SCHOOL PROGRAM
There are six (6) major subjects:
Language Arts
Mathematics
World Language (elective)
Science
Social Studies
ReadingThere are eleven (7) minor areas:
Art
Computer Education
Industrial Technology
Health
Music
Instrumental Music
Physical Education
Major subjects will meet daily while minor subjects will meet for part of the year or three times per schedule, depending on the subject and the grade level.
The schedule appears complicated but is very simple. We have seven (7) periods each day, each full schedule has seven days. Subjects will meet at a different time rather than the same time each day.
There are four (4) reporting (REPORT CARDS) times during the school year--
November
January
April
June
In addition to the four report card times, a student may receive an EXCELLENCE REPORT for outstanding work at any time during the marking period. If the student is not producing in a subject as well as the teacher would like, that student may be issued an ACADEMIC WARNING.
Both REPORT CARDS and DEFICIENCY REPORTS should be taken home, signed by a parent/guardian and returned the following school day to the teacher who issued it.
HIGH HONORS: Grade point average between 90 and 100 with no grade below 80.
HONORS: Grade point average between 85 and 90 with no grade below 80.
MERIT: Grade point average between 80 and 85 with no grade below 80.
RESPONSIBILITIES OF NESSACUS STUDENTS
1. To participate in and contribute to class work.
2. To treat teachers, adults, and fellow students with respect.
3. To refrain from depriving the teacher of the right to teach or the student of the right to learn.
4. To respect all private property and personal possessions.
5. To refrain from any act endangering anyone or impairing the conditions of the buildings or grounds.
6. To be acquainted with and observe regulations with respect to attendance, tardiness, dismissal and corridor passing.
7. To be acquainted with and observe regulations on smoking, alcohol and other controlled substances.
8. To recognize the authority of the adult anywhere in the school or on the grounds.
9. To refrain from rude language or conduct.
10. To conduct oneself in a manner to improve the quality of the school and the classroom.
11. To use common sense in any situation in which one may find himself.
If the student is vigorous in meeting the responsibilities of the above responsibilities, "DISCIPLINE" will spell "SUCCESS." However, for some, an understanding of discipline requires an understanding of which behaviors are prohibited and constitute OFFENSES. The following is offered as a partial list, but a list which should provide a clear understanding of the school's expectations. A student should NOT:
1) Fail to participate in and contribute to class work. Examples:
a) Lack of homework b) Refusal to participate in class
2) Show disrespect to any teacher, adult or fellow student: Examples:
a) Stealing c) Intimidation or hazing b) Verbal or physical abuse d) Sexual harassment
3) Deprive any teacher of the right to teach or any other student of the right to learn. Examples:
a) Disrupting a class by talking, clowning, b) Failure to come to class prepared or any other form of fooling around to work
4) Damage or misuse any property--public or private. Examples:
a) Vandalism b) Gum and litter c) Graffiti
5) Endanger anyone or impair the conditions of the buildings or grounds. Examples:
a) Bringing unsafe items to school b) Fighting or encouraging fighting c) Rough horseplay, snowballs or unsafe play
6) Fail to be acquainted with and observe regulations on attendance, tardiness, dismissal, and corridor passing. Examples:
a) Running in the halls b) Leaving school without permission
7) Violate regulations on smoking, alcohol or any other controlled substance. Examples:
a) Possession b) Distribution c) Smoking
8) Fail to recognize the authority of the adult anywhere in the school or on the grounds. Examples:
a) No show for detention b) No show for after school extra help
9) Engage in rude language or conduct. Examples:
a) Classroom outbursts c) Graffiti b) Inappropriate gestures d) Vulgar messages on clothing
10) Behave in any way to detract from the quality of the school and the classroom. Examples:
a) Fighting b) Inappropriate behavior while on a field trip c) Gang formation and gang- related activities
11) Fail to abide by the reasonable rules of conduct. Examples:
a) Bringing inappropriate items to school such as water pistols, fireworks, skateboards, beepers, phones, video games, walkman
b) Being in an inappropriate place in the school or on the grounds c) Forging parent's signature on referrals, deficiency reports, etc.
Violations of the second meaning of discipline shall be handled as follows:
a) minor and infrequent offenses will be handled by the individual classroom teacher and/or instructional team and will not usually involve a written DISCIPLINE REFERRAL.
b)more frequent and/or more serious offenses will result in a formal DISCIPLINE REFERRAL, which will result in one of a series of progressive penalties as presented below.
c) special needs students are expected to adhere to the code of conduct and the rules and regulations for student conduct in the student handbook including all disciplinary measures. Any exceptions to regular school discipline will be spelled out in the student’s Individual Educational Plan (IEP).
RULES AND PROCEDURES
Agenda Planners have been provided as a help to the student. They include the student handbook, spaces to write in all assignments, sections for progress reports and a wide variety of useful reference information. It is the student's responsibility to maintain his/her planner for the entire year. If lost or damaged, the student will be required to purchase a replacement.
Before the school doors open at 7:58 A.M., students will be directed to the Cafeteria or to the basketball/tennis courts. They may not leave the school grounds. Walking students are encouraged to arrive at school around 7:55 A.M. Walking students may not be allowed in the cafeteria before the start of school.
Students may report to the library for quiet study. Students in this study are to work quietly and remain seated until the teacher on duty dismisses them. Students who disrupt this study will be sent out.
Students will enter the building as follows:
Grade 6-courtyard entrance
Grade 7-south west cafeteria door
Grade 8-northwest cafeteria door
ABSENCE--NOTIFYING THE SCHOOL
Parents or guardians must call Nessacus between 8:00 and 9:00 A.M. (684-0780) to inform the school of the absence of their pupil and the reason thereof. Current law requires parents or guardians to furnish the school with a home, work or other emergency telephone where they can be contacted during the school day. If a pupil is absent and the school has not been notified by the designated time, the school will call the telephone number or numbers furnished to inquire about the absence.
1. If the door is open, enter. If the assistant Principal is busy with another student, go to the waiting area.
2. If the door is closed, knock. If there is no answer, report to guidance.
3. There is to be no student in the office when he is not there.
ATTENDANCE--EXCUSED AND UNEXCUSED ABSENCES
Attendance at school is required by State Law. A student must be in attendance unless he or she has an excused absence. Reasons acceptable to the Central Berkshire Regional School District are: illness, religious observance, quarantine, death in the family, impassable roads, hazardous weather, health treatment, attendance at a clinic, and legal business. However, reasons other than illness or emergency require prior permission from the school administration.
The attendance regulations listed below emphasize the importance of attendance and punctuality relative to acceptance into employment, college, and the Armed Services.
1. School attendance is the responsibility of parents and pupils.
2. Students not attending school because of illness before ll:30 A.M. or dismissed because of illness are ineligible for participation in school activities for the remainder of the day.
3. Students suspended from school are ineligible for participation in school activities during the period of suspension. School activities shall be defined as those activities under the direction and supervision of school personnel.
4. If the number of absences, dismissals, and tardiness total l8 during an academic year (9 days per semester), the possibility for obtaining credit might be questioned. This number represents 10% of the recommended minimum school year.
5. Truancy - Whenever students skip school individually or as a group, re-admission to class will not be allowed until the parents or guardian have arranged a conference with school officials. Internal suspension and/or detention may be assigned for the first offense. Second offense and/or subsequent offenses may result in a suspension.
6. Unexcused absence - Although every absence that is acknowledged by a student's parent or guardian removes the stigma of truancy, absences or dismissals which are allowed for social purposes may readily be judged by the administration as unexcused. Absences taken for vacations during the school year are unexcused. An unexcused absence will require the student to see the teachers at the close of school on the first day of his/her return to get all missed work. The student will have five school days to make up all work. It may also be noted that teachers will not give out work in advance of any vacations or unexcused absences.
7. Parents are to notify the school by telephone each time their son/daughter is absent from school. In lieu of a telephone call from a parent, the administration will require a verified, acceptable excuse obtained by telephoning the parent, or receiving a signed note from a parent or receiving some other confirmation to validate the excuse.
8. Parents are expected to make every effort to comply with the law and work cooperatively with the administration to make attendance at school their child's first priority.
