and Electronic Devices .............................................................................. 25 Conduct at Other Schools............................................................................................. 25 Dress Code and Uniform .............................................................................................. 26 Security & Identification Cards………………………………………………………………..27 Driving and Parking ..................................................................................................... 27 Non-Discrimination Policy ........................................................................................... 27 Disciplinary Procedures................................................................................................ 28 Miscellaneous Policies ................................................................................................. 30 Although every effort is made to provide accurate and current information, Springside School reserves the right to change statements in the Upper School Handbook concerning rules, policies, and other matters. Students enrolled at Springside School agree to comply with the School’s rules and regulations and to accommodate to any changes necessary.

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M ISSION S TATEMEN T Springside affirms its choice to be a school for girls and young women. Here students develop the power to think, the confidence to act, and a sense of responsibility for one another. In our diverse community, students learn to honor their differences and to seek common ground so that they will live productively and justly in the worlds they inhabit.

All college preparatory schools expect their students to excel in a rigorous academic program. Springside asks more: that girls discover how they learn, that they take intellectual delight in their education, and that they gain the courage and integrity to negotiate the breadth of their complex futures. In every way, Springside School educates girls and young women to develop their capacities for leadership in the 21st Century.

DIVERSITY S TATEMENT Teachers at Springside believe that excellence in education thrives within a diverse and open community.

We believe that acknowledging the variety of cultural experiences among students, faculty, staff, and parents fosters understanding and develops sensitivity to the world around us. Each girl must feel free to show clearly who and what she is; she must understand that variations of color, religion, ethnic background, class, and sexual orientation are a source from which she and the entire community may draw strength, wisdom, and a greater humanity. Upper School teachers will seek ways to influence behaviors and attitudes so that all can live safely and honorably within our community.

CHASS CODE OF HONOR Springside School and Chestnut Hill Academy form a community built upon mutual respect and personal responsibility. We conduct ourselves in a manner that embodies honesty, respect, and trust in ourselves and each other to do the right thing. We celebrate our achievements in all areas of school life and strive for our goals without taking unfair advantage or seeking success at the expense of others. We affirm that we will conduct ourselves in a manner that exemplifies the core values of our school community.

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COMMUNITY COMPACT Springside School is committed to providing an environment conducive to learning that promotes both personal growth and community standards. The Compact is not a list of rules, but rather a philosophy of rights and responsibilities for all members of the Springside community. This philosophy is founded in the values expressed in our mission statement: responsibility, respect, courage, and integrity, values which inform our interactions with one another, both inside the classroom and out. Any member of the community who, in the opinion of the school, fails to uphold these values will be in breach of the Compact.

In order to develop and maintain this atmosphere of mutual respect, trust, and concern, we expect that: A S PRINGSIDE STUDENT WILL • Accept responsibility for her own actions • Conduct herself in a responsible and constructive manner • Respect school property and keep it free from damage • Actively participate in promoting a cooperative and respectful environment • Abide by the rules and regulations set forth in this Handbook SPRINGSIDE PARENTS WILL • Support the school’s policies • Promote a sense of respect for self and others • Encourage students to value and respect differences ADULTS IN THE SPRINGSIDE COMMUNITY WILL • Promote a climate of mutual respect and dignity • Ensure fairness, equity, and consistency • Make students accountable for their own actions • Hold themselves to the highest standards We believe the values articulated in the Compact foster a respectful and supportive environment in which we can flourish as a school community.

Springside strives to foster the fullest development of its students in an atmosphere of care and concern.

Members of the community are held to high standards because of the nature of our endeavor: the education and development of our students.

CODE OF CONDUCT As a member of the Springside School Community, I will • Respect the dignity of each individual • Take responsibility for my actions and be responsible for others • Make decisions based on integrity and honesty • Live justly and have the courage to do what I know is right Any behavior that is in violation of Springside’s values is not acceptable. Any student whose actions tarnish the reputation of Springside School, jeopardize the safety or social cohesion of the school, go against local, state, or national laws, or serve as a negative influence on other students—regardless of where such actions occur—may be subject to suspension or expulsion.

Rules are in effect at all times when students are at school unless further noted.

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UNIQUELY SPRINGSIDE HISTORY OF SPRINGSIDE

TRADITIONS

The oldest school for girls in Philadelphia, Springside was founded in 1879 by sisters Miss Jane Bell and Mrs. Walter D. Comegys as a “French and English Boarding and Day School for Young Ladies and Little Girls.” The school addressed the intellectual as well as the social and moral development of its students.

In 1915, the school changed its name to “Springside” in reference to a spring that had once run through the Norwood Avenue campus. By 1918, Springside offered two courses of study: general education and a pre-college program. Among the colleges and universities Springside students attended were Barnard, Wellesley, Bryn Mawr, Smith, University of Pennsylvania, and MIT.

BLUE AND GOLD DAY/HOMECOMING When students first enroll at Springside, they are assigned a color, either blue or gold. Colors are assigned at random, but family members will be the same color. During Blue and Gold Day, the blue and gold teams compete by grade in a variety of activities, ending in a tug of war between blue and gold members of the senior class. The Parents’ Association creates a carnival atmosphere for the young and old alike. Later in the afternoon, the Upper School tennis, field hockey, and soccer teams compete, and in the evening, there is an all-school supper followed by a Homecoming rally and cheering competition.

Attendance for Upper School students is required at the cheering competition. Each grade level performs cheers they have composed, and alumna judges determine the winner. Families are encouraged to attend. The weekend festivities conclude with a Homecoming dance sponsored

by Student Activities.

Springside dropped its boarding program in 1921 due to the rise in enrollment of day students and the constraints on space. The school moved to its current location in 1958, and with the opening of the new building came the establishment of three divisions: the Lower School (on a separate campus), the Middle School, and the Upper School. It wasn’t until 1969 that the Lower School joined the Upper and Middle Schools in one building. Springside celebrated its 125th anniversary on September 15, 2004.

COMMENCEMENT The culmination of a senior’s secondary school experience is celebrated by the community during Commencement exercises. The elegant ceremony is presided over by the Head of School with assistance from the Head of Upper School and President of the Board of Trustees.

Attendance for Upper School students is required and students are expected to wear a more formal style of dress.

SPRINGSIDE SCHOOL SONG Springside, we pledge thee loyalty And always will be true We’ll ever be defenders of Our colors gold and blue Though time may end our school days, Let all we think and do But guard our Alma Mater And our colors gold and blue.

FINAL ASSEMBLY Special awards and recognitions are presented during Final Assembly. Held the day before Commencement, Final Assembly is a formal occasion marking the achievements of students in a variety of areas including academics, athletics, activities, and studentship. Attendance for Upper School students is required and students are expected to wear a more formal style of dress.

Families are encouraged to attend.

The friendships formed within these walls, The love that holds us true, Will bring us sacred memories Of colors gold and blue.

Oh give us strength and courage To turn to pathways new.

To strive for thee, dear Springside And our colors gold and blue.

Refrain

OPENING ASSEMBLY Opening Assembly is the official beginning of a new school year. This all-school event brings everyone together to set the tone for the upcoming year and recognize members of the senior class. Seniors are expected to wear a more formal style of dress. Attendance for Upper School students is required.

Stand firm, stand firm by dear Springside Stand firm by the gold and the blue.

Uphold our honor glorious Stand firm by the gold and blue.

SCHOOL COLORS: Blue and Gold SCHOOL MASCOT: Lion SCHOOL MOTTO: Laurus crescit in arduis (“Honor comes through hard work.”)

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COORDINATE PROGRAM

SONG NIGHT During Song Night, held the Monday before Commencement, classes compose and perform original songs for their classmates. This theatrical production ends with alumna judges choosing a winner. Attendance for Upper School students is required. Families are welcome.

Springside School and Chestnut Hill Academy affirm that single-sex schools offer exceptional opportunities for students to develop personal strengths and interests. While maintaining separate programs, each school commits itself to the thoughtful development of a shared curriculum and teaching designed specifically with the different experiences of boys and girls in mind. Challenged and supported in both schools, students learn responsibility and respect for themselves and one another. Adjacent campuses open the way for sharing faculty and facilities.

The increased offerings and diverse perspectives of the Coordinate Program expand horizons for students and diminish stereotypes at a time when young people are searching for new experiences, new friends, and new ideas. Teachers, sensitive to gender differences and the dynamics between boys and girls in the classroom, work together to provide outstanding education in coeducational classes. Teachers from Springside School and Chestnut Hill Academy model for both students and educators the advantages of working together to achieve common goals.

YEARBOOK DEDICATION Each year, the senior class chooses a member of the Springside community to whom the yearbook is dedicated. The recipient is announced during a special assembly, after which students are invited to pick up their yearbooks. Attendance for Upper School students is required.

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ACADEMICS In Upper School classrooms, students encounter the information and issues central to the major disciplines, including art and music. As she moves through the curriculum, each student acquires not only the academic and intellectual skills needed for college, but also a confident voice, a respect for inquiry, and competence in approaching and mastering new information and new situations.

grades are converted to letters (A to F) according to the chart below for official reports and transcripts.

Teachers calculate grades to one decimal place and round up to the next whole number at 0.5. The only exceptions to this policy are sports, which allows a Pass (P) option, and courses that juniors and seniors are approved to take under the pass/fail option (see pass/fail). During the first week of classes, teachers hand out a course syllabus (outline or plan) and a summary of what graded work will be required and how teachers will calculate the grades, including what "weight" (percentage) each item will count and whether or not participation in class discussion is graded. This syllabus will also be posted on Moodle. Students are given a grade for each course at the end of each quarter. Grades are based on the number, type, and weight of assignments in each course.

Teachers are required to assign a minimum of five graded pieces of work each quarter. No piece may count as more than 30% of a quarterly grade. If a student thinks a grade on a piece of work or for a marking period is in error or if she doesn’t understand how the grade was calculated, she should speak first to her teacher, requesting clarification, then (if a question remains) to her advisor or the relevant department head.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS CREDIT REQUIREMENTS Twenty credits earned in Upper School. One fullyear course equals one credit. One semester course equals one-half credit. Students must take at least five credited courses each semester in English, history, foreign language, mathematics, and/or science. Exceptions to this policy may be granted only by the Head of Upper School.

DEPARTMENTAL REQUIREMENTS English 4 credits History 3 credits Foreign Language Through Level III in one language* Mathematics 3 credits*, including Algebra II* Science 3 credits (required: physics, chemistry, and biology)

Art Music Physical Education

1 credit 1 credit No credit

Letter Grade A+ A A– B+ B B– C+ C C– D+ D D– F

(2 seasons of sport or 2 semesters of PE or a combination thereof are required each year)

*No credits earned in eighth grade (French I, Spanish I, Latin I, or Algebra I) count toward the 20-credit minimum graduation requirement.

NON-DEPARTMENTAL, NON-CREDIT REQUIREMENT The following do not carry any credit but must be passed by coursework and/or by attendance in order for students to graduate: Homeroom All grade levels Life Issues One full year in the ninth grade Guidance Full year junior year/half year senior year Senior Speech Fulfilled during senior year Senior Project Fulfilled in May of the senior year The Course Offerings guide and course recommendation sheet provide more specific information on department requirements and course options.

Percent Scale 97–100 93–96 90–92 87–89 83–86 80–82 77–79 73–76 70–72 67–69 63–66 60–62 Below 60

Point Scale 4.33 4.0 3.67 3.33 3.0 2.67 2.33 2.0 1.67 1.33 1.0 .67 0

Honors Point Scale 4.67 4.33 4.0 3.67 3.33 3.0 2.67 2.33 2.0 1.67 1.33 1.0 .33

OTHER GRADES I – incomplete; W – withdrew; WF – withdrew failing; WM – withdrew medical; P – pass Exams are given in all subjects at the end of the 1st and 2nd semesters, unless specifically waived by a department. Exam grades are worth 20% and each quarter is worth 40% of the semester grade. (For any course that does not administer an exam, the semester grade is calculated by averaging the two quarter grades.) Semester grades are calculated using the following formula:

ASSESSMENT The following grading system is used for grades 9-12 at both CHA and Springside.

Faculty members will record student grades in their grade books as numbers, but final marking period 5

SEMESTER GRADES:

curiosity, and zest for the tasks at hand. In addition, each department has specific criteria.

Semester 1 = (2xQ1 + 2xQ2 + E1) 5

ART Distinction for exceptional work is given to students who enthusiastically demonstrate genuine interest in one of the visual arts. As well as acquiring the skills and concepts specific to the course requirements, the recipients should also exhibit personal growth, the willingness to take risks, and a consistent commitment to excellence.

Semester 2 = (2xQ3 + 2xQ4 + E2) 5 Senior second semester = extended third quarter YEAR GRADES: Y = .5 x Semester 1 + .5 x Semester 2 SENIOR YEAR GRADES: Y = .6 x Semester 1 + .4 x Semester 2

ENGLISH In order to qualify for recognition in English, a student must have demonstrated distinction in her ability to read critically, to speak and write effectively, and to think logically. At least once during the year, she will have written a distinguished piece of work, either critical or imaginative.

