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This handbook has been prepared and presented to you, the students of the Punxsutawney Area High School, to serve as a guide to help students and parents better understand the school. If followed, the rules and regulations in this handbook will make your school life more profitable and enjoyable.

It is the duty of all students to uphold the high standards of their school and to strive constantly to make their school even better. Students can do this only if they know the basic requirements, the accepted practices, and the rules of conduct that they must maintain for the improvement of our school.

This handbook is your source of information, suggestions, and tips to enable you to work with the Student Government, the faculty, and administration to create progress and harmony in our school.

Mr. Jeffrey Long – Principal Mr. Paul Hetrick – Assistant Principal

Administrative Revisions 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016

1 PUNXSUTAWNEY AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT

DISTRICT MISSION STATEMENT The mission of the Punxsutawney Area School District is to prepare students for the future by enabling them to acquire knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to become productive and responsible citizens.

DISTRICT VISION STATEMENT Since 1823 when the first Punxsutawney school was built, the education of students has been of prime importance. The future success of students in the Punxsutawney Area School District will require committed teachers, involved parents, a supportive community, and strong academic programs and activities that will enrich our students’ lives. Our students will continue to be lifelong learners who will be able to adapt to an ever-changing and increasingly diverse world.

DISTRICT SHARED VALUES We believe:  A nurturing, stimulating and safe environment promotes learning.  Learning is an interactive process.  Technology enhances learning.  Respectful, positive, and collaborative relationships are essential for learning.  Student growth is dependent upon the quality of instruction provided by the teacher.  Student effort, parent support, and high expectations promote student achievement.  Cooperation and communication between school, student, parent, and community are vital for a successful school district.  All students can learn.

INTRODUCTION The Board of Directors of the Punxsutawney Area School District recognizes that in order to promote achievement of our local mission statement and the goals of public education, it is necessary to establish appropriate policies, guidelines and programs that assure a safe, orderly and positive learning environment. The Board of Directors also acknowledges that it requires the support and cooperation of the entire community to maintain an educational program that enables each student to reach his full potential. Therefore, the development of this Parent Student Handbook for the Punxsutawney Area

2 High School reflects the input, insights, and expertise of students, parents, administrators, teachers, counselors, social agencies, and legal authorities all working cooperatively to establish clear, consistent, fair, challenging and positive programs for our schools.

SCHOOL AUTHORITY TO ACT Section 1317 Pennsylvania School Code: Authority of teachers, vice principals and principals over pupils (In Loco Parentis provision). Every teacher, vice principal and principal in the public schools shall have the right to exercise the same authority as to conduct and behavior over the pupils attending his school during the time they are in attendance, including the time required in going to and from their homes, as their parents, guardians, or persons in parental relation to such pupils may exercise over them.

It is the policy of the Punxsutawney Area High School to consider discipline as part of the general school morale.

ANY ITEM IN THIS HANDBOOK THAT IS NOT MENTIONED OR THAT IS NOT CLEAR WILL BE COVERED BY AN ADMINISTRATIVE DECISION.

RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES Students, parents, administrators, teachers, and all others involved in the educational process have rights that are documented by the Constitution of the United States, federal, state and local laws or regulations. The rights of individuals do not stop upon entry through the school doors. Among these rights is the administration of appropriate due process procedures and requirements.

It is also noted that a separate and more extensive set of rights and procedural safeguards are in effect for exceptional/disabled students. The regulations set forth in this handbook may not supplant, nor be contrary to these rights.

Along with certain rights, individuals involved in the educational process have certain responsibilities. The following represents the intent of creating a mutual understanding of these responsibilities so that everyone recognizes and acknowledges the rights and responsibilities of others.

3 STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES Student responsibilities are based on the premise that no student has the right to interfere with the education of his/her fellow students.

Students must share the responsibility with school staff of developing a climate within the school that is conducive to wholesome learning and living, and to respect the rights of administrators, teachers and other school staff, as well as their fellow students.

In addition, students have the responsibility to:  Be aware of all guidelines for student behavior and conduct themselves in accordance with them.  Be able to express their ideas and opinions in a respectful manner so as not to offend or slander others.  Be willing to volunteer information in matters relating to the health, safety and welfare of the school community and the protection of school property.  Dress and groom so as to meet the fair standards of health, safety and the educational process.  Assume that until a guideline is waived, altered or repealed, it is in full effect.  Assist the school staff in operating a safe school for all students enrolled therein.  Be aware of and comply with state and local laws.  Exercise proper care when using public facilities and equipment.  Attend school daily except when excused, as well as be on time to school, classes, school meetings, activities and events.  Make all necessary arrangements for making up work when legally absent/tardy from school.  Pursue and attempt to complete the courses of study to acceptable standards prescribed by the state and local school authorities.  Avoid inaccuracies in student newspapers or publications as well as indecent or obscene language. Strive for mutually respectful relations with peers, teachers, administrators and other school staff.  Know and respect the rights of teachers, administrators, other school staff members and other students.  Take advantage of the academic opportunities offered at school and make a conscientious effort in classroom work.

4  Be timely in returning office documents to school. PARENT/GUARDIAN RESPONSIBILITIES Parents/guardians must be the first to foster self-discipline within the child at home. The school can provide the setting for this training to be carried further, while enabling all students to have the right to pursue their own educational needs without unnecessary disruptions by others. A cooperative relationship between home and school is essential to each student’s successful development and achievement.

Parents/guardians are encouraged to:  Exemplify an enthusiastic and supportive attitude toward school and education.  Build a good working relationship between themselves and school personnel.  Teach their child self-respect, self-control, respect for the law, respect for others and other’s property and accountability for his/her actions.  Insist on prompt and regular attendance.  Encourage their child to take pride in his/her appearance.  Insist that their child promptly bring home communications from school.  Cooperate with the school in jointly resolving any school related problem.  Set realistic standards of behavior for their child and be firm, fair and consistent in applying them.  Help their child learn to deal effectively with negative peer pressure.  Provide a place conducive for study and completion of homework assignments.  Help the child to develop an interest in learning and exploring a variety of fields of knowledge.  Be aware of the school’s attendance, discipline and other such policies and the consequences of non-compliance.  Be sure the child is free of communicable disease and is in as good health as possible in order to ensure effective classroom performance.  Become acquainted with the school staff, curriculum and activities.  Be aware that they are responsible for any financial obligations incurred by their child in school.

5 TEACHER RESPONSIBILITIES Generally, it is the teacher’s responsibility to handle discipline problems occurring in the classroom, which are of a common or minor nature. For more serious problems, it is the teacher’s responsibility to inform the appropriate administrator of the details of the case. While in the classroom, every teacher knows that he/she works every day with the nation’s most precious commodity-the future generation.

Teachers will:  Promote a climate of mutual respect and dignity, which will strengthen the student’s positive self-image.  Utilize classroom routines, which contribute to the total instructional program and to the student’s development of civic responsibility.  Provide interesting and stimulating classroom climate that will prevent most discipline problems from developing.  Reflect a personal enthusiasm for teaching and learning as well as a genuine concern for the individual student.  Guide learning activities so students learn to think and reason, to assume responsibility for their actions and to respect the rights of others.  Demonstrate by word and personal example, respect for law and order as well as self-discipline.  Seek to develop close, cooperative relationships with parent/guardians for the educational benefit of the student.  Distinguish between minor student misconduct best handled by the teacher and major or chronic student misconduct requiring the assistance of a principal.  Help students cope with negative peer pressure.  Be sensitive to changing behavior patterns.  Enable students to discuss problems with them.  Strive for mutually respectful relationships with students.  Assist students and administrators in developing a climate in the school that is conducive to wholesome learning and living.  Report to the principal any student who may jeopardize their own safety, the safety of other students, the safety of a teacher, or who seriously interferes with the instructional program of the classroom.

6  Serve as a surrogate parent/guardian in matters of behavior and discipline in accordance with Pennsylvania School Law.  Explain the discipline code to students in their classes.  Be fair, firm and consistent in enforcing guidelines in the classroom, in the hallways, in the restrooms, on school transportation, on the school campus and at all school sponsored activities.

ADMINISTRATOR RESPONSIBILITIES As the educational leaders of the school, the administrators set the learning and disciplinary climate for the school, not only for the students but also for staff as well.

Administrators will:  Promote a climate of mutual respect and dignity, which will strengthen the student’s positive self-image.  Reflect a personal enthusiasm for teaching and learning as well as a genuine concern for the individual student.  Seek to develop a sound and healthful atmosphere of mutual respect in the school.  Develop procedures, which reduce the likelihood of student misconduct.  Provide the opportunity for students and staff to approach the administrator directly for redress of grievances.  Assist staff members to resolve problems, which may occur.  Maintain ongoing communication with the faculty about the status of discipline within the school.  Seek to develop close, cooperative relationships with parents for the educational benefit of the student.  Utilize all appropriate auxiliary staff and community agencies to help parents and students identify problems and seek solutions.  Be fair, firm and consistent in all decisions affecting students, parents and staff.  Demonstrate, by word and personal example, respect for law and order, self-discipline, and a genuine concern for all persons under his/her authority.  Establish necessary building security.  Assume responsibility for the dissemination and enforcement of school guidelines and insure that all discipline cases are resolved promptly.

7  Insure fairness, reasonableness and consistency. STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT We the members of the student body of the Punxsutawney Area High School desire to make the most of our opportunities in school. Realizing that education is necessary for the greater responsibilities of our lives and for the true appreciation and enjoyment of leisure, we will endeavor to make our stay in high school worthwhile. In order that we may realize all the advantages of a true education and of good citizenship, we will strive to be guided by the following code of conduct:

A. APPEARANCE The Student Government of the Punxsutawney Area High School recognizes the importance of all students being neat and clean at all times. In view of the changing fashions and hairstyles, they submitted the following code of dress and appearance for all students of the Punxsutawney Area High School, which was approved by the Punxsutawney Area School Board.

The responsibility for the appearance of the students of the Punxsutawney Area School District rests with the parents and the students themselves. They have the obligation to determine that student’s dress is not destructive to school property, complies with all safety and health codes/rules, and does not interfere with or lend itself to causing a distraction from the normal functioning of the educational process. Students of the Punxsutawney District must be clean, neat, modestly and appropriately dressed so as not to disrupt the educational process.

Students should avoid all clothing, hairstyles, and makeup so extreme that it calls undue attention to the wearer. All clothing must be neat and clean, of appropriate size and length and worn as designed. This includes, but is not limited to the example of pants; slacks and shorts which must be properly sized to match the student’s waist and the waistline should be worn at the waist. Additionally, pants and slacks shall be worn so as not to extend over the heel of the shoe.

Clothing that has large holes regardless of leggings or shorts worn underneath may not be worn.

Hats, bandanas, and other head coverings are not permitted to be worn during the school day. Exceptions for religious reasons must be approved by the administration.

8 No student will attend any school function or any sporting event in or out of school with his/her face painted. However, wearing small decals or designs on the face may be allowed for outdoor events. Final decisions on the permissibility of such designs lie in the power of the administration.

Students shall not wear clothing, jewelry, or accessories that would create unsafe conditions to the wearer or other students.

In classes or class activities where student health and safety are a concern, students may be required to wear hair restraints, protective clothing, protective footwear, or protective eye wear.

Skirt or dress length is dictated to a large extent by fashion; however, skirts must be fingertip length and undergarments should not be exposed.

Shorts that are fingertip length may be worn all year long.

Halters and tank tops may be worn but must have straps of at least 1.5 inches in width. Strapless shirts, as well as any clothing that exposes under garments, a bare midriff, torso, or cleavage, or is so revealing that it would call undue attention to the wearer may not be worn.

Tops of fingertip length need to be worn over form fitting bottoms (Ex. shorts, pants, skirts, leggings).

Footwear must be worn at all times. Cleats on shoes and boots, which cause damage to floors and danger to the students' safety, must be avoided.

No student will be permitted to wear any clothing, which has writing or pictures that are sexually suggestive, vulgar, profane, obscene, or advertise drugs, alcohol, or tobacco or depict violence or display insignias related to hate groups.

Consistent with current weapons policy there shall be no chains worn, other than those designed as jewelry. Jewelry will be considered a chain with diameter less than one eighth of an inch.

In case of doubt in any matter pertaining to these guidelines, dress, or appearance, the administration will make the final decision.

9 B. BOOKS, COMPUTERS, ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT, AND SCHOOL PROPERTY Textbooks, computers, cameras, and other electronic equipment are purchased for the use of pupils at public expense. Bar security codes are utilized by the district and used for identification, registration, and security purposes. If restitution for lost, stolen, or damaged materials is not supplied at the end of the semester, the student may lose the privilege of taking the one-to-one laptop home. Any student who marks or otherwise damages school property must pay for its repair or replacement. Desks, chairs, pencil sharpeners, etc., should be handled with care. Walls and floors should be kept clean and care should be taken of all working materials. Careless use of furniture and equipment results in a loss to the taxpayer who provides funds for them. Prosecution through the civil and/ or criminal court system may occur if restitution is not provided.

C. CLASSROOM CONDUCT Students should be in their classroom seats when the bell rings to start class. Since the classroom is a place to work, there should be no loud talking or unnecessary noise. Walls and desks must not be marked in any manner. The teacher will do any adjustment necessary to the windows or shades. This is not the pupil's responsibility. Floors should be kept clean. When the class is over, all waste paper should be placed in the basket. The room ought to be left in as good order as when entered. Pupils should wait for the teacher's signal for dismissal; rushing from the room is rude and undignified.

D. SCHOOL CONDUCT - Students must: 1. Walk at all times and keep to the right. 2. Speak in a normal tone of voice. 3. Not hold hands or show undue affection for each other. 4. Not walk on or over the auditorium seats. 5. Be courteous and attentive to the program and students around them from the beginning to the end. 6. Pupils must observe the proper standards of cleanliness and courtesy. Since the cafeteria serves as a dining room, the cafeteria floor should be free from debris and chairs should be pushed in when students exit the cafeteria. 7. Students must have advanced permission from the office to use a cell phone in school. Cell phone usage of any kind is prohibited from 8:05 AM until 3:16 PM. This includes, but is not limited to camera/picture taking

10 features and text messaging. Cell phones may be used in school between arrival and the 8:05 AM late bell, but must remain turned off during school hours. 8. Not have beepers, pagers, or electronic communication devices of any kind unless approved for educational purposes. Students must also not use MP3 players for communications, such as text or skype. 9. Not have walkmans, electronic games, portable stereos, MP3 players, iPods, or CD players unless approved for educational purposes. Students are permitted to utilize their school-issued laptop for music during study hall, activity period, and lunch as long as headphones are used and other students are not distracted. Computer games are permitted only at lunch during the school day unless approved for educational purposes. Headphones are not permitted in the hallway. 10. Not possess or use a laser pointer of any kind. 11. Remain in their assigned area of the building according to their daily schedule or school staff approved designation. 12. Not have any type of open container including screw top bottles or squeeze bottles. Containers brought for lunch must be sealed until such time as they are taken to the cafeteria for lunch. Clear plastic bottles containing water may be carried throughout the school day. 13. Not have tobacco products on school property. This includes tobacco stored in a student’s vehicle, as well as electronic cigarettes (e-cigs) and the droplets associated with their use. (PA Act 145 States: Students are not to possess or use tobacco of any kind in a school building, on a school bus or on a school property. Possession and use are considered summary offenses. If found guilty of a summary offense, the student will be responsible to pay up to a $50.00 fine plus court costs or serve in an adjudication alternative program.) 14. Keep book bags, gym bags, large tote bags and backpacks in their locker during the school day. Specifically, students may not carry these items to and from classes with the exception of gym bags to and from physical education classes. Approved computer cases will be permitted.

