Table of Contents
2 General
guidelines
·
Parents/Visitors
·
School Calendar
·
Emergency Procedures
·
Educational Trips
·
Grading Guidelines
·
Bell Schedule
·
Homework Policy
19 Student
Driving Policy
21 Discipline
35 Weapons Policy
39 Drug and
Alcohol Policy
44 Harassment
Policy
48 Attendance Policy
53 Personal Health Policy
56 Computer
Use
61 Vocational
Technical School
INDEX –
1. Drug Testing Policy for extracurricular/co-curricular
programs participation and driving/parking permit
privileges
2.
Special Education – Child Find
3.
Phone directory for classroom teachers
GENERAL
GUIDELINES
TO
ALL STUDENTS
The following student handbook
contains a synopsis of specific policies as delineated in School Board Policy
Manuals and other guidelines to assist you in understanding what is expected of
you in school. The manual is reviewed
periodically and changes may be made to the manual during the course of the
school year.
HARMONY MISSION STATEMENT
The
S
Student-centered curriculum
U
Uniqueness of individuals
C
Connectedness with all
segments of the educational system
C Continual
learning
E Excellence
S Skills
essential for survival
S Satisfaction
VISION OF HARMONY AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
The Harmony Area
School District envisions an effective learning environment for all
children. An environment where leadership, professional development,
technology integration, community connectiveness, academic excellence, pride,
respect, and cooperation all connect to enrich the learning climate.
Leadership . . .
- All educational leaders in the
district will make decisions aligned with the mission, vision and shared
values of this strategic plan.
- The district leadership will
personify a firm commitment to the mission, vision and shared values of
this strategic plan.
Professional Development Vision . . .
- All professional employees’ model
life long learning by constantly renewing their subject area skills,
knowledge and pedagogy.
- All professional development
endeavors are directly related to meeting the mission of the
district.
Technology Integration . . .
- The use of technology is driven
by the value it adds to the mission of the district.
- Emerging technologies are
embraced based on how its integration improve student learning.
- 21st century skills are
integrated into every aspect of culture of learning and the daily
operation of the schools.
Community Connectiveness . . .
- The district's facilities are available
to all for learning and recreational opportunities by civic and community
organizations.
- Communication to the stakeholders
of the district is open and honest.
- The communities' values and beliefs are
reflected in the educational programs of the district.
Academic Excellence . . .
- The district's curriculum is
aligned with state standards, developmentally appropriate and sequential
to optimize success of all students.
- The curriculum is rigorous and
challenging.
- Instructional strategies are
researched based on best practices.
- The instructional delivery will
accommodate individual students' strengths and weaknesses.
- Assessment of individual
student achievement will drive the curriculum and the delivery of
instructional strategies.
- The district will use student
performance data to gauge individual student proficiency levels on the
attainment of academic standards.
Discrimination Policy
The
Harmony employees or students who
have an inquiry or complaint of harassment or discrimination, or who need
information about accommodations for persons with disabilities, should contact
the Superintendent.
Persons wishing to receive
additional copies of this publication should contact: Division of Subsidy Data and Administration,
PARENTS / VISITORS
All visitors must sign in at the
office to obtain a visitor’s pass. Please
note that High School visitor passes are good for the High School only; the
same with Elementary passes. Visitors
are not permitted to sign in at one school and use the pass to go between
schools. To ensure the safety of all
students; visitors must have a valid reason before being permitted to enter the
school building. Parents or visitors
wishing to visit a class MUST notify the office for approval so that the
educational process is not being interrupted.
Parent-teacher conferences are also an
important part of the schooling process.
They give the parent and the teacher an opportunity to discuss a child
in whom they have a mutual interest. To
schedule a conference with a teacher on a day not designated as a
Parent/Teacher conference day must contact the elem. office or the guidance
office at the middle school/high school to arrange a suitable time.
REPORTING A PROBLEM
Students – Report
any problems to the teacher in charge; if the teacher cannot help then go to
the Guidance or Principals office.
ADDRESSING PARENT
CONCERNS
At times a parent may have concerns
about one of his or her child’s performance or about a discipline issue. The parent should discuss the issue with the
specific teacher by telephone or in person after making an appointment.
If this telephone conversation or
meeting does not resolve the parent’s concerns, then the parent should go to
the appropriate principal and discuss the issue by telephone or in person after
making an appointment.
HARMONY AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
2008-2009 CALENDAR
2008
Teacher
In-service Aug. 25 & 26
Student First
Day Aug. 27
Labor Day –
School Closed Sept.
1
Progress/Deficiency
Reports due Oct. 1
No School Parent/Teacher
Conf. Oct
13
End of 1st
Marking Period Oct. 29
Report Cards
Distributed Nov. 5
Thanksgiving
Recess Nov.
27 & 28
First Day of
Buck Season Dec. 1
School
Reopens Dec. 2
Progress/Deficiency
Reports due Dec. 4
Holiday
Recess Dec. 24-Jan. 2
2009
School
Reopens Jan. 5
End of 2nd
Marking Period Jan. 15
Report Cards
distributed Jan. 22
No School Feb. 13
No School
Parent/Teacher Conf. Feb. 16
Progress/Deficiency
Reports due Feb. 17
No School March 6
End of 3rd
Marking Period March 24
Report Cards
Distributed March 31
Easter
Break April
9, 10 & 13
School
Reopens April 14
Progress/Deficiency
Reports due April 30
Memorial Day
– No School May
25
Student Last
Day – Early Dismissal May 29
Graduation May 31
Teacher
In-Service June 1
Act 80 Day June 2
Snow Make-up Days Feb. 13
Mar. 6
April 9
April 13
CUSTODY
Students will be released
from school only to parent, legal guardian, or person designated on the Student
Pickup Authorization form distributed at the beginning of the year. If appropriate, copies of custody papers or
other court custody documents MUST be on file in the high school or elementary
offices. Photo identification may be required to pick a student up.
EMERGENCY
PROCEDURES
EMERGENCY CLOSING OF SCHOOL
DO NOT CALL THE SCHOOL
Information regarding
starting time delay or emergency closing of schools will be announced over the
following radio/TV stations:
WKYE (96.5) Key 96
WJAC (87.7) WJAC Radio
WGLU (92.2) U-92
WFGY (98.1)(95.5) Froggy 98, 95
WOKW (102.9) OK 102
WQYX (93.5)
WCPA (am 900)
WTAJ-TV CBS
WJAC-TV NBC Johnstown
In the event of
an actual evacuation – students will be sent home immediately following the
evacuation.
FIRE
DRILLS
The signal for a fire
drill is a series of short clangs from the bell in the halls.
Procedures:
1.
Students will use room exits as indicated by the classroom
teacher.
2.
Students not in assigned area should leave by nearest exit
and stay with teacher you are with at the time.
3.
Students will leave room quickly and quietly. DO NOT PUSH.
4.
When outside, students will move to assigned area to ensure
safety. Students should remain together
under the teacher’s supervision.
5.
Students are to return to their assigned area when directed
to do so.
School are also required to conduct bus
evacuations two (2) times per year, the first bus evacuation will occur during
the first week of each school year and the second shall occur towards the end
of the school year.
SEVERE WEATHER DRILL
When word is received that
severe weather watch drill evacuation is needed, the following procedures will
be used:
1.
An announcement will be made regarding the severe (tornado)
weather watch.
2.
All windows are to be closed and blinds dropped, all lights
and electrical powers turned off, all doors closed.
3.
Students on the second floor will take a position on the
first floor – away from doors and along the hall from room 100 to the
office. Students on the first floor will
take a position along the wall between room 131 and the guidance office.
4.
Students in the computer lab, library, cafeteria and gym
will take positions along the hall walls from the cafeteria to the nurse’s
room.
FLAG SALUTE
It is the responsibility
of every citizen to show proper respect for his country and its flag. Students may decline to recite the Pledge of
Allegiance and may refrain from saluting the flag on the basis of personal
belief or religious convictions.
Students who refrain from such participation shall respect the rights
and interest of classmates who do wish to participate.
HEALTH SERVICES
A full-time school nurse
and on occasion a school physician shall provide health services to all
students.
ACCIDENT / INJURY
Any student who is injured
during the school day must report it to the person in charge and the school
nurse.
