SHS Student Handbook by Seymour High School

SEYMOUR HIGH SCHOOL 2012-2013 STUDENT-PARENT HANDBOOK

Glenn Lungarini

James Freund

Paul Lucke

Principal

Assistant Principal

Seymour High School Member New England Association of Schools and Colleges

Dear Student and Parent/Guardian: It is important that you read and review the contents of the Seymour High School student/parent handbook. It contains notices of rights that you have under the law. Please sign and return this page to indicate that you are aware of your responsibilities as outlined in the handbook. The handbook is available online by going to https://www.edline.net/pages/Seymour_High_School. I, the student, understand that this handbook is provided to best support my experiences here at Seymour High School. I acknowledge that this handbook contains the school policies and procedures that I must abide by as a student of Seymour High School and as a member in our community. I further understand that any violation of the regulations that I have read and abide by can constitute a violation of our schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s policies and procedures. I understand that should I commit any violation of our schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s policies, my privileges may be revoked, and school disciplinary action, and/or appropriate legal action may be taken. I have read and agree to abide by the school policies and procedures that our school deems appropriate and necessary to uphold the success of our students and our programs throughout the school year.

Student Name (Please Print)

______________________________ Student Signature

Date

SEYMOUR HIGH SCHOOL TELEPHONE DIRECTORY Main Office

(203) 888-2561

Main Office Fax Machine (203) 888-7115 Athletic Director Mr. Edward Rostowsky

(203) 888-7456

Director of Facilities Mr. Wayne Natzel

(203) 888-4513 ext. 1121

Cafeteria Mrs. Lisa Slotter

(203) 888-2561 ext. 1187

School Nurse Mrs. Barbara Eighmie

(203) 881-7531 ext. 1001

Guidance Office

(203) 888-2561 ext. 1199

Guidance Fax Machine

(203) 888-7476

Director of Security Mr. Richard Kearns

(203)888-2561 ext. 1003

TABLE OF CONTENTS Preamble............................................................................................... 6 Accreditation Statement...................................................................... 6 Mission Statement................................................................................ 6 Learning Expectations ........................................................................ 7 Policies .................................................................................................. 7 Academic Honesty Policy .............................................................. 7 Accommodating Students with Special Dietary Needs ............... 9 Affirmative Action Plan................................................................. 9 Alcohol/Drugs and Tobacco ........................................................ 12 Asbestos Management ................................................................. 14 Breathalyzer Testing .................................................................... 14 Bullying Policy .............................................................................. 15 Bullying Prevention Program ................................................ 15 Formal Complaints ...................................................................... 15 Cyberbullying ......................................................................... 16 Child Abuse – Reporting ............................................................. 16 Discipline Policy – Code of Conduct ........................................... 17 Category I................................................................................ 19 Category II .............................................................................. 20 Category III............................................................................. 21 Category IV ............................................................................ 21 Removal/Suspension/Expulsion ............................................. 22 Dress Code/Inappropriate Attire ................................................ 26 Electronic Devices ........................................................................ 27 Exemption from Instruction........................................................ 28 Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) ............. 28 Field Trip Policy ........................................................................... 29 Homeless Students........................................................................ 29 Homework Policy ......................................................................... 30 Individual Achievement on State Assessments .......................... 30 Internet Use Policy ....................................................................... 30 Limited English Proficient (LEP) Program ............................... 31 Medication Policy ......................................................................... 31 Migrant Students.......................................................................... 31 “No-Child-Left-Behind” Legislation .......................................... 32 On-Campus Recruitment ............................................................ 32 Pest Management/Pesticide Application .................................... 32 Pledge of Allegiance ..................................................................... 33 Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) ....................... 33 “Public School Choice” In Connecticut ..................................... 33 Search and Seizure ....................................................................... 34 Sexual Harassment Policy ........................................................... 36 Student Records; Confidentiality ............................................... 37 Suicide Policy Statement.............................................................. 38 Title IX Grievance Procedure ..................................................... 39 Transportation Complaints ......................................................... 39 Academic Information ...................................................................... 39 Academic Performance Standards for Graduation .................. 39 English ..................................................................................... 40 Mathematics ............................................................................ 40 Science ..................................................................................... 40 Social Studies .......................................................................... 40 Administrative Regulations: ....................................................... 40 Auditing Previously Taken Courses ........................................... 41

Change of Name, Address or Telephone Number ..................... 41 Changing Classes Procedures ..................................................... 41 Class Rank/Grade Point Average/Quality Point Average: ....... 41 Graduation Requirements ........................................................... 42 12th Grade Health Requirement Options ................................... 43 Honor Roll .................................................................................... 43 Honors Course Requirements ..................................................... 44 Parent Conferences ...................................................................... 44 Quality Point Average: ................................................................ 44 Textbooks ...................................................................................... 45 Transcripts.................................................................................... 45 Transferring From School........................................................... 46 Withdrawal From School ............................................................ 46 Athletics .............................................................................................. 46 Athletic Physicals: ........................................................................ 46 Athletes and Physical Education................................................. 47 Insurance for Athletes: ................................................................ 47 Attendance Policy .............................................................................. 47 Attendance Procedures ................................................................ 49 Early dismissal from school......................................................... 49 Extra Help and Make-Up Appointments ................................... 50 Homebound Instruction............................................................... 50 Lateness / Tardiness to School .................................................... 50 Loss of Credit ............................................................................... 51 Appeals .................................................................................... 52 Senior Privileges ........................................................................... 53 Summer School Policy ................................................................. 53 Tardiness to Class ........................................................................ 53 Facilities .............................................................................................. 55 Cafeteria........................................................................................ 55 Library Media Center ................................................................. 56 Study Hall ..................................................................................... 56 General Information.......................................................................... 56 Activities and Class Advisors ...................................................... 57 Buses .............................................................................................. 63 Class Dues ..................................................................................... 63 Clubs and Organizations ............................................................. 64 Student Council: ..................................................................... 64 National Honor Society .......................................................... 65 Clubs ........................................................................................ 65 Driving â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Parking Regulations .................................................... 65 Fire Drills ...................................................................................... 67 Safeguarding Personal Property ................................................. 67 School Cancellations/Delayed Opening ...................................... 68 School Motto ................................................................................. 68 School Song ................................................................................... 68 Selective Service ........................................................................... 69 Social Functions ........................................................................... 69 Student Lockers ........................................................................... 70 Visitors .......................................................................................... 70 Where To Go For Whatâ&#x20AC;Ś........................................................... 70 Student Health Program ................................................................... 71 Seymour High School Principals ................................................ 72

Preamble The material covered within this student handbook is intended as a method of communicating to students and parents regarding general district information, rules and procedures and is not intended to either enlarge or diminish any Board policy, administrative regulation or negotiated agreement. Material contained herein may therefore be superseded by such Board policy, administrative regulation or negotiated agreement. Any information contained in this handbook is subject to unilateral revision or elimination from time-to-time without notice. This booklet is written for our students and their parents. It contains required and useful information. Because it cannot be as personal a communication as we would like, we address students not directly as “you” but rather as “the student,” “students,” or “children.” Likewise, the term “the student’s parent” may refer to the parent, legal guardian, or other person who has agreed to assume responsibility for the student. Both students and parents need to be familiar with the District’s Student Code of Conduct which is intended to promote school safety and an atmosphere conducive for learning. The Student Handbook is designed to be in harmony with Board policy. Please be aware that the handbook is updated yearly, while policy adoption and revision may occur throughout the year. Students and parents are responsible to keep current of changes in policy which affect portions of this handbook. Changes will be made available to students and parents through Seymour High School’s website. Mission Statement The mission of Seymour High School is to provide opportunities for all students to reach their maximum potential academically, civically, and socially. As such, Seymour High School will ensure that all students graduate with the requisite skills to become productive citizens in the 21st century. Accreditation Statement Seymour High School is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc., a nongovernmental nationally recognized organization whose affiliated institutions include elementary schools through collegiate institutions offering post-graduate instruction. Accreditation of an institution by the New England Association indicates that it meets or exceeds criteria for the assessment of institutional quality periodically applied through a peer group review process. An accredited school or college is one which has available the necessary resources to achieve its stated purposes through appropriate educational programs, is substantially doing so, and gives reasonable evidence that it will continue to do so in the foreseeable future. Institutional integrity is also addressed through accreditation. Accreditation by the New England Association is not partial but applies to the institution as a whole. As such, it is not a guarantee of the quality of every course or program offered, or the competence of individual graduates. Rather, it provides reasonable assurance about the quality of opportunities available to students who attend the institution. Inquiries regarding the status of an institution’s accreditation by the New England Association should be directed to the administrative staff of the school or college. Individuals may also contact the association.

Learning Expectations Seymour High School expectations include learning and innovation skills • • • •

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Creativity and Innovation Communication Collaboration

Information, media and technology skills • • •

Information Literacy Media Literacy Information, Communication, and Technology Literacy [ICT].

Life & Career Skills • • • • •

Flexibility & Adaptability Initiative & Self-Direction Social & Cross Cultural Skills Productivity & Accountability Leadership & Responsibility

Additionally, 21st century themes including global awareness, financial, economic, business and civic literacy will be interwoven through a student’s experiences at Seymour High School. Policies Academic Honesty Policy While attending Seymour High School, students are expected to conduct themselves with integrity. When one cheats or aids someone in cheating, one violates a trust. The decision that a student’s action constitutes cheating will be determined by the professional judgment of each teacher. The following guidelines may assist the teacher in making this determination: I.

Academic Dishonesty is defined as follows: • • • • • • • •

Copying, faxing, or duplicating assignments that will each be turned in as an “original.” Exchanging assignments by printout, disk transfer, network, wireless or modem, and then submitting them as “originals.” Writing formulas, codes, or key words on your person or objects for use on a test when prohibited. Using hidden and/or unauthorized reference sheets during a test. Using programmed materials in electronic or battery-operated devices when prohibited. Exchanging answers with others when prohibited (either giving or receiving answers). Taking, stealing, and/or using an assignment from someone else and submitting it as your own. Giving an assignment to someone else for the purpose of submitting it as his/her own.

• • • •

II.

Submitting material (written or designed by someone else) without giving the author/artist name and/or source (e.g., plagiarizing or submitting work created by internet sources, family, friends, or tutors.) Not following additional specific guidelines for academic honesty as established by teacher or by department. Unauthorized acquisition, use, and/or distribution of a teacher’s test materials or answer sheets (Automatic 3rd offense consequences). Unauthorized use of teacher files, grade book, computer files and grading programs (Automatic 3rd offense consequences).

Students in violation of this policy will incur the following penalties:* 1st Offense Per Class: • • • • •

Automatic “0” on the assignment or test. Parental notification by the teacher to explain the specifics of the incident. If necessary, a parent conference to include the teacher, parent, student, administrator, and guidance counselor. An Academic Honesty Policy referral form is placed in the student’s disciplinary file. A copy of the Academic Honesty Policy will be mailed to the student’s parent(s).

2nd Offense Per Class: • • • •

Automatic “0” (zero) on the assignment or test and the student’s final average for that grading quarter in that subject is lowered by ten (10) points. Parental notification by the teacher to explain the specifics of the incident as well as to arrange for a parent conference to include the teacher, parent, student, administrator, and guidance counselor. An Academic Honesty Policy referral form is placed in the student’s disciplinary file. A copy of the Academic Honesty Policy will be issued to the student’s parents.

3rd And Subsequent Offense Per Class: • • • • • •

Automatic “0” (zero) on the assignment or test and the student’s final average for that grading quarter in that subject is lowered by twenty (20) points. Parental notification by the teacher to explain the specifics of the incident as well as to arrange for a parent conference to include the teacher, parent, student, administrator, and guidance counselor. Students enrolled in the Academic Honors Program forfeit the opportunity to continue in the Honors Program in the subsequent school year. The student is removed from any and all elected or appointed leadership positions in extra curricular activities including, but not limited to, student clubs, and student government, academic or athletic teams for the remainder of the school year. An Academic Honesty Policy referral form is placed in the student’s disciplinary file. The student may be referred to his/her administrator for further disciplinary action.

*Academic Honesty Policy referral form(s) remain in the student’s disciplinary file until they graduate or leave Seymour High School. If a student transfers to another class and teacher within the same subject (English II to another English II class), the offense level and penalties for that subject follow the student. Policy Accepted by Seymour Board of Education: June 18, 2001

Accommodating Students with Special Dietary Needs The Board of Education believes all students, through necessary accommodations where required, shall have the opportunity to participate fully in all school programs and activities. In some cases a studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s disability may prevent him/her from eating meals prepared for the general population. Substitutions to the regular meal will be made for students who are unable to eat school meals because of their disabilities, when that need is certified in writing by a physician. Meal service shall be provided in the most integrated setting appropriate to the needs of the disabled student. All schools are also responsible for developing and implementing guidelines for the care of food-allergic students. Such guidelines shall include, but not be limited to, staff development, strategies for identifying students at risk for life-threatening allergic reactions and means to manage the studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s allergy including avoidance measures.

Affirmative Action Plan Grievance Procedure for Discrimination On Basis Of Race, Sex Or Handicap: Any student, parent/guardian, staff member or applicant to a program who feels that he/she has been discriminated against on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex or handicap may file a grievance against the school or program, based on the provisions of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

Informal Level A. Any student, parent/guardian, staff member or applicant to a program who feels that he/she has been discriminated against on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex or handicap shall contact the designated Compliance Coordinator within 30 days of the alleged occurrence to discuss the nature of the complaint. The Compliance Coordinator shall maintain a written record which shall contain the following: 1. 2. 3. 4. B.

Full name and address of complainant. Full name position of person(s) who allegedly discriminated against the complainant. A concise statement of the facts constituting the alleged discrimination. Dates of the alleged discrimination.

At the time that the alleged discrimination complaint is filed, the Compliance Coordinator shall review and explain the grievance procedure with the complainant and answer any questions. The Compliance Coordinator shall begin investigating the complaint as soon as practical, but in no case more than (10) working days from the time the complaint was received. Within this time limit, the Compliance Coordinator shall meet informally with the complainant and individual(s) against whom the complaint was lodged, and shall provide confidential counseling where advisable and shall finally seek informal agreement between the parties concerned. Every attempt shall be made to seek a solution and resolve the alleged discrimination complaint at this level.

If the complainant is not satisfied with these initial informal procedures and within twenty (20) school days from the date of the original discussion with the Compliance Coordinator, more formal procedures may be initiated by the complainant to further explore and resolve the problem internally.

The Compliance Coordinator shall present the written alleged discrimination complaint to the Principal of the building who may resolve the complaint alone or may take the complaint to the Civil Compliance Panel.

The Principal shall inform all parties of the date, time, and place of the scheduled grievance panel hearing and of their right to present witnesses or representatives, if desired. The Compliance Coordinator shall provide assistance to the complainant in understanding the grievance panel process. A written record of all panel hearings shall be kept. The panel shall hear and fully review the case within fifteen (15) days of the hearing and shall send its recommendations in writing to the Principal within five (5) working days of the hearing. The Principal shall review the recommendations, reach a decision regarding the case, and communicate his/her decision in writing to the parties concerned and to the Superintendent of Schools within five (5) days.

If the complainant is not satisfied with the Principal’s decision, he/she may submit a written appeal to the Superintendent of Schools within ten (10) days. The Superintendent shall review all aspects of the case and within ten (10) days shall decide for or against the recommendation of the Principal.

If the complainant is not willing to abide by the Superintendent’s recommendation, he/she may submit a written appeal to the local Board of Education within fifteen (15) days of the Superintendent’s decision. With at least five (5) days notice given prior to the hearing, the Board of Education shall inform all parties involved of the date, time and place of the hearing and the right to present witness(es) and to legal counseling or other representation, if desired. The Board of Education shall hear all aspects of the appeal and shall reach a decision within twenty (20) days of receipt of the written appeal. The decision shall be presented in writing to the complainant at its next regularly scheduled meeting. The Secretary of the Board of Education shall inform the parties of the Board’s action within five (5) working days of the Board’s meeting. Any person may also file a complaint of illegal discrimination with the Office for Civil Rights, Washington, D.C. at the same time he/she files the grievance during or after use of the grievance process, or without using the grievance process at all. If a complaint is filed with the Office for Civil Rights, it must be filed in writing no later than 180 days after the occurrence of the possible discrimination.

Inquiries concerning the application of non-discriminatory policy to the practices and policies of the Seymour School System may be addressed to:

Mrs. Nancy Snopkowski Associate Superintendent of Schools Seymour Board of Education 98 Bank Street Seymour, CT 06483

CIVIL RIGHTS COMPLIANCE PANEL High School Assistant Principal Three (3) Classroom Teachers (selected by staff) Students (President of Student Council, plus two (2) Members chosen from the group)

Boston Office Office of Civil Rights US Department of Education 8th Floor 5 Post Office Square Boston, MA 02109-3921 Telephone: 617-289-0111 Fax: 617-289-0150; TDD: 877-521-2172 Email: OCR.Boston@ed.gov Filing complaints electronically: http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/complaintintro.html

The Seymour Board of Education is an Equal Opportunity Employer Age of Majority In view of Public Act 127 of the 1972 Legislature which establishes 18 years of age majority, the following policies are adopted: 1.

2. 3.