E. VISITING STUDENTS FROM OTHER SCHOOLS A PAHS student is not permitted to bring a visitor to school.

F. WITHHOLDING REPORT CARDS FOR UNPAID DEBTS The administration reserves the right to withhold any student’s report card or diploma if the student has an unpaid debt with the school. A report card may

11 also be withheld if the student has lost school district property, for example, a textbook. The student may also lose their laptop take-home privilege. ANNOUNCEMENTS Opening exercises and key operational announcements will be made over the public address system at 8:05 AM and at 2:30 PM everyday. Video announcements regarding school and student activities and news will be broadcast at 10:20AM everyday. It is imperative that each student listen closely to these announcements since they bring notices of changes during the day, coming events and lost or found items. Any student or teacher desiring to have an announcement read in the morning should leave the announcement at the Principal’s office the DAY BEFORE it is to be made. Announcements to be made in the afternoon are to be turned in to the office by noon of the same afternoon. Announcements must be written on the proper forms, which can be found on the office counter or emailed to Patti Fallara. The appropriate teacher or advisor must sign all announcement forms.

HOMEROOM GUIDELINES Students report to their homeroom during activity period and other designated times. The homeroom and activity period provides a time to study and a time to participate in clubs and other school activities. Students not participating in activities are to have schoolwork to complete during activity period. Homeroom will be operated as a study hall according to the guidelines on page 14. The homeroom teacher acts as an advisor and will be able to help you in many areas when called upon to do so. Students on detention list; restricted movement, and academic support are required to remain in homeroom unless a green slip is signed by a principal.

STUDY HALL GUIDELINES A study period is for work. Students will arrive on time and bring with them all materials that they will need, such as textbooks, paper and pencils. Students will not be excused to get books, pencils, etc., from their lockers. The most benefit is obtained from a study hall that is quiet. Students may not study in groups nor may they talk without permission from the teacher or monitor in charge. Students who consistently arrive without work or who are noisy or unruly, will be sent to the Principal's office. Food is not permitted. Comic books and pornographic reading material have no place in school. The teacher or monitor in charge will confiscate any such books. Student laptops will be monitored during study halls by use of visual and electronic means. While completing schoolwork, students are permitted to listen to music

12 during study hall with their laptops as long as headphones are used and other students are not distracted. Playing games is not permitted during the school day unless approved for educational purposes.

Students in study halls who wish to go to the library may sign out on a library sign-out sheet and should go directly to the library as a group. The teacher or monitor will inform all students of the route which they should take when going to the library. Students going to the library may not go to their lockers or elsewhere when going to the library. Students going to the library should refrain from loud talking or other unnecessary noise so as not to interrupt classes in session. Violators will have their library privileges revoked.

21st CENTURY LEARNING INITIATIVE PAHS is very proud of this program. It provides students and their families a valuable tool that will give them access to a variety of positive resources available in our technology- driven society. This provides students with a mobile learning tool that they can access at any time while also sharing the technology with the members of their household. However, with this technology students must be held to a high standard of personal responsibility. Students are prohibited from:

1. Playing games during the school day (lunch period excluded) unless approved for educational purposes. Students who violate will receive administrative detention with repeated violations receiving suspension. 2. Neglecting to bring the computer to class with the battery charged. Students who violate will receive administrative detention with repeated violations receiving suspension. 3. Social networking during the school day. (Example: Messenger, Skype, Facebook, etc) Students who violate will receive administrative detention with repeated violations receiving suspension. 4. Having inappropriate social networking conversations outside of school. Students who violate will receive administrative detention with repeated violations receiving suspension. 5. Cyber bullying or using the computer as a means to harass another person. Students who violate will receive administrative detention with repeated violations receiving suspension.

13 6. Distributing their password to another person or have access to another person’s password. Students who violate could be suspended with the possibility of expulsion. 7. Allowing another student to use the computer. Students who violate will receive administrative detention with repeated violations receiving suspension. 8. Having any form of pornography on the computer whatsoever. This includes but not limited to the files, history, or server account. Students who violate could be suspended with the possibility of expulsion. 9. Having any form of profanity or other inappropriate activity on the computer. Students who violate will receive administrative detention with repeated violations receiving suspension. 10. Intentionally damaging or mistreating the laptop. Students who violate may receive administrative detention or suspension. Also student will be financially responsible for the cost of repair or replacement. 11. Accidentally damaging laptop. Students may be held financially responsible. 12. Having any program that provides access to illegally download movies, games, pictures, or songs. (For example Limewire) Students who violate will receive administrative detention with repeated violations receiving suspension. 13. Clearing the history of the computer or setting the history to private. Students who violate will receive administrative detention with repeated violations receiving suspension. 14. Using the technology for commercial activities. (Including, but not limited to activities requiring the exchange of money/credit card information, charging the school fees, purchases or sales of any kind, solicitations/donations, advertising, and/or political lobbying) Students who violate could be suspended with the possibility of expulsion. 15. Attempting to circumvent the district’s internet content filtering system by proxy or other means. Students who violate will receive administrative detention with repeated violations receiving suspension. 16. Installing any software that is not part of the district’s approved software image. Students who violate could be suspended with the possibility of expulsion.

14 17. Attempting to gain unauthorized access to the network. Students who violate could be suspended with the possibility of expulsion. 18. Using the laptop as a means to plagiarize or cheat on school assignments. Students who violate this will be issued an official warning with repeated violations receiving suspension. They will also receive an academic consequence to be issued by the teacher.

Students are to adhere to all policies and practices as dictated in the 21st Century manual and the Acceptable Use of Technology and Equipment Loan Agreement. The administration reserves the right to withhold the one-to-one privilege from any student who violates any of the stipulations set forth by this program.

HALL LOCKERS The homeroom teacher will assign each student a hall locker. All students are expected to keep their books, coats, and other belongings in their ASSIGNED locker. Students are not to take their coats with them to the last period class or study hall. The school assumes no responsibility for the safe- keeping of the contents of the locker. Students are not permitted to go to their lockers during class periods without permission from a teacher, a monitor or the office. Students are not permitted in another student’s locker for any reason unless they have permission from the Principal or Assistant Principal.

Valuables should not be left in lockers. Students may leave valuables in the office for safe keeping and pick them up after school. NEVER leave money in your coat pockets, locker or any other insecure area.

Locker rooms are not monitored by video camera. Students should store valuables in the locker room only in a locked locker. Gym locks are available for purchase in the office. Thefts occurring in locker rooms are typically not solved. Use a gym lock to avoid theft of your property.

It is to be remembered that the lockers are the property of the School District. School authorities or those designated by school authorities may search a student's locker and any material seized may be used as evidence. Prior to a locker search, the student may be notified and given an opportunity to be present. However, where school authorities have a reasonable suspicion that the locker contains materials that pose a threat to the health, welfare and safety of students in the school, student lockers may be searched without prior warning.

15 16 ATTENDANCE Regular attendance is a major factor in success at school. In job recommendations, the most frequent question asked by prospective employers is, "What was the student's attendance record?" Irregular attendance often is the first indication of loss of interest in school or of a personal problem.

In case of absences and tardiness to school, the student must present an excuse signed by the parent or guardian to their first period teacher IMMEDIATELY UPON RETURNING TO SCHOOL. If a student fails to bring an excuse within three days upon returning to school, the attendance monitor will report the student to the office and the absence or tardy could be regarded as unexcused and consequences could be issued. 1. When a student has an early excusal form (“Appointment Excuse” form), he should take the form to the office before first period. 2. If a student has any other excuses for absence or tardy, he should take the excuse directly to his first period teacher. All excuses will be sent by the first period teacher to the attendance monitor. The attendance monitor will accept the excuse or in case of questionable excuses refer the excuse to the office or nurse for further action. 3. Any student whose absenteeism exceeds TEN DAYS or TEN PERCENT of the number of school days that have occurred thus far will be reported to the Principal or Assistant Principal. The Principal or Assistant Principal may then request that the student, and the student's parents, attend a conference for the purpose of determining the causes for the excessive absenteeism or may place the student on doctor’s excuse status. Once a student is on doctor’s excuse status, an official PAHS Doctor Excuse Form must be provided after any absence from school. This must include the dates of absences and doctor’s signature. If this is not provided within 3 days of absence, the absence will be considered illegal/unexcused and consequences may be issued.

EXCUSED AND UNEXCUSED ABSENCES State law requires that all students be in school 180 days each year. The local School Board sets the calendar for these days. Absences from these 180 days fall into three categories: Excused Absences, Unexcused Absences (17 and older) and Illegal (16 and under). 1. An excused absence may be for: a. Illness b. Quarantine

17 c. Death in the immediate family d. Impassable roads e. An emergency permit f. Inclement weather g. Exceptionally urgent reasons (the term "URGENT REASONS" does not include working at home. If there is a question in this area, refer to the office for ruling) 2. Unexcused absences may be for: a. Absence through parental neglect b. Illegally employed c. Truancy d. Any other reason not covered in the prior list of excused absences.

It is an established policy of this school that attendance in our school is a privilege as well as a right. Students who continually refuse to abide by the school regulations will be suspended or expelled. The school administration is charged with seeing that students attend school the required number of days unless they have an excused absence. Pupils whose absences or tardiness are deemed unexcused or illegal may NOT be permitted to make up work for credit. Pupils should however, make up the work just the same since that work will be required for report periods and final exams. If a student did not have work which was graded for credit on the day of the unexcused absence, the teacher reserves the right to deduct 1/45 of the student’s grade per unexcused day at the end of the nine week period.

Our policy in the Punxsutawney Area Schools is that if a student misses school with an unexcused/illegal absence, he or she will make up that same amount of time in detention hall. This policy has been set by the school administration and has been approved by the local School Board.

Once a student has received three or more illegal absences during a school year they will receive a first notice of illegal absences. This notice will be in effect until the student’s seventeenth birthday. Any future illegal absences may result in action being taken consistent with Pennsylvania compulsory attendance law and filed through the district magistrate’s office.

If the office is PREVIOUSLY NOTIFIED that the student will be out of school with an illegal/unexcused absence, the student may make up the work

18 missed and detention hall will be waived if approval is granted by the administration. If approval is denied, the regulation stated above will be enforced.

EXCUSALS FROM SCHOOL A. DENTAL AND MEDICAL APPOINTMENTS Students who wish to leave the school for dental or medical appointments are required to bring a note from the parent and an appointment card from the doctor and give them to their first period teacher the day of the appointment. Only in cases of emergency should a student ask to be excused from class; if possible, the appointments should be made during study periods. An excusal form is given to the student and the doctor fills in the time and signs it. This form must be returned to the office upon the student's return to school, or the absence from school will be considered UNEXCUSED.

B. SENIOR EXCUSAL FOR INTERVIEWS When seniors have a written invitation or appointment to go for a job interview, college admission, nurses training, trade or technical school as well as other post high school plans, they may be excused for a maximum of two days during their senior year. The senior is to obtain a permission slip from the guidance office and have this completed BEFORE the day he is to be excused. For early morning appointments, the request from the parent should be brought the day prior to the appointment. The purpose is to aid seniors in getting into post high school plans that will best meet their needs.

C. EDUCATIONAL TRIP- NOT SCHOOL SPONSORED Students can be excused for designated trips provided a request form is completed a WEEK IN ADVANCE of the trip. The request must include destination, date of departure and return, and a brief statement explaining the trip or tour and its educational benefits to the student. The student must be under the direction and supervision of the parent or an adult person acceptable to the parent. The request is given to the principal and then sent to the Superintendent for his approval or disapproval. Parents will be notified of disapproval by letter from the administration. No excuses for trips will be issued during the final two weeks of the school term. Students will be excused for a maximum of ten (10) school days per academic year.

D. ADDITIONAL REGULATIONS 1. Any pupil wishing to be excused during school hours must have his excuse approved in the Principal's office. A pupil who becomes ill during the

19 school day and wishes to go home must first report to the Principal’s Office. They must be evaluated by the nurse. If the nurse determines that the student is too ill to remain in school, the student will return to the office and sign out of school. As a reminder, once a student arrives on campus he or she is not permitted to leave without permission from the office, regardless of whether the student has entered the building or not. 2. Students are not permitted to go home during the day without permission of the Principal, Assistant Principal, or School Nurse. 3. Under NO circumstances should a student call home and ask his parents to come and take him home. When necessary such calls should be made by the School Nurse or office personnel. 4. Any student not in school by 12:00 (noon) WILL NOT BE PERMITTED to participate in any school activity that day. This rule does not apply to those students who receive pre-approval from the school office for the reasons stated above, or other reasons as determined by the administration.

MAKING UP WORK When a student is absent from a class or classes, it is his responsibility to see each teacher of the class he missed and make the necessary arrangements for completing the work. Students should see teachers as soon as they return to school from their absence. This should be done before/after school, before/after class period, or during activity period the day they return. Green slips are available from teachers before 8:05 AM each morning. In general, students will have 5 days to complete make-up work upon returning to school. Given circumstances, length of absence, student workload or other issues, teachers may extend this time period. Students who miss one day prior to an advertised test or assignment may be expected to complete the task the day they return. This will be a judgment call on the part of the teacher. A student who is suspended from school, either in or out, will have the same number of days to make up their schoolwork as the number of days of suspension. For example: if a student has a three-day in-school suspension, they will have three days to make up their school work. All schoolwork should be completed and made up.

Incomplete grades will be given on a report card only when work is missed due to absence from school. All work must be made up within time limits established by the teacher and/or administrator. When a student fails to make up this work, a failing grade will result.

20 TARDINESS 1. A student is tardy if he or she is not in his/her seat when the tardy bell rings at the beginning of a class period. Classroom teachers and study hall monitors will record student tardiness on a late slip list. Classroom teachers may assign a teacher detention anytime a student is late to their class or refer three accumulated lates to the office for disciplinary action. Completed teacher assigned detentions will not be included in an office referral for accumulated lates. a. 1st Office Referral – May Result in Detention b. 2nd Office Referral – May Result in Detention c. 3rd Office Referral and Any Office Referrals that Follow – May Result in Suspension 2. A student is tardy to school if he or she is not in his/her seat when the late bell rings to start first period or arrives to school prior to 10:00AM. These students will report to the office to the late slip monitor to be admitted to school then sent to class. Tardy to school guidelines are the same as tardy to class. Students may also be issued academic consequences for unexcused tardiness that results in missing class time. 3. Any student who arrives at school after 10:00 a.m. will be considered a ½ day absent. Students arriving after 1:00 p.m. will be considered absent for a full day. Students leaving school prior to 1:00 p.m. and not returning will be considered absent ½ day. Students released from school for less than two hours will not be considered absent. All students must present a parent excuse to their first period teacher for absences or tardiness. 4. Any student who is late due to no fault of their own such as a late bus, an accident, a train or other extenuating circumstances must report to principal’s office and be issued a late slip. A principal will determine whether or not the student was at fault for the tardiness. If the student is not at fault, the late slip will be excused from consequence. Students will then be sent to homeroom, class, or study hall in which they belong. At times the office will excuse students who are late via the P.A. System. 5. Due to certain circumstances the Principal’s office will instruct teachers and monitors to hold attendance and excuse students who are late. This will be announced on the PA system and students will report to 1st period class. 6. Students reporting to school prior to 10:00AM with a valid doctor’s excuse will not be considered tardy and will be granted release time. Release time will be granted for medical appointments and other appointments approved by the principal if the student is absent less than two hours.

