Sanford High School Student Handbook 2019-2020
100 Alumni Boulevard Sanford, ME 04073 High School Phone (207) 324-4050 FAX (207) 490-5152 Guidance Office Phone (207) 324-4712 FAX (207) 490-5152 Sanford Regional Technical Center Phone (207) 324-2942 www.sanford.org
TABLE OF CONTENTS PRINCIPAL’S ADDRESS ...... 5 SANFORD HIGH SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT ...... 6 GUIDING PRINCIPLES ...... 6 CORE VALUES ...... 6 DISTRICT CALENDAR ...... 7 DAILY SCHEDULE ...... 8 PARENT / SCHOOL COMMUNICATIONS ...... 9 ACTIVITIES ...... 10 ATHLETICS ...... 10 STUDENT SPORTS AT SHS ...... 12 EXTRA CURRICULAR ELIGIBILITY RULES ...... 12 SCHOOL COUNSELING ...... 15 CLASS STANDING REQUIREMENTS ...... 16 GRADING STANDARD ...... 17 GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS – GRADES 11 THROUGH 12 ...... 17 REPEAT OF COURSE ...... 18 PRESCRIPTION ...... 19 WEIGHTED GRADES AND CLASS RANK ...... 19 ACCIDENTS ...... 21 ATTENDANCE ...... 21 EXCUSED ABSENCES / TARDINESS ...... 22 TRUANCY ...... 22 DISMISSALS ...... 22 TARDINESS TO SCHOOL ...... 23 TARDINESS TO CLASS ...... 23 CUTTING A CLASS / CLASS ATTENDANCE / UNEXCUSED TARDY ...... 23 EARLY RELEASE AND LATE ARRIVAL ...... 23 BOMB THREATS, FIRE ALARM PULLS, TERRORIZING, AND OTHER ACTS CRIMINAL IN NATURE ...... 24 CLASS DUES ...... 24 COMMUNITY SERVICE ...... 24 DANCE GUIDELINES ...... 25 EMERGENCY AND EVACUATION PROCEDURES ...... 26 GRADUATION AND SENIOR WEEK ...... 26 LIBRARY / MEDIA ...... 27 LUNCH / BREAKFAST ...... 27 OBLIGATIONS ...... 28 TRANSPORTATION AND VEHICLE INFORMATION...... 28 VISITORS ...... 30 FLOOR PLAN ...... 32 PARKING LOT DIAGRAM ...... 34 FACULTY & STAFF ...... 35 STUDENT EXPECTATIONS & CONSEQUENCES ...... 37 TEACHER DETENTION ...... 37 OFFICE DETENTION ...... 37 STUDENT SUCCESS CENTER ...... 37 OUT OF SCHOOL SUSPENSION ...... 38 ASSAULT AND BATTERY / FIGHTING ...... 38 CELL PHONES ...... 39 CHEATING, COPYING, AND PLAGIARIZING ...... 39 DISRUPTING AN ASSEMBLY ...... 39 DRESS CODE ...... 39 FIREARMS, FIREWORKS, DANGEROUS WEAPONS ...... 41 LEAVING SCHOOL BUILDING...... 41 LYING AND FORGERY ...... 41 SCHOOL SAFETY ...... 42 SMOKING / POSSESSION OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS AND PARAPHERNALIA ...... 42 STUDENT SEARCH ...... 42 STUDENT SENT FROM CLASS / UNCOOPERATIVE BEHAVIOR ...... 42
2 THEFT ...... 43 THREATS, INTIMIDATION, HARASSMENT, BIAS, PREJUDICE, SLURS & BULLYING ...... 43 UNCOOPERATIVE BEHAVIOR OUTSIDE OF THE CLASSROOM ...... 43 VANDALISM ...... 43 VULGARITY, OBSCENE LANGUAGE OR PORNOGRAPHY ...... 44 DISTRICT POLICIES ...... 45 GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS ...... 45 ANNUAL FERPA NOTICE ...... 47 STUDENT DISCRIMINATION AND HARASSMENT/SEXUAL HARASSMENT ...... 48 HAZING ...... 49 STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT ...... 49 DRUG AND ALCOHOL USE BY STUDENTS ...... 49 STUDENT DEVICE AND INTERNET USE RULES ...... 50 STUDENT COMPUTER & INTERNET USE ...... 50 TOBACCO USE AND POSSESSION POLICY...... 53 REFERRAL / PRE-REFERRAL ...... 54 QUESTIONING AND SEARCHES OF STUDENTS ...... 55 WEAPONS, VIOLENCE, SCHOOL SAFETY ...... 56 STUDENT ATTENDANCE AND TRUANCY ...... 56 BULLYING/CYBERBULLYING IN SCHOOLS ...... 56 STATE LAWS ...... 57
3 Please note that The Sanford High School Student Handbook is subject to change at any time during the school year. Thank you.
4 Principal's Address To the Students of Sanford High School:
Welcome back! We hope you had a great summer and are ready to return to school another step closer to graduation. As we begin the year at 100 Alumni Boulevard, you will find that we are working to make the new building feel a lot more like home. This brand new facility is something that this community is proud of and we hope you are proud as well. One change for this school year will be the addition of the 8th grade upstairs in the Business pathway. While they will not have classes with you, it will definitely feel like there are more students in the building.
We will continue to use the five-block schedule with Spartan Time this school year. We begin Block 1 at 7:50am daily and excellent attendance is extremely important to your success. Being on-time and in class will ensure your success at Sanford High School. Our school day ends at 2:20pm. Please note on the early release days (Wednesday) that our Block 5 will move to the middle of the day. Spartan Time will continue to be the place where you can get extra help, make up work, keep up on your studies, or get enrichment. Use this time wisely. Personalized Learning Plans (PLP's) will be completed throughout the school year. These lessons are important for you as you determine which career path you want to proceed down after you graduate from High School and once you choose yours, get your post-secondary plan ready.
As we start the school year, please remember that being on time and good attendance are extremely important! Make sure you are up in time for your bus or to get yourself to school in a reasonable amount of time. We do understand that some absences happen due to health reasons or other circumstances but being chronically absent will hurt your studies and hinder your chances of graduating with your class. Research shows that by grade 9, good attendance can predict graduation rates as well as success in career and college!
Get involved! We have so many activities and clubs to participate in here at Sanford High School! We have an excellent staff that is here for you and wants to see you succeed. Do not be afraid to ask questions! Our goal is to prepare every one of you for a successful future. Be proud Sanford Spartans and remember our core values: Responsibility, Respect, Courage, Honesty, and Compassion. Class of 2020, make the most of your school year and have an enjoyable year! Let’s make a great 2019-2020!
Your Principal, Matthew Petermann
5 GENERAL INFORMATION Please note: School administration has the authority to modify student handbook in order to ensure the safety of our Sanford High School community within and around the schoolhouse. Notice of changes will be communicated to students as soon as possible.
In accordance with the Code of Conduct, all faculty and staff will be addressed with a surname of the appropriate Dr., Mr., Mrs., Ms.
SANFORD HIGH SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT Our mission is to use the pathways model to tap into the interests of our students in order to better present an avenue for them to be successful. This changes the way we deliver knowledge to our students, peaks their interests, and creates lifelong learners.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES Standard A. A Clear and Effective Communicator is a student who understands the attributes and techniques that positively impact constructing and conveying meaning for a variety of purposes and through a variety of modes.
Standard B. A Self-Directed and Lifelong Learner is a student who understands the importance of embracing and nurturing a growth mindset.
Standard C. A Creative and Practical Problem Solver is a student who is skilled at selecting and applying a process of problem solving to deepen understanding and determine whether redefining the goal is a better way of addressing a problem situation and continuing to consider other alternative solutions until one resonates as the best one.
Standard D. A Responsible and Involved Citizen is a student who understands the interdependence within and across systems and brings to each situation the appropriate actions.
Standard E. An Integrative and Informed Thinker is a student who is skilled at using complex reasoning processes to make meaning.
CORE VALUES Responsibility - the state of being responsible, accountable, or answerable. A duty, obligation or liability for which someone is held accountable. The obligation to carry forward an assigned task to a successful conclusion.
Respect - means a feeling or show of honor or esteem for someone or something.
Courage - the attitude of facing and dealing with anything recognized as dangerous, difficult, or painful, instead of withdrawing from it; quality of being fearless or brave; valor.
Honesty - the state or quality of being honest; specifically refraining from lying, cheating or stealing; being a truthful, trustworthy, or upright citizen.
Compassion - to have sympathy and want to help a person or people who are going through a difficult time.
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School opens for students at 7:00 a.m. and unless under direct supervision of a staff member or coach, all students must leave the building at 2:45 p.m. (1:40 p.m. on Wednesdays).
8 PARENT-SCHOOL COMMUNICATIONS The Sanford School Department makes staff e-mail available to parents as a service to enhance good communications between school and home. When contacting teachers or other school staff by e-mail, we ask that you observe the following guidelines. E-mail is best used for routine questions, to schedule appointments or to share non- confidential information about your child. Sensitive information is best shared in person or a direct phone call. If an issue is urgent, it is best to contact the office so that it can be addressed quickly. Remember that school staff members have many duties during the school day and many students for whom they are responsible. Generally, staff will respond to e- mails within two school days (if they are not absent). Staff may use preparation periods during the day to respond to parent e-mail and phone messages. If you wish to speak with a staff member during the day, please call the school at 324-4050. The staff member will return your call when they are available. Please do not contact school staff at home. To email a teacher use the first initial of their first name, their entire last name plus @sanford.org.
ACTIVITIES In addition to the many fine programs and courses offered at Sanford High School, there is a broad range of activities, athletic teams, and student organizations that span a multitude of interests intended to extend your education beyond the classroom. We hope we have something that will interest every student at Sanford High School. We encourage you to seize the opportunity to get the most you can out of your high school experience. High school can be more enjoyable if you get involved!
Look through the list below of opportunities displayed in alphabetical order and contact the advisor or coach for more information. If you have a special interest that's not listed, check with your guidance counselor to find out if there are plans to initiate an activity in that area or to find out how you might get a club or organization started. Note: All clubs, activities, student leadership positions, and organizations are subject to co- curricular eligibility rules.
ACTIVITIES, CLUBS, AND ORGANIZATIONS AT SHS Anime Club, Art Club, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Color Guard, Chamber Singers, Civil Rights, Distaff (Yearbook), Drama, Environmental Club, Film Club, French Club, Future Educators of American (FEA), GSTA, Health & Wellness Club, Intramurals, Jazz Band, Key Club, Marching Band, Math Team, Mock Trial, National Honor Society (NHS), Ocean Bowl, Peer Helpers, Pep Band, Pep Club, Sanford Police Cadets, Skills USA, SLAB, Student Council, Youth and Government, Winterguard, Winter Percussion.
This list is not all-inclusive. New clubs are added yearly and if we do not have enough students participating, some clubs may not run.
9 ATHLETICS MISSION STATEMENT FOR ATHLETICS Athletics at Sanford High School play an integral part in the school program. Students have the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of activities that will enhance their educational experience. The sports program is committed to the physical and social development of all who participate.
To be eligible to participate in athletics at Sanford High School, students must meet academic and physical standards described in this guide.
Participation in sports is a privilege; athletes are expected to exhibit the highest level of conduct on and off the field. They must show respect for everyone they come in contact with at Sanford High School: teammates, game officials, opponents, and spectators.
ATHLETIC PROGRAM OBJECTIVES To provide opportunities for physical and social growth. To develop and improve time management skills. To develop and understand the concepts of individual and team play. To develop a sense of commitment, loyalty, cooperation, and fairness. To learn that good sportsmanship means winning and losing with grace and dignity. To learn to make decisions under pressure. To foster city pride.
PHILOSOPHY The athletic program at Sanford High School is an integral part of the total school program. It offers the students the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of activities that enhance the educational experience. The program is committed to the physical and social development of all who participate.
Participation is a privilege that comes with responsibilities for the student athlete, Sanford High School, and the City of Sanford. Athletics at Sanford High School are open to all students who meet and maintain the standards of academic eligibility are good school citizens and meet basic physical health qualifications.
Athletes are expected to exhibit the highest level of conduct both on and off the field and to show respect for everyone they come in contact with at Sanford High School: teammates, game officials, opponents, and spectators. Facilities and school-issued equipment must also be respected.
10 SANFORD HIGH SCHOOL AND THE MAINE PRINCIPAL’S ASSOCIATION SPORTSMANSHIP GUIDE Acceptable Behaviors As fans, we ask that you: Treat opponents the way you would want to be treated at their school. Remember, they are our guests. Use only positive cheers that encourage your team. Encourage injured players. Appreciate and applaud outstanding plays by players on both teams. Learn and understand the rules of the game. Respect game officials. They will make fewer mistakes than the players or coaches from either team. Without them, this game could not be played. Realize that officials, coaches, and players have the courage to display their skills before an often critical public. Remember that praise for a good decision or play is a better motivator than derogatory comments about a poor decision or play. Remember that players are evaluated by coaches; coaches are evaluated by administrators; officials are evaluated by administrators, coaches, and their own official’s organization. A fan’s role is to encourage his/her own team and to enjoy the competition, not to evaluate the players, the coach, or the officials. Remember that the players are amateurs playing for the love of the game, not professionals. Realize that athletics are a part of the educational experience and coaches are teachers. Realize that surveys have shown that the two top reasons high school athletes play sports are to improve their skills and to have fun. Remember that only one team will end the year as state champions. Be welcoming to visitors and not use intimidation to create a home court advantage. Celebrate victory by cheering from the stands and letting the players and coaches celebrate on the playing surface.
