Bethlehem Central High School Student Handbook

Transcription

1 Bethlehem Central High School Student Handbook

2 Student Handbook Table of Contents BETHLEHEM CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DIRECTORY... 6 DAILY SCHEDULE & DELAY SCHEDULES DATES TO REMEMBER ASPEN BOARD OF EDUCATION SUMMARY OF STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT ATTENDANCE POLICY STUDENT SERVICES Counseling Services Test Dates and Information MEDICAL SERVICES Medication Policy Physical Exam Requirement Body Mass Index Immunization Requirements Dental Certificates School Health Screenings Dismissal for Illness or Injury During School Insurance Sports Information for Secondary Students ACADEMIC INFORMATION Academic Averages Course Load Course Registration Course Schedule Changes Diploma Requirements Academic Supports Course Failures Grades Grade Explanations Homework Making Up Assignments Honor Roll Incompletes Plagiarism and Cheating Student Assistance Time

3 Student Records Tests and Examinations GENERAL INFORMATION Acceptable Use Policy One to One Program Custody Issues Dances Daily Bulletin Dress Code Dignity for All Students Act Discipline Administrative Detention Restricted Study Hall Teacher Detention In School Suspension External Suspension Extracurricular Activities Electronic Devices in School Emergency Closings Faculty Workroom Idle Free School Zones Lockers Lost or Damaged School Materials Lost and Found Middle School Military Recruiters and Access to Student Information Open House Religious Holidays School Resource Officer School Safety Procedures Emergency Notification Fire Alarms & Drills Go Home Drill Visitors to School School Store Student Searches Department of Special Education & Student Support Services

4 Pupil Study Team School Social Workers Behavior Specialists Committee on Special Education Student Privileges Auditing Classes Early Dismissal Pass Late Arrival Library Media Center Pass System Student Center (Cafeteria) Volunteer Service Senior Privileges Senior Off Campus Pass Loss of Senior Privileges Student Publications & Surveys Tobacco Policy Transfers/Moving TRANSPORTATION Transportation Policies and Safety Procedures Medications on the Bus Transporting Items to School Transporting Large Objects and Musical Instruments Lost Articles Transporting Service Animals (guide dogs or companion animals) Security Bus & Pedestrian Safety Proper Crossing Procedures Parents Safety Responsibilities Drivers Responsibilities Bus Riders Responsibilities USE OF FACILITIES WORKING PAPERS SCHOOL BREAKFAST & LUNCH PROGRAM Cafeteria Information Free and Reduced Price Meal Information for Income Chart

5 How to Apply Report Changes Income Exclusions Nondiscrimination Statement Meal Service to Children with Disabilities Confidentiality Reapplication FORMS Senior Privileges Registering for an Off Campus Pass Registering For Parking on Campus Senior Off Campus Pass Registration Form Senior Parking Permit Junior Parking Permit Early Release Application Late Arrival Registration Oriole Yearbook Military Recruiting Information Opt Out Form DASA Reporting Form Free and Reduced Price Lunch Application Letter to Parents for School Meal Programs Income Eligibility Guidelines for Free and Reduced Price Meals Attendance Policy Summary

6 BETHLEHEM CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DIRECTORY Bethlehem Central High School Contact Information 700 Delaware Ave. Delmar, NY Bethlehem Main Office Phone #: Bethlehem High School Fax #: You may also visit our web site at: Board of Education Ms. Christine Beck, President Ms. Lynne Lenhardt, Vice President Dr. Charmaine Wijeyesinghe Mr. Jonathan Fishbein Mr. Michael Cooper Ms. Meredith Moriarty Ms. Holly Dellenbaugh Administration Ms. Jody Monroe, Superintendent Mr. David Hurst, Assistant Superintendent Ms. Judi Kehoe, Chief Business and Financial Officer Ms. Kathleen Johnston, Director of SESS Mrs. Cynthia Jurewicz, Transportation Director Mr. Gregg D. Nolte, Director of O&M Mr. Raymond Nardelli, Director of Technology FACULTY AND STAFF ROSTER Principal Mr. David Doemel Assistant Principal Ms. Heather Culnan Grade 9 Hall Principals Ms. Nicole Conway Grades 10 and 11 (A K) Mr. James Smith Grade 11 (L Z) and 12 Department Supervisors Mr. Andrew Baker Ms. Marisa Bel Ms. Jennifer Gonyea Mr. William Clairmont Mr. David Norman Mr. Nick Petraccione Ms. Melanie Painter Mr. Fred Powers Ms. Dena Sanders English World Languages Science/Technology Education Math Music Social Studies/Business Art Physical Education/FACS CSE Chair Athletic Director Mr. Len Kies Art Ms. Melanie Painter/Supervisor Ms. Kaaren Caron Ms. Kathleen Buckley Ms. Giovanna Prezio Ms. Marielle Martin 6