CRISIS MANAGEMENT

21 The administration, faculty and staff have devised and implemented a crisis management plan at Punxsutawney High School. In the event of a crisis situation i.e. Severe Weather, Bomb Threat, etc… parents are encouraged to wait patiently for instructions through the media. Every precaution will be taken to ensure the safety of the students at the high school level. A high volume of phone calls and/or traffic to the high school could hinder emergency efforts. Your cooperation is appreciated.

EARLY DISMISSAL If it is necessary for a student to leave school early, the student must bring a written request from a parent or guardian. The excuse must be given to the homeroom teacher by 8:05 AM and it will be sent to the office. If approved you will receive an excusal slip stating the time you are to be excused. Before leaving school students should report to the office to sign out before leaving the building.

WEAPONS POLICY Any loaded or unloaded firearm or weapon possessed on or about a person while in attendance at school, while on school property or in a vehicle, while engaged in or at a school sponsored activity or events, while on, entering or leaving a school bus, or while otherwise subject to the jurisdiction of the school district is subject to seizure or forfeiture. Possession of a weapon on school property is a criminal offense. Incidents of students possessing firearms or weapons will be reported to the student's parents and will be reported to the police. Appropriate disciplinary and/or legal action will be taken against students who possess weapons and with students who assist possession in any way. Any violation of this weapon policy may result in suspension or expulsion. Act 26 of 1995, Pennsylvania's Safe Schools Act requires public schools to report to the Office of Safe Schools all incidents involving acts of violence, possession of a weapon, or the possession, use or sale of a controlled substance, alcohol or tobacco by any person on school property; at school- sponsored events; and on school transportation to and from school. It also requires schools to maintain updated summary reports of all incidents of violence; incidents involving possession of a weapon; and convictions or adjudications of delinquency for acts committed on school property. A statistical summary of these records shall be maintained and made accessible to the public for examination during regular business hours by public and nonpublic schools.

22 The Act also requires school administrators to report the discovery of any weapon to local law-enforcement officials. Some definitions used in this Act are: 1. "Weapons" shall include, but not be limited to, any knife, cutting instrument, cutting tool, nunchaku, firearm, shotgun, rifle, replica weapon, and any other tool, instrument or implement capable of inflicting serious bodily injury. School administrators may recommend to the Board of School Directors modifications of the expulsion requirement for a student on a case-by-case basis. 2. “Office” shall mean the Office of Safe Schools. 3. “School Property” shall mean any public school grounds, any school sponsored activity or any conveyance providing transportation to a school entity or school sponsored activity. Additional Information about the Center can be obtained by calling (717) 763-1661, or by visiting the Center’s web site at www.center- school.org/csshome.htm or www.safeschools.state.pa.us.

A student may also be suspended or expelled when he is involved in any conduct that violates the law, including but not limited to violating any provision of the Crimes Code, the Juvenile Code, any local ordinance, etc., or when he is engaged in any behavior that causes any unsafe condition, or that infringes upon the rights of others.

FREEDOM FROM DISRUPTION AND DANGER, ETHNIC INTIMIDATION, AND BULLYING Any person guilty of physically assaulting or attempting to assault any other person on school property shall be reported immediately to the responsible Principal. The Principal shall then take such action as may be necessary within the guidelines established by the School District to assure the safety of all persons and their right to freedom from disruption and dangers. In addition, if an employee or official of the District is assaulted or his property is vandalized due to action that he/she has taken, the District will, in addition to taking appropriate disciplinary action, initiate civil action as well.

Ethnic intimidation is illegal in the State of Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania considers certain crimes to be more serious when motivated by hatred toward the race, color, religion or national origin of another individual or group of individuals. When certain designated underlying offenses are committed and

23 it can be shown that a motive for such crimes was hatred of the race, color, religion, or national origin of the victim, the offense of ethnic intimidation can also be charged, subjecting the perpetrator to more severe penalties. In summary, these underlying offenses include, but are not limited to crimes against persons like harassment, terrorist threats, assault and crimes against property like criminal trespass, criminal mischief and arson. Students guilty of ethnic intimidation at school face consequences consistent with the school discipline policy as well as possible consequences with local authorities if the victim chooses to pursue such action.

BULLYING A student is being bullied or victimized when he or she is exposed, repeatedly and over time, to negative actions on the part of one or more other students. It is a negative action when someone intentionally inflicts, or attempts to inflict, injury or discomfort upon another. Bullying can result from several different forms of contact (physical, verbal, nonverbal, sexting, cyber, texting, messages from friends, violation of warnings from school officials, harassment, intimidation, threatening, hazing, attempting to do any form of harm, etc.).

SEXTING Act 198 of 2012 contains provisions and penalties for teens caught transmitting sexually explicit photos of themselves or their peers in a practice known as “sexting”. Under Act 198, a teen who sends photos of himself or view photos commits a summary offense. A teen who knowingly transmits such photos of another minor commits a misdemeanor of the third degree; a teen who takes a photo of another minor in a state of nudity, either with or without that person’s consent, and transmits or distributes that photo with the other’s knowledge or consent with the intention of coercing, intimidating, harassing or causing emotional distress could be charged with a second- degree misdemeanor. The law allows the Commonwealth to confiscate any communication devices used in the violation of this law.

HARASSMENT / CYBER HARASSMENT The term harassment includes but is not limited to slurs, jokes, or other verbal, graphic, or physical conduct relating to an individual’s race, color, religion, ancestry, sex, national origin, age, or handicap/disability. The term cyber harassment is defined as a continuing course of conduct (more than one message or post) by electronic means that includes either of the following: 1) a seriously disparaging statement or opinion about physical characteristics,

24 sexuality, sexual activity, or mental or physical health or condition, 2) a threat to inflict harm. This includes electronic messages sent directly to a victim or published about a victim via social media service.

ETHNIC HARASSMENT includes the use of any derogatory word, phrase or action characterizing a given racial or ethnic group that creates an offensive environment.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT shall consist of unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other inappropriate verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:

Examples of sexual harassment include, but are not limited to, sexual flirtation, advances, touching, or propositions; verbal abuse of a sexual nature; graphic or suggestive comments about an individual’s dress or body; sexually degrading words to describe an individual; jokes, pin-ups, calendars, objects, graffiti, vulgar statements, abusive language, innuendoes, references to sexual activities, overt sexual conduct, or any conduct that has the effect of unreasonably interfering with someone’s ability to work or which creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive learning or working environment.

Students shall report bullying/harassment complaints to their teacher, counselor, nurse, or the building principal.

Students found guilty of bullying/harassment are subject to consequences under the discipline code.

CHEATING Punxsutawney Area High School administration, faculty, staff and students strive to promote and uphold the integrity of our academic programs. Cheating and plagiarism are unacceptable. If a student is involved in a cheating incident, they may receive the following consequences: First Time: Student may receive a zero on the assignment or a 1/45 deduction from the nine- week grading period. Student will also receive an Official Warning. Second Time: Student may receive a zero on the assignment or a 1/45 deduction for the nine-week grading period and/or fail for the nine weeks. Student will also receive a 3-day in school suspension.

25 Third time: Student may receive a zero on the assignment or a 1/45 deduction for the nine-week grading period and/or fail for the year. Student will also receive a 5-day Out of School Suspension. Fourth time: Student may receive a 10-day Out of School Suspension. Student may also face a disciplinary hearing for Expulsion. * In all cases, the teacher is required to call home to discuss the incident and academic consequences. Parents should support the importance of honesty and integrity in the academic environment.

DISCIPLINARY CONSEQUENCES

CONFERENCES, PARENT CONTACTS, COUNSELING Counselors, teachers, and/or principals hold conferences with students to help modify behavior. The staff at Punxsutawney Area High School strives to promote a safe and structured learning environment for all students. When student behavior is unacceptable to our code of ethics or guidelines, we work hard at having the student make a choice to modify his/her behavior to acceptable levels. Generally, the work involves discussing behavior choices and making better choices or self-study activities to assist students in these areas. We encourage parents to become involved and be supportive of this process. We encourage our staff to inform parents of unacceptable behavior through phone calls and/or notices sent home with the students. Parents are encouraged to elicit feedback from staff members through phone calls and notes to the school.

VERBAL AND OFFICIAL WARNINGS Verbal warnings may be issued to students for minor infractions of guidelines or ethics. They are designed to call the student’s attention to behavior that is not acceptable in hopes that the student will make necessary modifications. Official warnings are issued to students when there is a need for documentation on student behavior. Official Warnings are issued to students involved in conflicts, or other potentially dangerous situations that are reported to the office. The purpose of an Official Warning is to assist in maintaining an orderly and safe learning environment, facilitate conflict resolution, and to prevent one or more of the following infractions from occurring: Bullying, Harassment, Intimidation, Threats, Misconduct, Cheating, Attempted Harm of a Student in Any Form, Hazing, or Attempting to Cause Civil Disorder. A student is required to sign an official warning. This signifies that the student has been informed of unacceptable behavior,

26 given direction for future behavior and consequences that will follow continued unacceptable behavior.

CAFETERIA ASSIGNED SEAT Assigned seats in the cafeteria are given to students for unacceptable behavior in the cafeteria or when there exists a conflict among students that can be managed by a different seating arrangement. Detention and/or suspension may also be issued with a cafeteria assigned seat.

RESTRICTED MOVEMENT Restricted movement is assigned to students who are outside of their assigned area or report to an area of the school building without proper consent. Once a student is on restricted movement, he/she must have a pass signed by the Principal or Assistant Principal to be released from homeroom or study hall. Passes are signed for academic purposes only. Passes will not be signed for sports, intramurals, clubs, etc. unless the administration determines it necessary. Detention and/or suspension may also be issued with restricted movement.

LOSS OF PRIVILEGES Students who misbehave or stray from prescribed guidelines may lose various privileges at the high school. The time period for the loss of privileges is an administrative decision. Loss of privileges may include but is not limited to driving to school, attending extra-curricular events, participating in extra curricular events, using school resources and equipment, attending assemblies, seating in the cafeteria and work release.

DETENTION A student may be assigned to detention for reasons including but not limited to the following: 1. Truancy 2. Unexcused absences 3. Excessive tardiness 4. Misconduct (including but not limited to dress code infractions, cell phone violations, disrespect, classroom or hallway disruption, horseplay, computer infractions, etc.) 5. Being in an unassigned area of the school without permission 6. Skipping class 7. Profanity, obscenity, or vulgarity

27 This regulation has been set by the school administration and has been approved by the local School Board. The above reasons for detention will be used whether or not a student walks or rides a school bus. Where a student rides a bus, he will have to provide his own transportation home after detention. The school solicitor has ruled that when a student does something that requires him to make-up time in detention, that student loses his normal privilege of riding the bus. Students riding buses who are assigned to detention will be given one day's notice in order to secure a ride home before starting detention. Students will not be kept in detention nights when weather creates a hazard to their health or safety. The school operates three forms of detention:

TEACHER ASSIGNED DETENTION Teacher assigned detention is held after school from 3:15 PM to 3:45 PM and is assigned by classroom teachers for tardiness or classroom misconduct. The teacher can assign two detentions for each infraction. The teacher will inform the student of the reason for the detention assignment, detention date, and location by giving them the student section of the teacher assigned detention form. Students are expected to show this slip to their parents. The teacher will document and keep in their files the teacher section of the teacher detention assignment form. Teachers assigning a teacher detention will be responsible for supervising students attending the teacher assigned detention. The student will present the slip to the teacher when reporting to the teacher assigned detention and the teacher will sign the slip indicating the student completed the assigned detention. Students should keep these slips as documentation of completed detention.

Teachers can assign detentions for any day that school is in session as long as they give notice of the detention at least one day in advance. Teachers will also attempt to contact the parent when they assign a detention. It is our belief that communication between the teacher and parent is an important step to help remedy behavioral concerns. The attempted contact will be documented on the teacher section of the teacher assigned detention form. Students failing to attend a teacher assigned detention will be referred to the office and can be assigned other consequences.

28 ADMINISTRATOR ASSIGNED AFTERNOON DETENTION Administrator Assigned After School Detention is held Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday after school from 3:20 to 4:05 PM. Students assigned to this detention must attend detention on the assigned dates. Students will be given a notice from the administrator indicating the assigned dates and guidelines for the detention. Students are expected to share this information with their parents. Students failing to attend for any reason can be assigned extra days of detention or be issued a suspension from school. Students should report to detention with school work and follow all behavior guidelines. Misconduct in detention will not be tolerated and will result in additional consequences being assigned. Activities requiring students to reflect on their behavior, modify their behavior and make better choices may be assigned for completion during detention.

ADMINISTRATOR ASSIGNED MORNING DETENTION Administrator Assigned Morning Detention is held Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings from 7:30 to 8:00 AM in a designated classroom. Students assigned to this detention must attend detention on the assigned dates. Students will be given a notice from the administrator indicating the assigned dates and guidelines for the detention. Students are expected to share this information with their parents. Students failing to attend for any reason can be assigned extra days of detention or be issued a suspension from school. Students should report to detention with school work and follow all behavior guidelines. Misconduct in detention will not be tolerated and will result in additional consequences being assigned. Activities requiring students to reflect on their behavior, modify their behavior and make better choices may be assigned for completion during detention.

Parents of students unable to complete an administrator assigned detention can request a day of in-school suspension in lieu of detention and the request may be granted.

LAW ENFORCEMENT The administration has the authority to involve local law enforcement when necessary to control student behavior. Police action will follow according to provisions set forth in the Crimes Code of Pennsylvania, Juvenile Code or any local ordinance.

29 STUDENT ASSISTANCE REFERRAL Student Assistance is a positive consequence designed to assist the student in behavior modification. The Student Assistance Team functions to diagnose problem areas and prescribe interventions to help the student in a positive manner. A description of the Student Assistance Program is on page 51.

INVOLVEMENT OF A SOCIAL AGENCY Involving Children and Youth Services, Juvenile Justice or other local social agencies is a positive consequence designed to assist the student in behavior modification. These agencies work with the student in and out of school and provide direction in a positive manner.

EXCLUSIONS FROM SCHOOL Exclusion from school may take the form of suspension or expulsion:

SUSPENSION Suspensions at Punxsutawney Area High School may be in-school (exclusion from class) or out-of-school (exclusion from school) suspensions and are conducted according to Chapter 12 of Pennsylvania School Code as follows; "SUSPENSION" is exclusion from school for a period of from one to ten consecutive school days. 1. Suspensions may be given by the Principal or person in charge of the public school. 2. No student shall be suspended until the student has been informed of the reasons for the suspension and given an opportunity to respond. Prior notice of the intended suspension need not be given when it is clear that the health, safety or welfare of the school community is threatened. 3. The parents and the Superintendent of the District shall be notified in writing when the student is suspended. 4. When the suspension exceeds three school days, the student and parents shall be given the opportunity for an informal hearing consistent with the requirements set forth on page 33. 5. Suspensions may not be made to run consecutively beyond the ten school day period. 6. Students shall have the responsibility to make up exams and work missed while being disciplined by suspension. It is the responsibility of the students to see that this work is made up within the amount of days equaling the length of suspension following readmission to school.