Unacceptable Behaviors As fans, we ask that you do not: Use noisemakers (bells, air horns, coin-filled bottles, etc.) Use degrading or taunting language directed at players, officials, coaches or any opponent. Try to disrupt foul shots or penalty shots. Flaunt victory (“warm up the bus,” “scoreboard,” “na-na-na-na . . .hey hey . . . goodbye,” etc.) Remove your shirt. Interrupt games by throwing objects on the court or by entering the playing surface. Commit any act that would embarrass your school, its coaches, or its players. Chant negative, derogatory, or intimidating cheers that demean opponents. Rush onto the playing surface at the end of the game putting players, coaches or other fans at risk for injury.
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At the end of a well-played, hard-fought contest, we hope that the players, coaches and supporters of both teams will leave: Respecting the skill, determination and effort of their opponents. Being proud of their part in the displaying spirit of fair play and sportsmanship. Realizing that while players, coaches and officials are subject to human error, the court or playing field is a classroom that reflects the educational mission of the school and that all of the participants will strive to learn from their mistakes and to improve for the next contest.
ATHLETIC/CO-CURRICULAR/DISTRICT EVENTS Students who attend a district co-curricular event of any kind are expected to conduct themselves as responsible, young adults. All school disciplinary regulations are in full effect at all school events on or off site. In addition, any student fighting, using alcohol, using profane language or causing problems that would interfere with other spectators' enjoyment of the event are subject to the Sanford High School Handbook consequences.
We have a battery of high quality coaches anxious to meet students interested in joining our athletic programs. Athletics is a valuable and important component of your total school program and can prove richly rewarding and fulfilling. We want you to participate! Make sure that you are very familiar with the Eligibility Rules, which appear on the following pages.
STUDENT SPORTS AT SHS Fall Sports Winter Sports Spring Sports Cheerleading Girls Basketball (JV & Varsity) Baseball Coed Cross Country Cheerleading Girls Track & Field Field Hockey (JV & Varsity) Boys Basketball (JV & Varsity) Girls Tennis Football (Fresh, JV, Varsity) Wrestling Boys Track & Field Coed Golf Coed Swimming Softball Boys Soccer (JV & Varsity) Boys Tennis Girls Soccer (JV & Varsity) Girls Lacrosse Volleyball Boys Lacrosse
EXTRACURRICULAR ELIGIBILITY RULES Eligibility for extracurricular activities in the Sanford School System is determined according to a variety of criteria that are standardized for participants of all extracurricular activities sponsored by the Sanford School Department. On that basis, students must meet the following expectations or conditions in order to participate:
Students at the high school must be enrolled in at least eight (8) credits (4 each semester to be considered a full time student) over the school year in order to be considered for participation in extracurricular activities.
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A passing grade is a seventy (70) or above. Eligibility for fall activities will be determined by the fourth quarter grades and grades for the fall will be rechecked two (2) weeks into the school year. Eligibility is checked on the day report cards are issued to the students.
If students fail more than one subject, they are on Academic Probation for the first two weeks of the next ranking period. At the end of the two weeks, their grades will be checked and if they are passing all subjects, they will gain their eligibility back. If they are not passing all subjects, they will remain ineligible for the remaining of the ranking period. During the two week probation period, students will be expected to practice daily but not play in any contests. No scholastic work for which a student has received previous eligibility shall count toward his current or future eligibility. All incompletes will be handled on a case-by-case basis. Summer school credit for subjects failed during the regular school year can be used for eligibility. To be eligible, students are to be in school no later than 8:30 a.m. to the end of the school day on the day of and any day following any event or formal practice session in which they have participated unless excused by a physician or a high school administrator.
NOTE: In the case of Saturday contests, attendance for the full day on Friday in accordance with the above policy is required. The only exception will be medical/personal emergencies, the high school administration or athletic director will request additional information as needed. Students in these extenuating circumstances are expected to attend school for as much of the day as possible.
Exclusion or suspension from school for disciplinary reason shall constitute automatic ineligibility through the period of suspension. Students are not eligible to participate until the first full day of school attendance following the conclusion of their suspension.
Students are eligible for only eight (8) consecutive semesters from the date of entry at grade nine (9). Students are eligible only until age twenty (20), and are ineligible on their twentieth (20th) birthday. Students are ineligible if they have competed under an assumed name (ineligibility, nine (9) weeks).
All participants should ride to and from away contests in transportation supplied by the school. Students may be released by their coach upon written permission of the parent to the coach, athletic director or a high school administrator. Consequences regarding the use of substances: This system would take place over your four (4) years of participation in extracurricular activities at Sanford High School. You would not start fresh at the
13 beginning of each school year. This is a cumulative system.
Any student that is involved in or in the presence of any illegal activity, the consumption, sale, distribution or possession of drugs, alcohol, drug paraphernalia or other illegal or unauthorized drugs he/she shall be immediately suspended in accordance with the following procedure:
1st Offense: Fourteen (14) days from the club and/or organization they are participating in at that time, with at least a minimum suspension of one game. He/she will be able to practice but not participate in any competition during the time of suspension. This will carry over from season to season and year to year. Should the suspension carry over from one season to the next he/she would be able to try out and participate in practice until the suspension is over.
2nd Offense: Thirty days (30) days from the club and/or organization they are participating in at that time. He/she will be able to practice but not participate in any competition during this time of suspension. This will carry over from season to season and year to year. Should the suspension carry over from one season to the next he/she would be able to try out and participate in practice until the suspension is over.
3rd Offense: One (1) year to the date of suspension. However, at the end of six (6) months, he/she will have the opportunity to come before the Athletic Director, Director of School Counseling, and one Assistant Principal. He/she will have the opportunity to discuss what he/she has done during this time of suspension. This board will have the authority to lessen the year-to-date consequence if they feel there has been improvement with the student.
4th Offense: Ineligibility for all extrac urricular activities for the remainder of the student’s high school career.
The use of any tobacco, including any smokeless or electronic tobacco: First Offense: A warning Second Offense: One Game suspension Third Offense: Removal from the sport they are participating in for the remainder of the season.
Sundays are excluded as days counted towards the suspension. Sundays are not play dates as mandated by the Maine Principal’s Association.
Any violations of team rules that justify dismissal from an athletic team will be the responsibility of the varsity coach.
Any violation of town, county, state or federal laws or statutes may be cause for suspension and/or dismissal from the team and/or organization that the student may be
14 participating in at that time.
A student may appeal any decision regarding rules and policies to the principal and then the superintendent.
Attendance at all games and practices is mandatory unless prior approval is obtained from the coach of that team. A student may not change sports during any season.
If you make a team and then quit that team or you are released for disciplinary reasons before the end of that season, you relinquish your privilege to participate for another team in that same season.
In the Sanford Athletic Department physicals are required for participation. Physicals are good for two years from the date of the physical.
Athletes may not compete for two different teams at SHS in the same sport season. SHS strictly supports and abides by the M.P.A. Bona Fide Team Rules.
SCHOOL COUNSELING WWW.SANFORD.ORG/SHSGUIDANCE School counselors provide assistance to students, parents, teachers and administrators with any issue impacting student experience and/or performance at Sanford High School. From course changes to social and personal challenges, the SHS School Counseling Department directive is to help. Counselors are also able to refer to the many agencies and assistance programs available to Sanford residents. Assistance with post-graduation planning is also a school counseling department priority. Whether it’s entering the work force, a two or four-year college, or enlisting the military, school counselors will provide support and assistance for all SHS students.
Here is a list of some of the issues counselors can assist with: Assessing strengths and identification of areas needing improvement How to make appropriate and suitable decisions Reinforcing or developing a positive attitude Working through personal problems Developing conflict-resolution strategies Developing personal, educational and/or career goals Choosing the most appropriate courses for individual student goals Developing educational plans Making appropriate career decisions.
Counselors are assigned to students according to year of graduation, last name, and whether or not they are in a Technical Center program. Please call 324-4712 for specific counselor assignments. Counselors serve students based on last name. Please see the School
15 Counseling office or Infinite Campus to learn who your specific School Counselor is.
Students can make appointments with their counselor before and after school and/or during lunch—instead of missing valuable class time. Students with emergencies can be seen at any time during the school day. Parents can make appointments by calling 324-4712.
The SHS School Counseling Office is using the app REMIND. It is a way for us to communicate regarding ongoing and upcoming activities, events, and deadlines. The app is free. To sign up you have a few options: Text this number: 81010 With this message: @e2862e or by using this link remind.com/join/e2862e
GUIDANCE ON-LINE 24/7 The updated SHS guidance web site has lots of useful information and links including emergency and hot- line numbers, community resources, email links to the counselors, study tips, scholarship info and MUCH more. Visit https://www.sanford.org/o/sanford-high- school/page/guidance--112 today and note the extensive list of specific pages on the right side of the page. Please send any feedback regarding our website or the guidance department to [email protected]
CLASS STANDING REQUIREMENTS A student’s class standing is determined by the number of years he/she is enrolled at an accredited high school. Students who have been enrolled for less than a year, or not at all, will be considered freshmen. Students with one year completed will be considered sophomores and those with two years will be considered juniors. The only exception is senior status. In order to become a senior a student must have earned 16 credits. All credits will be reviewed at the end of each semester. The final determination will be made the Director of School Counseling upon the recommendation of the high school counselor.
PROGRESS REPORTS / REPORT CARDS Progress reports are available online approximately midway through each 9 week ranking period in order to alert student and parent of the possibility of course failure and to identify the reasons for that situation. The expectation is that the student will then take corrective action to rectify the situation. Teachers need not limit the use of progress reports purely to warn of possible failure. Announcing a student’s progress and noting particular accomplishment is encouraged as well. Student grades are reported numerically.
16 GRADING STANDARD All courses undertaken at Sanford High School must receive grades. The grading standard for all students at Sanford High School is as follows: A+ 4.3 99-100 C+ 2.3 83-84 F .00 Below 70 A 4.0 96-98 C 2.0 80-82 A- 3.7 93-95 C- 1.7 77-79 P- No factorable B+ 3.3 91-92 D+ 1.3 75-76 unitWP- No factorable B 3.0 88-90 D 1.0 73-74 unitWF- No factorable B- 2.7 85-87 D- 0.7 70-72 unitINC -No factorable Note: If a student withdraws from a course after the first markingunit period ends, the student’s record will reflect a “W” along with the grade earned up to the date of withdrawal from the course.
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS GRADES 9-12 A minimum of twenty-five (25) credits is required for graduation from Sanford High School.
Of the 25 total credits required for graduation, many are considered “core” or mandatory credits. The remaining credits are comprised of elective classes or experiences. Core requirements for all students include successful completion of the following: Subject Credits/Experience Required for Graduation CPR/AED 1 experience – Met in Health A, Health Occupations, Emergency Medical Services English (ELA) 5 credits (At least 1 English experience is required each year) *Financial Literacy 1 experience starting with the class of 2021 **Fine Arts 1 credit Health .5 credit Math 3 credits (At least 1 Math experience (#) is required each year) Physical Education 1 credit Science 3 credits (At least 1 Science experience (&) is required each year) Social Studies 3 credits (At least 1 Social Studies experience is required each year) Elective Classes 8.5 credits Symbols and Asterisks (*) please see below. A minimum of twenty (20) hours of documented community service is also required for graduation from Sanford High School.
Note: Students enrolled in a full-year program must complete both semesters to earn credit and to meet the graduation requirement. No credit will be awarded for any withdrawal from a yearlong course.
Starting with the Class of 2022, a minimum of twenty-five (25) credits is still required but adds a Financial Literacy course for graduation from Sanford High School.
17 *Satisfies Financial Literacy Requirement **Satisfies Fine Art Requirement (cont.) 488 Personal Finance 416 Sculpture 752/751 Video Production (SRTC) **Satisfies Fine Art Requirement 096 Yearbook Production (Semester 1) 425 2-D Art 446 Drama 420/421/422/423 Art 1,2,3,4 431/430/432/444 Band #Satisfies Math experience 442 Beginning Guitar 722S/721S Engineering Apps. w/Robotics 418 Ceramic Studio 717S/716S Engineering/Architectural Design 433/437/436/443 Chorus 747S/746S Precision Machining 768/762 Culinary Arts I & II (SRTC) 486 Culinary Arts (SHS) &Satisfies Science experience 761/734 Digital Design (SRTC) 789B/790B Cosmetology 402 Drawing 773S/778S Electrical Wiring 722/721 Engineering Applications (SRTC) 770H/765H Emergency Medical Services 482 Fashion Design & Merchandising 722S/721S Engineering Apps. w/Robotics 485 Home Environments & Design 766H/767H Fire Science 434/435 Music Keyboarding 731H/732H Health Occupations 417 Painting 737B/736B Landscaping and Horticulture 429 Photography
HONOR ROLL Honor roll distinction provides us with the opportunity to recognize and applaud the consistent effort and high achievement of individual students. Honor roll status is determined at the end of each marking period according to the following standards:
High Honors: All grades 93 or above Honors: An average of 87 or above with no grades below 85 Honorable Mention: An average of 85 or better allowing only one grade between 84 and 77 Note: A student must carry a minimum of eight (8) full-time subjects over two (2) semesters (four (4) credits per semester) in order to qualify as a full-time student and to be eligible for honor roll consideration, unless prior approval is granted by the administration.
