Office of NMH Summer Session
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2015 NMH SUMMER SESSION HANDBOOK
Table of Contents Introduction Daily Schedule Hours of Operation 1 1 1 1 1
Academic Standards ATM / Cashier Bookstore Campus Safety Clothing
2 2 2
College Fair and College Visits Community Standards Computers and E-mail
3 3 3 3
Course Changes Cross-Cultural Communication Dining Hall Dormitory Procedures
4 4 4 4 4 4
Excuse from Classes and Other Commitments Furnishings and Equipment Provided by NMH Summer Session To be provided by the student Items not permitted at NMH Health Services
5 5 5 5 5 5 5
ID Card Insurance Keys Laundry Library Mail Medications/Prescription Drugs
6 6 6
Off-Campus Procedures General Procedures Process for Weekend Overnights
7 7 7
Overnight Accommodations Reports and Grades School Meetings
8 8 9 9 9 9 9
School Rules Violations Dormitory Rules and Policies Facilities Use Fire Safety Additional Regulations Bicycling
10 Cars 10 Classroom Behavior 10 Hitchhiking 10 Skateboarding and Rollerblading 10 Smoking and Tobacco 10 Swimming 10 Shipping Items to NMH 10 Spending Money 11 11 11 11 11
Storage Student Activities Study Period Switchboard Telephones – Cellular Phones and Handheld Communication Devices
12 In Alumni Hall 12 In all other public spaces 12 Transportation to NMH Summer Session 13 13 13 13
Valuables Visitors Work Program Worship Services
14 Appendix: Hazing
Introduction
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his handbook is intended to provide students and parents with basic information about Northfield Mount Hermon Summer Session. In this document, you should find the answers to most of your questions about where, how, and when things happen, as well as get a general sense of the philosophy of NMH Summer Session. We urge parents and students to read this handbook carefully. The information in these pages will help you prepare for your summer here at Northfield Mount Hermon. The more you know about the way NMH Summer Session functions and our expectations, the more likely your experience will be a positive and successful one. We hope that everyone who participates will find the academic experience demanding and stimulating, and the social experience broadening and enjoyable. This handbook should be helpful to you in achieving these goals and making your experience here as rewarding as possible. Welcome to NMH Summer Session 2015!
Gregory T. Leeds Director
Daily Schedule Monday through Friday 7:15 AM – 8:15 AM 8:30 AM – 11:30 AM 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM
Breakfast Classes Lunch Middle School sports (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday) College Prep minor courses or afternoon session of major courses
3:30 PM – 5:00 PM 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM 5:15 PM – 6:30 PM 6:30 PM – 7:45 PM
Middle School minor courses (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday) College Prep sports (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday) Dinner Extracurricular activities, open time
11:30 AM – 7:45 PM
Open time on Wednesdays
(Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday)
Middle School Evening Schedule 7:45 – 9:30 PM Study period 10:00 PM Dormitory closing 10:30 PM Students in their rooms, lights out
College Prep Evening Schedule 8:00 – 10:00 PM Study period 10:30 PM Dormitory closing 11:00 PM Students in their rooms 11:30 PM Lights out
Saturday 7:15 AM – 8:15 AM 8:30 AM – 11:30 AM 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM 1:00 PM – 5:15 PM 5:15 PM – 6:30 PM 6:30 PM – 11:00 PM 11:30 PM 12:00 MIDNIGHT
Breakfast Classes Lunch Open time Dinner Extracurricular activities, open time Dormitory closing Students in their rooms, lights out
Sunday 8:00 AM – 8:30 AM 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM
Breakfast Brunch Dinner
Middle School Evening Schedule 7:45 – 9:30 PM Study period 10:00 PM Dormitory closing Dorm meeting 10:30 PM Students in their rooms, lights out
College Prep Evening Schedule 8:00 – 10:00 PM Study period 10:30 PM Dormitory closing Dorm meeting 11:00 PM Students in their rooms 11:30 PM Lights out
(NOTE: All students are placed in dormitories, minor courses, and sports based on their age/grade: students who will be entering grades 10-12 in the 2014-15 school year with College Prep Program, and students entering grades 7-9 with Middle School Program (except entering 9th graders who are already 15 years old, who will be with College Prep). Study period hours are determined by each student's dormitory placement.)
NMH Summer Session
HOURS OF OPERATION 2015 LIBRARY:
SUMMER SESSION OFFICE: Monday through Friday
8:00 AM to 11:00 AM 11:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM to 12:00 NOON
Monday through Friday
8:00 AM to 5:00 PM 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM
(Closed for lunch Wednesdays, 12:00 to 12.30 PM)
DINING HALL: Monday through Saturday Breakfast Lunch Dinner Sunday Breakfast (continental) Brunch Dinner
Lobby open
closed 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM
SNACK BAR: 7:15 AM to 8:15 AM 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM
MAILROOM: Monday through Friday Window open
Saturday Sunday
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday
9:30 AM to 1:45 PM
Wednesday
9:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Saturday
1:00 PM to 11:00 PM
CASHIER’S OFFICE: Monday through Friday 7:00 AM to 11:30 AM 12:00 NOON to 3:30 PM 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM
O'CONNOR HEALTH CENTER: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday
8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Wednesday, Saturday
8:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Nurse and physician on call at all other times (contact duty dean)
7:00 AM to 11:30 AM 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Closed July 4th
GYMNASIUM: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 6:30 PM to 7:45 PM Wednesday 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM Saturday, Sunday 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM SWIMMING POOL: Wednesday Saturday, Sunday
1:30 PM to 3:00 PM 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM
BLAKE STUDENT CENTER:
BOOKSTORE: Saturday, June 28
9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Monday through Friday
7:00 AM to 7:45 PM
Sunday, June 29
11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Saturday
7:00 AM to 11:30 PM
Monday through Friday
9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Sunday
Saturday Closed July 4th
10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
11:00 AM to 6:30 PM
Academic Standards The primary purpose of NMH Summer Session is to provide an environment that is academically stimulating and enriching. Classes are small, teachers are experienced and well qualified, and there is ample opportunity for teachers and students to get to know each other well. Students need to bring with them a willingness to work seriously and to contribute freely in the classroom and in regular daily preparation. NMH Summer Session expects that English as a Second Language and Middle School Program students will need to spend their full evening study period in daily preparation. College Prep Program students are expected to spend up to three hours each day in preparation—two hours during formal study time and an additional hour during midday breaks or unassigned evening hours.