30 “IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION” is exclusion from classes. No student may receive an in-school suspension unless the student has been informed of the reasons for the suspension and has been given an opportunity to respond before the suspension becomes effective. Communication to the parents or guardian shall follow the suspension or action taken by the school.

When the in-school suspension exceeds ten consecutive school days, an informal hearing with the principal shall be offered to the student’s parent or guardian prior to the eleventh school day in accordance with the hearing procedures set forth on pages 32 and 33. Provisions for the student’s education will be made for the student’s education during the period of the in-school suspension.

EXPULSION In the Punxsutawney Area School District expulsions are conducted according to Chapter 12 of Pennsylvania School Code as follows;

"EXPULSION" is exclusion from school by the Board of Education for a period exceeding ten school days and may be permanent expulsion from school rolls. All expulsions require a prior formal hearing.

During the period prior to the hearing and decision of the Board in an expulsion case, the student shall be placed in his normal classroom except as set forth below.

If it is determined that, after an informal hearing, a student's presence in his normal class would constitute a threat to the health, safety, morals or welfare of others, and it is not possible to hold a formal hearing within the period of a suspension, the student may be excluded from school for more than ten days, if the formal hearing is not unreasonably delayed. Any student so excluded shall be provided with alternative education, which may include home study.

Students who are less than seventeen years of age are still subject to the compulsory school attendance law even though expelled, and they must be provided an education. The initial responsibility for this rests with the student's parents or guardian, through placement in another school, through tutorial or correspondence study or through another educational program approved by the district superintendent.

31 If the parents or guardian are unable to provide for the required education they must within thirty days submit to the school district written evidence so stating. The district then has the responsibility to make some provision for the student's education. If thirty days pass without the district receiving satisfactory evidence that the required education is being provided to the student, it must re-contact the parent and, pending the parent's or guardian's provision of such education, the district must make some provision for the student's education. If the approved educational program is not complied with, the school district may also take action in accordance with the Juvenile Act, to ensure that the child will receive a proper education.

DISCIPLINARY HEARINGS

FORMAL HEARINGS A formal hearing is required in all expulsion actions. This hearing may be held before the Board of School Directors or a duly authorized committee of the Board, or a qualified hearing examiner appointed by the Board. Where the hearing is conducted by a committee of the Board or a hearing examiner, a majority vote of the entire School Board is required to expel a student.

The following due process requirements are to be observed with regard to the formal hearing: 1. Notification of the charges shall be sent to the student's parents or guardian by certified mail. 2. Sufficient notice of the time and place of the hearing must be given. 3. The hearing shall be held in private unless the student or parent requests a public hearing. 4. The student has the right to be represented by counsel. 5. The student has the right to be presented with the names of witnesses against the student, and copies of the statements and affidavits of those witnesses. 6. The student has the right to request that any such witnesses appear in person and answer questions or be cross-examined. 7. The student has the right to testify and produce witnesses on his own behalf. 8. A record must be kept of the hearing, either by a stenographer or by tape recorder, and the student is entitled, at the student's expense, to a copy of the transcript. 9. The proceeding must be held with all reasonable speed.

32 Where the student disagrees with the results of the hearing, recourse is available in the appropriate Court of the Commonwealth. If it is alleged that a constitutional issue is involved, the student may file a Claim for Relief in the appropriate Federal District Court.

INFORMAL HEARINGS The purpose of the informal hearing is to enable the student to meet with the appropriate school official to explain the circumstances surrounding the event for which the student is being suspended, or to show why the student should not be suspended. The informal hearing is meant to encourage the student's parents or guardian to meet with the principal to discuss ways by which future offenses can be avoided.

The following due process requirements are to be observed in regard to the informal hearing: 1.Notification of the reasons for the suspension shall be given in writing to the parents or guardian and to the student. 2.Sufficient notice of the time and place of the informal hearing shall be given. 3.A student has the right to question any witnesses present at the hearing. 4.A student has the right to speak and produce witnesses on his own behalf. 5.The district shall offer to hold the informal hearing within the first five days of suspension.

READMISSION CONFERENCE The purpose of the re-admittance conference is to discuss the situation that caused the suspension and be proactive to prevent future occurrences. A parent/guardian is to accompany their child to the school the day the suspension has concluded to meet with a principal and sign the re-admittance form. The student could be withheld from classes until this meeting takes place.

SPECIFIC OFFENSES WHICH MAY RESULT IN SUSPENSION/EXPULSION The Pennsylvania School Code provides in section 24 Pardons Statutes 13- 1318 that a student may be suspended or expelled on account of disobedience or misconduct. If a student does, or attempts to do any offenses, while in attendance at school, while on school property, while engaged in or at a school sponsored activity or events, while on, entering or leaving a school bus, or while other wise subject to the jurisdiction of the School District, such

33 as the following offenses, which are provided only as examples, and not intended to be an exclusive list, he shall be subject to discipline, which may be as severe as suspension or even permanent expulsion. 1.Lying. 2.Possession or use of tobacco in any form. 3.Refusing to report to the office when sent by an administrator or teacher. 4.Leaving school property without permission or under false pretense. 5.Excessive unexcused absences 6.Inciting or attempting to cause students to riot or cause civil disorder. 7.Defacing, damaging or destroying any school property, or the property of another student, or school personnel. 8.Theft 9.Threatening, intimidating, harassing, hazing, attempting to do, or doing bodily harm to another person. 10. Purchasing, consuming, possessing, transporting, selling, using, or being under the influence of any alcohol, liquor or malt or brewed beverages. This includes consuming alcohol off of school grounds and then entering school grounds or attending a school sponsored event on or off campus. 11. Purchasing, possessing, transporting, using or being under the influence of drugs, mood altering substances, and/or alcohol. This includes using drugs or mood altering substances, and or alcohol off of school grounds and then entering school grounds or attending a school sponsored event, on or off campus. 12. Purchasing, consuming, possessing, transporting, selling, using, or being under the influence of any non-controlled substance that has a stimulant or depressant effect on humans, or has a label or container of which, substantially resembles a specific controlled substance, including such non-controlled substances as set forth in the "Look Alike Drug Statute"; as well as any other drug paraphernalia, or any other medication, pharmaceutical product, or drug, even though these may be lawfully prescribed, or non-prescription items, unless advance approval of the school administration is obtained. 13. Using obscenities, vulgarities, and/or profanities. 14. Showing disrespect, or disobeying any teacher, administrator or other school personnel. 15. Forgery 16. Cheating (Students receive an official warning and any classroom consequences on the first offense and are suspended on the second cheating offense along with classroom consequences.)

34 17. Entering another student's locker or other personal possessions without office permission. 18. Fighting 19. Violation of weapons policy. 20. Possession of any knife on school property or while attending any school function. 21. Participating in or assisting in the making of a bomb threat or any other form of threat that creates a risk or potential risk of a catastrophe. 22. Disrupting the educational process. 23. Repeated misconduct or any behavior deemed inappropriate by the administration. 24. Possession of an electronic cigarette (e-cig) and the drops associated with their use.

A student may also be suspended or expelled when he is involved in any conduct that violates the law, including but not limited to violations of any provision of the Crimes Code, the Juvenile Code, any local ordinance, etc., or when he is engaged in any behavior that causes any unsafe conditions or that infringes upon the rights of others. In addition, a student may face a disciplinary hearing and be expelled for accumulated disciplinary infractions and/or suspensions that have occurred over the course of a school year.

THE FOLLOWING PROCEDURE WILL BE FOLLOWED WHEN A STUDENT IS SUSPENDED: 1. The suspension will usually begin the day that the infraction occurs or the day school officials learn of the infraction. 2. The student will remain in school until dismissal time under the supervision of the Principal or Assistant Principal and will not attend his regular classes. 3. At the end of the day, the student will be given a suspension form to be given to his parents when he arrives home. 4. While a student is on an out-of-school suspension, he must remain home during the regular school hours. 5. When a student is on in-school suspension, he must report to school as usual but may not attend regular classes. Instead he will be under the direction of the Principal or Assistant Principal who will see that the student spends the day studying his school subjects. 6. While a student is on a suspension he/she will not participate in or attend any school-sponsored activity.

35 7. Students who violate any of the above procedures will have their suspension extended. 8. A parent or legal guardian must accompany the student to school and attend a readmission conference with the Principal or Assistant Principal before the student may return to classes. See the Readmission Conference information on page 33.

Students who receive multiple suspensions during one year will usually follow the procedures listed below: 1. The first suspension will usually be a three-day in-school suspension. During this suspension teachers will furnish assignments and the student must complete assignments and all work and forms of evaluation prior to readmission to regular classes or within 3 days of return to school. Students may be required to complete additional assignments as assigned by a principal, the ISS Monitor, or a teacher. 2. The second suspension will usually be a five-day out-of-school suspension. During this suspension obtaining assignments will be the obligation of the student and the student must complete all work and forms of assignment prior to readmission to regular classes or within 5 days of return to school. 3. The third suspension usually will result in one of the following: a. A ten-day out-of-school suspension in which all the requirements of the second suspension will be met. This option is used when two of the three suspensions are of a less serious degree. During this suspension obtaining assignments will be the obligation of the student and the student must complete all work and forms of assignment prior to readmission to regular classes or within 10 days of return to school. b. A full out-of-school suspension, which results in a hearing before the Board of Education. This option is used following Option 3-A or when two of the three suspensions are of a serious degree.

These regulations will be applicable to those students enrolled in the secondary schools of the district with the exception of those students enrolled in certain special education programs. The administration reserves the right to waive the conditions as stated when it appears such action is in the best interest of the school and/or the student.

36 If the Principal determines the offense to be of a severe nature, he may request a hearing before the Board without proceeding through steps 1, 2, or 3 above.

SCHOOL BUS DISCIPLINE CODE The School Laws (24-2541) of Pennsylvania permit School Boards to provide transportation for elementary students living more than one and a half (1 l/2) miles from school and for secondary students residing more than two (2) miles from the school they attend. To facilitate the proper use of this privilege the Board of Education has prepared and approved these rules.

A. The driver of a school bus, who is in charge of maintaining discipline on the bus, has the right to verbally reprimand any student who misbehaves. B. Immediately after any act of misconduct, school bus drivers must file with the high school Principal or Assistant Principal a written "Notice of Unsatisfactory Conduct on School Bus" so that disciplinary action can be taken. C. If the area of misconduct encompasses any of the following the Principal or Assistant Principal shall have the authority upon receipt of "Notice of Unsatisfactory Conduct on School Bus" to enforce the following: 1. Failing to follow reasonable instructions of driver, fighting on bus, using tobacco in any form, destroying bus property, swearing, throwing any object, lighting matches, refusing to remain seated while bus is in motion, or engaging in any other action that impairs or endangers his life or the life of any other student, driver, or any vehicle or person in the vicinity of the bus may result in a minimum of three (3) days to a maximum of ten (10) days suspension of riding privileges. Infractions on the school bus may also result in detention, suspension, or expulsion where applicable. 2. In the instance where intentional damage to a bus occurs, the parents of the students involved will be expected to reimburse the contractor for the full amount of the damage repair/replacement costs. 3. Parents will be responsible for their child's attendance during the bus suspension. D. A Principal shall inform the student's parents of the act of misconduct and the extent of the student's suspension, and may request the parents to meet with the administration, bus driver, and school transportation director to discuss the student's misconduct before the bus privileges are restored.

37 E. In the event of continual and persistent misconduct by a student riding a bus, the Board may, after a proper hearing, suspend said student for such time as the Board may determine, during which time the student and his parents shall be required to furnish transportation. Such hearings or suspensions may be delegated to a duly authorized committee of the Board.

All school buses in the Punxsutawney Area School District may be equipped with video cameras for recording both the audio and video portions of the school bus ride to and from school. Students are reminded that their conversations and behavior may be recorded and any disciplinary decisions may be based on the audio and video camera review.

RULES FOR ALTERNATIVE BUS RIDING PRIVILEGES 1. If a parent / guardian desires to have a student either ride another bus or egress from a bus at a stop other than the one initially assigned, the following procedures will be utilized: a. All “daily passes” are issued for single events. b. Requests for daily passes should be written to include the reason for request, bus number, stop location, student name and dated and signed by the parent / guardian. These requests must be made in writing by 9:30 a.m. on the day the request is for. c. Requests should be presented to the HS office. A pass will be issued for presentation to the bus driver denoting the requested change. The stop must already be a designated stop. d. Requests from the parent / guardian should be initialed by the principal and sent to the Transportation Director monthly. 2. After consulting with the Transportation Director, the principal or head teacher may grant exceptions to this procedure in extenuating circumstances.

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

DISCIPLINE REGARDING PERSONAL CONDUCT FOR EXTRA- CURRICULAR/ATHLETICS Punxsutawney Area School District Policy #218 regarding Student Discipline provides for the following concerning athletics and other extracurricular activities.

"This policy shall also apply to student conduct that occurs off school

38 property and would otherwise violate the Code of Student Conduct if any of the following circumstances exist:

The student is a member of an extracurricular activity and has been notified that particular off-campus conduct could result in exclusion from such activities."

Simply stated students involved in athletics and extracurricular activities have a higher expectation of behavior and conduct both on and off school property. In addition, athletes and students in extracurricular activities have less of an expectation of privacy than other students. If notice is provided to the student, disciplinary consequences for off campus behavior may be issued. Both the behaviors and consequences should be noted in the letter provided to parents and students. Consequences are limited to exclusions from the extra curricular activity or athletic activity.

PASD Policy #218 can be reviewed on the District Web-Site.

SCHOOL POLICY 1. Regular schoolwork comes first. Participation in extra-curricular activities is a PRIVILEGE AND NOT A RIGHT. Students will be restricted in their extra-curricular activities whenever it appears that their regular schoolwork is suffering. 2. As soon as any activity becomes a teacher activity, instead of a student activity, it will be dropped. 3. A student may hold only one of the following positions: a. Any student body office defined in the Student Government Constitution. b. President of any class.

If a conflict with the rule exists, the student will have to make a choice of which job he wishes to hold.

INVITATION TO JOIN CLUBS Upon entering PAHS, you are invited to become interested and acquainted with the clubs of our high school so that you may join various clubs early in your high school course.

All school clubs are scheduled to meet on certain specified dates.

39 RULES FOR CLUBS The purpose of all school clubs that are organized in Punxsutawney Area High School is to enrich classroom activities and to present opportunities for self-directed, democratic citizenship. In order to hold a membership in one of these clubs, one must be registered in the department or have already taken all courses in that department, and must not belong to more than two other clubs. The officers of these clubs must meet the requirements listed under "Qualifications for Club Officers” below.

The funds of the club must be deposited in the general school account where separate accounts will be kept for each organization. For payment of any club expense, a voucher must be drawn in sufficient time for approval of the Principal. Any money raised by clubs must be used for general school purposes.