The school system recognizes its moral responsibility to the parent regardless of the age of the students in its charge. All communications concerning attendance matters, early dismissals, late admissions, field trips, etc., will be maintained with parents/guardians. Eighteen (18) year old students may request direct communication and parents shall be notified of that action. The school may continue or resume contact with parents at any time. The school recognizes the right of the eighteen (18) year old to examine all of his/her personal school records. Any student at or above the age of majority who, independent of parents or guardian, takes up residence in the Town of Seymour and enrolls in the Seymour School System shall be required by the principal of the school in which he/she enrolls to submit a Certificate of Residence certifying that he/she is indeed in residence within the Seymour School District, said Certificates to be attested to by the owner, renter or lessee of the property wherein he/she resides. Such Certificates must be completed and placed in the hands of the school principal within five (5) calendar days from the date of entrance on the student in question.

Alcohol/Drugs and Tobacco The school district prohibits the manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession or use of alcohol or controlled substances on school grounds or during school activities. Any student in violation of this will be subject to disciplinary actions as outlined in policy 5131.6. Substance abuse or distribution of drugs and/or drug paraphernalia including alcohol may indicate serious, underlying problems. Every effort will be made to offer student assistance, including early identification, referral for treatment to private or community agencies and aftercare support. Disciplinary procedures will be administered with the best interests of the student, school population and community in mind and with due consideration of the rights of students. However, consideration must be given to the fact that substance abuse is illegal and subject to criminal prosecution. Unauthorized possession, distribution, sale or consumption of dangerous drugs, narcotics or alcoholic beverages is considered grounds for expulsion. Students are encouraged to consult with teachers, administrators and other professional staff on substance abuse problems. A staff member who is contacted by a student regarding a drug or alcohol problem may elect to keep that information confidential and not disclose it to any other person in accordance with state law. However, the student will be encouraged at the earliest appropriate time to seek help from parents or guardians. In such cases, the decision to involve the parents/guardians will be arrived jointly by the student and educator unless, in the judgment of the educator, the mental or physical health of the student is immediately and dangerously threatened by drug/alcohol use. If such danger is imminent, the parents/guardians and health officials will be notified so that appropriate action can be taken. Students shall not smoke or use tobacco products on school property or at any school-related or school-sanctioned activity, on or off school property as provided by state and federal law.

A. Consequences of Alcohol/Drug Use or Possession: First Offense The student will receive a five (5) day external suspension. This suspension may be reduced by up to two (2) days by participating in certain activities (see Alternative Drug/Alcohol Use Suspension Program). Second Offense The student will receive a ten (10) day external suspension. This suspension may be reduced by up to five (5) days by participating in certain prescribed activities (see Alternative Drug/Alcohol Use Suspension Program). Third Offense The student will receive a ten (10) day external suspension which may not be reduced, and a recommendation for expulsion will be sent to the Seymour Board of Education. During the period of suspension, the student and parents/guardians will meet with the School Psychologist/School Social Worker/Guidance Counselor. At this meeting, any or all of the following or other options will be discussed. The parents/guardians will be encouraged to contact their physician for purposes of obtaining an assessment of the student’s physical and emotional status as it relates to the student’s involvement in drugs and/or alcohol. The parents/guardians will be referred to appropriate substance abuse counseling agencies. The student and parents/guardians will be asked to meet with the principal or his/her designee to review any assessment and/or recommendations resulting from steps one and two above.

B. Consequences of Distribution of Drugs and/or Drug Paraphernalia, and/or Alcohol: Since distribution is a criminal activity, the first offense will create an immediate ten (10) day external suspension. A verbal report will be made to the police of the incident. During the period of suspension, the student and parents/guardians will meet with the School Psychologist/School Social Worker/Guidance Counselor. The subject of this meeting will be as set forth in numbers 1, 2, & 3 above. A complete copy of the Alcohol, Drugs, and Tobacco Board of Education Policy (#5131.6) may be obtained from the Building Principal/Assistant Principal(s) or from the Superintendent of Schools located at 98 Bank Street, Seymour.

C. Expulsion Notwithstanding the general procedures for disciplinary actions as described above, expulsion from school pursuant to Connecticut General Statutes Sec. 10-233d (a) – (e) may occur upon the first, second, or third

violation of this policy. Board of Education Policy (# 5131.6(e)) may be obtained from the Building Principal/Assistant Principal(s) or from the Superintendent of Schools located at 98 Bank Street, Seymour.

Asbestos Management Legislation requires all school buildings to be reevaluated to determine if asbestos is present and if it poses a significant health hazard to the building’s occupants. A formal asbestos management program has been in place in the Seymour Public Schools since 1986. The purpose of the program is to identify any asbestos containing materials that may be in our schools and take steps to make sure these materials do not present an exposure hazard to the students, faculty or staff. The plans are in compliance with the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act of 1986 (AHERA). Requests to review these plans may be made in the school office of by contacting the Director of Facilities, Wayne Natzel at 888-4513 Ext 1121. [Review full Seymour Public Schools policy 3516.12] Breathalyzer Testing The following rules shall be used by the Seymour Public Schools when responding to a student’s involvement with alcohol. School rules in the critical area of alcohol use are motivated not only by respect for the law, but also by a genuine concern for the physical, psychological and emotional well being for all its students. The possession, purchase, or consumption (use) of alcoholic beverages on any Seymour Public School campus or at any other school-sponsored activity/event at any time or place is prohibited. Any student found in violation of the school’s alcohol policy will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion, regardless of the student’s previous disciplinary record. In addition, a student who violates the above policy may be required to undergo drug/alcohol counseling. Breathalyzers may be used during school time, or at any school function, on or off school grounds as requested or determined by the Principal/Assistant Principal in the manner as outlined below. Further, breathalyzers may be used at school, on school buses or at any school sponsored activity. Breathalyzers will be used at school, during the school day, only in situations where school officials have reasonable suspicion of a violation of school rules and/or Board policy on alcohol use and/or possession. In other extracurricular situations, breathalyzers may be used by either testing every student or a sample of students entering the event, or when there is reasonable suspicion to believe that a student may be under the influence of alcohol. When screening every student at an event, the alcohol tester shall operate in the “Passive Mode.” In this mode, the alcohol tester can detect alcohol in a student’s breath by the mere exhaling of a breath. If alcohol is detected, the student shall be brought to a private area and an attempt will be made to notify the student’s parent(s)/guardian. The student shall then provide an “Active” breath sample. This Active sample will be collected by attaching the mouthpiece to the alcohol tester and the student blowing into the mouthpiece. If there is reasonable suspicion that a student is under the influence while at school or at a school-sponsored event, on or off school grounds, the student will be escorted to a private area where a “passive” test may be administered. If alcohol is detected, an attempt will be made to notify the student’s parent(s)/guardian and the procedure for obtaining an active sample, as described above, will be followed. If a student refuses to abide by the provisions of this policy, an attempt will be made to notify the student’s parent(s)/guardian, the student will not be allowed to continue in class or participate in the event, as applicable, and the student will be subject to disciplinary action.

Definition of Reasonable Suspicion Reasonable suspicion shall refer to any of the following: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Observed use or possession of alcohol; Odor of an alcoholic beverage or the presence of an alcohol container; Apparent physical state of impairment of motor functions, e.g., slurred speech, unsteady gait, lack of coordination, bloodshot or glazed eyes, or other similar evidence; Marked changes in personal behavior not attributable to other factors; or Involvement in, or contribution to, an accident where the use of alcohol is reasonably suspected or student involvement in a pattern of repetitive accidents, whether or not they involve actual or potential injury.

Bullying Policy The Board of Education promotes a secure and happy school climate, conducive to teaching and learning that is free from threat, harassment and any type of bullying behavior. The Board expressly forbids any form of bullying behavior by students, teachers, administrators or other employees. The Board’s commitment to addressing bullying behavior involves an approach that includes education and promotion of a school climate in which bullying will not be tolerated by students and staff. Appropriate disciplinary action may include suspension, expulsion, and/or referral to law enforcement officials. Definition: Bullying behavior by any student in the Seymour Public Schools is strictly prohibited, and such conduct may result in disciplinary action, including suspension and/or expulsion from school. “Bullying” means any overt acts by a student or a group of students directed against another student with the intent to ridicule, harass, humiliate or intimidate the other student while on school grounds, at a school-sponsored activity, or on a school bus, which acts are committed more than once against any student during the school year. Bullying outside of the school setting may also be addressed if it has a direct and negative impact on a student’s academic performance or safety in school. Students and/or parents may file verbal or written complaints concerning suspected bullying behavior, and students shall be permitted to anonymously report acts of bullying to teachers and school administrators. Any report of suspected bullying behavior will be promptly reviewed. If acts of bullying are verified, prompt disciplinary action may be taken against the perpetrator, consistent with his/her rights of due process. Board policy and regulation #5131.911 set forth this prohibition and the related procedures in detail, and are available to students and their parents/guardians upon request Bullying Prevention Program Formal Complaints Students and/or their parents or guardians may file written reports of conduct that they consider to be bullying. Such written reports shall be reasonably specific as to the actions giving rise to the suspicion of bullying, including time and place of the conduct alleged, the number of such incidents, the target of such suspected bullying, and the names of any potential student or staff witnesses. Such reports may be filed with any teacher or administrator, and they shall be promptly forwarded to the Building Principal for review and action in accordance with Section IV of Board policy and regulation #5131.911 .

Informal/Verbal Complaints by Students Students may make informal complaint of conduct that they consider to be bullying by verbal report to a teacher or administrator or other professional employee such as a guidance counselor, school psychologist, nurse or social worker. Such informal complaints shall be reasonably specific as to the actions giving rise to the suspicion of bullying, including time and place of the conduct alleged, the number of such incidents, the target of such suspected bullying, and the names of any potential student or staff witnesses. A teacher, other professional employee, or administrator who receives an informal complaint shall promptly reduce the complaint to writing, including the information provided. Such written report by the teacher, other professional employee and/or administrator shall be promptly forwarded to the Building Principal for review and action in accordance with Section IV of Board policy and regulation #5131.911 .. Anonymous Complaints Students who make informal complaint as set forth above may request that their name be maintained in confidence by the teacher(s) and administrator(s) who receive the complaint. Should anonymity be requested, the Principal or his/her designee shall meet with the student to review the request for anonymity and the impact that maintaining anonymity of the complaint may have on the investigation of the complaint and/or possible remedial action. At such meeting, the student shall be given the choice as to whether to maintain the anonymity of the complaint. Anonymous complaints shall be reviewed and reasonable action will be taken to address the situation, to the extent such action may be taken that (1) does not disclose the source of the complaint, and (2) is consistent with the due process rights of the student(s) alleged to have committed acts of bullying. No disciplinary action shall be taken solely on the basis of an anonymous report. Cyberbullying The District’s computer network and the Internet, whether accessed on campus or off campus, during or after school hours, may not be used for the purpose of harassment. Cyberbullying includes, but is not limited to the following misuses of technology: harassing, teasing, intimidating, threatening, or terrorizing another person by sending or posting inappropriate and hurtful e-mail messages, instant messages, text messages, digital pictures or images, or Web site postings, including blogs. It is also recognized that the author (poster or sender) of the inappropriate material is often disguised (logged on) as someone else. Such behavior will result in disciplinary action. In instances where the cyberbullying originated from a non-school computer, but was brought to the attention of school officials, any disciplinary action shall be based on whether the conduct is determined to be severely disruptive of the educational process so that it markedly interrupts or severely impedes the day-to-day operations of a school. Such conduct includes but is not limited to, threats, or making a threat off school grounds, to kill or hurt a teacher or student. Students and community members, who believe they have been the victims of such misuse of technology, should not erase the offending material from the system. A copy of the material should be printed and brought to the attention of the school Principal or Director of Security. The administration shall fully investigate all reports of cyberbullying. Child Abuse – Reporting The Board of Education recognizes that a student’s mental and physical health will have an effect on the student’s ability to obtain the most benefit from attending school. In order to increase the student’s ability to learn while in school, The Board of Education realizes the importance of identifying students who may be suffering from abuse,

neglect or placed in imminent danger of serious harm. Pursuant to Connecticut General Statutes 17a-101, as amended, any certified personnel, paraprofessionals, professional school staff including guidance counselors, social workers, psychologists, licensed nurses, and coaches of intramural or interscholastic athletics, are obligated by law to first report suspected child abuse, neglect, or if a child is placed in imminent danger of serious harm to the Connecticut State Department of Children and Families Services. Specific procedures governing the reporting of abuse and neglect are in effect, and staff receives yearly training in the procedures. Reporting of child abuse and neglect is a responsibility which is taken seriously. A copy of the complete Seymour Board of Education policy concerning the Reporting of Child Abuse (Policy #5141.4) is available from any Principal/Assistant Principal or from the offices of the Seymour Board of Education, 98 Bank Street, Seymour, CT. Child abuse is defined as any physical injury inflicted by other than accidental means or injuries which are not in keeping with the explanation given for their cause. Improper treatment such as malnutrition, sexual molestation, deprivation of necessities, emotional abuse, cruel punishment or neglect is also considered child abuse. Discipline Policy – Code of Conduct The Seymour Board of Education in recognizing its moral and legal responsibilities to the total community, including parents, students and school personnel, is highly desirous of continued pride in its public schools. Recognizing that with every legal right that an individual in the public school possesses, an equal sense of responsibility must be shared by each individual for the common goal of respecting the rights of others in our schools. It is the purpose and philosophy of the Seymour Board of Education to outline necessary administrative procedures that will provide for a fair but firm approach in promoting proper conduct of pupils in the Seymour Public Schools. Removal/Suspension/Expulsion The Board of Education recognizes the necessity of fair and judicious rules and guidelines to aid in the positive conduct of students and the administration of the schools in a manner resulting in the benefit of all students. The Board authorizes its professional staff and its administrative staff to remove or suspend students whose conduct on school grounds or at a school sponsored activity is in violation of a published policy of such board or is seriously disruptive of the educational process or endangers persons or property or whose conduct off school grounds is in violation of such policy and is seriously disruptive of the educational process. In making a determination as to whether conduct is seriously disruptive of the educational process, the administration may consider, but such consideration shall not be limited to: (1) whether the incident occurred within close proximity of a school; (2) whether other students from the school were involved or whether there was any gang involvement; (3) whether the conduct involved violence, threats of violence or the unlawful use of a weapon, as defined below and whether any injuries occurred, and (4) whether the conduct involved the use of alcohol. Further, the Board may expel a pupil from school after an opportunity for a full hearing conducted under procedures covered in the law for such conduct. Definitions “EXCLUSION” means any denial of public school privileges to a pupil for disciplinary purposes. “REMOVAL” means the exclusion of a student from a classroom for all or part of a single class period but not to exceed ninety (90) minutes, not more than six times in any school year nor more than twice in one week, unless such student is referred to the building principal or designee and granted an informal hearing in accordance with C.G.S. 10-233c. “SUSPENSION” means removal from school and exclusion from school privileges or from transportation services for not more than ten (10) consecutive school days, not more than ten (10) times or a total of fifty (50) days in one school year, whichever results in fewer days of exclusion, unless such student is granted the opportunity for a formal hearing as provided by law. No such suspension shall extend beyond the end of the school year in which it is imposed. “IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION” means exclusion from regular classroom activities with the student remaining in the school building under administrative authority for no more than five (10) consecutive school days, not

more than fifteen (15) times or a total of fifty (50) days in one school year, whichever results in fewer days of exclusion. No such exclusion shall extend beyond the end of the school year in which imposed. “EXPULSION” means the exclusion of a pupil from school privileges for more than ten (10) consecutive school days by the Board of Education for a period of time not to exceed one calendar year. Such period of exclusion may extend to the school year following the school year in which exclusion was imposed. “DEADLY WEAPON” means any weapon, whether loaded or unloaded, from which a shot may be discharged, or a switchblade knife, gravity knife, billy, blackjack, bludgeon, or metal knuckles. “DANGEROUS INSTRUMENT” means any instrument, article or substance which, under the circumstances in which it is used or attempted or threatened to be used, is capable of causing death or serious physical injury. “MARTIAL ARTS WEAPON” means a nunchaku, kama, kasari-fundo, octagon sai, tonfa or Chinese star. “DETENTION” is held daily immediately after school. A student may be given 24 hour notice when he/she is assigned an office detention. The Seymour Board of Education lists the following breaches of conduct on school property, school transportation or any school-sponsored activity that may lead to disciplinary procedures including consideration of suspension, exclusion from school activities, or expulsion in accordance with applicable Connecticut statutes and regulations. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14.

15.

Deliberate refusal to obey a member of the school staff when a reasonable directive is given. Continued disruptive behavior in the classroom, corridor, lavatory and/or other parts of the school building. Threatening, intimidating and/or blackmailing other students or school staff. Striking or assaulting a student or any member of the school staff. The use of profane or obscene language or gestures to members of the school. Theft. Possessing in the school, or on school grounds, any kind of weapon, such as a pistol, knife, blackjack, etc. Unauthorized possession, selling or consumption of drugs, narcotics, or alcoholic beverages in school, on school grounds, or at school activities or school-sponsored events. Possession and open display or dissemination of indecent printed materials. Destruction or defacing of school property, school-rented facilities, and/or school-loaned material. Unauthorized leaving of school building and/or grounds. Smoking. Any conduct or dress deemed detrimental to the health, safety and welfare of the students and/or staff as determined by the Board of Education. Any other action whether on school property, school transportation, or school-sponsored activity or outside the school which is disruptive of the educational process or is in violation of a published Board policy or District regulation. Harassment of other students, staff and/or guests.