Q = quarter; E = exam; Y = year GRADE POINT AVERAGE CALCULATION GPAs are calculated by using the above 4-point scale for CP classes: multiply the points corresponding to the letter grade for each class by the number of credits awarded for that class for the marking period, sum the products, and divide by the total number of credits earned in the marking period. This is the GPA on the 4-point scale. All honors and AP classes are calculated in the same way using the 4-point scale with a 0.33 point increment. Physical education, athletic team participation, college counseling, non-credit, ISP and courses taken as Pass/Fail are not included in GPA calculations.

FOREIGN LANGUAGE The Foreign Language Department believes that outstanding achievement and enthusiasm for language study merits distinction in Chinese, Latin, French, or Spanish. In the modern languages, this includes the ability to express one’s thoughts accurately, with good pronunciation, and the ability to comprehend oral French or Spanish. In Latin, this includes the ability to translate accurately as well as to analyze literature with insight.

CUM LAUDE SOCIETY A national honor society, Cum Laude recognizes academic achievement in secondary schools for the purpose of promoting excellence, justice, and honor. No more than 10% of the junior class and 20% of the senior class can be members. Students are admitted in the spring by recommendation of the Upper School faculty and by votes of the department heads.

HISTORY The History Department recognizes students for outstanding work for a whole year in the history program. These students have shown independent interest in the questions and issues raised in the study of history and current events, excellence in scholarship and research skills, critical reading of primary and secondary sources, and skillful analysis of evidence and effective development of thesis and supporting argument.

The department heads approved the following guidelines as criteria for election to Cum Laude: three years of attendance at Springside (exceptions have occurred); completion of all Upper School requirements at each grade level; honors or AP level work in each year after ninth grade; outstanding work as shown by at least one Departmental Distinction each year after ninth grade; no final course below B–, weighted, after ninth grade; a weighted grade point average of 3.5 or better; and good character, honesty, integrity, and intellectual commitment.

MATHEMATICS For distinguished work in mathematics, the Math Department recognizes the students who can analyze and discuss mathematical concepts and who can synthesize these concepts to explore challenging problems.

MUSIC Departmental Distinction in Music is awarded to Springside students from each grade level in both the instrumental ensemble and the vocal ensemble.

The students chosen have exhibited strong musical independence as well as concern for the goals of their respective performing group.

DEPARTMENTAL DISTINCTION Each year, the departmental faculties, in consultation with their colleagues at Chestnut Hill Academy, award Departmental Distinctions at Final Assembly. Departmental Distinction acknowledges the student who shows a flair for the discipline and reflects in her work intellectual excitement,

PHYSICAL EDUCATION In Physical Education distinction is given to a student who participated only in P.E. classes and 6

dance, and who at her class level has excelled and gone above the daily requirements and displayed a genuine interest in physical activity.

like additional information on their child’s progress or status.

REPORTS Reports represent the formal communication between school and family. Comments are written to give an overall impression of a student’s performance and to specify any areas in which a student needs improvement or has made progress.

All reports are posted on NetClassroom at the end of the specified marking period.

SCIENCE To qualify for Departmental Distinction in an area of science, a student must do superior work throughout the year. She must be a thoughtful, independent thinker, who also works effectively when collaborating with other students. In addition, she must demonstrate genuine interest in learning, reaching to make connections between the scientific principles learned in class and everyday phenomena observed in the world around her.

1ST - AND 3RD-QUARTER REPORTS Written for all upper school students at the conclusion of the first and third quarters, these reports include the quarter grades earned and comments for each course. They are meant to present a full view of a student’s progress for the quarter.

GRADE REPORTS AND COMMENTS STUDENT FEEDBACK Chestnut Hill Academy and Springside School teachers believe that providing timely, constructive feedback to students about their academic progress is an important element of the learning process. We view all assessments as learning tools, not just as a means of evaluating students. We believe that students should have the opportunity to learn from mistakes before being assessed on the same material or before taking the same type of assessment again.

2ND- AND 4TH-QUARTER REPORTS Second- and fourth-quarter grade reports are submitted for every student. Written narratives are submitted for students on academic probation or restriction, students with grades of C- or below for the quarter and/or semester, or students who have experienced significant change, positive or negative, in their work.

The following guidelines were established in the winter of 2009 in order to serve as a goal for teachers to return work to students.

REPORTS ON SENIORS Seniors receive reports after the first and second quarters as outlined above. In their second semester, seniors have a single marking period that extends from the opening of the second semester to approximately May 1st. At that time, seniors participate in Senior Projects. At the conclusion of their marking period, their teachers write narrative reports on the performance of each senior in their courses.

• Quizzes will be returned within 2-3 class periods.

• Mixed format tests (objective, short essay) will be returned within 5 class periods.

• Essay Tests and Lab Reports will be returned in 7-8 class periods.

• Essays and Papers will be returned within 10 class periods.

• Major research papers and projects will vary depending on scope and depth of each project.

ADVISOR REPORTS ON S TUDENTS IN GRADES 9-11 These reports are written by each student’s advisor at the end of the school year. Offering a “state of the student,” these reports aim to trace the student’s academic, athletic, extracurricular and social developments over the course of the year. They often draw upon comments from academic teachers, coaches, activity advisors, and others in the school.

We understand that these time frames are guidelines and that some circumstances may prohibit teachers from meeting these goals on every assignment.

NETCLASSROOM NetClassroom is a web-based portal that allows students and parents to view grades and overall academic status throughout the school year.

Teachers, once they have graded an assignment within the time frames listed above, can post the grade to NetClassroom for the student and parent to view. Because parents and students will have more immediate access to important academic information on an ongoing basis, the school will no longer issue Interim Reports at the mid-point of each quarter. As always, parents should contact the classroom teacher or personal advisor if they would

PARENT CONFERENCES Each fall, after 1st quarter reports are issued, parents meet with their daughter’s advisor. The conversation gives the advisor, parents, and the student an opportunity to assess academic performance and other aspects of the student’s beginning to the school year and to set up a plan to address any concerns. Although this is the only conference scheduled during the school year, parents and advisors should feel free to contact each other any time a question or concern arises.

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REGISTRATION AND ACADEMIC REGULATIONS

typically last for one semester. A student’s proposal for a yearlong ISP must present a justification for such an extension. An interested student should obtain proposal forms from the Upper School Office and approval from her advisor, the project advisor, the relevant department head, the Director of College Counseling, and the Head of Upper School. Students may also elect to pursue a more elaborate, likely interdisciplinary ISP over an extended time, as much as two or three years, using summers and vacation periods as much or more than the school year to engage in the proposed research, creative activity, and/or experiential component of the project. To obtain approval and a plan for oversight of an extended ISP (including the activities, schedule, and grading), students need to meet with a committee consisting of the faculty whose signatures are required on the ISP form.

COURSE SECTIONING The goal of our sectioning process is to place girls in classes that provide the challenge and breadth appropriate to a rigorous college-preparatory program while empowering students to know themselves as learners. As girls begin to grow and demonstrate particular areas of academic strength and skill, Honors and Advanced Placement classes are added to the program. In the Upper School, most departments offer Honors and/or AP courses.

The process for sectioning is thorough and collaborative. Students are sectioned according to the criteria and skills deemed necessary by each department for that discipline as well as expectations for studentship (i.e., organization, study skills, time management, and seriousness of purpose). Sectioning is primarily based on teacher recommendations and other information. Teachers and advisors discuss the criteria and expectations for each section with the girls in order to help them set goals and plan a challenging and balanced academic program. The sectioning process honors the significant growth and change that can take place during the Middle and Upper School years.

Student placement is reviewed each year.

Springside, via teachers, advisors, department heads, and the Head of Upper School, makes the final decision regarding placement. The course sectioning process begins in early April.

STUDY OUTSIDE OF S PRINGSIDE Upper School students who wish to receive a Springside diploma are expected to participate fully in the academic life of the school during their Upper School years. This involves not only meeting graduation requirements, but also being on campus to benefit from the means and methods of classroom teachers, academic advisors, and college guidance classes. A Springside diploma, in other words, should reflect a Springside education.

Occasionally, a student may have a compelling reason to pursue her Upper School education away from Springside. The school reserves the right to decide, on a case-by-case basis, if the courses taken at other institutions meet Springside’s standards. The school also reserves the right to decide if a student will have attended Springside sufficiently to earn a Springside diploma. In the case of accumulated absence from Springside for more than a year, the school may decide to deny the diploma.

PASS/FAIL Juniors and seniors may elect to take a nonrequired course on a pass/fail basis (though not an AP course). This course must be beyond the fifth credit for a junior and beyond the fourth credit for a senior. Students must apply before the end of the second week of a semester to the Head of Upper School for permission to take a course pass/fail.

Pass/fail courses are not computed in the grade point average.

A student who wishes to continue her Upper School education away from Springside School should notify the Head of Upper School of her intentions as far in advance of the departure date as possible. A minimum of three months notice is expected. The student should write a letter to the Head of Upper School stating the extent and nature of her absence, as well as her reasons for wishing to study elsewhere. Arrangements for continued study should be spelled out in detail. Names of contact people and phone numbers must be provided if plans are to be approved.

INDEPENDENT STUDY The option of Independent Study is available for students who demonstrate a particular interest in an area of study, which either is not offered as part of our regular curriculum or extends beyond our normal offerings. It is expected that the student will have taken all appropriate foundation courses. In its usual form, Independent Study is one student working with one faculty member. Occasionally, students may be permitted to pursue independent study with a partner. ISPs are usually only available to juniors and seniors. Students must be in good academic standing and have already demonstrated the ability to work independently to the satisfaction of those whose approval is required. An ISP will

Approval by the Upper School faculty indicates only that the projected plan of study does not jeopardize the student’s opportunity to receive a Springside diploma. Decisions about credit, passing or failing, or grade point average are made at the 8

end of the student’s period of study. In some cases, students may be asked to pass our final examination. Because different schools have widely varying systems of grading, Springside cannot guarantee that grades earned at another institution will be weighted equally with grades at Springside.

This may affect eligibility for admission to the Cum Laude Society and the computation of the grade point average for the NCAA Clearinghouse.

Students should also consult the Director of College Counseling to discuss any implications for college admission.

these must be tried before the student may drop the course. The student’s advisor will call a meeting of the student, teacher, and department head to create a plan of action and a timetable for review of the situation. The goal is to resolve the issues. The minimum will be two weeks before a follow-up meeting. The student will submit a written copy of the plan to the Head of Upper School.

5. If, after these remedies are exhausted, the student still thinks that dropping the course would be beneficial, the student must write a letter of petition to the Head of Upper School describing the problem and the remedies that have been attempted. The letter must be signed by the parents and the advisor. The Head of Upper School discusses this petition with the department heads and is the person who makes the final decision.

6. If the petition is granted, the Head of Upper School will contact the teacher and advisor to discuss an orderly departure from the course.

Any grades already on the student’s transcript will remain there.

DROP/ADD OPTION Because the course sectioning and elective selection process is so thorough and involves the student, her parents/guardian, advisor, department heads, and teachers, students are strongly discouraged from adding or dropping courses once the school year begins. However, full year and first semester courses may be added and/or dropped by a specified date during the second week of school.

Second semester courses may be added and/or dropped by a specified date during the second week of the second semester. These dates are listed on the school calendar. Courses may be dropped or added only with permission of the advisor, department head, Director of College Counseling, and Head of Upper School.

CHANGING LEVELS IN A COURSE The school encourages students to work with their current teachers and advisors to find the best placement in each course. A student wanting to change levels in a course, however, should follow this procedure:

DROPPING A COURSE AFTER THE FIRST TWO WEEKS OF THE SEMESTER The school discourages dropping a course once the school year has begun. Occasionally situations may arise where such a course of action should be considered. A student wishing to drop a course must pick up a withdrawal form and follow this procedure:

1. The student must notify the Head of Upper School of the issues leading to a desire for a change. The Head of Upper School will then review the policy for changing levels with the student and call the parents to notify them of the same process.

2. The Head of Upper School will talk with the department head and the student’s teacher and advisor to find out whether or not the student has worked hard to solve any problems in the course. If the student has remedies at hand that have not been tried, these need to be tried before the student can change levels.

3. If all remedies have been exhausted, and if the department head, teacher, advisor, and Director of College Counseling are in agreement, the student may write a letter of petition to the Head of Upper School for a change in levels. This letter should be signed by the parents and the advisor. The Head of Upper School discusses this petition with the department heads. The Head of Upper School makes the final decision.

1. The student must notify the Head of Upper School of the issues leading to a desire for a change. The Head of Upper School will review the policy for dropping courses with the student and call the parents to explain the process.

2. If a student has had a long-term illness, the student may withdraw from the course for medical reasons. The course remains on the transcript with the designation “WM.” The student should follow steps 5 and 6.

3. A student may withdraw from a course because she is consistently failing. The course remains on the transcript with the designation “WF.” The student should follow steps 5 and 6.

4. When neither of the above situations pertains, but a student continues to want to drop a course, the Head of Upper School will talk with the student’s teacher and advisor to find out if the student has worked hard to solve any problems in the course. If the student has remedies at hand that have not been tried,

If a change is made, the Head of Upper School will contact the classroom teacher to arrange a smooth transition. In computing quarter and semester grades, the grades earned in the “H” level section 9

will be figured into the regular level course at onethird higher level. Grades already on the student’s transcript remain as they have been entered.

have learning issues that can be addressed by informal and formal accommodations. Teachers and administrators work hard to make certain that students have a variety of activities, assignments, and assessments that best allow them to learn as well as demonstrate their knowledge. Students who seek individualized accommodations must comply with the following guidelines and criteria to demonstrate the need for such accommodations.