7 Ms. Kathleen Hahn Mr. Corey Fong Family and Consumer Science Mr. Fred Powers/Supervisor Ms. Maria Hayes Technology Education Ms. Jennifer Gonyea/Supervisor Mr. Anthony Cancio Mr. Eric Fana Ms. Kallie Yeager Mr. Lou Jada Mr. Kevin Shannon Counseling Center Ms. Kristen Connor/K-12 School Counselor Supervisor Ms. Kate Burkart Mr. Ryan St. John Dr. Lisa Carr Mr. Darnell Douglas Mr. Scott Carlton Ms. Deb Zeh Ms. Gayle Moriarty Ms. Kara Kowalski Student Assistance Counselor English Mr. Andrew Baker/Supervisor Ms. Sarah Trombadore Ms. Alicia Sharp Ms. Melissa DePaoli Ms. Elizabeth Edgar Mr. Paul Fogle Ms. Gretchen Gigante Mr. Steve Guilfoyle Ms. Morgan Flynn Mr. Rick Leach Ms. Stacey Hudecek Ms. Trish Piccini Mr. Jack Rightmyer Mrs. Eileen Turo Mr. William Wojcik Mr. Andrew Rickert Mathematics Mr. William Clairmont/Supervisor Mr. John Carlino Ms. Maryann Lynch Mr. Michael Fredette Mr. Michael Mysliwiec Mr. Thomas Fris Mr. David Scheid Ms. Karen Gentile Ms. Bev Hulse Ms. Kirsten Hynes Ms. Andrea Turner Mr. Michael Letzring Ms. Jill Venezia Ms. Rachel Linehan Ms. Kim Wise Ms. Durray Mahmood Ms. Milla Paxton Media Center Ms. Justine Nigro Ms. Kristy Eldeen Ms. Dorothy Rhone Music Mr. David Norman/Supervisor Mr. David Beck Mr. Patrick Beauregard Mr. Jason Dashew Physical Education & Health Mr. Fred Powers/Supervisor Mr. Matt Rehbit Ms. Kelly Ciavardoni Mr. Matt Bixby Mr. Sean Danahy Ms. Danielle Blanchard Ms. Candace Raderman Mr. Edmund Rohrmeier Ms. Christina Bieg 7

8 Science Ms. Jennifer Gonyea/Supervisor Mr. Adam Ayers Ms. Kelly Babic Ms. Erin Engelson Mr. Charles Evans Ms. Christine Zemsky Ms. Donna Graves Ms. Lisa Kniffin Mr. Georgios Athanassiadis Ms. Mary Lane Ms. Olivia Cauthorn Ms. Mary White Social Studies Mr. Nick Petraccione/Supervisor Ms. Pam Clark Ms. Susan Cullen Mr. A.G Irons Ms. Katie Leo Mr. Nick Ferguson Ms. Janey Julian Ms. Preya Krishna Kennedy Mr. Jason Majewski Ms. Stephanie Zanotta Mr. David Lendrum Mr. Shawn Mowry Mr. Ken Neff Mr. Paul O Reilly Ms. Rosalie Recchia Ms. Adrienne Ladd Ms. Rachel Rehbit Ms. Jamie Rowe Ms. Mary Beth Spath Ms. Caitlin Lentlie Mr. David Rounds Ms. Erynn Barber Mr. David Lewis Mr. Jason Greco Ms. Alicia Wilson Mr. David Vara Ms. Jessica Weimer Mr. Anthony Wilson Mr. Coughlin Business Education - Mr. Nick Petraccione/Supervisor Mr. Kevin Fottrell Special Education & Student Services Ms. Dena Sanders/Supervisor Ms. Donna Bailey Ms. Debra Barnes Ms. Catherine Cusato Ms. Mary Sheevers Ms. Jennifer Hackett Ms. Nancy Stathopoulos Ms. Lindsay Knott Ms. Jennifer Giraudin World Languages Ms. Marisa Bel/Supervisor Ms. Michele Atallah Ms. Teresita Barcia Ms. Jennifer Karp Ms. Shana Pellitteri Ms. Sara Herrero Mr. Sean Mooney Ms. Caitlin Young Mr. Bill Hogan Ms. Julie Stanco Ms. Maureen Lewicki Mr. Matthew Urban Ms. Sonya Christopher Ms. Evelyn Ledezma Ms. Elizabeth Kennedy Mr. Michael Mitchell Ms. Vanessa Treffert Ms. Jessica Westervelt Nurse Ms. Annmarie Marsh Ms. Beth Callahan 8