REPEAT OF COURSE High School policy DOES NOT permit a student to repeat a Sanford High School course unless the student received a final grade of F/WF/WP. Courses may not be repeated for the purpose of earning a higher grade. All freshmen, sophomores, and juniors who fail (F) core courses (English, science, social studies, math, and health) must repeat those courses through a prescription or during summer school if these programs are available. Some courses may be excluded from this policy therefore the students would repeat the course during the regular school day.
18 PRESCRIPTION Our Prescription program is a limited-time opportunity for students to recover credit for core courses that they failed—in lieu of repeating the entire course. Students who failed a Sanford HS core course with a grade of 60 to 69, and took the final exam are eligible. The teacher of the failed class will create a prescription with the specific learning targets to be met. The student will then work on those targets during Extended School. Students who do not complete their prescription during the next Extended School session will need to repeat the entire course unless extenuating circumstances exists and is approved by the Extended School administrator.
SUMMER SCHOOL PROGRAM Summer School, if offered, is held in July/August.
SCHEDULE CHANGES Schedule changes can be made through the first week of a semester during Add/Drop. After that time, schedule changes will be made only under certain conditions: When credits earned at summer school impact schedule. When a scheduling conflict exists. When a formal request by a parent is received and approved. When a change is requested and/or approved by school personnel. Note: Classes may be added as available slots permit.
WEIGHTED GRADES AND CLASS RANK All courses taken at SHS and SRTC are weighted and calculated in class rank. Below, find the course weight designations and course descriptors.
WEIGHTING AP 1.30 HON 1.20 CCP 1.10 A 1.00
Sanford High School Course Descriptors Applied (A) - A curriculum that allows students to acquire basic proficiency in all content areas and 21st Century Skills. These courses are designed to educate the student to become diploma ready.
College/Career Prep (CCP) - A curriculum that allows students to acquire proficiency in all content areas and 21st Century Skills. These courses will prepare students for either college or career.
Honors (H) - A curriculum that allows students to acquire proficiency in all content areas and 21st Century Skills. The pace of these course offerings, along with in depth examination of text, provides students with a deeper level of understanding of topics. Participation in
19 honors classes offer opportunities for students to exceed standards.
Advanced Placement (AP) – Advanced Placement courses are college level courses designed by the College Board. The curriculum is based on rigorous in-depth study of complex text and an accelerated pace of instruction.
SCHOOL COUNSELING SERVICES The school counseling office provides many services to students at Sanford High School. Information concerning college selection and financial aid, careers, occupational training, and military service is readily available. In addition, a school counselor is always available to meet with his/her counselee and/or parents to help and guide students in the proper selection of subjects and other problem areas. Questions pertaining to course selection, course changes and any phase of a high school career scheduling should be directed to the counselor by the student and his/her parents. Students are encouraged to make appointments with their counselor before and after school, during study halls and during lunch. A student will be seen at any time on an emergency basis. In addition, evening hours are available during the extremely busy periods of the year.
ON THE PERSONAL SIDE Your school counselor is here to help you maximize your strengths and develop strategies to improve upon your weaknesses. They can help you: Assess your strengths and identify areas for improvement Make appropriate and suitable decisions Reinforce or develop a positive attitude Work out personal problems Develop conflict-resolution strategies Choose courses that are most appropriate for you Develop personal, educational and career goals Develop educational plans Make sound career decisions.
School counselors are available to work with students on a one-to-one basis, in small groups, or in larger informational groups. The counselors are regularly available for consultation between the school hours of 7:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Special appointment can also be arranged in cooperation with your counselor. To make an individual appointment with your counselor or to use other resources available in the guidance office: Go to the school office before or after school, schedule an appointment with the school counseling secretary, and obtain an appointment slip from her. Schedule appointments during your study hall, or for before or after school. In an emergency situation, go directly to the guidance office. Evening appointments are available according to school counseling department scheduled availability.
20 Other special appointments may also be arranged with your counselor. We ask that you try to schedule a parent conference at least two days in advance whenever possible. If a parent conference is not possible during our normal business hours, your counselor can arrange a later, mutually convenient time with your parents.
ON THE CAREER SIDE Whether your goal is to enter the work force when you graduate, go on to a four-year college or university, enroll in a technical college program or join the military, your guidance counselor has invaluable information for you in each of these areas. It is important to begin discussion with your counselor concerning your goals early in your freshman year. Your counselor undoubtedly will have a variety of alternatives to talk about with you, and early planning can be important. Your counselor also can help you explore the variety of quality technical programs offered at the Sanford Regional Technical Center. Semester offerings are available for freshman and sophomore students; full technical programs are available to qualifying junior and senior students. Your Program of Studies booklet will provide you with further information regarding available programs.
ACCIDENTS If you are directly involved in an accident, observe, or hear about an accident, you must report the accident immediately to the teacher in charge, coach, assistant principal or principal. Cuts, slips, trips, falls, car accidents or accidental building damage should be reported.
ATTENDANCE The Sanford School District, high school administration, faculty and staff believe that student attendance at school is critical to academic success. Research studies conducted by the US Department of Education and The Maine Department of Education support this claim. Students with high attendance rates are often linked to better student achievement. Chronic absence has shown a significant reduction in literacy skill, which often times leaves students behind grade level in reading and writing skills. Students are expected and encouraged to attend school every day.
Our attendance policy is designed to provide students with the resources and support necessary to achieve success. When a student is absent, gaps in knowledge gained are created. The attendance policy provides multiple remedies for the student to gain the understanding and comprehend knowledge lost due to absence. We require that missing work due to tardiness, absence or truancy be made up. It is to the individual classroom teacher’s discretion as to how much work is required to make up for work missed during class time.
ATTENDANCE INFORMATION Absence is defined as not being present for a portion of, or an entire school day. If a student is absent he or she may not participate in any co-curricular events on the day of the absence unless excused by a physician or an administrator (refer to the index for complete explanation under eligibility guidelines).
ABSENT FROM SCHOOL A parent or legal guardian must contact the school pertaining to each absence by forwarding a signed and dated note indicating the date(s) and reason(s) for the absence or by contacting the school in person or by phone. Parents are encouraged to contact the school the morning of the absence, but MUST be made no later than 24 hours after the student returns to school. If contact by a parent or legal guardian is not made, the student will be considered unexcused absent and subject to disciplinary action.
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ABSENCES All absences are classified as excused, unexcused or truant. Students who arrive to school after 7:50 or after an absence MUST report to the main office before going to class.
EXCUSED ABSENCES/TARDINESS According to Maine Law, a person’s absence is excused when the absence is for the following reasons: Personal illness. An appointment with a health professional that must be made during the regular school day. Observance of a recognized religious holiday when the observance is required during the regular school day. A family emergency/bereavement. A planned absence for a personal or educational purpose which has been approved. - Examples of excused absences would include: dismissal by school nurse, verified medical a n d dental appointments, death or serious illness in the immediate family, suspensions, driver examinations, school sponsored field trips and any absence previously approved by the administration.
TRUANCY Definition Under Maine law, a student is habitually truant if he/she: 1. Is subject to the compulsory attendance law; and 2. Has the equivalent of 10 full days of unexcused absences, or 7 consecutive school days of unexcused absences during a school year. See Student Attendance and Truancy policy JED in the Appendix.
DISMISSALS Students may be dismissed from school for medical and dental appointments and other such personal business that cannot be conducted on non-school time. In order to be dismissed: A student must present a written request from a parent or guardian to the main office before 7:50 a.m. on the day of the dismissal. Requests will be verified by phone at the discretion of the school staff or assistant principal. Phone dismissals will not be accepted. Emergency dismissals will be handled by the school nurse or the main office administrators. The student must present the dismissal slip for approved dismissals to the classroom teacher at the time of dismissal. The teacher will sign the dismissal slip, and the student must come to the main office to present the signed dismissal slip and sign out.
EMERGENCY DISMISSALS Emergency dismissals are handled by the school nurse or school administration on a case by case basis.
In all cases of absence, school officials may request verification of circumstances if deemed appropriate.
MAKE-UP WORK Due to a student not being present in class, a student will meet with the teacher and be responsible for the following: Any classroom and/or assigned work that was given out on the day of absence will be made up for the full-earned grade within the time frame established by the teacher. It is the teacher’s prerogative to require a student to stay after school for work missed or for required extra help. Any additional work assigned by the classroom teacher needs to be done on the student’s own time. Students on out-of-school suspension should request to have work within 24 hours from their suspension.
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TARDINESS TO SCHOOL School is considered a place of business. Students are expected to arrive on time each day. School start time is 7:50am each day. Once in school, students are also expected to arrive on time to each class. A student who arrives to school after 7:50am is considered tardy and must report to the main office. Unless the student’s parent or legal guardian has called, sent a note or personally delivered a valid explanation within 24 hours, the student will be considered tardy unexcused.
Students who are tardy with a pass from a teacher, staff member or administrator are excused. Chronic tardiness to class should be referred to an assistant principal. 1st Offense: Warning 2nd Offense: One (1) Office detention 3rd Offense: Two (2) Office detention 4th Offense: One (1) day ISS *** teachers have the right to assign academic DT’s for any and all unexcused tardies, cut classes or unexcused absences on top of ODT’s and ESD’s
TARDINESS TO CLASS The classroom teacher will handle tardiness to class. At the teacher’s discretion, students who are tardy to class without acceptable reason will be told to report to the teacher’s classroom after school for detention according to the teacher’s classroom policy. Students who are tardy with a pass from a teacher or other staff member are excused. Instances of chronic tardiness to class should be referred to the assistant principal for resolution. If you will be tardy because of another teacher, please ask for a pass. 1st Offense: One (1) Teacher detention 2nd Offense: One (1) Office detention 3rd Offense: Two (2) Office detention 4th Offense: One (1) day ISS
CUTTING A CLASS/CLASS ATTENDANCE/TARDINESS OF 15 MINUTES OR MORE Students are expected to attend all assigned classes. 1st Offense: One (1) teacher detention assigned by the teacher 2nd Offense: One (1) Office detention 3rd Offense: Two (2) Office detention 4th Offense: One (1) day ISS
ARRIVING EARLY AT SCHOOL If you arrive at school prior to 7:20 a.m., you must go directly to the cafeteria. Note: the building is not open until 7:00 a.m. for students. At 7:45 a.m. students should follow the regular bell schedule. Once you arrive on school property, you may not leave unless you have written permission from an administrator.
EARLY RELEASE AND LATE ARRIVAL Early release and late arrival are available only to juniors and seniors according to the following procedural guidelines: Early release and late arrival privileges are granted on a semester basis. Early release and late arrival forms explaining all conditions that accompany this privilege are issued at beginning of each semester. Course withdrawal may affect a request. Students who have late arrival and are going to be absent must call the main office between 7:00 and 7:50 a.m. on that school day or forfeit late arrival privilege.
23 On any particular day, if you arrive before 9 a.m. or choose not to be released early, you must be assigned to a teacher. Administration reserves the right to revoke this privilege upon information of poor student behavior.
BOMB THREATS, FIRE ALARM PULLS, TERRORIZING, & OTHER ACTS CRIMINAL IN NATURE Students who make bomb threats, false fire alarms, or other attempts to disrupt, harass, intimidate or jeopardize the safety of the student body, faculty and/or staff at Sanford High School may be suspended and/or recommended for expulsion.
The administration, faculty, and staff at Sanford High School will not tolerate, support, or defend criminal behavior, and will work cooperatively with all law enforcement agencies to prosecute against all those individuals who disrupt the educational climate for our students and staff.
CLASS DUES Class dues are a one-time payment that funds the senior graduation week festivities, prom, and other events during the four years of High School. If paid during their freshmen year the dues are $35. An additional $10 is added each year if the dues are not paid during their freshmen year (i.e.) $45 sophomore year, $55 junior year, and $65 senior year. A student who has not paid his/her class dues will not be allowed to attend senior activities
COMMUNITY SERVICE Community service is defined as “A service that is performed for the benefit of the public or its institutions.” You must complete at least 20 hours of community service by the time you graduate. It is to your advantage that you begin your hours as soon as possible. If you are unsure about any projects or assignments, make sure to check with the Main Office for ongoing community service activities.
What is Considered Community Service? Community Service is served for any non-profit organization. It entails any volunteer work for the disabled or temporarily ill people. The point of community service is to help someone or an organization that needs the help or physically cannot do the task. All community service projects must be done after school hours and during your free time.
What are Acceptable Activities? Volunteer at a local animal shelter. Help your teacher during student-led conferences with appointments, food, check-in. Working for the soup kitchen. Helping the food pantry stock food. Volunteer at a local thrift store (Goodwill, Salvation Army) Help tutor an elementary student. Reading to younger elementary students of your favorite teacher. You may help run the BINGO at a local nursing home. Volunteer for any food or bottle drive that are non-profit. Babysit at the Rec. Department or YMCA on any weekend/vacation. Shoveling snow for the elderly that are physically unable. Helping with maintenance at the high school (example: cleaning, painting, stacking chairs, picking up trash) Help custodians with any extra work. Donate blood at a blood drive. Volunteer at a local hospital. Volunteer for any local election (town, state, national)
24 *These are a few acceptable activities in terms of community service. You are encouraged to use your imagination in a creative way because the list is endless. If you have any questions regarding community service, please feel free to contact the Main Office. There is a wide range of opportunities available to you and be sure to check announcement and ongoing activities.