ATM / Cashier Students with ATM cards can access spending money by using the Bank of America automated teller machine (ATM) in the Blake Student Center, or parents can deposit money with NMH for the student's personal spending account. If a student has a Bank of America debit or ATM card, there are no fees for withdrawals at a Bank of America ATM. For cards other than Bank of America, there is a fee per transaction, and the student’s bank may also charge a fee. Those wishing to set up a Bank of America account must contact Bank of America (www.bankofamerica.com). NMH spending accounts should be set up ahead of time when paying the tuition bill by including an extra amount designated for the student’s spending account. The advantage of establishing an ATM account is that the on-campus ATM is available at any time, and students can also access ATM funds while on off-campus trips. The NMH cashier’s office cannot process ATM deposits and withdrawals, and students can only access their NMH spending account during certain hours (see Hours of Operation 2014). Funds deposited with NMH cannot be accessed through an ATM. Students cannot make withdrawals from their NMH spending account on the weekends, so they must plan ahead. Students should not keep large amounts of cash on their person or in their room.
Bookstore Textbooks, school supplies, clothing, snacks, etc. are available at the NMH Bookstore located in the Blake Student Center.
Campus Safety Well-trained, uniformed campus safety officers are on duty, keeping school residents and facilities secure at all times. There is a dormitory lock system, and exterior doors are locked throughout the day and night, requiring those entering to have a proper key card that is individually programmed to permit them entrance into specific buildings. Safety officers and the health center staff are equipped and trained to deal with medical emergencies, and all dorm heads and dorm staff members are trained in first aid and CPR. Safety officers also respond to any other type of emergency and coordinate with local fire and police departments as necessary.
Clothing Clothes must be presentable, non-revealing, properly fitted, and in good repair. While evenings are often cool, days can become quite hot. Although NMH Summer Session does not provide a clothing list, students usually wear t-shirts and jeans or shorts. For off-campus trips to the theatre or worship services, students are expected to dress appropriately. ! Ripped, torn, or tattered clothes and clothing with offensive messages or that advertises alcohol or other drugs may not be worn at any time. ! Appropriate footwear must be worn in all buildings. Closed-toe shoes are required in science and art classes for safety. Soccer cleats and shinguards are required for students playing soccer. ! Cleavage, backside, midriff, and undergarments must be covered. These requirements are made in the interest of health and safety as well as for respect for the many cultural and religious perspectives represented in our community.
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College Fair and College Visits Our annual College Fair brings representatives of more than 100 colleges and universities to the NMH campus. This fair gives students a chance to talk with admission officers and collect information on a wide range of colleges. We also provide the opportunity for students to visit colleges in New England. A few times during the summer, college trips are arranged based on student interest and reasonable proximity to the NMH campus. These visits do not include individual interviews, but are simply tours of the facilities and a chance to ask questions.
Community Standards As part of the enduring tradition of NMH, the behavior of everyone within the community must be considerate and respectful of the rights of all others, including those living and working at NMH. In particular, students’ actions and behavior must at all times reflect the pride we have in ourselves and in the school. Public language and behavior must be suitable for people of all ages and backgrounds. The use of profanity, obscene language, or racial/sexual epithets is unacceptable. Whether on campus or off campus, all members of the Summer Session community are expected to demonstrate respect, civility, and honesty. Each member of the school community is responsible for helping ensure that established standards of conduct are honored and must observe the following standards of behavior: !
Classrooms will be places where ideas can be freely exchanged. At all times, students are expected to conduct themselves in a respectful and considerate manner. Teachers will establish specific guidelines for appropriate behavior in their classrooms.
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In the dormitories, students are expected to respect the rights and needs of others and to treat with consideration the buildings, the furnishings, and the belongings of others. Students should never enter the room of another student, an intern, or a dorm head without permission. Dorm heads will establish specific guidelines for appropriate behavior in the dorms.
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At all times, the library must be a place that is conducive to quiet study and leisurely reading. All patrons of the library are expected to be quiet, to respect others working in the library, and to treat responsibly the library building and all library materials and furnishings.
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All members of the Summer Session community are expected, through their language and their behavior, to act civilly in the student center and to respect the rights of others to enjoy and work in that facility.
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In the dining halls, all students must conduct themselves in a civil and respectful manner, clothing must be appropriate, cutting into lines is unacceptable, and the use of profanity is not acceptable. Everyone is responsible for taking his/her used dishes to the dishroom, the tables must be left clean for the next guest, and students should only take what they will eat—food should not be wasted.
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During school meetings, members of the Summer Session community must be respectful of guests, speakers, and one another.
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On the playing fields, good sportsmanship is expected at all times. Lively, enthusiastic competition is encouraged, but students must always be supportive of their peers and demonstrate the highest level of fair play and respect for all competitors, officials, and coaches. Coaches will set a tone and a standard of behavior for students that fully comply with the above expectations.