CHANGING TO A PARALLEL SECTION OF A COURSE The school discourages students from moving between sections of a course once that course has begun. On rare occasions, however, there may be a valid reason for doing so. A student hoping to move between parallel sections of a specific course must complete the following procedure:

1. Need must be documented by testing that: a. Has occurred with a maximum of three calendar years of the initial request for accommodations b. Was conducted by a certified school psychologist in the case of a learning issue, and a psychiatrist if the student seeks accommodations for a mental health issue c. Provides a comprehensive evaluation that meets state guidelines for educational accommodations d. Provides documentation of functioning that is below expected and impairment in daily functioning that is significant enough to warrant accommodation e. Contains evidence for the need of specific accommodations 2. The report of the evaluation must be submitted in full to Springside where it will be reviewed by the Educational Psychologist.

3. The Educational Psychologist, in collaboration with the Division Head and/or Department Head will determine which recommendations are to be implemented by the school. These recommended accommodations will be delineated in the Official Accommodations Plan (OAP).

4. Both the school and parent(s) will review the OAP and sign it before the plan will take effect.

5. The OAP will be reviewed annually to ensure that it remains both necessary and sufficient to provide appropriate supports to the student.

1. The student must inform the Head of Upper School of the specific issues leading to the desire for a change.

2. The Head of Upper School reviews the policy with the student and calls her parents to inform them of the process.

3. The student, the student’s advisor, the department head, and the classroom teacher involved create a plan of action. The student will submit a copy of the plan, signed by the advisor, department head, and the classroom teacher, to the Head of Upper School. The goal is to resolve the issues. A follow-up meeting will occur no earlier than two weeks after the plan has been implemented.

4. If, after these remedies are exhausted, the student still believes that a change in sections would be beneficial, the student may petition the Head of Upper School in writing to change sections. The petition should include a statement of the continuing issues, steps taken to improve the situation, and perceived gains to be made from changing sections.

5. The Head of Upper School will review the petition with department heads.

6. The final decision will be made by the Head of Upper School.

7. If a change is agreed upon, the classroom teachers (of each section of the class), the department head, and the student’s advisor will resolve problems of transition created by the change. In computing quarter and semester grades, the teacher of the new section will include any grades earned by the student in the section left.

EXTENDED TIME Students who wish to use the formal/official accommodation of extended time (time and a half) on classroom tests and exams and standardized tests must have documentation as described above.

If a student does not have such documentation but thinks she needs extended time, she should discuss this with her advisor, who will consult with the Educational Psychologist the student’s teachers. If recommended, a trial period of extended time may be offered for one quarter. Prior to implementation, parental permission in writing must be provided.

Once the trial period has ended, the educational psychologist, with feedback from relevant faculty, will discuss with the student’s parent(s) whether psycho-educational testing is recommended.

EXAMS Exams are given in January and at the end of the school year. Students must arrive at least 15 minutes before their exams begin. Students who arrive late to exams may not be allowed to take their exams that day. Students who miss an exam without a valid reason must take the exam the next day with a full grade penalty for lateness.

STUDENT ACADEMIC ACCOMMODATIONS Springside School recognizes that even within a population of high achieving students, some will 10

If a student is granted a trial period of extended time or provided with extended time as a formal/official accommodation, the student must notify her teachers at least one day ahead if she wishes to use extended time on a test or exam.

Teachers may “split” the exam, by handing the student part of the test or exam to take during the regular class period and allowing the student to return at a later time to finish. Taking tests in a timely manner is a student’s responsibility.

Although there should be reasonable flexibility to accommodate other school commitments, students are expected to take their extended time on the day of the test or the exam. The extra time should come from unscheduled periods or during study hall. A student may not miss class time from another course to complete an extended time test. Students who use extended time must not discuss the work in question with other students. If they find themselves in a setting where the work is being discussed, they must leave immediately.

completed over the winter vacation before fall semester exams. A single night’s homework may be assigned over other short holiday periods, e.g., Columbus Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and Presidents’ Day weekends.

RELIGIOUS HOLIDAYS Homework will not be assigned over religious holidays widely observed in the CHASS community; tests, papers, quizzes, and other graded assignments will not be due on or immediately after such holidays. With advance notice, teachers will accommodate students who are excused to observe religious holidays not widely recognized by the school. If parents have questions about the process of excusing students for religious holidays, they should contact the Head of Upper School.

FAILED COURSES Any student who fails one or more required courses, including a non-credit course, must make it up through departmentally approved work before the start of school in September of the next school year. A required course is a course that is needed to fulfill the graduation requirements at Springside.

Most of the time, and certainly in math and foreign languages, this will include passing the course teacher’s final exam. Failure to meet the department’s requirements will mean the student may not return to school unless an exception is made by decision of the faculty of the student’s home school.

EXTENDED TIME AND COLLEGE TESTING Parents and students should consult with the Director of College Counseling for questions about extended time on PSATs, ACTs, SATs, APs, and other standardized tests.

CALCULATOR POLICY At Springside and Chestnut Hill Academy calculators are tools to facilitate learning. In math classes, the use of calculators will vary with each topic. The inappropriate use of calculators raises questions of academic honesty. Students should speak with their teachers if questions arise regarding the proper use of calculators.

At Springside, this decision is made by the department heads at a meeting chaired by the Head of Upper School. The student may petition the department heads, explaining her situation and the action she would like the school to take. She may request to repeat the grade. The student’s advisor and any other faculty members may attend the meetings where the petition is discussed to add information relevant to the student’s situation. The decision will be made by majority vote of the department heads, which includes the heads of each of the academic departments, the Director of College Counseling, the Director of Libraries, the Dean of Students, Director of Educational Technology, and the Head of Upper School.

HOMEWORK POLICY Generally, each teacher will assign homework for each class meeting. Students should expect to spend at least two hours outside of class studying and completing homework. This amount of time will vary, depending on the nature of the courses and assignments and on the study methods of the students. Students should expect up to 50 minutes of homework per class. Assignments in preparation for the extended class meetings on days 6 and 7 may be longer, up to 70 minutes at the most.

Homework can only be assigned on the day that the class meets and cannot be doubled on the days the class drops off the schedule. Students should make use of free periods and study halls for review, study, and completion of assignments, as well as meeting with teachers.

Any student who fails two or more courses for the year will not be allowed to return to Springside in the fall unless an exception is made in June by decision of the department heads and the Head of Upper School.

HOLIDAYS No regular homework is assigned over Thanksgiving, winter, and spring vacations. If a student is having difficulty in a course, her teacher may send a special review assignment home to be

In order to ask for an exception, the student may petition the department heads at a meeting chaired by the Head of Upper School. She should explain her situation and the action she would like the school to take. She may ask to repeat the grade.

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The student’s advisor and any other faculty members may attend the meetings where the petition is discussed to add information relevant to the student’s situation. The decision will be made by majority vote of the department heads, which includes the heads of each of the academic departments, the Director of College Counseling, the Director of Libraries, the Dean of Students, and the Head of Upper School. Students granted such an exception would need to meet all the requirements set by the faculty in order to return to Springside the following fall.

delaying the work in question would disrupt the teacher’s plans for class activities. Extensions may not go beyond the end of classes in a marking period.

INCOMPLETE GRADES Incomplete grades must be made up. “Incompletes” are given only in cases of sickness or other emergencies that justify non-completion of course work at the usual time. An appropriate deadline will be set and communicated in writing to the student, parents, and advisor. An Incomplete will become a failing grade if the work is not made up by the deadline. An Incomplete will keep a student off the Honor Roll until the work is made up.

LATE WORK All graded work must be completed regardless of its lateness. The penalty for each school day of lateness is the reduction of the grade by one full grade level. Each department reserves the right to lessen the penalty depending on the situation.

Students are strongly encouraged to use the Student Academic Support period (SAS) at the end of the day to get help with the work and teachers may require a student’s attendance if late or missing work becomes a pattern.

PROMOTION To be promoted to the next grade level (and for a senior to graduate), a student must have at least an overall grade average of C– and no grade below D– in courses that receive credit. In order to continue from level one to level two, and from level two to level three in any foreign language, a student must attain a minimum grade of C for the year. A student who does not earn this minimum grade will be required to complete a summer course of study and to pass an examination, both of which must be approved by the department head. All courses must be passed unless special arrangements have been made. This policy also applies to non-credit courses such as Life Issues and physical education.

A student who does not meet these requirements will either not be allowed to continue at Springside School, or she will have to meet other conditions before the start of the next school year, such as retaking a final exam or repeating a course in summer school. These conditions will be decided upon by the Head of Upper School and the department head in the course(s) concerned.

Failure to complete these requirements successfully will result in the student not being allowed to enroll at Springside in September.

Students who have work outstanding at the end of the quarter because of illness or other significant difficulty and who, with the authorization of their advisor and the Head of Upper School, have made arrangements with their teachers, may receive an “Incomplete” at the end of the quarter. Teachers may reduce the amount of work that needs to be made up in such cases, and the student should make up the outstanding work within two weeks or the end of the third quarter for second semester seniors. If an exam period follows the end of the quarter, the work should be made up within two weeks following the student’s last exam. A quarter grade is entered when the work is complete.

Students who have work outstanding at the end of the quarter and who do not have the authorization of their advisor and the Head of Upper School will have up to one week to turn the work in. If an exam period follows the end of the quarter, the work must be made up within a week following the last exam. Failure to do so will result in an “F” for the quarter.

A senior must pass all required courses and earn five full credits during her senior year in order to graduate. Seniors failing a course must make up the course work before beginning their Senior Projects.

Failure to meet the make-up requirements may mean the student will not graduate.

SENIOR EXTENSIONS For the first semester of the school year, Chestnut Hill Academy and Springside School allow seniors the following variation of the established policy of downgrading work that is submitted late: each senior will, by arrangement with teachers at least two days ahead of due dates, have without penalty one extension of a due date per course up to a maximum of five consecutive days per extension.

The extensions may be used for any test calendar item. Teachers may deny the request only if

Seniors who fail to meet these requirements will be regarded as having failed the course until the work is made up in a manner specified by the teacher and the Head of Upper School (e.g., retaking the test or completing other substantial work). This option will be offered only to those seniors whose effort and attitude have been satisfactory throughout the semester. Seniors failing a course who are allowed to make up the work must do so prior to going on Senior Project. The Senior Project 12

may be adjusted under these circumstances. Failure to meet all the stipulated requirements may mean that the senior will not graduate.

major projects due on any given day. Students should receive at least five school days advance notice of any test or paper. If a student has more than two tests or papers or projects due on the same day, she should notify the teacher whose assignment was entered last on the test calendar in order to reschedule the assignment for the next school day.

ACADEMIC RESTRICTION A student will be placed on Academic Restriction if she earns a final grade of D or below in any course, an end of quarter average of D or below, if she is failing a course, if she has been consistently irresponsible about completing assignments, or if she shows a continuous lack of effort. Restrictions will vary according to the student, but generally students need more structured study time in their days. Most “free” periods become mandatory study hall time in such cases. A student on Academic Restriction may be withdrawn from sports and activities and may be asked to remain at school during school trips. Academic Restriction may extend from six weeks to a semester, and the student’s status is reviewed at the end of each quarter in a meeting with the student, her parents or guardian, and the Head of Upper School. A letter to the family is sent after this meeting, and a copy is placed in the student’s permanent file, outlining the details of the Academic Restriction. A student on Academic Restriction must understand that her academic performance is falling below Springside standards and that her performance must improve in order to be promoted at the end of the year. Generally, a student whose average remains at the D level or below for two consecutive quarters or who is failing two courses will be asked to leave Springside School.

REBMANN FUND Students who wish to pursue summer study after their junior year may apply for monies through the Rebmann Fund. Such “study” can include internships, work/study, or community service opportunities. The competition for Rebmann awards will take place in March. Applications are available for download on the Springside website.

Applicants will be judged on the basis of: 1. Demonstrated interest in the subject area/topic of the chosen program.

2. The quality of information provided by student about the program to the Committee with the written application.

3. The anticipated benefit of the program to the personal growth of the student.

4. The overall thoughtfulness and thoroughness of the application and the ability to discuss the program knowledgably at the interview with the Rebmann Committee.

Please note: Funds are distributed directly to the agency with which the student will be studying or working. No student may apply to the Rebmann Fund or to any other source of school funds if the family already owes money to the school.

STUDY HALL All ninth and tenth grade students are assigned to one study hall each day if their schedule permits.

Students must attend all of the study halls printed on their schedules. The primary purpose of study hall is to allow students the opportunity to do homework in a quiet setting with few distractions.

Students may also get extra help from teachers, work on papers in the computer lab, do research in the library, or take make-up tests during study hall only if they present a signed “study hall pass” to the study hall proctor before study hall begins.

Upperclass students who are having academic difficulty may also be assigned study halls to help them better meet their academic obligations.

COLLEGE COUNSELING Springside offers a dynamic and comprehensive college counseling program. Beginning in grade 9, students participate in personalized and group sessions with counselors directing students through course selection, standardized testing, summer activities, and various other components of the Upper School experience. As students advance through Springside and become more focused on the college process, so does the counseling program. By senior year, students are fully informed, directed, and engaged in the college search and application process. The college counselors assist students in the realization of each student’s personalized post-secondary goals. One hundred percent of Springside graduates are accepted to four-year colleges.