What isn’t considered Community Service? ** There are many different things that may strike you as community service, but it is always good to check with an advisor or the Main Office for qualifications. Community service is provided to your community and although your family may be part of it, they are not community service. Family and friends are personal relationships that are NOT examples of community service. It should not be served for someone that is capable of executing the work or paying for it. Examples of unacceptable community service is as follows: Baby-sitting for anyone related to you or anyone you know personally. Doing chores at your house. Cleaning a relative’s house/yard. Raking leaves for your grandparents. Shoveling a neighbor’s driveway. Walking a friend’s dog. Stacking wood for a family member. Helping your friend’s mom move into a new house. Tutoring a student at an elementary school during your scheduled classes. Helping a neighbor clean their garage. Moving things down from a friend’s attic. **All of these examples are unacceptable in terms of Community Service. These are friendly gestures and favors done for those close to you. If may seem helpful for them, but that isn’t what Community Service is directed around. Any of these examples will not be passed as Community Service in order to graduate. Students should begin to fulfill this requirement as early as your freshman year. Don't wait until the last minute! Come to the main office and request more information about the variety of community service needs that will help you fulfill this requirement while you help individuals among the Sanford community.
DANCE GUIDELINES 1. The list of chaperones for a dance must be submitted to an assistant principal by the Tuesday prior to the scheduled dance. Chaperones will be informed of the guidelines for high school dances and will meet briefly with police before the admission of students to review regulations and establish assignments. 2. Police and chaperones will be on hand 15 minutes before doors open. 3. Student admission will be only by a current picture ID issued by Sanford High School. Police and chaperones will check ID’s at the door. 4. Guests must complete an “SHS Dance Guest Application.” Guests will be admitted only if their names appear on a pre-approved guest list and are accompanied by the sponsoring student. The guest must also be a high school student in good standing. This must be completed by the Thursday before the dance. 5. An up-to-date list of approved guests will be provided to the chaperones by the school administration. 6. Students must check all outer garments in the lobby. 7. Admission ends one hour after dance begins unless the principal or assistant principal grants an exception. 8. There is no re-admission once a student leaves the building. 9. The doors are to remain closed throughout the dance. Chaperones will be posted on a rotating basis at every exit leading directly outside the building. 10. Students opening any door to allow illegal entry will be excluded from the dance immediately and will also be excluded from future dances. 11. Smoking is not allowed at any school function. 12. Consumption of alcoholic beverages by students, musicians, disc jockeys, etc. during the activity is prohibited. Students in possession of or under the influence of drugs or alcoholic beverages will be immediately excluded from the activity. Violations will result in disciplinary action by the school administration as per the Sanford High School guidelines for drug and alcohol abuse. 13. Advisors and sponsors may request a student to leave the activity. If the student does not leave, the
25 police are to take over. Police may initiate this action when necessary. Names of disruptive students will be turned over to the chaperone and to the assistant principal for disciplinary action. 14. Any acts of misconduct may mean that the lights will be fully on for the remainder of the dance. Chaperones and police have authority to close a dance if they feel conditions warrant such action. 15. Bleachers and balconies are off limits to students during the dance. 16. Students who publicly engage in any inappropriate display of affection will be asked to leave and may be prohibited from future dances. 17. Students must attend school on the day of the dance or the day before a dance if the dance is on a Saturday.
EMERGENCY & EVACUATION PROCEDURE It is essential that each individual in the school building knows and strictly follows our evacuation procedure in the event of an emergency so that we can ensure a fast, orderly and safe evacuation from the school building. Make sure that you learn exactly what our emergency and evacuation procedures are: 1. Walk out the appropriate fire exit or area designated by administration or faculty quickly and in an orderly fashion. DO NOT go to lockers or anywhere except directly outside the building. The only items you should have in your possession are a key and your SHS ID card, and any other pocket items. Walk completely away from the building according to your teacher's instructions and remain there with your class. a) Make yourself familiar with all emergency exits. b) In the event that an exit is blocked, go to the next available exit (or to the exit to which you are immediately directed by a school or fire official in the vicinity of the blocked exit). Note: All students must return to the building in the case of a fire drill.
CLEAR THE HALLS Definition: Clear the Halls is used in the building to indicate a need for security in the building requiring reduced movement. Protocol: An Announcement will be made over the intercom: “Students and Staff, CLEAR THE HALLS.” Students must report immediately to their classrooms. Classrooms outside should remain outside.
LOCKDOWN, SECURE THE BUILDING Definition: No movement within the building. We will not switch classes. Students are to remain in the classroom with their teacher for the duration. Students should remain calm. Protocol: An announcement will be made over the intercom: “Students and Staff, SECURE THE BUILDING.” Students MUST IMMEDIATELY enter the NEAREST CLASSROOM. Report your name to the teacher and wait for further instruction. Students in the cafeteria must remain there and await directions. Note: These procedures will be practiced.
FOOD Food will be allowed in classrooms at the teacher’s discretion.
GRADUATION AND SENIOR WEEK Students who have met the graduation requirements earn a diploma, however, participating in the graduation ceremony and senior week activities is a privilege. Seniors who are in good standing for graduation are eligible for participation in Senior Week activities and Project Graduation. School designated attire is required in order to participate in these activities. This attire includes collared shirts, ties, dress shoes, and dress pants/khakis for our male students for seniors awards night, senior banquet, and graduation. For our female students the attire is semi formal for senior awards night and senior banquet and for graduation it is white or light colored dress or dress pants along with white or light colored sandals. Graduation caps and gowns are purchased directly from Jostens on the day before graduation for approximately $25, which must be paid for in cash. These will be ordered during a fall assembly with the Jostens Rep.. Male students will wear red caps and gowns and the female students will wear white caps and gowns, which may not be altered in appearance.
26 Marching practice is required for those wishing to participate in the graduation ceremony and is held in the mornings the four days prior to graduation day and graduation day itself. A school administrator must approve all absences prior to practice. Students who are unexcused absent or tardy to practice will be asked to leave and set up a meeting with the principal prior to returning to practice. If a student is absent or tardy multiple times, they will lose the privilege to participate in graduations week activities and graduation ceremony.
LIBRARY/MEDIA The library is an important part of the school community. It provides a variety of resources for student and staff learning and enrichment. The library is open all day from 7:35 a.m. to 2:20 p.m. except Friday, when it closes at 2:20 p.m.
Resources include books (print & digital), magazines, newspapers, DVDs, access to subject specific databases and a video streaming service. Students interested in volunteering as library aides should see the librarian.
GUIDELINES Students must have a pass from a classroom teacher to enter the library. Students in the library on a pass must ask a librarian for a pass to leave the library for any reason. Any student leaving the library without a pass will be sent back to the classroom and the teacher notified. Eating is not permitted and only bottled water is allowed. All students will remain seated until the bell rings at the end of the block. The librarians support and enforce school-wide guidelines and policies. Disciplinary referrals from the librarians to the assistant principal will be dealt with according to school rules and regulations.
BOOK & MAGAZINE CIRCULATION Books: all books may circulate for 14 school days Magazines: all magazines circulate for 5 school days
SERVICES Whole class and/or 1-1 information literacy instruction Curriculum material support Unit/assignment collaboration Readers advisory Annotated bibliographies
LUNCH/BREAKFAST Application forms for free and reduced price lunches are available at any time during the school year from the main office. The lunch schedule will be read over the intercom for the first few days. Students must follow all cafeteria/lunch block guidelines: All cafeteria meals must be consumed in the cafeteria. All students are responsible for returning their trays to the kitchen and are expected to leave tables, chairs and floors clean. Unruly or disruptive behavior will result in disciplinary action commensurate with the inappropriate behavior and in accordance with school policy. Students may not report to lockers in any corridor during lunch. Students may not report to any area during lunch except the cafeteria. All other locations are off limits during lunch. Permission to leave the café will be granted by an administrator or by teacher pass only. Students who violate school rules while at lunch, may lose the privilege of eating in the cafeteria, in addition to other disciplinary action in accordance with the SHS Handbook. Students may be required to clean the cafeteria as part of their consequences for inappropriate behavior.
27 Students who display inappropriate behavior (to include throwing objects) in the cafeteria may be suspended. The length of the suspension will be left to the discretion of the administrator.
School Meal Prices are as follows:
Breakfast $1.00 $.00 (reduced) Lunch $3.00 $.00 (reduced)
NURSE The nurse's office is located just beyond the main office. A student who needs to see the nurse during the school day must obtain a pass from the classroom teacher. The nurse is available from 7:35 a.m. to 2:20 p.m. daily.
OBLIGATIONS A student must return or pay for all school property issued prior to graduation. Student academic transcripts will not be released until all obligations are met. Senior students who do not meet their obligations will not participate in senior activities including graduation exercises.
PASSES Official school passes with student name, date, and destination are required for all student traffic in the building except before and after school and when passing between classes or to a scheduled lunch. All passes must be returned to the issuing teacher. Passes are limited to 5 minutes per visit. Students who are found in the corridors without a pass or who report to a destination other than the one indicated on the pass may be assigned office detention. Failure to report to the destination indicated on the pass could result in the consequence for cutting a class, lying, or other rule violation depending upon the nature of the situation. Abuse of the corridor pass privilege will result in the loss of that privilege for a period of time to be determined by the assistant principal in accordance with school policy.
TRANSPORTATION AND VEHICLE INFORMATION AUTOMOBILES (CARS AND OTHER VEHICLES) Due to a limited amount of space, on campus parking is a privilege extended first to senior students at Sanford High School, and then to junior students. After first semester, if parking spaces are still available, Sophomores earning High Honors, Honors, or Honorable Mention may purchase a parking permit. Be reminded that when students are permitted to park on school premises it is a matter of privilege, not of right. School personnel may conduct routine patrols of student parking lots and inspections of student automobiles when on school property. The interior and exterior of a student automobile may be searched when a school authority has reason to believe that illegal or unauthorized drugs, weapons, or other contraband are within or upon the vehicle. Such searches may be conducted without notice, without consent, and without a search warrant. Students who drive automobiles or motorcycles to school must apply for and receive permission from the administration. Eligible students will receive a parking permit at a cost of $10.00. This permit will allow them to park in the student lot.
Note that: All-terrain wheel vehicles, motorized scooters, pocket rockets or pocket bikes are not allowed on campus. Only registered motorized vehicles or bicycles are allowed on school property. Juniors and seniors who are good citizens and are in good standing with the school will be
28 granted approval to bring a vehicle on campus, depending on availability. Students will lose their parking privilege as a consequence for serious violation of school rules. Remember the importance of individual responsibility for the safety of everyone at Sanford High School and observe our driving and parking guidelines most carefully. ***Failure to accept this responsibility will result in the revocation of your on-campus vehicle privilege.
CAMPUS VEHICLE REGULATIONS Unauthorized areas – visitor parking spaces, faculty parking areas and in the rear of the building. All grassy areas and areas marked reserved including handicap parking are all off limits to student vehicles. Students in need of special parking arrangements need to see an administrator before permission will be granted. Observe the 15-mph campus speed limit at all times. Respect all One Way routes at all times. Park only in designated student areas and use only one parking space. Do not block any vehicle at any time. Student permits are not transferable. Violations will result in loss of permit. Student vehicles must not be driven off campus during the school day without prior permission from the main office staff. Students are not permitted to be in or around vehicles, neither their own nor a vehicle belonging to another, at any time during the school day. Parking permits must be visible at all times. Vehicles must be operated in a responsible manner at all times. All fines are $5. Fines must be paid within 10 days from date of issuance or fine is doubled. If fine is not paid within 30 days from date of issuance, parking privileges will be REVOKED. Don't lose your on-campus vehicle privilege once you've obtained it. Violation of any safety issue will result in revocation of that privilege. Drive safely and observe the speed limit! Please note that vehicles may be towed or ticketed (at owner’s expense), for violations of school vehicle regulation. Violation of campus vehicle regulations may also result in the following: warning, office detention or ESD.
BICYCLES Racks for bicycle parking are provided. Be certain that your bike is locked.
BUSES The Sanford School Department provides transportation for students who qualify for this service. Remember that there are many people who ride the bus and that rules for safety and guidelines for respecting others must be followed strictly. Make sure that you review the rules that follow for bus stop safety and for riding the bus so that we can have a safe and enjoyable year.
BUS TRANSPORTATION Sanford High School students who live more than 2 miles from school are eligible for free bus transportation, but the right of students to ride on the bus is dependent upon their behavior. Bus drivers are authorized to enforce bus rules and to make suggestions aligned with good citizenship. Bus referrals will be handled by the administration on an individual basis. Violation of bus and/or school rules may cause forfeiture of bus transportation. Bus routes are published in the local newspapers. Additional bus information may be obtained by calling Ledgemere Transportation at 324-4888.
BUS STOP SAFETY 1. All students should stand on the sidewalk or back away from the road while waiting for their bus. They should not approach the bus to board until the driver signals for them to do so. 2. Students are expected to be at their assigned stops five minutes before the bus is due. The bus cannot
29 be expected to wait for late arrivals. 3. Students should enter and exit buses in an orderly manner, using the handrail, and realizing that the driver regulates procedures for movement. 4. All students who must cross the road must do so in front of the bus after the driver has motioned for them to cross. 5. After exiting the bus, all students should leave the area around the bus after the driver has motioned for them to cross. 6. Behavior at bus stops must be appropriate: Fighting, pushing, picking on people, or abusive language will not be tolerated.