EMERGENCY CARE CARDS
The Harmony Area Schools
requires an emergency card to be on file with the school nurse for each
student. Please arrange for a relative,
friend or neighbor to be an emergency contact person and include their
telephone number in the appropriate place on the card. Please notify the school of any changes in
telephone numbers, addresses, contact person, etc.
LOST AND FOUND
Lost articles are to be
turned in to the office lost and found area.
The loser, upon proper identification, may reclaim the article. After a reasonable period of time, unclaimed
articles will be donated to charity.
STUDENT INSURANCE
A
student accident plan is made available to all students during the first few
weeks of the school year. Accident
insurance policies are issued by a private company and made available through
the school as a service to parents.
STUDENT RIGHTS
The Harmony Area S.D.
subscribes to the student bill of rights & responsibilities as stated in
Chapter 12 of the PA School Code. A
complete copy of the student rights & responsibilities are on file in the
H.S. Office.
STUDENT SERVICES
1
GUIDANCE
a)
The efforts of the Guidance Department are directed toward
encouraging students to develop self-knowledge / self-discipline and to define
/ attain educational and vocational goals to the highest degree.
b)
Guidance services focus on providing counseling and
information in the areas of social, educational and emotional development. A student, parent, staff member or counselor
may initiate an interview. Students may
be seen individually or in a group situation.
The counselor is also concerned with student educational placement and
providing orientation programs to facilitate the transition between Elementary,
Middle and Senior High School.
2
GIFTED SUPPORT
a)
A program for students who have been identified by the
school psychologist as mentally gifted.
The teacher, parent, and students to enrich their areas of
exceptionality develop activities.
3
IDEA
a)
A continuum of services is provided for students identified
with social, emotional & learning disabilities. For more information, contact the coordinator
of special services.
4
PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES
a)
The school psychologist serves students who may be referred
by the counselor, teacher or parent for individual testing and/or supportive
individual or group counseling.
5
SPEECH PATHOLOGIST
a)
If a student has difficulty in speech, he/she is assigned
to the speech pathologist that will help him/her overcome poor speech
habits. This is done on an individual or
small group basis. Students may be
recommended by teachers, counselors, and parents or may refer themselves for
help.
6
HARMONY EDUCATION BOOSTERS (HEB)
a)
The objective of HEB is to promote the welfare of all
students through working partnership, parents, educators, and the community at
large.
7
CAFETERIA
a)
This school serves breakfast and lunch. We encourage payments for breakfast and
lunches by the week. Weekly breakfast,
lunch and milk tickets are recorded on rosters for the students. Parents will be informed of the price of
breakfast, lunch and milk. Free and reduced
meals are available. At the beginning of
each school year, parents will receive a letter explaining how the program
operates and who is eligible for free or reduced meals status. If a family’s financial status changes during
the year, contact the Elementary Office.
IF
SCHOOL IS DELAYED FOR ANY REASON, BREAKFAST WILL NOT BE SERVED. A menu will be published weekly in local
newspapers.
8
STUDENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (SAP)
a)
This school provides help to students in need either from
problems in the home or in school.
Trained observers are available to assist the student in getting the
proper help for his/her problem.
FACULTY AUTHORITY
Teachers are authorized to reprimand or correct misbehaving students at
any time or any place during the school day and at any school function or
activity.
LOCKERS Type “A” violation grades 7-12
Lockers are on loan to students by the
school. Each locker has its own
combination lock. Students should not
tell their combination to any other person, or jam their locks to prevent the
normal operation of the locker. Lockers
should be kept locked at all times.
Lockers may be searched by school
officials having reasonable cause.
Searches can be done randomly and periodically. The student may be asked to be present when
practical. No personal locks are
permitted without administrative permission.
Student MUST use
the assigned locker only. No items may
be displayed on the locker. Each student will receive a lock at the beginning
of the year. If lost the student will
pay $5 for replacement.
Locks
are to be properly secured on lockers at all times
NON
SCHOOL SPONSORED EDUCATIONAL/AGRICULTURAL TRIPS
A
student requesting to be excused from school attendance in order to participate
in a non school district sponsored educational and or agricultural trip must
adhere to the following procedures.
1. The pupil’s parents or guardians
must submit a written request for the excuse to the school.
2. School officials will verify the
request and verify that the student will be properly supervised by an adult
acceptable to both the parents or guardian and school officials.
3. School officials will review the
student’s academic and attendance records.
4. Upon approval the student:
a.
will coordinate with his/her teachers on all assignments and
requirements to ensure there is not break in the student’s educational program.
b.
a written report may be required upon his/her return to school. The report will state of what educational
value the trip was to the student.
A maximum of five
educational/agricultural days will be permitted during one school year.
FAMILY VACATIONS
Sharing a family vacation is a great
experience for students. However,
parents and guardians should be aware that, when children miss school for vacations,
one cannot truly measure the impact of lost classroom time even though students
may take along books and complete assignments.
The faculty and administration
encourage family closeness, and we support weekend excursions because they are
excellent learning opportunities. We
wish to ask your cooperation in planning trips so that students do not miss
school. Requests for, and approval of,
vacations during the school year suggests that the issue of school absence for
a trip is acceptable. In fact, we
discourage it and ask that, if at all possible, parents plan vacations so that
children do not miss school. In extreme
circumstances, exceptions are understandable.
One of our goals this year is to reduce absences caused by vacations
scheduled during school time. Please
help us. Family vacations are not allowable educational days and will only be
permitted in extreme cases with prior approval from the principal.
PERSONAL VALUABLES AND MONEY IN SCHOOL
BUILDINGS
All items deemed necessary to carry on
any approved educational program or any other approved program of the school
district will be furnished by the school district, to students, employees, and
to those other personnel using school facilities under rules and regulations
established by the Board of School Directors.
The school will not be responsible
for the personal property of pupils, employees, or other personnel using the
school facilities. Articles of clothing,
jewelry, money, electronic devices and other items of a personal nature are the
responsibility of the student, employee, or person while he or she is in the
school facility.
The school district provides a wall
locker and a gym locker which should be kept
locked at all times. Pupils are
discouraged from keeping any valuable personal items in their lockers.
RESPONSIBILITY FOR SCHOOL PROPERTY
Textbooks are on loan to
students. Until the book is returned to
the instructor, the student is responsible for it. If the book is lost or damaged, the pupil
must cover the cost of the text.
Parents or guardians shall be liable
for school property lost, damaged, defaced, or destroyed by pupils. Proper steps shall be taken to collect the
money for damages.
GRADING GUIDELINES
A Excellent 93-100
B Above
Average 85-92
C Average 75-84
D Below
Average 65-74
F Failure/No
Credit Below 64
I Incomplete
S Satisfactory
U Unsatisfactory
O Outstanding
Incomplete grades MUST be made up ten (10) days after
conclusion of marking period. If work is
not made up, the student will receive an F.
A student who has an “I” recorded on final grades will NOT receive
credit for the class
PROMOTION
Elementary
& Middle school
1
A pupil who has already been retained two times during the
elementary/middle school (K-8) years should ordinarily be promoted to the next
grade.
2
A pupil who has been in the same grade two years should
ordinarily be promoted to the next grade.
3
A student receiving failing grades in two core subjects
will be reason for retention.
Core
Subjects: Language Arts/Reading, Math, Science, and Social Studies
High
School – Grades 9-12:
Students are
classified according to the number of credits they have accumulated. The minimum credits for grade classification
are as follows:
Tenth Grade ------------6.5 credits
Eleventh Grade --------13 credits
Twelfth Grade ----------19.5 credits
GRADUATION
There are two program levels students may pursue leading to
a diploma from
4 Yr. College 2
Yr. College, Tech Prep
CREDITS
English* 4 4
Math 4 3
Science 3 3
Social
Studies 3 3 or 4
Foreign
Lang. 2.0 1.0
Health,
PE, Drivers Ed 2.6 2.6
Keyboarding 0.5 0.5
Electives 6 9 or 7
Graduation 1.0 1.0
Project
26.1 26.1
* Required for grades 9-12
Successful completion of a graduation project is required
for graduation. The graduation project
consists of three components: a project,
an oral presentation, and a written paper/portfolio. Further details can be obtained from the
guidance office
GRADUATION WITH HONORS:
·
GPA of 93% or higher in all courses (3.5)
·
No Final Grade Average lower than 85%
RANKING
Commencing with the class
of 2000, class rank will be determined at completion of grades 10-12. All subjects will be awarded .2 credits for
each meeting period per week up to 1 full credit. Algebra III, Geometry (4 yr), Trigonometry,
Pre Calculus, Foreign Language III, IV, Chemistry, Physics, Microbiology,
Anatomy, Biology, Calculus, Algebra II & college courses will receive 1.5
credits; Accounting I, Foreign Language II & Distant Education courses
beyond regular curriculum will receive 1.2.