Computers and E-mail Each Summer Session student will have an e-mail account on NMH’s computer system. Students' Summer Session and personal e-mail accounts may be accessed from computers in the NMH library and computer labs. Students are strongly encouraged to bring their own personal computer (ideally a laptop or tablet), as all courses regularly assign work that requires use of a computer. All College Prep math courses except Geometry use online textbooks that require a computer to access via the internet. There are computers available in the library, computer lab, and other public spaces. However, access to these is somewhat restricted to certain hours and availability, so students will likely find it easier to complete their work on their own schedule if they have their own computer. If a student brings a computer, it can be connected to the campus network and the internet through either wired or wireless connections available in each dormitory room and classroom. Internet access is not allowed from 11:00 PM to 6:00 AM. Students must bring or purchase their own network cable if they wish to connect in this manner. Wireless service is provided in student dormitory rooms and elsewhere on campus. Student use of the school's network resources is intended to enhance education and communication. Any activity that constitutes a violation of a school rule under normal circumstances will also be considered a school rule violation when the activity involves the use of a computer. Students are prohibited from viewing or retrieving materials from the Internet or elsewhere that are classified as pornographic or otherwise inappropriate.
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Course Changes It is possible to change a major course or minor course during the first day of the Summer Session. Only the Director or Associate Director may authorize such a change. There will be no changes made after the second meeting of a course.
Cross-Cultural Communication Intercultural communication is important in a setting like NMH, where there is significant diversity. Faculty, staff, and students are expected to demonstrate some level of intercultural competence and awareness. Following are tips designed to help members of the NMH community as we work together in honoring our diversity: "
Be self-responsible and self-challenging. Take active steps to learn about cultures other than your own—for example, by going to programs on campus and reading books about various cultures. Ask questions and express concerns.
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Have the courage to confront inappropriate behavior. When comments are made about an individual or another group, confront such behavior or comments in a respectful way—otherwise, what's been done appears acceptable.
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Do not assume that a person of a certain group can speak for that entire group.
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Learn cultural cues for different cultures. Greeting behavior, slang, use of space, eye contact, touching, and gestures vary widely among cultures.
Dining Hall Alumni Hall serves the entire Northfield Mount Hermon community as the central dining facility. Proper behavior is expected at all times in the dining hall. Food should be eaten in the dining halls (not carried out), and students should take only what they will eat, to avoid waste. Vegetarian, vegan , and gluten-free offerings are available each meal, and the variety of offerings is quite extensive.
Dormitory Procedures The dormitory is a place for relaxation, study, and sleep. To provide this for everyone, each student must show respect and courtesy for others and recognize their need for privacy and quiet. Within this context, several guidelines have been established. (See also School Rules, Dormitory Rules and Policies, pages 8-10.) !
The hours 7:45 PM to 9:30 PM for Middle School Program students and 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM for College Prep students are designated as study periods. Study period hours are determined by the dormitory in which students live, which is based on each student's age/grade: students, including ESL students, entering grades 7-9 are housed in Middle School dormitories (except those who are already 15 years old, who are in College Prep dorms); and students, including ESL students, entering grades 10-12 are housed in College Prep dormitories. All students must be in their rooms with doors open or at the library at the beginning of the evening study period, and students may not leave their dorms without permission during the study period. Although students are not required to be in their dorms prior to that time, during the preceding hour a study atmosphere should be maintained in the dorms.
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All students must be in their assigned dormitories at dorm closing, which for Middle School Program dorms is 10:00 PM and for College Prep dorms is 10:30 PM (every night except Saturday). See Daily Schedule for times when students must be in their rooms and when their lights must be turned off.
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It is important that students lock the door when leaving their room. Each student is responsible for the cleaning of his/her room and for the care of his/her belongings and of school property. Regular room inspections are held.
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Massachusetts law requires that fire drills be held. These takes place soon after the beginning of the Summer Session. Procedures for fire drills are posted on dorm bulletin boards and are explained by the dorm heads. Sprinkler systems and fire extinguishers must not be tampered with by students. Fire doors must not be propped open.
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Musical instruments may not be played in the dorm rooms or corridors during study hours or at other times if they become a disturbance. Music rooms in the Rhodes Arts Center are available for those wishing to practice musical instruments.
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Excuse From Classes and Other Commitments Attendance is required at all classes, sports, and work assignments. Students should not request to be excused except in cases of illness and, in such cases, may be excused only by the school physician or nurses. Students who miss an excessive number of classes are liable for dismissal.
Furnishings and Equipment Provided by NMH Summer Session: Pillow, blanket, sheets, pillowcases, bath towels, bed, desk, desk chair, bureau. To be provided by the student: "
For dorm room – desk lamp, wastebasket, fan, alarm clock, network cable (if bringing a computer). These can be purchased at the NMH Bookstore or in local stores; there is a shopping trip on the opening weekend so that students can purchase any items they do not bring with them.
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Athletic equipment – optional: tennis shoes with smooth, non-marking soles, tennis racquet and balls, softball glove. No special clothing is required for students taking dance. Required: cleats and shin guards for students playing soccer.
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Students enrolled in writing courses should bring a dictionary.
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Students enrolled in Algebra II and Precalculus are required to have a Texas Instruments TI-nSpire CAS graphing calculator.
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Bicycles – There is plenty of space for riding, and there are some great trails in the woods on campus for those interested in mountain biking. Students must wear a helmet whenever they ride their bike, skateboard, or scooter. (Students can bring their own bicycle, and details are included in the student enrollment packet for those wishing to rent a bicycle from NMH.)
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Personal Possessions – Students need to be aware that NMH Summer Session cannot be responsible for personal possessions that are misplaced, lost, or stolen. Valuables—plane tickets, passports, etc.—should be given to the Summer Session Office for safekeeping, and money should be deposited to be withdrawn when needed (see ATM/Cashier, page 1).
Items NOT permitted at NMH: Air conditioners
Cloth wall, curtain, or ceiling hangings
Matches, lighters, fireworks
Dry floral arrangements or evergreens
Electric blankets
Foam padding, including foam mattress pads
Televisions
Coffee- or tea-makers, hot plates, popcorn poppers, toaster ovens, irons, etc.