The Seymour Board of Education, also recognizing its moral and legal responsibilities to the total community, will cooperate and assist local and state law enforcing personnel in interpreting and enforcing local, state, and federal laws. In this spirit of cooperation, if it is necessary for law enforcing agents to conduct investigations and meet with students within the school environs and during the school day, parents or guardians of said students will be informed for the purpose of granting permission for conducting such sessions. In granting permission, the parent or guardian can request that an administrator be present during any student interview. Specific abrogations of the fifteen breaches of conduct listed will be dealt with in accordance with the following categorical offenses as determined by the Board of Education and Seymour schools’ administration. They include: Categories of Offenses Appropriate disciplinary actions will be taken with any student whose conduct on school grounds or at a schoolsponsored activity is in violation of a published policy of such Board or is seriously disruptive of the educational process or endangers persons or property or whose conduct off school grounds is in violation of such policy and is seriously disruptive of the educational process. Category I offenses will require referral by the administration to

the Board for consideration of expulsion. The administration has the discretion, within the guidelines provided by this policy, to determine the appropriate disciplinary action for other categories of offenses contained herein. This includes certain behaviors that may occur off school grounds. Categories of offenses include the following: 1. Category I – Mandatory Referral for Expulsion. 2. Category II – Mandatory Out-Of-School Suspension. Possible Referral for Expulsion. 3. Category III – Mandatory In-School And/or Possible Out-Of-School Suspension and Possible Referral for Expulsion. 4. Category IV – Detention/Possible In-School Suspension/Possible Out-of-School Suspension Category I Mandatory referral for expulsion. Expulsion proceedings pursuant to Connecticut General Statutes Section 10-233d(2) are required whenever there is reason to believe that any student (A) on school grounds or at a school-sponsored activity, was in possession of a firearm, as defined in 18 USC 921, or deadly weapon, dangerous instrument or martial arts weapon, (B) off school grounds, did possess such a firearm in violation of Connecticut General Statutes Section 29-35 or did possess such a firearm, instrument or weapon in the commission of a crime or (C) on or off school grounds, offered for sale or distribution a controlled substance, as defined in subdivision (9) of Connecticut General Statutes Section 21a-240, whose manufacture, distribution, sale, prescription, dispensing, transporting or possessing with intent to sell or disperse, offering, or administering is subject to criminal penalties. A student shall be expelled for one calendar year if the Board finds that the student did so possess or so possess and use, as appropriate, such a firearm, instrument or weapon or did so offer for sale or distribution such a controlled substance. The Board may modify the period of expulsion for a student on a case-by-case basis. In addition, any student who commits any of the following offenses shall be suspended from school pending referral to the Board for consideration of expulsion. The administrator will immediately notify the police of any criminal offenses in this category. Violations of this category include, but are not limited to the following: 1.

Fire - A student who willfully by means of fire causes harm to property or to any person or participates in the burning of property or any person. Incendiary devices and/or fireworks are prohibited. 2. A Student Who Strikes or Assaults A Member Of The School Staff... 3. A Student Who Threatens Serious Violence Or Continually Harasses A Staff Member Or Student… 4. A Student Who Engages In Hazing… “Hazing” means any action which recklessly or intentionally endangers the health or safety of a person for the purpose of initiation, admission into or affiliation with, or as a condition for membership, continued membership or participation in a student organization, athletic team or any other school activity. The term shall include, but shall not be limited to: (a.) Any assault upon a person; (b.) Requiring any activity which would subject the person to extreme mental stress, such as sleep deprivation or extended isolation from social contact; (c.) Requiring indecent exposure of the body; (d.) Confinement of a person; (e.) Requiring the ingestion of any substance; or (f.) Any other physical activity which would adversely affect the health or safety of an individual. The term “Hazing” shall not include an action sponsored by the Seymour School System which requires any athletic practice conditioning or completion of a curricular activity. 5. Any Conduct Which Requires Referral for expulsion under State and Federal Laws… Notwithstanding anything to the contrary above, the foregoing provisions shall not apply to a student enrolled in grade 3 and below with regard to the offenses set forth in sub-paragraphs (1) through (4), inclusive, above. A

student in kindergarten, grade 1, grade 2 or grade 3 who commits such an offense shall be treated as having committed a Category II offense and therefore treated in accordance with the provisions of Category II below; however, a kindergarten, grade 1, grade 2 or grade 3 student who commits an offense as set forth in subparagraph (5) above shall nevertheless be treated in accordance with the provisions set forth above for a Category I offense. Category II Mandatory out-of-school suspension/possible referral for expulsion. A student who commits any of the following offenses will be suspended for one to ten days by the administration. Before the student returns to class after a suspension, the opportunity for a meeting of the Principal or designee, teacher, parent and student will be provided. A student may be recommended for expulsion for violations of any Category II behaviors. The principal will immediately notify the police of any criminal offenses in this category. Violations of this category include, but are not limited to, the following: 1. 2.

3. 4. 5.

7. 8. 9. 10.

11. 12.

13.

Fighting - A student who physically fights with another person for any reason. Harassment - A student who harasses another student, staff or guest. Harassment means any unwelcome verbal, written or physical conduct based on another persons actual or perceived race, religion, creed, color, national origin, marital status, sex, sexual orientation or disability which has the effect of substantially undermining and detracting from, or interfering with, the victim’s educational performance or access to the school’s resources and activities, or creating a hostile, offensive or intimidating school environment. Such conduct includes derogatory remarks, jokes, demeaning comments or behavior, slurs, mimicking, name calling, graffiti, innuendo, gestures, physical conduct, stalking, threatening, bullying, or the display or circulation of written materials or pictures when such conduct creates a hostile, offensive or intimidating school environment or substantially undermines and detracts from, or interferes with, the victim’s educational performance or access to the school’s resources and activities. Continuous Insubordination - A student who continuously refuses reasonable directives by staff members. Profanity and/or Obscenity - A student who verbally, electronically or by written words, photographs, or drawings, directs profanity and/or obscenity to any person or insults to any person by obscene gestures. Theft/Possession of Stolen Property - A student who, without permission of the owner or custodian of the property, takes property of significant value or has in his/her possession property of significant value which does not belong to him/her. Breaking and Entering - A student who enters in a stealthy, deceptive, or forceful manner onto school property or any part thereof which is closed, including electronically accessing any computerized systems of the school. Destruction and Defacement or Defacement of Property - A student who willfully causes destruction of property of the school or others. Actions that impair the use of something are destructive. Sexual Misconduct - A student who engages in sexual misconduct at school or a school related activity. Reckless Driving - A student who recklessly operates a motor vehicle so as to endanger the safety, health and/or welfare of others on school property or damages school property. Trespass - A student who returns to school without permission while under suspension, expulsion, or removal, or who enters upon the premises of a public school other than the one to which he/she is assigned without authorization from the person in charge. Continuous Disorderly Conduct - A student who by use of violence, force, coercion, or threat of violence, disrupts or obstructs the educational process. False Fire Alarm or Bomb Report, Tampering With Fire Alarm System Or Any Other Emergency Equipment or Alarm - Unless an emergency exists, a student will not willfully sound a fire alarm or cause a fire alarm to be sounded, nor will a student falsely, communicate or cause to be communicated that a bomb is located in a building or on the premises of a building of the Seymour School District. These acts are prohibited irrespective of the whereabouts of the student. A student will not destroy, damage, or otherwise tamper with a fire alarm system in a school building. Replicas, Imitations and Facsimiles of Dangerous Weapons, Instruments and Objects - A student who possesses, handles, transmits, conceals or uses any replica, imitation or facsimile of a weapon, dangerous instrument or object, such as, but not limited to, a firearm, knife or blackjack.

14. Other Violations - A student who engages in conduct which violates any other school or classroom rules of a similar level of seriousness. 15. Threat or Intimidation - A student who threatens or intimidates another student 16. Bullying - “Bullying” means any overt acts by a student or a group of students directed against another student with the intent to ridicule, harass, humiliate or intimidate the other student while on school grounds, at a school-sponsored activity, or on a school bus, which acts are committed more than once against any student during the school year. Category III Mandatory in-school and/or possible out-of-school suspension and possible referral for expulsion. A student who commits any of the following behaviors and/or offenses may be removed and will be assigned one (1) to five (5) days of in-school suspension or one (1) to ten (10) days of out-of-school suspension and such additional exclusions, up to and including expulsion, as the administration deems warranted. The administration shall immediately notify the police of any criminal offenses in this category. Violations of this category include, but are not limited to the following: 1.

Disorderly Conduct - A student who misbehaves in a manner that causes disruption or obstruction to the educational process. 2. Insubordination - A student who openly refuses a reasonable directive by a staff member. 3. Smoking - A student who smokes or uses tobacco on school property or at any activity supervised by school personnel. 4. Defacement of Property - A student who defaces or damages property of the school or others. Actions such as writing in school textbooks or library books, writing on desks or walls, carving into woodwork, desks or tables, and spray-painting surfaces are examples of defacement. 5. Truancy - A student who is absent from school except for illness, death in the family or other extenuating circumstances approved by the school administration. 6. Leaving School Grounds/Leaves The Building Or Class Cuts - A student who cuts class or leaves school grounds during the school day without signing out in the main office. 7. Gambling - A student who engages in any game of chance or contest wherein money or other items of monetary value are awarded to the winner, except for those games and contests authorized as official school functions. 8. Cutting Detention - A student who fails to attend an assigned detention. 9. Electronic Devices - A student who uses any electronic device to record audio, record video, or to take photographs. 10. Violation of the internet use policy. 11. Use of Faculty or Staff username and/or password. 12. Other Violations - A student who engages in conduct which violates any other school or classroom rules of a similar level of seriousness. Category IV Detention/possible in-school suspension/possible out-of-school suspension A Student may be given a detention or possible in-school suspension for the following offenses: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Unruly Conduct - A student who does not comply with the directions of authorized school personnel. Inappropriate Language - A student who uses any inappropriate or discriminatory language. Tardiness Lying - A student who makes any false statements with the intent to deceive school personnel. Inappropriate Attire - Refer to the “Dress Code/Inappropriate Attire” section of this handbook. Hall Violations - A student who is in the halls during class without a pass. A student who is out-of-bounds on a pass by going somewhere not listed on the pass or by taking the long route to or from the destination.

7. 8.

Other Violations - A student who engages in conduct which violates any other school or classroom rules of similar level of seriousness. Electronic Devices - Students who wear or carry any non-medically prescribed or non-court-ordered electronic device as authorized under state statute. This includes (but is not limited to) radios, digital music players, portable gaming systems, as well as cell phones or any electronic device with the capability of recording audio, recording video, or taking photographs.

Removal/Suspension/Expulsion Procedures Governing Removal: 1. A student may be removed from class by professional school personnel entrusted with the care and supervision of students for deliberately causing a serious disruption of the educational process. 2. Professional school personnel entrusted with the care and supervision of students may use reasonable physical force only to the extent that they believe it is necessary to maintain discipline or to promote the welfare of such students. 3. A student may not be removed from class more than six times in one school year, nor more than twice in one week, unless the student is granted an informal hearing before the building principal or designee. 4. Teachers removing a student from class are to send the student to an administrator with notification explaining the reasons for removal. 5. Consistent removal from class for similar disruptions will lead to suspension from school. Procedures Governing Out-Of-School Suspension: 1. The principal shall observe the following procedures except in cases where the student has already been suspended, or such suspension will result in the student being suspended for more than ten (10) times or a total of fifty (50) days in the current school year, or except in circumstances under which the student will be prevented from completing a normal course of study. Where such exception exists the procedure to be followed shall be that described in the section under “Expulsion,” Number 5, (a-h) of this regulation. (a.)

(b.) (c.)

(d.) (e.)

(f.) (g.)

Unless an emergency situation requiring the student’s immediate removal exists, no student shall be suspended prior to having an informal hearing before the principal or the principal’s designee, at which time the student is informed as to the charges and is given an opportunity to respond. In the event of an emergency, the informal hearing shall be held as soon after the suspension as possible. By telephone, the principal or designee shall make all reasonable attempts to notify immediately the parent or guardian of the student to be suspended and state the cause(s) leading to the suspension. Whether or not telephone contact is made, the principal or designee must forward a letter to the parent or guardian to the last address reported on school records, within one (1) school day after the suspension action, offering the parent or guardian an opportunity for a conference to discuss the matter. Notice of the suspension shall be sent by the principal or designee to the Superintendent of Schools by the close of the school day following the commencement of the suspension. Following a conference with the principal or designee, (if requested by parents) the parents or guardians (or student if 18 years of age or older) may request the Superintendent of Schools or designee to review the principal’s decision. If a student is eighteen (18) years of age or older, any notice required by this regulation shall be given to the student as well as his/her parent or guardian. Textbooks and homework are to be provided each pupil for the duration of the suspension, and the student shall be allowed to complete any class work, including examinations, without penalty, within reasonable time limit, which the student missed while under suspension.

In cases where the student has already been suspended, or such suspension will result in being suspended more than ten (10) times or a total of fifty (50) days in a school year, or when a student will be prevented from completing a normal course of study, the student shall, prior to suspension, be granted a formal hearing before the Board of Education as provided below under “Expulsion” Number 5, (a-h) of this regulation.

Procedures Governing In-School Suspension: 1. School administrators may impose in-school suspension in cases where a pupil’s conduct endangers persons or property, disrupts the educational process, or violates any aspect of the school code of conduct. 2. In-school suspension may not be imposed on a student without an informal hearing by the building Principal or his/her designee. 3. The in-school suspension may not (a) exceed five (5) consecutive school days, (b) extend beyond the school year in which imposed, or (c) be imposed more than fifteen (15) times or have more than a total of fifty (50) days in one (1) school year, whichever is fewer. Procedures Governing Expulsion: 1. A Principal, the Superintendent or the Assistant Superintendent may request expulsion of a pupil in a case where there is cause to believe the pupil’s conduct endangers persons or property, is seriously disruptive of the educational process or is violating a publicized board policy or administrative regulation, or for off-campus behavior of a pupil that endangers persons or property and seriously disrupts the educational process. A Principal, the Superintendent or the Assistant Superintendent shall refer a pupil to the Board of Education for consideration of expulsion if the pupil is accused of any Category I (Mandatory Referral for Expulsion) offense as set forth above. 2. Requests for expulsion will be directed to the Board of Education through the Superintendent of Schools. 3. Upon receipt of the request, the Superintendent shall conduct an inquiry within three (3) school days of the request. 4. If after the inquiry the Superintendent or designee determines for expulsion, he/she shall forward such request to the Board of Education. 5. Except in an emergency situation requiring the student’s immediate removal, the Board shall, prior to expelling the student, offer the student an opportunity for a hearing in accordance with law. Such hearing may allow evidence of past disciplinary problems when deciding expulsion, the length of expulsion, and the alternative educational opportunity to be offered. The hearing, if requested, shall be governed by the following procedures: (a.) The student and parents or guardian, shall be given notice prior to the date of the hearing. (b.) The notice shall contain: (1.) Date, time and place and nature of the scheduled hearing. (2.) A statement of legal authority under which hearing is to be held; reference to particular sections of statute and regulations involved. (3.) The details of the grounds for the proposed expulsion and the proposed penalty. (4.) A statement of the student’s rights as listed in this regulation below in section (c) through (h). (5.) In cases where Section 6 of this policy applies, a statement that the Board is not required to offer an alternative educational opportunity. (c.) At any hearing under this policy, the student shall have the right to testify and produce witnesses and other evidence in his/her defense. The student shall have the right to demand that any witnesses against him/her appear in person to answer his/her questions. The Board may refuse to allow a witness against the suspended student to appear, when the Board believes that fear on the part of the witness would prevent the giving of accurate testimony. In such cases, a verbatim statement of the witness’s testimony must be given to the student. A witness’s unsubstantiated desire to remain anonymous is not such an exceptional circumstance as to justify dispensing with confrontation and questioning by the student. (d.) A student may be represented by any third party of his/her choice, including an attorney. (e.) A student is entitled to the services of a translator, to be provided by the Board of Education, whenever the students or his/her parent(s) or guardian(s) do(es) not speak the English language or has a disability which precludes normal modes of communication. (f.) The Board shall keep a verbatim record of the hearing, and the student or such student’s parent or guardian shall be entitled to a copy of that record at his or her own expense.

(g.)

(h.)

At a meeting of three (3) or more Board members, a student may be expelled if a majority of the Board members sitting in an expulsion hearing vote to expel, provided that no fewer than three (3) affirmative votes to expel are cast. The Board shall report its final decision either orally on the record or in writing to the student and parent(s), stating the reasons on which the decision is based, and the penalty to be imposed, if any. Said decision shall be based solely on evidence in the record on the charges noticed to the student.

