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This proposal outlines plans by Education Revolution, Inc. and the McKinley-Goode Charter School to implement a new charter school called The M-G Group over the 2014-2015 school year. The implementation plans cover establishing a board of trustees, finalizing agreements with the school district, hiring staff, adopting curriculum from Success for All and New Tech Network, procuring equipment and materials, implementing student discipline and anti-bullying policies, and conducting outreach in preparation for opening the school.
This proposal outlines plans by Education Revolution, Inc. and the McKinley-Goode Charter School to implement a new charter school called The M-G Group over the 2014-2015 school year. The implementation plans cover establishing a board of trustees, finalizing agreements with the school district, hiring staff, adopting curriculum from Success for All and New Tech Network, procuring equipment and materials, implementing student discipline and anti-bullying policies, and conducting outreach in preparation for opening the school.
This proposal outlines plans by Education Revolution, Inc. and the McKinley-Goode Charter School to implement a new charter school called The M-G Group over the 2014-2015 school year. The implementation plans cover establishing a board of trustees, finalizing agreements with the school district, hiring staff, adopting curriculum from Success for All and New Tech Network, procuring equipment and materials, implementing student discipline and anti-bullying policies, and conducting outreach in preparation for opening the school.
PROPOSAL FOR EXTERNAL PROVIDER OF EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
Applicants: EDUCATION REVOLUTION, INC. And THE MCKINLEY-GOODE CHARTER SCHOOL
The M-G Group Implementation Plans 2014-2015 I. Board of Trustees Recruit candidates for Board of Trustees from local community Acquaint candidates with the organization, its governing documents, and their duties and responsibilities Arrange for/conduct Board elections Begin Board training
II. Charter Agreement with District Review charter agreement with District Prepare plan for compliance Execute plan III. HR Finalize employment policies/handbooks Finalize benefit plans Prepare employment contracts
IV. Success for All Work with SFA on adoption/implementation plan for SFA programs Work with SFA on recruiting/hiring process Execute adoption/implementation plan Attend conference(s) Begin training/development
V. New Tech Network Work with NTN on adoption/implementation plan for NTN curriculum/programs Execute adoption/implementation plan Attend conference(s) Begin training/development
VI. Advisors Research/interview accounting firms, law firms, insurance companies Retain advisors
VII. Senior Staff Recruit candidates for senior staff Hire senior staff Begin staff training and development VIII. Fiscal Affairs Build accounting/reporting systems Create fiscal safeguards Retain payroll service IX. Financing Follow-up with lenders for bank financing Complete any actions necessary to close on financing Close on financing
X. School equipment/materials needs Inventory equipment/materials available for use at school Identify additional equipment/materials needed Research alternatives for best value Procure equipment/materials Arrange for delivery prior to school opening XI. Educators/Remaining Staff Recruit educators/remaining staff Hire educators/remaining staff Begin educator/staff training and development
XII. Technology Plan Build tactical technology plan that addresses acquisition and implementation, addressing such matters as software/hardware needs, information systems, reporting requirements with District, connectivity within the school building, website development, learning technologies, electronic interactions with parents, installations, training and support Execute/implement technology plan
XIII. Family/Community Outreach Finalize family/community outreach plans Convene public meetings/socials Implement plans to involve family/community Establish community partnerships XIV. School Opening Implement plan for school opening Convene open houses/orientations Begin enrollment process
Discipline Policy Section I. Purpose Student conduct is closely related to learning. An effective educational program requires a safe and orderly school environment. The Schools policy on discipline follows. Section II. Rules and Policies The Board shall establish fair and reasonable rules and regulations regarding the conduct and deportment of all students in the School during the time they are under the supervision of the School or at any time while on School property, while present at School-sponsored activities, and while traveling to or from School and School-sponsored activities. The Board shall further adopt a Code of Student Conduct to govern student discipline. Each student must adhere to Board policies and the Code of Student Conduct governing student discipline. Section III. Discipline Any student disciplined by a School employee shall have the right to notice of the infraction and an informal hearing before the Principal designee prior to being disciplined. The student may appeal the discipline determination to the Board or designee. 1. Corporal Punishment The Board prohibits the use of corporal punishment to discipline student for violations of school policies, rules or regulations. Corporal punishment is a form of physical discipline intended to cause pain and fear in which the student is spanked, paddled or hit on any part of the body with a hand or instrument. Reasonable force may be used by teachers, School authorities and contracted service providers or their representatives under any of the following circumstances: a. To quell a disturbance b. To obtain possession of weapons or other dangerous objects c. For the purpose of self-defense d. For the protection of persons or property
2. Off-Campus Activities The policy shall also apply to student conduct that occurs off School property and would violate the Code of Student Conduct if: a. There is a nexus between the proximity and/or timing of the conduct in relation to the students attendance at School or School-sponsored activities. b. The student is a member of an extracurricular activity and has been notified that particular off-campus conduct could result in exclusion from such activities. c. Student expression or conduct materially and substantially disrupts the operations of the School or the Administration reasonably anticipates that the expression or conduct is likely to materially and substantially disrupt the operations of the School. d. The conduct has a direct nexus to attendance at School or School-sponsored activity such as an agreement made on School property to complete a transaction or engage in activity that would violate the Code of Student Conduct. e. The conduct involves the theft or vandalism of School property. Any student disciplined by a School employee shall have the right to notice of the infraction. Suspensions and expulsions shall be carried out in accordance with Board policy. Section III. Delegation of Responsibility The Principal or designee shall ensure that rules and regulations developed or approved by the Board shall be implemented as intended. The Principal or designee shall publish and distribute to staff, students and parents/guardians the rules and regulations for student behavior contained in the Code of Student Conduct and the sanctions that may be imposed for violations of those rules. A copy of the Student Code of Conduct shall be available in the school. The Principal or designee shall report to the Board the methods of discipline imposed by administrators, incidences of student misconduct, with the degree and specificity as requested by the Board. The Principal is granted the authority to refer to the Board for disciplinary action those students who consistently violate the Code of Student Conduct. The Administration shall have the authority to assign discipline to students, subject to policies, rules and regulations of the school and to the students due process right to a notice, hearing and appeal. School employees shall have the authority to take reasonable actions necessary to control the conduct of students in all situations and in all places where students are within the jurisdiction of this Board, and when such conduct interferes with the educational program of the School or threatens the health and safety of others.
Bullying/Cyber-bullying Policy Section I. Purpose The School recognizes the importance of providing all students and employees with a safe school and learning environment and has determined that a safe, civil environment in school is necessary for students to learn and achieve high academic standards. Bullying and cyber bullying, like other disruptive or violent behaviors, is conduct that disrupts both a students ability to learn and the schools ability to educate its students in a safe environment. Therefore, in order to ensure and promote a safe learning environment, it shall be the policy of the School to maintain an educational environment that is intolerant of bullying and cyber bullying in any form.
Since students learn by example, school administrators, faculty, staff and volunteers are directed to demonstrate appropriate behavior, treat others with civility and respect, and refuse to tolerate bullying and cyber bullying. This policy pertains to all students and staff, regardless of their status. This policy also applies to all students and staff whose conduct out of School materially and substantially interferes with the educational process at the School.
Section II. Bullying Bullying means an intentional electronic, written, verbal or physical act or series of acts directed at another student or students, which occurs in a School setting and/or outside a School setting, that is severe, persistent or pervasive and has the effect of doing any of the following: 1. Substantial interference with a students education.
2. Creation of a threatening environment.
3. Substantial disruption of the orderly operation of the School.
Bullying, as defined in this policy, includes cyber-bullying. School setting means in the School, on School grounds, on School property, using School equipment and technology, on the Schools server or electronic, web-based, Internet, or online programs, in School vehicles, at a designated bus/van stop, on the way to or home from, or at any activity sponsored, supervised or sanctioned by the School. Cyber bullying is often seen by sending harmful or cruel material, text messages and/or images, or engaging in other forms of social aggression and bullying using the Internet, cell phones, personal digital assistants, or other technology resources. Cyber bullying via the Internet is seen through the use of any one or more of a number of methods, including, but not limited to: Email sent to the intended victim. Blog entries regarding the intended victim. Posts on social networking websites, including, but not limited to, Facebook or MySpace. Posting a victims pictures on the Internet or networking websites with derogatory phrases or questions attached to them. Using instant messaging tools to harass victims. Creating an Internet parody of the intended victim. Creating fake Internet profiles for the victim on a public website. Creating or accessing an unauthorized website which harasses or bullies the victim. Using camera phones and/or digital cameras to take embarrassing photographs of students and/or staff and posting them online. Excluding others from an online group by falsely reporting them for inappropriate language or Internet service problems.
Cell phones are also often used for cyber bullying for things such as calling or text messaging the victim and/or using a victims cell phone to text or call another victim using harassing language. The use of Internet or School email does not necessarily have to involve the creation of the offensive materials. Rather, the person creating the offensive material may do it on a home computer and then use the Schools computers to take such actions as accessing it, viewing it, displaying it for others to see, disseminating copies of it to others or otherwise publicizing the contents. The School prohibits the foregoing conduct and any conduct by any student or staff that creates or intends to create an intimidating, threatening, offensive, or hostile learning environment. Section III. Consequences The School prohibits all forms of bullying by students. Since bystander support of bullying and cyber bullying can bolster these types of behaviors, The School prohibits both active and passive support for acts of bullying and cyber bullying. The staff should encourage all students to refuse to engage in these acts and to report them immediately to the building principal or designee. The Board directs that complaints of bullying shall be investigated promptly, and corrective action shall be taken when allegations are verified. Confidentiality of all parties shall be maintained, consistent with legal and investigative obligations. No reprisals or retaliation shall occur as a result of good faith reports of bullying.
Consequences for Violations Consequences and appropriate remedial actions for a student who commits one or more acts of bullying or cyber bullying may range from positive behavioral interventions up to and including in-School or out- of-School suspension or expulsion from the School. In some cases, bullying and/or cyber bullying may constitute criminal activity and the Police Department may be notified. This may lead to a criminal investigation and criminal charges against the student. Consequences for a student who commits an act of bullying and/or cyber bullying shall be unique to the individual incident and will vary in method and severity according to the nature of the behavior, the developmental age of the student, and the students history of problem behaviors and performance, and must be consistent with the Schools student code of conduct. Remedial measures shall be designed to: correct the problem behavior, prevent another occurrence of the behavior, and protect the victim of the act. A student who violates this policy shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action consistent with the Code of Student Conduct, which may include: Counseling within the school Parental conference Loss of school privileges Transfer to another school building or classroom Exclusion from school-sponsored activities Detention Suspension Expulsion Counseling/therapy Referral to law enforcement officials
Prohibited Retaliation The School prohibits retaliation or reprisal against any person who reports bullying and/or cyber bullying incidents. Retaliation includes, but is not limited to, any form of intimidation, reprisal, or harassment used against a person who reports, in good faith, incidents of bullying and/or cyber bullying. Disciplinary action against any person who retaliates or engages in reprisals for reporting such behavior(s) may include sanctions up to and including suspension or expulsion. The consequences and appropriate remedial action shall be determined after consideration of the nature, severity, and circumstances of the act.
False Accusations The Board prohibits any person from falsely accusing another of bullying and/or cyber bullying. The consequences and appropriate remedial action for a student found to have falsely accused another of bullying and/or cyber bullying may range from positive behavior interventions up to and including suspension or expulsion. Section IV. Additional Requirements The principal or designee shall develop administrative regulations to implement this policy. The principal or designee shall ensure that this policy and administrative regulations are reviewed annually with students. The principal or designee, in cooperation with other appropriate administrators, shall review this policy every three (3) years and recommend necessary revisions to the Board. The Administration shall annually provide the following information with the Safe School Report: 1. Boards Bullying Policy. 2. Report of bullying incidents. 3. Information on the development and implementation of any bullying prevention, intervention or education programs. The Code of Student Conduct, which shall contain this policy, shall be disseminated annually to students. The School may develop and implement bullying prevention and intervention programs. Such programs shall provide staff and students with appropriate training for effectively responding to, intervening in and reporting incidents of bullying.