Prior to the beginning of each school year, each school committee shall schedule a minimum of 180 school days for the year for all public schools under its supervision and control. As a matter of policy, the Board of Education recommends that each school committee schedule a 185 day school year to provide for contingency of snow days and other schedule disruptions. In all cases, school committees are encouraged to exceed the minimum where possible for the purpose of extension of student learning time.
Definition of a School Year: under Education Reform, the law describes the school year as being 900 hours of supervised instructional time. In order to accumulate 900 hours, a student must be in class for five hours per day for 180 days. The Nessacus schedule will make it easy for a student to accomplish this easily.
Definition of School Day: A school day for an elementary grade shall consist of a minimum of 5 instructional hours. A school day for secondary grade shall consist of a minimum of 5 ½ instruction hours. A school committee may schedule a school day or school days of less than 5 or 5 ½ hours of instructional time with early release of pupils on the day before Thanksgiving, and to permit in-service education, parent conferences, and other professional activities provided that the average annual length of the school day is 5 instructional hours for elementary or 5 ½ instructional hours for secondary grades. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, recognizing the rights of all individuals for a proper education has compulsory school attendance laws in effect (Chapter 76, Section 2 of the State Education Law):
"Every person in control of a child..shall cause him to attend school as therein required, and if he fails to do so for seven day sessions or fourteen half-day sessions within any period of six months, he shall on complaint by a supervisor of attendance, be punished by a fine..no physical or mental condition capable of correction, or rendering the child fit subject for special instruction shall avail as a defense unless it appears that the defendant has employed all reasonable measures for the correction of the condition and the suitable instruction of the child."
Pupils transported in a school bus shall be under the authority of the School District and under control of the bus driver, a legal representative of the School. The safety of pupils riding school buses cannot be left to chance, and it is imperative that good order and discipline be maintained on each bus. Continued disorderly conduct or persistent refusal to submit to the authority of the driver shall be sufficient reason for a pupil to be denied the privilege of transportation in accordance with the general rules and regulations of the School Committee. The rules and regulations adopted by the School Committee are as follows:
Students who display any of the following types of behavior patterns may, at the discretion of the Administration, have their bus riding privileges suspended and /or be suspended from school.
l. Damaging the bus 8. Violation of safety procedures
2. Damaging other student's property 9. Excessive mischief
3. Fighting 10. Littering the bus
4. Rude/discourteous/annoying behavior to 11. Possession, consumption or sale driver or other students of drugs or alcohol
5. Abusive language to driver or other students 12. Distracting the driver by any means
6. Smoking 13. Misbehavior at the bus stop
7. Throwing of any article either in the bus, at the bus or from the bus
The policies contained within this handbook are subject to revision at any time. A copy of any revision will be distributed to students and made available to anyone upon request at the principal’s office.
Central Berkshire Regional School District Policy #6860.11
Students are encouraged to use the same bus stop for both AM and PM stops. If, because of day care requirements, a different PM stop or different PM route is needed, said service may be provided both on a space available and a regular basis only. A student needing a different PM stop or different PM route for one day may be provided with said service in the event of a legitimate family emergency. A student attending the Regional High School, for purposes of providing day care or for transportation to a site of employment, may ride any bus that provides that service. This right will be restricted to the availability of space on the requested route. The transportation provider for the District will have the exclusive right of determining available space.
BUS MISCONDUCT-- PROGRESSIVE PENALTIES
Suspension of bus riding privileges does not relieve the responsibility of the student to attend school. It is the responsibility of the parent to arrange transportation for their child to and from school during periods of suspension from bus riding privileges.
FIRST OFFENSE - may result in a warning which will be sent via certified letter to parents. If, however, the first offense is serious enough, it may result in suspension of bus privileges, as deemed necessary by the Administrator in charge. This suspension will normally be for three days. However, based on the Administrator's judgment of the severity of the offense, this suspension may be for up to ten (10) days.
SECOND OFFENSE - may result in suspension of bus privileges as deemed necessary by the Administrator in charge. This suspension will normally be for seven (7) days. However, based on the Administrator's judgment of the severity of the offense, this suspension may be for up to ten (10) days.
THIRD AND SUBSEQUENT OFFENSES - may result in suspension of bus privileges as deemed necessary by the Administrator in charge. This suspension may not exceed ten (10) days. However, based on the Administrator's judgment of the severity of the offense, the Administration may bring a student's name to the School Committee for long term suspension on any given offense.
FOURTH AND SUBSEQUENT OFFENSES - may result in student's name being submitted to the School Committee for the purpose of seeking long-term or permanent suspension of bus riding privileges.
Parents are responsible for restitution, as defined by statute, for damages to the school bus, or other properties as a result of their children's actions.
Lunch will be available for a nominal fee or a bag lunch may be brought. If ordering a school lunch, you MUST order it during the homeroom period in the A.M.
l. Students will enter the cafeteria in a safe, orderly, manner. Running or pushing will not be tolerated.
2. Students will be quiet and orderly while waiting in line for milk or hot lunch.
3. Students will be courteous and respectful to all cafeteria workers, to each other, and to all adults who may be in the cafeteria.
4. Students will talk quietly while seated at lunch tables.
5. Students will completely clean their table and area around their table before leaving the cafeteria. When the area is cleaned, the student should raise his/her hand and wait for dismissal by the adult in charge.
6. Shouting in the cafeteria will not be tolerated.
7. Throwing any object in the cafeteria may result in suspension from school.
8. With the exception of rule #7, anyone who breaks any of the above rules may be given detention.
9. Students are not to intimidate other students for money.
Students are expected to act in the proper manner in the cafeteria. Line cutting is not permissible and common sense manners while eating are mandatory. Those students who cannot follow the rules may be denied the privilege of using the cafeteria. They will be asked to bring a bag lunch and not be permitted to eat with the other students.
A student in this school should remember that the school is for the student but does not belong to him. It does not belong to the administration or the teachers, it belongs to the parents and taxpayers of the district. However, we expect each student to care for the school building and the school property as if it were their own. Books and lockers will be supplied to the students. The student must remember that these belong to the school and we are only lending them to you. It is the student's responsibility to return these items at the end of the school year or whenever they are due to be returned.
Our school is a place where students live, work, and grow together. Nothing is more important for students and families than a safe, orderly and supportive environment. In order to maintain such an environment, students are required to treat one another in a respectful, civil manner. Students are expected to respect the spirit, differences, and feelings of schoolmates and to refrain from the use of insults and name-calling. Further, disorderly conduct or violence with an expressed racial, religious, ethnic or sexual basis will not be tolerated. Students must not do "injury" to the spirit of others or to the spirit of the school community by the use of racial, ethnic or other derogatory slurs, threats, or harassment.
Students who believe their civil rights have been violated in any of these ways, either by students or staff, should report their concerns to the principal who will investigate the concern. If it is determined that civil rights have been violated, disciplinary action will occur.
We at Nessacus strongly urge students to become involved and to participate in leadership activities (Student Council, SHARP, Class Officers, etc.) as well as various noontime clubs. However, students will automatically lose the privilege of membership in these clubs or activities if: (1) there are any failing grades on a report card or (2) the student receives a disciplinary referral which results in suspension.
Students who are members of clubs and organizations, i.e. Student Council, must also stay out of discipline problems. The administration and the adult in charge of the club or organization may remove members for academic or disciplinary reasons.
DANCES AND OTHER SCHOOL SPONSORED ACTIVITIES
Students are expected to be on their best behavior at all school sponsored activities. When attending a dance, the following rules are in effect:
l. You are not to loiter outside the building at any time.
2. Once arriving at the dance, you MUST stay inside. Once you leave, you are not permitted back in the building.
3. "Making Out" is not part of a dance. You will be asked to leave if you persist in this activity.
4. Drugs or alcohol are NOT permitted. Those caught with either will be suspended from school in accordance with District policies #6370 and #6630.
5. Prior approval must be made for students who do not attend Nessacus to attend.
6. Students who are suspended or absent on the day of a dance or school activity will not be allowed to participate in that dance or school activity.