RIDING ON THE BUS 1. All passengers must remain seated while the bus is in motion. The driver may assign seats if it is deemed advisable. 2. Normal conversation is allowed; however, loud talking, shouting, and unnecessary confusion cannot be permitted because it may divert the attention of the driver and result in a serious accident. Swearing, rude gestures or cruel teasing are not acceptable. 3. There will be NO smoking, eating, chewing gum, drinking or spraying of perfume like substances on the bus. 4. Passengers must not extend arms, legs or heads out of windows, or shout at pedestrians. They should ask for permission before opening windows. Keep hands, feet and objects to yourselves. 5. Aisles must be kept free of objects for emergency purposes. 6. Nothing shall be thrown IN the bus, OUT of the bus, or AT the bus, nor shall passengers mark or deface the bus. 7. No live animals or inappropriate objects will be allowed on the bus. 8. Students are expected to ride only their regularly scheduled route, and shall get on and off only at their regular bus stops. Any exception to this procedure must be approved, in advance and in writing, by a principal of the school the student attends. 9. If the driver is unsuccessful in obtaining proper behavior on the part of a student, a disciplinary report will be submitted to the school that the student attends. 1st Offense: Warning notice from bus driver sent home to parent and administrative disciplinary action 2nd Offense: Up to five (5) days loss of bus privileges and administrative disciplinary action 3rd Offense: Up to ten (10) days loss of bus privileges and administrative disciplinary action 4th Offense: May result in a loss of bus privileges for the remainder of the school year and administrative disciplinary action.
Important: Remember to respect the safety and well being of others. A serious behavioral issue could result in immediate loss of bus privilege for up to the entire year - even in the case of a first offense/first referral. Don't lose your bus privilege!
VISITORS If a student has a friend who wants to visit the school, arrangements must be made in advance with teachers and the assistant principal. Appropriate forms must be completed three school days prior to the visitation and standard conditions set by the main office must be met before permission will be granted. Generally, the school grants permission to guests of students whose presence would not disrupt the educational environment of the school, alumni(ae) of the school and others who wish to visit. All visitors must report to the main office for a visitor's pass and are expected to attend all classes with the resident student. Note: A student under the jurisdiction of another school district will not be granted visitor privilege on any day that his/her school is in session. To obtain permission to bring a visitor to school: Obtain and complete a visitor permission form from the main office prior to school visitation. Receive an administrator's approval.
30 Guest must stay with student sponsor throughout the day. Note: Students are responsible for their guests. Violation of the school handbook by your guest will result in disciplinary action to the student sponsor!
31 Floor Layout
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33 Parking Availability at Sanford High School Please Note all one-way drives and the Bus Lane is for Buses only.
34 Faculty & Staff 2019-2020 Contact staff by e-mail by first initial, last name @sanford.org. For instance Mr. Matthew Petermann's email address is [email protected] ENGLISH/LANGUAGE ARTS SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Kelly Tibbetts - Department Chair Steve Walker - Department Chair Elizabeth White - Department Chair Valerie West – Department Chair Colin Bushnell Kristie Baker Amos Dunlap Heather English Kelly Foley Molly Kizer Lauren Lamoreau Beth Marass Daniel Milliken Amy Petelo Sally Quarles Lindsay Strout Sandra Thompson Alaina Tomlinson Kimberlee Watson Laurie Works Heidi Whitney MATHEMATICS HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION Mark Camire - Department Chair Diana Walker, Department Chair Mark Boissonneault Ellie Agreste Ryan Camire Tyler Flayhan Nicholas Ericson Kevin Way Daniel McMaster Richard Wilkins James Morse SOCIAL STUDIES Kathryn Peppe Barbara Perry, Department Chair Jed Russell Paul Auger Hannah Smith Darcie Drew Adam Soule Mike Fallon Herb Stitson Alan Helmreich Spencer Hodge-Mackenzie FAMILY & CONSUMER SCIENCE Michael Kane April Morrison, Department Chair Shane O’Connell David Paye VISUAL & PERFORMING ARTS Lance Timberlake Margaret Warner (Arts), Department Chair Erica Scarano (Music) FOREIGN LANGUAGES Meghan Dietsch (Arts) Joshua Clement, Department Chair (French) Jane Kirton (Music) Shannon Farnsworth (Spanish) Lucy Sargeant (Arts) Danika Whitehouse (Spanish) NURSE(S) ELL Lynn Signore, RN Theresa Webber Mary Boone, RN Amy Beyea, CNA KITCHEN Linda Stone, Manager Performing Arts Center Patricia Adams Brett Williams, Director Sandra Black Tracey Corriveau Technology Mona Lamb Joan Wright, Director Candace Lehoux Tim Brownell Stephanie Paterson Andrea Cole Brenda Pilkington Valerie Owen
35 SPECIAL EDUCATION SCHOOL COUNSELING DEPARTMENT Stacey Bissell, Director Beth Letourneau - Director Tammy Delaney, Assistant Director Gayle Fallon, Social Worker Alex Munro - Department Chair Greg MacDougal, Counselor Donna Hanson-Dugas, Administrative Assistant Melissa Plattner, Counselor Kim Gregoire, Administrative Assistant Sarah Preston, Counselor Rebecca Laber-Smith, School Psychologist Paul Santamore, Counselor Jeff Enman, IEP coordiator Alison Canario, Special Education Counselor Stephanie Boissonneault JMG (JOBS FOR MAINE GRADS) Lisa Caldwell Cheryl Gifford Ed Daley Ann Hall ED TECHS Diane Hilton Amy Turgeon, Virtual Learning Rossie Kearson Jessica Rice, Student Success Center Trey Pariseau Traci Emory SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION Michael Gordon Karen Webb - Department Chair (English) KyleAnn Brickett (Social Studies) GIFTED & TALENTED Chris Jeney (Science) Lori Colemen
LIBRARIAN CUSTODIANS Jen Raymond Louis Trott, Head Custodian SECRETARIES Raymond Demarett Joanne Bourassa, Principal’s Office Nelson Bernardo Donna Cormier, School Counseling Office John Foss Anne L’Heureux, School Counseling Office Joseph Mehler Cynthia Pattershall, Assistant Principal Office Mike Pepin Marguerite Smith, Main Office Nathan Rancourt Carrie Hathaway, Main Office Shaun Rowe ATHLETICS John Murphy Gordon Salls, Athletic Director Tammy Scott Arin Auger, Trainer Clarence Turner Becky Cleveland, Administrative Assistant Jane Sprusansky Jess Hobgood, Trainer Conor Larsen, Assistant Facilities Director SPECIAL ED—ED TECHS Lisa Arsenault Missy Baker Karen Bissell ADMINISTRATORS Heidi Hammerle Matthew W. Petermann, Principal Patti Hammerle Bethany T. Lambert, Assistant Principal Vicki Payeur Aaron R. Tremblay, Assistant Principal Sue Petit Troy J. Watts, Assistant Principal Lisa Silva ATTENDANCE COORDINATOR Pam Souzer Michael Fallon Nancy Turgeon FACULTY SUPPORT Lisa Velandry Samantha Brink, Career and PLP Pat Vo STUDENT OUTREACH Kerry White Brent Colemen Melinda Williams Megan Walsh
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STUDENT EXPECTATIONS & CONSEQUENCES In order for any organization or community to function safely and effectively, everyone must accept certain responsibilities, and with those responsibilities come certain expectations. It is important that you know exactly what those expectations are for all students at Sanford High School. Review this section of your handbook carefully so that you understand what is expected of you as you assume the responsibility of being a student at Sanford High School. We want for you to succeed but a critical requirement for success is that you understand and follow each expectation.
It is not the desire of the school administration to place undue emphasis on the consequences applied to infractions of the behavioral guidelines for Sanford High School. However, any student who causes a serious disruption of the education process disciplinary action will be applied for the good of the school. In addition, we are using Restorative Practices here at Sanford High School. This does not mean students will not receive consequences for their actions; however, administration will have some flexibility in our approach to certain offenses. Restorative Practices, with its emphasis on relationships, demands that schools attend to all aspects of the school climate and culture and that they develop a range of relational practices that help prevent and/or consistently respond to incidents of inappropriate behavior. The goal of this is to help understand their behavior and eliminate repeat offenses. Restorative Practices will be used when appropriate.
Important: Based on the seriousness of the offense, some offenses and/or repeat offenses could result in up to a 10 day Out-of-School suspension with recommendation for expulsion.
Definitions TEACHER DETENTION Teachers may assign a detention to a student for the purpose of discussing or correcting student behavioral problems, either academic or social in nature. If a student does not report for teacher detention, the teacher should contact the student's parent or guardian to explain the situation. If the situation is not resolved, the teacher will refer the student to an assistant principal for disciplinary action. A teacher will provide a 24- hour notice when assigning a teacher detention.
OFFICE DETENTION A student will serve office detention from 2:30-3:30. A supervisory teacher will be at that location. Students should bring schoolwork or appropriate reading material with them to detention. There will be no talking, no working with other students, no sleeping and no putting heads on desks. Students who skip or arrive late to office detention without a pass from a teacher will receive the following consequences. Skipping detention will result in One (1) day SSC Note: Ordinarily, office detention will be scheduled on the next school day, when possible.
Student Success Center (SSC) A student can be suspended from school from 1-10 days in accordance with the disciplinary policies in force at Sanford High School as outlined in this handbook. The conditions of placement in the Student Success Center (formerly In School Suspension) include: Students in SSC will be there for the entire day. Students are expected to stay on task, work silently, and follow all school rules. Reflective activities, meetings with teachers, counselors, and/or administrators will occur during the day.
37 The absence designation for SSC will be excused absence. Following the school day in SSC, students will not be allowed to participate in extra-curricular activities. An excessive number of placements in SSC may result in recommendation for further disciplinary actions. The appeals process is only scheduled when due process has not been followed. Please schedule through the principal’s secretary.
OUT-OF-SCHOOL SUSPENSION (OSS) A student can be suspended from school from 1-10 days in accordance with the disciplinary policies in force at Sanford High School as outlined in this handbook. The conditions of Out-of-School Suspension include: A student on Out-of-School Suspension will not be allowed on school grounds without prior administrative approval. Violators will be considered trespassers and an additional day of Out-of-School Suspension will be the consequence of the violation. In order to return to school and participate in any school activities after a suspension, the student and parent/guardian will meet with administration. The absence designation for Out-of-School Suspension will be excused absence. An excessive number of Out-of-School Suspensions may result in recommendation for an expulsion hearing. The appeals process is only scheduled when due process has not been followed. Please schedule through the principal’s secretary. Please note: Administration may use restorative practices when deemed appropriate.
Cease & Desist from Harassment Order When conflicts occur between students in school, Administrators may use a Cease and Desist document to prevent the behavior from continuing for the peace and usefulness of the school. All parties involved will be read and given the document. At that point, all parties involved will have no contact with each other nor shall they use other individuals to contact the others involved. Refusal to sign does not prevent the order from being in place. Violation of the Cease and Desist could result in up to the maximum of 10 days Out of School Suspension.
ASSAULT AND BATTERY/FIGHTING Every individual in the Sanford High School community must behave in a manner that ensures safety for everyone. Behavior that causes physical harm to students, school staff or visitors while under the jurisdiction of the school will not be tolerated. Fighting is strictly prohibited. In order to maintain an environment that is safe for everyone at Sanford High School: Students who engage in a fight will be dealt with equally. Fighting will not be tolerated under any conditions. A student who starts a fight will be dealt with strictly. If, however, the non-aggressor returns physical harm to the instigator, s/he will receive consequences. It is essential that you understand that fighting simply is not tolerated at Sanford High School. Individuals who are aggressively encouraging a confrontation may also receive consequences. 1st Offense: Three (3) day out-of-school suspension and parental conference. 2nd Offense: Five (5) day out-of-school suspension and parental conference. 3rd Offense: Ten (10) day out-of school suspension and recommendation for further action up to and including expulsion. ***Restorative Practices may be used when appropriate. Note: The administration strongly encourages you to consult with the Sanford Police Department and pursue all legal avenues when dealing with assault cases. The SHS administration will notify authorities of certain cases when appropriate. Cease and desist from Harassment Orders may be issued to diffuse conflicts. Important: Based on the seriousness of the offense, a 1st offense or a 2nd offense could result in up to a 10 day Out-of-School suspension with recommendation for expulsion.
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CELL PHONES Students may use cell phones between class blocks and during the lunch blocks. During instructional time and designated school activities all such devices must be turned off and put out of sight or in a staff directed area. If a staff member confiscates the device due to violation of these rules, staff will transfer possession of the device to the administration. Offense: Surrender item for the remainder of the day. Note: Failure to surrender a cell phone will result in a referral to school administration. Continued misuse may result in student being considered uncooperative and having the parent/guardian come in to retrieve the phone.
CHEATING, COPYING, AND PLAGIARIZING Cheating and/or plagiarizing will not be tolerated. Information used from Internet sources must be referenced. In any instance where cheating is detected or assignments have been copied: 1st Offense: Teacher should notify the administrator. A zero may be given for the assignment. Teacher will make parental contact. 2nd Offense: To include consequence for first offense and additional consequences at the discretion of the administrator. 3rd Offense: Additional incidents will result in all the above and a meeting with administration, teacher, and parents to discuss possible additional consequences.
DISRUPTING AN ASSEMBLY Demonstration of mutual respect for one another is a requirement of the Sanford school community, whether in the classroom, the cafeteria or any location in the school building, on the school grounds, or at any school related event. That attitude of mutual respect must also be demonstrated at any school gathering, activity or assembly. Violation of this principle will result in severe consequences. When inappropriate behavior at any school gathering, activity or assembly results in removal from that gathering, activity or assembly, the following minimal consequences will be applied: 1st Offense: Up to three (3) days SSC and parental conference. 2nd Offense: Up to three (3) days OSS and parental conference. Note: Progressive discipline process for disrupting an assembly may be exempted at the discretion of the administration.