No club is allowed to have more than one purely social meeting a year. This meeting shall be limited to the members, their guests and the faculty sponsors. The entertainment must be approved by the sponsors and limited to members of the group or to persons brought in by the sponsor. No social meeting may last later than 10 o'clock P.M. and all meetings must be held in the high school building or in homes of the sponsors or members.

The best organizations are those that can use, in worthwhile activities, the largest number of students. Intelligent, sympathetic and continuous faculty guidance is needed for all student organizations. The student organization should try to stimulate in its members participation in intellectual activities and to inculcate in them high ideals by which each individual is able to govern himself. The full test of the success of a pupil organization lies in the worthy conduct of its members, not only in school groups but in other organizations of which they are members. All clubs should grow out of and be closely related to curricular and extra-curricular activities. All fundraisers must be approved by the Principal.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR CLUB OFFICERS 1) Must have passed all units of work the previous semester. 2) No person may be president of more than one club. 3) Must have and maintain an average of 82.5 and no failing grades. 4) Any officer suspended from school will have their position revoked.

40 RULES GOVERNING CLASS OFFICERS 1. All students running for class office must have a 90 average grade in their schoolwork and no failing grades in the previous school year. 2. All campaign posters, a limit of two, made by students must first be approved by the Principal in the office. 3. A student may not hold the same office two years in a row. 4. All students running for the office of president must give a speech to be considered for election. This must be approved one day prior to the speech by the Student Government advisor and/or Principal. 5. All students must submit a petition of at least fifty names from the students in their own class. 6. All members must follow the Class Officers Rules and By-laws.

CLUB DESCRIPTIONS

AGRICULTURE CLUB The purpose of the agriculture club is to teach others that there is more to agriculture than just farm work, and to raise awareness that agriculture is a part of everyone’s daily lives. Students will learn more about all of the agricultural fields. Members may go on field trips to events and locations such as: the Farm Show, Keystone International Livestock Expo, and Penn State. The club will also host guest speakers throughout the year. 8th grade students are invited and encouraged to join.

ART CLUB (10-11-12) The high school art club is open to students who are enrolled or have been enrolled in any art class of the Punxsutawney Area High School for the current school year. The club provides group projects for students interested in extending the use of their art skills in school and community art projects. The club sponsors an annual spring art exhibit. Special programs and field trips offer the club members a chance to learn about art from out-of-school sources.

ART CLUB (8-9) This club is open to students in 8th and 9th grade who have enrolled in an art class and has a sincere interest in art. The club provides group projects for students interested in extending the use of their art skills in school and community art projects. Special programs and field trips offer the club members a chance to learn about art from out-of-school sources.

41 BAND FRONT The band front is comprised of students in grades 8 through 12. Interested students must audition in February and March. The auditions are open for students in grades 7 through 11. All band front members are expected to follow the band schedule and band handbook. Band front members are expected to be positive, contributing members of the Punxsutawney Area High School Band. All band front members must have and maintain an 82.5% grade point average in order to participate in band front.

BASEBALL ASSOCIATION The purpose of Baseball Association is to promote school spirit and provide financial assistance to the Punxsutawney High School baseball team. The association will also assist team members in the M&M fundraiser. Requirements are any student in grades 8-12 and must be a member of the Punxsutawney School District. Officers will be elected and meetings will be once a month.

BIBLE CLUB Students from all faiths are provided with the opportunity to openly discuss relevant topics and events. The club also has a goal of helping to promote a positive environment at Punxsutawney Area High School. Bible club will be meeting during activity periods on assigned days, and it is available for all students attending PAHS. 8th grade students are invited and encouraged to join.

CHORUS CLUB Chorus Club is open to any student from 8th - 12th grade who participates in any of our choirs, both curricular and extra-curricular. Performance ensembles that belong to this club include Mixed Chorus, Women's Chorus and 8th Grade Chorus, which meet during the school day, as well as Select Ensemble, Show Choir and Men's Chorus, which meet during Activity Period or after school. The purpose of the club is to provide opportunities for chorus students to participate in music activities in addition to performing as a choir in concert and to gather as a social group of students who enjoy making music together. Every year our club designs and purchases a group t-shirt and participates in a group trip to see a musical. We also travel to area nursing homes and elementary schools to perform at Christmas and in the Spring.

42 DRAMA CLUB The goal of the Drama Club is to bring legitimate theatrical experiences to the student body. This can include workshop style activities, experimenting with make-up, stage combat exercises, and watching theatrical performances. 8th grade students are invited and encouraged to join.

FUTURE HEALTH SERVICES The Future Health Services Club membership is open to any student in eighth through twelfth grades who wants to explore different health fields as a possible career. Various moneymaking projects enable the club members to go on a field trip to a selected medical institution or health career fair. 8th grade students are invited and encouraged to join.

GARDEN / ENVIRONMENTAL CLUB The objective of this club is to promote greater knowledge of horticulture and environmental conservation and preservation. One of the major goals is to help students understand and appreciate the important connections between living and non-living things. Students will learn about plants, animals, wilderness survival, organic farming, nutrients, minerals, and more!

KEY CLUB Key Club is an international student-led organization, which provides its members with opportunities to provide service, build character, and develop leadership skills. The organization offers a wide range of opportunities to its members including: leadership development, vocational guidance, college scholarships, subscription to Key Club magazine, service- learning, personal enrichment, value-added membership programs, and liability insurance coverage. 8th grade students are invited and encouraged to join.

MATH CLUB The missions of this organization are to promote spirit and enthusiasm for mathematics, help students in need, and educate its members in the study of mathematics. The club will also strive to assist students in making informed choices regarding a future career in a mathematics related area. Meetings will be held monthly. 8th grade students are invited and encouraged to join.

SADD Club SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions)/Busted is an organization whose goal is to equip students with skills that will help them deal with issues that are relevant in their lives. Since SADD’s approach involves

43 students accepting the responsibility of delivering prevention messages to their peers about saying no to drug usage and smoking, underage drinking (alcohol), impaired driving, violence, and suicide; club members will be expected to participate in school and community projects that involve educating peers about these topics. SADD membership is open to students in grades eight through twelve.

SCIENCE CLUB (10-11-12) The Science Club meets on the first Thursday of each month. It strives to educate and interest its members in the study of science and science-related careers. Sophomores, juniors and seniors with high achievement and interest in science are welcome to join. Science programs consisting of guest speakers and films are presented. The group goes on field trips to universities, museums, planetariums, or industries.

SCIENCE CLUB (8-9) This club strives to educate and interest its members in the study of science and science-related careers. 8th and 9th graders with high achievement and interest in science are welcome to join. Science programs consisting of guest speakers and films are presented. The group goes on field trips to universities, museums, planetariums, or industries.

SIGN LANGUAGE CLUB The Sign Language Club, known as the “Signs of Friends,” will seek to establish interest and skills in basic sign language to communicate with individuals that utilize sign language as a method of communication. Members may also become involved in service activities by volunteering to participate in community events that would support individuals with specific needs. 8th grade students are invited and encouraged to join.

SKI CLUB The Punxsutawney Area High School Ski Club is an organization, which promotes participation in the enjoyment and appreciation of downhill skiing. The club offers members an opportunity to meet and make friends, and to share knowledge and interest in skiing. Membership is open to any student in grades eight through twelve. Various fundraisers are held throughout the year to help members afford the opportunity to ski. Day trips are taken, as well as overnight trips, to various ski resorts. Guest speakers and films are included in the bimonthly meetings.

44 SPANISH CLUB The purpose of Spanish Club is to further interest in Spanish and Hispanic culture. Often local people are brought in to discuss their trips to Spanish speaking countries. Videos of various types in Spanish are also shown. A field trip is taken each spring to see a play presented in Spanish and in English. Students must be currently taking Spanish or have completed two years of Spanish.

STUDENT GOVERNMENT Although not considered a club, Student Government acts as a liaison between the student body and school administration. The Government’s purpose is to coordinate student activities and innovate useful ideas. Student Government sponsors charity events, dances, and spirit days throughout the year in which students are encouraged to participate. Student Government Projects--- PAHS Student Government is proud to have contributed a message board in the cafeteria, the copier in the library, and a sidewalk from the back parking lot. Student Government has also donated $10,000 towards courtyard renovations from which a gazebo and six tables were purchased.

TECHNOLOGY STUDENT ASSOCIATION This organization is dedicated to providing a variety of engineering and technology experiences for students to explore. Through participation in the Technology Student Association students learn leadership and teamwork skills. Activities will include several different subgroups, competitive events, field trips and guest speakers. This club provides students with opportunity to apply science, technology, engineering and math concepts to meet challenges. To be eligible for membership students must have taken at least one technology class, participate in fund raising activities, attend meetings, and paid the required dues. 8th grade students who are enrolled in or completed Multimedia Technology 8 are invited and encouraged to join.

VARSITY CLUB The main objective of the Varsity Club is to promote a high standard of athletics and to create a fellowship among varsity athletes. Requirements include the following: 1. Athletes who have won a letter in a varsity sport. 2. Any athlete who participates in a varsity sport for three years without lettering is eligible to join at the end of his junior year. 3. Managers of any sport may be candidates for membership if they have served as manager for two years in the same sport.

45 Varsity Club activities include the following: 1. The major fund raising campaign is the selling of advertisements for the football programs. This is done in the summer months. 2. Providing escorts for and helping organize the Winter Sports Queen ceremony. 3. Selling football programs at home games. 4. Present an award each year for the best all-around male and female senior athlete in the Varsity Club. 5. Promote the attendance of all athletic events in the high school. 6. Sponsor field trips each year to an event or place of the members' choice. 7. This club also recognizes its obligation to be a service organization to the high school. 8. Sponsor a senior field trip of the members’ choice.

WRESTLING ASSOCIATION The Wrestling Association is an organization that is interested in the promotion of the Punxsutawney Area High School wrestling team. They have various moneymaking activities that benefit the wrestling program. The Wrestling Association meets the second Tuesday of each month. 8th graders who wrestle are invited and encouraged to join.

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES & HOME SCHOOLED STUDENTS Act 67 of 2005 requires all school districts to allow home-schooled students to participate in extracurricular activities. Home-schooled students must meet the equivalent participation and try-out criteria as students enrolled in the district. Further, home-schooled students must comply with all policies and rules of the governing organization of the activity, including interscholastic athletics. If the district offers to its enrolled students physical examinations necessary to participate in the activity, it must also allow home-schooled students access to the exams. The Punxsutawney Area School District has adopted a policy on Act 67. Materials regarding participation in extracurricular activities are available in the Punxsutawney High School office.

46 ATHLETICS

ATHLETIC ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY Athletes must be passing at least 4 credits to be eligible to participate and practice in an athletic program during a season. This regulation is set by the P.I.A.A.

ATTENDANCE Students absent from school, unless excused in advance, are not permitted to practice or participate in school events on the day of the absence. Students must be in school by 12:00 PM in order to practice or participate in that day's school activity. Any student on a doctor’s excuse not to participate in physical education class may NOT participate in athletics until a physician’s release is obtained for physical education class.

ATTENDANCE & HOW IT AFFECTS ELIGILBILITY In accordance with the PIAA a student who has been absent from school during a semester for a total of twenty or more school days, shall not be eligible to participate in an inter-school practice, scrimmage, or contest until the student has been in attendance for a total of sixty days following the student’s twentieth day of absence, except that where there is an excused absence due to death in the immediate family or of a near relative as defined in Section 1154 of the Public School Code of 1949, as amended, court subpoena, quarantine, or to attend a religious activity/function which the church requires its members to attend, or an excused absence of five or more school days due to the same confining illness or injury, such excused absences may be waived from the application of this rule by the District Committee. Attendance at summer school does not count toward the sixty days required.

ATHLETIC AWARDS AND LETTER REQUIREMENTS Punxsutawney Area High School awards to athletes shall be: 1. The letter "P" with a gold pin for the appropriate sport attached, will be awarded with the letter jacket. 2. Any other award the athlete earns shall be a gold pin for the appropriate sport, which can be attached to a varsity jacket.

Awards may be earned in the following sports: boys' and girls' basketball, boys' and girls' cross country, football, girls' volleyball, boys’ and girls’ golf,

47 boys' and girls' track, wrestling, baseball, boys' and girls' tennis girls' softball, boys’ and girls’ soccer and cheerleading.

Athletes who are interested in learning the criteria for earning an award in a particular sport should see the head coach of that sport.

LETTER JACKET POLICY A jacket will be awarded to an athlete participating in competitive inter- scholastic sports approved by the Punxsutawney Area School District. Awards will be made when one of the following requirements is met:

1. Earn one letter in each of any two sports, or 2. Earn two letters in one sport, for two years. 3. A senior who has completed three years in a sport and qualifies for a letter his senior year. 4. A manager or trainer must serve for three years and be a head manager or trainer during his senior year. 5. In case of injury, illness, or any unusual circumstance a decision as to whether or not an athletic assistant manager or assistant trainer will receive a jacket will be made by the coaching staff, principal and athletic director. 6. All candidates must be recommended by the coaching staff, principal, and athletic director as having exhibited good sportsmanship, loyalty, and moral character both on and off the field during the period of participation.

Two options will be available to the athletes: 1. A nylon jacket with quilted lining and a knit collar, the entire cost of which will be paid by the School District. 2. A wool winter jacket, part of the cost (price of nylon jacket) to be paid by the School District, with the balance to be paid by the athlete.

PHS FITNESS CENTER - STUDENT GUIDELINES The PHS fitness center is primarily for use by individual students and student athletes. All physical education classes now also complete a six-week rotation in the fitness center. Following are some general student guidelines for use of the center:  Students must have a staff member present to utilize the fitness center.  Students must be in the fitness center to work out, not hang out or engage in horseplay.

48  Students must be considerate to others and listen to staff directives.  Students must utilize equipment properly and safely. Proper use includes cleaning up the facility and wiping down equipment when finished.  Students should not lift weights or workout alone.  Students should use bar clips and other safety equipment as well as utilizing a spotter for free weight lifts.  Athletic teams utilizing the center at certain scheduled times may prompt limits to fitness center availability or capacity.

USE OF DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS IN WEIGHT TRAINING The administration and athletic staff at PHS do not promote the use of dietary or performance enhancing supplements during weight training. These substances include, but are not limited to, the following: creatine, vitamin supplements, caffeine pills, glutamine, protein supplements, diet pills, and fat burning agents. These substances in any form will be regulated the same as any other over-the-counter medication. Students may not use these substances on school property without a valid medical order on file with the school nurse, and students may not personally possess medications on school property.

Although many of these substances are widely available over-the-counter in various forms (shakes, powders, pills), the benefits that they offer can be achieved in more natural ways by planning and regulating diet. Parents should carefully consider the choice for their student to use dietary supplements, and any decision to utilize supplements during training should be reviewed with the child’s physician.

STEROID POLICY 1. Except for valid medical purposes confirmed by a written physician's statement, the use of anabolic steroids by any student involved in any school related athletic program is prohibited. 2. Process for those who are involved in any school related athletic program including intramural programs: a. For the first violation, suspension from all school athletics for the remainder of the school year. b. For the second violation, suspension from all school athletic programs for the balance of the current school year and the following school year. c. For the third violation, permanent suspension from school athletics.

49 3. After being suspended under the provisions noted in section B 1 and B 2, no student shall be eligible to resume participation in school athletics unless there has been a medical determination that no residual evidence of steroids exists. 4. The dangers of the use of anabolic steroids shall be included in the District's health related instructional programs along with any other drug and alcohol program.