HONOR ROLL
Criteria
for inclusion on the Honor Roll:
Distinguished
Honor Roll: 93% or higher in all courses.
Honor
Roll: 85-92% in all classes.
All students in Grades 3,4,5,6,7,8,
and 11 are required to take the PSSA test.
Seniors will not receive a diploma if they do not test at the proficient
or advanced level on the PSSA test, PSSA Grade 12 Retest, or the local
assessment.
STUDENT ACTIVITIES
1
Participation in student activities is a privilege not a
right.
2
Any group desiring to schedule an activity must secure an
“Activity Request” form from the office. The form must be submitted to the
principal for tentative approval.
3
Any student whose behavior in school or on a school
sponsored activity which reflects negatively upon the school, its program, the
student body or the faculty, will be subject to discipline and he/she may lose
all rights to attend future events.
4
There shall be no meetings conducted unless approved by the
office and sponsored by the teacher/advisor.
5
Unless the office grants special permission, student
activities will terminate at:
a)
Ten o’clock if preceding a school day.
b)
Ten-Thirty if preceding a non-school day.
6
All students of Harmony will be admitted at a school
activity at student prices.
7
Administration reserves the right to place a student on an
Activities Suspension at any time
AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES
Participation in school
activities is important for social and cultural development. The guidelines for social events are:
1
Only Harmony students are permitted to attend social
events. A student may bring a guest if
approved by the Student council, principal and or sponsor. Permission slips MUST BE APPROVED 1 WEEK
PRIOR TO THE EVENT.
2
Any students leaving the building without permission will
not be readmitted.
3
Refusal of admittance and rejection from an activity will
be at the discretion of the sponsor, principal and/or security.
4
Administration reserves the right to place a student on an
Activities Suspension at any time
AWARDS
An awards and scholarship
program is sponsored by the school annually.
A complete listing of the awards and scholarships is available in the
office, along with the guidelines for each.
CLASS OFFICERS
Each class
elects a president, vice-resident, secretary, treasurer and Student Council
representatives. Officers who cannot
conform to school rules may be removed from the office they hold by the advisor
or principal.
CLUBS
AND ORGANIZATIONS
Clubs and organizations
are organized to meet particular interests of students or to provide a
particular service to the school.
Students who want a new club may petition the Student Council for
approval of a charter. The petition must
contain the name of the club sponsor & then forwarded to the administration
for approval.
TELEPHONE
Students will not be
called from class to the telephone. If a
message is urgent, it will be delivered to the student. The office phone is a business phone and only
is available to students in extreme emergencies. THE PAY PHONE IS FOR AFTER SCHOOL USE ONLY.
REPORT CARDS
Report cards are sent home
four times yearly at nine-week intervals Deficiencies are sent home in the
middle of the each nine weeks.
Public and Parental Information Notice for Child Find
Public Notice: Screening and
Evaluation
The
Autism
Multiple
Disabilities
Vision
Impairment
Orthopedic
Impairment
Emotional
Disturbance
Specific
Learning Disabilities
Speech
&Language Impairment
Hearing
Impairment
Other
Health Impairment
Mental
Retardation
Traumatic
Brain Injury
Developmental
Delay for Preschool age child
Gifted
If anyone in
the community is aware of a child who is in need of special services and/or
programs, may request screening/evaluation at no expense to the parent or
guardian by contacting The District at 814-845-2300 and by making a written
request to the Coordinator of Special Education.
BELL AND TIME SCHEDULE
MIDDLE & HIGH
SCHOOL
7:15 Faculty arrival and at assigned
areas
7:25 Breakfast – Homeroom (Pd 1
Class)
7:27 Tardy Bell
7:38 Pd 1 Class
8:18 Class Exchange
8:21 Pd 2 Class
9:01 Class Exchange
9:04 Pd 3 Class
9:44 Class Exchange
9:47 Pd 4 Class
10:27 Class Exchange
10:30 Pd 5A Class
Pd
5A Lunch – High School – 10:27-10:57
10:57 Pd 5A Lunch Dismissed
11:00 Pd 5B Class
11:10 Pd 5A Class Dismissed
Pd
5B
11:40 Pd 5B Class & Lunch Dismissed
11:43 Pd 6 Class
12:23 Class Exchange
12:26 Pd 7 Class
1:06 Class Exchange
1:09 Pd 8 Class
1:49 Class Exchange
1:51 Pd 9
2:30 End of Day
2:45 Teachers Dismissed
HALL PASSES
Students will be
issued a hall pass when leaving a room to go to another location by a classroom
teacher. All students, no matter what
the reason, must have a hall pass if in the hall during a class period, with
the exception of a student being called to the office over the PA system. If a student is seen in the hall without a
pass he/she will be escorted back to their scheduled class to investigate why
he/she was not issued a hall pass.
Appropriate discipline will
then be given.
LATE SLIPS
A student late for class, no matter what the amount of time will be issued a late slip. Once a student has accumulated three (3) late slips in a period of two marking periods he/she will serve a detention. If he/she continues to receive additional late slips, within the two marking periods, he/she will serve additional discipline as prescribed in the handbook. At the end of two marking periods the process will start over.
HOMEWORK POLICY
Homework
assignments should complement the school instruction. The assignments should develop student
responsibility, good study habits and organizational skills.
Homework
assignments should:
- Serve as practice and
reinforcement of skills already presented by the teacher
- Broaden areas of interest through
enrichment
- Provide an opportunity for
parents to know their child is studying
- Encourage parent and child
interaction
Homework
assignments should
not:
- Exceed 50% of a students overall
grade for any given grading period
- Be assigned on nights when there
is a school wide event planned
1. (Back to school night, open house, ice
cream social, fair night and middle school orientation)
- Interfere with proper development
of the student’s health
- Be given as a form of punishment
EXCUSE FROM PHYSICAL EDUCATION
CLASS OR DIRECTED ACTIVITY:
When a parent requests
that a student be excused from physical education classes for one day, the
student shall take his/her note directly to guidance Office.
The doctor must complete an adapted
physical education form if the request to be excused from physical education
class is for more than one day.
DISMISSAL
Students in Grades 7 – 12 will report directly to the buses
at the end of the Period 9 @ 2:30. Students are NOT to be in the
halls or at lockers prior to 2:30. BOOKBAGS AND OUTER GARMENTS ARE TO REMAIN IN
THE STUDENT LOCKER UNTIL DISMISSAL.
STUDENT
DRIVING
POLICY
STUDENT DRIVING
All vehicles must be
registered in the office and the driving pass must be displayed on the rear
view mirror during the school day.
Students will be issued an assigned parking space and must park in it at
all times. Please be advised that all
vehicles parked on school property are subject to the canine searches conducted
on school property. Keys must be turned into the high school office prior to first period
and cannot be picked up until busses are loaded at the end of the day. This is to promote safety for student
drivers.
A Drivers permit
costs $5.00 and is non-refundable.
Violation of driving policy will be subject to driving
privilege suspension. Driving privileges
will be suspended for such misconducts as, but not limited to:
a. Reckless
driving in parking lot
b. Reckless
driving around the school bus
c. More
than three tardiness to school
d. Suspensions
from school
e. Loitering
or visiting in the parking lot
f. Illegally
passing school bus constitutes 180 school days loss of driving privilege
ACTION:
First
Offense – 30 school days loss of driving privilege
Second
Offense – 60 school days loss of driving privilege
Third
Offense – 90 school days loss of driving privilege
Fourth
Offense – 180 school days loss of driving privilege
Any student
driving to school and found to be under the influence or in possession of a
controlled substance, alcohol, drug paraphernalia, tobacco products or leaves
school without permission in his/her vehicle will have driving privileges
removed for 180 school
days commencing with the date of the infraction.
The
DISCIPLINE POLICY
FORWARD
The rules presented here reflect the
best efforts of the strategic planning committee, school board, the school
administration, faculty, community and the student body. Our goal in designing rules and consequences
for grades K-12 in one booklet was to help students and parents better
understand and support the discipline system at Harmony.