DRESS CODE Sanford High School and Sanford Regional Technical Center respect students’ rights to express themselves in the way they dress; however, students’ attire should exercise professionalism and respect. All students who attend our school are also expected to respect the school community by dressing appropriately for the educational environment. Student attire should facilitate participation in learning as well as the health and safety of students and the adults that supervise them.
Minimum Requirements: 1. Clothing must cover areas from one armpit across to the other armpit, down to approximately 3 to 4 inches in length on the upper thighs (see image below). Tops must have shoulder straps (a minimum of one inch wide). Rips or tears in clothing should be smaller than the 3 to 4 inches in length. 2. Shoes must be worn at all times and should be safe for the school environment (pajamas, bedroom shoes or slippers shall not be worn, except for school activities approved by the school administration). 3. See-through or mesh garments must not be worn without appropriate coverage underneath that meet the minimum requirements of the dress code. 4. Specialized courses may require specialized attire, such as sports uniforms or safety gear.
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Additional Requirements: 1. Clothing may not depict, imply, advertise, or advocate illegal, violent, or lewd conduct, weapons, or the use of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana or other controlled substances. 2. Clothing may not depict or imply pornography, nudity, or sexual acts. 3. Clothing may not display or imply vulgar, discriminatory, or obscene language or images. 4. Clothing may not state, imply, or depict hate speech/imagery targeting groups based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious affiliation, or any other protected classification. 5. Sunglasses may not be worn inside the building. 6. Clothing and accessories that endanger student or staff safety may not be worn.
40 7. Apparel, jewelry, accessories, tattoos, or manner of grooming that, by virtue of its color, arrangement, trademark or any other attribute, denotes membership in a gang that advocates illegal or disruptive behavior is prohibited.
The administration at each school reserves the right to determine what constitutes appropriate dress. Students who do not adhere to these guidelines will not be allowed to attend class. Parents will be called if appropriate clothing is not available or the student refuses dress-code appropriate clothing.
DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE GUIDELINES: SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICY, DISCIPLINARY ACTION Please see Policy Section for details and protocol.
FIREARMS, FIREWORKS, DANGEROUS WEAPONS In accordance with the Weapons policy adopted for the Sanford schools, any student at Sanford High School who is determined to have brought a firearm including a pellet or toy gun to school will be suspended immediately for 10 days and will be recommended by school administration for expulsion from the regular school program for at least one year.
Any student who knowingly possesses or uses an article commonly used or designed to inflict bodily harm and/or to intimidate other persons, or uses any object as a weapon even when not necessarily designed to be a weapon to inflict or to threaten bodily harm, and/or to intimidate, coerce or harass another student will be subject to the consequences of the Weapons policy for the Sanford School Department. Examples of such articles include but are not limited to: firearms, ammunition, explosives, “brass” knuckles, switchblades, knives, chains, clubs, Kung Fu “stars,” belts or other articles of clothing, combs, pencils, files, compasses, scissors, propellants and replicas of weapons (including some toys). 1st Offense: Suspension from school of up to 10 days, involvement of law enforcement officials as appropriate, parent conference and possible recommendation to school committee for further action. 2nd Offense: 10-day suspension and referral for further administrative review on a second offense over the period of a student’s high school career.
LEAVING SCHOOL BUILDING Sanford High School is a closed campus. Once a student arrives on school grounds, he or she may NOT leave the school property or building for any reason during the school day, unless going to a scheduled class or unless an administrator has granted prior permission. 1st Offense: Two (2) Office detentions 2nd Offense: One (1) day SSC. Additional Offenses: Up to three (3) days of SSC and/or OSS Note: Parking privileges may also be revoked for those students leaving school grounds by a personal vehicle.
LYING AND FORGERY The relationship between students and staff is based on trust and mutual respect. Making mistakes may be part of the educational process, but deception and lying about wrongdoing places a tremendous strain on the Sanford High School community. Therefore, intentional fabrication, providing false information, or falsifying school documents will result in parental contact and appropriate disciplinary action. 1st Offense: Office detentions and / or SSC 2nd Offense: One (1) day SSC 3rd Offense: up to three (3) days OSS Note: Student lying in an administrative investigation will be given up to ten (10) day out-of-school suspension.
41 PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION Public Display of Affection that are suggestive, provocative or sexual in nature will not be accepted or tolerated. Consequences for these actions may include the following for being uncooperative: Office detentions SSC / OSS
School Safety Any student who jeopardizes the safety of others in the school is strictly prohibited. Examples include: Opening locked doors Propping open doors Allowing unauthorized visitors into the building Throwing items from the 2nd floor to the 1st floor 1st Offense: Two (2) Office Detentions 2nd Offense: One (1) days SSC 3rd Offense: up to five (5) days OSS
SMOKING AND/OR POSSESSION OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS & PARAPHERNALIA Smoking on school property is against Maine State Law. There will be no student smoking of any type on school grounds. Smoking and/or the possession of smoking products or paraphernalia—lighters, matches, tobacco products, vapor mist (nicotine containing and non-nicotine containing), vapor pens, e-cigarettes, etc…while in or on school properties or under the school’s jurisdiction during school hours, or while participating in or at a school-sponsored event, is prohibited and may be grounds for suspension. Smoking violations and possession of tobacco products in any form (cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, etc.) are subject to consequences outlined in the school board policy JICH. 1st Offense: Parent/ Guardian will be notified. Tobacco products will be confiscated. The SRO will be notified if the student is less than eighteen years of age. The student will be assigned up to three days OSS/SSC suspension. The student will be expected to complete an age appropriate educational component. The student will be referred to a counselor. 2nd Offense: In addition to 1st Offense, five days of SSC/OSS and a meeting with parents, student, counselor, and administration. 3rd Offense: In addition to 1st and 2nd Offenses, a conference will be had with parents, student, counselor and administration, up to ten days of OSS, and a commitment by the student to participate in a tobacco education program.
STUDENT SEARCH A search of a student by a teacher or other school official will be “justified at its inception” where there are reasonable grounds for suspecting that the search will turn up evidence that the student has violated or is violating either the law or rules of the school. (See Questioning and Searches of Students Policy JIH.) Refusal to be searched by a school administrator will result in an up to ten (10) day out-of-school suspension and is considered an admission of guilt. Parents will be notified at the conclusion of any search.
STUDENTS SENT FROM CLASS-UNCOOPERATIVE BEHAVIOR Students who are sent from class are to report directly to the Assistant Principal’s office. 1st Offense: Teacher detention and parental contact by teacher 2nd Offense: One (1) office detention 3rd Offense: Two (2) office detention 4th Offense: One (1) day SSC Note: Discipline may vary due to the nature of the incident.
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THEFT Students should report all articles that have been lost, found or stolen to the main office immediately. The following disciplinary measures will be imposed on students guilty of theft: Restitution (Maine State law) Notification of parents Notification of police (if warranted) School disciplinary action: 1st Offense: Up to five (5) days OSS, restitution, and parental contact. 2nd Offense: Up to ten (10) days out-of-school suspension, restitution, parental conference and recommendation for administrative action by the School Committee. ***Restorative Practices may be used when appropriate.
THREATS; INTIMIDATION; HARASSMENT (SEXUAL, VERBAL, WRITTEN, PHYSICAL); BIAS; PREJUDICE; SLURS; BULLYING A student shall not intimidate, threaten or harass school staff, other students, or visitors while under the jurisdiction of the school. Harassment is any unwanted physical gesture, verbal, handwritten or electronically transmitted activity that interferes with a student or staff person’s ability to do work or come to school. This includes taking unwanted videos and photos of students or staff and posting them on social media or distributing them. Bullying is defined as unwanted, aggressive behavior that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. The behavior is repeated or the potential to be repeated over the course of time. In addition to encompassing the school day, "jurisdiction of the school" includes: School dances, athletic events, field trips, and any other activities sponsored by the school, even when these activities do not take place on the school grounds or during the regular or normal school hours. Riding on the school buses and/or waiting at bus locations. 1st Offense: Up to Three (3) day out-of-school suspension and parental conference. 2nd Offense: up to Five (5) day out-of-school suspension and parental conference. 3rd Offense: up to Ten (10) day out-of school suspension and recommendation for further action up to and including expulsion. Note: The administration strongly encourages you to consult with the Sanford Police Department and pursue all legal avenues when dealing with assault cases. The SHS administration will notify authorities of certain cases when appropriate. ***Restorative Practices may be used when appropriate. Important: Based on the seriousness of the offense, a 1st offense or a 2nd offense could result in up to a 10-day Out-of-School suspension with recommendation for expulsion. *** For Bullying/Cyberbullying, see Policy JICK at the end of this Handbook
UNCOOPERATIVE BEHAVIOR OUTSIDE OF THE CLASSROOM Students who are being uncooperative outside of the classroom. This includes passing time, before school, after school, lunch, etc. These students will be referred for discipline to school administration. 1st Offense: One (1) Office Detention 2nd Offense: Two (2) Office Detention 3rd Offense: up to One (1) day SSC 4th Offense: up to Three (3) days OSS Note: Discipline may vary due to the nature of the incident. ***Restorative Practices may be used when appropriate.
VANDALISM Willfully vandalizing any part of the school, including any type of graffiti, will result in disciplinary action commensurate with the offense and students will not be readmitted until a plan for restitution is made. 1st Offense: Up to five (5) days out-of-school suspension at the discretion of administration, restitution and/or restoration of equipment or facility, and parental conference.
43 2nd Offense: up to Ten (10) day out-of-school suspension, restitution and possible recommendation for further administrative action by the School Committee. ***Restorative Practices may be used when appropriate.
VULGARITY, OBSCENE LANGUAGE, OR PORNOGRAPHY Self-respect and mutual respect among students and toward all members of the High School community are expected of everyone at Sanford High School. Students shall not use any disrespectful, vulgar, pornographic, profane or obscene language or gestures, spoken, drawn, written, computer generated or physical at Sanford High School or off-site school event. Students who do not meet these expectations are subject to consequences in two categories: the first is referred to as “general vulgarity/obscene language.” The second is referred to as “vulgar or obscene language or gesture directed at school personnel.” Any type of vulgarity, pornography or obscene language will not be tolerated on campus. General vulgarity/obscene language 1st Offense: Two (2) Office detentions 2nd Offense: Up to two (2) days SSC 3rd Offense: Up to Three (3) or more days OSS 4th Offense: Up to ten (10) days OSS and possible recommendation for further administrative action by the School Committee. Vulgar or obscene language or gesture directed at school personnel 1st Offense: Up to five (5) days out-of-school suspension and parental conference. 2nd Offense: Up to ten (10) days out-of-school suspension and possible recommendation for Expulsion hearing. Note: Administrators have the authority to bypass the progressive nature of the disciplinary policy if a student’s action jeopardizes the safety or any member of the Sanford High School Community. ***Restorative Practices may be used when appropriate.
44 SANFORD SCHOOL DEPARTMENT DISTRICT POLICIES GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS - Classes of 2019 and 20
With the implementation of Maine’s system of Learning Results, local assessment systems to measure students progress toward achievement of the content standards of the Learning Results, the phasing in of standards-based diploma requirements, and heightened community expectations for student learning, the Sanford School Committee recognizes the need to establish minimum standards for the awarding of a high school diploma that are consistent with State law and regulations with community educational values and expectations
Before entering high school, students need to know the standards for attaining a high school diploma in order to plan an appropriate, sequential, educational program to meet that goal.
The Superintendent, through the high school principal or other designee, shall be responsible for making accurate information concerning diploma requirements available to incoming students and their parents prior to the start of their ninth grade school year. A copy of this policy will be disseminated to all incoming ninth grade students at the time of course selection. This policy will also be included in every edition of the high school student handbook.
The school Committee has approved this schedule of minimum requirements for graduation.
I. Students must meet the following minimum requirements in order to be awarded a high school diploma:
A. The student must successfully complete a total of 25 credits. Of these credits, 12½ (twelve and one half) must be those specified by the State of Maine, and additional credits required by the School Committee as follows: English Language Arts – 5 credits; Mathematics – 3 credits; Social Studies and History, including one year of US/World History and government – 3 credits; Science, including at least one year of laboratory study – 3 credits; Fine Arts, which may include art, music, forensics, or drama – 1 credit; Health – ½ credit; And Physical Education – 1 credit.
B. The state also requires that students demonstrate computer skills according to Sanford’s standards for computer literacy, proficiency and performance.
C. In addition to the State requirements, the student must meet the following graduation requirement established by the School Committee: 20 hours of community service.
D. The remaining credits may be selected by the student based upon the student’s interests, abilities, and the requirements of the field that the student plans to enter upon graduation.
II. For students graduating at the end of the 2021 school year and thereafter, they must demonstrate proficiency in Maine’s Learning Results as defined by the Sanford School Committee in addition to the requirements listed above. See Appendix A.
45 A. Full time students must be engaged in educational experiences in the content areas of English Language Arts, Mathematics, and Science and Technology in each year of their high school program.
B. Sanford High School offers students a variety of learning options that allow students to demonstrate proficiency on expected learning standards, earn academic credit, and satisfy graduation requirements.
III. Additional Considerations Applicable to the Awarding of Standards-Based Diplomas
A. Transfer and Home-schooled Students: For students who transfer to Sanford High School from another state or from an educational program that is not required to meet the content standards of the system of Learning Results, the Sanford high School principal shall determine the value of the student’s prior educational experience towards achieving the standards in a manner consistent with Sanford’s Local Assessment System and applicable School Committee policies.