(6)

Any student under sixteen who is expelled shall be offered an alternative educational opportunity during the period of expulsion provided any parent or guardian of such student who does not choose to have his/her child enrolled in an alternative program shall not be subject to the provisions of C.G.S. 10-184. Any student between the ages of sixteen and eighteen who is expelled for the first time and who wishes to continue his/her education shall be offered an alternative educational opportunity if he/she complies with conditions established by the Board, and has not been expelled because of conduct as described in Connecticut General Statutes 10-233d, subsection (e). Such alternative may include, but shall not be limited to, the placement of a student who is at least sixteen years of age in an adult education program pursuant to Connecticut General Statutes Section 10-69. Prior to conducting an expulsion hearing for students requiring special education and related services who are described in C.G.S. 10-76a, subsection (e), subdivision (1) a Planning and Placement Team shall be convened to determine whether the misconduct was caused by the student’s disability. If it is determined that the misconduct was caused by the child’s disability, the child shall not be expelled. If determined that the misconduct was not caused by the disability, such student may be expelled in accordance with the provisions of this policy not withstanding any other provision of this policy. Whenever a student requiring such special education and related services is expelled, an alternative education opportunity, consistent with the child’s educational needs, shall be provided during the period of expulsion. (7) Once the expulsion process has begun, the Board shall go forward with a hearing and make a decision even if the student withdraws from the Seymour school district during the pending expulsion process. Notice of a pending expulsion hearing, and the result thereof, shall be included in the student’s cumulative record which shall be sent to the receiving school district, if any. (8) If a pupil transfers into the Seymour school district while under a penalty of expulsion imposed by another school district, the Seymour Board of Education shall hold a hearing to consider whether to adopt the decision of the other School Board to expel the pupil. The Seymour Board of Education may adopt the decision of the other School Board if the Seymour Board of Education finds that the conduct in question merits expulsion under its own policies or administrative regulations. Until such time as the expulsion process is completed by the Seymour Board of Education, the pupil shall be excluded from regular classes. If a pupil enters the Seymour School district while another school district’s expulsion hearing is pending, the Seymour Board of Education may exclude the student from classes if an emergency exists. (9) Whenever a student is expelled, notice of the expulsion and the conduct for which the student was expelled shall be included in the student’s cumulative educational record. Such notice, except for notice of an expulsion based on possession of a firearm or deadly weapon, as defined in Connecticut General Statutes Section 53a-3, shall be expunged from the cumulative educational record by the Board if the student graduates from high school. (10) An expelled student may apply for early readmission to school. Such readmission shall be at the discretion of the board. The board may delegate authority for the readmission decision to the Superintendent. If the board delegated such authority, readmission shall be at the discretion of the Superintendent. Early readmission shall be based upon satisfaction, as determined by the Board or Superintendent, of specific criteria set forth by the Board or Superintendent. Publication of Suspension/Expulsion/Removal Regulations The Board of Education directs the Superintendent, at the beginning of each school year, to provide for an effective means of informing all students, parents, and/or guardians of the Board’s policy and administrative regulations governing suspension, expulsion and removal.

Students with Disabilities A special education student’s 504 and/or disability shall be considered before making a decision to suspend. A student with disabilities may be suspended for up to ten school days in a school year without the need for the district to provide any educational services. A disabled student may be additionally removed (suspended) for up to ten school days at a time for separate acts of misconduct as long as the removals do not constitute a pattern. During any subsequent suspension of ten days or less of a student with disabilities, the district shall provide services to the disabled student to the extent determined necessary to enable the student to appropriately advance in the general curriculum and toward achieving his/her IEP goals. In cases involving removals for ten days or less, school personnel (school administration) in consultation with the child’s special education teacher, shall make the service determination. If the disabled student’s suspensions beyond ten school days in a school year constitute a pattern because of factors such as the length of each removal, the total amount of time the child is removed and the proximity of the removals to one another, the IEP team (PPT) shall conduct a manifestation determination. Meetings of a student’s IEP team (PPT) are required to develop a behavioral assessment plan or to review and modify as necessary one previously developed when the disabled student has been removed (suspended) from his/her current placement for more than ten school days in a school year and when commencing a removal(suspension) that constitutes a change in placement. Whenever a student is suspended, notice of the suspension and the conduct for which the student was suspended shall be included on the student’s cumulative educational record. Such notice shall be expunged from the record by the Board if the student graduates from high school. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the following procedures shall apply to students who have been identified as having one or more disabilities under the IDEA and/or Section 504 or the Rehabilitation Act (a “student with disabilities”): 1.

If a student with disabilities engages in conduct that would lead to a recommendation for expulsion, the district shall promptly convene an IEP team (PPT) meeting to determine whether the misconduct was caused by the student’s disability. A student may be suspended for up to ten days pending the IEP team (PPT) determination. If the IEP team (PPT) finds that the misconduct was not caused by the disability, the Superintendent may proceed with a recommendation for expulsion. During any period of expulsion, a student with disabilities under the IDEA shall receive an alternative educational plan consistent with the student’s educational needs as determined by the IEP team (PPT) in light of such expulsion and the student’s IEP. The services must continue to the extent determined necessary to enable the disabled student to appropriately advance in the general curriculum and to advance toward achieving the goals of his/her IEP. If the IEP team (PPT) finds that the misconduct was caused by the disability, the Superintendent shall not proceed with the recommendation for expulsion. The IEP team (PPT) shall consider the student’s misconduct and revise the IEP to prevent a recurrence of such misconduct and to provide for the safety of the other students and staff. Should a parent with disabilities who is eligible for services under the IDEA (or the student himself/herself if eighteen years of age or older) file a request for a due process hearing under C.G.G. 10-76h to contest an expulsion under subparagraph (2) above or a proposed change in placement under subparagraph (3), unless the parents (or student if eighteen years of age or older) and the Board otherwise agree, the child shall stay in his/her then current placement pending decision in said due process hearing and any subsequent judicial review proceedings. This “stay put” requirement shall not apply when modified by a court order or by the decision of a hearing officer. Notwithstanding the provisions of the preceding subparagraph (4), a student with disabilities may be assigned to an interim alternative educational setting for not more than forty-five (45) days if the student brings a weapon to school or to a school function or knowingly possesses or uses illegal drugs or sells or solicits the sale of a controlled substance while at school or a school function. For

purposes of this paragraph, “weapon” means a device instrument, material, or substance, animate or inanimate, that is used for, or is readily capable of, causing death or serious bodily injury, but excludes a pocket knife with a blade of less that 2-1/2 inches in length. The interim alternative placement shall be determined by the IEP team (PPT). If hearing is requested, the student shall remain in said interim alternative placement pending a decision in the due process hearing, unless the Board and parents otherwise agree, or the Board obtains a court order. 6. In order for the district to unilaterally obtain a 45 day change in placement from a Federal Judge of Connecticut Hearing Officer, it must prove by substantial evidence that maintaining the current placement of the student is substantially likely to result in injury to the child or others. The school must also prove that it has made reasonable efforts to minimize the risk of harm the student presents in the current placement. LEGAL REFERENCE: Connecticut General Statutes 10-221 Boards To Prescribe Rules 10-233a Definitions 10-233b Removal Of Pupils From Class 10-233c Suspension Of Pupils 10-233d Expulsion Of Pupils

Dress Code/Inappropriate Attire The Board of Education encourages students to dress in clothing appropriate to the school situation. Restrictions on freedom of student dress may be applied whenever the mode of dress in question: 1. 2. 3.

Is unsafe either for the student or those around the student. Is disruptive to school operations and the education process in general. Is contrary to law.

Any school dress which impairs safety or increases the risk of injury to self or others, causes discomfort to others (e.g., cleanliness, melodiousness, inappropriate language), causes distraction or disruption of the learning environment, advertises or advocates the use of alcohol or drugs, sexual suggestiveness, or is libelous or inherently contains unreasonable potential to upset and hurt others is prohibited. Sexually provocative clothing – short shorts/skirts, see-through clothing, and garments designed or worn in such a manner as to expose parts of the body constituting what generally is considered immodesty. Articles that are part of one’s attire but also designed so that they can be used as weapons, rings that simulate brass knuckles, belt buckles with sharp edges, nailed or cleated shoes, jewelry obviously designed to inflict injury. Teachers in particular subjects may require specific grooming/apparel rules for the safety of students. For example pulling back long hair in a laboratory setting, closed shoes, wearing goggles. Students must wear proper and safe footwear. Any footwear deemed dangerous to the student or others will be prohibited. Students are expected to remove hats upon entering a classroom, when in the auditorium for a guest speaker or assembly and when speaking with adults in the hallways, office or any location in the building.

Inappropriate Attire includes any clothing worn by a student during school hours which is unclean, dangerous and or distracting, including, but not limited to, the following: (a.) Clothing that is soiled with grease, oil, paint or dirt. (b.) Clothing or articles that have indecent or inflammatory writing, pictures and/or slogans. (c.) Clothing that displays inappropriate logos or references that are related to alcohol, sex, tobacco and/or illegal substances or advertisements of any of the aforementioned. (d.) Clothing that displays racial, ethnic and/or religious slurs. (e.) Clothing that is torn, ragged, has holes and/or is see-through. (f.) Clothing or accessories that symbolize membership in a group whose aim and objectives are disruptive to the educational process. (g.) Articles of clothing and/or jewelry which can cause injury to others or damage to property. This includes items such as, but not limited to, chains, cleats, studded accessories, studded belts or wristbands, any spiked or pointed jewelry, necklace or accessory, any clothing that has any type of chain, studs or spikes attached. (h.) Shorts and mini-shirts will be allowed only if they meet the minimum specification of striking the student's leg at the end of his or her fingertips. (i.) No bare feet or shoes which are dangerous or distracting. (j.) No article of clothing that covers any part of the head or face. This includes any type of hat, bandanna and all types of head coverings except those that reflect religious tenets. (k.) No nonprescription eyewear including sunglasses. (l.) No underclothing worn as outer clothing or the exposure of any type of undergarment. (m.) No muscle body shirts, tank tops with straps less than 2 inches wide, halter or tube tops including half shirts that expose the mid-body skin. (n.) Any such clothing that such condition is distracting to the educational process. (o.) No wearing of coats or jackets or outerwear in school during school hours. (p.) No Healies or wheeled shoes. The school administration will determine what attire is unclean, dangerous and/or distracts from the educational process. Board of Education Policy #5132 – Student Dress and Grooming Electronic Devices Use of Beepers/Paging devices/Cellular telephones/Cameras/Video cameras/Digital Music or Video recorders or players/Portable video games etc. Disciplinary action may be taken against any student for using a cellular telephone or other electronic devices, such as pagers, laser pointers and attachments that is otherwise not banned by this policy, in any manner that disrupts the educational environment, including using the device to cheat, signal others, or otherwise violate student conduct rules. Unless otherwise banned under this policy, all electronic devices must be kept off and out of sight during the regular school day. Use of video cameras, telephones, or other electronic devices with the ability to record pictures, video, or audio is strictly prohibited. If a student chooses to bring an electronic device to school the school district will not be responsible for loss or theft of such an item. All electronic devices, headphones and other listening devices are to be stored in a student’s locker. Possession of electronic devices during the school day may result in a discipline referral. Electronic devices may only be used with teacher approval, in that teacher’s particular class, for educational purposes. Otherwise, electronic devices are not to be used or on a student’s

person during the school day. The consequence for such behavior will require the student to surrender the electronic device to the teacher and/or administrator for the remainder of the day.

Equal Employment Opportunity - Nondiscriminatory Policy The Seymour Board of Education recognizes its responsibility to the principles of affirmative action and equal employment opportunity and is committed to ensuring that these principles are carried out as provided by applicable law. Equal employment opportunity means showing neutrality with regard to the race, color, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, religion, age or other legally protected class of individuals as provided by applicable state and federal law in an employment decision or context. This policy statement is based on both the spirit and the letter of the state and federal anti-discrimination laws, regulation and executive orders. The superintendent will appoint a staff designee as the Equity Officer who, in cooperation with all staff members, will execute this policy. Accepted 11/20/1995 Exemption from Instruction A student will be exempted from instruction on Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), or Family Life and Sex Education upon receipt of a written request for such exemption from his/her parent or guardian. However, it is our strong recommendation that all students receive this information. Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over eighteen (18) years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. They are: 1.

The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within forty-five (45) days of the day the District receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal (or appropriate school official) a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The principal will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. The rights to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate or misleading. Parents or eligible students may ask Seymour High School to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the school principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the District decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the District will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception which permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the District as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); person serving on the School Board; a person or company with whom the District has contracted to perform a special task (such as an

attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. Upon request, the District discloses education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll. The High School will attempt to notify parents of this request. 4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the District to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is: Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, S.W. Washington, DC 20202-4605 Field Trip Policy Field trips are valuable educational activities which enhance classroom learning. The Seymour Board of Education’s discipline policies, all Board of Education policies, and all school rules and regulations shall be in effect during each trip. Students and parents should carefully consider these and the other rules, and if for any reason either party feels that the student cannot adhere to ALL of the rules – then that student should not attend. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

All students are expected to act and dress appropriately and adhere to all elements of the School’s Code of Conduct. All field trips sponsored by the school must be recommended by the advisor(s) of the particular activity and approved by the school administration. Students going on all field trips must go and return on the transportation provided. Any student who leaves and/or attends a field trip without proper approval shall be subject to suspension from school. The school reserves the right to exclude any student who has an unacceptable academic, attendance and/or conduct report.

Policy Adopted – Seymour Board of Education: February 2, 2004 A complete copy of this Seymour Board of Education Policy (#6153, a-e) can be obtained from the Building Principal/Assistant Principal(s) or the Superintendent of Schools located at 98 Bank Street, Seymour.

Homeless Students The Seymour Board of Education recognizes its obligation to identify homeless and migratory children. Homeless students, as defined by federal and state legislation (McKinney Veto Act), will have all programs, services, and transportation that other students enjoy and may continue to attend the school of origin. Students defined as “Homeless” need to refer to the Seymour Board of Education Policy (#5118.1, A-D, Forms 1-10) available from the Building Principal/Assistant Principal(s) or the Superintendent of Schools located at 98 Bank Street, Seymour. The local liaison for homeless children is the Associate Superintendent of Schools, Christine Syriac (203-888-4564).

Homework Policy Homework in the Seymour Public Schools is an essential part of the school program. The quality and quantity of the homework assignment will vary and relate to the content of classroom instruction and shall supplement its purpose and objectives.

Guidelines for the Student: Assignments should be clearly understood before leaving class. Students are required to hand in assignments on time. Students are responsible for any work missed due to absences from class. Students should realize that homework will be part of their grade. Students are to assume responsibility for obtaining the proper resources and materials. Guidelines for Parents: 1. 2. 3. 4.

Parents should be familiar with and support the philosophy and guidelines of the Board of Education concerning homework. Parents should provide the child with a time and place to carry out the homework assignments. Parents should contact the school in the event of questions or concerns. Parents should take an active part in the supervision of the student completing the assignment.

A complete copy of the Seymour Board of Education Homework policy (#6154) can be obtained from the Building Principal/Assistant Principal or the Superintendent of Schools located at 98 Bank Street, Seymour. Individual Achievement on State Assessments Individual test results for the CAPT exam and any other state assessment will be mailed home as soon as possible after receiving the results.

Internet Use Policy The Board of Education, in its efforts to increase pupilsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; awareness and understanding of computer technology within the Seymour schools, is committed to provide accessibility to the Internet for enhancement of its educational programming. The Internet offers vast, diverse, and unique resources to both students and teachers. Its availability to the pupils and professional staff will facilitate resource sharing, innovation and communication. The use of the Internet is a privilege, not a right. A user who violates this policy, shall, at a minimum, have his or her access to the computer network and Internet terminated, which the school district may refuse to reinstate for the remainder of the studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s enrollment in the school district. A user violates this policy by his/her own action or by failing to report any violations by other users that come to the attention of the user. Further, a user violates this policy if he or she permits another to use his or her account or password to access the computer network and Internet, including any user whose access has been denied or terminated. The school district may also take other disciplinary action in such circumstances.

Copies of the complete policy as adopted by the Seymour Board of Education on February 2, 2004, are available in the main office, the high school Media Center and are mailed home to students and parents each summer. Included in this mailing will be instructions for students to obtain a student “Internet Use Card.”

Limited English Proficient (LEP) Program In accordance with the Board’s philosophy to provide a quality education program for all students, the district shall provide an appropriate planned instructional program for identified students whose dominant language is not English. Students who have limited English proficiency will be identified, assessed and provided appropriate services. A complete copy of the Seymour Board of Education Administering Medication Policy (#6141.311) is available from the Building Principal/Assistant Principal(s) or from the Superintendent of School at 98 Bank Street, Seymour.

Medication Policy There are many times when children are required to receive medication during school hours. Parents are asked to review the following rules applying to the administering of medication during school hours: 1.

3. 4. 5.

No child may, during school hours, administer to himself/herself, or carry on his/her person or in his/her locker, etc., any medications for self-administration or administration by others. (For the policy concerning epi-pens and inhalers see #6 in this list of medication rules). Any school staff member who, in school, observes a child carrying, or giving himself/herself medication, shall report such student to the principal or health aide, who shall immediately ascertain from the child’s parent (guardian) whether such medication has been prescribed by a physician. School personnel may not administer medication to a school child unless the parent (guardian) has previously filled out and signed the prescribed form procurable from the child’s physician or school. Only a school nurse, and only under a doctor’s prescription, may place drops into a child’s ears, eyes or nose. Other medications may be administered by the principal or designated teachers, as well as by the nurse. No medication including aspirin, ibuprofen or an aspirin substitute containing acetaminophen shall be administered without the written authorization of a physician or dentist and the written authorization of a parent or guardian. Such authorization shall be submitted on the Seymour Board of Education Medical Authorization Form H-1 Self-administration of medications by students is not allowed. With permission signed by a physician and parent, the exception to this is an Epi-Pen and/or inhaler used for allergic reactions that could possibly be life threatening.