Our united goal is that each student
develops self-discipline, and that these guidelines will provide a basis for
that development. With this goal in
mind, the school rules will be rigorously enforced.
Pride, Respect, and Cooperation . . .
The district
employees and board of directors will model pride in all programs offered,
respect for difference
and
cooperation in all interaction.
TO
THE PARENTS AND STUDENTS
Education is a cooperative
enterprise. It requires the constant
effort of parents, school, and students.
Your child’s school experience cannot hope to be the best possible
without the constant cooperative work of all three—the parents, the school and
the student. Cooperation is the key to
making the process work.
PARENTS—Encourage regular school
attendance. Familiarize yourself with
the curriculum and know what courses your child is taking. Encourage good study practices by providing
an appropriate time and place to study.
Become involved in all aspects of your child’s education.
Feel free to visit your child’s
school to discuss your child’s progress with teachers, counselors, and
administration. Acquaint yourself with
the contents of this booklet and feel free to contact the school at any time.
STUDENTS—Familiarize
yourself with the rules contained in this booklet. Work hard and try to better yourself in all
aspects of your education. Remember,
your education is the reason we have schools.
You and you alone can make the difference between obtaining a quality
education or just putting in time.
The Administration
Discipline
is not a punitive process, but rather an integral part of the learning process
STUDENT
CODE OF CONDUCT
Students
should:
1. Attend school regularly.
2. Make a conscientious effort in all
assigned classroom work.
3. Create a climate within the school
that is provides a safe and orderly learning environment.
4. Be aware of all rules and
regulations for student behavior and conduct themselves accordingly.
5. Dress and groom according to the dress
code.
6. Be aware of and comply with state
and local laws.
7. Protect and take care of school
property.
8. Refrain from the use of indecent or
obscene language.
No
Student has the right to interfere with the education of his/her fellow
students. It is the responsibility of
each student to respect the rights of teachers, students, staff,
administrators, and all others who are involved in the educational process.
CONSEQUENCES OF INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR
TYPES OF VIOLATIONS
All behavior will be listed under one
of the three types of behavior, depending on the severity of the incident.
Type “A” violations are those incidents of lowest level of severity.
Type “B” violations are those incidents of moderate severity.
Type “C” violations are those incidents of highest severity.
TYPE
“A” VIOLATIONS – Steps of discipline
Note –A detention unit is defined as one
detention after school. Elementary
students may be assigned a detention during the morning or during lunch as well
as after-school detention. Parents will
be notified either in writing, by phone call or both. Students assigned after-school detention must
be picked up by a parent or guardian at the conclusion of the detention.
Step
1 Classroom
teacher(s) action must include up to three corrective actions one of which must
be a documented parental contact.
Step 2 One detention assigned.
Step 3 Two detentions assigned.
Step
4 Three detentions assigned – Parent
contact/conference is required at this step.
Step 5 Students
in all grades will move to step 1 of Type “B” violations and
Receive
step 1 consequences.
TYPE
“B” VIOLATION – Steps of discipline
Parents will be notified
and involved at every step in the process.
Students suspended, either ISS or OSS will be excluded from
participation in extra curricular activities starting the day of the suspension
until the conclusion of the suspension.
Step
1 One day ISS/OSS (In-School
Suspension/Out-of-School Suspension assigned at administrators discretion)
Step 2 Up to three days ISS/OSS
Step
3 Three
days ISS/OSS
Step
4 Three
to five days ISS/OSS Parent
contact/conference is required when a student is involved in a Level B Step
4 and alternative intervention strategies may be considered.
Step
5 Five to seven days OSS Parent
contact/conference is required. Students assigned to five or more days of
OSS may be offered after school alternative education during the days of the
suspension. Parents will be responsible
for transportation to and from school.
Step 6
Up
to ten days OSS. Possible expulsion proceeding may be initiated. Parent contact/conference
is required. After school
alternative education placement will be required at the discretion of
administration rather than expulsion.
Step 7
Students
in all grades will move to step 1 of Type “C” violations and receive step 1
consequences.
TYPE
“C” VIOLATIONS – Steps of discipline.
Parents
will be notified and involved at every step in the process.
Step
1 Immediate expulsion proceeding
initiated referred to Superintendent. Parent
conference required.
Any combination of
the above types of violations and their consequences is at the discretion of
the administration.
DETENTION
1.
After
School Detention will be held in a designated area at a designated time two
days a week for a period of 60 minutes.
Elementary students may be assigned a lunch or recess detention in place
of an after school detention.
2.
Notice
will be given allowing time for parents to make arrangements for transportation.
3.
Each
student assigned detention is expected to bring work of a school nature to the
detention room.
4.
Students
must make up missed detention within one week of the initial date(s) assigned
by the administration. Failure to do so may result in having to make up the
date(s) missed plus an addition of the next disciplinary step under Type “A”
violations. Repeated failure to complete
detentions will result in moving to Type “B” consequences.
IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION (ISS)
- ISS
shall be held during the regular school day.
- Each
student assigned in In-School Suspension is expected to bring work of a
school nature to the suspension room.
Additionally, students will be responsible for notifying their
teachers of upcoming suspension dates.
- Each
student assigned to suspension will be assigned work every period during
each day of In-School Suspension.
- Students
assigned to In-School Suspension shall not be allowed to mingle with the
rest of the school population except during the morning homeroom
period. Students must eat lunch
separately from the rest of the school population.
- Students
assigned to ISS/OSS shall be suspended from all after school activities,
extracurricular activities, trips, conferences, etc. Student’s assigned suspensions will be
listed on the daily bulletin as either ISS or OSS.
AFTER SCHOOL/ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION
- After
School/Alternative Education shall normally be held after regular school
hours on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday evenings during the regular
school year when the need arises.
- Each
student assigned after school alternative education is expected to bring
work of school nature to the after school room.
- Students
will cooperate with the after school alternative education teacher.
- Students
may not attend any extra curricular school activities while assigned to
after school alternative education.
ACTIVITIES SUSPENSION
Participation in extra-curricular
activities is a privilege and not a right. In certain situations, the
Administration may revoke or suspend a student’s participation in
extra-curricular activities.
- Each
student assigned activities suspension may not participate in any
practices.
- Each
student assigned activities suspension may not participate in any games,
dances, or other school sponsored events.
Examples include, but are not limited to, field trips, prom and
graduation.
CORPORAL PUNISHMENT
Reasonable
force may be used by teachers and school authorities:
(1)
to
quell a disturbance
(2)
to
obtain possession of weapons or other dangerous objects
(3)
for
the purpose of self-defense
(4)
for
the protection of persons or property
Please
note that reasonable force in any other circumstance is not recommended given
the fact that corporal punishment has been omitted as an acceptable practice in
schools.
SPECIAL NEEDS STUDENTS
Any time suspension or expulsion is a
possible disciplinary action for a special needs student, the Director of
Special Education will be consulted in all decisions to guarantee that the
students’ rights and needs are adequately protected.
INFRACTIONS
OTHER INAPPROPRIATE ACTIONS
Type “A” or “B” or “C” grades K-12
No
written code could cover all possible contingencies.
This handbook is meant as a guideline and may be augmented or adapted by the principal when in his/her own
professional judgment, the situation merits it.
In all cases, the principal or his/her designee will assign disciplinary
procedures to ultimately benefit the individual student in developing
self-discipline and to benefit the student body as a whole. At all times, the safety of all students and
the educational process will be the ultimate concern.
INAPPROPRIATE HALLWAY BEHAVIORS
Type “A” MINOR INFRACTIONS grades K-12
Type
“B” MAJOR INFRACTIONS grades 7-12
Students are expected to move from
classroom to classroom in an orderly manner.
Any behavior which impedes progress of students in the hallway and/or
creates a noise disturbance will be considered inappropriate. For example – PDA (Public Displays of
Affection) and loud and/or inappropriate language would fit under this
category.
DISTRIBUTION OF LITERATURE
Type “A” MINOR INFRACTIONS grades K-12
Type
“B” MAJOR INFRACTIONS grades 7-12
It shall be prohibited to use the
schools as a distribution medium disseminating literature or survey forms for
partisan, sectarian, or political organizations of any kind. However, upon the approval of the building
principal in consultation with the Superintendent, there may be distribution of
information pertaining to the community welfare. Students failing to comply
with these official board policies will be subject to disciplinary procedures.