TEST CALENDAR All Upper School tests, papers, and projects at Springside and Chestnut Hill Academy are recorded on the online test calendar. Students should have no more than two tests or papers or

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ATHLETICS Springside is a member of the Girls Interacademic Athletic Association, commonly referred to as the “Inter-Ac.” Most sports have both varsity and junior varsity teams.

7. Driving to games is not permitted except in unusual circumstances. In such cases, the player must bring a parental note to the Athletic Director for a signature. The player will then have the note signed by the Head of Upper School and give the signed note to her coach.

Other players who expect to ride in a studentdriven vehicle must also have a signed note.

8. It is important for varsity and junior varsity teams to support one another. If a sport has more than one team, all players are required to be present for both games. Transportation arrangements must be made accordingly.

9. Game uniforms are to be returned clean at the end of the season. Failure to return a uniform by the posted deadline will result in a grade of “Incomplete” and the student will not receive acknowledgement that she has completed the sport. The student will be billed for any unreturned or damaged uniform items.

10. If a player has to perform a sanction as a result of a disciplinary action, the school policy is followed. Repeated infractions will result in a meeting with the Athletic Director and possible dismissal from the team.

11. Coaches decide when the Athletic Director and Head of Upper School or Dean of Students will become involved in a discussion regarding an athlete’s behavior or conduct.

12. If an official removes a player from a game for unsportsmanlike conduct, the player will automatically serve a suspension from the next game.

13. In order to receive credit for participation on a sports team, an individual must be present at practice and games for 85% of the time. Failure to meet this requirement will result in a failing grade and no credit for the season.

14. Students who are dismissed from a team will receive an “F” for the quarters during which they played and/or would have played their sport.

15. If a student drops a sport within the first two weeks of the season, she can take PE to fulfill the requirement. If she drops the sport after two weeks, she will receive an “Incomplete”.

16. In rare instances, Middle School students may be granted permission to participate on the Upper School teams. Students should see the Athletic Director for more information.

17. Athletes must store their athletic equipment and clothing in their field house or school locker.

No athletic equipment may be stored in halls, common spaces, or bathrooms.

ATHLETIC GUIDELINES It is an honor to be a member of a team and represent Springside. Team members act as role models with their dedication, commitment, and sportsmanship. As members of the Springside community, athletes are expected to know and adhere to all Springside policies and rules. This refers to policies regarding discipline, uniform, drugs, attendance, academic integrity, and behavior in general. Violation of Springside’s rules may jeopardize team membership.

1. The purpose of a team is to be a TEAM. Commitment is a key ingredient. Each team member is expected to participate in the activity to the best of her ability. Anyone who is not a positive contributor to the team has the right to be removed from the team by the coach and Athletic Director.

2. Fall pre-season and winter and spring break practices are mandatory. Failure to participate in practice during pre-season or vacation time may jeopardize an athlete’s position on a team.

Daily practices are routine and team members are expected to participate daily. Timeliness is important.

3. All students are expected to be in school by 8:00 AM. Students who arrive after 11:00 AM will not be allowed to participate in afterschool sports, including practice, though they must attend the activity.

4. A student who has an excused absence from school is also excused from athletics. Students must not schedule conflicts (e.g., doctor’s appointments or tutoring) during after-school sports time. Any unexcused absence will result in a disciplinary action. Repeated absences or tardiness will result in a meeting with the Athletic Director and possible dismissal from the team. (See #13.)

5. Players must be at practice the day before a game in order to start. If a player is excused from practice, the coach will determine whether she can play and/or start in the game.

If the player has an unexcused absence, she will not be allowed to play in the game.

6. A captain is an important role model and leader of the team. The coach has the right to replace a captain due to lack of leadership or responsibility.

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18. Students changing for sports must use the locker rooms or bathrooms in the field house.

5. Encourages and supports all team players, promoting team spirit and unity.

6. Is able to communicate with the coaches and players.

7. Brings any team problems and/or issues to the coaches.

8. Displays good sportsmanship, teamwork, solid work ethic, discipline, and focus to the rest of the team.

9. Always maintains a positive attitude.

Participating in interscholastic athletics is a rewarding and demanding experience. Being mindful of the above guidelines contributes to the team’s and the athlete’s success.

TEAM CAPTAINS CAPTAIN ’S RESPONSIBILITIES A captain displays the following leadership qualities both on and off the field:

Athletic team captains are elected by a different process that involves only team members and coaches. Captains are not necessarily the most popular or best players on their team. They must, however, demonstrate specific leadership qualities and abilities. A captain is responsible, respected as a player and as an individual, helpful when athletes have problems with the team or coaches, leads through example, and communicates effectively with coaches.

1. Is the team liaison with the officials.

2. If there is a problem during the game, the captain will notify their coach(es) and approach the official in the proper manner.

3. Is a positive role model and sets a good example as the team leader.

4. Is easy to talk to and gets along with others.

EXTRACURRICULAR BOARDS

Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania independent schools. The organization also brings in speakers, sponsors town meetings on community issues, and works to keep Springside a place where differences are respected.

Boards are student organizations that offer cocurricular support to the entire Upper School program. Each board or club must have a student head and an adult advisor. Boards and clubs must meet on a regular basis and the meeting times and places must be communicated to the student body via announcements or posted materials. Board and club heads are charged with setting the agenda for each meeting, taking attendance, and running the meeting. Minutes for each meeting must be recorded in a designated journal provided to each board or club head.

COMMUNITY SERVICE BOARD The Community Service Board serves Springside by providing a variety of volunteer opportunities for student participation. The board works in partnership with many local organizations to match students with projects that are of interest to them.

Separate from Service Board but connected by mission, the Springside Science Outreach program, which began in 1991, is a combination of science education and community service. Though not a board, Science Outreach provides a much-needed service to elementary and middle school-aged children and their families on many levels by enriching their overall learning experience by teaching them science in a fun, yet meaningful way. The children get to solve science and engineering problems by designing and creating their own solutions (pasta towers, balloon-powered cars, etc.) and conduct experiments that illustrate particular science concepts (magnetism, states of matter, etc.), with the help of Springside students who serve as mentors and role models for aspiring young scientists. Students in Science Outreach go to the United Cerebral Palsy of Philadelphia agency at least once each month to work with adults on hand-on science projects. The organization also participates in the High School Women in Science Fairs at Glenside Elementary School and Cheltenham Elementary School in April and May.

ASSEMBLY BOARD Members of the Assembly Board are responsible for planning morning and afternoon assemblies, inviting and introducing speakers, holding town meetings on issues that affect the community, and delivering the weekly announcements.

ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION The role of the Athletic Association is to support the extensive athletic program at Springside. In addition to assisting with Homecoming festivities, members of the Athletic Association work to increase attendance at sporting events, promote school spirit, and celebrate the achievements of athletes at the end-ofthe year athletic award ceremony.

CAFE (CULTURAL AWARENESS FOR EVERYONE) CAFE is a student group that promotes cultural awareness within the Springside community. The board sponsors several major events each year, including the All-for-One Conference, a daylong series of workshops presented by students attending 15

PERFORMING ARTS BOARD Springside supports and encourages participation in all areas of the performing arts, including instrumental and vocal music, drama, and dance.

The Performing Arts Board strives to provide opportunities for students to become educated appreciators of all areas of the arts, regardless of participation in performance activities. The board, comprised of both elected and voluntary representatives from all grades in the Upper School, provides both a forum for discussion of arts ideas and a base from which arts activities originate.

Performing Arts Board members are committed to providing arts-related services to others, to supporting the performing arts in the school and in the greater community, and to promoting interest in arts activities.

representatives, paying attention to public complaints, and organizing town meetings, we act as a loudspeaker to the Springside community.” All class officers are members of Student Government.

The board is also responsible for running student elections in April of each year.

STUDENT PUBLICATIONS LITERARY MAGAZINE The Pub, Springside’s literary magazine, is a journal “intended as a forum where Upper School students can share their ideas and opinions and express their creativity.” The mission of The Pub is to “bring together the varied ideas and perspectives of the Upper School student body.” Students are encouraged to submit original poems, short stories, song lyrics, drawings, photographs, prose, essays, and other forms of expression.

Players is the name of the coordinate theater group.

Students stage two productions each year, one during the winter and another during the spring.

The organization is open to all students in the Upper School at Springside and Chestnut Hill Academy who are interested in acting or working on set construction, light, sound, makeup, props, costumes, or business and publicity. The plays have a three-night run and are performed in the Albert B. Conkey Performing Arts Center, better known as the “Rec,” a multipurpose facility on the Chestnut Hill Academy campus. Any student may audition for a role in the play.

NEWSPAPER The Paw Print is the student newspaper that provides the Upper School with news and events occurring both at Springside and in the larger community. Special sections include arts and entertainment, opinions and editorials, sports and health, school news, and “fun stuff.”

YEARBOOK Students on the yearbook staff are responsible for all aspects of the production of the yearbook, including layout, advertisements, page design, and budgetary matters. The yearbook covers all grades in the Lower, Middle, and Upper Schools.

STUDENT ACTIVITIES BOARD The purpose of the Student Activities Board is to provide Springside students with school-sponsored social opportunities after classes end. Though the board is responsible for the Homecoming dance, the semi-formal Winter Ball, and the spring dance, it also supports other venues that add to the quality of life of students at Springside. Student Activities is also responsible for keeping a calendar of student events and for disbursing funds marked for student groups.

STUDENT CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS Clubs differ from boards in that their creation is completely student-initiated. Students who have an interest in starting a club should speak with the Dean of Students about that interest. The dean will ask the student to submit a proposal that addresses the purpose of the club and the details of the proposed club’s operation. The Head of Upper School and the Dean of Students review all proposals. Some of the clubs offered during the 2009–2010 school year included:

STUDENT GOVERNMENT The mission statement of Student Government proclaims: “At Springside, we are all student government, for each representative speaks with the voice of her classmates. Springside creates a diverse atmosphere where learning is valued. By acting as the heart of this family, we work to link all of the constituencies at Springside as well as to link the student body with the wider world. We are responsible for every voice and committed to addressing the concerns and opinions of the students. We strive to make the environment more spirited and supportive and to encourage respect for people and property. We recognize committed and dedicated members of the student body and promote leadership. By meeting with

ARTS CLUB

FRENCH CLUB

CHINESE CLUB

MATH CLUB

CURRENT EVENTS

MOCK TRIAL

DOUJINSHI CLUB

MODEL UN

GAY/STRAIGHT ALLIANCE ROBOTICS GIRLS FOR CHANGE

SPANISH CLUB

ISITE

STUDENT GUIDES

LATIN CLUB

SENEGALITE

FASHION CLUB

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STUDENT ELECTIONS

4. Ballots are counted by the class advisors.

Results are posted by the class advisors once winners have been determined.

5. Students who are absent on the due date for nominations should call in their selfnomination to a class advisor. Should a nominee be absent for her speech, the class advisors, in consultation with the outgoing class president and the Head of Upper School, may choose to postpone the election.

6. Class advisors are responsible for conducting elections and may involve student leadership as appropriate.

In April, ninth, tenth, and eleventh grade students may run for positions as heads of various Upper School boards. The following rules apply: 1. Students may nominate others or themselves by notifying the faculty advisor to Student Government by a published date. Students may accept or decline a nomination.

2. Students may not run jointly (as co-heads) for any position.

3. No student may hold more than one leadership position at any given time (e.g., class officer, class representative to a board, board head, editor or co-editor of a publication, head of Student Guides) unless she petitions the faculty advisor to Student Government and the Head of Upper School.

4. Students running for any office must give a speech.

5. Voting is by written secret ballot.

6. If there is a tie, a run-off election is held the next day. Each candidate must give a brief speech, and only those present may vote.

7. Ballots are counted by the faculty advisor to Student Government. Results are posted once a winner is determined.

8. In the event a candidate for an office is unable to give a speech on the designated day, the election may be postponed at the discretion of the Head of Upper School.

In event of a run-off election which results in a tie, the candidates will meet with the Head of Upper School, Dean of Students, and the appropriate faculty advisors to outline a plan for resolving the dilemma.

COMMUNITY SERVICE AT SPRINGSIDE As a member of the Springside community, each student is encouraged to consider participating in a larger world community as a part of her educational experience. Springside’s Upper School has put in place a service-learning model that asks students to do more than simply volunteer. In addition to spending time working with community organizations, students will be able to process their experiences by discussing relevant issues with students, faculty, and community leaders. The goal is to make service more meaningful to students and the community by combining action and reflection.

Editors of the yearbook, literary magazine, and the newspaper are selected by the current editors and their faculty advisor(s) through a process specific to each publication. This process will consist of a mix of the following: evaluation of the candidate’s contribution to the publication in the previous years, an interview, an essay, and other relevant information. Heads of clubs are appointed by faculty advisors or voted on by the club membership.

Though Springside students are not required to fill a specific number of community service hours before they graduate, students must participate in several community activities during their years at Springside. Every student is required to participate in the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service held every year in mid-January. Students may select projects held at Springside or in the community on the day of or the weekend before the MLK Jr. Day of Service. During their junior year, students engage in an individual or small group service activity that they design themselves. In addition, each class in the Upper School is strongly encouraged to organize and participate in a class service project. All members of the class are expected to attend the activity organized by the class service board representatives.