Controlled Substances and Paraphernalia Policy Section I. Purpose The use and abuse of controlled substances is a serious problem with legal, physical and social implications for the whole school community. The use and abuse of controlled substances shall be prevented in accordance with this policy. Controlled substances shall mean: 1. Controlled substances prohibited by federal and state law. 2. Look-alike drugs 3. Alcoholic beverages 4. Anabolic steroids 5. Drug paraphernalia 6. Any volatile solvents or inhalants, such as but not limited to glue and aerosol products 7. Prescription or patent drugs except those for which permission for use in school has been granted pursuant to Board policy 8. Any substance represented as a drug
For the purpose of this policy, under the influence shall include any consumption or ingestion of controlled substances by the student. Section II. Restrictions Students shall be prohibited from using, possessing, distributing, and being under the influence of any controlled substances during school hours, at any time while on school property, at any school- sponsored activity, and during the time spent traveling to and from school and school-sponsored activities. The School may require participation in drug counseling, rehabilitation, testing or other programs as a condition for reinstatement into the Schools educational, extracurricular or athletic programs resulting from violations of this policy. This policy shall also apply to student conduct that occurs off school property and would violate the Code of Student Conduct if: 1. There is a nexus between the proximity or timing of the conduct in relation to the students attendance at school or at school-sponsored activities. 2. The student is a member of an extracurricular activity and has been notified that the particular off-campus activity could result in exclusion from such activities. 3. Student expression or conduct materially or substantially disrupts the operations of the school, or the administration reasonably anticipates that the expression or conduct is likely to materially and substantially disrupt the operations of the school. 4. The conduct is a direct nexus to attendance at school or a school-sponsored activity such as an agreement to complete a transaction or activity outside of school that would violate the Code of Student Conduct. 5. The conduct involves the theft or vandalism of school property. Section III. Delegation of Responsibility The principal or designee shall prepare rules for the identification and control of substance abuse in the School which: 1. Establish procedures to deal with students suspected of using, possessing, being under the influence, or distributing controlled substances in school, up to and including expulsion and referral for prosecution. 2. Disseminate to students, parent/guardians and staff Board policy and school procedures governing student use and abuse of controlled substances. 3. Provide education concerning the dangers of abusing controlled substances. 4. Establish procedures for education and readmission to school of students convicted of offenses involving controlled substances. The privileged confidentiality between students and guidance counselors, school nurses, school psychologists, and other school employees shall be respected, and no confidential communication made to such employee shall be required to be revealed without the consent of the student or parent, unless the best interests of the student can be served only by such release. Section IV. Guidelines Incidents of possession, use and sale of controlled substances, including alcohol, by any person on school property shall be reported to the Office of Safe Schools on the required form. A student who, while subject to school jurisdiction, possesses, uses, is under the influence, sells or distributes, or offers to sell or distribute any controlled substance as defined in this policy shall be suspended from school for a period of 3 days to be followed by an informal hearing by a school administrator, and if found necessary, suspended for 7 more days. At the discretion of the principal, the student may be referred for a hearing before the Board to determine future educational status. The principal or designee is to take action to enforce this policy and in all instances when a student is apprehended in school, the following administrative actions will be taken: 1. The principal will receive a verbal summary report from the designee as soon as possible after the designee becomes aware of the incident. 2. The principal or designee will notify proper authorities immediately and when possible, parents/guardian will be notified prior to communicating with the authorities. a. The principal will determine if a police report is necessary. b. The School may take the student and the controlled substance to the police instead of bringing the police to the school. 3. The principal or designee shall immediately suspend the student. Such suspension shall continue within the limits set by the policy. 4. The student will be responsible for any work missed during a period of suspension. Section V. Anabolic Steroids The use of anabolic steroids by students in school-related athletics is prohibited except for a valid medical purpose. Body building and muscle enhancement of athletic ability are not valid medical purposes. Human Growth Hormone (HGH) shall not be included as an anabolic steroid when administered by a medical professional. Students shall be made aware of the dangers of steroid use; that anabolic steroids are classified as controlled substances, and that their use, unauthorized possession, purchase, or sale could subject students to suspension, expulsion and/or criminal prosecution. The following minimum penalties are prescribed for any student athlete found in violation of the prohibited use of anabolic steroids: 1. For a first violation, suspension from the School or home school district athletics for the remainder of the season 2. For a second violation, suspension from the School or home school district athletics for the remainder of the season and for the following season. 3. For a third violation, permanent suspension from the School and home school district athletics. No student shall be eligible to resume participation in school athletics unless a medical determination has been submitted, verifying that no residual evidence of steroids exists. Medical testing shall be at the expense of the student and his/her parent/guardian. Section VI. Reasonable Suspicion/Testing If based on a students behavior, medical symptoms, vital signs, or other observable factors, the PRINCIPAL or designee has reasonable suspicion that the student is under the influence of a controlled substance, the student may be required to submit to a drug or alcohol test. The testing may include but is not limited to the analysis of blood, urine, saliva, or the administration of a Breathalyzer test.
Harassment Policy Section I. Purpose In order to provide a safe, positive learning climate for students in the School, it shall be the Schools policy to maintain an educational environment in which harassment in any form is not tolerated. Section II. Prohibitions All forms of harassment of students and third parties by School students and staff members, contracted individuals, vendors, volunteers and other third parties in the School is prohibited. Those who have been harassed are encouraged to promptly report such incidents to the PRINCIPAL or designee. Any person who aids and abets another in any act or conduct that is in violation of this policy may be subject to the discipline and other sanctions provided herein. The prohibition against harassment shall extend to all activities of the students during School hours as well as during or in conjunction with any school sponsored activities. It shall also extend to any conduct or activities directed toward the students of any other school with whom the School is engaged in extracurricular academic or athletic events. Complaints of harassment shall be investigated promptly, and corrective action be taken when allegations are substantiated. Confidentiality of all parties shall be maintained, consistent with the Schools legal and investigative obligations. Neither reprisals nor retaliation shall occur as a result of good faith charges of harassment. Section III. Harassment Harassment shall consist of verbal, written, graphic or physical conduct relating to an individuals race, color, national origin/ethnicity, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation or religion when such conduct: 1. Is sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive that it affects an individuals ability to participate in or benefit from an educational program or activity or creates an intimidating, threatening or abusive educational environment. 2. Has the purpose or effect of substantially or unreasonably interfering with an individuals academic performance. 3. Otherwise adversely affects an individuals learning opportunities. Sexual harassment shall consist of unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other inappropriate verbal, written, graphic, or physical conduct of a sexual nature when: 1. Submission to such conduct is made explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of a students academic status. 2. Submission or rejection of such conduct is used as the basis for academic or work decisions affecting the individual. 3. Such conduct deprives a student of educational aid, benefit, services or treatment. 4. Such conduct is sufficiently severe, persistent or pervasive that it has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with the students school performance or creating an intimidating, threatening, hostile or offensive educational environment.
Examples of conduct that may constitute sexual harassment include but are not limited to sexual flirtations, advances, touching or propositions, verbal abuse of a sexual nature, graphic or suggestive comments about an individuals dress or body, sexually degrading words to describe an individual, jokes, pin-ups, calendars, objects, graffiti, vulgar statements, abusive language, innuendoes, references to sexual activities, overt sexual conduct, or any conduct that has the effect of unreasonably interfering with a students ability to work or learn or creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive learning or working environment. Section IV. Delegation of Responsibility In order to maintain an educational environment that discourages and prohibits harassment, the Board designates the PRINCIPAL as the Schools Compliance Officer. The Compliance Officer shall publish and disseminate this policy and the complaint procedure annually to students, parents, employees, independent contractors, vendors and the public. The publication shall include the position, office address and telephone number of the Compliance Officer. The Administration shall be responsible for providing training for students and employees regarding the aspects of harassment. Each staff member shall be responsible to maintain an educational environment free of forms of harassment. Each student shall respect the rights of their fellow students and employees. The Compliance Officer shall, when receiving a complaint of harassment: 1. Inform the student or third party of the right to file a complaint and the complaint procedure 2. Inform the complainant and the accused that he/she may be accompanied by a parent/guardian during all steps of the complaint procedure. 3. Notify the complainant and the accused of the progress at appropriate stages of the procedure. 4. Refer the complainant to the Board President if the Compliance Officer is the subject of the complaint.
Charter School Student Internet Use and Safety Policy The Internet connects the CS community to the world and also connects each member of the CS community to each other. The Internet provides students with access to vast resources and allows for the ability to share information that is current and relevant. It is a powerful tool that can help our CS community grow, but that when yielded and used inappropriately can cause serious disruption. Purpose: The purpose of this policy is twofold: (1) Establish the rules for the use of internet provided by CS to its students in all educational settings within the CS community; and (2) Provide for the education and training of CS students regarding appropriate online behavior. The content of this Policy is designed to track the requirements to of the Child Internet Protection Act of 2000.
Scope: This policy applies to all students and faculty of CS engaged in internet activity related to CS or using CS equipment, including all internet activity conducted on CS owned equipment at the students home, at a cyber caf, or elsewhere. CS reserves the right to update this policy at any time. Policy: A. All Internet use by the CS student community will be filtered to prohibit access to obscene materials. Any breach or attempted breach of the filtering software is prohibited. Any intentional access of inappropriate material on the Internet is also prohibited. B. All Internet use by CS students will be monitored, to the extent practicable, by CS personnel. C. Students may only send email, files, chat, or other text only from their own personal workstation when they are logged on using their own personal ID. Impersonating other students is prohibited. Additionally, students are prohibited from accessing another person's e-mail inbox, intercepting another person's e-mail messages and/or reading, repositioning or destroying e-mail messages which are addressed to or otherwise intended for another individual. Internet users are prohibited from using another person's e-mail address. D. Internet users are prohibited from creating, receiving, uploading, downloading and/or transmitting inappropriate material. Inappropriate material includes, but is not limited to, that of a lewd, lascivious, pornographic, racist, sexist, threatening or violent subject matter.
E. Students may not use the internet for illegal or unlawful purposes, including, but not limited to, copyright infringement, fraud, plagiarism, harassment, intimidation, forgery, impersonation, illegal gambling, and spreading computer viruses. Any activity that is not listed here which constitutes a violation of local, state, or federal laws, is considered a violation of the Student Code of Conduct and this policy. F. Unauthorized use of the internet and equipment for any purpose other than educational purposes is prohibited. G. CS shall educate students on how to take precautions so as not to transmit a virus through the networks, how to not transmit personal information, and other unauthorized disclosures. Procedures: Parents of CS students will receive written notice that CS students will have access to the Internet as well as a copy of the rules for Internet users which are contained in this Policy. Email, Messaging, and Internet Use policies and procedures will be included in employment manuals and tailored to employee Internet use. An Internet user who violates the rules set forth in this Policy may be subject to disciplinary action including, but not limited to, detention, suspension, expulsion, and federal penalties associated with internet use. Education: CS shall provide for training to every student regarding appropriate online behavior, including, but not limited to the following: Social media; cyber-bullying, intimidation, and harassment; internet and network etiquette, including the use of proper grammar and punctuation; the consequences of divulging personal information over social media, school networks, and the internet; the consequences of participating in illegal internet activity; respecting others privacy; and maintaining academic integrity in the age of the internet. Students will be continually reminded of the presence of faculty and curriculum provider monitoring, and those students found to have violated this or the Student Code of Conduct will receive additional guidance in the above subjects.
Policy on School Events and Class Trips Section I. Purpose School events and class trips may be valuable aids in enhancing and enriching the educational experience for students. The Schools policy on such events and trips is set forth below. Section II. Events/Trips School facilities shall be made available for events upon the recommendation of the PRINCIPAL or designee. Class trips and School events that take place outside of School facilities require approval of the PRINCIPAL. Section III. Participation As voluntary participants in School events and class trips, students shall be held responsible for compliance with School policies and rules. Violators of those policies or rules will be subjected to the same disciplinary measures applied during the regular School program. Participation in school events is not a right and may be denied to any student who has demonstrated disregard for the policies and rules of the school, or who fails to maintain minimum grades. Section IV. Delegation of Responsibility The Principal or designee shall develop procedures for the conduct of students during school events and class trips.
Policy on Searches Section I. Purpose The School will provide space for students to safely store books, clothing, school materials and personal property. This policy governs the provision of such space as well as the use of personal book bags/backpacks or similar items by students to carry such property. Section II. Restrictions All student storage space is and shall remain the property of the School. As such, students shall have only a limited expectation of privacy in these spaces. Although book bags/back packs may be the students personal property, by bringing them onto school property or into school-sponsored activities, they relinquish the right to total privacy within such items. Additionally, although students wearing apparel belongs in their own personal space, students relinquish the right to total privacy within such items when they come onto school property or school-sponsored activities. No student may use a storage space or book bag/back pack or similar item for, or carry on his/her person, any substance or object that is prohibited by law, Board policy or school rules or constitutes a threat to the health, safety or welfare of the occupants of the school building or the building itself. The School reserves the right to authorize its employees to inspect a students storage space, book bag/back pack or similar item or person at any time for the purpose of determining whether such is being used improperly for the storage of contraband, a substance or object of which the possession is illegal, or any material that poses a hazard to the safety and order of the School. Each student and their possessions may be searched daily as a result of the rising occurrences of weapons and drugs being brought into schools. Section III. Delegation of Responsibility The Board authorizes the Schools Administration to conduct scheduled & random searches of storage space, book bags/backpacks and similar items and persons when the school has a compelling interest in protecting and preserving the health, safety or welfare of the school population. Students, parent/guardian and staff shall be notified at least annually concerning the contents of this policy. The PRINCIPAL or designee shall develop procedures to implement this policy. The PRINCIPAL or designee shall fully cooperate with law enforcement officers who present a duly authorized search warrant or on the voluntary consent of the student.
The PRINCIPAL or designee shall coordinate with law enforcement for the safekeeping and proper disposal of any substance, object or material found in a students storage space, belongings or person in violation of law, Board policy or school rules. School officials are authorized to search a students motor vehicle parked on school property or at a school-sponsored activity when there is reasonable suspicion that the student is violating the law, Board policy or school rules, or poses a threat to the health, safety or welfare of the school population. Section IV. Guidelines Students shall assume responsibility for maintaining the security of their storage space, personal possessions and person. Whenever possible, prior to an individual storage space, vehicle or book bag/back pack search, the student shall be notified and given an opportunity to be present. However, where school authorities have a reasonable suspicion that the storage space, vehicle or book bag contains contraband and/or illegal materials which pose a threat to the health, welfare and safety of the school population, these areas may be searched without prior warning. Searches conducted by the Administration may include but not be limited to utilization of certified drug dogs, metal detection units or any device used to protect the health, safety and welfare of the School population.