School detention may be assigned as a disciplinary consequence. The rules for detention are as follows:
1. Any student who is assigned detention is expected to report on time.
2. Students must bring work and be prepared to work for the entire period.
3. Failure to report to detention will result in two additional nights detention.
4. If a student accumulates five (5) nights detention the following will occur:
First Time - The student will be placed on internal suspension and the detentions will be deleted.
Second Time - The student will be placed on internal suspension and all detentions will be served.
Third and Subsequent Times - The student will be placed on external suspension and all detentions will be served.
5. Students will be dismissed from detention by the adult in charge. If a student cannot stay for detention, he/she is to report to the detention teacher before leaving school to state the reason. The student must bring in an excuse note from a parent or guardian the next morning. In the event that detention is canceled, it will be announced on either the AM or PM announcements.
Saturday Detention can be assigned for truancy, excessive tardiness, and chronic discipline problems.
Every school in the Central Berkshire Regional School District has a program to familiarize students with its behavioral guidelines. Nessacus Middle School does this by means of student handbooks as well as large and small group orientation sessions.
The word "discipline" has a double meaning when used in the schools. The first is a condition of order, and the second is simply a system of punishments for inappropriate behavior. The Central Berkshire School District staff would prefer the first meaning. It is our intent to maintain order and establish a learning atmosphere where a student may feel secure and is able to exercise the right to learn.
Since no one can anticipate every possible kind of misconduct, the administration retains the right to publish and maintain additional rules during the year and to discipline students for any conduct that is obviously inappropriate.
The second meaning, "consequence", is the form of discipline used when students violate the rights of others or cannot follow the rules of the school. In keeping with the first meaning of discipline, the following are the most important responsibilities of students:
No person shall be excluded or discriminated against in admission to a public school of any town, or in obtaining the advantages, privileges, and courses of study of such public school on account of race, color, sex, religion, national origin or sexual orientation.
Students have the right to determine dress and grooming as they see fit, as long as their appearance conforms with community norms of decency and does not substantially and directly endanger physical health or safety, damage property, or seriously and immediately disrupt activities. Students are not allowed to wear clothing displaying obscene pictures or profane slogans, or having statements which "advertise" illicit drug ("drug" here includes alcohol and tobacco) use in any way. Students have the responsibility to maintain personal dress and grooming while in school in accordance with these limitations.
Possession and/or distribution of controlled substances (drugs) carries with it heavy penalties. See the section on District Policy #6730 and 6630. At Nessacus, possession and/or distribution of "look-alike" substances may bring about the same penalties.
Eating and drinking (other than at the school's water fountains) in the halls and classrooms is not permitted at any time unless prior arrangements have been made with the nurse or the administration.
The elevator will be used only for authorized students. Unless authorized, DO NOT TOUCH. If you think that you have a medical condition that justifies using the elevator, bring your request to the Health Center first for approval.
During the school year we will hold several fire drills. Each room in the building has its own instructions. Familiarize yourself with the procedures to be used in each classroom that you use.
At times it becomes necessary to close school on a regularly scheduled school day. If this occurs before the start of the school day, all area radio stations will carry the message. Please do not call teachers or administrators--their only way of knowing is listening to the same radio messages.
In accordance with the Education Reform Act of 1993, any student found in possession of a dangerous weapon or a controlled substance or who assaults a school staff person will be subject to expulsion. This includes threatening with a look-alike weapon or possession of look-alike controlled substances.
Short term suspension of a student from school may be invoked by the Principal or the Assistant Principal for a period of up to (not including) ten (10) days. Due process for short term suspension includes a hearing before suspension, in which the student facing the short term suspension is given oral or written charges against him/her, an explanation of the basis for the accusation, and an opportunity to present his/her version of the facts. If suspension is invoked by the administration after such hearing the parent or legal guardian will be notified when possible. Parents/Guardians are expected to meet with the administration prior to the student’s return to school.
Upon return from an external suspension it is the student's responsibility to see each teacher for work missed and make arrangements for the make up. Failure to do so or to complete the work within the specified time, as set forth by the teacher, will result in zeros for the work.
At Nessacus, we do not expect students to fail any course--major or minor. Students who fail to do passing work may have their schedules adjusted to increase supervised work time in their area(s) of difficulty. This may include assigned after school extra help.
We, at Nessacus, feel that a field trip of any sort is a privilege that must be earned. With this in mind, the following guideline will be in effect: Starting four schedules or 28 school days before the scheduled field trip, a student may lose his/her right to go on that trip if he/she receives any of the following:
1 Suspension of any type
4 Detentions
2 Teacher
recommendations
FIGHTING / ASSAULTIVE BEHAVIOR
The most basic principle shared by all at Nessacus Middle School centers around academic excellence. In keeping with this principle, certain behavioral problems must be dealt with swiftly and severely. Fighting and other forms of assaultive behavior are two of those areas: they have no place in an educational institution and can not and will not be tolerated here at Nessacus (See policy on Jurisdiction of the School).
Fighting is very dangerous and may cause permanent injuries. We, at Nessacus, must do everything we can to provide an educational atmosphere as well as a safe setting for the student. With this in mind, the following guideline will be adhered to:
If any student is involved in assaultive behavior or a fight and will not stop when instructed to by an adult, or if that student is willfully causing harm (slapping, punching, pinching, kicking, biting, scratching, pulling hair, etc.) to another student, the student will be suspended (usually externally) for a period of time to be determined by the administration and in accordance with the progressive penalties policy of the school. It may also be noted that the guideline concerning those that watch or encourage a fight may be just as guilty as those who actually participate and may receive a punishment up to and equal to those in a fight. The student's responsibility in any situation in which he or she thinks that a fight or any other form of assaultive behavior might occur is to get to the nearest adult as quickly as possible and report the problem.
Gum chewing is not allowed at any time. This includes before and after school, lunch and recess.
Homework is an essential part of the learning process. It is the student's responsibility to do all of the assigned work given each day. The must be prepared for each day's classes. This includes not only tests and quizzes, but being prepared to actively participate in all discussions. Homework is a part of your mark!
This year, we will continue our system of "Homework Buddies." The duties of a homework buddy are:
1. To provide the student with a copy of all homework assignments when that student is absent.
2. To bring home books and materials needed to keep up.
3. To deliver any special instructions from the teacher.
4. To turn in completed assignments for the student who is not in school.
The homework buddy should be (a) someone trustworthy and reliable to get things from your locker, (b) someone in either the student's homeroom, section or most classes, and (c) someone who lives near the student or wouldn't mind getting the homework to his/her house or phoning. If, for some reason, the student cannot find a homework buddy, the Guidance Counselor will help to make an appropriate plan. In case of an absence, the parent/guardian should call the school (684-6156) to make arrangements.
During inclement weather, recess will be held in the gym. Students are to report to the gym and sit in the bleachers. Students are to remain in the bleachers until the teacher on duty dismisses them. Dismissal will be done by rows and students are expected to wait until their row is called. They will walk and remain in line.
A student placed on internal suspension will report to the internal suspension room with all books and working materials. The student will be expected to do all work assigned. Failure to do so may result in external suspension.
At no time during the school day may any student leave school grounds without special permission from the Principal or Assistant Principal. Bus students are to come on and remain on school property as soon as their bus arrives in the morning. They are not to leave school at the end of the day and return for a bus nor are they to walk to Wahconah to catch the bus.
The library is mainly for the student's use. Certain books may be loaned to students but must be returned no later than the date stamped on them. Remember--these books are only loaned to you. They must be returned and they must be returned in the condition they were in when you borrowed them. There are also reference materials which must remain in the library. The library will be opened from 8:25 until 3:00. During the day, students must have their planners signed to use the library.
Each student will be issued a locker. Students are to use only the lockers they have been issued. Lockers should be kept neat at all times. If for some reason, your locker becomes damaged, you are to report it to your homeroom teacher as soon as possible.
Lockers do belong to the school and may be examined at any time by the administration of this school. Students do not have the right to use lockers for storage of any illegal or improper items.
The lockers at Nessacus come equipped with a combination lock to protect the contents of the locker.
If a student needs to go to other than an assigned location during the school day, the student must have their planner signed by the adult in charge. A signed planner is needed to access the following places:
1.) Library/Media Center 2.) Office 3.) Guidance 4.) Health Office 5.) Teacher 6.) Restroom
All other needs must be taken care of before school, between periods or after school.