NOTE: The unauthorized use of Steroids on school property will also result in suspension from school.

ATHLETIC TEAM TRANSPORTATION No athletic team will be transported by private cars for any reason unless permission is granted by a Principal and/or Athletic Director. Commercial transportation will be chartered for all games and scrimmages. Students who are members of an athletic team going to a game or scrimmage will return on the bus unless a note signed by a parent is presented to a Principal and/or Athletic Director prior to the trip indicating the athlete will be riding home with his/her parents. Students failing to follow these guidelines may be subject to administrative penalties.

SPORTSMANSHIP The American Heritage Dictionary defines sportsmanship as “one who abides by the rules of a contest and accepts victory or defeat graciously. Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association, Inc. (PIAA) defines sportsmanship as “those qualities, which are characterized by generosity and genuine concern for others. Further, an awareness is expected of the impact of an individual’s influence on others behavior.”

The ideal of sportsmanship permeates virtually every aspect of our culture. The ethic of fair play may be witnessed in all facets of life. However, its origin has been firmly established in sports, as conceptually and pragmatically a training ground for good citizenship and high behavioral standards. Sportsmanship is viewed by the PIAA as a concrete measure of each school’s and individual’s understanding of their commitment to the educational nature of interscholastic athletics.

50 THE FUNDAMENTALS OF SPORTSMANSHIP The PIAA and its member schools are strongly emphasizing the importance of GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP. The one thing we need to realize is that many people have not had GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP explained to them. Hopefully the following will help everyone to understand their responsibilities at an athletic contest. 1. GAIN AN UNDERSTANDING AND APPRECIATION FOR THE RULES OF THE CONTEST. - Know the rules. If you are uninformed, refrain from expressing opinions on officials, coaches, or administrative decisions. 2. EXERCISE REPRESENTATIVE BEHAVIOR AT ALL TIMES. - A prerequisite to good sportsmanship requires one to understand his/her own prejudices that may become a factor in his/her behavior. Your behavior influences others whether you are aware of it or not. 3. RECOGNIZE AND APPRECIATE SKILLED PERFORMANCES REGARDLESS OF AFFILIATION. - Applause for an opponent’s good performance displays generosity and is a courtesy that should be regularly practiced. 4. EXHIBIT RESPECT FOR THE OFFICIALS. - The officials of any contest are impartial arbitrators who are trained and who perform to the best of their ability. Mistakes by all those involved in the contest are part of the game. 5. DISPLAY OPENLY A RESPECT FOR THE OPPONENT AT ALL TIMES. - Opponents are guests and should be treated cordially, provided with the best accommodations, and accorded tolerance at all times. 6. DISPLAY PRIDE IN YOUR ACTIONS AT EVERY OPPORTUNITY. - Never allow your ego to interfere with good judgment and your responsibility as a school representative.

HIGH SCHOOL PUBLICATIONS

THE MIRROR The Mirror staff consists of juniors and seniors who meet daily during the first semester to publish the high school yearbook. Students do not receive academic credit for this class but they do the basics of desktop publishing. Potential staff members submit applications at the beginning of the second semester for the following year's staff, a staff is chosen from the applicants.

51 THE SHADOW The "Shadow" is the school newspaper. The "Shadow" staff meets daily for a semester as a journalism class for which they can earn academic credit. Students on the newspaper staff gain skills in journalistic writing, word processing, copy editing, and newspaper layout.

THE STUDENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (S.A.P) S.A.P is designed to help school personnel to identify issues, including alcohol, drugs, mental health, and behavioral concerns which could pose a barrier to a student’s learning and school success. It is an intervention, not a treatment program. The SAP uses a systematic process, along with specially trained school personnel, to intervene and refer these students to appropriate in-school and/or community services. Parent involvement is an essential part of the process. The core of the program is a team trained according to state guidelines. Members of the team include teachers, principals, nurses, school counselors, school psychologists, and representatives from human service agencies. The Student Assistance Program is a voluntary support service for a student and families. All information regarding a student’s involvement in a program is confidential and maintained in the best interest of the student. The primary responsibility of schools is to educate students. If a student is under the influence of mind-altering chemicals, that student cannot learn. If a student is depressed and feels hopeless, he or she cannot learn effectively. If the student disrupts the school climate, other students will not be able to learn, and the teachers will not be able to teach. Schools are the only institution through which all young people must pass. This gives the school officials a unique opportunity to identify and help those whose lives are being negatively affected by a high-risk behavior. GUIDANCE Students are assigned to a counselor via grade to facilitate guidance functions. Students and parents are welcomed and urged to consult their counselor at any time there is a need. Counselor assignments are as follows: 8th and 9th Grade Miss Amy Hand 10th and 11th Grade Mrs. Jennifer White 12th Grade Mrs. Emily Cassidy

52 Guidance Services include assisting students with subject selection and changes, registering new students, providing occupational and educational information, maintaining cumulative high school records, individual counseling and testing. After the classroom teacher, the guidance counselor should be the point of contact to assist in the resolution of academic issues. The guidance counselor can also be a resource to assist students resolve conflicts. A variety of materials are available in the guidance office. Through the use of various career information and college catalogs, students are given the opportunity to explore their future plans. Opportunities are also provided for students to meet with representatives from various types of post secondary institutions. The guidance counselor can also be a resource to assist students resolve conflicts.

THE SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM OF STUDIES The High school academic program of studies is detailed in the current Punxsutawney Area High School Student Curriculum Guide.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS High School consists of grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. Students need a minimum of 23 credits to meet graduation requirements. All students must schedule a minimum of 6.25 credits per year. A. English 4.00 credits B. Math 4.00 credits C. Science 3.00 credits D. Social Studies 3.00 credits E. Physical Education 2.00 credits F. Health 0.50 credits G. Career Education 0.50 credits H. Family and Consumer Science 0.50 credits I. Electives 5.50 credits

KEYSTONE EXAM REQUIREMENTS (SUPPLEMENTAL INSTRUCTION AND PROJECT-BASED ASSESSMENT) Beginning with the class of 2015, all students must achieve at the proficient or advanced levels on each of the following Pennsylvania State Keystone Exams: Algebra 1, Biology, and English / Literature and Composition.

After two attempts, a student unable to achieve at the proficient or advanced levels on Keystone Exams may meet graduation requirements by completing

53 two years of supplemental instruction and demonstrating proficiency on a project-based assessment provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

At PAHS, we require three attempts at the Keystone Exam prior to the second year of supplemental instruction and completion of the project-based assessment.

STUDENT PROMOTION AND GRADE CLASSIFICATION (SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL) Promotion in high school is determined entirely on the number of credits earned by a student. Promotion requirements are as follows: A.9th grade --- promotion from 8th grade (passing at least 5.5 eighth grade classes) B.10th grade --- 5 credits C.11th grade --- 11 credits D.12th grade --- 17 credits

REPORT CARDS Report cards will be issued in the high school at the end of each nine-week grading period. The grades at the secondary level are marked in the following manner. Grades are marked on the scale of 100, or H for Honor, P for Pass, F for Fail. 93-100 A 4.0 87-92 B 3.0 80-86 C 2.0 75-79 D 1.0 74 or less F 0.0

An honor grade is an average of 90 or above; a 93 average is a high honor. Class rank is non-weighted with the exception of Advanced Placement English, Advanced Placement Calculus, Advanced Placement Biology, Advanced Placement European History, Advanced Placement U.S. History, and Advanced Placement Chemistry.

All incomplete grades must be made up by the end of the following grading period. When work has not been made up, it will become a failing grade for that period.

HONOR CARDS

54 A student who receives an average of 90 to 92.99 (with no failing grade) will be given an honor card. Those students who receive an average of 93 or above (with no failing grade) will be given a high honor card. The Superintendent and Principal will sign these cards. When a student has a withheld or incomplete grade, he will not be considered for an honor card until the work is made up and the grade is recorded.

STUDENT INFORMATION SYSTEM (SIS) With the addition of the “SIS” software to the Punxsutawney Area School District, parents and guardians now have the ability to more effectively communicate with teachers and view their children’s grades via the internet. The software enables parents and students to monitor grades, assignments, attendance, schedules, and permits access to the school calendar. Because of the amount of data and the sensitivity of the information parents/guardians will be issued a login and password. To obtain a login and password contact the high school guidance office.

CANVAS / ONLINE LEARNING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM The Punxsutawney Area School District has adopted Canvas Learning Management System as its chosen tool in online learning management. With the 21st Century Learning initiative, students at PHS are utilizing more online resources than ever in groundbreaking ways, and the ultimate goal at PHS is to use Canvas to mirror and supplement every available course. Canvas allows teachers to compile all course utilities and artifacts in one place for ease and efficiency. Teachers will also be using this system to distribute and collect assignments much of the time. Students can use Canvas to readily access much of what they might need for their courses, including syllabus, assignments, notes, classroom examples, grades, and often even an online textbook. Students who are absent from class are encouraged to seek out daily notes and assignments using this system.

NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY The Punxsutawney Chapter of the National Honor Society is an organization of juniors and seniors who have displayed outstanding scholarship, character, leadership, and service. The purpose of the organization is to create enthusiasm for scholarship, to stimulate a desire to render service, to promote leadership, and to develop character. Selection for membership is by a faculty council. To be eligible scholastically, a student must be enrolled in academic courses and have earned a cumulative high school grade point average of at least 95.0%. For a list of the course selection requirements, please see a

55 guidance counselor or NHS advisor. To determine eligibility in the areas of service and leadership, the faculty council will be looking to see that prospective members have participated in at least two ongoing school and/or community activities. Character may be evaluated by reviewing a prospective member’s discipline record as well as through the use of faculty evaluation forms and/or references. Once selected, members are encouraged to uphold the standards that were the basis of their selection.

NATIONAL JUNIOR HONOR SOCIETY NJHS is a worldwide organization that consists of many chapters consisting of 7th and 8th graders. Selection is based on five criteria: citizenship, service, leadership, scholarship and character. Members must maintain a high academic average and act as good citizens by participating in service projects.

HONOR AWARDS A distinguished honor award pin is given to each senior who has an accumulative average of 93 or above in grades 9, 10, 11, and 12.

SUMMER SCHOOL If there is sufficient need, selected subjects may be offered in summer school. Plans are made during April and May each year regarding course offerings. There will be a deadline to register, which will be strictly adhered to.

TUTORING During the school year when students require additional help in a particular course, they may request, through their counselor, a student tutor.

PEER TUTORING Students in the Learning Support or Life Skills programs may receive additional help from a peer tutor by requesting assistance through the Learning Support aide. The peer tutor is a volunteer who is available upon request to provide assistance to Learning Support students or Life Skills students during the tutors study halls or activity periods. Services available through this self-referral may consist of orally reading tests, help with completing homework, and support in reading. Students interested in volunteering to provide peer tutoring services may contact the Learning Support aide. The aide then conducts a student availability survey and coordinates schedules by matching tutors and students in need.

56 ACADEMIC SUPPORT Academic Support is designed to assist any high school student who is experiencing difficulty achieving academic success. Students enrolled in the program are required to keep a written record of daily homework assignments. The students are then given the opportunity to work on those assignments in homeroom and/or an academic support classroom in place of larger study halls. A regular education teacher may be available to assist them during the academic support period. The program encourages homework completion and studying in order to maximize each student’s academic success. Based on student performance on the PSSA or based on their academic record students can be assigned to academic support in place of study hall or during activity period until such time school officials deem the student has shown adequate progress. During Activity Period, these students are to remain in homeroom or Academic Support to complete assignments.

TRANSFER AND WITHDRAWAL Students who withdraw or transfer from our district before the end of the school term must report to the Guidance Office for clearance forms, complete them, and return them to the appropriate Guidance Counselor. Students will not be recommended by the school or given credits until proper clearance has been made. These students must return all books to the teachers, return their laptop to the library, and pay any outstanding fees that may be due.

Any student transferring to the Punxsutawney School District and their parent will be required to complete a Home Language Survey and Student Parent Handbook Review sheet during the enrollment process.

SCHOLARSHIP AND LOAN FUNDS There are available to graduating seniors many opportunities to secure financial aid for further education on the federal and state levels. In addition, there are several local foundations that provide financial aid to deserving students. Detailed information may be secured in the guidance office about all these opportunities.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND HEALTH REQUIREMENTS 1. All students in secondary schools are required to take physical education and health. Students who present a certificate from a physician certifying that he or she is unable to participate in regular gym classes for thirty days

57 or more, will be assigned academic activities in the area of health and physical education. 2. All physical education grades shall be Honor, Pass or Fail. 3. Students must secure their own gym uniforms. A standard approved uniform is desirable. 4. Gym classes will meet on odd or even days. 5. Sophomore health classes meet six (6) days per cycle for one (l) semester. 6. Health carries 1/2 credit and physical education carries 1/2 credit. 7. When students miss a gym class, they are required to make up the class either with their teacher, or one of the other gym teachers. 8. If a student presents a physician’s recommendation for modified physical education activities, the modifications will be made during the regular physical education class period. 9. A doctor's prescription on official stationary must be presented to the school nurse and initialed by her before a student is permitted to return to regular Physical Education class activities.

ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE The Punxsutawney School District will provide all students and equal and quality education, including those who are learning English as a second language (ESL). The Punxsutawney School District will provide appropriate assistance to enable limited English proficient (LEP) students to progress academically while they learn English.

It is a requirement that all students/parents complete a Home Language Survey and a Student/Parent Handbook review sheet, at the start of the school year.

SCHOOL HEALTH SERVICE By an act of the Legislature, all students in the 11th grade are required to have a complete examination, in order that any physical defects that retard progress and interfere with health may be detected. When such handicaps are detected, it is important that they be treated or corrected immediately. Parents are encouraged to have this exam completed by the child’s physician, since they know the child’s medical history and can order tests or x-rays needed at the time of the exam. The School Physicians may also perform the mandated exam. However, further diagnostic testing or immunization administration will still need to be ordered by the student’s personal physician.

58 Special medical examinations are given to those participating in athletics. These exams may be completed by the student’s family physician or the school physician in their office. Forms can be obtained from the Athletic Office. Also, there is a recertification process for multi-sport athletes. This is the process by which a student-athlete would only be required to have one physical examination for all three athletic seasons (fall, winter, spring). These forms are also available in the Athletic Office.

The school nurse may assist with physical examinations, performs hearing, vision, and growth screenings including BMI determination. She also provides first aid for illness, injury and handles communicable diseases as they arise. The school nurse does not diagnose. She does not give any medication unless directed to do so by the school doctor or by the student’s physician in accord with the medication policy.

MEDICATION ADMINISTRATION The control of medication in school is a very serious concern of the staff in the Punxsutawney Area School District. Physicians are encouraged to establish medication schedules so medication can be administered in the student’s home before and after school.

When a child is required to have medication administered at school, the following steps must be taken.

1. Before any prescribed medication may be administered to any student by district personnel, there must be written orders from a licensed physician, nurse practitioner, or physician’s assistant. These orders should include the name of the child, name of the drug, dosage, the time interval that the medication should be taken, and the reason for taking the medication.

The school nurse has forms the physician can and should use when submitting the information. It is the parent/guardian’s responsibility to have the physician complete this form and submit it to the nurse with the medication to be administered.