Following the election of board heads, students elect class officers. Rules 3–7 above apply. In addition, the following rules govern class elections: 1. Class officers shall be elected first, and board representatives on another day, as convenient.

2. The names of all nominees should be submitted to the class faculty advisors by a published date. The class advisors will prepare the ballot, and all class officers shall be elected on the same ballot. Students may run for only one office.

3. The election of class representatives to boards shall be handled in an identical manner on a separate ballot.

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SPRINGSIDE SCHOOL POLICIES ACADEMIC HONESTY/PLAGIARISM

Students unsure of whether to use a footnote, endnote, or other means of acknowledgement should ask their teachers and school librarians.

In accordance with Springside’s Code of Conduct and CHA’s five jersey stripes as well as the CHASS Code of Honor, students are expected to conduct themselves according to the highest standards of honesty. Any act of academic dishonesty—cheating in any form, including plagiarism—undermines the integrity of the learning process, violates core values of the academic community, and constitutes a major breach of conduct. Each school has a discipline committee that deals with cases of academic dishonesty. Together, they have a Coordinate Discipline Committee for cases involving both schools.

Students may not offer their work as a source for other students’ academic work. Students who offer their work to other students are also in violation of the schools’ policy on academic honesty.

Ignorance is not an excuse for academic dishonesty.

CITATION It is essential that a reader is able to ascertain quickly and unmistakably the sources used by a writer. Work submitted by students frequently contains information and/or wording from a wide variety of sources. Whenever a student uses one or more sources in a given piece of work, s/he must properly document the sources used. Whether the writer intends deception or not, failure to provide clear, accurate documentation of sources is plagiarism and a serious breech of school policy and the proper relationship between writer and reader.

Cheating is the act of obtaining or attempting to obtain credit for academic work through the use of deceptive, dishonest, or fraudulent means.

EXAMPLES OF ACADEMIC DISHONESTY INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING: 1. Copying, in part or in whole, someone else’s work, whether done in class or outside class.

2. Allowing another student to copy your work.

3. Using or consulting, during a graded assessment, sources not authorized by the teacher.

4. Giving academic work to another student to plagiarize, e.g., homework and research papers.

5. Having another student submit any work in your name.

6. Altering graded work after it has been returned and resubmitting it for re-grading.

7. Sharing test questions with students who have yet to take the test.

8. Submitting work previously submitted for another assignment or in another course.

ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY (AUP) Technology at Springside School supports and enhances the work of faculty, students, and staff in furthering the mission of the school. Every student, faculty, and staff member will have full access to the technology essential to fulfilling assignments and job responsibilities.

Access to technology at Springside is a privilege and not a right and is governed by Springside School’s Acceptable Use Policy. Any violation or suspected violation of the school’s AUP will result in disciplinary action, including the removal of technology use privileges, temporary or permanent removal from school and/or cooperation with appropriate outside agencies.

Academic honesty requires giving credit to others through citations and bibliographies so that ideas can be traced from their genesis to the present.

Students are responsible for giving appropriate credit to the ideas and work of other students, scholars and sources. Academic honesty includes respecting the concept of “intellectual property” as it applies to all electronic and print sources.

The Springside School AUP incorporates the ethical codes clearly outlined in existing school policies and handbooks requiring respect for the work and rights of all others, within and outside of our community. In addition to the specific guidelines listed later in this section, technology users at Springside are responsible for handling and operating all computer equipment with care.

EXAMPLES OF PLAGIARISM INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING : 1. Direct copying from a source without quotations and/or footnotes.

2. Copying with scattered word changes without proper citation.

3. Summarizing another author without giving proper credit to the source.

4. Putting another person’s ideas into your own words without proper citation.

5. Downloading information from any electronic source without citation.

All members of the Springside community are required to follow the Acceptable Use Policy when using computers and the network at Springside School to ensure the appropriate use, security and accessibility of the computing environment, and equipment essential to the work of our learning community.

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• The Springside School network may not be used for illegal activity, for accessing or transmitting offensive materials, hate mail, material advocating violence or discrimination, or for obtaining obscene or pornographic material.

• The network may not be used for purposes of profit, for lobbying or advertising, or to disseminate information to the Springside community of a personal interest.

• Creating or forwarding inappropriate (meanspirited, racist, pornographic, false, etc.) material is strictly prohibited.

• The Springside network may not be used by anyone to disrupt the use of the network by another member of the community.

• Accessing or attempting to access another user’s account without permission is strictly prohibited.

Users may not intentionally seek information on, obtain copies of, or modify files, data, or passwords belonging to other users on the network.

• Student access of non-school email accounts, including chat and instant messaging, is not allowed.

• The introduction of computer viruses into the school community’s network is expressly prohibited. If a virus is encountered, a member of the Information Technology (IT) Department should be notified immediately.

• Unauthorized copying or distribution of software or multimedia is illegal and prohibited.

All software used on Springside computers must be properly licensed by the IT Department. The illegal downloading of copyrighted material, both text based and images, is illegal and unethical.

• Software may not be installed on any computer without the assistance of the IT Department.

Games may not be installed on Springside computers at any time. School-approved computer games and websites that house games may only be accessed at specifically designated times.

• Computer hardware and software settings (i.e., the desktop, Internet settings) may not be altered at any time. Hardware may not be moved from its location except by the IT Department.

• Use of any “hacking” software to compromise or monitor Springside’s data is prohibited.

• Use of technology outside of Springside which infringes upon the safety or privacy of any individual within the Springside School/Chestnut Hill Academy community, uses the school name(s), or compromises the reputation of Springside or Chestnut Hill Academy will result in appropriate action within the school(s). These actions may include disciplinary responses or cooperation with outside agencies.

GUIDELINES FOR RESPONSIBLE USE OF COMPUTERS AND THE NETWORK AT SPRINGSIDE SCHOOL In addition to the Acceptable Use Policy, please read the following guidelines to help you in making ethical and responsible decisions regarding your use of Springside’s computing resources.

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•

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Use of school technology, including any portable or laptop computers, is for education or job-related activities.

Electronic communication is not confidential.

Electronic mail, data files, server space, and Internet access are not private, and users should not assume privacy. Electronic communication may be monitored, filtered, and checked if necessary. All electronic communication, even after history is cleared and files deleted, leaves a digital “footprint” and can be retraced. Personal information (phone number, home address, social security number, credit card) should only be posted on the Internet or in electronic correspondence with the utmost amount of discretion. Personal information about any other person(s) should not be posted online without the consent of the person.

Tone is difficult to discern in electronic communication. Electronic communication is best used as a medium for disseminating factual information and should not be regarded as a replacement for face-to-face communication.

Your computer account is designated for your use only and other people’s accounts are restricted to their use. Access to Springside’s technology resources is password protected with passwords initially assigned by the IT Department, then routinely changed by the user. Passwords should be alphanumeric combinations not easily guessed by others and should not be shared with anyone. Springside network users should always logoff or shut down computers when they are finished using the network.

Electronic mail is the intellectual property of the sender. Plagiarism is plagiarism whether using electronic sources or print sources. You should never publicly post or forward an email message, without the permission of the author.

Students are expected to check their Springside email frequently. Important information is communicated through email and students must check their email at least once each day when school is in session.

An additional AUP governs the laptop program and must be signed before students receive the laptop.

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SOCIAL NETWORKS Social Networks, such as Facebook and MySpace, play an increasing role in the lives of students.

These sites can bring students together and serve as an important tool for social and academic discussion. Students learn the power of connection and collaboration as well as creative expression on these sites, all of which are skills they will need as they enter the larger world. In addition, as the online world becomes further integrated with our everyday interactions, students need to understand how to communicate effectively and present themselves thoughtfully. Their social development in an on-line world is an important experience as they grow to become 21st century citizens.

Possession, use, or sale of drugs is illegal and never acceptable on school property, at school functions, or on school trips. Possession, use, or sale of alcohol to persons under 21 is illegal. These things are never acceptable on school property, at school functions, or on school trips. Serious disciplinary consequences will accrue if students bring drugs or alcohol onto school grounds (includes Springside’s buildings, playing fields, parking lots, and the Wissahickon natural area adjacent to Springside). Students may not bring drugs or alcohol to the adjacent paths, streets, sidewalks, or the Wissahickon Ice Skating Club property. Students must not leave campus to use, obtain, or distribute drugs or alcohol during the school day; sell, share, or distribute drugs or alcohol to another person on school property; or arrive at a school-sponsored event under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Reports of student use of alcohol or drugs off school grounds are considered serious and will be discussed with the student and her parents or guardian.

Even as these sites have great potential to build community, we recognize that students do not always use them appropriately. While the school does not directly monitor these sites, interactions that are brought to the attention of the school and/or disrupt the daily life of students may result in disciplinary consequences. The school expects students to behave respectfully and to adhere to the spirit of the AUP in all on-line communication.

Penalties for ignoring any of the above are serious.

The school must cooperate with law enforcement agencies in these matters.

ALCOHOL AND DRUGS In the face of increasing social pressures on our young people to engage in underage drinking and the abuse of drugs, the administrations of Springside School and Chestnut Hill Academy affirm the following principles: Chestnut Hill Academy and Springside School are devoted to the personal and academic growth of every student. For that reason, both schools are opposed to underage drinking and to the abuse or illegal use of any drugs. Stated very simply, education and drugs (including alcohol) do not mix.

The schools will work with families and students to provide the best information possible and to respond positively when students or their families seek help with a drug problem. In general, students and their families can expect the schools to: • • • • • • •

Provide accurate information relating to student health and the effects of drugs, including alcohol.

Make school policies, including consequences, clear and understandable to students.

Teach decision-making and refusal skills.

Give teachers information related to drugs and alcohol and skills related to dealing with drug and alcohol problems.

Communicate pertinent information about drugs and alcohol to parents.

Share concerns and observations about student behavior with students and parents.

Offer opportunities to students to get help with drug- or alcohol-related problems.

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If a teacher or staff member suspects that a student is under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs during the school day, the teacher will address the situation in a timely and expedient manner. Any student who is suspected of being under the influence of illegal drugs or alcohol will be sent immediately to the Dean of Students. The dean, head of Upper School and/or health-care professional will address the situation with the student and the student’s parents.

ATTENDANCE Regular and full attendance at school is essential for academic progress. In addition, the presence of older girls on campus provides younger students with role models. Upper School students help set the tone for the whole campus, and their leadership affects the well-being of the entire community.

Consequently, their presence is needed and expected at Springside School. School begins promptly at 8:00 AM and students should plan to arrive by 7:50 AM in order to arrive at their first commitment on time. On Thursdays, school begins at 8:20 AM and students should plan to arrive by 8:10 AM. The daily record of attendance published each morning is called the Sideline. It also lists the menu for the day, athletic contests, early dismissals, field trips, daily activities, and upcoming events.

ABSENCES Springside works in partnership with parents to help ensure the safety and welfare of each student.

Due to issues of accountability, Springside must know by 8:00 AM if a student is going to be in its care for the day.

excused absences. Here are our expectations when these absences occur:

If a student is absent, a parent or guardian must notify the Upper School Front Desk before 8:00 AM. Failure to do so will result in the following consequences: The first time a student’s absence is not called in before 8:00 AM, she will receive a written (email) warning from the Dean of Students and the parent/guardian will be notified. The next time the student is not called in before 8:00 AM, the student will serve a behavioral sanction. When a student’s absence is not called in three times, the student’s parent/guardian will be required to speak with the Dean of Students to discuss a plan of action detailing what corrective actions need to be taken.

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Parents should call the school each consecutive day of an absence unless prior arrangements have been made with the Head of Upper School.

Parents must let the school know if a student is going to be absent for the entire day or if she will be in by a certain time. Due to liability reasons, the school cannot accept the response that a student “might be in.”

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The school is willing to:

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Make available to the student all worksheets, handouts, etc., in advance of the absence, if possible.

Administer tests or make-up tests for those missed during the absence.

Teachers are not obligated to re-teach materials covered during a student absence. The school reserves the right to bill for time spent by teachers in preparing tests or other work for students who miss work because of family choices.

It is the responsibility of the student to: •

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ANTICIPATED ABSENCES Chestnut Hill Academy and Springside School expect students to be in school when school is in session. The school calendar balances work time and vacation time for everyone. We ask that parents not take students out of school at times other than scheduled vacation dates. Missing school days requires making up work, catching up on class discussions, and taking assessments. In addition, students miss much that can never be made up because they lose out on contributing to discussions and hearing insights from their peers and teachers alike. In short, missing school often requires much more than simply making up work.

Let the school know as far in advance as possible of an absence.

Fill out the proper form and get the required signatures from her teachers. She must turn in this form at least a day in advance of the absence.

See each teacher to get materials to use during the absence and to set up a schedule for making up missed work.

Get caught up and fulfill obligations in a timely fashion upon return from the absence.

Any questions should be directed to the student’s advisor and the Head of Upper School.

Whenever a student plans to be absent for a day or longer, no matter the reason, she must bring a note from a parent or guardian to the Front Desk. She will then get a form that must be signed by all her teachers and her advisor. When all her teachers have signed it, the student turns in the form to the Dean of Students. Failure to follow this policy will result in disciplinary action.

Students who miss more than five days of school because of illness must bring a doctor’s note upon return to confirm that the student is ready to resume a rigorous schedule.