TOBACCO USE and/or POSSESSION (Look alike
products included)
Type “B” violation K-12
Possession or use of tobacco within
the school area is prohibited. The
possession and use of tobacco by a minor is a violation of Section 3602-3504 of
the School Law of Pennsylvania; consequently, the possession or use of any form
of tobacco is not permitted at school sponsored activities.
Under appropriate Pennsylvania Statues,
the administration retains the right to prosecute students in possession and/or
use of tobacco at any point along with assigning Type “B” consequences.
OPEN CONTAINERS Type
“A” violation K-12
No open containers are permitted in
the school outside of the cafeteria during the school day.
This
includes pop cans, water bottles, juice bottles, etc…
FIGHTING
Type “A” violation grades K-4
Type
“B” violation grades 5-12
The verbal abuse or physically
aggressive contact between students will be deemed as fighting. All parties involved will be discipline in
the same manner unless investigation reveals the aggressive behavior was
displayed by only one party. Retaliation will be punishable under this
regulation.
Leaving the building without permission;
cutting school.
Type “A” violation grades K-4
Type “B” violation
grades 5-12
Disruption of normal school operations, other
than fighting.
Type “A” violation grades K-4
Type “B” violation
grades 5-12
Flagrant disrespectful behavior (cussing,
yelling, disruption of class, throwing objects) toward any member of the staff.
Type “A” violation grades K-6
Type “B” violation
grades 5-12
Violence or aggressive behavior (hitting,
punching, shoving, spitting) directed toward any person on school district
property.
Type “B” violation grades K-12
(minimum consequences)
Type “C” if
conditions warrant.
False Fire Alarms Type
“A” violation K-2
Type
“B” violation 3-12
Abusive language or gestures
Type “A” violation minor infraction
K-12
Type
“B” violation major infraction 7-12
Cheating Type “A” violation K-2
Type
“B” violation 3-12
Summary Crimes listed in the PA Crimes Code
Type “B” Step 3 K-12
Misdemeanor Crimes listed in the PA Crimes
Code
Type “B” Step 4 K-12
Felony Crimes listed in the PA Crimes Code
Type
“B” Step 6 K-12
Dress
Guide
TYPE “A” MINOR INFRACTIONS GRADES K-12
TYPE
“B” MAJOR INFRACTIONS GRADES 7-12
THE GUIDELINES FOR
SCHOOL DRESS:
1.
All
clothing must be worn in the manner for which it is designed.
2.
Clothing
Tops
a.
The
district prohibits pictures, emblems or writings on clothing that are lewd,
offensive, vulgar, obscene, or that advertises or depicts tobacco products,
alcoholic beverages, or drugs; the district also prohibits any clothing or
grooming that in the principal’s judgment may reasonably be expected to cause
disruption of or interference with normal school operations.
b.
No
spaghetti straps, strapless tops, mesh tops or shirts that have the arms cut
out exposing the underarm area
c.
Shirts
must cover the mid-drift area
3.
Clothing
Bottoms
a.
Modest
skirts, shorts, culottes, and skorts are permitted at fingertip length.
b.
Pants,
slacks and/or jeans should not have holes above the mid thigh.
4.
Hats,
bandanas, or any other types of head coverings are prohibited in the building,
except on special days established by the administration.
5.
Shoes
or sandals are to be worn at all times.
6.
Chains
except those worn as reasonable jewelry items are not permitted
7.
OUTERWEAR
– Heavy Outerwear items are those that may be worn due to weather conditions or
for personal comfort. Clothing that
meets the Code of Dress requirements described above must be worn under any
item of outerwear. Students will be
asked to store heavy outerwear after arriving at school. Any long, overly loose fitting outwear cannot
be worn if it interferes or causes a distraction in the school environment or
hinders a child’s participation in school functions and activities.
(Clothing that causes disruption to
the educational process or can be considered a safety hazard can be prohibited
at the discretion of the principal)
School Dress code must be followed during the
school day as well as after school activities sponsored by the school.
LUNCH PERIOD
Type “A” violation grades K-12-minor
cases
Type
“B” violation grades K-12-major cases
The cafeteria serves as the students’
dining room. Therefore, you are asked to
observe the proper standards of cleanliness and courtesy. Before leaving the cafeteria, place waste
paper and milk containers in the proper receptacle. All utensils are to be properly returned.
No food is to be taken from the
cafeteria.
Food may be purchased only during a
student’s designated lunch period.
All areas except for the cafeteria are
off-limits during lunch periods unless otherwise designated by the administration
or designee.
All students are to remain in the
cafeteria during their lunch periods unless otherwise directed.
All cafeteria materials should be
used in the appropriate manner.
No food should be thrown at any
time.
Noise should be kept at an
acceptable level.
Students may bring a lunch from home
but must eat it in the cafeteria.
Students should be in the cafeteria
at designated times.
INTERNET/NETWORK USE
Type “A” violation grades K-12-minor cases
Type
“B” violation grades K-12-major cases
The use of the Harmony Area network
services and the Internet is a privilege,
not a right. Inappropriate use will
result in a cancellation of those privileges and possible disciplinary
action. Each student is required to sign
an acceptable use policy on the proper use of network privileges. The principals will deem what is inappropriate
use, and their decision is final.
CELL PHONES AND OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Type “A” violation grades K-12minor
cases
Type “B” violation grades K-12-major cases
Cell phones and all other electronic devices are
permitted to be used before and after school only. Beginning with first period these items must
remain in the student’s locker and may not be visible during the school day.
Items may be confiscated and not returned until a parent conference is held.
PARTICIPATION IN GRADUATION CEREMONY
Type “B” violation grade 12
Seniors are reminded that the graduation
ceremony is a school activity, and as such, is a privilege rather than a
right. Since the graduation ceremony is
a school activity, a senior may be restricted from participating in the
graduation ceremony under the following conditions:
1.
If
the senior is given a suspension which carries a suspension from activities
that extends through graduation day or if the terms of suspension itself
carries through graduation day
2.
If
all obligations, monetary and academic, are not taken care of by the day prescribed
prior to graduation day.
3.
If
the senior does not participate in all practices for graduation unless
personally excused by the principal.
4.
If
the seniors’ behavior during graduation practices is such to merit a suspension
in the principal’s judgment.
Note: The Superintendent, in consultation with the
building principal, the Board of Directors Discipline Committee, and the
Building Discipline Committee reserves the right to evaluate and/or develop
disciplinary consequences for specific incidents.
SCHOOL TARDINESS AND TARDINESS TO CLASS
Type “A” violation grades
K-12
Punctuality and promptness are two of
the most worthwhile habits a person can establish. Employers seldom tolerate continual tardiness
by an employee. The school also must run
on a regular established schedule and constant tardiness cannot be
permitted. A student who arrives after
the scheduled starting times will be considered tardy.
1.
Students
who arrive at school tardy must report directly to the office (or attendance
station) as soon as they enter the building.
The student will sign in at the office (or attendance station) and
receive an admit-to-class slip. Students
are reminded that work missed during an illegal or unlawful tardy shall
constitute a failure for that time period.
2.
A
record of tardiness is kept on each student.
When a total of four unexcused offenses are recorded, a student will be
placed on the appropriate step of Type “A” infractions for each infraction
thereafter.
3.
The
same reasoning and procedures apply to tardiness to class. Three minutes are allotted for movement from
one class period to another. The teacher
is responsible for punctuality of the students.
On the fourth unexcused offense, the student should be reported to the
office. A student will be placed on the
appropriate step Type “A” infraction for each infraction thereafter during a
two semester period of time.
Skipping Classes - Type “A” violation grades K-12
Unauthorized class meetings, parties, group
“get togethers,” during school hours Type “A” violation grades K-12
Students leading or inciting others to
participate in authorized meetings and/or other actions –
Type “B” violation grades
K-12
Stealing - Type “A” violation minor cases grades
K-12
Type “B” violation major cases grades
K-12
Administrator
will add the cost of the vandalism, and may also add
community service to the consequences.
SCHOOL
OR BUS VANDALISM
Type “A” violation minor cases grades
K-12
Type
“B” violation major cases grades K-12
Administrator will add the cost of the
vandalism and may also add community service to the consequences.