A complete copy of the Seymour Board of Education Administering Medication Policy (#5141.21) is available from the Building Principal/Assistant Principal(s) or from the Superintendent of School at 98 Bank Street, Seymour. Policy Adopted – Seymour Board of Education: July 21, 2003 Migrant Students The Superintendent will develop and implement a program to address the needs of migrant children in the district.

A complete copy of the Seymour Board of Education Administering Medication Policy (#6141.312) is available from the Building Principal/Assistant Principal(s) or from the Superintendent of School at 98 Bank Street, Seymour.

“No-Child-Left-Behind” Legislation As a parent, you have a right under the Federal No Child Left Behind Act to request information regarding the professional qualifications of any teacher/paraprofessional your child has in any school in Seymour that receives Title 1 funds, information on the level of achievement of your child, and timely notice that your child has been taught for four or more weeks by a teacher who is not highly qualified. Additional information concerning “NoChild-Left-Behind can be obtained from the office of the principal or from one of the assistant principals.

On-Campus Recruitment Subject to the provisions of Subdivision (11) of Subsection (b) of Section 1-210 of the Connecticut General Statutes, Seymour High School shall provide the same directory information and on-campus recruiting opportunities to representatives of the armed forces of the United States of America and the State Armed Services as are offered to nonmilitary recruiters, recruiters, recruiters for commercial concerns and recruiters representing institutions of higher education. Military recruiters or institutions of higher learning shall have access to secondary school students’ names, addresses, and telephone listings unless a secondary student or the parent of the student requests that such information not be released without prior written parental consent. The Seymour Board of Education policy #5145.15 form #1, Denial of Permission To Release Certain Directory Information Without Prior Written Consent, is available at the Seymour High School Guidance Office. A complete copy of the Seymour Board of Education On-Campus Recruitment Policy (#5145.14) is available from the Building Principal/Assistant Principal(s) or from the Superintendent of Schools located at 98 Bank Street, Seymour. Policy Adopted – Seymour Board of Education: July 21, 2003

Pest Management/Pesticide Application The Board of Education believes that structural and landscape pests can pose significant hazards to people, property and the environment. Pests are living organisms such as plants, animals or microorganisms that interfere with human uses for the school site. Strategies for managing pest populations will be influenced by the pest species and the degree to which the population poses a threat to people, property or the environment. Further the Board also believes that pesticides can also pose hazards to people, property and the environment. The intent of this policy is to ensure the health and safety of students, teachers, staff and all others using district buildings and grounds. Areas to receive pesticide application will be posted and a written record of all pesticide applications will be maintained for five years. Parents/guardians and staff who want to receive advance notice of all pesticide use will be listed on a registry and such notice will be provided as required by law. Parents/guardians who want to be

notified prior to pesticide applications inside their child(ren)’s school assignment area may contact the Director of Facilities, Mr. Wayne Natzel (203-888-4513 ext.1121).

Pledge of Allegiance Seymour Public Schools shall ensure that time is available each day for students under its jurisdiction to recite the “Pledge of Allegiance.” This policy shall not be construed to require any person to recite the “Pledge of Allegiance.” Legal Reference: Connecticut General Statutes §10-230(c), Policy on the Reciting of the “Pledge of Allegiance.”

Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) In this policy, “surveys, analyses, or evaluations” refer to methods of gathering data for research purposes. No student shall be required as part of any program wholly or partially subsidized by the U.S. department of Education to submit to any survey, analysis, or evaluation that reveals information concerning: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

Political affiliation or beliefs of the student or the student’s parents; Mental or psychological problems of the student or the student’s family; Sex behavior or attitudes; Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior; Critical appraisals of other individuals with whom respondents have close family relationships; Legally recognized privileged or analogous relationships, such as those of lawyers, physicians, and ministers; Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the students or student’s parents; or Income (other than required by law to determine eligibility for participation in a program or for receiving financial assistance under such program without the prior written consent of the student’s parent/guardian. For the purpose of this policy, “instructional material” does not include academic tests or assessments.

A complete copy of the Seymour Board of Education On-Campus Recruitment Policy (#6162.51(a)) is available from the Building Principal/Assistant Principal(s) or from the Superintendent of Schools located at 98 Bank Street, Seymour.

“Public School Choice” In Connecticut Connecticut celebrates a long tradition of excellence and innovation in education. Its schools offer a range of educational programs to meet the diverse needs and career aspirations of its students in a variety of settings including comprehensive local schools, regional vocational-technical schools, vocational agriculture centers, charter schools, and magnet schools. All these programs serve to prepare students for college, the workplace and active citizenship. The Open Choice program allows urban students to attend public schools in nearby suburban towns. It allows suburban and rural students to attend public schools in a nearby urban center. Enrollments are offered by school districts on a space-available basis in grades K-12. Lotteries are used to place students when there are more

applications than spaces available. The program includes Hartford, Bridgeport and New Haven and their surrounding districts. If you would like further information regarding “Public School Choice,” please contact the Main Office of Seymour High School at 888-2561. A guide for students and families is available. This booklet is designed to give you and your child information about the educational choices now available in the State of Connecticut.

Search and Seizure Desks and school lockers are property of the schools. The right to inspect desks, lockers and other equipment assigned to students may be exercised by school officials to safeguard students, their property and school property. An authorized school administrator may search a student’s desk, locker or other school property if at the inception of the search there is reasonable cause to believe that the search will turn up evidence that the student has violated or is violating either the law or school rules. This document serves as advance notice that school board policy allows desks and lockers to be inspected if the administration has reason to believe that materials injurious to the best interests of students and the school are contained therein. A search of a student’s personal property may be conducted if there are reasonable grounds for suspecting that the search will turn up evidence that the student has violated or is violating either the law or the rules of the school. A student’s other effects are also subject to the same rule. Effects may include motor vehicles located on school property. A student may be searched if there are reasonable grounds for suspecting that the search will turn up evidence that the student has violated or is violating either the law or the rules of the school. Such evidence may include, but is not limited to weapons, contraband material or the fruits of crime. A copy of the complete Seymour Board of Education policy concerning the Reporting of Child Abuse (Policy #5145.12) is available from any Principal/Assistant Principal or from the offices of the Seymour Board of Education, 98 Bank Street, Seymour, CT.

Use of Trained Sniffer Dogs to Detect Odor of Illegal Drugs and Other Illegal Substances on School Property (Board Policy 5145.122(a)) The Board is aware that students have been involved in possession of drugs and other illegal substances in the schools and on school property, and considers such activity to be detrimental to the learning process and to the health of those involved. The Board supports the elimination of the possession or use of illegal substances/devices. The Board wants to convey a strong message to the community, faculty, staff, and student body concerning the use or possession of illegal substances in connection with the Seymour Public Schools. All students, parents, and visitors are advised that it is the policy of the Seymour Board of Education that all lockers, desks, and any other school-provided areas used to store property at any school facility or on any school property are the property of the Board and are not the property of a student to whom they are assigned or who may be permitted to use them. Use of such facilities is a privilege, not a right. As such, all lockers, desks and other storage places on school property are subject to search by Board employees or agents whenever there are reasonable grounds to believe that a search would produce evidence of illegal activity, possession of an illegal object or substance, or of a violation of Board policy or school rules. All students and visitors must understand that

they do not have the right to expect privacy in connection with their use of such lockers, desks, and other storage locations, and that any illegal or improper items they may store on school property may be discovered by unannounced search or inspection. Likewise, the grant of permission to students and visitors to bring vehicles onto school property is a privilege and not a right. Vehicles on school property are subject to search by Board employees or agents whenever there are reasonable grounds to believe that such a search would produce evidence of illegal activity, possession of an illegal object or substance, or a violation of Board policy or school rules. All persons are placed on direct notice that the Board bans from school property or facilities all illegal or controlled drugs or substances, alcoholic beverages, weapons and any other items or substances that are illegal to possess under Board policy or state or federal law, and further, that any person in possession of same violates Board policy and has no reasonable expectation of privacy concerning the possession of such items while on school property or at a school event or activity. The Board authorizes the administration to invite law enforcement agencies or other qualified agencies or individuals to search school property with dogs trained for the purpose of detecting the presence of illegal substances, in order to protect the health and safety of students, employees or property and to detect the presence of illegal substances or contraband, including, among other things, alcohol and/or drugs. The use of trained sniffer dogs is subject to the following: 1. The administration must authorize the use of trained sniffer dogs and the Principal or his/her designee shall be present while the sniffer dogs are in use. 2. Parents and students shall be notified of this policy through its inclusion in whole, in part, or by summary or reference in the student and/or parent handbook. 3. All school property both inside and outside school buildings such as lockers, classrooms, parking areas and storage areas may be searched or inspected by sniffer dogs. a. Dogs shall not be used in rooms occupied by persons except for demonstration purposes with the handler present or in serious life-threatening emergencies. b. When used for demonstration purposes, the dog may not sniff the person (personal property, such as bookbags, backpacks, tote bags, purses and other objects or materials used to transport or store property that are not part of the individualâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clothing and are intended to be readily detached from the person) or any individual, unless they volunteer for such activity or are not a student or staff member of the Board. 4. Individuals shall be subjected to a dog sniff examination of the person only when there are reasonable grounds to believe that such examination will result in the disclosure of evidence of illegal activity, possession of an illegal object or substance, or a violation of Board policy or school rules. Personal property, such as book bags, backpacks, tote bags, purses and other objects or materials used to transport or store property that are not part of the individualâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clothing and are intended to be readily detached from the person, may also be so examined. 5. Once notification has been given to parents and students through the student and/or parent handbook, the school district will have met its obligation to advertise the use of drug sniffing dogs. Additional notices need not be given and actual times or dates of planned sniffer dog use need not be released in advance. If a minor student does not cooperate in a search, efforts will first be made to contact parents or guardians, but the search may nonetheless be completed with or without such contact being made. When in the judgment of the Principal or his/her designee, a clearly dangerous condition is present that threatens life, health or safety; immediate action may be taken to respond to the emergency.

6. Only the dog’s handler will determine what constitutes an alert by the dog. If the dog alerts on a particular item or place, the students having the use of the item or place or responsibility for it shall be called to witness the search. If a dog alerts on a locked vehicle, the student who brought it onto district property shall be asked to open it for inspection. 7. Law enforcement agencies will be given full authorization to investigate and prosecute any person(s) found to be responsible for illegal substance(s) on school property. 8. Any illegal substances or items that violate Board policy or student rules that are recovered on school property shall be confiscated and may be turned over to law enforcement officials. 9. In addition to possible referral to law enforcement officials, students in possession of illegal or illicit items may, where appropriate, also be subjected to discipline under Board of Education student disciplinary policies and procedures. Legal Reference: Connecticut General Statutes Sections 10-221, 54-33n New Jersey v T.L.O., 469 U.S. 325 (1985) Adopted: October 5, 2009 Revised: November 16, 2009 Sexual Harassment Policy Sexual Harassment will not be tolerated among students of the school district. It is the policy of the Seymour Board of Education that any form of sexual harassment is forbidden, whether by students, supervisory or nonsupervisory personnel, individuals under contract, or volunteers subject to the control of the board. Students are expected to adhere to a standard of conduct that is respectful and courteous to employees, to fellow students and to the public. Definition: Sexual Harassment is defined as unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature, whether verbal or physical, including, but not limited to: insulting or degrading sexual remarks or conduct; threats or suggestions that a student’s submission to or rejection of unwelcome conduct will in any way influence a decision regarding that student; or conduct of a sexual nature which substantially interferes with the student’s learning, or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive learning environment, such as the display in the education setting of sexually suggestive objects or pictures. Procedure: It is the express policy of the Board of Education to encourage victims of sexual harassment to report such claims. Students are encouraged to promptly report complaints of sexual harassment to the Assistant Superintendent of Schools. Complaints will be investigated promptly and corrective action will be taken when allegations are verified. Confidentiality will be maintained by all persons involved in the investigation and no reprisals or retaliation will be allowed to occur as a result of the good faith reporting of charges of sexual harassment.

A complete copy of the Seymour Board of Education Sexual Harassment Policy (#5145.5) is available from the Building Principal/Assistant Principal(s) or from the Superintendent of Schools located at 98 Bank Street, Seymour. Student Records; Confidentiality A student’s school records are confidential and are protected by federal and state law from unauthorized inspection or use. A cumulative record is maintained for each student from the time the student enters the district until the student withdraws or graduates. This record moves with the student from school to school. By law, both parents, whether married, separated, or divorced, have access to the records of a student who is under 18 or a dependent for tax purposes. A parent whose rights have been legally terminated will be denied access to the records if the school is given a copy of the court order terminating these rights. The principal is custodian of all records for students at the assigned school. The principal is the custodian of all records for students who have withdrawn or graduated. Records may be reviewed during regular school hours upon completion of the written request form. The record’s custodian or designee will respond to reasonable requests for explanation and interpretation of the records. Parents of a minor or of a student who is a dependent for tax purposes, the student (if 18 or older), and school officials with legitimate educational interests are the only persons who have general access to a student’s records. “School officials with legitimate educational interests” include any employee, agents, or facilities with which the district contracts for the placement of students with disabilities, as well as their attorneys and consultants, who are: 1.

Working with the student;

Considering disciplinary or academic actions, the student’s case, an Individual Education Plan (IEP) for a student with disabilities under IDEA or an individually designed program for a student with disabilities under Section 504;

Compiling statistical data; or

Investigating or evaluating programs.

Certain other officials from various governmental agencies may have limited access to the records. Parental consent is required to release the records to anyone else. When the student reaches 18 years of age, only the student has the right to consent to release of records. A student over 18 and parents of minor students may inspect the student’s records and request a correction if the records are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy or other rights. If the district refuses the request to amend the records, the requestor has the right to a hearing. If the records are not amended as a result of the hearing, the requestor has 30 school days to exercise the right to place a statement commenting on the information in the student’s record. Although improperly recorded grades may be challenged, parents and the student are not allowed to contest a student’s grade in a course through this process. Parents or the student have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education if they believe the district is not in compliance with the law regarding student records. The district’s policy regarding student records is available from the principal’s or superintendent’s office.

Certain information about district students is considered directory information and will be released to anyone who follows procedures for requesting it, unless the parent objects to the release of any or all directory information about the child. This objection must be made in writing to the principal within ten school days after the issuance of this handbook. Directory information includes a student’s name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, awards received in school, and most recent previous school attended. Military recruiters or institutions of higher learning shall have access to secondary school students names, addresses and telephone listings, unless a parent/guardian or secondary student aged 18 or over requests in writing that such information not be released. The District, when a student moves to a new school system or charter school, will send the student’s records to the new district or charter school within ten business days of receiving written notice of the move from the new district. Unless the parents/guardians of the student authorize the record transfer in writing, the sending District is required to send a notice when the records are sent to the new district. Parents and eligible students have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of education concerning alleged failures by the District to comply with the Requirements of FERPA. Complaints may be addressed to: Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 5400 Maryland Avenue, S.W., Washington, DC 202024605 A complete copy of the Seymour Board of Education Student Records; Confidentiality Policy (#5125 a-b) is available from the Building Principal/Assistant Principal(s) or from the Superintendent of Schools located at 98 Bank Street, Seymour. Suicide Policy Statement The Seymour Board of Education recognizes that suicide is a leading cause of death among young people and is a concern to this school system and the community it serves. It is the policy of the Board of Education to actively respond in any situation where a student verbally or behaviorally indicates suicidal ideation, intent to attempt suicide or to do physical harm to himself/herself. The Board of Education recognizes the need for youth suicide prevention procedures and will establish program(s) to identify risk factors for youth suicide, procedures to intervene with such youth, referral services and training for teachers, other school professionals and students to provide assistance in these programs. It is recognized by the Board of Education that suicide is a complex mental health issue and that, while school staff members may identify potentially suicidal youth, they should not as educators make clinical assessment of risk nor provide in-depth counseling or treatment but refer the youth to the appropriate agency for such assessment and counseling. If deemed necessary by the School a clinical assessment may be required and written documentation may be required and submitted to the Principal or designee stating that “the student is no longer at risk to harm himself/herself or others.” Therefore, any school employee who may have knowledge of a suicide threat or of a student at risk must take the proper steps to immediately report this information to the school administrator or his/her designee who will in turn notify the appropriate school officials and the students’ parents.

Title IX Grievance Procedure Each student is encouraged to develop and achieve individual educational goals. The district will provide every student with equal educational opportunities regardless of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, age, economic status, marital status, or disability or any other basis prohibited by local, state, and federal law. No student will be excluded on such basis from participating in or having access to any course offerings, student athletics, counseling services, employment assistance, extracurricular activities or other school resources. The district wants all students to learn in an environment free from all forms of sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is against state and federal laws. It is unwelcome sexual attention from peers, teachers, staff or anyone with whom the victim may interact. Sexual harassment, whether verbal or physical, includes, but is not limited to the following: insulting or degrading sexual remarks; threats or suggestions that a student’s submission to or rejection of unwelcome conduct will in any way influence a decision regarding that student, or conduct of a sexual nature which substantially interferes with student’s learning. Any student or other individual who feels he or she has been denied an equal opportunity in violation of this policy should immediately bring his or her complaint to the attention of the building Title IX designee for this purpose the principal and/or assistant principal, or the District Title IX Coordinator. Contact information for the Title IX designees in each building can be found in the main office of each school in the district. The District Title IX Coordinator is Christine Syriac, Associate Superintendent and can be reached at the Board of Education offices, 98 Bank Street, Seymour, CT, of by calling 203-888-4564. Transportation Complaints All complaints concerning school transportation safety shall be made to the Superintended of Schools or his/her designee.