Students are excused from school for illness, medical appointments, family emergencies, funerals, college visits, tournaments and similar athletic contests, music competitions, science fairs, art juries, language contests, and other academically related events. On occasion, the school excuses students to attend events or participate in performances closely related to their academic or college goals. Such absences can be approved by the Head of Upper School only. If a student is absent for more than 15% of contact time in any course, the school may refuse to grant credit in that course.

Students who miss school without a parent or guardian’s permission are considered truant.

Truancy will result in disciplinary consequences.

Upper School students must attend the following: Opening Assembly, Blue and Gold Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service, Yearbook Dedication, Final Class Meeting, Song Night, Final Assembly, and Commencement.

LATENESS TO CLASS Students should arrive to class on time. Coming late to class is a sign of disrespect and a disruption to the teacher and students in the classroom. When a student is late to class, she should, by 2:50 PM that day, get a note that excuses her lateness to the teacher for whose class she is late. If a teacher or

Some families choose to take their daughters out of school for reasons other than those listed above.

While the school honors the family’s need to make such decisions, these absences are not regarded as 21

other staff member asks a student to stay after class or a meeting, it is the student’s responsibility to inform that teacher or staff member that she has another class and cannot stay. A student is not excused for lateness because she had a test during the previous period.

leave school early. If a student will be leaving during a class, she must give the note to her teacher before class begins. All students must sign out in the “Sign-Out Book” when they leave the campus.

Classes end at 2:50 PM, after which teachers are available for extra help or questions. Students are strongly encouraged to make good use of this time.

Teachers may require that students remain until 3:30 PM to make up late or missed work.

LATENESS TO SCHOOL A student’s first academic obligation of the day is advisory, assembly, or homeroom, which begins promptly at 8:00 AM Springside is responsible for knowing where students are at all times during school hours.

LONG-TERM ILLNESS Springside School wishes to support students who are seriously ill, in concert with the student’s family and physician or therapist. The information below is meant to help everyone determine the best course of action for each student who suffers a long-term illness.

The school values the importance of beginning the school day promptly. With the exception of late arrivals caused by inclement weather, busing, and/or public transportation, the school does not distinguish between “excused” and “unexcused” lateness. Students will be permitted five late arrivals to school per quarter, and any late arrivals beyond that will result in disciplinary consequences. The parents of students who are habitually late will be asked to meet with the dean.

Students arriving after 11:00 AM may not participate in afternoon or evening co-curricular activities, athletic games, or practices that day. Any exceptions will be made by the Head of Upper School.

I. Students who are in a recovery process from chronic and debilitating illness may remain as students in good standing at Springside School, provided that they meet the following guidelines: 1. Students must see a physician and/or therapist, as appropriate. They must see this person on a regular basis, take prescribed medication faithfully, and cooperate with the physician/therapist’s recommendations.

2. Students and their families must allow the physician or therapist to be in contact with the school so that the family, school, and health professionals can work together.

Special arrangements cannot be made without this communication.

3. Students need to behave in a “studently” manner while at school. This includes arriving on time, refraining from disruptive conduct, and making a recognizable effort to participate in class activities (e.g., taking notes, working in small groups, participating in labs, etc.).

4. Students must attend school on a regular basis. When a student misses 15% or more of her class, she may or may not receive credit for her courses.

5. Assignments and curricula are not altered to meet the perceived needs of any one individual. Students must attend the same classes and complete the same assignments as other students in the class, unless prior arrangements have been made.

Late notes should be signed by a parent or legal guardian and should contain the date, time, reason for lateness, and a daytime contact number.

LEAVING CAMPUS WITHOUT PERMISSION Springside is not an open campus and students are required to stay on campus during the school day.

Off-campus privileges may be granted only to seniors for the entire year and to juniors for a portion of the year. This is an earned privilege, based on an individual’s conduct and academic performance. A student MUST have written parental permission to exercise these privileges.

Students who leave campus without permission are putting themselves and the school in jeopardy.

These students will be subjected to disciplinary action. The school must know where students are at all times since the school is responsible for students during school hours.

LEAVING SCHOOL EARLY A student who needs to leave school during school hours must bring a note from her parent or guardian. This note should include the specific reason why the student needs to leave school, what time the student must leave, the time the student is expected to return, and a daytime contact number.

The note must be delivered to the Front Desk by 8:20 AM in order to include the student’s name in the attendance report. The receptionist will then give the student a note giving her permission to

II. In return, the school is willing to make various accommodations to meet student needs. These may include reducing the student’s course load, arranging for extensions on papers and projects, occasionally exempting students from minor tasks, permitting students to leave school early, reducing co-curricular demands, and 22

assisting parents in finding tutors. Further individual arrangements can be considered if medical conditions so indicate. Decisions will be made by the Head of Upper School in conjunction with the school Educational Psychologist or nurses and the student’s advisor.

students are responsible for checking the announcements on the plasma screen at the coordinate entrance for current information.

If Springside closes early for weather or any other emergency, a staff member will remain on duty until all children have been collected.

1. Parents of Upper School students should listen to the radio or check the school website for information about school closing. They may also call the school to hear the taped message.

2. Upper School students are able to handle early dismissal with a minimum of assistance from adults. However, when it is possible to anticipate that there might be an early dismissal, a student and her parents should agree on arrangements before the student leaves for school.

3. When an early dismissal has been announced, students may use their cell phones or a school phone. Students may not miss class to use the telephones unless specific permission is given.

4. Students who ride a bus will be told when and where to wait for their buses.

5. All Upper School students must sign out at the front office before leaving, indicating their plans for getting home.

III. Students who follow this policy are in good standing. The financial aid of a student in good standing is not jeopardized because of health concerns.

MISSING A CLASS All students are expected to attend every academic obligation during the day, including study halls, assemblies, advising, homeroom, and athletic practices/games. Any obligation missed will result in a disciplinary detention minimally, unless a legitimate reason for missing the obligation is provided and is accepted by the Head of Upper School or the Dean of Students. Students who establish a pattern of missing obligations will appear in front of the Discipline Committee.

SCHOOL CLOSINGS Announcements of school closings begin at 6:00 AM on local radio stations and on our website, www.springside.org. Listen for the school number, 136. Delayed openings will also be announced in this way. Please be assured that every effort is made to assess the weather conditions and make the correct call, but information is often sketchy about road conditions and transportation in the many areas in which Springside students reside. When we err, it is likely to be on the side of staying open, since this decision usually accommodates the majority of our families.

SENIOR PRIVILEGES Seniors are allowed to leave campus when they do not have classes. They must have written parental permission to exercise these privileges. Students have to sign out and give a specific destination and the time they plan to return to campus. Once they return to campus, they must sign back in. Students may only sign themselves in and out. Late students do not have privileges that day.

JUNIOR PRIVILEGES During the month of May, juniors in good academic and behavioral standing are allowed to go off campus one time each day during one nonclass period. Students must have written parental permission to exercise these privileges. Students have to sign out and give a specific destination and the time they plan to return to campus. Once they return to campus, they must sign back in. Students must sign themselves in and out. Late students do not have privileges that day. Students may not use junior privileges to leave school early; if they leave campus during the last period of the day, they must sign back in before 2:50 PM.

If Springside does not close and parents do not wish to bring their child to school, Springside will respect their decision. Just as with any other absence, parents should contact the school. If Springside is in session and parents feel they must pick up their daughters due to deteriorating road conditions, they may do so. They must call the school to give their daughters permission to leave.

Students must check out at the Upper School Office before leaving. No student may leave unless she signs out and has parental permission before she leaves. Students are not allowed to use their cell phones to call parents to ask for permission to leave school unless specific instructions to do so are issued by the Head of Upper School.

SIGNING IN/OUT Students who arrive at school after 8:00 AM must sign in at the Front Desk before they attend any classes. Students whose first class (after they arrive) is at Chestnut Hill Academy must sign in at Springside before going to class at CHA. Except for juniors and seniors with off-campus privileges,

Sometimes local public schools close early and Springside chooses to remain open. Those districts will send school buses to Springside to pick up students before the scheduled pick-up times.

Although Springside will make every effort possible to contact students regarding early bus departures, 23

DANCES Students attending a dance must be ageappropriate, i.e., Middle School students only should attend Middle School dances and Upper School students only should attend Upper School dances. College students and those students not enrolled in school are not permitted to attend regular school dances. Student attire must be neat, clean, and modest. Chaperones will determine if a student meets the dress requirements of the dance and students must cooperate with the chaperone’s decision. Students are permitted to bring one guest to a school-sponsored dance. Students who wish to bring a guest from a school other than CHA or Springside must purchase a ticket in advance and must complete and return a guest permission form prior to the start of the dance. Guest forms can be found in the Upper School office.

students must remain on school grounds until the end of the school day. Whenever a student leaves campus, she must sign out in the “Sign-Out Book,” indicating her time of departure and her destination. Upon her return, she must record the time of her return before going to class or any other activity. Students may sign in and out only for themselves. Students may go to Chestnut Hill Academy at any time of day without signing in or out. Students who fail to sign in or sign out are subject to disciplinary consequences.

CELL PHONES/ELECTRONIC DEVICES Students may not use cell phones during the school day, 8:00 AM to 2:50 PM. Cell phones may not be taken out for any reason during the school day and will be confiscated if seen. Students should ask for permission to use office phones when they need to make phone calls. Students must turn off their cell phones and keep them in their backpacks, purses, lockers, etc., during the school day. Visible cell phones will be confiscated whether or not they are being used. The first two times the cell phone or other electronic device is confiscated, the student must pick it up from the Dean of Students no earlier than 2:50 that day. Each time the device is confiscated after the second infraction, the student’s parent/guardian must come to school to retrieve the item. Cell phones may be used on campus before and after school.

Students may not use tobacco, alcohol, or drugs at a dance, nor may they bring these substances to a dance. Students who disregard this rule will be held at the dance until a parent or guardian collects the student. Because dances are school events, serious disciplinary action will be taken upon return to school. Students must stow all bags, jackets, etc. in a secure place as requested by a chaperone.

Music choices are expected to show respect for all people, and DJs must play “radio editions” of songs with objectionable lyrics. Chaperones may make decisions about the appropriateness of particular dances and music, and students must cooperate with these decisions.

Parents are strongly encouraged to contact the school if they need to get a message to their children. Since students are not allowed to check messages on their cell phones during the school day, the fastest way to get a message to students is by calling 215-247-7200. Messages will be posted on the student’s locker or, in case of an emergency, delivered directly to the student.

Upper School students are required to arrive no later than half an hour after the start of the dance and must stay until the designated cut-off time; however, once a student has left a dance, regardless of the reason, that student will not be readmitted. Students who have left a dance are expected to leave the premises immediately.

Failure to cooperate with the rules of the dance and the decisions of the chaperones will be reported to the student’s home school.

CONDUCT AT OTHER SCHOOLS Students in the Upper School have some of their academic classes at Chestnut Hill Academy. For girls going between schools, all of Springside’s rules apply. When at Chestnut Hill Academy, students must abide by its rules and regulations.

Students should conduct themselves responsibly when at any other campus and should follow the rules of that campus. Misconduct at another school is viewed as seriously as misconduct at Springside.

PROM The junior/senior prom is held coordinately with Chestnut Hill Academy. Juniors and seniors are mailed invitations and may invite students from other classes or from outside school. The prom committee, which consists of representatives from the junior and senior classes at Springside and Chestnut Hill Academy, meets regularly to select the location of the prom and attend to other details of the event, including music, entertainment, themes, decorations, food, photography, and favors. All decisions must be approved by the deans at Springside and Chestnut Hill Academy.

The prom location may be either on or off campus,

Ninth and tenth grade students are not allowed at Chestnut Hill Academy unless they are going to a class at the CHA campus. They should arrive no earlier than 10 minutes before class begins and must leave immediately after the class ends.

Chestnut Hill Academy students are not allowed in the Springside academic building after 3:30 PM. 24

UNIFORM The school uniform items, except for the pants, are available in the School Store; the shirts, sweaters, and blue or khaki skorts are also available from Campus Outfitters (Springside’s School code is SP1432):

but no hotels are permitted. If the prom is held off campus, students are not allowed to drive themselves to the event. Transportation to and from the event will be provided by the schools. Students must arrive on the provided transportation in order to be admitted to the event. School rules concerning personal conduct, alcohol, drugs, and tobacco apply. A student who violates these rules will have the following actions taken: a parent will be notified and the student will be detained until a parent can collect the student; the student will face a disciplinary hearing when she returns to school; and the student may be barred from attending endof-year school activities.

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DRESS CODE AND UNIFORM Springside’s mission is to “develop in girls the power to think and the confidence to act.” The uniform aids in this mission by allowing students to focus on their intellectual pursuits with as little distraction as possible. In addition, Springside seeks to create an environment in which students learn to “honor their differences and seek common ground so that students may live productively and justly in the worlds they inhabit.” The uniform helps to eliminate superficial differences so that students grow to appreciate the benefits of the diversity around them.