9 Non-instructional Roster Ms. Mary Scro/ISS Ms. Karen Ballard/Main Office Ms. Lisa Dillon/ Secretary Supervisors Office Ms. Rhonda Bohl/Principal s Secretary Ms. Laura Crandall/AP s Secretary Ms. Anne Spataro/Office Manager Ms. Kim Spada/District Copy Center Ms. Melissa Appleby/Athletics Ms. Kathy Johnson/Counseling Center Ms. Jennie Augar/Health Office Ms. Jane Hendron/Attendance Clerk Ms. Barbara Heineman /Media Center Ms. Mary Dugas/Registrar Ms. Venessa Ingraham/Counseling Center Cafeteria - Ms. Allissa Eiser, RD/Food Service Director Ms. Terri Bleichert Cook Ms. Joyce McGuire Ms. Connie Bruff Mr. Thomas Scanni Sr. Ms. Jennifer Moore Ms. Kim Hempstead Ms. Manon Desjardins, Food Service Technician Mr. Kevin Mosier Ms. Susan Olthoff Ms. Pam Graver Ms. Dawn Houck Ms. Lauren Shear Classroom Aides Ms. Terri Biszick Ms. Tracy Cox Mr. Ayoub Dounane Ms. Laura Empie Ms. Susan Fox Ms. April Oakley Ms. Deb Grieco Ms. Christine Hansen Ms. Trish Hardy Mr. Paul Moylan Ms. Maria Patti Ms. April Rooney Ms. Marianne Shanley Ms. Stacey Ridgway Ms. Lea McGrath Mr. Steve Adams Custodians Mr. George Petruska/Head Custodian Mr. Cody Deragon Mr. John Slaver Mr. Salvatore Celeone Mr. Keeba DesChamps Mr. Joshua Covey Mr. Nathan Wilkie Mr. Andrew Zaloga Mr. Ron Ziegler Night Supervisor Mr. Brian Smith Mr. Kevin Smith Mr. Andre Legrone Mr. Richard Wright Mr. Blake Frazee School Monitors Mr. Art Alverson Mr. Peter Berhaupt Ms. Janice Crookes Ms. Kayla Salisbury Mr. Bob MacFawn Ms. Sally Shields Ms. Claudia Tiberia Ms. Lori Salisbury 9

10 BETHLEHEM CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DAILY SCHEDULE Daily Schedule One Hour Delay Two Hour Delay Homeroom 7:35 7:43 8:35 8:40 9:35 9:40 Period 1 7:48 8:31 8:45 9:21 9:44 10:14 Period 2 8:36 9:19 9:26 10:02 10:18 10:48 Period 3 9:24 10:07 10:07 10:43 10:52 11:22 Period 4 10:12 10:55 10:48 11:24 11:26 11:56 Period 5 11:00 11:43 11:29 12:05 12:00 12:30 Period 6 11:48 12:31 12:10 12:46 12:34 1:04 Period 7 12:36 1:19 12:51 1:27 1:08 1:38 Period 8 1:24 2:07 1:32 2:07 1:42 2:07 Extra Help/ 2:15 3:00 dependent on weather conditions Period 9 BCHS DATES TO REMEMBER Wednesday, September 7...First Day of School Wednesday, September 27...BCHS Open House, 6 p.m. Marking Periods Report Cards Q1: September 7 November 9 November 17 Q2: November 13 January 26 February 2 Q3: January 29 April 13 April 20 Q4: April 16 June 22 July 3 Interim reports will be posted on ASPEN for all students about halfway through each marking period. 10

11 ASPEN All interim reports and report cards will be posted to Aspen. In addition, as teachers become more familiar with Aspen, many will be posting assignments that are classroom specific. Teachers have been engaged in Aspen training and are at different levels in learning how to incorporate the portal into their practice. As a result, individual teachers may provide more information than others. Aspen protects student data with the same advanced technology your bank uses to protect your financial accounts. We have carefully configured the system to ensure your child s information is confidential and can only be retrieved by you and authorized school personnel. BOARD OF EDUCATION The Board of Education, representing all district residents, is the governing body of the school district. The Board comprises seven members who are elected by district residents and receive no remuneration. Members serve threeyear terms of office, with two or three seats up for election each year at the time of the Annual School District Budget Vote (third Tuesday in May). Regular public board meetings are generally held on the first and third Wednesday evenings of every month, starting at 7:00 p.m. Additional meetings are typically added in February and March for budget development. Please check the district Web site ( or school notices for any meeting date changes. District residents interested in contacting the Board of Education may write to the Board c/o Educational Services Center, 700 Delaware Ave., Delmar, NY The Board also has an e mail address, boe@bcsd.neric.org. E mails received at that address will be forwarded to all Board members upon receipt. Individuals who have specific school, program or department related questions or who require an immediate response should contact the relevant school or department directly. 11

12 SUMMARY OF STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT Part 1: Introduction This document is a plain language summary of the Bethlehem Central Code of Conduct. The Bethlehem Central Code of Conduct was developed in consultation with teachers, parents, students, administrators and other school/community representatives. It was adopted by the Board of Education with the expectation of full compliance by all students on school property or participating in or attending school functions. The code includes high standards for student conduct, outlines clear consequences for students who break the rules and serves as a standard for consistency and fairness that protects students rights while promoting their responsibilities. This document s purpose is to highlight and summarize information of interest to Bethlehem Central students and their parents/guardians. It is not a replacement. You may find the full Bethlehem Central Code of Conduct at If you have questions regarding any of the information in this document, or the Bethlehem Central Code of Conduct, please contact the BCHS Administrative Team. Part 2: Definitions This section defines the terms: student, parent, school property, school function, disruptive student, violent student, weapon, gender, gender expression, gender identity and sexual orientation. Part 3: Essential Partners All students are expected to know and follow the regulations of the school district. All parents/guardians are expected to support their student s learning. Parents/guardians are responsible for their student s attendance, appropriate dress, communication with teachers and other school staff. All teachers, counselors, administrators, superintendent, board members and other school personnel are expected to promote and maintain a climate of mutual respect and dignity for all students regardless of actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, expression or sex. Part 4: Student Rights and Responsibilities The district is committed to safeguarding the rights given to all students under federal and state law and district policy. In addition, to promote a safe, healthy, orderly and supportive school environment, the district has established the following student rights and responsibilities. Each student has the right to take part in all district activities and education regardless of race, weight, color, gender, religion, religious practice, national origin, ethnic group, economic status, sexual orientation or disability. FERPA allows parents and students over 18 to review the student s educational records and request to amend any inaccuracies. They may also consent to disclose or withhold personally identifiable information within the student s record. Information received by teachers, administrators or other district officials is not privileged. Students have the responsibility to abide by the policies and regulations of the school district, contribute to maintaining and supporting a safe and orderly school environment that is conducive to learning, and may not interfere with the education or the rights of others. Part 5: Prohibited Student Conduct All students are expected to conduct themselves in an appropriate and civil manner. The purpose of defining prohibited student conduct/regulations is to prevent or deter unacceptable behavior and provide for uniformity and fairness in dealing with all students. Students will face disciplinary action for engaging in: disorderly conduct conduct that is violent or threatening conduct that endangers the safety, morals, physical or mental health or welfare of others 12