A complete copy of the Seymour Board of Education On-Campus Recruitment Policy (#3541.5) is available from the Building Principal/Assistant Principal(s) or from the Superintendent of Schools located at 98 Bank Street, Seymour. Academic Information Academic Performance Standards for Graduation Connecticut Public Act Section 10-223a states that “each local and regional board of education shall specify the basic skills necessary for graduation, and include a process to assess a student’s level of competency in such skills.” In order for a student to earn a Seymour High School diploma, the student must earn a minimum of 22 credits and must meet the credit distribution requirements. Students who are part of the graduating class of 2015 will be required to earn a minimum of 24 credits to graduate. In addition, students must meet the district’s academic performance standards in each of the following categories: English, Social Studies, Mathematics, and Science. The minimum requirements for students (in addition to the required credit requirements of 22 credits, or 24 credits for students who are part of the graduating class of 2015) who have been enrolled in Seymour High School for at least three (3) consecutive semesters before graduation, include the following performance standards as part of the graduation requirement:

Students will have demonstrated mastery of the district performance standards if they have: English    

Achieved a minimum of Proficient Level on the Reading component of the CAPT; or Achieve a score of 450 on the SAT critical reading assessment; or Achieve a final average of 70% or above in three English classes; or During their junior or senior year achieve a minimum grade of 70% on a CAPT like reading prompt designed by the English department.

Mathematics  Achieved a minimum of Proficient Level on the Math component of the CAPT; or Achieved a score of 450 on the SAT math assessment; or Achieve a final average of 70% or above in three math courses; or During their junior or senior year achieve a minimum grade of 70% on a CAPT like mathematics assessment designed by the Math department. Science Achieved a minimum of Proficient Level on the Science component of the CAPT; or Achieved a final average of 70% or above in Biology and two science electives; or During their junior or senior year achieve a minimum grade of 70% on a CAPT like science assessment designed by the Science department. Social Studies    

Achieved a minimum of Proficient Level on the Writing component of the CAPT; or Achieve a score of 450 on the SAT writing assessment; or Achieve a 70% or above in the three social studies courses; or During their junior or senior year achieve a minimum grade of 70% on a CAPT like writing assessment designed by the Social Studies department.

Special Needs: Students with special needs may be exempt from district performance standards for graduation as described in this policy if so indicated in their Individual Education Plan (IEP). Administrative Regulations: All students are required to carry no less than six credits. Freshmen and sophomores must also take Physical Education. Juniors and seniors are allowed to take more than one English class. Students who will be graduating in 2012-2014 will be promoted to the next grade when the following minimum requirements are met: To be a sophomore

4 credits

To be a junior

10 credits

To be a senior

16 credits

To graduate

22 credits

Students Graduating in 2015 and later will be promoted to the next grade when the following minimum requirements are met. To be a sophomore

6 credits

To be a junior

12 credits

To be a senior

18 credits

To graduate

24 credits

Program of Studies booklets for the following school year are available on our web site. Auditing Previously Taken Courses In order to be eligible, a student must first carry five (6) other courses for credit. The student must obtain written permission from his/her administrator. The auditing student has the obligation to cooperate in class to the same extent as any of the other students. Should a student fail to meet all of his/her responsibilities, he/she will be dropped from the course. The student will receive no credit for the course, but the grade will appear on his/her transcript. Also, the course will not count towards the calculation of the student’s GPA or QPA. Change of Name, Address or Telephone Number Students who change their name, address or telephone number during the school year are to notify both the Guidance Office and the Main Office as soon as possible. Official notification by the student is necessary in order that the school may maintain accurate, current information.

Changing Classes Procedures/Policy: Withdrawing from a class prior to the end of the first marking period: Withdrawing from a class may be approved only under the following conditions: • The request must be made prior to the end of the first marking period. • The student must continue to carry at least six credits in addition to PE and Health. • The request must be in writing from the parent or guardian (Form letters are available in the Guidance Office). Withdrawing from a class after the first marking period: Only under extreme circumstances will requests for withdrawals be considered after the end of the first marking period. After the first marking period: • • • •

The student must continue to carry at least five credits in addition to PE and Health. The request must be in writing from the parent or guardian (Form letters are available in the Guidance Office). A WP or WF will be recorded on the students’ transcript depending on the students’ grade at the time of withdrawal. A WP or WF will not be calculated into a student’s GPA.

Class Rank/Grade Point Average/Quality Point Average: Grade point average (GPA) is determined by adding all final class averages and dividing by the number of credits attempted inclusively. This average is not used to determine class rank. Class rank is a system by which students are compared to their classmates according to their academic achievement. Colleges must be able to assess a student’s performance in relation to his/her peers in order to make appropriate admissions decisions. It also helps scholarship committees assess a student’s performance. All seniors will be ranked with the exception of: • Special Needs or Alternative Education students with 50% or more of their classes in Special Education or Alternative Education.

• • •

Transfer students to Seymour High School who have been enrolled for less than three (3) semesters. Class rank will be computed after: Six semesters – Distributed to all seniors in October. Seven semesters – Mid-point of the senior year and distributed in February.

All classes are included in the calculation of GPA and QPA excluding Pass/Fail subjects

Graduation Requirements Requirements for Graduation Class of 2012 and 2013 22 CREDITS English

4 credits

Social Studies

3 credits U.S. History and Civics required

Math

3 credits

Science

3 credits Biology required

Physical Education

1 credit

Health

.5 Credits

Life Skills – Business/Technology

1.0 credit

Electives

6.5 credits

Computer credit required

Requirements for Graduation Class of 2014 22 CREDITS English

4 credits

Social Studies

3 credits U.S. History and Civics required

Math

3 credits

Science

3 credits Biology required

Physical Education

1 credit

Health

.5 Credits

Humanities

0.5 credit

Freshman Seminar

Life Skills – Business/Technology

0.5 credit

Personal Finance required

Electives

6.5 credits

Requirements for Graduation Class of 2015 24 CREDITS English

4 credits

Social Studies

3 credits U.S. History and Civics required

Math

3 credits

Science

3 credits Biology required

Physical Education

1 credit

Health

.5 Credits

Humanities

1 credit Freshman Seminar required

Life Skills – Business/Technology

2 credits Personal Finance required

Fine Arts

1 credit

Stem*

2 credits

Electives

3.5 credits

* Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics

12th Grade Health Requirement Options All 12th grade students must select one of the following courses to fulfill the health requirement for graduation. • • • • • • •

Sociology (1/2 year) Current Issues (1/2 year) Psychology (1/2 year) Special Topics/Psychology Anatomy and Physiology (full year) Child Development (1/2 year) Fitness for Life (1/2 year)

Honor Roll At the end of each quarter when grades are determined, the Seymour High School Honor Roll will be announced. Students must be carrying five (5) credits to be considered for the Honor Roll. Students with an academic average of 90 and above with no grade below 80 will be considered on First Honors. Students with academic averages between 80 and 89, with at least one grade above 90, and with no grade below 80 will be considered on Second Honors. For both First and Second Honors a student must pass all pass/fail courses. The Honor Roll will be compiled one (1) week after report cards are issued. Any incomplete grade will keep a student off the Honor Roll.

Honors Course Requirements Incoming 9th Grade Students Students must have achieved the “Advanced” level in the 6th or 7th grade CMT’s when registering for a 9th grade honors course. • • •

Math Honors requires the advanced level on the math portion of the CMT’s. Science Honors requires the advanced level on the math portion of the CMT’s. English and Social Studies are not leveled.

Additionally • • •

Students who are interested in taking Geometry Honors in 9th grade must be enrolled in Algebra I in 8th grade. Students must maintain an A- average in subject area while in 8th grade. Subject teacher (8th grade) recommends Honors Level

Each course (Math, Science) will be considered separately. Students may take one or more Honors level courses if the above criteria is met. 10th -12th Grade Students Students may take Honors level courses in areas where they: • • •

Have earned an A- average in an extended level subject area. Subject teacher recommends the Honors level. School Counselor recommends the Honors level.

Parent Conferences Seymour High School encourages parents to confer with teachers. Conferences between educators and parents serve to improve the effective delivery of the educational programs to the students enrolled in the school. In order to facilitate this communication, there is a scheduled parent conference date held just after the issuance of the first report card. The purpose of this conference is for educators and parents to communicate on the nature of the educational programs at Seymour High School and the student’s individual progress within those programs. In addition to the one (1) scheduled conference, parents are encouraged to call teachers as soon as a concern arises or whenever necessary to discuss a student’s progress or to obtain information. Parents may make appointments for a conference at any point in the school year with a teacher or other staff member. These appointments can be scheduled by calling the teacher or the student’s counselor. Quality Point Average: The QPA is determined by adding all final averages and their assigned quality points and dividing by the number of credits attempted inclusively. The student’s quality point average (QPA) is used to determine class rank. Assigned quality points: AP – 30 quality points Honors – 20 quality points Extended – 10 quality points Core – 0 quality points

Six Semesters Class Rank (end of Junior Year): The final numeric grade in all full credit courses taken in grades 9 through 11 is used. Physical Education and Health are not counted, nor is any course that is marked pass/fail. All final averages are added up and divided by the number of courses taken (the weights – two (2) credit courses are doubled). All honors program courses are weighted. Five (5) points are added to the final average in determining class rank. The following courses are weighted: Honors English I, II, III, IV, Honors World History, Honors Ninth Grade Science, Honors Biology, Honors U.S. History, Honors Chemistry, Honors Physics, Honors Geometry, Honors Algebra II, Honors Calculus and Honors Psychology. Seven Semester Class Rank (Mid Point of Senior Year): The first semester average of the student’s senior year is calculated by adding the mid-year average of all courses (same as above for honors courses), multiplying by .5; then taking the number of weights (1.00 for each academic course) and multiplying by .5. The sum of the grades is then added to the previous GPA (end of junior year) times the previous weight. The new sum of the grades is divided by the new sum of the weights to get the GPA. Example: Mid-Year Grades 99 97 98 94 95 483 x .5 = 241.500

Weight is 5.00 x 5 = 2.5

Previous GPA (end of Junior Year) 95.412 x 17 (Total of previous weights) 1622.004 Add sum of GPA’s, divide by sum of weights 1622.00 + 241.500 1863.504 19.5 (17+2.5) 19.5 = 95.564 Plus Class Rank (end of 3rd marking period) Same as Seven Semesters Class Rank, except multiplier is .7. Textbooks All textbooks issued to students remain the property of the Town of Seymour and must be given proper care. This means they should be covered when issued, kept in good condition and returned when required. Any student who loses a book or damages a book is required to pay for its replacement. Students who cannot account for schoolissued materials at the appropriate time will not be issued a report card. Transcripts A transcript is a record of a student’s academic performance while in high school. It includes grades, attendance, rank-in-class, standardized test scores and participation in extra-curricular activities. The transcript is prepared by the guidance office and is provided to institutions of higher education, potential employers, armed forces, etc., who request it. No transcript is provided to any organization or individual unless disclosure is allowed under FERPA Notification of Rights Policy. Otherwise, the student or parent/guardian must provide a written release. There are two (2) kinds of transcripts, official and unofficial. An official transcript includes the school seal and is mailed from the guidance office. It is NOT provided to students or parents/guardians. This is at the request of institutions, organizations, etc. who fear that official transcripts may be tampered with before they are received.

Unofficial transcripts are the same transcript without the school seal. These will be provided to students and parents/guardians upon request, but no one else. Transferring From School Students should report to their counselor when they first know they will definitely be transferring from the high school, in order to begin completing clearance papers. Failure to do this will hold up transfer papers, health records and other official records. Withdrawal From School If a student decides to withdraw after reaching seventeen (17) years of age, parental approval in writing is mandatory, and the student must meet with his/her counselor to complete clearance papers. Failure to comply with this procedure will result in the delay of transcripts and references. Athletics The purpose of the sports program at Seymour High School is to improve the physical fitness of its students and to encourage good sportsmanship and to allow participation by students in a variety of athletic events. The following are the varsity sports presently offered at Seymour High School: Baseball , Football, Tennis, Basketball, Soccer, Softball, Volleyball, Swimming, Track & Field, Cheerleading, Cross Country Seymour High School is a member of the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference and the Naugatuck Valley League. There are certain requirements which must be met before the student may participate in the interscholastic sports program. These requirements and other guidelines are outlined in the Student Athletic Handbook, which is distributed to each participant and reviewed at the start of each athletic season. *A student who has outstanding disciplinary consequences (i.e. detention) must serve the discipline prior to participating. Students will be given 1 day to serve detentions. Athletic Physicals: A yearly physical examination is required for interscholastic participation. Students planning to participate in athletics are required to obtain their own physical examination prior to participation. To avoid problems with summer physical appointments, it is suggested that the student-athlete schedule his/her physical in the late spring and submit the results the school before the close of school in June. The Seymour Physical Form must be completed by a physician and submitted to the school nurse prior to participation. The cost of the examination is the responsibility of the student/athlete. Please contact the Athletic Director (888-7456) if additional information is needed. It is important to note that NO athlete will be permitted to participate (try out or practice) without meeting these requirements.

Athletes and Physical Education Student-athletes who are not physically able to participate in physical education will not be eligible to physically participate in after school athletics at Seymour High School. A doctor’s note, excusing a student from physical education class, will automatically disqualify a student athlete from participating in Seymour High School after school athletics until they have been cleared by their doctor to both participate in physical education class and after school Seymour High School athletic activities. Furthermore these classes must be made up with the physical education teacher following the normal missed class procedures. Student-athletes may still be required to attend practices (but may not physically participate) at the discretion of their respective coaches. Insurance for Athletes: The Seymour Board of Education Policy covers all Seymour High School athletes who are injured during all scheduled practice sessions and contests. The insurance is provided through the Bollinger Insurance Co., Short Hills, N.J. and is a full excess policy. This means that the policy covers the expenses not paid by your primary insurance company, such as Anthem Blue Cross. If you do not have any primary insurance coverage, this policy will pay all incurred costs. Any athletic injuries requiring medical attention should be reported immediately to the Head Coach of the particular sport. The coach will file an accident report with the Athletic Director, which will also be provided to the School Nurse. The School Nurse will provide the parents of the injured student with the information and forms necessary to obtain excess coverage and reimbursement through Bollinger Insurance. It is the responsibility of the parents to complete and file the Bollinger Insurance paperwork in a timely manner in order to receive excess benefits. Initially, all claims will be submitted first to the parent’s personal insurance carrier. Any costs not paid by the personal insurance carrier will then be submitted to Bollinger Insurance for reimbursement. Any questions concerning this coverage should be directed to the School Nurse or to the Business Office at 888-4564. Attendance Policy Philosophy of class attendance Seymour High School maintains that attendance in assigned classes is essential and is the responsibility of the student. Therefore, an attendance requirement has been established for all courses offered. There are two key points implied in the attendance requirements: 1. 2.

That time lost from class is essentially irretrievable in terms of opportunity for instructional exchange. This experience exists above and beyond any grade that is earned. That a student has an obligation to give as well as to receive in the context of the classroom setting. Absence means that both the individual and the class lose the full impact of the class experience.

General Information Attendance is required by the State of Connecticut. Each teacher is required to take attendance in every class, every period of the day. If a student is to be absent, the parent or guardian should notify the school by calling 888-2561 between 7:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. that day. This call does not replace the need for a written note. The written note must be submitted upon the student’s return to school and the note will be placed in the students attendance file.

In the event that a student's name is on the absence list and a call has not been received, the parent or guardian will generally be contacted at home, or at work if he or she cannot be reached at home. It is imperative that we have a correct phone number available in our records for this purpose. Therefore make sure your child has returned a completed emergency form. Excused Absences A student’s absence from school shall be considered excused if written documentation of the reason for the absence has been submitted within ten school days of the student’s return to school and meets the following criteria: 1.

For absences one through nine, a student’s absences from school are considered excused when the student’s parent/guardian approves such absence and submits appropriate documentation; and

For the tenth absence and all absences thereafter, a student’s absences from school are considered excused for the following reasons:

•

student illness (Note: all student illness absences must be verified by an appropriately licensed medical professional to be deemed excused, regardless of the length of absence); student’s observance of a religious holiday; death in the student’s family or other emergency beyond the control of the student’s family; mandated court appearances (additional documentation required); the lack of transportation that is normally provided by a district other than the one the student attends (no parental documentation is required for this reason); or extraordinary educational opportunities pre-approved by the Principal (or designee).

• • • • •

Unexcused Absences A student’s absence from school shall be considered unexcused unless they meet one of the following criteria: 1.

the absence meets the definition of an excused absence (including documentation requirements); or

the absence meets the definition of a disciplinary absence.