Navy, khaki, or Springside plaid skort Navy, white, or yellow long- and short-sleeve polo shirts with logo Navy cotton crew-neck and V-neck sweaters with logo Navy cardigan and v-neck cardigan logo Navy crew-neck uniform sweatshirt with logo Navy hooded uniform sweatshirt Navy fleece zip jacket with logo Springside blue and yellow striped rugby shirt Solid-colored white or navy undershirts may be worn beneath the polo shirt

Pants are available in navy or khaki in any of the following styles from Lands’ End (Springside’s preferred school number is 9000-6142-5):

DRESS CODE STANDARDS Because Springside is a Pre-K–12 school with a coordinate program with Chestnut Hill Academy, Springside Upper School students must understand that dress that may be appropriate for their peers might not be appropriate for younger students. As a result, clothing may not be excessively tight or baggy, nor should any clothing drag on the floor.

Skirts must extend well beyond fingertip length. Only tops and bottoms that do not expose the midriff, navel, cleavage, or underwear may be worn. All clothing must be neat, clean, and free of safety pins, tape, rips, holes, or tears. Clothing and accessories must reflect Springside School’s standards of respect for others. Obscene or offensive language or symbols are not acceptable. Depictions of violence, potential violence, sexual conduct, alcohol, or drugs are also off limits. Students may wear earrings; no other facial jewelry is permitted. No hats may be worn indoors.

Athletic clothing, pajamas, flip flops with rubber straps, non-Bermuda shorts, and athletic slides are never permitted. Students may not wear strapless tops or tops with spaghetti straps. Straps must be at least two inches wide.

Students who are not in dress code will not be allowed into class until they are in dress code. Outof-uniform clothes will be confiscated and returned to the student at the end of the semester.

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• • • • • • • •

Pleated blend chinos Pleated stain-resistant chinos Plain-front blend chinos Plain-front stain-resistant chinos Elastic-waist blend chinos Stretch, flare leg, stain-resistant chinos Five-pocket corduroy flare leg pants Navy Bermuda shorts with logo

Shoes: Sneakers or other closed heel and toe shoes with no more than a two-inch heel.

Socks: Any color sock is acceptable.

Tights: Tights must be black, white, or navy.

Outerwear: Students may wear jackets and coats when they are outside or immediately going outside.

Jackets must be taken off and placed in lockers upon reentry into the building. Unless they are in a PE class at that time, students may not wear sweatpants at any time between 8:00 AM and 2:50 PM, even when walking to and from Chestnut Hill Academy.

SENIOR DRESS CODE Senior dress code is a responsibility and a privilege.

As the leaders in our community, seniors are expected to dress tastefully but not too casually.

Appropriate clothing includes dress pants, Bermuda shorts, skirts, shirts, sweaters, and dresses. Skirts must extend beyond fingertip length. Only tops and bottoms that do not expose the midriff, navel, cleavage, or underwear may be worn. Students may not wear tank tops (shells that cover the shoulder and tops with at least a three-inch-wide strap are permitted), dresses or shirts with spaghetti straps, or T-shirts with writing on them. Seniors may not wear blue, gray, or faded jeans, short shorts, or athletic pants (including but not limited to terrycloth pants,

jersey pants, stretch pants, leggings, and sweatpants).

Pants must zip or button at the top. Clothing may not be excessively tight or baggy. Shoes must have no more than a three-inch heel. Flip-flops with plastic or rubber straps and athletic slides are not to be worn as part of the senior dress code. During the month of May, juniors in good standing may earn the privilege to wear the senior dress code. Juniors who cannot handle the responsibility of senior dress code may have a more restricted dress code until the end of the year. The Dean of Students reserves the right to make changes to the dress code during the academic year.

FORMAL DRESS During special events, such as Final Assembly and Commencement, students are allowed to wear dresses and tops that are tasteful, but not too revealing. Any dress or top that is too tight, exposes the midriff, or does not cover undergarments completely may not be worn.

the Business Office. Students may not park in any other Springside parking lot, Chestnut Hill Academy lot, or at the Wissahickon Ice Skating Club. Students without junior or senior privileges are not allowed to return to their cars until the end of the school day.

Each student must have a car permission form signed by parents if she is to drive with other students. These forms are mailed to parents in the fall and must be returned to the school. Students are required to register with the Dean of Students each car that may be driven to school. A car identification tag will be issued for the vehicle and must be affixed to the rearview mirror of the car.

NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY Students and other members of the Springside School and Chestnut Hill Academy communities have a right to pursue the opportunities offered or sponsored by the schools free from unlawful discrimination. No student, administrator, faculty member, employee, or visitor may deny or interfere unlawfully with the pursuit of these opportunities on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or other legally protected basis. This prohibition applies to all activities that occur on either school’s property, while commuting between schools, or at any other location during the course of events or activities sponsored by either school.

JEANS CUTS Jeans cuts allow students to be out of the school uniform during the day. Since the purpose of the cut is to allow students to wear jeans or pants that zipper/button, students should not wear other nonuniform bottoms unless they obtain approval from the Dean of Students. All clothing worn on a jeans cut day must fit within the Springside general dress code standard.

SECURITY AND IDENTIFICATION CARDS

Harassment is a particular form of discrimination. It is the creation of a hostile environment by speech or conduct based on one of these categories. Not all unpleasant speech or conduct constitutes unlawful harassment. However, speech or conduct based on one of the classifications mentioned above which either is intended to or reasonably could be expected to create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational environment, and thereby interfere with the opportunities offered or sponsored by the schools, constitutes unlawful harassment. Harassment may be subtle and ambiguous or direct and overt. It may arise between students or between a student and a member of the administration, faculty, staff, or even a visitor to either school.

Students will be issued a photo ID card at the beginning of the school year. This card is used for identification, for purchasing food in the cafeteria, and for gaining access to buildings on campus. It is also an important component in the security plan for the Springside and CHA campuses. Therefore, students must wear their IDs in plain sight at all times. It is important that students do not lose or allow anyone else to use their ID cards. Should a student lose her ID, she must immediately inform Ms. Gehr, who will arrange to have the lost ID disabled and a new ID issued to the student.

DRIVING AND PARKING The safety of students is of the utmost concern to Springside. Thoughtless and careless use of a car is a hazard to everyone. For the welfare of fellow students and the public at large, the school will contact the parents of students observed driving recklessly. Under no circumstances is a student to drive or be driven between Chestnut Hill Academy and Springside, including driving to a final academic appointment.

Whether or not harassment exists depends on the surrounding facts and circumstances. For this reason, it is not possible to provide a complete list of conduct that constitutes unlawful harassment.

The following are examples of conduct that is prohibited by this policy whether the conduct is that of a student or an adult: •

Seniors may park in the “Laurel Lot” (also known as the “Senior Lot”) next to the upper field. Other students may park in the Springside “Blue Lot” near 26

Unwelcome and offensive jokes, remarks, or epithets based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, or disability.

•

•

•

Speech or the display of materials which is intended to be demeaning or degrading or reasonably could be considered as demeaning or degrading of an individual or group based on one of the above-mentioned characteristics.

Persistent and unwelcome requests for a physical or personal relationship, including unwelcome and persistent requests for a dating relationship.

Unwelcome physical contact including, but not limited to, patting, hugging, or kissing which is either persistent or intentional.

A minimum of three faculty members and three students is required in order for the Discipline Committee to meet. The committee can proceed with its work even if there is an imbalance between the number of students and faculty. All proceedings of the meeting are confidential, and decisions are by majority vote. Each member of the committee, including the chair, gets one vote; the Head of Upper School and Dean of Students do not vote.

When a disciplinary violation has occurred, the Dean of Students discusses the situation with the student, her parents/guardians, and her advisor. The facts, as they are currently understood, are written up by the Dean of Students and distributed to the Discipline Committee members when they arrive at the meeting. The student appearing in front of the Discipline Committee will have the opportunity to review the charges before she arrives at the hearing.

Any members of the Discipline Committee who are directly concerned with the situation under discussion are excused at that time if they have not been excused previously. During the Discipline Committee hearing, the student is asked to tell her version of events and to answer questions posed by the committee members. Her advisor is present for moral support, but the advisor does not speak until the student has appeared in front of the committee and has left the room. If other parties are involved or have direct knowledge of the incident or situation, they are asked to tell their version of events and to answer the committee’s questions. Decisions about responsibility and consequences are made by majority vote as a recommendation to the Head of Upper School and the Head of School. Once the recommendation has been decided upon, the student and her parents are informed of the outcome by the Dean of Students as soon as possible.

DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES SPRINGSIDE DISCIPLINE COMMITTEE The purpose of Springside School’s Student disciplinary system is to promote student growth and to preserve the atmosphere of learning necessary to the well-being of all students. This is accomplished by providing an educational and fair process through which alleged violations of Springside’s code of conduct are handled and where the students involved gain an understanding of the expectations placed on them as responsible members of the community.

Springside’s policies, rules, and guidelines are rooted in fundamental values: respect, responsibility, courage, and integrity. By being a part of the Springside community, students, parents, and school employees agree to uphold these values. Any student who engages in a behavior that, in the opinion of the school, goes against these values has committed a breach of contract between the school and the student. Students will be told when they are in violation of a policy and that violation will be recorded on the students’ disciplinary report. These students will be given an appropriate sanction recommended by faculty, staff, administration, or the Discipline Committee.

The Discipline Committee may recommend a variety of consequences for the violation of school rules. These recommendations include, but are not limited to, written or spoken apologies, appropriate sanctions, the denial of the student’s privileges, compensation for lost or damaged property, suspension, separation, and expulsion. These recommendations are reviewed by the Head of Upper School and the Head of School. No consequences take effect until the Head of School has approved them. As the person ultimately responsible for the welfare of the school community, the Head of School has the final authority in all discipline cases.

The Discipline Committee consists of a pool of five members of the Upper School faculty and five students. The students may include the president and vice president of the senior class, the president of Student Government, the president of the junior class, and members at large appointed from the junior or senior class by the Head of Upper School and Dean of Students. The faculty membership may change from year to year. The Dean of Students serves as chair of the committee.

The purpose of the Discipline Committee is to ascertain the facts connected with any situation involving the violation of school rules; help the student understand her responsibilities in the context of our school community; and recommend, as appropriate, consequences that both address a student’s conduct in school and uphold the values and mission of Springside School.

COORDINATE DISCIPLINE COMMITTEE If Chestnut Hill Academy students violate community rules and expectations at Springside School or Springside School students violate community rules and expectations at Chestnut Hill Academy, they will go before a Coordinate 27

Discipline Committee at their home school. The committee will consist of eight voting members: two teachers and two students from each school.

The deans will present cases and be non-voting participants in all hearings. Heads of Upper School will be a non-participating presence. Advisors will be asked to attend hearings with their advisees.

Out-of-school separations are appropriate in those circumstances when the student has violated the rules of community and the trust of its members. In these cases, the teacher will not re-teach material but will supply assignments and handouts.

Teachers will prepare tests and quizzes for the student to take when the student returns to classes.

In those cases where the teacher needs to rewrite a test or redo any required course material, the family will be billed by the school’s Business Office on a per-hour basis.

The Coordinate Discipline Committee will be used in any case involving persons from both schools or persons from one school in locations and situations at the other school. If the infraction takes place off campus and it involves students from both schools, cases will alternate between the two schools.

Suspensions of three days or more are always conducted out of school. No suspension will last for more than 15 school days. Teachers will not reteach missed work (either content or skills); the family is responsible for getting a tutor. The tutor may be the classroom teacher, but teachers are under no obligation and may refuse. Teachers serving as tutors must be paid, and the family will be billed by the school’s Business Office on a perhour basis. (This is an exception to our conflict-ofinterest rule, which prohibits a teacher from tutoring his or her own student for pay.) Tests must be taken under school supervision.

Coordinate Discipline Committee recommendations will be presented to administrators, including the Heads of School, at both schools for consultation before a decision is reached. Both Heads of School will make the final decision on all Coordinate Discipline cases. The goal of the Coordinate Discipline Committee is to ensure a more consistent handling of disciplinary processes when students at either school violate valued community rules and expectations.

DISCIPLINARY RESPONSES Many disciplinary responses involve sanctions, school separation, or school suspension. A sanction is a response that allows students to reflect on their behavior. Students will usually receive a sanction after they commit three infractions within a short period of time. Sanctions are served at a time determined by the Dean of Students. Students who are assigned four detentions in a short period of time may have to appear in front of the Discipline Committee.

There can be an exception made for seniors to the above 15 school day limit to suspensions. Seniors who might otherwise be asked to withdraw, but who have been in good standing, may be separated from the school until graduation. These students will be graded pass/fail in their courses for that semester. A pass will be treated as a C in the calculation of semester grades. Teachers will not re-teach missed work (either content or skills); the family is responsible for getting a tutor. The tutor may be the classroom teacher, but teachers are under no obligation and may refuse. Teachers serving as tutors must be paid, and the family will be billed by the school’s Business Office on a perhour basis. (This is an exception to our conflict-ofinterest rule, which prohibits a teacher from tutoring his or her own student for pay.) Tests must be taken under school supervision.

Suspensions and separations are significant responses to the violation of school rules during which students are separated from the community from one to 15 days. During a suspension or separation, students are not allowed to attend classes, athletics, and other school activities. A “separation” is a departure from school for less than three days. A “suspension” is a departure from the community for three or more days.

DISCIPLINARY RESTRICTION Students who accumulate three or more detentions in a quarter or have established a pattern of consistent difficulty in abiding by the rules may be placed on disciplinary restriction, usually lasting from 6 weeks to a semester or more. This restriction may result in a loss of privileges, loss of free time, regular meetings with the dean, and/or restriction from school functions such as dances, field trips, performances, etc. This restriction status is aimed at giving students the structure they need in order to more successfully live within the bounds of the community.