An appropriate pharmacy label with the child’s name, medication dose, and times of administration may be substituted for a written order for short term prescriptions of up to two weeks duration. (i.e. antibiotics, analgesics etc.) 2. The school nurse has standing orders to administer mild pain relievers. Tylenol/ Acetaminophen 325 mg or Ibuprofen 200 mg 1 or 2 tablets may

59 be administered for students for fever or mild pain. This dose may not be repeated within the same school day. Students may have Tylenol or Ibuprofen up to 4 times a year based on this standing order. 3. All medications (long and short term), including refills, are to be brought to school by the parent/guardian in an appropriately labeled pharmacy container. (If necessary, ask the pharmacist for an extra appropriately labeled pharmacy container, so that one can be left at home and at school.) The prescribed medicine, along with the doctor’s order to administer it, is to be delivered to the School Nurse or whoever is designated in that building to administer medications. Over the counter medication must be in the original bottle with a readable label accompanied by the physician’s order to administer.

All medications that are controlled by the Federal Narcotic Act (including Ritalin and some pain medications) must be brought to school by a parent / guardian or adult designee for all grade levels. Likewise, these medications must be picked up by the parent / guardian or adult designee if the medication is discontinued or at the end of the school year. 4. Most medications that are prescribed three times daily may be given before school, after school and at bedtime and therefore, should be given at those times. 5. Standing physician orders for p.r.n. or “as needed” emergency medication are permitted (i.e. asthma inhalers, allergy medications, migraine medications, etc.). These medications must also be accompanied by a written medical authorization form from a physician.

IT IS A VIOLATION OF THE SCHOOL DRUG POLICY FOR STUDENTS TO CARRY, DISPENSE, OR TO SELF ADMINISTER MEDICATION WITHOUT THE APPROPRIATE WRITTEN PERMISSIONS HAVING BEEN SUBMITTED TO THE SCHOOL NURSE. Epipens and Rescue Inhalers may be carried and self administered, but only once the physician writes an order stating the student may do so. As a safeguard, a second Epipen or inhaler should be kept in the health office for use if the student would forget to bring his medication to school. 6. Parents wishing to consult with the nurse regarding specific student concerns or question regarding this policy are welcome to do so.

60 EMERGENCY CARDS By signing the emergency cards and returning them to school you the parent/guardian are authorizing the school nurse staff to follow the school physician’s standing orders. The following medications may be administered to your child, when indicated, while in school: Benadryl, Chloraseptic Spray, Bactine, and Epipen. Also at the High School, Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen may be administered up to four times per school year.

SCHOOL INSURANCE Annually each student has the opportunity to purchase accident insurance through a group plan. This insurance covers you during the school day and/or a 24-hour period.

STUDENT SICKNESS AT SCHOOL Students who become ill during the school day should ask their teacher for permission to go to the main office first. If a student is too ill to go to the Principal's office alone, another student should accompany him or her. Under ORDINARY CIRCUMSTANCES, students should NOT go directly to the Health Room. The school nurse or Principal will decide whether or not the student should be sent home. The student should NOT call home himself.

GENERAL SCHOOL GUIDELINES

KING AND QUEEN Each year students are elected King and Queen of various school events: including, Fall Sports Queen, Winter Sports Queen, Groundhog King and Queen, and King and Queen of the Prom. To be eligible for these honors, the recipients must have been a member of our high school for two consecutive years. A person may be King or Queen of only one event during the school year.

ASSEMBLIES Our assemblies are held in the auditorium for the enjoyment of the student body. While students are not expected to maintain complete silence on the way to and from the auditorium, loud talking and whistling, etc. should be avoided. Pep sessions are held in the gymnasium and are for the purpose of giving the different teams support and school spirit. All students are encouraged to participate in the sessions and to also conduct themselves in a mannerly way.

61 SOCIAL EVENTS, CLASS TRIPS, AND FIELD TRIPS Social Events, Class Trips and Field Trips are valuable to a student’s overall educational experience. However, these activities are a privilege and not a right. Students can be prohibited from these activities due to negative behavior, poor attendance, or failing grades. The administration will make the decision as to who can and cannot participate in these endeavors. Also, when a student participates in these activities they must comply with all school rules. Failure to do so will result in consequences and loss of these privileges. PASD Board Policy 231 addresses this issue.

SCHOOL DANCES 1. All senior high school dances will be held at the high school. 2. Applications for guest slips must be in the Principal's office at a designated time by announcement for that specific dance. Guest slips are required for everyone except Punxsutawney High School students for every dance and will be approved at the discretion of the administration. In general, guests may not be under 9th grade or over 20 years of age unless approved by the principal. Also, students who have quit school or are high school dropouts may not be guests unless they provide documentation of GED, job training program, other education, or employment. 3. Any person who leaves the dance area without permission of the person in charge cannot return. Any person who leaves the building may not return. 4. Dances will start and end at times designated by the principal. Normally, times are 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. 5. Rides should pick up students 15 minutes after the dance. 6. Dances are a school function. The same regulations apply to all students as those of any school activity.

EXCUSAL FROM CLASSES OR STUDY HALL Students may be excused from a class or study hall: 1. By an oral or written request from the office. 2. By a teacher's excusal request slip (green slip) to go to another room to work. 3. By a library slip. 4. By signing a library sign-out sheet with the permission of the teacher or monitor in the study halls. 5. By signing a restroom sign-out sheet with the permission of a teacher or monitor.

62 USE OF ANY PART OF SCHOOL PROPERTY AFTER SCHOOL HOURS Any community group or group of individuals wanting to use any portion of the school building after 5:00 PM must obtain a Facilities Use Request and submit it to the Central Office to make necessary arrangements. Anyone wanting to use parts of these buildings during school hours must contact the Principal's office.

FIRE DRILL AND/OR EMERGENCY EXIT REGULATIONS Section 1517 of the Pennsylvania School Code states that, "fire drills shall be periodically conducted no less than one (1) per month".

1. Immediately upon sounding of the fire alarm, students and teachers will leave the building in the prescribed manner moving steadily and quietly. All windows and doors should be closed, with the lights turned off. TEACHERS ARE TO TAKE THEIR CLASS ROLLS WITH THEM. 2. Teachers will supervise their assigned groups at all times, and remain outside until the signal is given to return to the building. All rooms have fire exit arrows and maps noting the path for exiting the building. 3. All employees are instructed to leave the building. 4. Students should realize the serious nature of this drill. 5. Students will exit double file during fire drills. 6. Students should go to non-paved areas at least 100 feet away from the building. 7. Assign students to help physically handicapped students. 8. Should boys or girls be in the shower room, they should exit as rapidly as possible without creating an additional hazard. 9. The double doors throughout the building at the top and bottom of the stairs should be closed by the last room leaving that section of the building.

LOST ARTICLES Lost articles, which have been found should be turned into the Principal's office, where they may be claimed by the rightful owners.

LIBRARY USAGE The library is open during school hours. Pupils wishing to use the library during activity period will secure a library permit from the teacher assigning the work. Both parts of the library permit must be signed. These pupils must also sign their names on the sign-in slip on the end of the circulation desk in the library.

63 Pupils who wish to go to the library from a study hall may sign the library sign-out slip in the cafeteria or classroom and, as a group, go DIRECTLY to the library after signing out in the study halls. Students should not stop in restrooms or at lockers en route to the library. Library sign-in slips will be at the library desk and must be signed upon entering the room.

Each pupil is limited to one period a day. If it is necessary to go more than one period, prior permission must be secured from the librarian.

Books circulate for a period of two weeks. Encyclopedias, magazines, vertical file, and some special materials are circulated overnight and are to be returned by the end of activity period the next morning.

There is no set limit on the number of books a student may have out at a time. This may be determined by what is available on any given subject and the number of students needing the material. Students who are negligent in returning materials and paying fines will be limited as deemed fit by the librarian. Students abusing library privileges will be restricted from the library for a period of time to be determined by the librarian. Abuse of privileges include: unnecessary talking, disturbing other students, uncooperative behavior, not working constructively, and any other behaviors the librarian deems as disruptive to the daily operation of the library.

APPROPRIATE USE OF COMPUTER AND NETWORK SERVICES The Punxsutawney Area School District is pleased to offer students of the high school access to the district computer network for the internet as well as other telecommunications networks. Access to these systems will enable students to explore thousands of libraries, databases and bulletin boards while exchanging messages with other internet users throughout the world. Families should be warned that some material accessible through the internet and other telecommunication devices may contain items that are illegal, defamatory, inaccurate or potentially offensive to some people. Our intent is to make internet access available to further educational goals and objectives but students may find ways to access other materials as well. We believe that the benefits to students from internet access and other telecommunication systems in the form of information resources and opportunities exceed any disadvantages. But ultimately, parents and guardians are responsible for setting the standards that their children should follow. To that end, the

64 Punxsutawney Area School District respects each family’s right to decide whether or not to apply for access to the system.

Consistent with District policy, the following are not permitted: 1. Sending or displaying offensive messages or pictures. 2. Using obscene language, harassing, insulting or attacking others. 3. Damaging computers, computer systems or computer networks. 4. Violating copyright laws. 5. Using another’s password. 6. Trespassing in another’s folder, work or files. 7. Intentionally wasting limited resources. 8. Employing the network for commercial or political purposes.

Violations may result in a loss of access as well as other disciplinary or legal action.

All students must have a permission slip signed by their parents and on file in the high school library to gain access to networked information resources. Additional information and permission slips can be obtained in the high school library.

CAFETERIA The school maintains a modern cafeteria for the serving of school lunches. The cafeteria serves lunches at a reasonable price. The regular lunch price is $2.40 and the reduced lunch price is $.40. Prices for individual items are posted in the cafeteria. The cafeteria operates a computerized accounting system. All money deposited into cafeteria accounts must be placed in the cafeteria envelopes, which are obtained from the cafeteria staff. Deposits for cafeteria accounts will be accepted during activity period daily, or at times designated by the administration. Money deposited into a cafeteria account will not be available for use until the next business day. Money remaining at the end of the school year will transfer to the next school year. Seniors who graduate and students who withdraw from the District will receive a refund if their balance is over $1.00.

The school also offers breakfast at a reasonable price. The regular breakfast price is $1.35 and reduced breakfast price is $.30. Prices for individual items are posted in the cafeteria. Breakfast is served from 7:10 to 7:40. Students wishing to purchase a breakfast should report to the cafeteria during this designated time.

65 Students are permitted to bring a lunch from home. Home lunches must be eaten in the cafeteria.

Our school district participates in the federal free and reduced price lunch program. Students from families that meet financial qualification guidelines will eligible for the program. A full description of the program is published in the local newspaper at the beginning of the school year.

Afterwards all students are given a copy of the income guidelines and an application to take home for parental review. Families must apply each year. Qualifying one year does not automatically carry over from year to year.

When the application is completed and returned, it is reviewed in the office of the Superintendent Telephone: 938-5151. Families not eligible for reduced price lunches are notified. All families will receive an approval or a denial letter in the mail.

To view accounts online for the last 30 days, you can log onto to the Punxsutawney Area School District’s web site at www.punxsy.k12.pa.us and follow the café link to LUNCH ACCOUNTS or visit www.myschoolaccount.com. You will be asked to provide your student’s ID number. After that you will be able to view their detailed statement and be able to make deposits transferred directly into your child’s account from your bank account. There is a small fee for these transactions. To transfer from your bank account, the fee is $2.00 per transfer. These transactions are completely private and secure between you and My School Account.com.

CAFETERIA VOUCHERS Students depleting their cafeteria account will be able to charge up to three meals, but no ala carte items. If an account has a negative balance for more than three meals ($7.20) an alternate meal will be provided. Students will be charged for these meals.

RETURNED CHECK POLICY Any returned checks submitted to the District are subject to a $20.00 service charge. A copy of the check and the District Returned Check Policy will be provided by certified and first class mail. The individual will be given 10 days to make restitution. If the 10-day period elapses without restitution for

66 the check and the service charge, a criminal complaint for bad check writing may be filed with the District Justice’s Office.

CARS AND PARKING REGULATIONS Students who drive a motor vehicle to school must know and obey the following rules: 1. Permission will be granted to students to drive to school for the following reasons: a. Work-release students b. Students who begin work immediately after school and need their vehicle for that purpose. c. Students who are members and active participants in school approved extracurricular activities that meet after school. d. Under special circumstances, permission may be obtained from the office to drive a vehicle to school for short periods of time (i.e.: medical excuses, college visitations, etc.). These students should park in the back parking lot and register their vehicle before 8:05 AM on the proper form located in the cafeteria or the main office. 2. Each student must register their vehicle each school year. Registration blanks may be obtained from the office. 3. Each student must display a parking tag as prescribed for the current year. 4. Each student must park in assigned parking spaces. 5. Students are not permitted to go to parking areas during the day unless permission is granted by the office. 6. When bringing students to school in the morning, or when leaving school, do not use the road immediately in front of the main entrances where the buses load and unload passengers. 7. Pedestrians have the right of way on the parking lot and anywhere on the school grounds.

Cars may be ticketed and fined if permission to use the parking lot is not received from the office.

Violation of the stated regulations and driving behavior that present a hazardous situation may result in an automatic loss of driving privileges on district property, and possibly result in a citation as a traffic violator by the Borough Police Department.

67 WARNING: VEHICLES SUBJECT TO SEARCH Any vehicle entering school property is subject to complete search by school authorities and law enforcement personnel assisting them. Such search may be conducted without warrant for any reasonable purpose. Following notice of intent to search, the vehicle will not be permitted to leave the premises without permission.

WORKING PERMITS The state law requires that every child attend school until he is seventeen years of age unless a General Employment Certificate or a Farm and Domestic Service Permit has been issued. The General Employment Certificate can be issued to a student who is 16 years of age with parental consent and a promise of full-time employment. The Farm and Domestic Permit can be issued to a student who is 15 or 16 years of age only for farm work or formal employment in domestic service. This permit may be issued for a specific and urgent reason as stated by the parent/guardian on the permit. The Vacation Employment Certificate can be issued to a student between the ages of 14 to 18 for employment during hours a minor is not required to attend school, i.e. summer vacation and/or after school.

Students are reminded to observe the following procedure when applying for a work permit: 1. As soon as the student has been promised employment, his parent/guardian is to take his official birth certificate to the High School main office to obtain an Application for Employment Form. The student does not need to accompany the parent/guardian at this time. 2. The Promise of Employment Form must be signed by the parent/guardian, the employer, and the doctor, in that order. 3. The student must return the completed application form to the High School main office in order to obtain the work permit.

TELEPHONE Students may not be called to the telephone during school hours, but important messages will be taken and delivered to them.

Students may use the one pay phone BEFORE SCHOOL, OR AFTER SCHOOL. During the LUNCH PERIODS, students may use the phone in the Cafeteria/Gym lobby. If a student must use the pay phone during school hours, he MUST first have the permission of the Principal and sign up in office. The phones in the office are not for the use of students. There is a two-

68 minute limit on all phone calls. Cell phones may not be used during school hours unless permitted by a principal.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIENCE Act 157 of 2002 amended the school code to require students to recite the Pledge of Allegiance and that a United States flag must be present in each classroom. This legislation allows students to decline reciting the pledge; however, the school district is required to notify parents in writing of their child’s refusal to recite the pledge.