13 harassment misconduct on a school bus academic misconduct off campus misconduct that interferes with, or can reasonably be expected to substantially disrupt the education process in the school or at a school function. Part 6: Academic Integrity Any act of academic dishonesty (cheating, fabrication, plagiarism, facilitating dishonesty) will result in a student being placed on formal academic probation for the remainder of his/her high school career. A grade of zero may be entered for the assignment and an administrator will notify the student and parents of the incident. Understand that a zero grade may cause a student to fail a quarter, an exam or a course. Part 7: Standard for Student Conduct Regular attendance and punctuality are expected of students from the first day of school. Students may be denied the privilege of participating in or attending extracurricular events due to tardiness/class attendance. Students may lose the opportunity to take further exams and quizzes in a course if the total number of excused and unexcused absences in that course exceeds 30 for a full year course and 15 for a semester course. Students are entitled to express their personal opinions verbally or in writing or by symbolic speech. This expression should not interfere with the educational process or disrupt the rights of others. Search and Seizure: Student lockers and desks are the property of the school district. However, the school district is not responsible for any items left in lockers or in desks. School district officials have the right and responsibility to search student lockers and/or desks at any time. The Bethlehem Central School Board authorizes the superintendent, building principals and their designees to conduct searches of students, their belongings and their automobiles that are parked on the school campus if the authorized school official has reasonable suspicion to believe that the search will result in evidence that the student violated the law or the Code of Conduct. Items that are prohibited on school property or are used to disrupt or interfere with the educational process may be removed from student lockers, desks and/or automobile or other personal property by school authorities. The police will be contacted if any item recovered presents a violation of law. Part 8: Computer and Internet Acceptable Use Students use of computers and access to the Internet while at school are privileges and are intended to be for educational purposes only. All parents and students are required to review and sign the Bethlehem Central School District s Computer and Internet Acceptable Use Agreement. By signing the agreement, parents and students agree to comply with the regulations set forth. Failure to comply with the regulations may result in disciplinary action. Part 9: Student Dress Code A. All students are expected to give proper attention to personal cleanliness and to dress appropriately for school and school functions. Students and their parents have the primary responsibility for acceptable student dress and appearance. B. Teachers and all other district personnel should exemplify and reinforce acceptable student dress and help students develop an understanding of appropriate appearance in the school setting. C. A student s dress, grooming and appearance, including hair, jewelry, make up and nails, shall: 1. Be safe and appropriate and not disrupt or interfere with the educational process. 2. Not include extremely brief, revealing or see through garments or garments that expose undergarments and/or midriffs, including spaghetti string straps, halter tops, etc. 3. Not include pajama pants, or other sleep attire. 4. Include footwear at all times. Footwear that is a safety hazard will not be allowed. 13