Recess is a privilege given to students to relax from the classroom and to socialize with their friends. In order to make recess a safer environment, the following guidelines will be applied:
1. No roughhouse play will be allowed.
2. Students are to stay on the basketball/tennis court area.
3. If a student feels that there is a problem, he/she should report this to the adult on duty.
Anyone not following the rules at recess will immediately be sent to noon detention and may lose the recess privilege for a period of time to be determined by the administration.
The Student Council operates a small school store that can be found near the entrance to the gymnasium. School supplies such as pens, pencils, erasers, book covers, assignment books, etc. may be purchased at the store.
The store is open before school in the morning until homeroom time and at noon.
SMOKING OR POSSESSION OF TOBACCO OR HARMFUL DRUGS
Smoking or the possession of tobacco is prohibited in the Middle School. Any adult may confiscate any tobacco found on a student or found in his or her locker.
Harmful drugs being taken or in possession of a student is also prohibited in the Middle School. This is a much more serious offense than tobacco and may result in more than school matters. Alcohol or the possession of alcohol is prohibited by law.
Possession or use of alcohol or drugs will result in suspension as specified in school district policies #6630 and 6730.
Sexual Harassment is a form of sex discrimination. Under Massachusetts law on fair educational practices (Chapter 151C of the Massachusetts General Laws), the term "sexual harassment" is defined as follows:
Any sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when: (1) submission to or rejection of such advances, requests of conduct is made explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of the provision of benefit, privileges, or placement services or as a basis for the evaluation of academic achievement; or (2) such advances, requests or conduct have the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s education by creating an intimidating, hostile, humiliating or sexually offensive educational environment.
Sexual harassment of any type will not be tolerated at Nessacus. A student, through gesture, verbalization, written note or action, may be subject to disciplinary action which may include external suspension and/or court action.
Students should use proper channels of communication in the school. If there is a suggestion to be made, it should be made where it will do the most good. Usually the first step is through your student council representative. Matters of a more serious nature should be discussed either with your homeroom teacher, guidance counselor, the Assistant Principal or the building Principal.
Students are expected to do a full period's work during a study hall. If the student has nothing to do, the teacher in charge will assign work. If a student has a problem with work in a study hall, they are encouraged to ask the teacher in charge for help.
A student should be on time not only to school but to each class during the school day. If for any reason the student is late for school, the parent or guardian should send a note with the student stating the reason for the tardiness.
Students who are tardy to school should report to the Attendance Office. If there is no excuse for the tardiness the student will be assigned to detention. Tardiness to class will not be tolerated. Students are given ample time between periods to reach their next destination. A student who is late to class will report to that class and not to the office for a late pass.
The office telephones are business telephones and are to be used by the students only in emergency situations and only with permission from the office. A pay phone is available for the students and is located near the main entrance. The pay phone may be used only with permission during the school day.
Textbooks will be furnished by the school to all students. Once the student has been furnished with a textbook that book becomes his/her responsibility. The student should make sure that all books are properly labeled.
Students must remember that the school has only loaned you these books and that they must be returned at the end of the school year. Lost or damaged books must be paid for by the student. A replacement price list is as follows:
6th Grade Replacement Price
7th Grade Replacement Price
Spelling $ 9.93 French $15.00
Language Arts 15.75 French Workbook 4.70
Math 28.98 Spanish 12.00
Science 15.15 Spelling 9.93
Soc. Studies 32.34 Language Arts 10.00
Reading 13.98 Math 29.97
Reading Workbook 5.70 Science 16.50
Science Workbook 4.00
Social Studies 38.45
Health 12.00
8th Grade
Lang. Arts $30.00
Spelling 7.98
Math 29.97
Math Workbook 5.25
Science 21.90
Social Studies 38.45
French 15.00
Spanish 12.00
Health 11.50
Loving Well 18.95
Those not listed above will be the school's replacement cost. Damaged books may be charged a portion of the replacement cost determined by the administration. Most books lost by students are misplaced somewhere in the building. If the student will take time to think, then the book will usually be found.
Procedure for finding lost books:
1. Try to remember when you last had the book.
2. Book may be in the classroom of the next period /subject.
3. Look in special areas, i.e., shop, music, art, etc.
4. Check lost and found in the school store.
5. Put some effort into keeping your books.
6. Look at home.
The school system will furnish bus transportation to all students that require transportation. Students are responsible to act as guests on the bus. We do not have to provide transportation to any student who cannot behave on a bus. A student may be suspended from riding the school buses for a period of time. It then becomes the responsibility of the parents to see that the student gets to and from the school. No student will be allowed to go home other than by their usual method of transportation unless they have written parental permission.
Nessacus is a very crowded school and we discourage students from bringing in friends for the day. Parents, however, are encouraged to visit. All visitors, including volunteers, are required to sign in and out and show identification at the Main Office.
Students who walk to school are encouraged to leave home at a time so that they will arrive when the school doors open. Walking students are asked to use the public sidewalks and not to use shortcuts through anyone's property.
During the winter months when many sidewalks are snowed in, walking students are asked to walk on the left side of the road facing traffic and to walk in a single line.
Weapons and "look alike" weapons are not permitted at Nessacus at any time. The term "weapon" includes knives of any size and guns; it may include any item, which in the opinion of the administration, may be used to harm----for example, a rubber band and a paper clip may be a weapon (see section heading under EXCLUSION)
PROGRESSIVE PENALTIES
These progressive penalties are intended to provide a more detailed description of how the School Committee's policies on discipline will be implemented at Nessacus. These following policies are printed elsewhere in this handbook.
6500-Regulations for Conduct of Students
6510-Jurisdiction of the School
6630-Suspension and Exclusion
6770-Vandalism
In determining any penalty, at least two considerations other than the progressive system may have a bearing on the outcome. First, if an offense is serious enough, for example a very violent or disruptive act, the recommendation would not be treated as just another first or second offense but would very likely go to one of the final penalties. Second, in the course of due process, sometimes facts are learned which may have a bearing on the outcome. Students may have the option of working with the Assistant Principal to reduce the future levels at which they are placed on the progressive penalty system. This will be done through a student discipline contract. However, in general, the progressive penalties will go as follows:
First Offense -- may result in 1 to 3 days detention. Notice will be sent home with the student on a DISCIPLINARY REFERRAL form. If, however, the offense is serious enough, it may result in more detention or suspension as deemed necessary by the Administrator. It is the responsibility of the parent to review the incident with the student, correct the behavior, sign and return the form to the Assistant Principal's office.
Second Offense -- may result in 3 to 5 days detention. If the offense is deemed serious enough, additional detention or suspension may be assigned by the Administrator. As always, the DISCIPLINARY REFERRAL form must be signed and returned.
Third Offense -- may result in 1 day of internal suspension. Two additional things will happen at this level: (1) the student will be referred to Guidance or the School Adjustment Counselor for regular follow up and (2) the parent will be called in for a conference with the Assistant Principal and at least one teacher from the student's academic team. If the offense is deemed serious enough, additional suspension (internal or external) may by assigned by the Administrator. The DISCIPLINARY REFERRAL must be signed and returned.
Fourth Offense -- may result in 1 to 3 days internal suspension. If the offense is deemed serious enough, external suspension may be assigned by the Administrator. The referral must be signed and returned.
All missed work must be made up satisfactorily and all owed detentions will be served.
Fifth Offense -- may result in 3 to 5 days internal suspension. The parent will be notified by phone, if possible, and by letter. During this internal suspension period, the student will receive counseling and participate in a program designed to correct his/her behavior. Failure to cooperate in this process may result in the student's receiving external suspension rather than internal suspension. All missed work must be made up satisfactorily and all owed detentions will be served. Parents/ guardians are expected to meet with administration prior to the student’s return to school.
Sixth Offense -- will normally result in 1 to 3 days external suspension. From this point on, each offense carries with it the weight of being a chronic offender.
The parent will be notified by letter. Parents/ guardians are expected to meet with administration prior to the student’s return to school. Upon return to school, the student will meet with the Building-Based Support Team for suggestions as to how to improve his/her behavior and avoid future referrals.