Student Complaints Policy Section I. Purpose Students should be permitted to request redress of complaints. The inculcation of respect for established procedures is an important part of the educational process. Individual and group complaints shall be recognized, and appropriate appeal procedures shall be provided, in accordance with this policy of the Board. Section II. Student Complaints A student complaint shall be one that arises from action or inaction that directly effects the students participation in the School. Section III. Authority The Board and its employees will recognize the complaints of students, provided that such complaints are submitted according to the guidelines established by Board policy. Section IV. Guidelines The student should first make the complaint known to the staff member most closely involved or, if none is identifiable, a guidance counselor or administrator, and both shall attempt to resolve the issue informally and directly. For complaints that must move beyond the first step, the student shall prepare a written statement of his/her complaint which shall set forth: 1. Specific nature of the complaint and a brief statement of relevant facts 2. Manner and extent to which the student believes s/he has been adversely affected. 3. Relief sought by the student 4. Reasons why the student feels entitled to the relief sought. The complaint may then be submitted, in turn, to the PRINCIPAL or designee with a suitable period of time allowed at each level for an informal hearing of the complaint and preparation of a response. At each level, the student shall be afforded the opportunity to be heard personally by the school authority. The student may seek the help of a parent or guardian at any step. In the event that the student is not satisfied with the PRINCIPALs level of disposition, s/he may ask the Board to hear the matter. The Board, in its sole discretion, may decide whether or not they will hear the matter.
Policy on Student Expression, Distribution, and Posting of Materials Section I. Purpose Students shall be permitted to express themselves in words or symbols and/or distribute and post materials in areas designated for posting in accordance with the following policy of the Board. Section II. Definitions Distribution: Students handing non-school materials to others on school property or during school- sponsored events, placing such materials upon desks or on or in lockers, or otherwise engaging in any other manner of delivery of non-school materials to others while on school property or during school functions. When email, text messaging or other technological delivery is used as a means of distributing or accessing non-school materials via use of school equipment or while on school property or at school functions, it shall be governed by this policy. Off-campus or after hours distribution including technological distribution, that does or is likely to materially or substantially interfere with the educational process, including school activities, school work, or discipline and order on school property or at school functions, threatens serious harm to the school or community, encourages unlawful activity or interferes with anothers rights is also covered by this policy. Expression: Verbal, written or symbolic representation or communication. Non-school Materials: Any printed or written materials meant for posting or general distribution to others that are not prepared as part of the curricular or extracurricular programs of the School, including but not limited to fliers, invitations, announcements, pamphlets, posters, Internet bulleting boards, and personal web sites. Posting: Publicly displaying non-school materials on school property or at school-sponsored events including but not limited to affixing such materials to walls, doors, bulletin boards, easels, the outside of lockers, on school-sponsored or student web sites and through other School -owned technology. Section III. Authority Student expression that occurs on school property or at school-sponsored events is governed by this policy. In addition, off-campus or after hours expression is governed by this policy if the student expression constitutes unprotected expression and the off-campus or after hours expression materially or substantially interferes with the educational process, including school activities, school work or discipline, and order on school property or at school functions, threatens serious harm to the school or community, encourages unlawful activity or interferes with anothers rights. Distribution and posting of non-school materials may occur only at the places and during the times set forth through written administrative direction. Such direction or procedure shall be written to permit the orderly operation of the school, while recognizing the rights of students to engage in protected expression.
Materials sought to be distributed or posted as part of the curricular or extracurricular programs of the School shall be regulated as part of the schools educational program. Unprotected Student Expression The School reserves the right to designate and prohibit manifestations of student expression that are not protected by the right of free expression because they violate the rights of others or where such expression is likely to or does materially or substantially interfere with school activities, school work, or discipline and order on school property or at school functions including but not limited to: 1. Labeling any specific person or person 2. Advocating the use or advertising the availability of any substance or material that may be reasonably believed to constitute a direct or substantial danger to the health and welfare of students. 3. Using obscene, lewd, vulgar or profane language whether verbal, written or symbolic 4. Inciting violence, advocating the use of force, or encouraging violation of federal, state or municipal law, Board policy, school rules or regulations. 5. Are likely to or do materially or substantially interfere with the educational process, including school activities, school work, or discipline and order on school property or at school functions, threatens serious harm to the school or community, encourages unlawful activity or interferes with anothers rights. 6. Violating written school administrative regulations or procedures on time, place, and manner for posting and distribution of otherwise protected expression.
Spontaneous student expression which is otherwise protected speech is not prohibited by this section. The School reserves the right to halt the distribution of unprotected materials. Discipline for Engaging in Unprotected Expression The School maintains the right to prohibit the posting or distribution of non-school materials containing unprotected expression and to prohibit students from engaging in other unprotected student expression as well as to stop unprotected student expression when it occurs. The School further maintains the right to discipline students for engaging in unprotected expression. Where such expression occurs off campus and away from school functions, a nexus between the unprotected expression and a substantial and material disruption of the school program must be established. Distribution of Non-School Materials Students who wish to distribute or post non-school materials on School property shall submit them to the PRINCIPAL or designee at least one school day in advance of planned distribution or posting. If the non-school materials contain unprotected expression as stated in this policy, the PRINCIPAL or designee shall notify the students that they may not post or distribute the materials because the materials constitute a violation of this policy. If notice is not given during the period between submission and the time for the planned distribution or posting, students may proceed with the planned distribution or posting, provided that they comply with written administrative direction or procedures on time, place, and manner of posting or distribution on non-school materials. Students who post or distribute non-school materials in compliance with this provision may still be ordered to desist such distribution if materials are later found to be unprotected expression under this policy. Students who distribute printed materials shall be responsible for clearing any litter that results from their activity and shall schedule the event so that they do not miss instructional time themselves. Posting of Non-School Materials Students may post non-school items in a specified area, if the materials do not constitute unprotected expression and the items were submitted for prior review in the same manner as if students were going to distribute them. Such materials shall be officially dated and the School may remove the materials within 10 days of the posting or other reasonable time as stated in the administrative direction relating to posting. Review of Student Expression School officials shall not censor or restrict non-school materials or other student expression for the sole reason that it is critical of the school or its administration or because the views espoused are unpopular or may make people feel uncomfortable. Student-initiated religious expression is permissible and shall not be prohibited except as to time, place and manner of distribution, or if the expression involved violates some other part of this policy, e.g. because it is independently determined to be unprotected expression under the standards and definitions of this policy. The review for unprotected expression shall be reasonable and not calculated to delay distribution. Appeal of the reviewers decision may be to the PRINCIPAL and then to the Board, in accordance with Board policy and school regulations.
Section IV. Delegation of Responsibility The PRINCIPAL or designee shall determine the designation of the places and times non-school materials may be distributed in school. Such designations may take into account the flow of student traffic throughout the school and shall limit distribution on non-school materials to non-instructional time. Disciplinary action may be determined by the administration for students who distribute or post non- school materials in violation of this policy and school regulations, or who continue the manifestation of unprotected expression after a person in authority orders that they desist.
Supplementary Discipline Records Policy Section I. Records The School shall maintain all legally-required records concerning adjudicated students and transfer students for offenses involving weapons, alcohol, drugs and violence on school property. Section II. Requirements 1. Adjudicated Students Through the juvenile probation department, the Courts report to School officials certain information concerning the adjudication of an enrolled student. Such reports may include a description of the delinquent acts committed by the student, disposition of the case, probation or treatment reports, prior delinquent history, the supervision plan, and any other information deemed necessary. The PRINCIPAL or designee must share this information with the students teacher and the Administrator of another school to which the student may transfer. Required reports concerning an adjudicated student shall be maintained separately from the students official school record. 2. Transfer Students Upon registration and prior to admission to the School, the parent/guardian or person having charge of the student shall provide a sworn statement or affirmation stating whether the student previously was or presently is suspended or expelled from any public or private school for an offense involving weapons, alcohol, or drugs, willful infliction of injury to another person, or any act of violence committed on school property. The statement shall include the dates of the suspension or expulsion and the name of the school from which the student was suspended or expelled for these reasons. Parents/Guardians shall be informed that any false statements concerning this registration shall be a misdemeanor of the third degree. This registration statement shall be maintained as part of the students disciplinary record. When a student transfers to the School, a certified copy of the students disciplinary record shall be obtained from the school from which the student is transferring. This record shall be maintained as part of the students disciplinary record and shall be available for inspection as required by law.
Policy on Student Suspension/Expulsion Section I. Purpose The School recognizes that exclusion from the educational program of the School, whether by suspension or expulsion, is the most severe sanction that can be imposed on a student and one that cannot be imposed without due process. The policy of the School on student suspensions and expulsions is set forth below. Exclusions affecting students with disabilities shall also be governed by applicable state and federal laws and regulations. Section II. Authority The Board may, after a proper hearing, suspend or expel a student for such a time as it deems necessary or may permanently expel a student. Suspension is either internal or external and must be specified when the consequence is assigned. The PRINCIPAL or designee in charge of THE CHARTER SCHOOL may temporarily suspend any student for disobedience or misconduct. Section III. Suspensions/Expulsions 1. Exclusion from School Suspension The PRINCIPAL or designee may suspend any student for disobedience or misconduct for a period of one to ten consecutive school days and shall notify the parent/guardian in writing when the student is suspended out of school. No student may be suspended without notice of the reasons for which s/he is being suspended and an opportunity to be heard on his/her own behalf before the School official who holds the authority to reinstate the student. Prior notice is not required where it is clear that the health, safety or welfare of the School population is threatened. Suspension may not be made to run consecutively beyond the ten School day period. The PRINCIPAL or designee shall conduct informal hearings under this provision. When the suspension exceeds three School days, the student and the parent/guardian shall be given the opportunity for an informal hearing with the PRINCIPAL or designee. Such hearing shall take place as soon as possible (after the issuance of the suspension) and the School shall offer to hold it within the first 5 days of the suspension. 2. Purpose of the Informal Hearing The purpose of an informal hearing is to permit the student to explain the circumstances surrounding the event leading to the suspension, to show why the student should not be suspended, and to discuss ways to avoid future offenses.
3. Due Process Requirements for the Informal Hearing A. The student and parent/guardian shall be given written notice of the reasons for the suspension. B. The student and parent/guardian shall receive sufficient notice of the time and place of the informal hearing. C. The student may question any witnesses present at the informal hearing. D. The student may speak and produce witnesses who may speak at the informal hearing. E. The School shall offer to hold the informal hearing within five days of the suspension. Delay of such hearing shall not delay the return to School.
4. Exclusion from Class In School Suspension No students may receive an in-school suspension without notice of the reasons for which s/he is suspended and an opportunity to be heard prior to the time the suspension becomes effective. The parent or guardian shall be informed of the suspension action taken by the School. The School shall provide for the students education during the period of the in-school suspension. 5. Effect of Suspension Students shall have the responsibility to make up exams and work while being disciplined by suspension and shall be permitted to complete these assignments within the guidelines established by the PRINCIPAL or designee. Students may not participate in any School activities during the period of suspension. Further, students are not permitted on any School property at any time during the period of out of School suspension, except to confer with the administrator or to pick up or deliver any work assignments at a time designated by the administrator. Students under in-School suspensions are not permitted to attend School activities. Students may lose School privileges in addition to the suspension depending upon the severity of the offense. 6. Expulsion Expulsion is exclusion from School by the Board for a period exceeding 10 consecutive School days. The Board may permanently expel from the School any student whose misconduct and disobedience warrants this sanction. No student shall be expelled without an opportunity for a formal hearing before a duly authorized committee of the Board and upon action taken by the Board after the hearing. Where a committee of the Board conducts a hearing or a hearing examiner, a majority vote of the entire Board is required to expel a student. However, the recommendation of a committee of a majority of the Board members may be implemented immediately provided that action by the Board is not unreasonably delayed.
7. Attendance Requirements During the period prior to the hearing and decision of the Board in an expulsion case, the student shall be placed in his normal class. If it is determined after an informal hearing that a students presence in his normal class would constitute a threat to the health, safety or welfare of others and it is not possible to hold a formal hearing within the period of a suspension, the student may be excluded from School for more than 10 school days. A student may not be excluded from School for longer than 15 school days without a formal hearing unless mutually agreed upon by both parties. Any student so excluded shall be provided with alternative education, which may include home study. A student under the age of 17 who is expelled has forfeited his/her right to an education in the School but s/he has not been excused from compliance with the compulsory attendance statute. The initial responsibility for providing the required education rests with the students parent or guardian. Parents/guardians who are unable to provide an education for their student shall submit a written statement within 30 days that they are unable to do so. The School shall then make provisions for the students education. The Board may provide an educational program immediately upon expulsion and may waive the 30 day period at its discretion. If the approved educational program is not compiled with, the School may take action to ensure that the student will receive a proper education. 8. Students with Disabilities When a student with an Individualized Education Plan faces suspension or expulsion, the School shall ensure that it complies with all applicable state and federal laws and regulations and Board policies. 9. Expulsion Hearings The Board requires that each hearing shall be closed to the public unless the student and/or parent/guardian request a public hearing. A formal hearing shall not be unreasonably delayed. If it is not possible to hold a formal hearing within the suspension period, the student shall be placed in his/her normal class, after an informal hearing, unless it is determined that the student would constitute a threat to the health, safety, morals or welfare of others. A formal hearing shall be required in expulsion actions. The following due process requirements are to be observed in regard to the informal hearing: A. Notification of the charges in writing be certified mailed to the students parents/guardians. B. At least 3 days notice of the time and place of the hearing, which shall include a copy of this policy, hearing procedures, and notice of the right to representation by legal counsel. A student may request the rescheduling of the hearing when s/he demonstrates good cause for an extension. C. The hearing shall be private unless the student or parent/guardian requests a public hearing. D. Representation by counsel at the parents/guardians expense and at the parent/guardians request may attend the hearing. E. Disclosure of the names of witnesses against the student and copies of their written statements or affidavits will be provided. F. The right to request such witnesses against the student to appear in person and answer questions or to be cross-examined is allowable. G. The right to testify and present witnesses on the students behalf is allowable. H. A written or audio record shall be kept of the hearing and a copy made available to the student at the students expense or at no charge if the student is indigent. I. The hearing shall be held within fifteen school days of the notice of charges unless a delay is mutually agreed upon by both parties or is delayed by: a. The need for laboratory reports from law enforcement agencies b. Evaluations or other court or administrative proceedings are pending due to a students invoking his/her rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). c. Delay is necessary due to the condition or best interests of the victim in cases of juvenile or criminal court involving sexual assault or serious bodily injury. J. Notice of a right to appeal shall be issued after the Board has acted to expel a student. The adjudication may include additional conditions or sanctions.