Students with an in-school separation must arrive by 8:00 AM to the Upper School Office dressed in uniform. Students must bring lunch with them, as they are not allowed to circulate in the halls while they are at school. They must leave campus promptly at 2:45 PM, and they may not return for any reason that afternoon or evening. When serving a separation in school, students may have access to their teachers and should plan to keep up with their schoolwork. Students may take tests and quizzes.

They do not receive “zeroes” for the day. During the separation, students may be asked to help with small chores around the school.

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DISCIPLINARY PROBATION Students who commit an excessive number of infractions resulting in appearances in front of the Discipline Committee or who commit infractions of a severe nature may be put on Disciplinary Probation by the Discipline Committee or Head of Upper School. Students on Disciplinary Probation lose all their free time and their privileges. They may be withdrawn from sports and activities and may be asked to remain at school while other students go on school trips. They may be barred from attending or participating in other school events. Probation may extend anywhere from six to weeks to a semester in length. A letter to the family is sent, and a copy is put in the student’s permanent file. The school will report this status to employers and colleges if asked. A family conference with the Head of Upper School and the Head of School is required soon after a student is put on Disciplinary Probation. At this conference, the student and her parent(s) or guardian review the contents of the letter about probation to make sure that everyone understands its provisions. If the requirements as outlined in the letter of probation are not satisfactorily met, the student may be asked to leave Springside School.

student 10 days to notify the colleges of this change of status. After 10 days, the school will send a final transcript, which will state that the student has left the school.

MISCELLANEOUS POLICIES ELEVATORS Students may ride in school elevators only if they have permission from the school nurses, trainer, Dean of Students, or Head of Upper School.

FIRE ALARM PROCEDURES When the fire alarm sounds, students must quietly exit the building in a single-file line. Students must walk to the rear of the building near the playing fields and line up in alphabetical order by class.

They must remain silent. Students may not enter the building until they are dismissed by the Fire Marshall. Students must remain silent when they return to the building. Halls must remain clear of backpacks and sports bags at all times.

FOOD To keep the school clean and prevent the appearance of ever eager rodents in the building, students are asked to eat food either in the Springside cafeteria or outdoors at Springside.

Students may not eat in the halls, classrooms, library, gym, or commons spaces without specific permission from a teacher or administrator (before, during, or after school). Anyone who must carry food in the halls should make sure that it is wrapped or covered and safely secured in a backpack or lunch bag. No food is allowed at Chestnut Hill Academy. Students may only bring to school drinks that are in bottles, cans, or thermoses.

Students may not “order in” food from outside establishments without specific permission from the Head of Upper School. Students are welcome to eat in the Chestnut Hill Academy Commons.

Students whose violation of school rules warrants a suspension of more than 15 school days will be expelled or required to withdraw. Other cases of a very serious nature, or the inability of a student to change her behavior over time, may also lead to the severance of membership in the school community.

In general, such cases will appear before the Discipline Committee and the committee will make this recommendation. The final decision, however, rests with the Head of School.

REPORTING TO COLLEGES Springside School expects students to answer honestly all questions put to them by colleges and employers about suspensions. In addition, the school feels obliged, for professional and ethical reasons, to represent our students truthfully when asked if students were ever suspended.

VISITORS Springside School welcomes occasional visitors, either as prospective students or as guests of current students.

Arrangements for such visitors must be made at least 24 hours in advance with either the Admissions Office or the Head of Upper School. Only girls who are in grades 8–12 are allowed as guests.

Springside School will inform a student’s colleges and employers if the student has been suspended for three days or more. If a senior is suspended for three or more days after the school has mailed in the Secondary School Report, the information will be forwarded to the colleges in a direct and factual way. Students will be encouraged to initiate this communication themselves, and the school will work with the student under such circumstances, allowing the student 10 days in which to inform the colleges before the suspension is reported by the school. Should a student be dismissed or encouraged to withdraw from Springside School during the senior year, the school will give the

Springside School does not have an open-campus policy. Students from other schools, friends of current students, and siblings who are not enrolled at Chestnut Hill Academy or Springside may not loiter around or use school property at any time.

Friends and family members who are attending after-school events are the one exception to this policy.

Visitors and guests must abide by school rules while on campus. Visitors and guests should sign in and sign out in the book outside the Upper School 29

Office. It is the responsibility of the Springside student to inform her guest of the school rules and to ensure that they are followed. In particular, Springside students should remind their guests of school policies. Guests should observe senior dress code and should behave appropriately in class. The school reserves the right to send guests home early.

• •

As members of this learning community, all students are required to abide by these polices.

Students who are unable to support this will be asked to leave the library and their library privileges will be restored only with the written request of the Dean of Students.

FUNDRAISING POLICY Student groups wishing to raise money for their organizations must submit a “fundraising proposal” form to the Dean of Students. The Student Activities Board will keep a calendar of all fundraisers and must approve the fundraiser before it is allowed to take place.

LOCKERS Students are assigned a new locker each year and must only use the locker that is assigned to them.

Lockers must be fully closed and locked at all times.

Students may not insert any device in the locker to cause the locker not to lock. Lockers must not have articles of clothing, papers, or books spilling out of them. Students must clean out the lockers by the last day of final exams. Seniors must clean out their lockers before going on senior projects.

GUM CHEWING Because gum frequently gets deposited on the furniture and rubbed into floors and carpets, gum chewing is not allowed anywhere in the school building at any time before, during, or after school.

A student who commits an infraction will be given a warning. If the behavior continues, she will serve an appropriate sanction.

INSPECTIONS The faculty and administration of Springside School reserve the right to inspect any student’s locker, cubby, desk, backpack, lunchbox, purse, tote bag, coat or outerwear, books, notebooks, computer files, email exchanges, and/or vehicle without notice and without the student present.

LOST AND F OUND Stray books and articles of clothing are deposited in a bin in the Dean of Student’s Office or in a closet near the school receptionist on the first level of the Middle School. Students should check the bin if they are missing any items. Lost electronic devices, jewelry, and other valuables are kept by the Upper School receptionist. The Lost and Found is cleaned out at the end of each quarter. All unclaimed items will be donated to a local clothing bank.

LANGUAGE Students should refrain from using language that is hurtful to others, including (though not limited to) derogatory remarks based on class, race, sexual orientation, religion, or disability; disparaging comments about personal characteristics; blanket indictments of whole groups of people; language that is foul, vulgar, disrespectful, or inappropriate in a school setting; and gossip that is intended to hurt others. The language policy is in effect at all times while students are at school and when they attending school-related trips and activities.

MEDICATION (OVER-THE-COUNTER AND PRESCRIPTION) All prescription and over-the-counter drugs (except throat lozenges) must be kept with the nurse at the infirmary. Such drugs may not, under any circumstances, be kept in book bags or lockers.

Students who require inhalers must get permission from the school nurse to carry them. Any exception to the policy must be approved by the school nurse in advance.

MESSAGES Only messages of dire emergency will be handdelivered to students. Important messages, including those regarding transportation, will be posted on student lockers.

LIBRARY POLICY The Springside School Library is a place where all members of the school community may come, in class or individually, for research, silent study, or reading. To maintain an environment that is respectful and conducive to this work, the following rules apply in the library: •

•

Students should focus on schoolwork when they are in the library. No personal displays of affection are allowed in the library.

School computers are for educational purposes.

No games or shopping on school computers is allowed.

MONEY AND VALUABLES Springside strongly discourages students from bringing money and other valuables to school.

Students who must carry these items should keep them in their lockers. Lockers should be locked at all times. All valuables should be labeled with the student’s name.

The library is for quiet study; therefore, socializing is not allowed. Students should use the commons, instructional room or empty classrooms for group study.

Only bottled water is allowed in the library. No other food or beverage is allowed, opened or unopened.

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NOISE Because our classrooms are in use from early in the morning until well after 3:30 PM, students need to be relatively quiet in the halls. Running, wrestling, and other boisterous behavior have no place inside the school building. Students are not allowed to sit on floors in halls or congregate around lockers during the school day, beginning at 7:45 AM.

student permission to sign their own form. All regular school rules and regulations apply while on a school trip. Violation of school or trip rules will result in disciplinary action. Students may be sent home at their parents’ expense.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT See “Non-Discrimination Policy”.

SLEEPING Beds are available in the infirmary for ill students.

Students must not use common spaces, floors, benches, or chairs to sleep, nap, or lie down.

POSTING FLIERS Students must obtain permission from their coaches or club/board advisors before posting any fliers.

Such postings should be limited to bulletin boards with tacks or staples. Fliers should not be taped to the walls or windows.

SMOKING Students may not possess, buy, sell, exchange, or use tobacco products at any time while at Springside, Chestnut Hill Academy, on the adjacent fields, sidewalks, and properties, nor while walking between the schools. The same rules apply at school functions and on school trips. Students should note that state law prohibits the sale of tobacco to people under the age of 18 and that fines can be levied on students who smoke at school.

PUBLIC DISPLAYS OF AFFECTION Given the public nature of school, students are expected to show discretion in the manner in which they display their affection. Prolonged or excessive displays are not permitted. A student who commits an infraction will be given a warning. If the behavior continues, she will serve an appropriate sanction.

THEFT Theft goes against one of the major tenets of the code of conduct. Students who are caught taking another person’s property without permission will be subject to immediate disciplinary action. To prevent theft, students are encouraged to lock their lockers, secure and label all personal belongings, including books, clothing, and calculators, and refrain from bringing money and valuables to school.

RECYCLING Students should place all paper, plastic, and aluminum products in the recycle bins located in classrooms, in hallways and in the cafeteria.

Recyclable items should never be placed in trashcans and trash must never be placed in recycle bins.

RESPECT Members of the Springside community are expected to behave thoughtfully and be respectful of one another. Any behavior that shows lack of respect will not be tolerated. Students are expected to comply with requests from faculty, staff, and administrators regarding school rules. If a staff member asks a student to comply with the rules, she must comply with the rules. Students who have questions about rules or their enforcement should see the Dean of Students or Head of Upper School after compliance.

THREATENING ANOTHER PERSON Violence or threats of violence or harm, as well as any form of intimidation, are strictly prohibited at Springside and will result in Discipline Committee action. Respect for people, their property, and their opinions is expected at all school-sponsored and school-related events.

VANDALISM Students are expected to respect the property of others. Intentionally damaging or defacing school property or the property of others is a serious offense of the code of conduct.

SCHOOL TRIPS All students participating in a school-sponsored trip must have a trip permission form signed by the student and a parent. Verbal or written agreements will not be accepted. Parents may not give their

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INDEX A

Dress Code/Uniform..........26

N

Absences ........................... 22

Driving/Parking..................27

Non-Discrimination Policy.27

Academic Honesty ............ 19

Drop/Add Option ..............10

NetClassroom.......................8

Academic Restriction ........ 14

E

O

Acceptable Use Policy ...... 19

Elections.............................18

Opening Assembly...............4

Accommodations…………11

Exams.................................11

P

Alcohol/Drugs ................... 21

Extended Time ...................11

Pass/Fail................................9

Assessment .......................... 6

F

Plagiarism.......................... 19

Athletic Guidelines ........... 15

Failed Courses ...................12

Promotion ......................... 13

Attendance ........................ 21

Final Assembly.....................4

Publications....................... 17

B

G

R Rebmann Fund ................. 17

Blue and Gold Day/Homecoming............... 4

Grade Reports and Comments .............................. 8

Boards................................ 16

Graduation Requirements ...6

C

H

Religious Holidays ............ 12

Calculator Policy ............... 12

History of Springside ...........4

S

Cell Phones/Electronics..... 25

Holidays.............................12

School Closings................. 24

Changing Levels in a Course ............................... 10

Homework Policy..............12

School Colors, Mascot, Motto and Song ..............................4

Changing to a Parallel Section of a Course ........................ 11

I

Registration/Academic Regulations...........................9

Incomplete Grades ............13

Security/ID cards …………27

Class Officers..................... 18

Independent Study...............9

Senior Extensions .............. 13

Clubs/Organizations.......... 17

J

Senior Privileges................ 24

Code of Conduct ................. 3

Junior Privileges.................24

Signing In/Out ................... 25

College Counseling ........... 14

L

Social Networks ................ 21

Late Work ..........................13

Song Night ...........................5

Lateness to Class................22

Student Feedback.................8

Lateness to School .............23

Study Hall ......................... 14

Leaving Campus without Permission .........................23

Study Outside of SS..............9

Leaving School Early .........23

Team Captains .................. 16

Commencement .................. 4 Community Compact .......... 3 Community Service ........... 18 Conduct at Other Schools. 25 Coordinate Program ............ 5 Course Sectioning ............... 9 Cum Laude Society ............. 7

D Dances/Prom ..................... 25 Departmental Distinction.... 7 Disciplinary Procedures .... 28 Diversity Statement ............. 2

T

Library................................31

Test Calendar .................... 14

Long-Term Illness ..............23

Traditions .............................4

M

U

Miscellaneous Policies ......30 Missing a Class ..................24 Mission Statement ...............2 32

Uniform……………………26

Y Yearbook Dedication ...........5

MORNING MEETING SCHEDULE: Mondays: Assembly

Tuesdays: Advising

Wednesdays: Homeroom

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Thursdays: Assembly

Fridays: Advising