BEHAVIOR
ON SCHOOL BUSES
The school bus is an extension of school property and all
school rules should be adhered to. The
bus driver must keep his/her attention upon the highway and the operation of
the bus. Drivers cannot jeopardize the
safety of all students because of the behavior of a few. Therefore, the following regulations shall be
strictly enforced.
1. Observe the same conduct as in class.
2. Obey the bus driver at all times.
3. Be courteous – do not use profane
language.
4. Don’t eat/drink on the bus.
5. Keep bus clean – not littering.
6. Do not smoke or chew tobacco
7. Do not be destructive
8. Do not use drugs.
9. Stay in your assigned seat.
10. Keep head and arms inside the bus at
all times.
11. Do not throw things on or from the bus.
The following bus
disciplinary procedures are applicable to all the Elementary, Middle School,
and High School students. Principals
have the authority to exercise discretionary judgment in enforcing the
following penalties or to deviate from steps depending on the severity of the
infraction.
STEP 1: Formal warning (screened by bus contractor)
STEP 2: 1 day of bus suspension
STEP 3: 3 days of bus suspension
STEP 4: 5 days of bus suspension
STEP 5: 10 days of bus suspension
STEP 6: Student will enter Level B Step 2 of the Discipline Code;
minimum
discipline will be 3 days of ISS. Continued
bus suspensions are an option.
STEP 7: Student will continue to progress to the next step on Type B
level of
discipline scale. Continued bus
suspensions are an
option.
If a student is assigned
a bus suspension, it is the parents’ responsibility to see that their child
gets to school on time. Missed days
without a Doctors excuse will be counted as unexcused days.
Middle
School/High School students are not permitted to ride the Elementary bus to
prevent from being tardy.
ATHLETES’ CONDUCT
- Sportsmanship
is a most important asset and one of the main reasons for sponsoring a
complete athletic program. The best
in sportsmanship from students and coaches in victory or defeat is
expected.
- Conduct
in school should be above reproach.
Athletes are expected to be school leaders and examples. Failure to abide by school rules and
regulations may lead to suspension of athletic eligibility.
- An
athlete determined to be using tobacco in any form will be suspended from
the team for one week on the first offense, a second offense will result
in suspension from the team for two weeks.
Any further offenses may lead to dismissal from the team.
- Any
athlete determined to be using or in the possession of alcoholic beverages
or drugs will be suspended from the team for a minimum of two weeks and
face possible dismissal from the team.
- When
visiting another school, exemplary conduct and courtesy are expected of
every athlete.
- Any
damage to the physical property of this school or an opponent’s school can
lead to dismissal from the team and reparation for the damages.
- Any
disrespect, disobedience, or hostility to members of any opponents’
professional staff can lead to dismissal from the team. This also applies to officials of the
game.
- Each
student has a responsibility to fulfill in representing Harmony as a
participant in any activity.
Cooperation and personal honor are important.
- Full
day (all periods) attendance is required, unless excused for travel or by
a Dr. Excuse (Dr. Excuse’s must be cleared with the principal prior to a
game/activity). Excuses must be
turned in to the attendance office after acquiring the Principals
approval/signature.
ATHLETES’ DRESS
REQUIREMENTS
- Any
student traveling with any Harmony athletic team shall be required to
dress neatly and appropriately. The
individual coach will determine appropriate dress for the trip.
- Any
student failing to meet the dress requirements may be denied the
opportunity to participate in the athletic event.
- The
athletic director, the coach, and/or principal will be responsible for
seeing that the athletic dress requirements are met.
STUDENT DISCIPLINE RECORD
A record is maintained of each student
referred to the office for disciplinary reasons. This record is not a part of your
permanent record and will be discarded after graduation. This record does not follow the student after
graduation, but it may follow the student from school to school prior to
graduation.
The School District has certain
obligations to report infractions involving violations of Ac 26/The Weapons
Policy. The following Safe School
guidelines itemize the obligations imposed on Harmony Area School District
through the Safe Schools Act. In
addition, students transferring into the School District will be required to
complete an Act 26 Sworn Affidavit confirming whether or not the student is
leaving the current school district due to an infraction in violation of Act
26.
ACT 26
Safe School
Guidelines
WHEREAS,
the legislature has passed a new “Safe Schools” law, 24 PA. STAT. ANN. §§
13-1317.2 et. Seq., 13-1301 A, et. Seq.,
for the purpose of providing a safe educational environmental
Pennsylvania Schools:
A.
The
Harmony School District has adopted an extensive Weapons Policy.
B.
Reporting Provisions: The District has the right to immediately
report all incidents involving the possessions of a weapon to local law enforcement officials.
1.
Reporting
to the Local Law Enforcement Agency shall be made in accordance with a written
procedure developed as a joint project with the law enforcement agency. 24 PA. STAT. ANN § 13-1303-A © (1995).
2.
The
District shall report to the State Department
of Education, on a semi-annual basis, all incidents or acts of violence or
prohibited possession of a weapon under this policy. These reports shall include:
a.
The
student’s name, address, age and grade;
b.
The
circumstance surrounding the incident, including type of weapon;
c.
The
sanction imposed by the school;
d.
The
notification of law enforcement;
e.
The
remedial programs involved;
f.
The
parental involvement required;
g.
Any
arrests, adjudications, or convictions, if known. 24 PA STAT. ANN. § 13-1303
(A) (B) (1995).
C.
Affidavit of Parent
Guardian. The District shall, prior to the registration
of any student, obtain from the student’s parent/guardian an affidavit
detailing any suspensions or expulsions from any school system in the U.S.
which were the result of violence or the possession of a weapon. 24 PA. STAT. ANN. § 13-1304 (A) (1995).
D.
Transfer of
Disciplinary Record: The District shall request the disciplinary
records of any student transferring into the District. The District shall comply with all requests
to send disciplinary records of any student transferring out of the District to
that student’s new district. Said
requests shall be honored within 10 days.
24 PA. STAT. ANN. § 13-1306 (A) (1995).
E.
Availability of
Records: Records created under this policy will be
available for inspection to the student and his parent/guardian, other persons
having control or charge of the student, school officials, and state and local
law enforcement officials as provided by law.
24 PA. STAT. ANN. § 113-1306-A (1995).
Available records include:
1.
A
statistical summary of acts of violence on a school-by-school and a
district-wide basis. 24 PA. STAT. ANN. § 13-1307-A (1995).
2.
The
disciplinary records of any student will be available to that student and his
guardian. 24 PA. STAT. ANN. § 13-1306-A
(1995).
PARENT CONFERENCE
FORM
LEVEL B
– Step 3
At the time of the conference, the parent(s)
will be asked to sign the statement below to affirm that the conference was
held and that they are aware of the consequences of any subsequent
offense. A copy of the discipline scale
may also be given to the parent(s).
I/We attest that a parental conference was
held to provide information about the disciplinary record of my/our child.
I/We were informed of the potential of my/our
son/daughter being denied the privilege of participating in graduation
ceremonies should any discipline be received by the high school office during
the last thirty days of the school year.
I/We were also informed that subsequent discipline
referrals prior to the last thirty days may jeopardize my/our son/daughter’s
privilege to participate in graduation ceremony due to the length of activity
suspension written in the discipline policy.
________________________________ ___________________________________ Student Parent
________________________________ ____________________________________
Parent Date
________________________________
Principal
pc: Superintendent
WEAPONS POLICY
WEAPONS POLICY AND
PROCEDURES
Type “C” grades K-12
PURPOSE:
In accordance with 24 P.S. 13-1317.2, possession of a weapon on school
property must result in a mandatory minimum of one (1) year expulsion, unless
reduced by the Superintendent of the school district. These procedures are
established by the Harmony Area School District in order to protect against
violence, personal injury, property damage and to instill a sense of safety and
security for those who participate in school district activities and/or make
use of school district facilities.
- VIOLATION: No person shall possess, handle,
transport, use, discharge, manufacture, make, remake, assemble, sell,
distribute, or transfer any weapon or ammunition while in any school
building, on any school premises, on any school bus or other conveyance
providing transportation to or from school building or activity of the
Harmony Area School District, at any school activity or function, whether
sponsored by the school district or not, or, in the case of students,
while coming to or going from school or school activities.