10. Adjudication A written adjudication shall be issued after the Board has acted to expel a student. The adjudication may include additional conditions or sanctions. 11. Attendance /School Work During Suspension and Prior to Expulsion Students serving an out-of-School suspension must make up missed exams and work, and shall be permitted to complete assignments pursuant to established guidelines. Section IV. Delegation of Responsibility The PRINCIPAL or designee shall develop rules and regulations to implement this policy which include: A. Publication of a Code of Student Conduct, in accordance with Board Policy on student discipline. B. Procedures that ensure due process when depriving a student the right to attend school. C. Regulations regarding student records which require that records of disciplinary suspension be maintained in accordance with Board policy on student records. D. The name of a student who has been disciplined shall not become part of the agenda or minutes of a public meeting, nor part of any public record of the Board. Such students may be designated by code. E. Any student who has been expelled may apply for readmission to School upon such conditions as may be imposed by the Board.
Tobacco Use Policy Section I. Purpose Tobacco use by students presents a health and safety hazard that can have serious consequences for both users and nonusers and the safety and environment of the school. This Policy sets forth the position of the Board on such tobacco use. Section II. Definition Tobacco use shall be defined as use and/or possession of a lighted or unlighted cigarette, cigar or pipe, other lighted smoking products and smokeless tobacco in any form. Section III. Authority Possession of and/or use of tobacco is prohibited by student at any time in a school building and on any property, buses, vans and vehicles that are owned, leased or controlled by the School. Also prohibited is tobacco use and possession by students at school-sponsored activities that are held off school property. The School may initiate prosecution and/or school discipline for a student who possesses or uses tobacco in violation of this policy. Section IV. Delegation of Authority The PRINCIPAL or designee shall annually notify students, parents/guardians and staff about the Schools tobacco use policy by publishing such policy in the student handbook, parent newsletter, posted notices and/or other efficient methods. The PRINCIPAL or designee shall develop procedures to implement this policy. The PRINCIPAL or designee is responsible for enforcing this policy. All professional, administrative and support staff, however, are expected to assist in the enforcement. The checking of corridors, restrooms, etc, and reporting the violators shall be part of the staffs work-related responsibility. Incidents of possession, use and sale of tobacco in violation of this policy by any person on school property shall be reported to the Office of Safe Schools on the required form.
Weapons Policy Section I. Purpose Possession of weapons in the school setting is a threat to the safety of students and staff and is prohibited by law. This Policy sets forth the position of the Board as to the possession and use of weapons in the School. Section II. Definitions Weapon: the term shall include but not be limited to any knife, cutting instrument, cutting tool, nunchaku, explosive device, firearm, shotgun, rifle, look-alike weapon ( includes any realistic replica of a weapon and/or any other tool), and any instrument or implement capable of inflicting serious bodily injury. The term weapon does not include a weapon being used as part of a program approved by the Charter School by an individual who is participating in the program. SC 1317.2 Possessing: a student is in possession of a weapon when the weapon is found on the person of the student, under the students control while on school property, on property being used by the school, at any school function or activity, at any school event held away from the school, or while the student is coming to or from school. Hazardous Materials: includes but not limited to noxious, irritating or poisonous gases, poisons, drugs, accelerants or any material or substance capable of causing serious bodily injury, which would not otherwise be defined as a weapon. Incidents Involving Acts of Violence: means and includes all those certain acts as defined by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, Office for Safe schools and as are listed from time to time on the applicable reporting forms of the office. School Property: means any public school grounds, any school-sponsored activity or any conveyance providing transportation to a school entity or school-sponsored activity. Section III. Authority The Board prohibits students from possessing and bringing weapons and look-alike weapons into the Charter School, onto school property, to any school sponsored activity and onto any public vehicle providing transportation to school or a school sponsored activity. SC 1317.2
The Charter School shall expel for a period of not less than one year any student who violates this weapons policy. Such expulsion shall be given in conformance with formal due process proceedings required by law. The PRINCIPAL may recommend modifications of such expulsion on a case-by-case basis. SC 1317.2 Section IV. Delegation of Responsibility Prior to imposing discipline, it shall be determined whether the student involved is identified as a student with a disability. In the case of a student with disabilities, the PRINCIPAL shall take all necessary steps to comply with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and state regulations. The PRINCIPAL or designee shall report the discovery of any weapon or replica of a weapon prohibited by this policy to the students parents and to local law enforcement officials. The PRINCIPAL or designee shall report all incidents relating to expulsion for possession of a weapon or replica of a weapon prohibited by this policy to the Department of Education on forms to be provided by the Office of Safe Schools. The PRINCIPAL or designee shall be responsible for developing a memorandum of understanding with local law enforcement officials that sets forth procedures to be followed when an incident occurs involving an act of violence or possession of a weapon by any person on school property. SC 1303-A The PRINCIPAL shall develop procedures which shall include: 1. A plain English written notice of this policy for distribution to students and their parents/guardians or other persons having control of students at the Charter School 2. Instructions to employees as to procedures to be followed within the Charter School when they discover a student with a weapon on school property. 3. Disciplinary records that are properly maintained and are available for inspection or transmittal as required by this policy
Students, staff and parents/guardians shall be informed at least annually concerning this policy. The PRINCIPAL, who shall prescribe special conditions and/or the procedures to be followed, may make exceptions to this policy. Weapons under the control of law enforcement personnel are permitted.
Section V. Records 1. The Charter School shall maintain updated records of all incidents involving acts of violence, incidents involving possession of a weapon and convictions or adjudications of delinquency of acts committed on school property by students. 2. The Charter School shall maintain updated records of all acts or offenses involving weapons, alcohol or drugs, or for the willful infliction of injury to another person or for any act of violence committed on school property which resulted in a students suspension or expulsion. 3. Whenever a student transfers to a new school, a certified copy of the students disciplinary record shall be transmitted to the receiving school within 10 days of its request for the record from the students prior school. This transfer of the students record to another school entity in which the student seeks enrollment or may be enrolled may be made without permission of the parent, guardian or other person having control or charge of the student. 4. Prior to admission to any school entity, the parent, guardian or other person having control or charge of a student shall, upon registration, provide a sworn statement or affirmation, registration statement, stating whether the student was previously suspended or expelled from any public or private school in Pennsylvania or any other state for an act or offense involving weapons, alcohol or drugs or for the willful infliction of injury to another person or for any act of violence committed on school property. 5. Any willful false registration statement shall be a misdemeanor in the third degree. 6. A students disciplinary record maintained under this policy shall be available to the student, his/her parent/guardian or other person having control or charge of the student, to school officials, and to state and local law enforcement officials as provided by law.
In accordance with the federal gun-Free School Zone Act, possession or discharge of a firearm in, on, or within 1,000 feet of school grounds is prohibited. Violations shall be reported to the appropriate law enforcement agency.
Policy on Use of Metal Detectors Section I. Purpose In view of the escalating presence of weapons in school and communities across the nation and locally, the use of hand held metal detectors to minimize the risk of weapons in the School is determined to be an appropriate technique to enhance school security, while striking a balance between the rights of the individual student and the safety of the student population and staff. This Policy sets forth the Schools position on the use of metal detectors. Section II. Searches In order to maintain a safe learning environment, the School will exercise the right to conduct searches of students and their belongings as frequently as the Administration deems appropriate, which may include the use of metal detectors. Section III. Restrictions No person shall selectively use a metal detector on one student or a non-randomly selected group of students except: 1. On reasonable suspicion that a weapon will be found 2. Due to reasonable, personal fear based on circumstances past or present that a weapon may be present. Metal detectors may be used randomly, without suspicion, at times determined by the PRINCIPAL or designee or as otherwise prescribed by the School, or for minor reasonable suspicion on a selective basis. It shall be the obligation of the person conducting the exercise to be able to explain to the satisfaction of the PRINCIPAL or designee, if called upon to do so, that no bias entered into the selection process. All persons entering the School may be required to submit to a metal detector test. When a detector is in use at a particular location and a person attempts to avoid using that location, it shall be considered sufficient cause to immediately detain and search the person. A persons failure or refusal to permit a metal detector check as provided for in this policy will be considered for disciplinary action, including possible expulsion. In the event a detector indicates that dense metal is present on or about the students person, the employee shall, if safely feasible, request the student to indicate what metal is causing the alarm and to remove such objects for inspection. If the student then clears the detection process without activating the alarm, the detection process shall terminate.
If the student cannot be safely allowed to remove the offending metal or, having been ordered to do so and fails, the continuation of the alarm from the detector shall constitute full probable cause to conduct a pat-down or frisk of the student sufficient to locate a weapon, if one were present. If deemed necessary for the safety of students and staff, administration may request the presence and support from law enforcement. Under all circumstances, the pat-down search shall be conducted by personnel of the same sex as the student, and in the presence of an adult witness of the same sex as the student. All property removed from the student or his/her belongings as a result of the above procedure which may be legitimately brought onto school premises shall be promptly returned to the student. All property removed from the student or his/her belongings, possessions which are a violation of this and any school policy shall be confiscated and the student shall be subject to discipline.
Terroristic Acts Policy Section I. Purpose Terroristic threats and acts by students present a danger to the safety and welfare of Charter School students and staff. This Policy sets forth the position of the Board regarding an immediate and effective response to a situation involving such a threat or act. Section II. Definitions Terroristic Threat: means a threat to commit violence communicated with the intent to terrorize another; to cause evacuation of a building; or to cause serious public inconvenience, in reckless disregard to the risk of causing such terror or inconvenience. Terroristic Act: means an offense against property or involving danger to another person. Competent and Credible Evidence: means evidence based on supporting data received by the administrators and/or the recommendation of a certified clinical psychologist or psychiatrist. Section III. Authority The Board prohibits any student from communicating terroristic threats or committing terroristic acts directed at any student, employee, Board member, community member or school building. Section IV. Delegation of Responsibility The Board directs the Principal to react promptly and appropriately to information and knowledge concerning a possible or actual terroristic threat or act. The PRINCIPAL or designee shall be responsible for developing administrative procedures to implement this policy. Staff members and students shall be responsible for informing the PRINCIPAL regarding any information or knowledge relevant to a possible or actual terroristic threat or act. The PRINCIPAL shall immediately inform the Board after receiving a report of such a threat. Section V. Guidelines When the PRINCIPAL has evidence that a student has made a terroristic threat or committed a terroristic act, the following guidelines shall be applied: 1. The PRINCIPAL may immediately suspend the student.
2. Dependent upon the gravity of the threat or act, the PRINCIPAL may signal the implementation of an Evacuation Plan. 3. The PRINCIPAL shall promptly report the incident to the Board President. 4. A substantiated report shall subject such student to disciplinary action, consistent with the student discipline code, and may include educational activities and/or counseling. 5. Based on the investigation results of the threat or the gravity of the act, the PRINCIPAL may report the student to law enforcement agencies. 6. Should the evidence warrant, the PRINCIPAL shall recommend expulsion of the student to the Board. 7. Should a student be expelled for making terroristic threats or committing terroristic acts, the Board may require, prior to readmission, that the student provide competent and credible evidence as indicated by a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist that the student does not pose a risk of harm to others and self. 8. If it is concluded that another student has made a deliberately false report regarding a terroristic threat or act, such student shall be subject to disciplinary action, consistent with the discipline code. 9. In the case of exceptional students, the Charter School will take all steps necessary to comply with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and follow board policy.
Any student who aids and abets another student in making terroristic threats and/or committing a terroristic act shall, for the purposes of this policy, be subject to disciplinary actions as though s/he was the actor.