Disciplinary Absences Absences that are the result of school or district disciplinary action are excluded from these definitions. . A student who is serving an out-of-school suspension or expulsion should always be considered absent. In Attendance A student is considered to be “in attendance” if present at his/her assigned school, or an activity sponsored by the school (e.g., field trip), for at least half of the regular school day. A student not meeting the definition of “in attendance” is considered absent. Absence Notes Absence notes explaining full day absences, late arrivals to and early dismissals from school are crucial to the attendance policy. Phone calls explaining absences from school must always be followed up with a note of explanation. Written explanation for any absence is required upon the student’s return to school or, at most,

within 10 days of the absence. Such documentation should include a signed note from the studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parent/guardian or a note confirming the absence by the school nurse or by a licensed medical professional, as appropriate. Documentation should explain the nature of and the reason for the absence as well as the length of the absence. Separate documentation must be submitted for each incidence of absenteeism. For example, if a student is out sick two consecutive days, that student must submit the appropriate documentation covering both sick days. If a student is out sick two nonconsecutive days, that student must submit the appropriate documentation following each absence. Non-English speaking parents/guardians may submit documentation in their native language. If credit is lost because of attendance, the notes, which are kept in the student's attendance file, are used during appeals to explain the reason for the absence. There is no negotiation of an absence after the 10 day grace period. Lack of documentation makes an appeal of loss of credit very difficult. FOR THE TENTH ABSENCE AND ALL ABSENCES THEEAFTER, ALL STUDENT ILLNESS ABSENCES MUST BE VERIFIED BY AN APPROPRIATELY LICENSED MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL TO BE DEEMED EXCUSED, REGARDLESS OF THE LENGTH OF ABSENCE. Absence notes must include the following information: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Student's full name and grade [especially important when a parent's and child's name is different] Date(s) of absence, late arrivals, or early dismissals. Full reason(s) for absence. Signature of parent/guardian. Signature of medical professional for tenth absence and beyond.

Attendance Procedures Please schedule family vacations in accordance with the school calendar. If a student anticipates an absence the appropriate assistant principal must be contacted to discuss the situation. Early dismissal from school Students who need to be excused from school must report to the main office prior to the beginning of the school day, with a note signed by a parent or guardian with the date, time and valid reason for dismissal. Once the school day has begun, early dismissal notes will not be accepted. Then a student may only be dismissed by 1) a parent coming in personally to pick up a child or 2) a note faxed to the Main Office from a parent. Phone requests will not be honored. Students are reminded that they must have office permission before leaving school for any reason. It is important that the school can account for your whereabouts and safety. Leaving school grounds without parental permission AND office confirmation prior to departure will result in the student receiving cuts for all classes missed, an assignment to In-School Suspension with loss of senior parking privileges. Students who need to leave for a short period of time for a specific appointment should follow the above procedures for signing out and should remember to sign back in through the appropriate assistant principal when returning. To assist with the verification of an early dismissal because of a doctor's or dentist's appointment, a student should bring verification of the appointment from the doctor's office with him or her when checking back into school. Please note that only those with senior privilege have permission to leave early from school on a regular basis.

Early dismissals from the Nurse’s Office If a student is not feeling well, he/she should receive a pass from the classroom teacher to report to the school nurse. The nurse will contact a parent if the student is determined to be ill. A parent or guardian or parents' emergency notification person must pick up the ill student. The student may not drive himself/herself home, without parental consent. Students who have permission from their parents to leave school because of illness but do not sign out through the Nurses Office or the Main Office will receive cuts for all classes missed. In addition, the student will be assigned an In-School Suspension and loss of senior parking privileges (refer to driving regulations in handbook). Extra Help and Make-Up Appointments Teachers are available for extra help and make-up work before 1st period and immediately after the close of school. Students who need assistance should make appointments with their teachers in order to prevent conflicts. The student who has lost class time due to illness, field trip or early dismissal for an athletic or club event should make every effort to make up work as soon as possible. Homebound Instruction When a child’s condition may cause him/her to be absent for a minimum of ten days and nothing in his/her condition precludes instruction, home instruction can be made available. Delays in following procedure can result in delayed delivery of homebound instruction. Instruction will be provided at an assigned site by the office of the Assistant Superintendent in all academic areas. Upon the notification that you are in need of homebound instruction, contact the Superintendent’s Office, Bank Street, Seymour, CT – Telephone Number 203-888-4564. The Assistant Superintendent will instruct you as to when you may pick up the “Physically Handicapped Report” form which must be completed by your physician. When this report is completed by the physician, return it to the Assistant Superintendent who will, in turn, process it so that the homebound instruction can begin as soon as possible. The parent will be contacted by the tutor contracted to provide this service. Arrangements as to the day, time, etc., are made between the parent and the tutor. Grades attained on homebound are to be averaged in with regular classroom performance up to that point. In any area in which the student does not receive homebound instruction, work missed is to be made up to the satisfaction of the individual teacher within a reasonable amount of time upon the student’s return to class. Lateness / Tardiness to School Prior to 7:30 a.m., all students are to report directly to class. Any student arriving to school after 7:30 a.m. must report directly to the Main Office and sign in. Students must present an acceptable note documenting the reason for their tardiness. If a valid note is not received at the time of tardiness, the tardy will be unexcused. An entrance pass will be issued which the student must present to their current session teacher to gain entry to class.

NOTE: Car problems and oversleeping by parent or child are not considered legitimate reasons for being late to school. Once students decide to drive themselves or travel with other students, rather than take the bus or walk, they must assume personal responsibility for their attendance. A student who enters school late but does not sign in with the Main Office will be considered to be cutting class even if present. To assist with the verification of an absence, a student tardy to school because of a doctor or dentist appointment should bring verification of the appointment from that office with him/her when checking into school.

Loss of Credit Loss of Credit will occur at: Full-year course

13 days absent/year

Semester course

7 days absent/semester

Any Absences (excused or unexcused) or tardies totaling this number in each class will result in a loss of credit. Restoration of credit can only be obtained through a successful appeal. NOTE: A student who enters school after the beginning of the year will be allotted a prorated number of absences based upon his or her enrollment date. At the time of registration, the student and his or her teachers will be notified of the number of absences allowed before loss of credit occurs. The student will be notified that he or she has lost credit due to excessive absences. If there are any questions, he or she should contact the appropriate Assistant Principal. The student must continue to attend class regularly and remain academically active. This is the key to submitting an acceptable appeal. The decision to appeal a loss of credit in any course should be made based upon the student's total attendance record in that course. It will be helpful to ask the following questions: Do the absences fall into one of the categories of excusable absences listed in the policy? Have appropriate notes and other documents been submitted to the Attendance Secretary upon return. Is there an indication that absences have occurred for other than legitimate reasons, which have caused the student to exceed the allowed limit? If there are no valid reasons for appealing loss of credit, the student should contact his or her guidance counselor to see what options are available.

Appeals The Attendance Policy is not designed to deny credit to a student who, through no fault of his or her own, was unable to come to school due to legitimate illness or other conditions described earlier in this policy. The Appeals Board will ask only that documentation be provided substantiating the absences. It is when unexcused absences (cut or truancies) are intermixed with the absences that a problem arises. When a student deliberately chooses to be absent from class, he or she is intentionally violating the intent of the policy. Remember that a “cut” (even one) will combine with legitimate absences such as illness, hospital stays, etc. to cause a loss of credit. An administrative review of attendance will occur prior to the scheduling of appeals. The Appeals Board is composed of the student’s guidance counselor, assistant principal and school nurse. The Assistant Principals will assemble the Appeals Board at the end of each semester for the purpose of hearing requests and ruling on the appeals. At the time of the appeal: At the end of each semester, those students who have lost credit will be contacted before the Appeals Board meets. The student must indicate whether he or she still wishes to appeal. A schedule for the Appeals Board will be compiled and the student will be notified of the time of the appeal. The student must submit a letter at the time of the Appeals hearing explaining why the Appeals Board should restore his or her credit. The following evidence will be considered: 1. 2.

3. 4.

Absence with a valid medical excuse. A signed physician's statement will be required if a medical appeal is to be made. Notes dealing with: a. Death in the family b. Extenuating circumstances Official dated documents providing proof of presence in court (dates subtracted from attendance total) Further support may be provided by parents or legal guardians, i.e. explanatory notes from doctors or therapists.

The following types of absences are not considered as excusable: 1. 2. 3.

Unverified absences Absences due to class cutting Truancy

An Appeals Board decision is final. It will only be reviewed by the principal at the written request of the parent/ guardian or student as a result of the introduction of additional information which has not been shared with the Appeals Board. In cases involving special education students, the principal may refer a case to the Planning and Placement Team for review. If a student is denied credit, he or she should see the guidance counselor about the possibility of attending summer school.

Senior Privileges It is believed that certain privileges should be granted to members of the senior class. As such, the flowing conditions will be granted during senior year at Seymour High School. Delayed Arrival If a senior has a scheduled study hall during first or fifth period, the student may obtain a permission slip from the Main Office. Once the permission slip is returned to the high school, that student is exempted from attending first or fifth period study hall. Students will be required to enter the building through the front entrance and remain in the foyer of the school until the bell rings, signaling the end of first period. It is the student’s responsibility to know when homerooms, advisory, SSR, and delayed openings are scheduled or occur and to be on time for their second period class. It is also the student’s responsibility to know which scheduled day we are on, A or B, that corresponds with their first or fifth period class. No schedule changes will be made to accommodate a delayed arrival. Early Dismissal If a senior has a scheduled study hall during fourth or eighth period, the student may obtain a permission slip from the Main Office. Once the permission slip is returned to the high school, the student is exempt from attending their fourth or eighth period study hall. Students are required to exit the building immediately after the end of sixth period. If the student needs to stay after school for any reason, they must report and sign in to the seventh period study hall in the Cafeteria. Students found to be loitering in the building will lose their early dismissal privilege. It is also the student’s responsibility to know which scheduled day we are on, A or B, that corresponds with their first or fifth period class. No schedule changes will be made to accommodate an early dismissal.

Summer School Policy 1. Students who fail a subject for the year may attend an approved summer school for credit provided they do so during the summer following the close of the school year in which they failed the subject. Exceptions to this must be approved by the school administration. 2. Students may make up no more than two (2) academic courses for credit during a summer session. 3. Students must have earned a minimum grade of “50” in order to attend summer school. 4. Students who successfully complete summer school will receive a passing grade of “60” for the course. Tardiness to Class When the bell rings, a student is officially counted as tardy if he/she is not inside the classroom for any class, study hall or homeroom. An office detention will be given by the teacher. If detained by a teacher, guidance counselor or an administrator, the student must have a pass to the next class. The student will be given an excused tardy. In all cases the student will be responsible for all work missed.

Tardy 1 — Less Than 15 Minutes Any student arriving late to class 15 minutes or less without a pass will be given an Tardy 1 which will equal 1/3 absence. The student is responsible for all work missed and making up loss of time with the classroom teacher at the teacher’s discretion.

Tardy 2 — Over 15 minutes late—less than 30 minutes late Any student arriving late to class more than 15 minutes late and less than 30 minutes late without a pass will be given a Tardy 2 which will equal 1/2 absence. The student is responsible for all work missed and making up loss of time with the classroom teacher at the teacher’s discretion. Tardy 3 — 30 or more minutes late Any student arriving late to class more than 30 minutes late will be given a Tardy 3, which will equal an absence. The student is responsible for all work missed and making up loss of time with the classroom teacher at the teacher’s discretion.

Class Cut A "cut" is defined as any unauthorized absence from class. A “cut” is equivalent to an absence. Students will receive a zero for the class period and missed work, including tests, which may not be made up.

Student Guidelines Student Attendance Responsibility It is the responsibility of the student to make sure that his or her attendance has been accurately recorded. Therefore, if a student's attendance is incorrect, the student should discuss the error with the appropriate teacher. The teacher will try to assist in attendance verification. If the teacher is unable to correct the attendance, the student should go to the Assistant Principal’s Secretary for assistance. To participate in or attend a school activity or athletic contest, a student must attend school for half of the school day (two 87 minute periods). The school office must be notified by a signed note from the student’s parent before dismissal will be granted.

Attendance Warnings When a student has reached approximately one half of the stated absences in a particular course, the student and parent will be notified. In addition, there will be a required meeting with a guidance staff member. Although it is the student's responsibility to keep track of his or her attendance, the student has a right to ask the Guidance Secretary for an up-to-date attendance total.

General Guidelines All classroom teachers are required to take attendance in each class during the day. At the time that attendance is taken, the teacher does not make a value judgment as to why the student was absent. Based on the official school attendance each period, the teacher can only decide whether a student was tardy, present, or absent The following are recorded as absences: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Full day absences from school. Please see note below. Late arrival to school. Could be treated as an absence or a cut, depending upon parental sign-in. Early dismissal from school. "Cuts" from class. Truancies.

NOTE: Please schedule family vacations in accordance with the school calendar. When considering doctor's appointments, and other late arrivals and early dismissals, parents and students will have to judge the relative benefits and possible consequences in relation to lost school time. These absences could result in a loss of credit. It is important that students be aware of the number of absences they have in each class. It is suggested that each student check periodically with the Assistant Principal’s Secretary to determine attendance status. It is the student’s responsibility to make up all missed work.

The following activities are considered extensions of the school's academic program. These activities will not be recorded as absences from class: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Class meetings and Student Government meetings – these will be rotated period to period Special assemblies (prior permission is required from subject teacher whose class will be missed) Field trips Guidance and administrative appointments Athletic events when students are dismissed by the main office Special school activities

Facilities Cafeteria Rules and Regulations: 1. 2. 3. 4.

Enter and leave the serving area according to the posted signs. Have your money ready by the time you get to the cashier. Paper money must be unfolded. Once a lunch choice has been selected, there can be no exchanges. No food may be delivered to the school by outside vendors. Students who return to school (after being dismissed earlier in the day) with a “fast food lunch” will be required to eat their lunch in one of the administrative offices. 5. Leave condiments (catsup, mustard, mayonnaise) on the table provided by the cafeteria staff. 6. Leave tables clean for the group that follows you, regardless of the source of the trash. 7. No food shall be taken/consumed outside of the cafeteria. 8. The cafeteria management reserves the right to alter price and offerings during the school year as the need arises. 9. Free and reduced rate lunches cannot be sold or used by any other student other than to whom it was issued. 10. Students cannot “charge” lunches.

Offer vs. Serve: Students shall not be required to accept foods which they do not intend to consume. At least three (3) of the five (5) food items offered constitute a lunch. The price is the same whether the student takes three (3) or five (5) components. Food Service The Department of Food Services encourages a healthy lifestyle by providing meals and snack that contribute to learning about wise food choices. Menus offer a variety of choices from all areas of the Food Guide Pyramid and meet all federal guidelines. A nutritious lunch is offered at all five schools, along with a breakfast and kindergarten milk program for students who attend half day kindergarten. Seymour Schools participate in the federally funded National School Lunch Program. Therefore meals are offered at reduced or no cost to students whose families qualify financially and have completed a Free and Reduced Application. Applications are sent home on the first day of school or you can contact the school directly for an application at any time during the year.

Library Media Center The Seymour High School Media Center provides a variety of print and non-print materials for student use. In addition to books, magazines and newspapers, the Media Center offers VCR Tapes, CD-ROMs and research databases on CD-ROM. Internet access is available to students who have read and agreed to the Internet Use Policy. They must show their card every time they use the Internet. It is hoped that students will take full advantage of these resources for their research, class work, study and recreational reading. To that end, all students have the responsibility to respect the rights and privileges of others in order to create a productive atmosphere in the Media Center. Library Media Center Rules: Students must have a pass to come to the Media Center â&#x20AC;&#x201C; passes are first obtained from a subject teacher and then consigned by the study hall teacher. Study Hall When students do not have a class scheduled at any time during the day, they will be assigned to a study hall. Students must report directly to study hall before the tardy bell rings. No card playing, gambling, playing of radios or use of electronic devices is allowed. In order to leave the room, they must have a pass stating their name, date, destination, as well as the name of the teacher who requests that the student be permitted to leave the study hall. Please note that a pass is only a request. The privilege of participation in other activities may be denied if abused.