Seventh Offense -- will normally result in 3 to 5 days external suspension. The parent will be notified by a letter.
Parents/ guardians are expected to meet with administration prior to the student’s return to school.
Upon return to school, all missed work has to be made up satisfactorily and all owed detentions have to be served.
At the seventh offense, the student may be referred under Chapter 766. If the student is already on an educational plan, the school may request a team review. A C.H.I.N.S. or care and protection order may also be sought. Whether or not the same is sought will be determined by (1) the degree of cooperation exhibited by the parent and the student and (2) the recommendation(s) after communication among the counselor, the school principal and a teacher from the student's team or (3) the recommendation of the Building-based Support Team.
Eighth Offense -- will normally result in 5 to 7 days external suspension. The parent will be notified by letter. Upon return to school, all missed work has to be made up satisfactorily and all owed detentions have to be served. Parents/ guardians are expected to meet with administration prior to the student’s return to school.
Ninth Offense -- will normally result in 7 to 9 days external suspension. The parent will be notified by letter. Upon return to school, all missed work has to be made up satisfactorily and all owed detentions have to be served. Parents/ guardians are expected to meet with administration prior to the student’s return to school.
Tenth Offense (and subsequent offenses) -- will result in nine (9) days external suspension and could result in a hearing to determine if there is cause for a long term suspension or exclusion. The hearing will be scheduled as quickly as possible, usually within two (2) school days.
SCHOOL SERVICES
The Nessacus Chapter I Program offers help in reading, mathematics and study skills. If you or your parents feel that you would like this service, please contact Mr. Thomas Potter, Chapter 1 Director, (684-0320) to discuss eligibility requirements.
In accordance with the Massachusetts Law any student found to have needs which are not being adequately met by the regular school program, should be referred for an evaluation by 766 staff members to determine how best to meet the student's individual needs. Any parent, faculty member, or administrator can request that a student be evaluated. If a parent has reason to believe a student has special needs, please contact the student's Guidance Counselor and the necessary procedures will be implemented.
In the Guidance Center we try to make life a little more pleasant for everyone. If you are unhappy, you can't do your best. If things are going wrong for you, stop in to tell us about it. It can be a small problem like a question about your schedule--or something quite serious, but often it helps to talk with someone who may be able to help you.
There will be small groups of students meeting during the year to discuss student interests and concerns. These groups are voluntary and meet during Study Halls for about 6 weeks. Other groups will meet to find ways to improve study skills.
When you or your parents have questions about how well you are doing in school, your guidance counselor can get Progress Reports from your teachers. If your parents wish to meet with one or more of your teachers, they should contact the Guidance Counselor to set up an appointment. The Guidance telephone number is 684-6156. If you, your parents and the Guidance Counselor work together your years at Nessacus Middle School should be happy ones.
A full-time nurse is assigned to the Nessacus Middle School. If you do not feel well, you must have your planner signed to go to the Health Center. If you are injured in the school, either get to the Health Center or have someone go to the nurse's office for you. If you are injured at home, you are not to expect free medical attention at school.
If the nurse is not available at the time she is needed, report to the Main Office.
Medication cannot be given to students unless medicines are sent from home with a note of explanation. The student is not to keep the medication but must have it kept in the Health Center.
Nessacus Middle School has a full-time School Adjustment Counselor. If a parent feels a School Adjustment Counselor may be helpful in dealing with a specific problem, please contact the Guidance Center (684-6156).
Nessacus students participate in a number of testing programs to guide curriculum and instruction and assess individual progress. Some of the programs are: Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (Grade 8); Differential Aptitude Tests (Grade 8)
CENTRAL BERKSHIRE REGIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT POLICIES AND LAWS
OF THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS
The policies contained within this handbook are subject to revision at any time. A copy of any revision will be distributed to students and made available to anyone upon request at the principal’s office.
SCHOOL COMMITTEE POLICIES RELATIVE TO DISCIPLINE
1.Students must treat teachers and students with respect, regardless of sex, race, color, creed, ethnic background, socio-economic status, or minority group membership.
2. Students must refrain from impairing the educational process or depriving students or teachers of their right.
3. Students must respect the personal property of other students and teachers.
4. Students must refrain from acts endangering students or teachers, or impairing the condition or maintenance of school buildings or grounds.
5. Students must recognize the authority of the teacher and of duly commissioned non-teaching personnel anywhere in the school buildings or grounds.
6. Students must refrain from rude language or conduct.
7. Students must adhere to school rules and attempt to institute change through legally acceptable channels.
8. Students must apply their best efforts in studying and learning in each subject and class.
9. Students must keep their parents and or/guardians informed of all important school matters and events.
10. Students must respect the rights of all other students, teachers, administrators, counselors, nurses, paraprofessionals, custodians, secretaries, cafeteria employees, bus drivers, and guests.
11. Students must respect the individual right of each human being to differ and be different from themselves.
REGULATIONS FOR THE CONDUCT OF STUDENTS (As required by General Laws, Chapter 71, Section 37H)
1. The school committee employs a superintendent to have "the care and supervision of the public schools". The superintendent, in the day to day operation of the school, delegates "the care and supervision" of the schools to the principals, teachers, and other staff. It is the responsibility of the principals, teachers, and other staff to publicize and enforce these regulations as well as to take the appropriate steps to formulate more detailed rules as necessary to support these regulations.
2. School committee regulations (and supporting rules) for the conduct of students are applicable when the students are under the jurisdiction of the school as defined in Policy 6510.
3. The following specific regulations are established by the school committee with reference to student conduct. Each student shall. . . . .
3.01 attend school regularly in accordance with guidelines set out by the Massachusetts Board of Education and the school committee.
3.02 account for absence (and tardiness) in the manner prescribed by each school.
3.03 behave in a non-disruptive manner with due regard to the rights and privileges of others.
3.04 be subject to applicable provisions of state law and local ordinances.
3.05 know and follow the specific safety rules and procedures of the school.
3.06 know and follow the specific rules and procedures related to fire and other emergency drills.
3.07 refrain from smoking (except at designated times and in designated places), drinking alcoholic beverages, and possessing, using, buying, or selling illegal drugs
3.08 wear hair and clothing in any fashion as long as it does not endanger his or her health or safety or the health and safety of other students, or create classroom disturbance. This applies to all school activities; the student may not be barred from participation in any school program, such as athletic teams, musical groups, or other clubs sponsored by the school because of hair or clothing.
4. The principal of each school will make copies of this policy available in the school's regular student, teacher, and parent notices and handbooks. Copies of these regulations will be made available from the principal of each building to any person on request and without cost.
5. These regulations, along with a certification indicating their availability as provided in paragraph 4, have been filed with the commissioner of education.
6. Additions and deletions to this policy will be promulgated and filed in the same manner as the original statement of the policy.
7. This policy is effective as per adoption date of the policy.
All persons must refrain from "hazing" as defined in Chapter 536, Acts of 1965, also known as Massachusetts General Law Chapter 269. The Central Berkshire Regional School District considers "hazing" will be subject to the school discipline codes, including suspension or exclusion.
Chapter 269, Section 17 states whoever is a principle organizer or participant in the crime of "hazing" as defined herein shall be punished by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars or by imprisonment in a house of correction for not more than one hundred days, or by both such fine and imprisonment.
The term "hazing" as used in this section and in sections eighteen and nineteen, shall mean any conduct or method of initiation into any student organization, whether public or private property, which willfully or recklessly endangers the physical or mental health of any student or other person. (Central Berkshire Regional School District students come under the jurisdiction of the schools as outlined in policy #6510. Provisions of the state law would be in effect on private property.)
Such conduct shall include whipping, beating, branding, forced calisthenics, exposure to the weather, forced consumption of any food, liquor, beverage, drug or other substance, or any other brutal treatment or forced physical activity which is likely to adversely affect the physical health or safety of any such student or other person, or which subjects such student or other person to extreme mental stress, including extended deprivation of sleep or rest or extended isolation.