Hazing Policy Section I. Purpose The purpose of this policy is to maintain a safe, positive environment for students and staff that is free from hazing. Hazing activities of any type are inconsistent with the educational goals of the Charter School and are prohibited at all times. Section II. Definitions For the purposes of this policy, hazing is defined as any activity that recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental health, physical health or safety of a student or causes willful destruction or removal of public or private property for the purpose of initiation or membership in or affiliation with any organization recognized by the Board. Endanger the physical health shall include but not be limited to any brutality of a physical nature, such as whipping, beating, branding, forced calisthenics, exposure to the elements, forced consumption of any food or beverage including alcohol, drugs or controlled substances, or other forced physical activity that could adversely affect the physical health or safety of the individual. Endanger the mental health shall include any activity that would subject an individual to extreme mental stress, such as prolonged sleep deprivation, forced prolonged exclusion from social contact, forced conduct which could result in embarrassment, or any other forced activity which could adversely affect the mental health or dignity of the individual. Any hazing activity, whether by an individual or a group, shall be presumed to be a forced activity, even if the student willingly participates. Section III. Authority The Board does not condone any form of initiation or harassment, known as hazing, as part of any school sponsored school activity. No student, coach, sponsor, volunteer or school employee shall plan, direct, encourage, assist or engage in any kind of hazing activity. SC 510 The Board directs that no administrator, coach, sponsor, volunteer or school employee shall permit, condone, or tolerate any form of hazing. The Charter School will investigate complaints of hazing and will administer appropriate discipline to any individual who violates this policy. Section IV. Delegation of Authority Administrators shall investigate promptly all complaints of hazing and administer appropriate discipline to any individual who violates this policy. Students, administrators, coaches, sponsors, volunteers and school employees shall be alert to incidents of hazing and shall report such conduct to the PRINCIPAL or designee. The Charter School shall annually inform students, parents, coaches, sponsors, volunteers and school staff that hazing of the Charter School students is prohibited by means of: 1. Publication in handbooks 2. Verbal instructions by all staff in all activities Section V. Guidelines The following shall be used as the Board approved complaint procedure: 1. When a student believes that s/he has been subject to hazing, the student shall promptly report the incident, orally or in writing, to the PRINCIPAL or designee. 2. The PRINCIPAL or designee shall conduct a timely, impartial, thorough and comprehensive investigation of the alleged hazing. 3. The PRINCIPAL or designee shall prepare a written report summarizing the investigation and recommending disposition of the complaint. Copies of the report shall be provided to the complainant, the accused and others directly involved as appropriate. 4. If the investigation results in a substantiated finding of hazing, the PRINCIPAL or designee shall recommend appropriate disciplinary action, as circumstances warrant, in accordance with the Code of Conduct. Additionally a student may be subject to disciplinary action by the coach or activity sponsor up to and including removal from the activity.
If the investigation results in a substantiated finding that a coach or sponsor affiliated with the activity planned, directed, encouraged, assisted, condoned or ignored any form of hazing, s/he will be disciplined appropriately. Discipline could include dismissal from the position as coach or sponsor.
Grievances/Due Process Procedures for Parents and Students
CS adheres to procedural safeguards addressing due process procedures for parents and students that meet the following requirements.
A. General Responsibility Of the Charter School CS establishes, implements and publishes written procedural safeguards that meet the requirements of 34 CFR 300.500-300.576 and all other applicable requirements of these or other Pennsylvania educational rules and standards. B. Prior Notice; Parent Consent 1.Notice Written notice which meets the requirements of XIII (C) is given to the parent(s) of a student with a disability a reasonable time before CS proposes to initiate or change the identification, evaluation, or educational placement of the student or the provisions of FAPE to the student; refuses to initiate or change the identification, evaluation, or educational placement of the student or the provisions of FAPE to the student; or refuses to initiate or change the identification, evaluation, or educational placement of, or services to, a student who may need gifted services. 2.Consent. a. Parental consent is obtained before conducting an initial evaluation and initial delivery of services to a student with a disability in a program providing special education and related services. Consent for an initial evaluation may not be construed as consent for initial placement. b. Parental consent is not required before reviewing existing data as part of an evaluation or a reevaluation, or administering a test or other evaluation that is administered to all students unless, before administration of that test or evaluation, consent is required of all parents. 3.Procedures Where Parents Refuse Consent. a. Where a parent(s) refuses consent to identify, evaluate or provide services to a student with a disability, CS uses the impartial due process hearing procedures specified in XIII (H) to determine if the student may be evaluated or initially provided special education and related services without parental consent. b. If the hearing officer upholds CS, we may evaluate or initially provide special education and related services to the student without the parent's consent subject to the parent rights of appeal under the due process procedures. c. Informed parental consent need not be obtained for reevaluation if CS demonstrates it has taken reasonable measures to obtain that consent by using procedures consistent with those in 34 CFR 300.345(d) and the students parent has failed to respond. d. CS may not use a parents refusal to consent to one service or activity for which consent is required to deny the parent or student any other service, benefit or activity of the public agency, except as required by 34 CFR Part 300.
C. Content Of Notice 1. The notice under XIII (B) includes: a. A full explanation of the procedural safeguards available to the parent(s) under II, VIII, XII, XIII and XIV; b. A description of the action proposed or refused by CS, an explanation of why we propose or refuse to take the action and a description of any options CS considered and the reasons why those options were rejected; c. A description of each evaluation procedure, test, record or report CS uses as a basis for the proposal or refusal; and d. A description of any other factors that is relevant to the proposal or refusal. 2. CS communicates with parents in understandable language, including the parents native language or other mode of communication if necessary for understanding, in IEP meetings, in written notices and in obtaining consent where consent is required. 3. If the native language or other mode of communication of the parent(s) is not a written language, CS takes steps to insure that: the notice is translated orally or by other means to the parent(s) in his or her native language or other mode of communication; the parent(s) understands the content of the notice; and there is written documentation that the requirements in this paragraph have been met.
D. Opportunity To Examine Records CS affords the parent(s) of a student with a disability an opportunity to inspect and review all education records with respect to the identification, evaluation and delivery of educational services to the student and the provision of a free appropriate public education to the student.
E. Independent Educational Evaluation 1.General. a. The parent(s) of a student with a disability has the right to obtain an independent educational evaluation of the student subject to (2) through (5) of this paragraph. b. CS provides to the parent(s), on request, information about where an independent educational evaluation may be obtained. 2. Parent Right to Evaluation at Public Expense. A parent(s) has the right to an independent educational evaluation at public expense if the parent(s) disagrees with an evaluation obtained by CS. However, CS may initiate a hearing to demonstrate that its evaluation is appropriate. If through a hearing the final decision is that the CS evaluation is appropriate, the parent(s) still has the right to an independent educational evaluation, but not at public expense. 1. Parent Initiated Evaluations. If the parent(s) obtains an independent educational evaluation at private expense, the results of the evaluation: a. are considered by CS in any decision(s) made with respect to the provision of a free appropriate public education to the student; and b. may be presented as evidence at a hearing under XIII regarding that student.
2. Requests for Evaluations by Hearing Officers. If a hearing officer requests an independent educational evaluation as part of a hearing, the cost of the evaluation is at public expense. 3. Agency Criteria. Whenever an independent educational evaluation is at public expense, the criterion under which the evaluation is obtained, including the location of the evaluation and the qualifications of the examiner(s), must be the same as the criteria that CS uses when it initiates an evaluation.
F. Complaint 1. Individuals and organizations have the right to file a complaint alleging the failure of the PDE or CS to comply with federal statutes or regulations applicable to federal education programs subject to the IDEA, (34 CFR Part 300.660-300.662) 2. The complaint must: a. Be written; b. Be signed by the complaining party or his or her designated representative; c. Contain a statement that the PDE or CS has violated a requirement of a federal statute or regulation that applies to a program; and d. Contain a statement of the facts forming the basis of the complaint including effort(s), if any to resolve the complaint. e. The complaint must allege a violation that occurred not more than one year prior to the date the complaint is received by the PDE unless a longer period is reasonable because the violation is continuing or the complainant is requesting compensatory services for a violation that occurred not more than three years prior to the date the complaint is received by the PDE.
G. Impartial Due Process Hearing 1. A parent(s) or CS may initiate a hearing on any of the matters described in XIII (B). 2. The hearing must be conducted in accordance with the procedures established below. 3. CS informs the parent(s) of any free or low-cost legal and other relevant services available in the area if the parent(s) requests the information.
H. Impartial Due Process Hearing Procedures 1. A parent(s) or guardian initiating an impartial due process hearing shall transmit written notice of the request to the CS Principal or designee and to the State Superintendent of Public Instruction. When CS initiates an impartial due process hearing, it shall transmit written notice of the request to the parent(s) or guardian and to the State Superintendent of Public Instruction.
2. The written request shall state specifically the nature of the dispute and shall include: a. The name of the student; b. The address of the residence of the student; c. The name of the school the student is attending; d. The name of the public agency, if known; e. The name, address and telephone number(s) of the party making the request and, if the party is represented by an attorney or advocate, the name, address and telephone number(s) of the attorney or advocate; f. A description of the nature of the problem of the student relating to the proposed or refused initiation or change, including facts relating to the problem; and g. A proposed resolution of the problem to the extent known and available to the parents at the time. 3. A request for an expedited hearing must include a statement of facts sufficient to show that a requesting parent is entitled to an expedited hearing under 34 CFR 300.525 or 300.527 or that a requesting public agency is entitled to an expedited hearing under 34 CFR 300.521 or 300.526. 4. A parent(s) may request an expedited hearing to review any decision regarding placement or a determination that a students behavior for which a disciplinary change of placement is proposed is not a manifestation of the students disability. CS may request an expedited hearing to place a student in an alternative educational setting when the current placement is likely to result in injury to the student or to others, or to change the current placement of a student while awaiting a due process hearing or appeal. 5. A request for a hearing must be in writing and signed and dated by the parent or the authorized CS representative. An oral request made by a parent who is unable to communicate by writing shall be reduced to writing by CS and signed by the parent. 6. A request for hearing filed by or on behalf of a party who is represented by an attorney or advocate shall include a sufficient statement authorizing the representation. A written statement on a clients behalf that is signed by an attorney who is subject to discipline by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court for a misrepresentation shall constitute a sufficient authorization. Representation by other advocates must be specifically authorized in writing signed by the party being represented. 7. Upon receipt of a written request for due process that meets the above requirements, the PDE shall: a. Appoint a qualified and impartial hearing officer who meets the requirements of 34 CFR 300.508; b. Appoint a qualified and impartial mediator pursuant to 34 CFR 300.506 to offer mediation services to the parties; c. Inform the parent in writing of any free or low-cost legal and other relevant services available in the area. PDE shall also make this information available whenever requested by a parent; and d. Inform the parent that in any action or proceeding brought under 20 USC Sec. 1415, a state or federal court, in its discretion and subject to the further provisions of Sec. 1415(i) and 34 CFR Sec. 300.513, may award reasonable attorneys' fees as part of the costs to the parents of a child with a disability who is the prevailing party; 8. Pursuant to timelines and convenience of hearings, the PDE also insures that: a. A list of the persons who serve as hearing officers and a statement of their qualifications is maintained; b. Another hearing officer will be appointed if the initially appointed hearing officer excuses himself or herself from service; c. Mediation is considered as voluntary and is not used to deny or delay a parent's right to a hearing; d. Within forty-five (45) days of receipt by the Department of the written request for a due process hearing, a final written decision is reached and a copy transmitted to the parties, unless one or more specific extensions of time have been granted by the hearing officer at the request of either party; e. Following the decision, PDE shall, after deleting any personally identifiable information, transmit the findings and decision to the State IDEA Advisory Panel and make them available to the public upon request.
I. Mediation And Alternative Dispute Resolution Mediation is a process available in disputes concerning the identification, evaluation and delivery of educational services to students with disabilities and the provision of a free appropriate public education to those students. Trained mediators or CS personnel not previously involved in the particular case may conduct mediation. In many cases, mediation leads to resolution of differences between the parent(s) and CS without the development of an adversarial relationship and with minimal emotional stress. However, mediation is not used to deny or delay a parent's rights under XIII. 1. The mediation shall be completed not later than 14 days after the assignment of the mediator, unless the hearing officer as set forth in the following subsection grants an extension. 2. Except for expedited hearings, either party to the mediation process may request that the hearing officer grant a specific extension of time for the pre-hearing conference and/or for completion of the hearing beyond the 45-day period for issuance of the hearing decision. The hearing officer may grant such extensions in a regular case but may not exceed the 45-day deadline in an expedited case. 3. Each session in the mediation process must be scheduled in a timely manner and must be held in a location that is convenient to the parties to the dispute. 4. Discussions that occur during the mediation process must be confidential and may not be used as evidence in any subsequent due process hearings or civil proceedings, and the parties to the mediation process may be required to sign a confidentiality pledge prior to the commencement of the process. 5. An agreement reached by the parties to the dispute in the mediation process must be set forth in a written mediation agreement. The mediator shall transmit a copy of the written mediation agreement to each party within seven days of the meeting at which the agreement was concluded. A mediation agreement involving a claim or issue that later goes to a due process hearing may be received in evidence if the hearing officer rules that part or all of the agreement is relevant to one or more IDEA issues that are properly before the hearing officer for decision. 6. Upon resolution of the dispute, the party who requested the due process hearing shall transmit a written notice informing the hearing officer and the Department that the matter has been resolved and withdrawing the request for hearing. The hearing officer shall transmit an appropriate order of dismissal to the parties and the Department. 7. The resolution of disputes by mutual agreement is strongly encouraged and nothing in these rules shall be interpreted as prohibiting the parties from engaging in settlement discussions at any time before, during or after a mediation session, a due process hearing or an administrative or judicial appeal. 8. A party may unilaterally withdraw a request for due process at any time before a decision is issued. A written withdrawal that is transmitted to the hearing officer and the other party at least two business days before a scheduled hearing shall be without prejudice to the partys right to file a later request on the same claims, which shall ordinarily be assigned to the same hearing officer. A withdrawal that is transmitted or communicated within two business days of the scheduled hearing shall ordinarily be with prejudice to the partys right to file a later request on the same claim unless the hearing officer orders otherwise for good cause shown. A withdrawal that is entered during or after the hearing but before a decision is issued shall be with prejudice. In any event, the hearing officer shall enter an appropriate order of dismissal.