14 5. Not include the wearing of hats/headgear inside the school during the school day except for a medical or religious purpose, or for approved activities. 6. Not include items that are vulgar, obscene or libelous or that denigrate others on account of race, color, weight, gender, religion, ethnic origin, sexual orientation or disability in an expressed or implied manner. 7. Not promote or endorse the use of alcohol, tobacco or illegal drugs or encourage other illegal or violent activities. 8. Not denote or represent gang affiliation such as bandanas, beads, jewelry or other indicators and/or symbols intended expressly so. D. Students who violate the student dress code shall be required to modify their appearance by covering or removing the offending item and, if necessary or practical, replacing it with an acceptable item. E. Any student who refuses to do so shall be subject to discipline, up to and including in school suspension for the day. F. Any student who repeatedly fails to comply with the dress code shall be subject to further discipline, up to and including suspension. G. Each building principal or designee shall be responsible for informing all teachers, students and their parents of the student dress code at the beginning of the school year and any revisions to the dress code made during the school year. Part 10: Prohibition of Gang Activity, Fraternities, and/or Sororities Students are not to promote any exclusionary group on school grounds. This includes wearing or distributing clothing, jewelry, insignias or symbols/signs of membership; soliciting members; hazing prospective members; using signs/symbols to communicate to other members, or defacing school property. Part 11: Transportation All school buses and stops are school property and are subject to all rules set forth in the Bethlehem Central Code of Conduct. Each student has an individual responsibility to help insure the safety of all students on the bus by following the rules. Students may not bring prohibited items onto a school bus. This includes, but is not limited to, skateboards, animals, flammable materials, medications or controlled substances and weapons. Students must comply with the direction of the bus driver. Students may not consume food or beverages on the school bus. Part 12: Athletic Policies and Training Rules Each student athlete receives an Interscholastic Athletic Handbook, which clearly defines the standards for student athlete behavior. Before a student is permitted to participate on an athletic team, both the student and parent must sign an Interscholastic Athletics Participation form and return it to either the athletic director or the school nurse. The signatures of both the student athlete and the parent indicate that each agrees to respect and abide by these rules and behavior expectations in order to participate in interscholastic athletics at Bethlehem Central. Student athletes will be disciplined by school district administrators for infractions using the guidelines set forth in the Interscholastic Athletic Handbook and this Code of Conduct. Part 13: Parking High School students with a valid driver s license may be eligible to drive to school and park on school grounds in the parking area designated for students. Starting August 28, parking permits will be on sale for seniors only. The cost is $40 and students may pick up an application form in the main office or at the bottom of this handbook. Starting on September 25, parking permits will be available for juniors as well. All student vehicles parking on campus must be registered with the school and must display a current BCHS permit sticker. Parking is a privilege. Students must be in good standing behaviorally and academically in order to obtain a parking permit. Students who continuously violate school policies and/or parking regulations forfeit future parking privileges. Students who use the parking area without authorization may have their car towed at the owner s expense. Upon payment of a non refundable fee, each student is issued one parking spot for the school year. Parking spaces are limited and permits are issued on a first come first served basis. The school is not responsible for damage to personal vehicles. Safe driving techniques, 14

15 including reduced speed, are in effect at all times particularly in the vicinity of pedestrians and school buses. Students must use the proper entrance and exit to all school parking lots. Consequences will be assigned to those who violate these rules, including but not limited to the car being towed at the owner s expense. Part 14: Extracurricular Organizations and Clubs Student organizations cannot restrict membership on the basis of race, color, weight, gender, religion, ethnic origin, economic status, sexual orientation or disability. Students may not be denied participation in any activity for any reason other than those established by state, county or school eligibility requirements and those requirements legitimately related to the purpose of the activity. The school district requires student organizations to register with the school in order to obtain available school funds and the use of school facilities. All student meetings in the school buildings or on school grounds may function only as part of the formal education process or as authorized by the building principal. No student group may meet without the direct supervision of a school district employee. Student organizations have the responsibility to make clear to the public that their programs do not necessarily reflect the view of the institution as a whole. Use of the school or district name when participating in a public demonstration is improper unless the building principal or his/her designee has granted permission. Student organizations also have the responsibility to recognize that persons who disagree with their view and programs have the right to choose for themselves whether to listen to the groups points of view and must not be coerced or harassed into doing so. Participation in extracurricular organizations and clubs is a privilege and violations of the Code of Conduct may result in suspension of said privilege. Part15: Dance Guidelines It is the expectation of the school district that all students will behave in an appropriate manner at all school events, as outlined in the Code of Conduct. In order to attend school dances, students must be in good standing behaviorally. Students attending High School dances must be enrolled in grades 9 through 12 at Bethlehem Central High School. Guests attending High School dances can be no older than 19 years of age and must be approved in advance by the building principal. Students and guests under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be subject to the penalties of the school district as outlined in this Code of Student Conduct. Chaperones may use passive alcohol sensors prior to and/or during the dances to more accurately determine whether or not a student has consumed alcohol. The passive alcohol sensor is a screening device and is not a Breathalyzer. This device will be used to check all students when they enter the dance and periodically during the event or upon departure. If it is determined that the student has been drinking, parents will be called and disciplinary consequences will follow in accordance with the District Code of Conduct. Part 16: Procedures for Addressing Student Misconduct & Violations of the Code of Conduct Discipline is most effective when it deals directly with the problem at the time and place it occurs and in a way that students view as progressive, fair and impartial. School personnel may impose a more severe penalty for a first violation depending on the specific facts and circumstances of an incident. Any weapon, alcohol or illegal substance found shall be confiscated immediately, followed by notification to the parent of the student involved and the appropriate disciplinary sanction, which may include permanent suspension and referral for prosecution. The building principal or designee will consult with the appropriate local law enforcement agency regarding violations that constitute a crime. Notification may be made by telephone, a written letter, or by an . If the conduct of a student is related to a disability or suspected disability, the students shall be referred to the Committee on Special Education when required by law. Discipline administered will be consistent with the separate requirements of this Code of Conduct for disciplining students with a disability or presumed to have a disability. A 15