B. Students Receiving Special Education Services: Students who successfully meet the content standards of the Learning Results, as specified in the goals and objectives of their Individualized Education Plans (IEP), will be awarded diplomas.
C. Early Awarding of Diplomas: A student who has met the State’s and the School Committee’s diploma requirements in fewer than four years of high school may be awarded a diploma.
D. Certificate of Attendance: The School Committee may provide a student who leaves school without meeting the standards of the Learning Results with a Certificate of Attendance, provided that the student has attended for two years and received a minimum of ten credits as a full time student. This certificate acknowledges participation in the educational program for a specific period of time and includes a record of the student’s course credits and Learning Results proficiency.
E. Delayed Awarding of Diplomas: At the Superintendent’s discretion, a student who leaves Sanford High School prior to graduation to attend an accredited, degree-granting institution of higher education may, upon satisfactory completion of the freshman year be awarded a high school diploma, although he/she may not have met all diploma requirements.
Students who receive a high school diploma must notify the high school principal forty- five days before graduation so that there is ample time for evaluation of the request and, if approved, for preparation of the diploma and planning for the student’s participation in the graduation ceremony, if the student desires to do so.
F. Extended Study: Students are eligible for extended years of study to complete the requirements of a diploma if they have not reached the age of twenty at the start of the school year. Students eligible for extended years of study may be referred to adult education or other resources suitable to young learners. Extended study for students with disabilities shall be specified in the student’s individualized education plan.
G. Participation in Graduation Ceremony: A student must complete all requirements for a high school diploma in order to participate in graduation exercises. Additionally, the
46 student must be in compliance with the Sanford Code of Conduct. Legal Reference: 20-A M.R.S.A. §4722, Ch. 127 §7 (Me. Dept. of Ed. Rules) Cross Reference: IHCDA – Post-Secondary Enrollment Options IKFA- Early Graduation IK – Student Achievement ILA – Testing and Assessment of Students (Local Assessment System)
Adopted: September 8, 2003 Revised: May 8, 2014 Corrected: July 30, 2007
ANNUAL PARENTAL NOTICE: FEDERAL EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA) By this notice, parents of students currently in attendance in the Sanford Public Schools and eligible students (age 18 and older) have the following rights with respect to student education records.
Pupil records are collected and maintained to promote the instruction, guidance, and educational progress of the pupil and for legitimate educational research.
Parents or eligible students (age 18 or older) are entitled to certain rights and protection under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. A complete copy of Sanford Public School Policy ‘JO’ student record policy may be obtained through the school website under policies at www.sanford.org. However, the following items outline your rights.
Sanford High School is required by the Commissioner to collect and report student social security numbers for longitudinal data purposes. Sanford School Department will be asking parents to provide written consent to use their child’s social security number for these purposes. Provision of the child’s social security number is not required as a condition of enrollment in Sanford School Department and no child’s social security number may be used for longitudinal data purposes without prior written parental consent. When a student turns 18 years of age, the written consent must be obtained from the student and the rights previously accorded to the parent are accorded to the student.
The parent or eligible student has a right to: 1. Inspect and review the student’s education record; 2. Request the amendment of the student’s educational records; 3. Consent to disclosure of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent allowed in accordance with 34CFR, Section 99; 4. File a complaint with the U.S. Dept. of Education, and 5. Obtain a copy of Sanford Public Schools student records policy ‘JO’ by contacting the building principal.
47 The three types of student records maintained by the school include: Academic information such as grades, progress reports, student work samples, achievement test data, etc. Statistical information including aptitude scores, mental ability, permanent school health records, etc. Directory information on students, such as names, ages, addresses, telephone number, grade, field of study, participation in officially recognized activities, and sports and awards received.
All directory information may be made public without notice unless the school is notified in writing by July 1 for the upcoming school year or within 30 days after enrollment, whichever is later, that such information is to be withheld. Information from academic and statistical records will not be released to persons other than authorized school personnel without prior written consent.
Sanford Public Schools may forward educational records to other agencies or institutions that have requested the records and in which the student seeks or intends to enroll.
STUDENT DISCRIMINATION AND HARASSMENT/SEXUAL HARASSMENT Harassment of students because of race, color, sex, religion, ancestry or national origin, or disability is prohibited. Such conduct is a violation of Sanford School Committee policy and may constitute illegal discrimination under state and federal laws.
HARASSMENT Harassment includes but is not limited to verbal abuse based on race, color, sex, religion, ancestry or national origin, or disability. Harassment that rises to the level of physical assault, battery and/or abuse is also addressed in the Sanford School Committee Policy JICIA – Weapons, Violence, School Safety and Bomb Threats.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT Sexual Harassment includes but is not limited to unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors or pressure to engage in sexual activity, physical contact of a sexual nature, gestures, comments, or other physical, written or verbal conduct that is gender-based that interferes with a student’s’ education. School employees, fellow students, volunteers and visitors to the school, and other persons with whom students may interact in order to pursue school activities are required to refrain from such conduct.
Harassment/sexual harassment of students by school employees is considered grounds for disciplinary action, up to and including discharge. Harassment/sexual harassment of other students by other students is considered grounds for disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion. The Superintendent will determine appropriate sanctions for harassment of students by persons other than school employees and students.
The superintendent or the employee designated as the Affirmative Action Officer will investigate complaints of harassment in accordance with Student Harassment Complaint Procedure (File: ACAA-R). School employees, school volunteers, students, and parents shall be informed of this policy/procedure through handbooks an/or other means selected by the school administration.
JICIA Policy is located here: https://core- docs.s3.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/271063/JICIA_-
48 _WEAPONS__VIOLENCE_AND_SCHOOL_SAFETY.pdf
STUDENT DISCRIMINATION AND HARASSMENT COMPLAINT PROCEDURE POLICY ACAA-R SANFORD SCHOOL DEPARTMENT This procedure has been adopted by the School Committee in order to provide a method of prompt and equitable resolution of student complaints of discrimination or discriminatory harassment as described in policies AC – Nondiscrimination/Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action and ACAA – Harassment and Sexual Harassment of Students
Policy located here: https://core- docs.s3.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/223005/ACAA-R_- _SEXUAL_HARASSMENT_COMPLAINT.pdf
HAZING POLICY ACAD SANFORD SCHOOL DEPARTMENT Maine statute defines injurious hazing as “any action or situation, including harassing behavior that recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health of any school personnel or a student enrolled in a public school.”
It is the policy of the School Committee that injurious hazing activities of any type, either on or off school property, by any student, staff member, group or organization affiliated with this school unit, are inconsistent with the educational process and shall be prohibited at all times. No administrator, faculty member, or other employee of the school unit shall encourage, permit, condone, or tolerate injurious hazing activities. No student, including leaders of students’ organizations, shall plan, encourage, or engage in injurious hazing activities.
Policy is located here: https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/223008/ACAD_- _HAZING.pdf
System-Wide Student Code of Conduct - Policy JIC, Sanford School Department Ethical and responsible student behavior is an essential part of the educational mission of our schools. To that end, the School Committee has developed this System-Wide Code of Conduct with input from school staff, students, parents and the community. The Code defines our expectations for student behavior and provides the framework for a safe, orderly and respectful learning environment.
Policy is located here: https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/271060/JIC_- _SYSTEM-WIDE_STUDENT_CODE_OF_CONDUCT.pdf
DRUG AND ALCOHOL USE BY STUDENTS POLICY JICH SANFORD SCHOOL DEPARTMENT All of our school staff and the School Committee are truly concerned with the student as a “whole” person and his/her overall growth and development. Chemical dependency is recognized as a treatable disease which may interfere with the learning process, create severe interpersonal problems and cause physical and emotional suffering to the user, as well as to family and close associates. Substance use/abuse may permeate all facets of the community. Therefore, the school unit will cooperate with appropriate organizations to help detect, diagnose and treat affected students. The committee unequivocally endorses the philosophy that the schools should be free from the detrimental effects of illicit drugs and alcohol.
In order to ensure the highest possible standards of learning, as well as the safety, health and well-being of students, the School Committee endorses a substance abuse policy which will aid students to abstain from
49 the use of illicit drugs and alcohol, provide for early intervention when use is detected, and sanction corrective disciplinary action. Compliance with the school unit’s standards of conduct related to substance abuse is mandatory.
PREVENTION The school unit will provide students with information and/or activities focused on prevention of the use of alcohol and illicit drugs. Programs are to be provided that teach students that using illicit drugs and alcohol is wrong and harmful. The legal, social and health consequences of illicit drug and alcohol abuse are to be addressed. Students are to be taught how to resist peer pressure. SELF REFERRAL Students seeking help for themselves, or someone they are concerned about, may do so by approaching any school staff member. INTERVENTION The school system will establish and provide assistance to students who have been identified as chemically involved. Students are to be assisted in addressing their harmful involvement with chemicals and in continuing in their educational programs. Moreover, information and referral shall be provided, as appropriate, to aid involved students in connection with community agencies for illicit drug and alcohol use treatment. Conversations and information gathered during the intervention of an incident and any subsequent referral will be strictly confidential.
PROCEDURES FOR STUDENT INVOLVEMENT WITH DRUGS AND ALCOHOL
Procedures found here: https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/271062/JICH- R_-_PROCEDURES_FOR_STUDENT_INVOLVEMENT_WITH_DRUGS_AND_ALCOHOL.pdf
STUDENT DEVICE & INTERNET USE RULES ACCEPTABLE AND PROHIBITIVE USE All students are responsible for their actions and activities involving school unit devices, network and Internet services, and for their computer files, passwords and accounts. These rules provide general guidance concerning the use of the school unit’s devices and examples of prohibited uses and apply to all school- owned devices wherever used, and all uses of school servers, internet access and possible prohibited activity by students. The rules do not attempt to describe every possible prohibited activity by students. Students, parents and school staff who have questions about whether a particular activity is prohibited are encouraged to contact a building administrator.
Violations of policies or rules governing the use of school owned devices or any inappropriate use of a device may result in the device being confiscated and/or used under only the direct supervision of school personnel. There may also be disciplinary action, referral to law enforcement and/or legal action.
A. Acceptable Use 1. The school unit’s devices, network and Internet services are provided for educational purposes and research consistent with the school unit’s educational mission, curriculum and instructional goals. School unit devices will only be used by the student to whom it is assigned and by the student’s authorized parent(s) or guardian(s). 2. Students must comply with all School Committee policies, school rules and expectations concerning student conduct and communications when using school devices at all times, whether on or off school property. 3. Students also must comply with all specific instructions from school staff and volunteers when using the school unit’s computers.
B. Prohibited Uses Unacceptable uses of school unit devices include, but are not limited to, the following:
50 1. Accessing or Communicating Inappropriate Materials – Students shall not access, submit, post, publish, forward, download, scan or display defamatory, abusive, obscene, vulgar, sexually suggestive, threatening, discriminatory, harassing, bullying and/or illegal materials or messages.
2. Illegal Activities – Students shall not use the school unit’s devices, network and Internet services for any illegal activity, including sexting and cyberbullying, or in violation of any School Committee policy/procedure or school rules. The school unit assumes no responsibility for illegal activities of students while using school devices.
3. Violating Copyrights of Software Licenses – Students shall not copy, download or share any type of copyrighted materials (including music of films) without the owner’s permission; or copy or download software without the express authorization of the Technology Coordinator. Unauthorized copying of software is illegal and may subject the copier to substantial civil and criminal penalties. The school unit assumes no responsibility for copyright or licensing violations by students.
4. Plagiarism – Students shall not represent as their own work any materials obtained on the Internet (such as term papers, articles, music, etc). When Internet sources are used in student work, the author, publisher and web site must be identified and cited.
5. Use for Non-School-Related Purposes – Students will not use the school unit’s devices, network and Internet services for any inappropriate personal reasons not connected with the educational program or school assignments.
6. Misuse of Passwords/Unauthorized Access – Students shall not share passwords with other students; use other user’s passwords; access or use other users’ accounts; or attempt to circumvent network security systems. Students are required to disclose their login password to their parent(s)/ guardian(s)/ school personnel. Parent(s) / guardian(s) are responsible for supervising their child’s use of the device and Internet access when used in any location off school grounds.
7. Malicious Use/Vandalism – Students shall not engage in any malicious use, disruption or harm to the school unit’s devices, network and Internet services, including but not limited to hacking activities and creation/uploading of computer viruses.
8. Avoiding School Filters – Students shall not attempt to or use any software, utilities, proxies or other means to access Internet sites or content blocked or prohibited by the school filters. Any student who identifies a security problem must notify his/her teacher or building administrator immediately. The student shall not demonstrate the problem to others or access unauthorized material.
9. Unauthorized Access to Blogs/Social Networking Sites, Etc. – Students shall not access blogs, social networking sites, etc. to which student access is prohibited.
10. Personal Information – A student is not allowed to reveal his/her full name, address, telephone number, social security number, photograph or other personal information on the Internet while using a school device without prior permission from a parent/guardian. In addition, students should never agree to meet people they have contacted through the Internet without parent/guardian permission.
11. Student and System Security – The safety of all students, and the security of the school unit’s devices, network, and Internet services are a high priority. Any student who identifies a security problem, or accesses information or content that is dangerous, inappropriate, makes them feel uncomfortable in any way, or is in violation of any local, state and federal law must notify a school teacher or administrator immediately. They student will not take further actions on the device until the issue has been resolved by school administrators.