PEST MANAGEMENT POLICY The Punxsutawney Area School District uses an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach for managing insects, rodents, and weeds.

From time to time it may be necessary to use pesticides registered with the Environmental Protection Agency to manage a pest problem. A pesticide will only be used when necessary, and will not be routinely applied. When a pesticide is necessary, the school will try to use the least toxic product that is effective. Applications will be made only when unauthorized persons do not have access to area(s) being treated. Notices will be posted in these areas 72 hours prior to application and for 2 days following the application.

Parents or guardians of students enrolled in the Punxsutawney Area School District may request prior notifications of specific pesticide applications made at the school in which the child attends. To receive notification, you must be placed on the school’s notification registry. To be placed on the registry you must notify the school district in writing and provide a telephone number as to where you can be reached during school hours. Please include your email address if you would like to be notified electronically.

If a pesticide application must be made to control an emergency pest problem, notice will be provided by telephone to any parent or guardian who has requested such notice in writing. Exemptions to this notification include disinfectants and antimicrobial products: self-containerized baits placed in areas not accessible to students and gel type baits places in cracks, crevices or voids.

Questions concerning the Pest Control policy should be directed to Susan Robertson, Business Administrator at 814-938-5151.

69 ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION ACT This act commonly referred to as No Child Left Behind, requires the school district to provide information to parents on the status of each school within the district. The high school will provide the information relevant to the high school through the High School Web-Page or other reasonable means to comply with the requirement. For additional information contact the superintendent’s office at 814-938-5151.

NCLB also requires school districts to provide student directory information to armed services recruiters who are recruiting potential high school graduates. Parents who object to the district providing this information must inform the district in writing. A notice regarding the Privacy rights of Students appears in the PASD calendar annually. For more information contact the high school office at 814-938-5151.

NOTICE OF DISABILITY RIGHTS Students who may require special education are protected by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). All students and other persons with disabilities who are involved with the Punxsutawney Area School District are also protected by two other statutes, regardless of whether they are students receiving special education services. These two statutes are called Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Any person interested in reviewing the federal and state regulations for these statutes may contact Kate Shaffer, Section 504 Coordinator, at (814) 938- 5151 extension 6520. Any person desiring to discuss a problem relating to these laws or to register a complaint or grievance under these laws may contact the same person.

The District is committed to nondiscrimination on the basis of disability. The District does not discriminate on the basis of disability in terms of admissions, access, treatment of individuals, or employment. The definition of disability under Section 504 and the ADA includes persons with "physical or mental impairments that substantially limit a major life activity." The definition of disability also protects those who have a record of such an impairment or are regarded by the District as having such an impairment. The District will identify and evaluate students with disabilities who may need special accommodations in order to receive an appropriate education. The District's evaluations of students under the IDEA will include consideration

70 of whether a student is eligible for special services under Section 504 or the ADA. If there is a problem or disagreement, the District is interested in resolving it informally and locally. Formal grievance and complaint procedures are also available to all those protected by Section 504 and the ADA. Families who are not satisfied that the District is complying with these statutes with respect to individual student issues have a right to an impartial hearing.

SPECIAL EDUCATION

SCREENING AND EVALUATION Punxsutawney Area School District uses the following procedures for allocating; identifying and evaluating specified needs of school-aged students requiring special programs or services. These procedures, as required by law, are as follows:

As identified in §14.121.Child find of Chapter 14 Special Education Services and Programs State Regulations, each school district is required to adopt and use a public outreach awareness system to locate and identify children thought to be eligible for special education within the school district’s jurisdiction. It also requires awareness activities to inform the public of its early intervention and special education services and programs and the manner in which to request services and programs. Written information is published in the Punxsutawney Area School District handbook and is also available on our website.

Punxsutawney Area School District routinely conducts screenings of our student’s hearing in Grades K, 1, 2, 3, 7, 11; visual screenings in Grades K- 12; and speech and language screenings in Grades K-12. Our classroom teachers routinely assess gross motor and fine motor skills. Results of these screenings are noted within the student’s school record. School records are always open and available to parents and only to school officials who have legitimate need-to-know information about the student.

Information from these records is only released to other persons or agencies with appropriate authorization including signed permission by parents/guardians. Parents with concerns regarding their child may contact the building principals to request a screening or evaluation. Requests must be submitted through a written request and forms are available through the school building offices.

71 After the necessary evaluations are completed, an Evaluation Report or Gifted Written Report will be completed. This will be done with parent involvement and includes specific recommendations for the types of interventions needed to meet a child’s specific needs. Parents are invited to participate in a meeting where the results of the evaluation will be reviewed. An Individualized Education Program or Gifted Individualized Education Program will be created to address the specialized services that are needed for those students that are deemed eligible and in need for special education services through the evaluation process.

Punxsutawney Area School District provides annual public notification through various forms such as newspapers and the school district website to notify parents throughout the school district of child identification activities and the procedures followed to ensure confidentiality of information pertaining to students with disabilities or eligible young children.

For more information regarding these procedures, contact: Mrs. Kate Shaffer, Director of Special Education (814-938-5151, Ext. 6520)

CHILD WITH AN EXCEPTIONALITY A child with a disability means a child evaluated in accordance with IDEA §§ 3000.304 through 300.311 as having intellectually disability, hearing impairment (including deafness), speech or language impairment, visual impairment (including blindness), serious emotional disturbance (referred to in this part as “emotional disturbance”), orthopedic impairment, autism, traumatic brain injury, other health impairment, specific learning disability, deaf, blindness, or multiple disabilities, and who, by reason thereof, needs special education and related services.

For children from 3 years to Kindergarten entrance, the Pennsylvania Department of Education Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) operates the preschool early intervention program. OCDEL provides early intervention services through MAWAs (Mutually Agreed Upon Written Arrangements) typically with Intermediate Units or school districts. Legislative and regulatory guidance is provided through IDEA Part B, Pennsylvania’s Act 212, the Early Intervention Services System Act of 1990, Chapter 14, Chapter 16, and the Basic Education Circulars related to early intervention. Regional services and programs are available through Riverview Intermediate Unit #6 including support services such as speech

72 therapy, physical therapy, parent education/supports and other family- centered services assist in child development and may be included in a family’s early intervention program.

DEFININTIONS OF DISABILITY TERMS

Autism: a developmental disability significantly affecting verbal and nonverbal communication and social interaction, generally evident before age three that adversely affects a child’s educational performance. Other characteristics often associated with autism are engagement in repetitive activities and stereotyped movements, resistance to environmental change or change in daily routines, and unusual responses to sensory experiences.

Deaf-blindness: concomitant hearing and visual impairments, the combination of which causes such severe communication and other developmental and educational needs that they cannot be accommodated in special education programs solely for children with deafness or children with blindness.

Deafness: a hearing impairment that is so severe that the child is impaired in processing linguistic information through hearing, with or without amplification that adversely affects a child’s educational performance.

Emotional disturbance: a condition exhibiting one or more of the following characteristics over a long period of time and to a marked degree that adversely affects a child’s educational performance: an inability to learn that cannot be explained by intellectual, sensory, or health factors; an inability to build or maintain satisfactory interpersonal relationships with peers and teachers; inappropriate types of behavior or feelings under normal circumstances; general pervasive mood of unhappiness or depression; and/or a tendency to develop physical systems or fears associated with personal or school problems. Emotional disturbance includes schizophrenia. The term does not apply to children who are socially maladjusted unless it is determined that they have an emotional disturbance as previously explained.

Hearing impairment: an impairment in hearing whether permanent or fluctuating that adversely affects a child’s educational performance but that is not included under the definition of deafness.

73 Intellectual Disability: significantly sub-average general intellectual functioning, existing concurrently with deficits in adaptive behavior and manifested during the developmental period that adversely affects a child’s educational performance.

Multiple disabilities: concomitant impairments (such as intellectual disability-blindness or intellectual disability-orthopedic impairment), the combination of which causes such severe educational needs that they cannot be accommodated in special education programs solely for one of the impairments. Multiple disabilities do not include deaf-blindness.

Orthopedic impairment: a severe orthopedic impairment that adversely affects a child’s educational performance. The term includes impairments caused by a congenital anomaly, impairments caused by disease (e.g., poliomyelitis, bone tuberculosis), and impairments from other causes (e.g., cerebral palsy, amputations, and fractures or burns that cause contractures).

Other health impairments: having limited strength, vitality or alertness, including a heightened alertness to environmental stimuli, that results in limited alertness with respect to the educational environment that is due to chronic or acute health problems such as: asthma, attention deficit disorder or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, diabetes, epilepsy, a heart condition, hemophilia, lead poisoning, leukemia, nephritis, rheumatic fever, sickle cell anemia and Tourette syndrome and adversely affects a child’s educational performance.

Specific learning disability: a disorder in one or more of the basic psychological processes involved in understanding or in using language, spoken or written, that may manifest itself in the imperfect ability to listen, think, speak, read, write, spell or do mathematical calculations, including conditions such as: perceptual disabilities, brain injury, minimal brain dysfunction, dyslexia, and developmental aphasia. Disorders not included include: learning problems that are primarily the result of visual, hearing, or motor disabilities, of intellectual disability, of emotional disturbance or of environmental, cultural, or economic disadvantage.

Speech or language impairment: a communication disorder, such as stuttering, impaired articulation, a language impairment, or a voice impairment that adversely affects a child’s educational performance.

74 Traumatic brain injury: an acquired injury to the brain caused by an external physical force, resulting in total or partial functional disability of psychosocial impairment, or both, that adversely affects a child’s educational performance. Traumatic brain injury applies to open or closed head injuries resulting in impairments in one or more areas, such as: cognition, language, memory, attention, reasoning, abstract thinking, judgment, problem-solving, sensory, perceptual and motor abilities, psychosocial behavior, physical functions, information processing, and speech. Traumatic brain injury does not apply to brain injuries that are congenital or degenerative, or to brain injuries induced by birth trauma.

Visual impairments include blindness: an impairment in vision that, even with correction, adversely affects a child’s educational performance. The term includes both partial sight and blindness.

Gifted: This term includes a person who has an IQ of 130 or higher when multiple criteria as set forth in Chapter 16. Determination of gifted ability will not be based on IQ score alone. Deficits in memory or processing speed, as indicated by testing, cannot be the sole basis upon which a student is determined to be ineligible for gifted special education. A person with an IQ score lower than 130 may be admitted to gifted programs when other educational criteria in the profile of the person strongly indicate gifted ability. Multiple criteria indicating gifted ability include: a year or more above grade achievement level for the normal age group in one or more subjects as measured by Nationally normed and validated achievement tests able to accurately reflect gifted performance; an observed or measured rate of acquisition/retention of new academic content or skills that reflect gifted ability; demonstrated achievement, performance or expertise in one or more academic areas as evidenced by excellence of products, portfolio or research, as well as criterion-referenced team judgment; early and measured use of high level thinking skills, academic creativity, leadership skills, intense academic interest areas, communication skills, foreign language aptitude, or technology expertise; documented, observed, validated or assessed evidence that intervening factors such as English as a second language, disabilities defined in 34 CFR 300.8 (relating to child with a disability), gender or race bias, or socio/cultural deprivation are masking gifted abilities.

75 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION LINKS

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) - a Federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. The law applies to all schools that receive funds under an applicable program of the U.S. Department of Education. http://www.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/ferpa/index.html

Gaskin v. Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) – a lawsuit resulting in mandated changes in some special educational services. As part of the court settlement, PDE is requiring all school districts to share the Notice of Proposed Settlement (Notice) to the parents of students receiving special education services. Parents may access the Notice on the following websites: http://www.pde.state.pa.us/special_edu/cwp/view.asp?a=177&Q=109539

Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEIA) - IDEIA 2004 maintains the basic principles of the law - a free appropriate public education for all students with disabilities, in the least restrictive environment - however, there are many changes and modifications to the IEP process and other aspects of the identification and evaluation of students with disabilities. http://www.pde.state.pa.us/special_edu/cwp/view.asp?a=177&q=111436

Information from the records is released only upon written permission of parents. Parents with concerns regarding their student may contact building principals at any time to request a screening or evaluation of their child. Communication with parents and exceptional students shall be in English or the native language of the parents.

Screening information will be used by an Instructional Support Team within the student’s school to meet his or her specific needs or to document the need for further evaluation. At schools where Instructional Support is not available, the psychologist and teachers will determine if further intervention is needed. If it is determined that a child needs additional services, the Instructional Support Team will make adjustments relative to such things as the child’s learning, behavior, physical environment, and speech strengths and weaknesses in keeping with traditional classroom experiences. If a student does not make progress, parents will be asked to give written permission for a multidisciplinary team evaluation for eligibility and need of special education services.

76 After the evaluation is completed, a Comprehensive Evaluation Report will be compiled with parent input and include specific recommendations for the types of intervention necessary to accommodate the child’s specific needs. Parents are then invited to participate in a meeting where the results of the multidisciplinary evaluation are discussed. An Individualized Education Program (I.E.P.) will be developed for specialized services for the student if the student is eligible and demonstrates a need for services.

The IEP Team with the parent(s) will consist of the following district staff: special education teacher, regular education teacher(s), other teachers or specialists as needed and the LEA representative (a district representative with special education knowledge and the ability to commit district resources so that the child can receive special education services.

Parents are an integral part of the I.E.P. team and are encouraged to be physically present at the I.E.P. meeting. The district will make every effort to insure parent participation. The district will notify the parent in writing, make documented phone calls, and make home visits, if necessary, to make parents aware of the I.E.P. conference and the need for parental participation. Following the preparation of the I.E.P., parents are then presented a Notice of Recommended Educational Placement (NOREP) with which they may agree or disagree. If the parents agree, the program is implemented. If parents disagree with the program being recommended, the issue may be taken to a pre-hearing conference, mediation or a due process hearing.

NOTE: Parent means that person who is the natural or adoptive parent, guardian, or person with whom the child lives, such as a grandparent.

A parent may request that the district initiate a screening or evaluation of a child’s educational needs at any time by contacting the building principal, school psychologists, or Director of Special Education. Information about Early Intervention, parent rights, mediation or Due Process Procedures, specific Special Educational Services and programs offered by the district, and from the district’s Educational Records Policy is available upon request from:

Kate Shaffer, Director of Special Education Punxsutawney Area School District 500 North Findley St. Punxsutawney, PA 15767

77 NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATION

The Punxsutawney Area School District is an equal opportunity education institution and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, or disability in its admission procedures, educational programs, activities, or employment practices as required by Title VI, Title IX and Section 504. For information regarding civil rights or grievance procedures, contact Gerald G. Gigliotti (Title IX Coordinator) at Punxsutawney Area High School, 500 North Findley Street, Punxsutawney, PA 15767. Telephone: (814) 938-5151, ext. 6531 or Kate Shaffer (Section 504 Coordinator) at Punxsutawney Area High School, 500 North Findley Street, Punxsutawney, PA 15767. Telephone: (814) 938-5151, ext. 6520.

ALMA MATER

To you our dear old high school, we raise our eyes, You've caused us many worries and many sighs, To you loyalty still is the song we raise And we'll always recall our high school days, Study is our motto, and we never shirk; And when the time comes around, We know how to work. Dream, dream, dream and forget Cast out useless regret, Love, love our dear old high school; To you we sing.

School Colors RED AND WHITE

School Nickname "CHUCKS"

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