Candles, incense burners
High-intensity lamps (especially halogen), strings of decorative lights
Pets of any kind
Large furniture; upholstered, stuffed, or beanbag chairs; wicker furniture
Knives, including Swiss Army
Plastic, straw, shag, or rubber-backed rugs
Health Services Summer Session nurses are on duty during posted hours (see Hours of Operation 2014) and on call at all other times; 24-hour emergency care is provided at the local hospital. The school physician sees students every weekday at the health center and after hours when necessary. If a student becomes ill at hours other than the outpatient hours, his/her advisor and dorm head should be notified. Inpatient services are provided by the nursing staff as required. Each student must submit complete medical information, including medical history questionnaire and immunization records, prior to arrival at NMH.
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ID Card Each student is issued an NMH Summer Session photo ID card. Students are required to show this card when signing up for Student Activities trips, withdrawing funds if they have an NMH personal spending account, using reserve materials in the library, and printing and photocopying materials. (See also Keys below.) Lending or borrowing an ID card is considered deceitful behavior and makes the student liable for disciplinary action. The replacement fee for a lost or damaged ID card is $40.
Insurance NMH’s insurance policy does not cover students' possessions while they are here. Many homeowners’ policies do cover such possessions against loss or theft. The school recommends that parents check their policies to be sure they have the needed coverage.
Keys Students are issued room keys at the beginning of the Summer Session. The security system on dormitory exterior doors also requires students to use their ID card to enter dorms, so students must keep their ID card and room key with them at all times. Lost keys or keys not turned in at the end of the session cost $10 to replace. Students who lose their keys must contact their dorm head.
Laundry Towels, sheets, and pillowcases are provided and are exchanged weekly. Weekly personal laundry service also is included in the tuition. Certain items cannot be processed by the commercial service, and students will have access to laundry machines in the dormitories for any supplemental needs.
Library The philosophy of the NMH library is to provide students and faculty with needed resources and facilities for study and research. The resources and staff are for the use of all members of the community in serving that purpose. Lending procedures: general circulation books may be checked out for a three-week period; reference books and magazines must be used in the library. All books must be returned by the last day of classes; books not returned are charged to the borrower.
Mail Mail—US postal, Federal Express, DHL, etc.—is delivered to NMH Summer Session on Monday through Friday. There are no deliveries on Saturday or Sunday by any of these services. The address while at NMH is: Student's Name Name of Dorm * NMH Summer Session One Lamplighter Way Mount Hermon, Massachusetts 01354-9638 * Students are notified of dorm assignments upon arrival on Registration Day (June 28) and should notify family and friends of their address at that time. Dorm assignment information is not available before students arrive.
Medications / Prescription Drugs Parents must inform NMH Health Services about any medications taken by students. Prescription medications from home— including those that fall under the category of psychotropic: anti-anxiety, anti-depressants, stimulants for ADD or ADHD, and some sleep aids—must be shipped or hand-delivered by parent/guardian to NMH Health Services. Medications may not be given to the student to bring with him/her if not accompanied by a parent/guardian and may not be mailed to the student. Allergy medications and a schedule for dispensing them must be given to the health center. Antibiotics, allergy and cold preparations, and nutritional supplements are dispensed as needed. All medications are held at the Health Center and dispensed to students daily. Students may not keep any prescription medications in their rooms.
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Off-Campus Procedures GENERAL PROCEDURES The area around the NMH campus has varied terrain and country roads appropriate for walking and cycling. About 10 miles away is the town of Greenfield (population 20,000) where students can go by public transportation on Wednesday or Saturday afternoons to shop or see a movie. The general practice of NMH Summer Session is to allow students, in their free time and after notifying their dorm head, to leave campus under the following conditions: # # # #
to go bicycling (helmet required), hiking, or walking in the area; to go on Summer Session-sponsored trips by bus or van to malls, museums, colleges, etc.; to ride in a car driven by an NMH staff member to ride in a car driven by parents of other Summer Session students when specific permission is granted
Except for the above-listed conditions, permission must be granted by a student's dorm head if the student wishes to leave campus in the company of friends or family. Students’ dorm heads must know with whom students are leaving the campus and their expected time of return. Permission is granted to leave campus only if a student is in good academic and disciplinary standing, he/she will not miss any Summer Session commitments, and written parental consent has been given. Parents must sign and return the general permission form (emailed in the enrollment packet) in order for students to participate in supervised Summer Session trips. If this form is not signed, a student will not be allowed to leave the campus under any circumstances. In order for students to participate in any of the activities listed on the Off-Campus Permission form under “Special Permissions,” parents must also sign in the space provided under each activity for which they are giving permission. When a student leaves campus, he/she must sign out in the dorm sign-out book. Each student makes his/her own entry and supplies the necessary information requested. Specific times must be indicated. Students must sign in when they return and include the time of their return. Students who leave campus must be back in their dormitory by 7:30 PM on Sunday through Friday or by 11:30 PM on Saturday.
PROCESS FOR WEEKEND OVERNIGHTS NMH Summer Session is an academic program based on 29 class days, and Saturday morning classes are an important element of our schedule. To make the program function effectively, students may not make weekend plans that conflict with their class obligations. With parental permission, a student may spend Saturday night at home. With written parental permission and a written invitation from his/her host, a student may spend Saturday night at the home of a friend. 1. Students wishing to take a weekend overnight must complete their arrangements by the Thursday before their weekend away. The first step is for the student to come to the Summer Session office to request that the weekend permission form be faxed or emailed to his/her parent—the form must be sent by the Summer Session office. 2. Parental permission for granting weekends must be given in writing on the form and must specify date, destination, and means of travel. Parents must complete and sign the weekend permission form and return it by fax or email to the Summer Session office. Permission by phone call or emailed/faxed note is not allowed—we require the signed form. The deadline for the return of the completed form is 4:00 PM on the Thursday prior to the weekend. 3. In order to take a weekend away from school, but not at his/her own home or with his/her family, a student must also have a written invitation from his/her adult host. Faxes and emails are acceptable for invitations and must be sent to the Summer Session office. Students with overnight weekend permission may leave campus after class (11:30 AM) on Saturday and must return by 7:30 PM on Sunday.