Section 18 - Whoever knows that another person is the victim of "Hazing" as defined in section seventeen and is at the scene of such crime shall, to the extent that such person can do so without danger or peril to himself or others, report such crime to an appropriate law enforcement official as soon as reasonably practicable. Whoever fails to report such crime shall be punished by a fine of not more than five hundred dollars. (State Law).
DRUG/ALCOHOL ASSISTANCE, PREVENTION AND DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES (POLICY #6730)
6730.1 The Central Berkshire Regional School District is committed to provide an environment for students to reach their maximum potential. To this end, it is necessary for each school and each student to remain alcohol and drug free.
6730.2 The use or possession of drugs, alcohol or look-alike-drugs by any student on school property, in schools, or at school functions is prohibited. Students shall be barred from any school sponsored event if they have been using alcohol, drugs, or look-alike-drugs prior to their attendance at or participation in said school sponsored activity.
6730.3 Along with the above strong prohibition, the school committee recognizes that use of alcohol and drugs is a concern affecting the mental, emotional, and physical health of students. Therefore, it is the committee’s belief that educational programs should be planned, designed and evaluated in order to afford students opportunities in making positive choices regarding their health.
6730.4 The school committee also recognizes that alcohol and drug abuse are part of a broader scope of problems involving the individual and society. These problems include a breakdown in confidence and communication between young people and adults. The committee has a responsibility to strengthen, promote and protect trust between people.
6730.5 The school committee recommends a broad educational program for students, school personnel, parents and citizens in the areas of alcohol and drug education, use and abuse; and it supports efforts to promote trust between students and adults.
6730.6 Should there be breaches of conduct concerning alcohol and drugs, the school committee supports the administration, principals and superintendent, in effecting the following procedures for disciplinary action to insure a positive and productive learning environment in its schools.
Procedures for Disciplinary Action:
Definition of Terms:
Alcoholic Beverage. Alcohol spirits, liquor, wine, beer, and every liquid or solid containing alcohol spirits, wine, or beer in which contains half of 1% or more of alcohol by volume which is fit for beverage purposes either alone or when diluted, mixed, or combined with other substances.
Drug. As defined in Chapter 94, Section C of the Massachusetts General Laws, stimulants, amphetamines, depressants, tranquilizers, narcotics, relaxants, and hallucinogens or any other controlled substance regulated by the FDA and not administered as a properly prescribed medication.
Look-Alike-Drug. A substance or combination of substances, liquid or solid, which stimulate, appear like, or are intended to be drugs. (Examples are dry spices in cigarette wrappers and over the counter prescription drugs passed off as controlled substances.)
Use. The ingestion, inhalation, or injection of an alcoholic beverage, drug, or look-alike-drug or drug.
Possession. The having of an alcoholic beverage, drug, or look-alike-drug or drug paraphernalia a) on one’s person, or
(b) among one’s personal possessions such as a locker, motor vehicle, book bag or purse, or within the reasonable immediate vicinity of one’s person.
Parent. Father, mother, or guardian.
C.H.I.N.S. Child in Need of Service.
As principals and the superintendent choose courses of disciplinary action, they will distinguish between and among alcohol,
look-alike-drugs, and drugs which are controlled substances.Controlled Substances
A. As noted in the provision of the new Education Reform Act, Chapter 71, Section 37H:
Any student who is found on school premises or at school-sponsored or school-related events, including athletic games, in possession of a controlled substance is subject to expulsion from the school or school district by the principal.B. When a student is expelled under the new Education Reform Act, no school or school district
within the commonwealth shall be required to admit such student or to provide educational services to said student.C. Any student who is charged with a violation of section 6730.6 above, shall be notified in writing of an opportunity to present evidence and witnesses at said hearing before the principal.
D. After said hearing, a principal may at higher discretion, decide to suspend rather than expel;
provided, however, that any principal who decides that said student should be suspended shall state in writing to the superintendent and school committee his/her reasons for choosing suspension instead of expulsion as the most appropriate remedy. In this statement, the principal shall represent that, in his opinion, the continued presence of this student will not pose a threat to the safety, security and welfare of other students and staff in the school.E. Any student who has been expelled from a school district pursuant to these provisions shall have the
right to appeal to the superintendent. The expelled student shall have ten days from the date of expulsion in which to notify the superintendent of his appeal. The student has the right to counsel at a hearing before the superintendent. The subject matter of the appeal shall not be limited solely to a factual determination of whether the student has violated any provisions of this policy.F. When a student is expelled under the provisions of this section and applies for admission to another
school for acceptance, the superintendent of the sending school shall notify the superintendent of the receiving school of the reasons for the pupil’s expulsion.G. If a student is suspended from school, the student will be referred to a community based substance
abuse prevention or treatment agency or a school-based program. A student failing to attend treatment will result in the student being required to appear before the superintendent and Education Subcommittee for a recommendation to the full committee with regard to a long term suspension or exclusion hearing.Alcohol and Look-Alike-Drugs
A. If a student is suspected of being under the influence of an alcoholic beverage or in possession of or
under the influence of a look-alike-drug:1. The principal and superintendent shall be immediately notified.
2. The student shall be immediately examined by a school nurse if available. In addition, if
deemed appropriate by the administrator, any one or more of the following may be undertaken.a. The student will be sent to a physician for examination.
b. The school will notify the student’s parents.
c. The administration will assist the student in arranging for a community-based
or counseling service.d. The administration will notify the local police.
B. If a student is found to be using or in possession of an alcoholic beverage or a look-alike-drug:
1. First Offense---The student will be suspended from school, generally for a period of three
to five days. In addition:a. The parent will be notified of the offense.
b. The local police department will be notified of the offense. Any contraband will be
turned over to the police.c. The principal will refer the student to a community-based substance abuse prevention
or treatment agency (such as the Berkshire Council on Alcohol and Addictions) or the school guidance department.d. The student will meet with the Youth Assistance Counselor and an assessment will
be made to determine the scope of the student’s problem.e. Unless a student is exhibiting high risk behavior, he/she will attend a six week
informational group to be conducted during school.f. Upon completion of the six week group, the student will undergo an exit evaluation
at which time further recommendations will be made.g. Failure of the student to attend any treatment or counseling will result in the student
being required to appear before the superintendent and the Education Subcommittee for a recommendation to the full School Committee with regard to a long-term suspension or exclusion.h. The school committee, on receipt of the superintendent and Education Subcommittee’s
recommendation, may expel, suspend, or take such other actions as it deems appropriate.2. Second Offense -- The student will be suspended from school, generally for a period of
five to seven days. In addition:a. The parent will be notified that the student has committed a second offense.
b. The local police department will be notified of the offense. Any contraband will
be turned over to the police department.c. The principal will refer the student to a community-based substance abuse prevention or treatment agency (such as the Berkshire Council on Alcohol and Addictions) or the school guidance department.
d. The student will meet with a Youth Assistance Counselor and a case history and second assessment will be completed in order to determine the scope of the student's problem. A
parent will be asked to sign a release to permit an exchange of all information obtained by either the District or the Agency in order to facilitate both the District's and the Agency's efforts to meet the needs Of the student.
e. The counselor will establish the number of mandatory sessions that the student will attend.
f. A C.H.I.N.S. or care and protection order maybe sought. Whether or not this is sought will be determined by (1) the degree of cooperation exhibited by the parent and the student and (2) the recommendations) after communication among the counselor, the school principal, and a member of the school guidance staff.
g. If the substance abuse is determined to be severe, the student may be referred to various community-based treatment or counseling organizations.
h. Failure of the student to attend any treatment or counseling session may result in the student being required to appear before the superintendent and the Education Subcommittee with regard to a long-term suspension or expulsion.
I. The full School Committee, upon receipt of the superintendent and Education Subcommittee's recommendation, may expel, suspend, or take such other action as it deems appropriate.
C. A student who is found distributing or selling alcohol or a look-alike-drug or in possession of a quantity of alcohol or a look-alike-drug.