J. Pre-Hearing Procedures Unless extended by the hearing officer at the request of a party, within 14 days of appointment and as soon as is reasonably practicable in an expedited case the hearing officer shall conduct a pre- hearing conference with the parent and the public agency to: 1. Identify all issues to be decided at the hearing and the relief sought. The hearing shall be limited to the issues identified unless the hearing officer, upon a determination of good cause, accepts new issues; 2. Establish the hearing officer's jurisdiction over IDEA issues, concurrent 504 issues and gifted issues; 3. Determine the status of mediation between the parties; 4. Review the hearing rights of both parties, as set forth in section K below, including reasonable accommodations to address an individual's need for an interpreter at public expense; 5. Review the procedures for conducting the hearing; 6. Set a date, time and place for the hearing that is reasonably convenient to the parents and CS personnel involved; 7. Ascertain whether the student who is the subject of the hearing will be present and whether the hearing will be open to the public; 8. Set the date by which any documentary evidence intended to be used at the hearing by the parties must be exchanged. The hearing officer shall further inform the parties that, at least 5 business days before a regular hearing or, if the hearing officer so directs, at least 2 business days before an expedited hearing, each party shall disclose to the other party all evaluations completed by that date and recommendations based on the evaluations that the party intends to use at the hearing. The hearing officer may bar any party that fails to disclose such documentary evidence, evaluation(s) or recommendation(s) by the deadline from introducing the evidence at the hearing without the consent of the other party; 9. As appropriate, determine the current educational placement of the student pursuant to subsection O student status below; 10. Exchange lists of witnesses and as appropriate, entertain a request from a party to issue an administrative order compelling the attendance of a witness(es) at the hearing; 11. Address other relevant issues and motions; and 12. Determine the method for having a written, or at the option of the parent, electronic verbatim record of the hearing. CS shall be responsible for arranging for the verbatim record of the hearing. 13. The hearing officer shall transmit to the parties and the PDE a written summary of the pre- hearing conference. The summary shall include, but not be limited to, the date, time and place of the hearing, any pre-hearing decisions, and any orders from the hearing officer.
K. Impartial Hearing Officer 1. The hearing officer shall excuse himself or herself from serving in a hearing in which he or she believes a personal or professional bias or interest exists which conflicts with his or her objectivity. 2. The hearing officer shall: a. Schedule a pre-hearing conference within 14 days of appointment pursuant to pre-hearing requirements above; b. Reach a decision, which shall include written findings of fact, conclusions of law and reasons for these findings and conclusions and shall be based solely on evidence presented at the hearing; and c. Transmit the decision to the parties and to the State Superintendent of Public Instruction within 45 days of the receipt of the request for hearing by the State Superintendent, unless the hearing officer, at the request of a party to the hearing, has granted a specific extension of time. For an expedited hearing, no extensions or exceptions beyond the 45-day deadline are permitted. d. The hearing officer may reopen the record for further proceedings at any time prior to reaching a final decision after transmitting appropriate notice to the parties. The hearing is considered closed and final when the written decision is transmitted to the parties and to the State Superintendent of Public Instruction. e. The decision of the hearing officer is final unless a party requests an administrative appeal as set forth below. L. Hearing Rights 1. Each hearing involving oral arguments must be conducted at a time and place that is reasonably convenient to the parents, student and CS personnel involved. 2. Any party to a hearing has the right to: a. Be accompanied and advised by counsel and by an individual with special knowledge or training with respect to the needs of students with disabilities; b. Present evidence and confront, cross-examine and compel the attendance of witnesses; c. Prohibit the introduction of any evidence at the hearing that has not been disclosed to that party at least five (5) business days before a regular hearing or, if the hearing officer so directs in the pre-hearing summary, at least 2 business days before an expedited hearing; d. Obtain a written or, electronic, verbatim record of the hearing; and e. Obtain written findings or electronic findings of fact and decisions. f. Have the student who is the subject of the hearing present; and g. Open the hearing to the public. 3. The record of the hearing and the findings of fact and decisions will be provided at no cost to parents.
M. Hearing Decision; Appeal The decision of the hearing officer is binding upon the parent and upon CS, its employees and agents unless a party aggrieved by the findings and decision in the hearing appeals the decision to the State Superintendent of Public Instruction for an administrative review.
N. Civil Action Any party aggrieved by the decision of an administrative appeal officer in an IDEA matter has the right to bring a civil action in a state or federal district court pursuant to 20 USC Sec. 1415(i), 34 CFR Sec. 300.512 and any other applicable state or federal laws or rules. A party aggrieved by the decision of an administrative appeal officer in a matter relating solely to the identification, evaluation, educational placement of or services to a child who may need gifted services may bring a civil action in a state court of appropriate jurisdiction within a period of time determined by applicable court rules.
O. Student's Status During Proceedings 1. During the dependency of any administrative or judicial proceeding regarding a hearing, unless the CS and the parent(s) of the student agree otherwise, the delivery of services will continue for the student involved in the hearing. 2. If the hearing involves an application for initial admission to public school, the student with the consent of the parent(s) will be placed in the public school program until the completion of all the proceedings. 3. If a hearing officer or an administrative appeal officer agrees with the students parents that a change of placement is appropriate, that placement must be treated as an agreement between CS and the parents for purposes of paragraph (1) of this section.
P. Attorney's Fees 1. CS will inform parent(s) that in any action or proceeding under these procedural safeguards, the courts may award parent(s) reasonable attorney's fees if the parent(s) prevails in the proceeding. 2. Hearing officers and administrative appeal officers are not authorized to award attorneys fees. 3. Attorneys fees are not recoverable for actions or proceedings involving services to gifted students or other claims based solely on state law.
Q. Surrogate Parents 1. CS shall insure that a qualified surrogate parent is appointed in compliance with 34 CFR Sec. 300.515 when needed to protect the rights of a student with a disability who is within the agencys educational jurisdiction. A surrogate parent need not be appointed if a person who qualifies as a parent pursuant to 34 CFR . 300.20(b) and .7B (12) can be identified. 2. A foster parent who meets all requirements of 34 CFR Sec. 300.20(b) may be treated as the students parent pursuant to that regulation. A foster parent who does not meet those requirements but meets all requirements of 34 CFR Sec. 300.515 may be appointed as a surrogate parent if CS that is responsible for the appointment deems such action appropriate. 3. Pursuant to 34 CFR Sec. 300.515, a surrogate parent may represent the student in all matters relating to the identification, evaluation and educational placement of the student and the provision of FAPE to the child.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES Section: Programs Title: Positive Behavior Support Plan Date Adopted: Revised on: Section I. Purpose A behavior support plan shall be developed for any student whose behavior is impeding his/her learning and/or the learning of others.
Section II. Authority Application of the behavior support plan shall not constitute a change in the students educational placement. It is imperative that causes of the students behavior problems be addressed prior to the development of a behavior support plan through a functional behavior assessment. In the behavior support plan, positive techniques must be used to improve the students opportunity for learning and achievement of academic standards established for the program.
Section III. Definitions 1. Aversive techniques deliberate activities designated to establish a negative association with a specific behavior. 2. Behavior support - development, change and maintenance of selected behaviors through the systematic application of behavior techniques. 3. Positive techniques methods that utilize positive reinforcement to shape a students behavior, Ranging from the use of positive statements as a reward for good behaviors to specific tangible rewards. 4. Restraints techniques designed and used to control acute or episodic aggressive behaviors or to control involuntary movements or lack of muscular control due to organic causes or conditions; the term includes physical and mechanical restraints.
Section IV. Guidelines The Charter School policy on positive behavior support for students with disabilities is as follows: 1. Positive techniques for the development, change and maintenance of selected behaviors shall be attempted prior to the use of more intrusive or restraining measures. 2. Restraints to control acute or episodic aggressive behavior may be used only when the student is acting in a manner that is a clear and present danger to him/herself or other students or employees, and only when less restrictive measures and techniques have proven to be less effective. The use of restraints to control the aggressive behavior of an individual student shall warrant a meeting of the IEP Team to review the current IEP and PBSP for appropriateness and effectiveness. The use of restraints may not be included in the IEP for the convenience of staff, as a substitute for an educational program or employed as punishment. 3. Mechanical restraints that are used to control involuntary movement or lack of muscular control of students due to organic causes or conditions may be employed when specified tan by an IEP, as determined by a medical professional qualified to make the determination, and as agreed to by the students parents/guardians. Mechanical restraints shall prevent a student from injuring him/herself or others or promote normative body positioning and physical functioning.
Consent of a parent/guardian is required prior to the use of highly restraining or intrusive procedures. If deemed necessary, The Charter School may convene a human rights committee to oversee the use of restraining or intrusive procedures and restraints.
PA Code Title 22. The following aversive techniques of handling behavior may not be used in educational programs: 1. Corporal punishment. 2. Punishment for a manifestation of a students disability. 3. Locked rooms, locked boxes, other locked structures or spaces from which the student Cannot readily exit. 4. Noxious substances. 5. Deprivation of basic human rights, such as withholding meals, water or fresh air. 6. Serial suspensions. 7. Treatment of demeaning nature. 8. Electric shock. 9. Methods implemented by untrained personnel. 10. Methods that have not been outlined in the plan.
The following terms shall have these meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:
BOARD OF TRUSTEES Section: Programs Title: Discipline of Students with Disabilities Date Adopted: Revised on: Section I. Purpose When necessary, behavior support programs shall be developed and maintained for students with disabilities in order to promote and strengthen desirable behavior and reduce identified inappropriate behavior. Section II. Authority Students with disabilities who engage in inappropriate behaviors, disruptive or prohibited activities, and/or actions injurious to themselves or others shall be disciplined in accordance with the Individualized Education Plan (IEP), behavior support plan and Board policy. The Board directs that The Charter School shall comply with provisions of the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) and federal and state regulations when disciplining students with disabilities for violations of The Charter School policy or school rules and regulations. No student with a disability shall be expelled if the students particular misconduct is a manifestation of his/her disability. 20 U.S.C. Sec. 1400 et seq 34 CFR 300.519-300.529 Title 22 Sec. 14.143
Section III. Guidelines A student with a disability may be suspended for ten (10) consecutive days or fifteen (15) cumulative days of school per school year, regardless of whether the students behavior is a manifestation of his/her disability. Title 22 Sec. 14.143 Any removal from school is a change of placement for a student identified with mental retardation. Title 22 Sec. 14.143 A student with a disability whose behavior is not a manifestation of his/her disability may be expelled pursuant to the Charter School policy and procedures. 34 CFR 300.524 A hearing officer may order removal of a student with a disability to an alternative setting for forty-five (45) days where The Charter School demonstrates by substantial evidence that maintaining the students current placement is substantially likely to result in injury to the student or others. 34 CFR 300.521, 300.522
Students who have not been identified as disabled may be subject to the same disciplinary measures applied to students without disabilities if the district did not have knowledge of the disability. If a request for evaluation is made during the period the student is subject to disciplinary measures, the evaluation shall be expedited. 34 CFR 300.527, 300.528
Weapons Violations A student with a disability who carries a weapon to school or a school function may be removed from his/her current placement. The student shall be placed in an appropriate interim alternative educational setting for no more than forty-five (45) days. 34 CFR 300.520 18 U.S.C. Sec. 930(g)
Drugs/Controlled Substances Violations
A student with a disability who knowingly possesses or uses illegal drugs or sells or solicits the sale of a controlled substance while at school or a school function may be removed from his/her current placement. The student shall be placed in an appropriate interim alternative educational setting for no more than forty-five (45) days. 34 CFR 300.520
BOARD OF TRUSTEES Section: Students Title: Attendance Date Adopted: Revised on: Section I. Purpose The Board requires that school-aged students enrolled in The Charter School attend school regularly, in accordance with law. Regular attendance is necessary to insure the continuity of the educational process. Regularity of attendance is desirable in developing proper habits, the feeling of mastery through success, interest in school, a sense of responsibility, and those important character building aspects of the molding process on young life which have a definite effect upon later life. It is essential that parents and school authorities plan for anticipated absences together whenever possible. This will assure fulfillment of the schools aim to help students plan and accept responsibility for their actions. Students returning to school after absences shall present a written excuse, completed by the parent/guardian, to the classroom teacher or attendance clerk. Section II. Definition Regular attendance shall be defined as attending school for the full day each day during which school is in session. Students are expected to attend all sessions unless properly excused by school authorities. Section III. Authority Attendance shall be required of all students enrolled in The Charter School during the days and hours that school is in session except that the Principal or designee may excuse a student for temporary absences when receiving satisfactory evidence of mental, physical or other urgent reasons that may reasonably cause the students absence. All requests for school excusal are subject to confirmation with the parent or guardian. The Board considers the following conditions to constitute reasonable cause for excused absence or excused tardiness from school: 1. Illness 2. Quarantine 3. Death in the Family 4. Impassable roads/adverse road conditions due to weather 5. Pre-arranged doctor or dentist appointments 6. Required court attendance 7. Pre-approved educational trips or tours 8. Pre-approved college visits 9. Religious Holidays 10. Religious instruction 11. Student competition at State and National competitions/events
Attendance need not always be within school facilities. A student will be considered in attendance if present at any place where school is in session by the authority of the Board; the student is receiving approved tutorial instruction or health care or therapeutic services; the student is engaged in an approved and properly supervised independent study, work-study or career education program; the student is receiving approved homebound instruction. The Board shall permit a student to be excused for participation in a project sponsored by a statewide, county wide or city group such as the 4-H, FFA or combined 4-H and FFA group upon written request prior to the event. The Board shall excuse the following student from the requirements of attendance at The Charter School: 1. On certification by a physician or submission of other satisfactory evidence and on approval of the Department of Education, children who are unable to attend school or apply themselves to study for medical, physical or other reasons that preclude regular attendance 2. Students 14 and 15 years old who have completed 6 th grade and are engaged in farm work or private domestic service under duly issued permits.