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Overnight Accommodations Families looking to find overnight accommodations in this area may find the following helpful. Parents must contact the individual businesses directly to inquire about rates or to make reservations. (The Summer Session Office cannot make reservations.) This is not an all-inclusive list, nor is it intended as an endorsement of the establishments. Please note that NMH Summer Session does not provide transportation to/from area accommodations. For a comprehensive and updated list of options, refer to the NMH website: www.nmhschool.org/area-accommodations Following are a few local options: Bernardston – 1-2 miles The Inn at Crumpin Fox, 71 Northfield Road, Route 10 (413-648-9131) www.crumpinfoxinn.com Windmill Motel, Route 10 (413-648-9152) Northfield – 5 miles Centennial House Bed & Breakfast, 94 Main Street (413-498-5921) www.thecentennialhouse.com Greenfield – 10 miles Brandt House Bed & Breakfast, 29 Highland Drive (413-774-3329, 800-235-3329) www.brandthouse.com Hampton Inn & Suites, 184 Shelburne Road (413-773-0057) www.hamptoninn.com Old Tavern Farm, 817 Colrain Road (413-772-0474) www.oldtavernfarm.com Days Inn, 21 Colrain Road (413-774-5578) www.daysinn.com Hartford, CT – 60 miles Sheraton Bradley at Bradley International Airport (860-627-5311, 800-325-3535) www.starwoodhotels.com
Reports and Grades Major course reports are written at midterm only for students receiving a grade of C or below, or for any students who are newly enrolling at NMH in the fall. Final reports for major and minor courses are written for all students and are sent to parents after the completion of the Summer Session. Evaluations are made in the form of a detailed comment, analyzing the specific strengths and weaknesses of each student's work, and all students receive a final grade for major and minor courses. Major courses are graded on a scale in which the grades A through D- are passing and F is failing. Grades for minor courses are Outstanding, Very Good, Satisfactory, Needs Improvement, and Unsatisfactory. Upon written request of parents, transcripts are sent to a student’s school. Since the final decision on whether to award credit rests with a student's school, students/parents should make arrangements with the school for the granting of credit before the start of the Summer Session.
School Meetings Attendance is required at these meetings, which are held once a week. These meetings provide an opportunity for the whole school to be together. Programs include announcements, speakers, performances, etc.
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School Rules Every student in the NMH Summer Session is expected to participate positively in all aspects of the program and to establish and adhere to high standards of conduct and personal behavior. A spirit of cooperation, respect, and consideration for others is imperative if all students are to derive maximum benefit from their summer experience. NMH Summer Session is confident that students will conduct themselves in a mature and responsible manner. The following types of behavior are not acceptable and make students liable to disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. VIOLATIONS ! Impinging on the well-being or violating the rights of others: for example, sexual assault or harassment; any other harassment, including but not limited to physical or verbal assault or threats based on race, religion, ethnicity, or sexual orientation—see Hazing, page 14. !
Continued unacceptable behavior: repeated violation of dormitory rules, community standards, or the additional regulations set forth in this handbook.
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Dishonesty in any form: lying, cheating, plagiarism, falsification of permission, overnight absence without permission, forgery, telephone fraud, using false identification, signing oneself or another student in/out of a work job that was not performed, deceitful behavior.
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Theft or the use or possession of stolen property.
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Destruction or abuse of personal or community property, including any forms of vandalism.
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The use or possession of any tobacco product, either on- or off-campus.
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Possessing, using, or providing any illegal drug, controlled substance, anabolic steroid, alcohol, or related paraphernalia; misusing prescription or over-the-counter medications or chemical substances; remaining in the presence of a violation of this rule; returning to campus showing evidence of having used alcohol or illegal drugs.
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Use of any open flame—including candles, incense, and matches—in any NMH building, except under faculty or staff supervision.
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Being in the room of a student of the opposite gender, having a person of the opposite gender in one's own room, or remaining in the presence of a student of the opposite gender in any area of a dormitory, except in approved areas at approved times.
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Possessing or using fireworks, firearms, or any other dangerous weapon or substance.
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Being out of the dormitory after dorm closing.
Any student who demonstrates an unwillingness to adhere to school rules or to abide by the expectations of NMH Summer Session may be dismissed without refund of tuition and fees. Departure travel for any dismissed student in the program is the responsibility of the student and his/her family. Students enrolled at NMH for the academic year are held accountable for all NMH Summer Session rules and regulations. Summer disciplinary action is shared with NMH academic-year personnel, and violations of school rules during NMH Summer Session will have consequences on the student's status in the academic-year program.