1. First and subsequent offenses -- The student shall be suspended from school for a minimum of nine days or may be expelled. In addition:
a. The parent will be notified.
b. The local police department will be notified of the offense. Any contraband will be turned over to the police department.
c. The principal will refer the student to a community-based substance abuse prevention of treatment agency (such as Berkshire Council of Alcohol and Addictions) or the school guidance department.
d. The student will meet with the Youth Assistance Counselor and a case history and assessment will be completed in order to determine the scope of the student’s problem. A parent will be asked to sign a release to permit an exchange of all information obtained by either the District or Agency's efforts to meet the needs of the student.
e. The counselor will establish the number of mandatory sessions that the student is to attend.
f. A C.H.I.N.S. or care and protection order may be sought. Whether or not this is sought. will be determined by (1) the degree of cooperation exhibited by the parent and the student and (2) the recommendation(s) after communication among counselor, the school principal, and a member of the school guidance staff.
g. If the substance abuse is determined to be severe, the student may be referred to various community@ treatment or counseling organizations.
h. Failure of the student to attend any treatment or counseling session may result in the student being required to appear before the superintendent and the Education Subcommittee for a recommendation to the full School Committee with regard to a long term suspension or expulsion.
I. The School Committee upon receipt of the Education Subcommittee’s recommendation may expel, suspend, or take such other action as it deems appropriate.
POLICY #6630 (SUSPENSION AND EXCLUSION)
Suspension is defined as the act of the chief administrator in removing a student from school for a period not to exceed ten (10) consecutive school days. Exclusion is defined as an act of the school committee in removing a student from school permanently or for any period of time exceeding ten (10) consecutive school days.
6630.1 A principal or the superintendent of schools may suspend a student for a period not to exceed ten (10) consecutive school days for disobedience, misbehavior, misconduct or violation of any law or school policy.
6630.11 Prior to suspension, a student shall be informed either orally or in writing of the charge (s)
against him or her, and the basis for such charge (s) and be given an opportunity to present his or her version of the incident (s) giving rise to the charge (s) in an informal hearing before a principal or vice principal.
6630.12 A student may be suspended prior to notice and hearing if he or she poses a continuing danger to person (s) or property or is an ongoing threat to disrupt the academic process. In such cases, notice of the informal hearing is to be given within twenty-four (24) hours of the decision to suspend and the informal hearing must be held within seventy-two (72) hours of removal.
6630.13 In an informal hearing, the principal or assistant principal is not required to give the student opportunity to secure counsel, to confront or cross-examine witnesses, or to call his or her own witnesses.
6630.14 Suspension may be used as a preliminary step to exclusion from school.
6630.15 Whenever practicable, the student's parent or guardian will be orally informed of the suspension prior to the student's departure from school. Within twenty-four (24) hours after the suspension, the student's parent or guardian will be informed in writing of the reason for and the length of the suspension.
6630.16 Suspension of a special needs student must be in accordance with applicable Department of Education rules and regulations.
6630.2 The school committee may exclude a student from school permanently or for any period of time exceeding ten (10) consecutive school days for very serious disobedience, misconduct, misbehavior or violation of any law or school policy.
6630.21 Prior to a vote of exclusion, the student and his or her parent shall be informed in writing of the charge (s) and be advised of a right to a hearing before the school committee.
6630.22 On the request of the student or a parent or guardian, the school committee will hold a hearing on the charge (s) prior to a vote on exclusion.
6630.23 At the hearing, the student may be represented by counsel, cross-examine witnesses, call his or
her own witnesses and present evidence and argument to the school committee.6630.24 The vote to exclude a student from school must be by majority of the members present and must be taken with the presence of a quorum of committee members.
Expulsion of a special needs student must be in accordance with applicable Department of Education rules and regulations.6630.3 The Director of Special Education shall be notified of a suspendable offense committed by a special needs student.
6630.4 The Director of Special Education shall maintain records of the number of suspensions and exclusions of special needs students.
JURISDICTION OF THE SCHOOL6510.1 Students of the Central Berkshire Regional School District are considered under the jurisdiction of the school.
6510.11 while on school grounds or within the school.
6510.12 while traveling to and from school for a reasonable amount of time as determined by the administration.
6510.13 while at any school-sponsored activity
There will be no smoking by anyone at any time in any building or on school grounds of the Central Berkshire Regional School District. Student violators will be subject to suspension.
OTHER POLICIES
At the Middle School, the following guidelines will be followed with regard to non-promotion:
1. failure in two major subjects or any three subjects whether major or minor or a combination thereof.
2. legitimate request of parents
3. agreement between administration and parents
Students may obtain passing grades in failed subjects in the summer sessions offered by the Pittsfield School System. In some cases private tutors will also be allowed, but the final decision will be made by the administration. Information regarding summer school may be obtained in the Guidance Center.
Students with one failure for the year will be promoted to the next grade level, but must make up this failure
either in summer school or during the following academic year.
RIGHTS OF NON-CUSTODIAL PARENTS
If notified of a pending or actual divorce or separation between parents of a school-age child, the following policy and procedure shall apply:
A natural parent who is separated or divorced from the parent with legal custody of their child shall have the same rights as custodial parents in the following areas, unless these rights have been limited by court action:
Access to their child's records;
Visitation to observe their child, in accordance with the school's visiting policy.
Conference with teacher to discuss their child's educational progress.
Custodial parents who wish to limit the above rights must provide the school with a copy of the relevant court document.
To save children, parents, and the school from embarrassment and anguish, the following matters -if not already classified by a legal document - should be spelled out in writing by the custodial parent:
Opportunity for the non-custodial parent to meet privately with a child in school;
Opportunity for the non-custodial parent to take a child away from the school.
Lacking specific instructions in writing from the custodial parent or a court document on the matters in the above, school principals will assume non-custodial parents do not have these opportunities.
GUIDELINES CONCERNING STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
In order to prepare our students for life in a democratic society, it is necessary that students fully understand their basic rights. Equally important is the need for students to fulfill their basic responsibilities. The statement which follows is an effort to clearly and concisely describe the rights and responsibilities of students in the Central Berkshire Regional School District.
The State has provided all school systems with a policy on Aids. The Central Berkshire Regional School District has developed additional guidelines and procedures. Copies of these guidelines are available from the Principal upon request.
ALTERNATIVE EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS
1. Special Needs Programs for students in need of special education are available. Information about such programs may be obtained from the Director of Special Needs, a principal or the student's guidance counselor.
2. Vocational Education Programs in vocational education are available for students in secondary school - Grades 9-12 and post-secondary students. Applications must be submitted to the Superintendent of Schools for secondary school students by
April 1 for the next school and for post-secondary school students by February 1 for the next school year. Applications may be obtained from the Guidance Department at Wahconah Regional High School.
Students have the right to fair and consistent disciplinary actions by teachers and administrators.
Students have the right to due process in disciplinary proceedings; that is, students shall be informed of the specific policy or regulation which has been violated; and shall be given an opportunity to present his or her side of the issue before being proceeded against. In cases where serious penalties are recommended, the principal or superintendent of schools may invoke more formalized hearing procedures. (See Appendix 1 for procedure to be followed in suspension and expulsion cases). Students shall not be held accountable by school officials for any behavior outside school time or off school property, except during school sponsored activities or as indicated in the Athletic Training Code or when under the jurisdiction of the school as noted in 6510 in this booklet. Students have the right to make up work missed during absences for disciplinary reasons in the same manner as provided students who are absent for other reasons. Students have the responsibility to make up missed work within a reasonable period of time, as determined by the principal.
Nothing contained in this statement on Student Rights and Responsibilities shall be construed to abrogate the authority vested by law in the school committee or to be construed to delegate that authority to others.
Students have the right to express themselves and to disseminate their views through speech, writing, publications, pictures, posters, buttons, insignia, arm bands, and all other media of communications, subject to reasonable regulations as to the use of school materials and equipment and the time and manner of distribution of materials. Students have the responsibility to declare authorship of materials, to refrain from libel and slander, to refrain from incitements to crime or violations of law or lawful regulation, and to refrain from the use of obscenities or obscene material. Circulation of petitions, circulars, newspapers, and other printed matter.