16 student identified as having a disability shall not be disciplined for behavior related to his/her disability, except to the extent permitted by law. All students are expected to promptly report violations of the Code of Conduct to any staff member or administrator. Any student observing another student possessing a weapon, alcohol or illegal substance on school property or at a school function shall report this information immediately to any staff member or administrator. All school district personnel who are authorized to impose disciplinary sanctions are expected to do so in a prompt, fair and lawful manner. Removal of a Disruptive Student from the Classroom: A student s behavior can affect a teacher s ability to teach and can make it difficult for other students in the classroom to learn. For purposes of the Code of Conduct, a disruptive student is defined as substantially disruptive of the educational process or substantially interferes with the teacher s authority over the classroom. A substantial disruption of the educational process or substantial interference with a teacher s authority occurs when a student demonstrates a persistent unwillingness to comply with the teacher s instructions or repeatedly violates the teacher s classroom behavior rules. A removal of a student from class at the secondary level will be for up to three days. The removal from class applies only to the specific class where the disruption occurred. The student will receive alternative instruction during that class period. The teacher must comply with the removal process outlined in the District Code of Conduct. Parents will be notified and a conference held, if applicable. Removal of a student with a disability may constitute a change in the student s placement. Accordingly, no teacher may remove a student with a disability from his or her class until he or she has verified with the building principal that the removal will not violate the student s rights under state or federal law or regulation. Part 17: Disciplinary Consequences and Sanctions There are three levels of disciplinary actions and consequences as outlined in the chart below. Understand that the nature and severity of an offense can escalate it to a higher category and that any infractions which violate the law will be referred to law enforcement agencies. An ongoing pattern of disruption, truancy, drug and alcohol usage or insubordination will result in a referral to the Juvenile Justice Systems (PINS) The range of consequences listed below is progressive. Consequences escalate as actions recur. These lists are examples only and are not all inclusive. Level 1 Infractions Level 1 Consequences Dress code violations Failure to complete homework/coursework Unprepared for physical education; Inappropriate behavior in school, including on the bus and during lunch, school assemblies, and other school sponsored events or activities Swearing/inappropriate language Use of unapproved electronic devices (those with no educational purpose) such as personal music players, cell phones, video games, pagers or laser pointers Buying/selling items without prior approval of school district official Abuse of student privileges Minor class disruptions Building principal or designee may choose one or more of the following consequences and are not limited from using more severe consequences. Loss of privileges Loss of free time (restricted study hall, restricted lunch) Loss of participation in athletic or extra curricular activities Counseling Detention Parent contact/conference Confiscation of electronic devices 16

17 Failure of student leader (such as not limited to student government representative, athletic team leaders, class officer) to exemplify positive student behavior Tardiness Class cutting/leaving class without permission Unexcused absence/truancy Cheating/plagiarism Insubordination, failure to comply with direction given by staff Removal, replacement or covering of item that violates dress code Loss of student leadership position Internal School Suspension Level 2 Infractions Any misbehavior whose frequency and/or seriousness disrupts the educational process or poses a threat to the health and safety of others is considered a Level II infraction. These infractions may be reported to the NYS Education Department as violent and disruptive incidents. Examples of Level II Infractions include: Recurring or serious Level I infractions Harassing/bullying/cyberbullying and cyberthreats/menacing Physically aggressive behavior Cutting detention Physical altercation Inappropriate use of computer or Internet access Vandalism totaling less than $100 Possession, use, sale or distribution of tobacco products or alcohol Gambling E Cigarettes Level 3 Infractions Any misbehavior that poses an immediate threat to the health and safety of self or others in school and may require police intervention is considered a Level III infraction. These infractions are reported to the NYS Education Department as violent and disruptive incidents. Examples of Level III Infractions are: Recurring or serious Level I or II infractions Assault resulting in physical injury/serious physical injury Vandalism totaling more than $100 Possession, use or threatened use of a weapon Possession, use, sale or distribution of illegal drugs or unauthorized prescription drugs Burglary Arson Bomb threat/false fire alarm/false 911 call Level 2 Consequences Building principal or designee may choose one or more of the following consequences and are not limited from using more severe consequences: Continuation of Level I consequences In school suspension Suspension from lunch Removal from class External suspension Suspension from transportation Loss of computer or Internet privileges Restitution Principal s Hearing Filing of a Person in Need of Supervision (PINS) Petition Level 3 Consequences The Building principal or designee may choose one or more of the following consequences and are not limited from using more severe consequences. Continuation of Level I or II consequences External suspension Superintendent s Hearing Exclusion from school Any student found guilty of bringing a weapon onto school property will be subject to suspension from school for at least one calendar year. 17