The Board may excuse the following students from requirements of attendance at The Charter School: 1. Students receiving tutorial instruction in a field not offered in The Charter Schools curricula from a properly qualified tutor approved by the Principal or designee when the excusal does not interfere with the students regular program of studies 2. Homebound students unable to attend on the recommendation of the school physician and the school psychologist or a school psychiatrist and approval of the Secretary of Education
Unexcused and Unlawful Absences 1. The Board may report to the appropriate authorities infractions of the law regarding the attendance of students below the age of 17. The Board shall issue notice to those parents and guardians who fail to comply with the statutory requirements of compulsory attendance that such infractions will be prosecuted according to the law. 2. When a child is absent their parent is notified that same day by the One Call system. 3. If a child is absent two (2) consecutive days, the attendance officer will call the childs parent. 4. If a child is absent more than two (2) days, a home visit will be done by a representative or members of the school personnel. 5. The purpose of the home visit is to: a. Make contact with the family and establish a relationship with our parents. b. Identify the reason the child is absent from school. c. Eliminate barriers that are causing the child to miss school. 6. The team is able to eliminate barriers by: a. Providing the necessary resources for the child to arrive to school on time. b. Discuss transportation options if transportation is a barrier. c. Link families to service providers such as medical and counseling providers to address underlying causes of truancy. 7. The team will provide incentives for students that struggle with attendance.
First Day of Unlawful Absence 1. The parent/guardian will receive a phone call and written notice from the school including the legal penalties established by law for violation of the compulsory attendance requirements. 2. The school will include a contact name and number if the parent would like assistance.
Second Day of Unlawful Absence 1. The parent/guardian will receive a phone call and written notice from the school, including the legal penalties established by law for violation of the compulsory attendance requirements. 2. The school will include a contact name and number if the parent would like assistance. 3. The Charter School will inform the childs sending school district.
Third Day of Unlawful Absence 1. The parent/guardian will receive a certified notice from the sending school district including the legal penalties established by law for violation of the compulsory attendance requirements. 2. A Parent Conference will be scheduled. 3. York County Children and Youth may be contacted. 4. A Truancy Elimination Plan (TEP) will be developed. The goals of the Attendance and Truancy Intervention Plan are two-fold: a. To increase student achievement by decreasing student absenteeism and truancy. b. Eliminate barriers that are preventing children from attending school and provide supportive intervention services. c. To keep children in school and reduce the number of referrals to the court system, juvenile probation, and York County Children and Youth. d. To decrease students from dropping out of school. 5. The Charter School will inform the childs sending school district.
Subsequent Unlawful Absence 1. If the TEP has been signed OR if there is no plan signed and it has been three (3) days since the parents/guardians received the Third Day of Unlawful Absence notice OR if the child is unlawfully absent any other time during the school year, an official notice will be sent to the parent/guardian, informing the parent/guardian that the Truancy Intervention Plan or the Compulsory Attendance and Truancy Policy were violated. 2. Notification will be given to the sending school district who will request that the magisterial judge send a citation. 3. Should there be subsequent absences following the citation, all such absences are to be reported to the sending school district on a weekly basis. Continued parental contact will be made by The Charter School.
Unlawful Absence 1. An unlawful absence is any absence from school without permission of the parents and school authorities. 2. As determined by the Principal, a student who has been truant may not be permitted to make up work missed and may be required to make up times he/she was truant. 3. In accordance with 24 PS 13-3333 (PA School Law and Rules), the attendance officers will be the Principal or designee. 4. Any student who accumulates 10 days of absence (excused and unexcused) in a school year may be required to furnish verification of illness from a practitioner of the healing arts for subsequent days of absence. Failure to provide such verification will result in the absences being deemed unlawful and may be referred to Children and Youth Services. 5. Students who accumulate 30 days absence from any year length course or 10 days of a semester length course may be denied credit. The final decision shall be made by the Principal or designee after consultation with the teacher. 6. Any student who accumulates excessive unexcused absences will be subject to discipline up to and including expulsion from school. 7. A student 17 years of age, regardless of grade, who has been absent 10 school days (excused on unexcused) shall be reported to the Principal or designee. The student and his/her parents/guardians shall be informed in writing that all future absences must be excused and accompanied by a doctors excuse. If the student accumulates 3 additional unexcused absences after the 10 days, the student may be subject to suspension and/or recommendation for expulsion. 8. A student over the age of 17 who misses 10 consecutive days will be dropped from active roles in accordance with PA School Code.
Procedures The Principal or designee shall develop procedures for the attendance of students to: 1. Ensure a school session that conforms to requirements of state regulations 2. Distribute annually to staff, students, and parents/guardians Board policies and school rules and regulations governing student attendance, absences and excusals. 3. Govern the keeping of attendance record in accordance with state statutes. 4. Identify the habitual truant, investigate the causes of truant behavior and consider modification of the students educational program to meet particular needs and interests. 5. Ensure that students legally absent have an opportunity to make up work. The time allowed for make-up work is equal to the number of school days absent plus one school day. (This also applies to school-related absences, i.e., extracurricular events and field trips). Long term assignments will be due on the original date regardless if the absence is excused on unexcused. 6. Issue written notice to any parent or guardian who fails to comply with the compulsory attendance statue, within 3 days of any proceeding brought under that statute. Such notice shall inform the parent or guardian of the date(s) the absence occurred, that the absence was unexcused and in violation of law, that the parent/guardian is being notified and informed of his/her liability under the law for absence of the student, and that further violation during the school term will be prosecuted without notice. 7. Absence from school with parent/guardian consent for reasons other than those considered excusable, and excessive unexcused absences may result in disciplinary action and/or loss of credit. 8. Pre-arranged or planned absences on so-called skip days will not be approved under any circumstances and the student may not make up missed class work. Students reported ill on such days may be required to provide a doctors excuse to verify the illness. 9. Absences, which require documentation by school health personnel or a doctors excuse and the documentation is not provided will be classified as an unexcused and/or unlawful absence. 10. Absences for which a written explanation is required must be turned in within 5 days of the absence. 11. Repeated infractions of Board policy requiring the attendance of enrolled students may constitute misconduct and disobedience to warrant the students suspension or expulsion from the regular school program.
Educational Tours and Trips 1. The Board may excuse a student from school attendance to participate in an educational tour or trip not sponsored by The Charter School. 2. The Board may limit the number and duration of tours and trips for which absences may be granted to a student during the school term. Such tours and trips may not exceed 5 consecutive days and a cumulative 15 school days within a single school term. School days extending beyond the 5 th or 15 th cumulative day shall be coded as unexcused. Consideration of such a request is dependent on the following conditions: a. The purpose, itinerary, and supporting educational aspects must be clearly explained for justifying such an experience beyond the classroom. b. The approved educational trip must be family centered. Student participation must be under the direction and supervision of the parent/guardian or an approved adult. c. In order to have the absence recorded as excused, the trip itinerary must contain significant educational opportunities that could not otherwise be experienced by the student in the school setting or during school time when school is not in session. Trips with limited number of educational opportunities may be classified as unexcused by the Principal or designee. If an absence is defined as unexcused, but it is cleared in advance with the appropriate school officials, the student will be able to make up missed work. However, the accumulation of 3 or more days of unexcused absence is a violation of The Charter Schools policy. d. Such as request shall be made by the parent/guardian 5 school days prior to the students anticipated absence. e. Approval will be contingent upon the students academic progress, attendance record and on the students responsibility for keeping up with assignments during the trip. f. A school administrator shall review each request for compliance with the stated conditions. g. If approval is granted before the trip is taken, the students absence will be excused. If prior approval is not received, the absence will be classified as unlawful and/or unexcused. h. Should the students absence extend beyond the approved time, each additional day will be classified as unlawful. After 3 unlawful days, a written warning will be issued. Any additional unexcused or unlawful days beyond this trip may result in a fine. i. The student will be responsible for: i. Getting all assignments from his/her teachers before leaving on this trip ii. Completing all given assignments to the best of his/her ability prior to his/her return to school iii. Submitting all completed assignments to his/her teachers immediately upon return to school or as indicated by the assignment sheet. iv. Credit will not be given for incomplete work j. Prior to finalizing plans for an educational trip, parents/guardians need to consider the students academic record and attendance pattern. The educational benefits should always outweigh the negative effects associated with a disrupted instructional program. Regular class attendance is an important component of each students educational program. Prolonged absences or irregular attendance can significantly diminish the degree of success each student can realistically be expected to achieve.
Requirements for a Written Parental Explanation 1. Parents/guardians are required to submit a written explanation for the legal absence of their child within 3 school days of the absence. 2. The mere fact that a parent/guardian provides a written explanation does not qualify the absence as excused. The absence must be for a legal reason as determined by law. 3. When it is known that a parent(s)/guardian(s) cannot read or write, the Principal or designee may accept a verbal excuse. However, the verbal excuse shall be documented in writing as to the date of the absence, the reason and the name of the parent/guardian contacted. This documented note is to be signed by the person from the school who had contacted the parent. 4. Written excuses for absences shall be properly filled out and must be signed by the parent/guardian. A fax may be used to deliver a written excuse. Emailed excuses are not acceptable due to the inability to obtain a written signature. 5. If the dominant language in a students home is not English and the parents are able to read and write in another language, they shall be required to submit a written explanation in that language.
Releasing Students from School 1. Students shall be released from school only to their parents/guardians and/or persons authorized by their parents/guardians in writing. 2. Students shall be released to the care of either parent/guardian unless a court with a jurisdiction over The Charter School shall specify in a written court decree that custody lies with only one parent and/or some other designated guardian. Receipt of the court decree shall be the basis of determining the legal guardian of any student. Only those persons specified as legal guardians of a student are permitted to take a student from school during school hours. 3. In case of illness, injury or emergency that warrants immediate release: a. The school shall request on of the parents/guardians to pick up the student at school b. A parent/guardian unable to pick up an ill student should have previously designated a reliable adult on the emergency card to receive and care for a student. The school shall attempt to locate such person and request they receive the student and assume the parents role. c. A parent/guardian unable to pick up an ill student may indicate to the school officials by written excuse, fax or indicate an adult on the emergency card to whom the student may be released. d. A parent/guardian unable to pick up an ill student may indicate to the school officials by written excuse, fax or indicate an adult on the emergency card who may give permission for the student to be released from school under his/her own supervision. e. The school is not expected to transport a student home. However, in such circumstances when the school does provide transportation, it can only do so if and only if it has been determined that a parent or authorized adult will receive the student. 4. Students requested to be released from school during school hours by police or court officials will only be released provided the official presents a Court Order for such release. The school will advise the parents/guardians of the Court Order as soon as reasonable and the intention to release the student. 5. Students may be released from school for dental and/or medical appointments when such appointments are unable to be arranged on non-school time. A written request from the students parents/guardians is required. 6. Upon written request of the students parents/guardians, a student may be released for other purposes which are permitted under the Pennsylvania Public School Code. 7. All parents and/or authorized agents of a parent must sign a register in the main office indicating the date, time, and reason why the student was released from school. 8. No grade and/or class may be dismissed before the usual and customary dismissal hour without prior approval from the Principal or designee. 9. Student may not leave school prior to the appointed dismissal hour without the prior approval of the Principal or designee. Tardy
Excused Tardy Students are expected to be in school on time every day. However, there may be instances when the student must be late to school: 1. Illness 2. Doctor or dentist appointments 3. Family emergencies 4. Meeting with Children and Youth or Juvenile Probation 5. If a student is tardy for any of the above reasons, s/he must present a signed note from the parent/guardian, case worker or probation officer upon entering the building. 6. Two excused tardies equal one (1) excused absence. 7. Excused tardy days will accumulate the same as excused absences.
Unlawful Tardy 1. If a student is late for school and does not have a valid signed excuse note, the tardy will be considered unlawful. 2. Two unlawful tardies equal one (1) unlawful absence. 3. If two unlawful tardies occur within the school year, The Charter School will initiate the same procedure it does for an unlawful absence. Consequences As dictated by the state of Pennsylvania, consequences are dictated by the district magistrate. The Charter School does not determine consequences for unlawful absences. Pennsylvania law states the following consequences can be:
Parents/Guardians Every parent/guardian of any school age child may face penalties if attendance requirements are not met: 1. Fined up to $300 for each offense plus court costs 2. Complete a parenting education program 3. Serve up to five (5) days in the county jail for not paying the fine 4. Community service within the school district of no more than six (6) months
Child If the parents/guardians took every reasonable step to insure the childs attendance and the child has reached the age of thirteen (13), the child may be: 1. Fined to $300 for each offense or assigned to an alternative education program 2. Assessed by York County Children and Youth for residential placement if the fine isnt paid or the child is not successful in alternative education 3. Referred for services or placement if the child continues to be habitually truant A child who is under thirteen (13) years of age and is habitually truant will be referred for services and possible placement out of the home. A child who is thirteen (13) to seventeen (17) years of age and is habitually truant may be referred for services and possible placement out of the home.