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DORMITORY RULES AND POLICIES Students learn to live with others and to appreciate their needs and differences in the dormitories. Members of the dorm staff work closely with students to ensure that the quality of dorm life reflects the high standards of the school. The dorm staff provides counseling, direction, and support for the residents. The staff also upholds and enforces the expectations and rules of the school. Facilities Use Students may not: $ have televisions or lighted signs in their rooms $ remove, without permission, any of the furniture supplied by the school $ use dorm lounge furniture in their own rooms $ place furniture in any way that will block easy passage to or from a room (easy passage is a path equal in width to the door opening) $ dismantle beds, put beds or dressers on top of other school furniture, or put mattresses directly on the floor $ keep pets of any kind at the school $ put in the toilets any object that might plug the sewer lines (paper towels, sanitary napkins, etc.) $ hang posters that have offensive or drug/alcohol-related content $ hang decorations from the walls with anything but Hold-It (available at the Bookstore) or molding hooks; all doors must be kept free of paper and decorations $ use nails, tacks, screws, glue, or tape on the walls, floors, doors, ceilings, or woodwork $ hang anything from or store anything on the sprinkler system pipes $ tamper with or install light fixtures, electrical outlets, wall switches, or any wiring $ do anything that will endanger others or damage school property Fire Safety Fire safety rules will be explained by dorm heads at the beginning of the summer. For everyone's safety, students must not: $ smoke, use an open flame, or burn incense $ put extension cords under rugs or in any place where they might be stepped on/ tripped over (extension cords should carry current to only one item and be appropriately rated for that item) $ obstruct or remove fire doors or use fire doors between rooms as passageways $ tamper with fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, or alarms Electrical appliances such as stereos, radios, lamps, fans, and computers must be UL-approved and should be kept to a minimum. Extension cords must be UL-approved, have a minimum wire size of 16/2, and be no longer than 10 feet. In lieu of extension cords, students may use UL-approved, 15-amp breaker strips having multiple outlets. Students may use hand-held hair dryers and electric curlers—rated at 1500 watts or less and thermostatically controlled—in their rooms. Hair dryers, curling irons, and electric curlers must be unplugged when not in use. Students may use electric heating pads, humidifiers, or vaporizers only with a doctor's authorization. All other appliances that produce heat are prohibited in student rooms. To minimize fire hazards, students may hang a few posters, but not exceeding 10% of the wall area. Students should distribute posters around the room because a wall covered by paper would be a fire hazard. The outside of room doors should have only the student's name and a marker board, and the room number must be visible. ADDITIONAL REGULATIONS Bicycling With an Off-Campus Permission form signed by his/her parent, a student may leave campus for excursions during daylight hours. He/she must sign out in the dormitory sign-out book and must indicate destination and planned time of return. Students may bicycle within campus boundaries until the beginning of the evening study period without additional permission. Bicycles are regulated as follows: ! All bicycles must have a white reflector on the front and a red reflector or reflecting tape visible from behind. ! All bicycles must be registered with the Summer Session office. Students complete a form giving the make and serial number of their bicycle, and the Summer Session office provides them with a registration sticker. ! Bicycle helmets must be worn whenever students ride, on campus or off campus. ! Parked and stored bicycles must be locked. ! Bicycles must be stored in designated areas outside each dormitory, not inside.
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Cars Boarding students may not bring cars onto the campus or keep cars anywhere between home and NMH Summer Session. Students may only ride in a car with a member of their family, an NMH Summer Session staff member, or a person specified in writing by their parents. To leave campus by car, students must have permission from their dorm head and must sign out in the dorm sign-out book. Day students who drive to campus must park in the designated lot, must obtain a parking permit sticker, and may not drive around campus. They may not drive boarding students without specific permission. More information about day students and driving will be provided to those students. Classroom Behavior Classroom behavior may not violate the rights of other students or hinder the learning process. If a student behaves in a way that is disruptive and detracts from the normal functioning of the class, the teacher will discuss the problem with the student. If the behavior does not improve, the student will be sent to the Director, and the result may be appropriate disciplinary action. Hitchhiking Hitchhiking is not permitted under any circumstances. Skateboarding and Rollerblading Skateboarding and rollerblading are permitted only with the following restrictions: ! Vehicles and pedestrians have the right of way. ! No skateboarding or rollerblading after sunset. ! Skateboarders should not crouch or lie down. ! No skateboarding or rollerblading in school buildings, on tennis courts, or on building steps. ! Skateboarders and rollerbladers should wear protective clothing to avoid injury—helmets are mandatory. ! Skateboarding is allowed only on campus in designated areas. Smoking and Tobacco The possession or use of any tobacco product by students is prohibited. Violations will result in disciplinary action. Swimming The indoor pool in Forslund Gym is available for student use during posted hours. Students are not permitted to swim in the Connecticut River or Shadow Lake.
Shipping Items to NMH Items may be shipped to NMH prior to the start of the Summer Session. Such items will be held at the Summer Session office, to be given to the student upon arrival. Items must be clearly marked with the student's name and NMH Summer Session's address and telephone number. All items must be shipped prepaid.
Spending Money Parents are encouraged to deposit funds for students’ spending money either in a bank account from which students can access their funds using an ATM or in a personal spending account with NMH from which students can access their funds by going to NMH’s cashier’s office in the mailroom of Blake Student Center (see ATM/Cashier, page 1). Students with ATM cards can use the ATM when they arrive on Registration Day. Because NMH’s cashier’s office will not be open that day, NMH spending accounts will not be available, so students with NMH accounts must bring enough money to pay for textbooks ($75-200). The amount of spending money depends entirely on the personal needs and habits of each student; $10-20 per week is adequate, but students obviously can spend much more. NMH spending accounts should be set up ahead of time when paying the tuition bill by including an extra amount designated for the spending account. As long as funds are in his/her account, the student can use his/her NMH ID card to make cash withdrawals. Parents can add funds to the student’s account at any time via credit card, using the link on the NMH website. However, such transfers must occur well before 3:00 PM on Fridays if a student will need access to those funds for weekend expenses. Funds deposited with NMH cannot be accessed through the ATM, and the school cashier cannot process ATM deposits and withdrawals. Students should not keep more than a few dollars on their person or in their room.
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Storage NMH academic-year students—current students and new students in the fall—who are attending NMH Summer Session may store items between the end of the school year and the beginning of the summer and/or between the end of the summer and the beginning of the fall term. They will be notified of and are responsible for transporting their belongings to/from the designated Summer Session storage location at times to be specified.