- VIOLATION: In addition, no person shall knowingly
possess any weapons or ammunition at a place that the individual knows,
or has reasonable cause to believe, is a school zone in the Harmony Area
School District. This section
shall not apply to the possession of a weapon:
a.
on
private property not part of the school grounds;
by an individual for use
in…
b.
a
program approved by the school district in the school zone;
c.
by
an individual in accordance with a contract entered into with the school
district; or…
d.
by
a law enforcement officer acting in his or her official capacity.
- VIOLATION: In addition, no person shall knowingly
and with reckless disregard for the safety of themselves or another,
discharge or attempt to discharge a weapon, detonate an explosive,
discharge a chemical deterrent at a place that the person knows is a
school zone, unless as follows:
a.
as
part of a program approved by the school district;
b.
by
an individual in accordance with a contract entered into by the school
district; or
c.
by
a law enforcement officer acting in his or her official capacity.
- RESPONSIBLE ACTIONS: School district employees and students
observing or otherwise becoming aware of weapons and or ammunition on
school premises, at school activities, on school buses or their
conveyances, or of persons violating this procedure, shall report the
same to a school district teacher or administrator as soon as possible. Any teacher who obtains such a report
shall immediately notify his/her principal, or in his/her absence, the
principal’s designee. Any
administrator obtaining such information shall immediately notify the
Superintendent, or in his or her absence, the Superintendent’s designee.
- INVESTIGATION PROCEDURES: Every school employee and/or student
who has knowledge of a weapon being on or in school property without
proper clearance shall immediately inform the principal, who will
immediately conduct an investigation.
A student who has knowledge of a weapon being in or on school
property shall be subject to disciplinary proceedings if the student does
not timely report the same.
Based upon reasonable grounds to
suspect that a student possesses a weapon, the principal, or his designee, will
request that the student voluntarily empty his/her pockets, and remove any
coat, book bag, or purse so the same may be searched by a school official. (It is noted that Rules and Regulations of
the State Board of Education provide that reasonable force may be used by
teachers and school authorities to obtain possession of weapons or other
dangerous objects if deemed necessary or reasonable.)
If the student resists such a
voluntary search, the principal or school official shall immediately summon the
police and request assistance. The parent or guardian of the student shall
likewise be notified. Upon the
police appearing, under no circumstances shall the school official act as the
student’s informed adult in regard to any Miranda Warnings.
The school shall also follow the above
procedures for student locker searches.
If a weapon is found or confiscated,
the principal shall immediately summon the police, the Superintendent (or his
designee if the Superintendent is not available), and the parents or guardians
of the student involved.
- DISCIPLINE: The following discipline procedures
shall be followed by the administration.
A.
Notification
of the student concerning the violation(s)
B.
Notification
of the Superintendent or his designee
C.
Notification
of student’s parents
D.
Establishing
whether or not the student has an IEP
E.
Notification
of the police, if deemed necessary
F.
Assignment
of discipline – 3 days out of school suspension (A “N.O.R.E.P.” or Notice of
Recommended Educational Placement for special education students may be
necessary)
G.
Informal
hearing with administration, parent(s), and students
H.
Assignment
of discipline – 10 days out of school suspension (A “N.O.R.E.P.” may be
necessary)
I.
Notification
of the Board of School Directors
J.
Notification
of the student and parent(s) of their right to a formal hearing before the
Board of School Directors as part of the Due Process Procedure
K.
The
Board may assign an expulsion from school for a period of one calendar year
from date of infraction. (A “N.O.R.E.P.”
may be necessary.)
Expulsions
must be scheduled pursuant to the Pennsylvania School Code and applicable Rules
and Regulations of the State Board of Education.
7. DEFINITIONS.
As used in this procedure.
A. The term “person”
includes any individual, including student and school districts employees,
corporation, company, association, firm, partnership, society, or joint stock
company. The term “person” shall not
include law enforcement officials while on duty as law enforcement official or
security personnel retained by the school district and on duty with the school
district.
B. The term “weapon” includes, by way
of example and not limited to:
1. any knife, cutting instrument, or
cutting tool (special consideration may be granted to pocket knives under a
blade length of four inches)
2. nun – chuck sticks
3. handgun, shotgun, or rifle,
including center-fire, rim-fire and muzzle loading firearms
4. air, CO²
and/or spring action
pellet, BB, and/or dart guns
5. traditional long bows, recurve
bows, compound bows, and/or crossbows
6. spear or dart
propelling devices including blow guns
7. electric stun guns and
cattle prods
8. chemically disabling sprays or
propellants (a.k.a. mace and pepper spray)
9.brass knuckles, black jacks, and
martial arts devices
10. any other tool, instrument, or
implement capable of inflicting bodily injury or property damage
11. and shall include any item that is
represented to be a weapon or that is threatened to be used as a weapon
SPECIAL
NOTE: Under special circumstances this definition
may be expanded to include an object that has the appearance or characteristics
of a weapon, such as toy guns, water pistols, etc. This clause is at the sole responsibility of
the Superintendent or his designee.
C. The term “firearm” means (1) any
weapon (including a starter gun) which will, or is designed to, or may readily
be converted to expel a projectile by the action of any chemical explosive,
compressed gas, mechanical spring and/or elastic device; (2) the frame or
receiver of any such weapon; and/or (3) any firearm muffler or firearm
silencer.
D.
The term “destructive device” means (1) any bomb or device that is
explosive and/or incendiary in nature, or (2) any type of weapon by whatever
name known which will, or which may be readily converted to, expel a projectile
by the action of an explosive, other propellant, and/or mechanical means which
has any barrel with a bore. (Items
traditionally classified as firecrackers may be included or excluded under this
definition as the sole discretion of the Superintendent or, in the absence of
the Superintendent, his designee.)
E.
The term “school zone” means in, or on the grounds of any of the
buildings or schools owned by the Harmony Area School District.
F.
Possession means being on the person of the student, in the student’s
locker, in a vehicle operated by the student, and/or otherwise under his or her
control.
8. PRESS
RELEASE: The Superintendent or
designee shall formulate a press release if deemed appropriate.
DRUG & ALCOHOL
POLICY
ALCOHOL, DRUGS AND
CONTROLLED SUSTANCES,
LOOK ALIKE SUBSTANCES
AND SOLVENTS
This policy and its associated
guidelines are an effort by the school district to respond effectively to the
potential and current use and abuse of alcohol and drugs by members of its
school population.
For purposes of this policy,
"substance" shall include any alcohol or malt beverage, any drug
listed in Act 64 (1972) as a controlled substance, any chemical, any abused
substance or any medication for which prescription is required under the law
and/or any substance which is intended to alter mood. Any prescribed medication
must be taken directly to the nurse upon arrival at school and he/she will
disperse as per the prescription and notate in the student's health record in
accordance with the school district's policy for the administration of
medication to students in school.
The school district will work
through curriculum and classroom activity, administrative and faculty effort
and disciplinary procedures to prevent and intervene in the use or abuse of
substance by members of the school population.
As an extension of this policy, the
following school guidelines shall be used, with reasonable judgment, when
responding to drug and alcohol or other substance related situations.
These guidelines have been created
as one part of this policy. They are intended to provide a consistent means for
effectively responding to alcohol, drug, and other substance related situations
that may occur at school or at school sponsored events. They have been written
with due consideration for the legal rights and responsibilities of
administrators, faculty, students, and parents who may find themselves involved
in such situations.
Situations wherein a student
demonstrates obvious symptoms of possible substance use (staggering, slurred
speech, dazed appearance, incoherence, inability to respond) or possession of
drugs or alcohol shall generally be handled according to the procedures of this
policy and as a health problem and potential emergency. Situations regarding
sale, exchange, transportation, or delivery of substances will also generally
be handled according to the procedures established in this policy.
Immediate
Action: The school employee shall summon the principal or authorized
delegate. All standard first aid and health procedures will be followed. The
student shall not be left alone. The school nurse shall be summoned
immediately. If the student must be taken to a medical facility, the principal
or authorized delegate will accompany him.
Investigation:
If substance use, possession or sale is indicated, the principal or
authorized delegate shall be responsible for all necessary investigation. This
investigation may include a search of the student and locker and removal of apparent
substance. All due process procedures will be afforded the student and all
district policies will be followed.
Notification of Parent: Administrative staff will attempt to
immediately contact parents if no answer will leave message to contact the school
ASAP.