18 Homicide Sexual offenses (forcible and other) Robbery Kidnapping Reckless endangerment Larceny Rioting Possession of fireworks Extortion Hazing Trespassing Guidelines for Student Suspensions: The Board of Education of the Bethlehem Central School District places primary responsibility for the suspension of students with the Superintendent and the building Principals. The Superintendent, Principals, or their designees are responsible for following appropriate procedures for student suspension. When the building principal has exhausted all available alternatives and resources and feels that the student s continued presence in school would constitute a threat or danger to himself/herself or other students or that the student is violent and/or disruptive as defined in accordance with law and Commissioner s Regulations, the student will also be referred to the superintendent of schools. The Building principal can suspend a student for five days or less. In cases where the student does not pose an immediate danger or threat of disruption to the school environment, parents will be notified of the proposed suspension by phone and by letter within 24 hours. The charges against the student will be described and the student and parents will have the right to an informal conference to discuss the charges. If a student s presence constitutes a danger or threat of disruption, the notice and opportunity for an informal hearing shall take place as soon after the suspension as reasonably practical. If a parent wishes to appeal a suspension, a formal hearing may be held to examine evidence. If this does not provide resolution, the parent may file a written appeal to the Superintendent of schools within five business days. If a student identified as having a disability is suspended for more than 10 days, the student will be referred to the Committee on Special Education for a Manifestation Determination Hearing. When a student has been suspended and is of compulsory attendance age, immediate steps shall be taken to provide alternative instruction that is of an equivalent nature to that provided in the student s regularly scheduled classes. Although the alternative instruction need not match in every respect the instructional program previously offered to the student, it must be adequate enough so that the student may complete his/her course work. Part 18: Discipline of Students with Disabilities The Board recognizes that it may be necessary to suspend, remove or otherwise discipline students with disabilities to address disruptive or problem behavior. The Board also recognizes that for students with disabilities there are prescribed procedures whenever school authorities intend to impose discipline upon them. The Board is committed to ensuring that the procedures followed for suspending, removing or otherwise disciplining students with disabilities are consistent with 3214 of the Education Law and Part 201 of the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education. While the school has the authority to suspend or remove a child for violating the school s Code of Conduct, the parent and child have certain rights throughout the process. Part 19: Corporal Punishment No teacher, administrator, officer, employee or agent of a school district in this State shall use corporal punishment against a student. Part 20: Visitors to School The building principal or designee is responsible for all persons in the building and on the grounds. 18

19 Part 21: Public Conduct on School Property All persons on school property or attending a school function shall conduct themselves in a respectful and orderly manner. In addition, all persons on school property or attending a school function are expected to be properly attired for the purpose they are on school property. Part 22: Dissemination The Board of Education will ensure that the community, faculty, students, staff and parents are aware of the Code of Conduct. ATTENDANCE POLICY Each student must be in homeroom by 7:35 a.m. At 7:30 a.m., a bell will ring, signaling students to move to homeroom. Any student arriving after 7:35 a.m. is considered late. A written note from the student s parent or guardian must be provided upon the student s late arrival to school. If the student does not have a note upon arrival, they will be given three days to submit the note to the main office. Consequences will be assigned to students that do not submit a note. Reasons for excused lates include: Illness Religious obligation Medical or dental appointments Impassable roads or severe weather conditions Illness or death in the family Court appearance NOTE: A student who presents with 5 illness or medical/dental appointment notes per quarter will provide physician s documentation of illness/treatment. Late referrals will count in eligibility totals for all students for special events as well as junior/senior privileges. Students are allowed five unexcused lates per quarter. At the sixth late, the student is referred to the dean for disciplinary action. Consequences may include: After school detention Restricted lunch Suspension of privileges for grades Further consequences may apply as per the Code of Conduct Late to Class Students late to class will be kept in class and the teacher will assign appropriate make up time and consequences. These may include teacher detention, teacher phone call to parent/guardian or other sanctions. Class Attendance Policy The faculty of BCHS believes attendance is more than an obligation. Student attendance and class participation are vital to successful learning. Therefore, student absences, including excused and unexcused absences, in excess of thirty (30) class meetings for a full year course and fifteen (15) class meetings for a semester course may result in the loss of opportunity to complete exams and other course requirements. Students are expected to remain in the course if they wish to be eligible to enroll in summer school. Any students changing courses at the start of the year or semester are to remain in the class until they receive formal notice from the Counseling Center that they have been removed from the class roster. Failure to comply with school rules will result in the assignment of detention. Student attendance at a school sponsored program or an alternative educational experience (e.g., field trip or music lesson) is not considered an absence from class. Teachers expect homework to be done on time. The faculty, 19

20 counselors and administrators will work together to inform parents and students regarding any attendance concerns. Class Cuts Good class attendance is vital to academic success. Class cuts are detrimental to learning. Any student with three class cuts will be subject to an automatic attendance conference with an administrator, parent, and other school staff. STUDENT SERVICES Counseling Services Phone: (518) , x22950 Fax (518) The Counseling Center offers classroom activities, workshops and group discussions for students at each grade level throughout the school year. Students are informed of these activities through the daily morning announcements, the Counseling Center newsletter and by invitation. More information about these and other events are available online on the Counseling Center web page and from Naviance. Also note that the High School daily morning announcements are posted on the High School web page. School counselors are available throughout the year to help students with educational, personal or social concerns. Our goal is to help each of our students reach her/his potential in all areas. Please feel free to contact us regarding your student s educational and personal development. We look forward to working with you and your child and to a successful and productive school year. Counseling Center (on the web) BCHS Counseling Center: center/ NAVIANCE: Test Dates and Information PSAT Information for Juniors The Preliminary SAT/National Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/ NMSQT) will be administered at Bethlehem Central High School during the school day on Saturday, October 14. All juniors planning to apply for college admission should take this test. The PSAT is a shortened version of the SAT I (Scholastic Assessment Test) and serves as a preview for students taking the test. Typically, juniors take the SAT I once in the spring of grade 11 and again in the fall of grade 12. The PSAT is also used for the National Merit Scholarship competition. Nationwide, the top 50,000 scores put students in a selected group qualifying them either as semi finalists or commended students. Some students win college scholarships in this competition. A letter outlining this exam and registration details will be distributed to Grade 11 students via Aspen in September. Students may register for the PSAT/NMSQT in the Counseling Center Office beginning Wednesday, September 13, To do so, we will need a check for $30.00 made payable to BCSD. The deadline is Thursday, October 5 (late fee of $10 after registration deadline). Upon registering, each student will receive a booklet containing a complete practice test. On test day, Saturday, October 14, 2017, students should bring sharpened #2 pencils and a picture ID. Please note that students may use calculators. Any scientific, four function or graphing calculator will be allowed. If you have any questions, please contact the Counseling Center at