Student Activities Wednesday afternoons, Saturday afternoons and evenings, and all day Sunday until the evening study period are open times in the Summer Session schedule. These times quickly become filled with a variety of activities, both organized and spontaneous. On a typical Wednesday or Saturday afternoon, students might go shopping, play tennis, go for a bicycle ride, or join a group for a hike. Saturday evening entertainment often includes a movie and a dance. Sundays are used for extra sleep, going to church, relaxing, playing tennis, going on a student activities trip, or catching up on reading for example. NMH Summer Session regularly organizes optional activities during these open times. Examples of these include trips to shopping malls, Boston, one of New England’s largest amusement parks, and area colleges and universities; day hikes, whitewater rafting, canoe trips; and afternoon concerts at Tanglewood, summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra.
Study Period The required study period (Sunday through Friday) lasts from 7:45 PM to 9:30 PM for students in Middle School dormitories and from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM for students in College Prep dormitories—study period hours for students in English as a Second Language are determined by the dormitory in which they live, which is based on each student's age/grade. The dorm staff must be able to account for all students at the beginning of the study period. To study in another building, students must sign out in the dorm sign-out book. Students who abuse the privilege of studying in out-of-dorm locations will be required to study in their dorms. The goal of the study period is to be sure that students can study in their rooms without interruptions of visitors or phone calls and without the noise of radios, stereos, etc. All students must be in their rooms or at the library at the beginning of the evening study period and are not to leave their dormitories without permission during the study period. The following conditions prevail during the study period: ! absolute quiet ! dorm room doors must be open ! no wandering around the dorm or the campus ! listening to music only with headphones ! no watching DVDs on a computer, no playing computer games, no internet use other than that strictly related to the academic work required by the student’s major course(s) ! no socializing or visiting within the dorm or in another dorm ! no telephone calls, in or out, except in an emergency Dorm heads may, with approval of the Summer Session Director, add limitations as circumstances require.
Switchboard From outside of the NMH phone system, dial 413-498-3000 to reach NMH’s switchboard. From campus phones, dial 0.
Telephones – Cellular Phones and Handheld Communication Devices Students must provide their own cell phone or have a calling card to use the dormitory phone. (Telephone lines are not available in student rooms.) The following policies govern cell phone use, and a student who violates any of these rules may be required to give his/her phone to the Summer Session Office for a period of time. Handheld communication devices (e.g., cell phones, smart phones) are important tools for students. They provide a way for students to stay connected to their families and are essential in difficult or emergency situations. While handheld communication devices are important technological tools, they have the potential to become a public distraction. It is
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necessary for students to learn effective and responsible use of technology so that it supports their work and builds community. Without direct instruction to the contrary, students may not use their devices: • in the chapel • in classrooms • during study hall • after lights-out In Alumni Hall At no time is it appropriate for students to use their phone for answering calls or listening to voicemails in the dining hall. On Sunday through Thursday nights beginning 5:30 PM, no computer or cell phone use is permitted (this includes computers and tablets). At all other times, handheld devices may be used. However, students should be mindful of their surroundings by using discretion and respecting others who are present. In all other public spaces, including Blake Student Center and outdoors Handheld communication devices are to be used sparingly and discreetly. A brief phone conversation or check of/response to an email or text is generally acceptable. An extended conversation via voice, text, chat, email, or the like is not considered appropriate. When a more thorough conversation is necessary or a student needs to check voicemail, the student should move to a secluded area and resolve the matter quickly. Computers and tablets in public spaces may be used for academic and social purposes, when appropriate. A student will surrender his or her phone for a minimum of 24 hours when he/she violates the above stated policy or uses the device excessively or inappropriately in the judgment of an adult member of the community. Repeated violations may result in further disciplinary action. Callers phoning from overseas or from a different time zone in the United States should remember the difference in time between their location and NMH Summer Session’s. Eastern Standard Time is four hours behind Greenwich Mean Time in the summer.
Transportation to NMH Summer Session BY CAR Northfield Mount Hermon formerly had two campuses, five miles apart—one in the town of Northfield and one in the town of Gill. All academic-year and Summer Session programs take place on the Mount Hermon campus, which is in the town of Gill (the Northfield campus is no longer part of NMH). The main entrance is on Route 10, about 10 miles north of Greenfield, Massachusetts. If using a GPS unit, use the address of 1 Lamplighter Way, Mount Hermon, Massachusetts 01354. (If that address does not work, use 28 Mount Hermon Road, Gill, Massachusetts 01354.) The best road routes from several areas in the northeast are as follows. # From the Boston area, take Route 2 West to Route 63 North, then Route 10 South approximately one mile. (Campus entrance is on the left.) # From points in New Hampshire, take Route 63 South from Keene to Northfield, then Route 10 South approximately one mile. (Campus entrance on the left.) # From the New York City, New Haven, and Hartford areas, take Interstate 91 North to Massachusetts exit 28A, then Route 10 North approximately 2.5 miles. (Campus entrance on the right.) # From points in Vermont, take I-91 South to exit 28 (Bernardston, Massachusetts), then Route 10 North approximately 2.5 miles. (Campus entrance on the right.) # From Troy, New York and points west, take Route 2 East to Greenfield, Massachusetts, then I-91 North to exit 28A, then Route 10 North approximately 2.5 miles. (Campus entrance on the right.) # From Albany, New York and points west, take I-90 (the Mass Pike) east to Springfield, Massachusetts, then I-91 North to exit 28A, then Route 10 North approximately 2.5 miles. (Campus entrance on the right.)
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BY TRAIN Rail transportation is not convenient in this area and should be avoided if possible. If students travel by rail, they must change to a bus in Springfield for Greenfield. BY BUS Bus is the best method of public transportation for this area. This area is serviced by Peter Pan (east-west) and Vermont Transit/Greyhound bus lines (north-south). The local bus terminal is in Greenfield, Massachusetts. Representatives of NMH Summer Session will be in Greenfield to meet public buses on registration day. Because schedules are subject to change, parents should check with the bus lines for current schedules: Peter Pan (www.peterpanbus.com), Greyhound or Vermont Transit (www.greyhound.com). BY PLANE Bradley International Airport in Hartford, Connecticut is the closest airport. At the beginning and end of the session, NMH provides charter bus service to and from Bradley Airport. Detailed arrival and departure transportation information and forms are included in the student enrollment packet.