Students shall be allowed to distribute petitions, circulars, leaflets, newspapers, and other printed matter subject to the following specific limitations:
a. Time. The time of distribution shall be agreed to by the principal so as to prevent interference with individual class programs.
b. Manner. The manner of distribution shall be such that:
* coercion is not used to induce students to accept printed matter or to sign petitions;
* funds or donations are not collected for the for the materials distributed;
* leaflets and printed material to be distributed shall be submitted to the principal prior to such distribution (approval or disapproval of such distribution shall be within a reasonable time and the principal may limit the number of students or group of students who may distribute materials in any one day--as in similar circumstances an appeal of the principal's negative decision may be made to the superintendent);
* materials are not left undistributed or stacked for pickup while unattended at any place in the school or school grounds;
* the distributor must be a student of the school involved (a non-student must have the principal's written permission);
* student distributors have the responsibility of cleaning up any litter that may result; and,
* the distribution of materials shall not hinder the normal flow of traffic within the school.
Limitations on Right to Exercise Free Expression
In the exercise of the student rights described above, no person shall speak or distribute materials, wear buttons, or make other displays or post notices or other materials which are obscene according to current legal definitions; are libelous or slanderous according to current legal definitions; express or advocate racial, ethnic or religious prejudice; incite students so as to create a clear and present danger of the imminent commission of unlawful acts on school premises or of the violation of lawful school regulations or of the disruption of the orderly operation of the school.
In January l988 the Supreme Court decision in the case of Hazelwood School District vs. Kulhmeier the court concluded that the school authorities do not violate the first amendment rights of students in expressing control with the style and content of student speech in school sponsored expressive activities, as long as their actions are reasonably related to legitimate educational concerns.
Students have the right to an education and to equal educational opportunities through high school graduation.
Students have the responsibility to attend school and classes regularly and to refrain from any disruption of the educational program. Pregnant and married students have the same rights and responsibilities as other students, subject however, to the policies pertaining to pregnant and married students as contained in the official Policy Manual of the Central Berkshire Regional School District.
Students have the right to know the rules and regulations to which they are expected to conform. Students have the responsibility to abide by all published school and school committee policies and regulations. Students have the right to seek changes in policies and regulations by all appropriate means.
Students have the right to inspect their school records in accordance with the provisions of the "Students Records Regulation" approved by the Massachusetts Board of Education on January 28, 1975, and as amended in Ch.71, 34D and E in the 1981 statutes, Ch. 460, 1 and 2, a copy of which can be obtained from the building principal. Students have the responsibility to abide by said regulations.
Students shall be free from searches and seizures of their persons, papers, and personal effects with two exceptions: (1) articles in the possession of students in violation of school regulations may be seized if in plain view or as provided in the 1985 Supreme Court decision: "New Jersey vs. TLO" (This decision gives flexibility to school officials and teachers to conduct reasonable warrantless searches of students.) (2) the student's lockers, belonging to the school and supplied for student convenience, may be searched by a school official provided that the official has a reasonable basis to believe that articles are kept therein in violation of law or of school regulations.
Within each secondary school, and at the discretion of the building principal in each elementary school, students have the right to establish and select any government which they may adopt for themselves, as long as it is elective with offices and elections open to all students and a constitution is made available to all students. Within any such democratic government, students have the responsibility to participate in the development of programs and regulations beneficial to student life within the school.
Students have the right to form and participate in student organizations of their choice, and these organizations have the right to peacefully assemble and to conduct programs which do not endanger the health or safety, damage property, or disrupt the activities of others. Participants in student organizations have the responsibility to give timely notice to the principal of plans to assemble and to conduct such programs and in so doing, to respect the health, safety, property, rights and activities of others.
TITLE IX-CHAPTER 622 GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES
1. Provisions Related to the Initiation of Grievances
A. Any parent, guardian, student or other person or group who believes that Title IX, Chapter 622 regulations have been violated may grieve that violation.
B. All grievances or questions should be made known to the Chapter 622 Coordinator c/o Central Office, 20 Cleveland Road, Dalton MA or by telephone (413)684-0230.
C. The coordinator will follow all necessary steps to accomplish an amicable resolution and to reduce confrontation.All grievances at this level will be kept confidential and every effort will be made to reduce the sometimes sensitive issues discreetly and without further embarrassment and/or harassment.
D. If the coordinator is unable to resolve the grievance to the satisfaction of those concerned, then the grievance will be brought to the Personnel Sub-committee for review who in turn will make a recommendation to the full School Committee. A copy of the grievance will also be sent to the Bureau of Equal Educational Opportunity.
E. The School Committee will have thirty (30) days in which to respond in writing to the complaining party. A copy of this response will be sent to the Bureau of Equal Educational Opportunity.
2. Provisions Related to the Processing of Grievance
A. The Bureau of Equal Opportunity shall act as the representative of the Board of Education for the
purpose of receiving complaints pursuant to these regulations.
B. The Bureau of Equal Educational Opportunity shall, pursuant to a complaint received, conduct reviews to insure compliance. The School Committee and the specific school(s) involved shall cooperate to the fullest extent with such review.
C. In the event of non-compliance, the Board of Education may take such action as it sees fit including, but not limited to, withholding of funds or referral to the office of the Attorney General for appropriate legal action.
DIRECTORY AND YEARBOOK INFORMATION
The following public notice shall be published in the legal section of the school paper, school handbook, local newspaper of displayed on each school's bulletin board by September 1 of each year:
6430.11 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN:
That Central Berkshire Regional School District, pursuant to the U.S. General Education Provisions Act declares the following directory information" as provided in said act, and that information relating to students may be made public if said information is any of the following categories:
A. Student's name, address, telephone listing.
B. Date and place of birth
C. Major field of study.
D. Participation in officially recognized activities and sports.
E. Weight and height of members of athletic teams.
F. Dates of attendance.
G. Degrees and awards received.
H. The most recent previous educational agency or institution attended by the student, and
I. School-related photographs for use in yearbooks.
This public notice is required by law before such information can be placed in yearbooks or student directories. Any parent of any student in the district may notify the district by notifying the principal of the school in which said student attends, of the parent's desire that none of the above information may be released without the parent's consent, provided that such notification is given the district within thirty (30) days of this publication notice.
CHAPTER 227 AN ACT PROVIDING FOR DRUG FREE SCHOOL ZONES
Effective July 11, l989, anyone convicted of dealing drugs within one thousand feet of an elementary, vocational or secondary school will face a two year mandatory prison sentence. It will not matter whether the dealer knew he was near a school, whether it is a public or private school, or in session. The law will pertain to drug distributors, manufacturers or persons possessing a controlled substance with intent to distribute it. A fine of up to ten thousand dollars may also be imposed but not in lieu of the two year term of imprisonment.
CHAPTER 241 AN ACT PROVIDING FOR SUSPENSION OF A LICENSE TO OPERATE A MOTOR VEHICLE UPON CONVICTION OF VIOLATION OF THE CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE ACT.
A license to drive is one privilege drug offenders will now lose for certain. This new law provides that a conviction of any drug offense shall result in the loss of the right to drive to drive for a period of time up to five years. In the case of minors who may not yet have a driver's license at the time of their of their conviction, they may lose the right to obtain a license until reaching age twenty-one.
CHAPTER 322 AN ACT FURTHER REGULATING THE MISUSE OF DRIVER LICENSES AND IDENTIFICATION CARDS.
Teenagers and college students in particular should be aware that the mere possession of a false identification or license is an offense that now can send them to jail. A new law came into effect on July 11, 1989 that makes a broad spectrum of activities related to false I.D.'s or licenses punishable by a fine or imprisonment. These activities include, but are not limited to: making, using or carrying a false I.D. or license; using the cards or license of another; and furnishing false information in obtaining an I.D. or license. In addition, a conviction on any of these charges will result in an automatic one year suspension of the license to drive.
STATE LAW AND REGULATIONS REGARDING THE DISCIPLINE OF STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS:
With respect to removal of students with special needs from public school, Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 71B, section 3 states: "No school committee shall refuse a school age child with special needs admission to or continued attendance in public school without the prior written approval of the Department (of Education). No child who is so refused shall be denied an alternative form of education approved by the Department..." For purposes of this statute, the Department of Education has developed procedures which protect students with special needs from suspensions of more than ten (10) cumulative days in a school year. However, nothing in these procedures is intended to limit the provisions of Section 331 of the Chapter 766 Regulations for emergency evaluation and placement in"...instances of dangerously assaultive or self-abusive behavior..."