Confidentiality: Laws related to confidentiality will
be upheld.
Notification of Police: school personnel shall notify police
when the student possesses or sells the substance in question.
Disposition of Substances: All substances discovered at the
scene or subsequently uncovered shall be turned over by the school principal or
authorized delegate to medical personnel or to the proper legal authorities for
identification and aid in the treatment of the emergency.
Discipline:
I. 1st Offense – For Use or
Possession of Substances or Any Offense for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia: The student will be suspended for
ten (10) school days, subject to possible expulsion. Students Must complete the following
procedures:
a.
Must
be evaluated by licensed drug and alcohol assessor at the student or parents’
expense.
b.
Must
follow any recommendations from the facility or assessor and must sign a
release allowing the facility or assessor to release information to the school.
c.
Must
sign a behavior contract with the school and follow all the rules.
II. 2nd Offense – For Use or
Possession of Substances or Any Offense for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia: The student will be suspended for ten
(10) school days with a possible additional 35 school days totaling 45 days, may
be subject to possible expulsion. The
administration will refer the student to the school board judiciary
committee. The administration will
consider the following in making its recommendation:
a.
The
students discipline record
b.
Students
Attendance
c.
If
the student enrolls in and is successfully proceeding with a licensed drug and
alcohol program.
III. 1st Offense – For
Policy for screening a student
thought to be under the influence of illegal drugs, alcohol, or other illegal
mind-altering substances.
If
a staff member suspects that a student is under the influence of illegal
drugs, alcohol, or other illegal mind-altering substances, the staff
member should notify the school nurse, guidance counselor, school
administration and document their observations of the student. The school nurse will conduct a preliminary physical
examination to ascertain if the said student is likely to be under the
influence. The Principal and/or Guidance
Counselor will be summoned to the Health Office immediately. Attempts will be made to notify the
parent. If, in the opinion of the school
nurse and/or Principal/Guidance Counselor, there is a reasonable suspicion that
the student is under the influence, the student will be required to submit to a
drug/alcohol screening at the expense of the
If
a parent chooses to challenge and/or validate the District’s drug screening
then the parent may do so at their
expense. The school district will
consider such independent test only if:
A. The student is tested within one (1)
hour of the school’s test being administered.
B. The results of the test are released
to the school district.
C. A certified chemical lab expert in
drug testing or a hospital laboratory where drug testing is routinely
performed.
SEARCHES
AND SEIZURES
The Harmony
Area School District Board of Directors recognizes that students have the right
to privacy and freedom from unreasonable searches and seizures with regard to
their persons, storage facilities (desks, lockers, etc.) and personal
belongings. However, the Board also recognizes that it is the responsibility of
school authorities to protect and maintain the health, welfare, and safety of
all students. It is also the responsibility of students to assist the school
staff in operation a safe school for all students.
All staff
will respect students’ rights in terms of freedom from unreasonable searches
and seizures.
Use of all storage
facilities, which are the property of the
Students must
recognize that school authorities have the right to search person, personal
belongings and storage facilities and to seize any materials that can endanger
the health, welfare, and/or safety of individuals in the school.
GUIDELINES
The search
must be reasonably related in scope to the circumstances that justify the
search. Searchers should be no more
intrusive than necessary to discover that for which the search was instigated.
School
officials should not conduct a search that would require a student to remove
more clothing than his/her shoes or jacket.
If school officials determine that a more intrusive strip search is
required to explore contraband, they should advise the proper law enforcement
agency and the student’s parent or guardian, as soon as possible, of the
grounds for their decision prior to any action being taken. The police would conduct a strip search.
When
school authorities have reasonable suspicion that a student has on his/her
person materials which pose a threat to the health, welfare, and safety of
students in the school, a pat-down search of the student’s person may be done
by a school official of the same sex in the presence of a second witnessing
school official.
School authorities
shall make referral to law enforcement authorities for charges under the
Pennsylvania Criminal Code when appropriate.
HARASSMENT
POLICY
STUDENT TO STUDENT SEXUAL
HARASSMENT POLICY
INTRODUCTION
Recognizing
that student to student sexual harassment is pervasive in schools, it is the
intent of the Harmony Area School District School Board of Education to provide
and maintain an environment that is supportive of academic progress, personal
goals, dignity and the self-esteem of every student in the system, in an
environment in which students can work free from sexual harassment of a verbal,
visual of physical nature.
Harassment is
defined in this policy as “engaging in a course of vexatious comment or conduct
that is known or ought reasonable to be known to be unwelcome.” Sexual harassment may involve remarks,
gestures, or actions of a sexual nature that make a person feel unsafe or
uncomfortable. It creates an
intimidating, hostile or offensive learning environment. Sexual harassment is part of the continuum of
violence. Sexual harassment is
illegal. It may include (but is not
limited to):
Unwanted,
unwelcome physical contact like touching, grabbing or patting;
Rude
jokes or suggestive nicknames like “chick,” “sexy,” “stud,” or “babe;”
Catcalls,
ranting or embarrassing whistles;
Insulting
remarks about sexual orientation;
Sexually
insulting remarks about race, gender, ability or class;
Bragging
about sexual prowess for others to hear;
Intimidating
hallway behavior, names written on walls or desks, e.g. “For a good time,
call…”
Stalking.
Attempting
to remove ones clothing e.g. de-panting
It is not:
A hug between friends;
Mutual flirtation;
A Sincere and personal compliment;
Degrading
jokes, insistent requests for dates, cat calls that cause embarrassment rather
than pleasure, pictures scratched on bathroom walls, ranting, intimidating remarks
or gestures all of these can be harassing.
All staff
that witness or have knowledge of student-to-student sexual harassment must:
- Intervene if appropriate;
- Immediately report it to the
school administration.
Administration
has the responsibility of protecting the victim from further sexual harassment
and retaliation. Appropriate action is
to be taken which may include summoning the police. Action must also be taken to protect the
accused from false allegations. The
confidentiality of all parties must be protected wherever possible.
Immediately
upon having been made aware of an incident of sexual harassment, an
administrator must investigate by:
- Interviewing witnesses, the
reporting staff member, the complainant and the accused;
- Documenting in written form;
- Advising the victim of
counseling, and informing the victim of his/her rights and stating that
the incident will be resolved;
- In the case of student under the
age of eighteen, contacting the parent of both the victim and the accused;
- Contacting the policy if
necessary;
- Providing consequences for the
offender.
If the
complainant is not satisfied with the resolution above or an individual’s
behavior demonstrates ongoing sexual harassment, or the incident is of such
severity that the complainant believes the victim is in danger of further
sexual harassment or retaliation, the administrator must investigate by:
- Safely isolating the victim and
summoning police if necessary;
- Interviewing witnesses, the
reporting staff member; the complainant and the accused;
- Checking reports for previous
incidents involving the accused;
- In the case of students under the
age of eighteen, contacting the parents of both the victim and the
accused;
- Assist the complainant in
drafting a written complaint;
- Contacting the police if
necessary;
- Providing consequence for the
offender.
STUDENT-TO-STUDENT
SEXUAL HARASSMENT
COMPLAINT PROCEDURES /
DISCIPLINE ACTION
CONSEQUENCES:
CATERGORY I
1.
Physical Harassment
2.
Verbal Harassment
- Non-verbal
Harassment
1ST OFFENSE: Type “B” Step 1
PARENT
NOTIFIED – written and verbal, if possible
SUPERINTENDENT
NOTIFIED
2ND OFFENSE: Type “B” Step 3
PARENT NOTIFIED – written and verbal, if
possible
SUPERINTENDANT NOTIFIED
3RD OFFENSE: Type
“B” Step 5
PARENT
NOTIFIED – written and verbal, if possible
SUPERINTENDENT NOTIFIED
4TH OFFENSE: Type
“C”
CATERGORY II
1.
De-panting
1ST OFFENSE: Type “B” Step 3
PARENT NOTIFIED – written and verbal,
if possible
SUPERINTENDENT NOTIFIED
2ND OFFENSE: Type “B” Step 5
PARENT NOTIFIED - written and verbal,
if possible
PROSECUTION
SUPERINTENDENT NOTIFIED
BOARD
REFERRAL
3RD OFFENSE: Type “C”
PARENT NOTIFIED – written and verbal, if
possible
SUPERINTENDENT NOTIFIED
BOARD
REFERRAL