Valuables Because NMH Summer Session cannot be responsible for items that are misplaced, lost, or stolen, students are encouraged not to bring valuable possessions to the school. Parents are encouraged to deposit funds for spending money (see ATM/Cashier, page 1), and students should not keep more than a few dollars on their person or in their room. The Summer Session office has a safe in which students can place items such as plane tickets and passports (not cash).
Visitors Parents and friends are welcome to visit on Wednesday afternoons, Saturday afternoons, and Sundays. NMH Summer Session cannot house visitors overnight in dormitories and cannot provide transportation to/from airports or area accommodations. (See Overnight Accommodations, page 7.)
Work Program The work program is a tradition that dates back to the school's beginning. Because of NMH's belief in the valuable lessons associated with performing community-oriented work and our conviction that everyone should be treated equally, all students are assigned a job for a portion of the Summer Session (usually about seven days). The assignment can be in a classroom building, dining hall, kitchen, dormitory, at the school farm, or elsewhere. The job is essential, as the work is not duplicated by an adult and is related to the care, feeding, and maintenance of the Summer Session community. The work program creates a sense of investment in the welfare of the school and a unique community spirit. Guidance and encouragement are provided, so that, by the end of the summer, each student can be proud of his/her contribution to the well-being of all. Each student is expected to complete all work assignments as scheduled. Students are not allowed to pay another student to do work assignments or to receive payment for completing another student's work assignment. Day students, unless they live on or near campus and request a weekend assignment, are not given work jobs on Saturday or Sunday.
Worship Services All religions are respected at NMH, and students are encouraged to pursue their own spiritual practices. Local churches in the town of Northfield welcome Summer Session students to their Sunday services. Easily accessible from campus are Congregational, Catholic, and Baptist churches.
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APPENDIX: HAZING HAZING LAW The Department of Education of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts requires that all entering students receive a copy of M.G.L. Chapter 269, Sections 17–19, as amended by Chapter 665 of the Acts of 1987, an act prohibiting the practice of hazing. This law was approved by the governor of Massachusetts on January 5, 1988.The department also asks that each student acknowledge having received a copy of this law. Parents or guardians and students are therefore reminded to sign and return the memo from the dean of students indicating that they have read the rules and regulations in the school handbook. Hazing is considered by the school to be a form of harassment and is prohibited by policy. According to Mass. Gen. Laws, Chapter 269, Crimes Against Public Peace Section 17—Crime of Hazing Definition; Penalty Whoever is a principal organizer or participant in the crime of hazing, as defined herein, shall be punished by a fine of not more than three thousand dollars or by imprisonment in a house of correction for not more than one year, or by both such fine and imprisonment. The term “hazing” as used in this section and in sections eighteen and nineteen, shall mean any conduct or method of initiation into any student organization, whether on public or private property, which willfully or recklessly endangers the physical or mental health of any student or other person. Such conduct shall include whipping, beating, branding, forced calisthenics, exposure to the weather, forced consumption of any food, liquor, beverage, drug or other substance, or any other brutal treatment or forced physical activity which is likely to adversely affect the physical health or safety of any such student or other person, or which subjects such student or other person to extreme mental stress, including extended deprivation of sleep or rest or extended isolation. Notwithstanding any other provisions of this section to the contrary, consent shall not be available as a defense to any prosecution under this action. Section 18—Duty to Report Hazing Whoever knows that another person is the victim of hazing as defined in section seventeen and is at the scene of such crime shall, to the extent that such person can do so without danger or peril to himself or others, report such crime to an appropriate law enforcement official as soon as reasonably practicable. Whoever fails to report such crime shall be punished by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars. Section 19—Hazing Statutes to Be Provided; Statement of Compliance and Discipline Policy Required Each institution of secondary education and each public and private institution of post secondary education shall issue to every student group, student team or student organization which is part of such institution or is recognized by the institution or permitted by the institution to use its name or facilities or is known by the institution to exist as an unaffiliated student group, student team or student organization, a copy of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen: provided, however, that an institution’s compliance with this section’s requirements that an institution issue copies of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen to unaffiliated student groups, teams or organizations shall not constitute evidence of the institution’s recognition or endorsement of said unaffiliated student groups, teams, or organizations. Each such group, team or organization shall distribute a copy of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen to each of its members, plebes, pledges or applicants for membership. It shall be the duty of each such group, team or organization, acting through its designated officer, to deliver annually, to the institution an attested acknowledgement stating that such group, team, or organization has received a copy of this section and said sections seventeen and eighteen, that each of its members, plebes, pledges, or applicants has received a copy of sections seventeen and eighteen, and that such group, team or organization understands and agrees to comply with the provisions of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen. Each institution of secondary education and each public or private institution of post secondary education shall, at least annually, before or at the start of enrollment, deliver to each person who enrolls as a full time student in such institution a copy of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen. Each institution of secondary education and each public or private institution of post secondary education shall file, at least annually, a report with the board of higher education and in the case of secondary institutions, the board of education, certifying that such institution has complied with its responsibility to inform student groups, teams or organizations and to notify each full time student enrolled by it of the provisions of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen and also certifying that said institution has adopted a disciplinary policy with regard to the organizers and participants of hazing, and that such policy has been set forth with appropriate emphasis in the student handbook or similar means of communicating the institution’s policies to its students. The board of higher education and, in the case of secondary institutions, the board of education shall promulgate regulations governing the content and frequency of such reports, and shall forthwith report to the attorney general any such institution which fails to make such report.
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