Any age child convicted of violating attendance requirements by a magistrate or court must send a certified record of the conviction or other disposition to the Department of Transportation. 1. First offense: If the child has a drivers license, it will be suspended for ninety (90) days 2. Second or subsequent offenses: If the child has a drivers license, it will be suspended for six (6) months 3. A child who does not have a drivers license will not be able to apply for one for ninety (90) days for the first offense and six (6) months for the second and subsequent offenses.
In addition to those consequences outlined above, The Charter School will issue the following consequences to students who are illegally tardy. 1. 1st Illegal Tardy - Verbal warning/ Phone call to parent. 2. 2nd Illegal Tardy - Verbal warning/ Phone call to parent/ Illegal absence reported 3. 3rd Illegal Tardy - School Detention/ Phone call to parent 4. 4th Illegal Tardy School Detention / Parent Conference 5. Every illegal tardy after the 4th will result in a school detention and will require a parent conference or a home visit. 6. The Charter School tardy consequences will be cleared for reprimands internally every marking period and will revert back to zero. Pennsylvania Law dictates how The Charter School must report absences to the sending district. Please see illegal absence reporting and citations for further information.
Tardy Procedures Students reporting tardy will sign in at the office as they arrive. 1. Personnel entering attendance will report students arriving tardy and the number of times the student has arrived illegally tardy to school. 2. Deans and School Principals will track this information daily. Deans will enter tardy consequences into the student database on a daily basis. 3. Students that are illegally tardy will be indicated on the daily attendance sheet.
Truancy Elimination Plan
Procedures: 1. After the third unexcused absence occurs the TEP is created. 2. School Counselor, Family Liaison, and attendance officer along with the parent and student will be a part of all TEP meetings. Other agencies and invested parties should be invited as needed. During the meeting it will be determined who will follow-up with the child after the plan is implemented. 3. The attendance officer will meet weekly with the building administrator to communicate students with attendance concerns, New TEPs, and current TEP progress. 4. Attendance Officer will send a bi-weekly updated excel to guidance and leadership detailing students on TEPs and their progress. 5. The attendance officer will monitor and report on each student TEPs. She/He will get assistance as needed with individual students as needed from the building administrator. 6. The attendance officer will monitor and report on the follow-up on TEP students.
Participation in School Activities 1. Any student participating in extracurricular activities must be present during the school day. Exceptions for this rule are approved absences.
Children of Separated/Divorced Parents 1. In the event that a separated/divorced parent having custody of a child desire that the child not be released in the care of the other parent, the school will comply with his/her wishes, provided s/he files with the school a copy of the court order authorizing his/her custody.
Religious Excusal 1. All absences occasioned by the observance of religious holidays, as designated by the Department of Education, of the students religion shall be excused. No student so excused shall be deprived of an award or eligibility to compete for an award or the opportunity to make up a test given on a religious holiday. 2. The school shall, upon written request from the parents/guardians, release from attendance a student participating in a religious instructional program. Such instruction shall not require the students absence from school for more than a total of 36 hours per school year, and its organizers must inform the school of the students attendance record. The school shall not provide transportation to religious instruction. Approval is contingent upon the following provision: a. The appropriate form is completed describing the instruction and specifying the dates and hours. b. The absence is pre-approved by the Principal. c. At the completion of the instruction, the form is returned with the documentation that the instruction occurred as requested.
Post-Secondary Institution Visits/Job Interviews 1. All absences occasioned for post-secondary institution and job interview visits must have the prior signature of parent/guardian, guidance counselor, and/or Principal. Verification of visit/interview must be secured through a signature of a post-secondary institution official or a business representative.
Exceptions to Compulsory Attendance 1. Any child who has attained the age of 8 years prior to February 1 of any school year or has entered first grade at an earlier age and who has not yet attained the age of 17 years school be required to attend school regularly during the entire school year, except as amended by Section 1330 of the Pennsylvania School Code 2. The Board authorizes excused absences for the following reasons: a. Homebound Instruction: Students receiving homebound instruction are considered present. Homebound tutors may be provided for any student who shall be absent from school for an extended period of time, provided there is a written recommendation for such instruction, including a diagnosis and prognosis by the family physician. The prognosis shall state a specific diagnosis, shall not exceed 3 calendar months and be signed by the physician or psychiatrist. The notation of homebound instruction shall be placed in the students cumulative folder. b. Mental or physical disability c. In-home instruction approved by the Principal d. Approved educational trips
McKinley Charter School 2015-2016 School Calendar July 2015 Su M Tu W Th F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
August 2015 Su M Tu W Th F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
September 2015 Su M Tu W Th F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
October 2015 Su M Tu W Th F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
November 2015 Su M Tu W Th F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
December 2015 Su M Tu W Th F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
January 2016 Su M Tu W Th F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
February 2016 Su M Tu W Th F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28
March 2016 Su M Tu W Th F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 26 30 31
April 2016 Su M Tu W Th F S 1 2 3 4 5 3 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
June 2016 Su M Tu W Th F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
School Closed/ Holidays Teacher in-Service Day (no school for students) Half Day First and Last Day of School
Calendar items and Events July 4 Independence Day Holiday; Schools and Offices Closed August 5-9 New Teacher Training/Orientation August 12-20 Start of School In-Service for All Teachers August 19 First Day Back for 9 Month Support Staff August 20, 6:30p New Student Orientation August 21, 8a-Noon Return to School for 5-8 August 21 11:30 Return to School for High School September 2 Labor Day Holiday, School and Offices Closed September 17 Constitution Day Lessons and Activities Conducted September 23 Mid-Term Progress Reports Due October 11 In-Service Day; No School for Students October 14 Columbus Day Holiday; Schools and Offices Closed October 28 1st Day of New Marking Period November 7 12:30 Dismissal Parent Conferences 1-3:30; 5-8 (Moved from October 31) November 8 No School for Students; Parent Conferences (Moved from November 1) November 11 Veterans Day Holiday, School and Offices Closed November 28-29 Thanksgiving Holiday; Schools and Offices Closed December 3 Mid-Term Progress Reports Due December 20
12:30 Dismissal Staff Development December 23-24 Winter Holiday; Schools Closed December 25 Christmas Holiday, School and Offices Closed Offices Closed Constitution Day Mid-Term Reports Due 1st Day of New Marking Period New Teacher Program Keystone Exams
Administration Planning
December 26-31 Winter Holiday; Schools Closed January 1 New Year Holiday; Schools and Offices Closed January 15 1st Day of New Marking Period January 17 In-Service Day; No School for Students January 20 Martin Luther King Holiday; Schools and Offices Closed February 14 In-Service Day; No School for Students February 17 Presidents Day Holiday; School and Offices Closed February 20 Mid-Term Progress Reports Due March 14 12:30 Dismissal Staff Development March 17 Spring Holiday, Schools Closed March 18-28 Keystone Exams; Math and Reading March 26 1st Day of New Marking Period March 31 to April 4 Keystone Exams; Writing April 3 12:30 Dismissal Parent Conferences 1-3:30; 5-8 April 4 No School for Students; Parent Conferences April 17 Teacher in Service Day, No School for Students April 18 Good Friday Holiday; Schools and Offices Closed April 21 Spring Holiday, Schools Closed April 28 to May 2 Keystone Exams; Science May 1 Mid-Term Progress Report Due May 23 12:30 Dismissal Staff Development May 26 Memorial Day Holiday; School Closed June 3 Last Day of School for Students June 4 Teacher in Service Day, No School for Students June 5 Teacher in Service Day, No School for Students
BOARD OF TRUSTEES Section: Operations Title: Acceptable Use of Computer Networks and Internet Date Adopted: Revised: Section I. Purpose The Board supports use of the Internet and other computer networks in The Charter Schools instructional and operational programs in order to facilitate learning, teaching and daily operations through interpersonal communications and access to information, research and collaboration. For instructional purposes, the use of network facilities shall be consistent with the curriculum adopted by the school as well as the varied instructional needs, learning styles, abilities and developmental levels of students. Section II. Authority The electronic information available to students and staff does not imply endorsement by the school of the content, nor does the school guarantee the accuracy of information received. The school shall not be responsible for any information that may be lost, damaged or unavailable when using the network or for any information that is retrieved via the Internet. The school shall not be responsible for any unauthorized charges or fees resulting from access to the Internet. The school reserves the right to log network use and to monitor fileserver space utilization by school users while respecting the privacy rights of both the school users and outsider users. The Board establishes that network use is a privilege, not a right; inappropriate, unauthorized and illegal use will result in cancellation of those privileges and appropriate disciplinary action. The Board shall establish a list of materials, in addition to those stated in law, that are inappropriate for access by minors. P.L. 94-554, Sec. 107, 1711, 1721, 1732 20 U.S.C., Sec. 6777 PA Code Title 22, Sec. 403.1 Section III. Delegation of Responsibility The school shall make every effort to ensure that this resource is used responsibly by students and staff. Periodic reviews of this policy will be conducted by the Principal or designee. Administrators, teachers, parents and staff have a professional responsibility to work together to help students develop the intellectual skills necessary to discriminate among information sources, to identify information appropriate to their age and developmental levels, and to evaluate and use the information to meet their educational goals. Students and staff have the responsibility to respect and protect the rights of every other user in the school and on the Internet. The administration shall have the authority to determine activity that is inappropriate use of computer networks and the internet. The Principal or designee shall be responsible for implementing technology and procedures to determine whether the schools computers are being used for purposes prohibited by law and/or for accessing sexually explicit materials. The procedure shall include but not be limited to: 1. Utilizing a technology protection measure that blocks or filters Internet access for minors and adults to certain visual depictions that are obscene, child pornography, harmful to minors with respect to use by minors or determined inappropriate for use by minors by the Board. 2. Maintaining and securing a usage log. 3. Monitoring online activities of minors.
Section IV. Guidelines Network accounts shall be used only by the authorized owner of the account for its approved purpose. All communications and information accessible via the network should be assumed to be private property and shall not be disclosed. Network users shall respect the privacy of other users on the system. Owners of accounts shall be required to complete a Charter School Acceptable Use of Network/Internet Guidelines form on an annual basis. Prohibitions Students and staff are expected to act in a responsible, ethical and legal manner in accordance with school policy, accepted rules of network etiquette, and federal and state law. Specifically, the following uses are prohibited: 1. Illegal activity. 2. Commercial or for-profit purposes. 3. Non-work or non-school related work. 4. Product advertisement including the sale or advertisement of personal goods or property or political lobbying. 5. Hate mail, discriminatory remarks, and offensive or inflammatory communication. 6. Unauthorized or illegal installation, distribution, reproduction or use of copyrighted materials. 7. Access to obscene or pornographic material or child pornography. 8. Access by students and minors to material that is harmful to minors or is determined inappropriate for minors in accordance with Board policy. 9. Inappropriate language or profanity. 10. Transmission of material likely to be offensive or objectionable to recipients. 11. Intentional obtaining or modifying of files, passwords and data belonging to other users. 12. Impersonation of another user, anonymity and pseudonyms. 13. Fraudulent copying, communications or modification of materials in violation of copyright laws. 14. Loading or using of unauthorized games, programs, files or other electronic media. 15. Disruption of the work of other users. 16. Destruction, modification, abuse or unauthorized access to network hardware, software and files. 17. Quoting of personal communications in a public forum without the original authors prior consent. 18. Access of the Internet by students without a teacher being present. 19. Unauthorized electronic mail, chat rooms and other forms of electronic communication.
Security System security is the responsibility of all network users. System security is protected through the use of passwords. Failure to adequately protect or update passwords could result in unauthorized access to personal or school files. To protect the integrity of the system, the following guidelines shall be followed: 1. Employees and students shall not reveal their passwords to another individual. 2. Users are not to use a computer that has been logged in under another students or employees name. 3. Any user identified as a security risk or having a history of problems with other computer systems may be denied access to the network. 4. All users must follow school virus-protection procedures to prevent viruses from damaging school property and/or network files. 5. All users must obtain approval to download data or software from the Internet. Student must obtain approval from their teachers. 6. All users shall be responsible for making back-up copies of important data. 7. External storage devices may be used for school-related projects with teacher approval. All external storage devices must be scanned using the school virus-protection procedure.
Consequences for Inappropriate Use The network user shall be responsible for damages to the equipment, systems and software resulting from deliberate or willful acts.
Illegal use of the network, intentional deletion or damage to files of data belonging to others, copyright violations, and theft of services or violations of the laws governing telecommunications will be reported to the appropriate legal authorities for possible prosecution. General rules for behavior and communications apply when using the Internet, in addition to the stipulations of this policy. Loss of access and other disciplinary actions including possible prosecution may be the consequences for inappropriate use. Vandalism will result in cancellation of access privileges and disciplinary action. Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm or destroy data of another user, Internet or other networks; this includes but is not limited to uploading or creating computer viruses. Copyright The illegal use of copyrighted software by students and staff is prohibited. Any data uploaded to or downloaded from the network shall be subject to federal and state guidelines. Safety To the greatest extent possible, users of the network will be protected from harassment and unwanted or unsolicited communication. Any network user who receives threatening or unwelcome communications shall report such immediately to a teacher, or administrator. Network users shall not reveal personal information to other users on the network, including chat rooms, email, internet, etc. Measures have been taken to block inappropriate information using Internet filtering software. This software contains a block list that is updated frequently by the vendor and prohibits the use of inappropriate sites. The school may add custom entries to the block. It should be noted that the Internet is constantly changing and the block list blocks most but not all inappropriate sites. All internet activity is recorded in a log and reviewed by staff as policy violations are reported from the system or staff.