General Information Activities and Class Advisors Senior/Junior Class Advisors:

Bruce Deming John McCasland

Freshman/ Sophomore Class Advisor:

Mary Deming

Drama Club Advisor:

Joshua Swetts

French Club Advisor:

Janet Tropeano

Future Business Leaders:

Jennifer Sardo Kathleen Verlezza

HOPE Club:

Heather Brown

Literary Magazine/Newspaper Advisor:

Stephanie Shelinsky

Best Buddies

Paul Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor Erin Scozzafava

National Honor Society Advisor:

Eric DeMarco Stephanie Shelinsky

Spanish Club Advisor:

Fatima Silva

Student Council Advisor:

Lisa Cheney

Yearbook Advisor:

Alan Skiparis

Bell Schedule 2012-2013 (No Homeroom)

Teachers Report to Assigned Duties at 7:10 Warning Bell at 7:28

Period

Begins

Concludes

1/5

7:30

8:57

2/6

9:02

10:31

3/7

10:36

12:28

1st lunch

11:13

11:38

2nd lunch

11:38

12:03

3rd lunch

12:03

12:28

4/8

12:33

2:00

Bell Schedule 2012-2013 (With SSR) Teachers Report to Assigned Duties at 7:10 Warning Bell at 7:28

Period

Begins

Concludes

1/5

7:30

8:52

2/6

8:57

10:21

SSR

10:21

10:41

3/7

10:46

12:33

1st lunch

11:18

11:43

2nd lunch

11:43

12:08

3rd lunch

12:08

12:33

4/8

12:38

2:00

Bell Schedule 2012-2013 (With Advisory) Teachers Report to Assigned Duties at 7:10 Warning Bell at 7:28 Period

Begins

Concludes

1/5

7:30

8:51

2/6

8:56

10:17

Advisory

10:22

10:42

3/7

10:47

12:32

1st lunch

11:17

11:42

2nd lunch

11:42

12:07

3rd lunch

12:07

12:32

4/8

12:37

2:00

Bell Schedule 2011-2012 (With 7 Minute Homeroom) Teachers Report to Assigned Duties at 7:10 Warning Bell at 7:28

Period

Begins

Concludes

1/5

7:30

8:54

Homeroom

8:59

9:06

2/6

9:11

10:37

3/7

10:42

12:31

1st lunch

11:16

11:41

2nd lunch

11:41

12:06

3rd lunch

12:06

12:31

4/8

12:36

2:00

Bell Schedule 2011-2012 Delayed Opening Teachers Report to Assigned Duties at 9:10 Warning Bell at 9:28

Period

Begins

Concludes

1/5

9:30

10:22

2/6

10:27

11:20

3/7

11:25

12:40

1st lunch

11:25

11:50

2nd lunch

11:50

12:15

3rd lunch

12:15

12:40

4/8

12:45

2:00

Bell Schedule 2011-2012 Half Day Teachers Report to Assigned Duties at 7:10 Warning Bell at 7:28

Period

Begins

Concludes

1/5

7:30

8:35

2/6

8:40

9:45

3/7

9:50

10:55

4/8

11:00

12:05

Buses Rules & Regulations: By administrative policy of the public schools, the drivers of our school buses are responsible for maintaining reasonably proper behavior on the part of the students who enjoy the privilege of public school transportation. A “notification” will be sent to the student for one (1) or more of the following reasons: 1. Failure to remain seated while the bus is in motion. 2. Scuffling and fighting. 3. Repeatedly engaging in loud and boisterous conduct. 4. Profanity. 5. Throwing or causing articles to fly through or out of the bus. 6. Extending parts of the body out of the bus. 7. Eating on the bus. 8. Smoking on the bus. 9. Destruction of property belonging to others. Riding a school bus is a privilege that may be granted or denied by the Seymour Board of Education. While riding on a school bus, all students must abide by the rules of conduct as listed above. The bus driver will report any misconduct of bus students to the building principal or his/her designee on each occasion it occurs. The principal or his/her designee will use the following procedures in acting on reports of misconduct of bus pupils. Depending on seriousness of the offense, he/she may bypass the first steps in the procedure for handling the violation of bus regulations. Bus Conduct: 1st Written Warning Principal talks with student; parents notified by written warning. Written notice is signed by parents and returned to the Principal’s office on the following day. 2nd Written Warning Principal notifies parents of warning by phone; meeting with parents and students is made with Principal. (with-in five school days) *3rd Written Warning Student is denied bus transportation for ten school days. * If a student’s behavior on the bus has been of such a serious nature then the two written warnings procedures may be waived and the student would be denied transportation on a first offense for ten school days.

Class Dues Class dues are collected each year to help defray the cost of class activities and graduation expenses. Currently, thirty dollars ($30) per year is assessed to each member of the student body at Seymour High School for class dues. Class dues are cumulative and students are encouraged to “stay current” with the paying of these dues in order to

participate in the various class activities (example: in order to purchase a ticket to the prom, homecoming dance, junior ring dance etc. all dues must be paid). Typical activities that are funded either wholly, or in part, include the freshman/sophomore class trip to a major area amusement park, attendance at the prom, admission to the senior banquet and senior picnic, and for the rental of the graduation cap and gown.

Clubs and Organizations Student Council: The purpose of the Student Council is: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

To provide unity and cooperation among the pupils of the school in all extracurricular activities. To develop the spirit, ideals and practice of good citizenship in the school. To promote the general welfare, good name and reputation of Seymour High School. To promote justice and equality for all pupils in the school. To provide a satisfactory means of carrying on relations with other schools. To promote cooperation and good will between the Student Council and the Student Body. To keep the students informed about all Council meetings and activities. To establish and maintain all rules for all elections sponsored by the Council. To reflect to the Administration student opinions on the matters over which the Council has no legislative authority.

Student Representation on the Seymour Board of Education It is the plan of the Seymour Board of Education to seat two (2) students from Seymour High School, in a nonvoting capacity, at all public Board of Education meetings. Definition: The student representative will not attend executive sessions of the Board, nor will they have access to associated back-up material. Student opinion will be solicited to give an added dimension to the Boardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s decisionmaking process. Procedures: 1.

2. 3.

4. 5.

Two students will be recommended yearly by the high school principal, in conjunction with the Student Council, approved by the Superintendent of Schools and voted on by the Seymour Board of Education no later than the first regular meeting in October. Such students seated will be given an orientation session by the Superintendent of Schools after the students have been voted on by the Board, but before their first board meeting as student representatives. Student representatives will be chosen by the Student Council on the basis of their scholarship and leadership abilities, and will represent the student body of Seymour High School. Furthermore, these representatives will be expected to report back to the Student Council on the deliberations of the Board. The student representativeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s term of office shall be one (1) year. Student representatives may be removed from their position of non-voting members of the Seymour Board of Education by an affirmative vote of 2/3 of the Board.

National Honor Society Seymour High School is a member of the National Honor Society, which is under the jurisdiction of the National Association of Secondary School Principals. To be considered for membership, a candidate must be a member of the sophomore, junior or senior class as designated in the chapter bylaws. Students requesting more information concerning induction into Seymour High School’s National Honor Society Chapter should see the group’s advisor Clubs Math Club: Selected students with a talent for math will compete with area schools in a variety of competitions designed to test mathematical knowledge and aptitude. Spanish Club: The purpose of the Spanish Club (La Alianza Epanola) is the practice of Spanish and the familiarization of the club members with Hispanic-American customs. Drama Club: The purpose of the Drama Club is to introduce students to live theater. The focus will not be solely on putting on a production, but rather on the elements necessary to create theater. French Club: The purpose of the French Club is the practice of French and the familiarization of club members with French cultures. HOPE Club: Students work within the communities of Seymour, Oxford, Beacon Falls, or other Valley towns, assisting various public service agencies as they perform services to improve the quality of life for those in need. Yearbook Staff: The yearbook staff sells ads to raise funds, writes copy, designs page layouts, takes pictures, and sells and distributes the school yearbook. Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA): FBLA prepares students for the world of business. State and National competitions are held in such business skill areas as computer operations, accounting, word processing and others. Literary Magazine/Newspaper: Members edit and publish original fiction and non-fiction submitted by both students and staff. These publications are sold to members of the school and members of the community at a nominal cost. Cooperative International Studies Program: C.I.S.P. is a club that brings together students from area schools to investigate a variety of international subjects through field trips, research projects, and guest speakers. Participation in C.I.S.P. is a great way to make new friends while learning about the world we live in.

Driving – Parking Regulations Parking on the Seymour High School campus during school hours is permitted by parking permit only. The right to operate a motor vehicle and park on Seymour High School property during school hours is a privilege available for senior students. Parking permits will be issued on a first-come basis after the proper forms have been filled out. All parking permits will be issued at the Main Office. If there are available parking spaces on campus after spaces are issued to seniors, juniors may apply for parking privileges and the right to operate a vehicle on school grounds. Spaces issued to juniors may be taken back during

the course of the school year to allow seniors who require a parking space to park on campus. Spaces taken back from juniors will be done by a lottery. The following regulations apply during school hours to all students that have been issued a parking permit: 1.

Each student must display an official parking permit, corresponding to their assigned parking space, from their vehicle’s rearview mirror at all times when parking on campus. 2. Once a student parks his/her vehicle on campus, he/she must immediately enter the school building. 3. Students must operate their vehicle in a slow, safe manner and obey all traffic control signals. 4. Students must obey all directives from any staff member regarding parking and/or operation of the student’s vehicle. 5. If a student does not consistently use his/her parking space, it will be forfeited. 6. If a student’s right to park/operate a vehicle on campus has been suspended or revoked, and their vehicle is found on campus, it will be towed at the owner’s expense. Any violations of the aforementioned regulations or the following infractions will result in the loss of parking privileges and the right to operate a vehicle on campus for the stated number of school days listed below:

Schedule of Infractions & Consequences

Infraction

1st Off.

2nd Off.

3rd Offense

Talking on a cell Phone while Driving

Warning

5 Days

15 Days

Seat Belt Violation

Warning

5 Days

15 Days

Improper Parking

Warning

5 Days

15 Days

Traveling Wrong Way

5 Days

10 Days

15 Days

Improper Passing

5 Days

10 Days

15 Days

Allowing another student to use parking space

5 Days

10 Days

20 Days

Failure to display parking permit

Warning

5 Days

10 Days

Unsafe backing

5 Days

10 Days

20 Days

Passengers Prohibited CT Teen Driving Law

5 Days

10 Days

20 Days

Failure to immediately enter school/loitering near vehicles

10 Days

20 Days

Revoked

Failure to obey traffic 10 Days control sign or markings

20 Days

Revoked

Failure to obey Staff’s or Officer’s directions

20 Days

Revoked

10 Days

Excessive noise/loud music

10 Days

20 Days

Revoked

Traveling too fast

10 Days

30 Days

Revoked

“At-Fault” in an accident

30 Days

Revoked

---

Excessive tardiness To School (10 or more)

30 Days

Revoked

---

Passing School Bus

30 Days

Revoked

---

Leaving school Without permission

30 Days

Revoked

---

Reckless Driving

Revoked

---

*Note: “Days” refers to school days and suspension of parking privileges can extend into the following school year

Fire Drills Directions for fire drills are posted in every classroom. Students should learn the directions in each room in which they have a class. The signal for a fire drill is given by the sounding of a horn in the corridors. When the signal is given, students should follow instructions promptly, in good order, and without talking.

Safeguarding Personal Property PUPILS SHOULD NOT LEAVE VALUABLES UNATTENDED. Students who find it necessary to bring valuables to

school should consult with their administrator upon entering the school building. Although the student’s locker is not necessarily a safe haven, the risk of having items stolen dramatically increases when students share a locker or when they disable to locking mechanism. In physical education classes, valuables should be turned over to the physical education teacher for safekeeping. In the event that anything is lost or missing, it should be reported immediately. The Lost and Found Department is located in the school’s main office. Seymour High School is not responsible for lost or stolen items including but not limited to phones, ipods, and other electronic devices. School Cancellations/Delayed Opening When hazardous weather conditions exist without the hope of early improvement, school will be cancelled and announcements of the cancellation will be on the below-listed radio and television stations. A delayed opening procedure for the Seymour High School will be implemented as follows: The delayed opening of schools will take place on days when bad weather conditions make a normal opening inadvisable, but the likelihood of improved weather conditions make a delayed opening of school a reasonable course of action. On delayed opening days, all morning classes will begin 90 minutes after their normal starting time and bus runs will be made 90 minutes later than usual. All school closings will be at the normal time. On stormy days, turn to any one of the stations listed below for delayed openings or closings. “No School” announcements are made several times between 6:00 a.m. and 7:30 a.m. Also, feel free to check the following web site for “No School” cancellations: www.seymourschools.org Radio Stations: WICC (AM) 600, WATR (AM) 1320, WELI (AM) 960, WEZN (FM) 99.9, KC101 (FM) 101.3 Television Stations: WTNH – Channel 8, WVIT – Channel 30, WTIC – Channel 3 Please Note: Inclement weather during Mid-Year Exams If school is CANCELLED on a mid-year exam day, the testing schedule will resume the next day school is in session. If school is DELAYED, a regular school day schedule will be followed, and exams will resume the next day.

School Motto Sincerity, Scholarship, Honor, Sagacity School Song Three cheers for Seymour High School Stalwart, strong and true, Standing by you ever, in what ever you do Praise its moral being, shout its glad hurrahs, Keep it climbing upward, strengthen its great cause Written by: Beryl Houlihan

Selective Service Seymour High School, in cooperation with the Selective Service System, would like to remind all male students of their legal obligation to register with the Selective Service within 30 days before or after their 18th birthday. Failure to register is a serious federal criminal offense carrying penalties of up to $250,000 in fines and/or five (5) years in jail. Registering is also a requirement to be eligible for federally funded job training programs, college student loans, and employment with the federal government and many state, county and municipal governments. Since we do not want any young man to suffer any adverse consequences, we urge full compliance with the requirements of this important civic responsibility.

Social Functions Students who plan to attend a school-sponsored social function in the evening, regardless of the sponsoring group, will not be excused from school for hair appointments, etc., prior to the conclusion of period 5. The school office must be notified by a note from the studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parent or by a telephone call to the office from a parent before dismissal will be granted. Students who do not attend school on the day of an evening social event, whether they are absent due to illness or suspension, will not be allowed to attend the event that evening. Students who misbehave at a school-sponsored extracurricular activity are subject to appropriate administrative discipline.

Duties of a Host: The impression visitors get of our school depends on you, the student body. As the student body of the home school, you have very definite responsibilities as a host. You must constantly strive to perform these duties. 1. 2. 3. 4.

6. 7.

Make your guest, including the visiting team and officials, feel at home and wish to return. Conduct yourselves in such a manner that our visitors will not feel as though they have been treated unfairly or dealt with in an unsportsmanlike way. Remember that your team plays at least half of its games away from home. You must extend every courtesy to your visitors that you want your team to receive when it is away. The officials assigned to a game here are persons of high standing in their communities and give of their time to encourage sports. Yes, it is true they receive a fee for their services, but persons of their caliber will not subject themselves to ill treatment for the sake of a fee. Respect their opinions and judgments and realize they have a difficult job to perform. Your visiting opponents have been well coached and have practiced hard. Their efforts will reflect their coaching and practice and their success is not luck or a gift of the official. The teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s skills should be appreciated and applauded. Recognize their ability and give credit where credit is due. Silence is a sign of respect and good manners during an attempted free throw in a basketball game. Booing is a sign of a poor sport. Direct you energy to encouragement of your team rather than booing your opponents and officials.

Student Lockers The Board of Education provides students with an individual locker to keep or store clothing, books and other personal articles when not in actual use. The use of the lockers is limited to the keeping or storing of those articles which, by the nature of their presence on school property, do not violate any applicable state or local law, regulation or ordinance. It is expected that lockers will be kept clean and orderly. Locker problems are to be reported to the main office. If the school administration has reasonable cause to believe that there is an article in the student’s locker which does not conform to these limitations, the principal or his designee shall have the authority to open and inspect the locker for the suspected article. This authority shall be exercised in such a way as to give respect to the privacy of the student’s locker consistent with the safety and welfare of the occupants of the school. School properties may be inspected by school authorities in the interest of maintenance, health and safety. Inspections for the location of drugs, narcotics, liquor, weapons, poisons and missing properties are matters relating to health and safety and may be regarded as reasonable purposes for inspection by school personnel (cf. 5145.12 – Search and Seizure). Sharing lockers, giving out combinations, and disabling the locking mechanism on lockers are strictly forbidden.

Visitors Parents and other visitors are welcome to visit district schools. All visitors must first report to the main office. As part of the Seymour Public Schools Emergency Crisis Plan all visitors who come to our schools must among other things produce identification and state their reason for the visit to the school. Visitors must sign in/out and state the reason for the visit. Visitors must wear an identification badge while in the building. Visits to individual classrooms during instructional time shall be permitted only with the principal’s approval, and such visits shall not be permitted if their duration or frequency interferes with the delivery of instruction or disrupts the normal school environment. Unauthorized persons shall not be permitted in school buildings or on school grounds. School principals are authorized to take appropriate action to prevent such persons from entering the building or from loitering on the grounds. Such persons will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. All visitors are expected to demonstrate the highest standards of courtesy and conduct. Disruptive behavior will not be permitted.

Where To Go For Whatâ&#x20AC;Ś To The Main Office For: Locker Problems Working papers Special permissions (dismissals, excuses, tardy passes, tardiness to school). School transportation problems. Lost and Found articles. School activity finances. Parking permits.

To The Guidance Office For: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

Information on Schools and Colleges. Personal Counseling. Information on Scholarships. Schedule Problems. Check Graduation Credits/Credits Earned. Community Service Program. Information on Career Options/Vocations. Information on Job Shadowing/Internships. Current Job Postings.

Student Health Program Student Physical Examinations: Physical examinations are required of pupils prior to school entry, grade 7 and 10, as well as from new student to the school. Physical examination forms will be provided for students in the selected grades for completion by a physician. Those who cannot afford a physical examination by a private physician may request in writing, to the Board of Education of Department of Pupil Personnel Services, that the school physician provide the examination. Completed physical health forms MUST be returned to the school principal by August 15 of the current year. When parents fail to obtain the physical examination of the student (which is required by Connecticut STATE STATUTE) and the school nurse is unable to encourage the parents to cooperate, the superintendent of schools will be notified and an appointment for the student to be examined by the school physician will be scheduled.

Student Insurance: Upon the entering of school in September, each student is given the opportunity to purchase a student accident policy. This policy covers accidental bodily injuries sustained while: 1. 2. 3. 4.

On the way from home to school. While at school. On the way home from school. While participating in supervised school activities.

Seymour High School Principal                    

W.H. Angleton E.C. Stiles E.C. Broome A.H. Kirtland W.E. Parker G.C. Bowman C.R. Sumpf M.J. Hopkins R.C. Clark E.W. Pratt Ira E. Creelman Henry L. Adams Herman F. Urban Edward U. MacConnie Harvey LaCombe Anthony F. LoPresti Robert Blake Michael Valovcin Cathy Goodrich Glenn M. Lungarini