21 Other Test Dates PSAT/NMSQT: Saturday, October 14, 2017 AP EXAMS: May 7 11, 2018 and May 14 18, Test Dates *=Test held at Bethlehem Central High School. = This test is not scheduled in New York State in February. Registration Test Date Test Deadline Late Registration Deadline *September 9, 2017 ACT August 4, 2017 August 5-18, 2017 late fee required *October 7, 2017 *October 28, 2017 *November 4, 2017 December 2, 2017 December 9, 2017 February 10, 2018 SAT & Subject Tests ACT SAT & Subject Tests SAT & Subject Tests ACT September 8, 2017 September 22, 2017 October 5, 2017 November 2, 2017 November 3, 2017 Students with a 504, IEP or Declassification Plan A student who receives testing modifications who wants to use them for the SAT and/or ACT must apply directly to those testing agencies for approval well in advance of the test dates. Please refer to and your school counselor for more specific information. SAT and ACT Registration Students must register online by the deadline date. For SAT registration, go to Visit this website for more information about SAT I & SAT II. Register to take the NCAA Registration NCAA registration forms are available online only at (mail) Sept. 19, 20167; Sept. 27, 2017 (online & phone) Sept. 23- Oct. 6, 2017 late fee required Oct. 17, 2017 (mail); Oct. 25, 2017 (online & phone) (mail) Nov. 14, 2017; (online & phone) Nov. 21, 2017 November 4-17, 2017 late fee required ACT January 12, 2018 January 13-19, 2018 late fee required March 10, 2018 SAT only February 9, 2018 (mail) Feb. 20, 2018; (online & phone) Feb. 28, 2018 April 14, 2018 ACT March 9, 2018 March 10-23, 2018 late fee required *May 5, 2018 SAT & Subject (mail) Apr. 17, 2018; (online & phone) Apr. April 6, 2018 Tests 25, 2018 *June 2, 2018 SAT & Subject (mail) May 15, 2018; (online & phone); May May 3, 2018 Tests 23, 2018 *June 9, 2018 ACT May 4, 2018 May 5-18, 2018 late fee required College Application Fees Fax charge $2 fee per fax 21

22 MEDICAL SERVICES School health services in BCSD are provided by professional registered nurses. Our school nurses have a multifaceted role within the school setting, one that supports the physical, mental, emotional, and social health of students and their success in the learning process. Our nurses provide a variety of school health services, functions and programs. These services are based upon current evidence, best practices, and professional school nursing standards. An Emergency Health Information Form is sent home to parents in late August/early September. Parents are required to provide emergency contact information, which may include friends or relatives to be called in case of illness or injury if the parents cannot be reached. This form gives the school written permission to call the emergency contact(s) listed, as necessary. It is important to inform the school in writing of changes to contact information. If you cannot be contacted, the school may not release your child to anyone other than the person or persons listed in case of emergency. Parents are also required to provide updated health information. This includes allergies, medications, (both prescription and over the counter medications), and recent health information. This health information is kept on file by the nurses only. Medication Policy New York State Education Department Guidelines state that ALL medications, including over the counter medications, given at school, require the following: 1. Written order from your child s physician stating the name of the medication, dosage, frequency and time of administration; 2. Written statement from the parent or guardian requesting administration of the medication in school; and 3. Delivery of the medication to the health office by parent or guardian in a properly labeled original / pharmacy container. At the secondary level, emergency medications such as epi pens and inhalers can be carried by those students who are determined to be self directed with written orders from the student s medical provider. BCSD medication forms can be found on the district website, Physical Exam Requirement A physical exam is required for all children entering this school system for the first time and for all children entering grades K, 2, 4, 7 and 10. Proof of this exam must be a signed physician s physical appraisal form. [A physical exam performed within the 12 months prior to the start of the school year is acceptable.] If such an examination is not provided, the school is required by law to provide the exam at the school s expense. We prefer that parents make appointments to have the family doctor complete the physical as he/she will perform a more complete physical exam and will give the required immunizations. BCSD physical appraisal forms can be found on the district website, Body Mass Index As part of a required school health examination, a student is weighed and his/her height is measured. These numbers are used to figure out the student s body mass index or BMI. The BMI helps the doctor or nurse know if the student s weight is in a healthy range or is too high or too low. New York State Education Law requires that BMI and weight status group be included as part of the student s school health examination. Each year, a sample of school districts are selected to take part in a survey by the New York State Department of Health (DOH). The Bethlehem Central School District has not been selected to submit its information to DOH in , however it Is possible it will be required to do so in When surveyed, only summary information is sent. No names or information about individual students are sent. However, you may choose to have your child s information excluded from this survey report. If you would like to do so, download the opt out form from our website and return it completed to the school. BCSD Childhood Obesity Reporting Opt Out form can be found on the district website, 22