C. Annual Acceptable Use Agreement – All students in grades 4-12 and their parents/guardians are required to sign an annual acceptable use agreement indicating understanding and compliance with the
51 rules outlined in policy IJNDB-R. In addition, all parent/guardians of students in grades 7-12 are required to attend an annual informational meeting at the beginning of the school year to review guidelines and expectations for home use of school technology. Sanford School Department will make every effort possible for parent/guardians to access this informational meeting to include a video recording of the meeting option available by link to the school website. Parent/guardians with multiple students in grades 7-12 will only be required to attend or watch one meeting to satisfy this requirement.
D. Compensation for Losses, Costs and/or Damages – The student and his/her parent(s)/guardian(s) are responsible for the proper care of school-issued devices at all times, whenever used whether on or off school property. Parents(s)/guardian(s) and students will also be responsible for costs associated with repairing or replacing the devices due to damages as a result of violations of School Committee policies/procedure or school rules as outlined in this policy and the Sanford School Department Technology Device Annual Acceptable Use Agreement. This includes any costs for investigating such violations. The school unit assumes not responsibility for any unauthorized charges or costs incurred by a student while using school unit devices.
TECHNOLGY DEVICE TERMS AND RESPONSIBILITIES I have read and agree to abide by policy IJNDB: Student Device and Internet Use and Policy IJNDB-R: Student Device and Internet Use Rules Acceptable & Prohibited Use. I understand that the device is being loaned to me through the Sanford School Department. I have no expectation of privacy in my use of school devices, whether used on or off school property. I agree not to allow my friends, relatives or anyone other than myself or my parent/guardian to use my device. I will keep my device fully charged each day. I will always keep my device in the protective case provided by the school department. I will not download any software or apps without the proper permissions, and I understand that school officials and teachers or staff will remove any inappropriate software/apps/tools including proxies. I will make sure “Location Services” are always enabled on my device I agree to give my credentials to my teacher or designated school official for safekeeping. I understand that the device charger will be issued to me and that I am responsible for any damage or loss. I agree not to carry the charger with me. I understand that I must return the device, protective case and charger at the end of the school year. Accidental Damage for students who are not allowed to, or choose not to, take the device home – I understand that in the event of accidental damage to the device while at school, I will not be responsible for the cost of the first repair. All instances of damage will be investigated on a case-by-case basis by school administration. Protection Plan (for students in grades 7-12) – I understand that in order to take the device home I will be required to participate in an annual protection plan with an annual fee. In the event the device is damaged or lost, I will be required to pay $50 deductible toward the repair or replacement of the device. For any additional accidental damage or loss, I will be required to pay the full cost of the repair or replacement of the device. Negligent or Intentional Damage – I understand that I will be required to pay the full cost of the repair or replacement in any situations of negligent or intentional damage to the device whether in school or outside of school. I could also be subject to possible further disciplinary action. I understand that if I move to another school or discontinue school, I must return all devices and equipment to the school within 10 days or my parent/guardian will be charged for the full replacement cost of all items.
52 I understand that if I do not fulfill the above terms and responsibilities I will lose the privilege to use the school issued device and possibly be subject to further disciplinary action Policy IJNDB found here: https://core- docs.s3.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/270995/IJNDB_- _STUDENT_COMPUTER_AND_INTERNET_USE.pdf
TOBACCO USE AND POSSESSION POLICY “Tobacco use, particularly smoking, remains the number one cause of preventable disease and death in the United States” – Report of Surgeon General, 2000. In order to reduce the high incidence of tobacco use; promote the health and safety of all students and employees of the Sanford School Department; and to maintain the cleanliness of facilities, the Sanford School Department prohibits smoking and the use of all tobacco products in any Sanford School Department facility. Smoking and tobacco product use is also prohibited on school grounds and in school buses or other school vehicles at all times and by all persons, including students, employees and visitors. Students and employees are further prohibited from possessing, selling, distributing or d i s p e n s i n g tobacco products in school buildings, facilities, on school grounds, and buses at all times, including school-sponsored events. Advertising of tobacco products is prohibited in school buildings, on school property and in all s c h o o l publications. Students and employees are prohibited from wearing and/or displaying any type of tobacco promotion clothing or materials. Tobacco prevention and cessation education will be incorporated into the K-12 comprehensive Coordinated School Health Education Curriculum as part of the Maine Learning Results, so that all students will be aware of the benefits of non-use and the consequences of use of tobacco products and the appropriate referral agencies for help. Communication of Policy This tobacco policy shall be printed in employee and student handbooks and posted in the appropriate employee work areas both inside and outside the schools of the district. Signs will be posted at entrances of schools, school grounds, playgrounds and athletic field Parents/guardians will be sent notification in writing of this tobacco policy in an appropriate distribution at the beginning of the school year. Enforcement of the Tobacco Policy Violations: Students who violate this policy may be subject to appropriate disciplinary measures at the discretion of the building administrator. Any student who violates this policy shall be reported to the appropriate law enforcement officials. Any staff member who violates this policy will be referred to the appropriate building administrator and will be subject to disciplinary action and referred to a smoking cessation program. Visitors found using tobacco products will be asked by the appropriate school official to refrain from smoking or using tobacco products while on school property. They will be informed of the school department’s tobacco-free policy. If visitors do not comply, they will be asked to leave. If they refuse to leave, a referral will be made to a law enforcement agency. Legal References: 22 MRSA 1578-B Me. PL 470 “An Act to Reduce Tobacco Use by Minors” 20 USC 6081 “Pro-Children Act of 1994 – Goals 2000” Adoption Date: November 2, 1998 Date Amended: June 19, 2006
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REFERRAL/PRE-REFERRAL POLICY IHBAA SANFORD SCHOOL DEPARTMENT It shall be the policy of the Sanford School Department to refer all school-age students suspected of having a disability that requires special education to the pupil evaluation team (PET) for an evaluation in the suspected areas of disability. Referrals of students to the pupil evaluation team may be made by professional school staff, by parents, and by other persons knowledgeable about the child’s educational needs.
The Superintendent of Schools, in consultation with the Director of Special Education, may develop procedures for referral and the use of pre-referral interventions within the local school unit, and may from time to time amend those procedures as necessary. REFERENCES: ME Dept. of Education Reg. Ch. 101, subsections 7.7, 9.8, 9.17 (Nov.1999); 20 U.S.C. subsection 1400 (5)(F); 34 C.F.R. Part 300, App. A., Q. 17 (March 1999). Adoption Date: February 21, 2001 Effective Date: February 21, 2001 Re-Adoption Date: August 19, 2002
REFERRAL/PRE-REFERRAL PROCEDURES POLICY IHBAA SANFORD SCHOOL DEPARTMENT School employees who are making a referral shall do so by contacting building principal/guidance counselor and by filling out the appropriate referral forms. Parents may at any time refer their child to the pupil evaluation team if they believe the child may be in need of special services. Parents should contact building principal/guidance counselor to make a referral, but also may contact the child’s teacher to make that referral. School professionals who are informed by parents or others of a desire to refer a student should immediately direct that person to building principal/guidance counselor for initiation and discussion of the referral process. The school professional should also document in writing the contact with the parent or other person and should immediately forward that documentation. Once a referral has been made, the PET members have 15 school days to review any existing evaluation data and to determine what evaluations may be needed as part of the referral process. That review may occur either at a PET meeting, or through other discussions that assure full parent awareness and the opportunity to participate. If PET members are unable to reach agreement on necessary evaluations outside of a PET meeting, a PET meeting shall be held to discuss the issue. Within 15 school days of receiving the referral, the local school unit should send to the parent a consent for initial evaluation form. When the school receives that consent form back from the family with the appropriate signatures, the local school unit has forty-five (45) school days to complete the evaluation and to hold a Pupil Evaluation Team (PET) meeting to determine whether the student qualifies for special education services. If the student is identified as a child with a disability in need of special education, the PET should develop an IEP for that child within 30 days of the determination that the student is eligible.
Transfer students who have already been identified as in need of special services shall on transfer and with prior written notice to the parent be provided with special education consistent with the IEP developed at the prior school, and shall be referred to the PET to review the program. If the transfer student’s current IEP from his or her prior school unit is not available, or is believed to be inappropriate by either the parent of the school; the school should develop a new IEP through appropriate procedures within a short time after the student enrolls at the school.
Upon enrollment in public school, a student who was being served by the CDS system shall be treated by the local school unit in the same manner as are transfer students under the state special education regulations, except that the student’s Individual Family Service Plan from CDS will be considered as his or her current IEP until such time as a PET meets to alter or amend that program. Placement, however, will be in the public school system rather than at the site provided by CDS.
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PRE-REFERRAL STRATEGIES Professional school staff members who observe that a student is encountering academic, social or emotional difficulties in school that interfere with the student’s education shall document those specific difficulties on a Pre-Referral Checklist.
The school staff member shall then develop an intervention strategy, using the intervention checklist that accompanies the pre-referral checklist. The staff member may consult with other school employees and/or the student’s parents in developing the intervention strategy. The intervention strategy shall have an established time period for implementation, and at the end of that time its success shall be assessed and documented at the bottom of the intervention checklist. If the intervention strategy fails to resolve satisfactorily the difficulties that were interfering with the student’s education and the staff member suspects that the student may be in need of special education, the staff member shall refer the student to a pupil evaluation team in accordance with the referral process noted above.
PARENTAL NOTICE In addition to other requirements for parental notification, the Sanford School Department shall notify parents in writing consistent with state special education regulations whenever their child has been referred to the pupil evaluation team, and shall notify parents whenever their child has demonstrated educational difficulties that have led to completion by a staff member of the pre-referral checklist and intervention strategy checklist.
That notification of pre-referral interventions should include copies of the completed checklists and shall request that the parents contact the staff member who has completed the documents. That notification shall also inform parents that they have a right to refer their child directly to the pupil evaluation team if they suspect that their child may need special education services. The Sanford School Department may advise the parents as to why it may be appropriate to have the child participate in the intervention strategies prior to a referral to the pupil evaluation team, but the School Department shall not reject or delay the referral until the intervention strategies have been tried if the parent requests that the school proceed immediately with the referral. The school shall document the parent’s decision.
That notification shall also inform the parents that they have a right to request a due process hearing from the Maine Department of Education in response to any refusal by the school to proceed with their request to refer this child to the pupil evaluation team.
REFERENCES: ME Dept. of Ed. Reg. ch. 101, subsections 7.7, 9.8, 9.17(Nov. 1999); 20 U.S.C. subsections 1400©(5)(F); 34 C.F.R. Part 300, App. A., Q. 17(March 1999). Adoption Date: February 21, 2001 Effective Date: February 21, 2001 Re-Adoption Date: August 19, 2002
QUESTIONING AND SEARCHES OF STUDENTS POLICY JIH SANFORD SCHOOL DEPARTMENT The School Committee seeks to maintain a safe and orderly environment in the schools. School administrators are authorized to question and/or search students in accordance with this policy.
Students may not bring, possess or store at school any items or substances which are prohibited by law, School Committee policies and/or school rules, or which interfere with the operations, discipline or general welfare of the school.
Student use of all storage facilities, including but not limited to lockers, desks, and parking lots, is a privilege granted by the school. All storage facilities are school property and remain under the control, custody, and supervision of the school. Students have no expectation of privacy in school storage facilities or for any items placed in such storage facilities. School administrators have the authority to inspect and
55 search storage facilities and their contents on a random basis, with or without reasonable suspicion, and without notice or consent.
If a search produces evidence that a student has violated or is violating the law, School Committee policies and/or school rules, such evidence may be seized and impounded by school administrators and appropriate disciplinary action may be taken. Evidence may be forwarded to law enforcement authorities as required by law or as deemed appropriate by school administrators.
School staff, students, and parents shall be informed of this policy on an annual basis through handbooks and/or other means selected by school administrators.
The Superintendent is authorized to develop and implement, with input from legal counsel, administrators, staff, and others as appropriate, any administrative procedures necessary to carry out this policy. Such administrative procedures shall be subject to School Committee approval. Adoption Date: June 19, 2000 Effective Date: June 19, 2000
WEAPONS, VIOLENCE, AND SCHOOL SAFETY POLICY JICIA SANFORD SCHOOL DEPARTMENT The School Committee believes that students and staff are entitled to learn and work in a school environment free of violence, threats and disruptive behavior. Students are expected to conduct themselves with respect for others and in accordance with School Committee policies, school rules, reasonable unwritten behavior expectations, and applicable state and federal laws. School staff is required to immediately report incidents of prohibited conduct by students to the building administrator/designee for investigation and appropriate action.
Policy located here: https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/271063/JICIA_- _WEAPONS__VIOLENCE_AND_SCHOOL_SAFETY.pdf
Student Attendance and Truancy Policy Sanford School Department I. Rational The School Committee has adopted this policy to ensure compliance with state laws concerning student attendance at school and truancy. In addition, the School Committee, school administrators and staff recognize our duty to provide a proper education for the children of the community. The term education encompasses more than performance on examinations and other written work. A proper education includes consistent attendance and participation in classes. Learning experiences which take place in the class are essential components of the educational process. Only by being present in the classroom can students take advantage of the intangible benefits of a public school education, such as group interaction with teachers and fellow students, participation in class discussion, instruction, and other related learning experiences. As class attendance is one of the important factors contributing to academic achievement, teachers take this into account when determining student grades.
Policy located here: https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/271029/JED_- _STUDENT_ATTENDANCE_AND_TRUANCY.pdf
Bullying and Cyberbullying Prevention in Schools It is our goal for our school[s] to be a safe and secure learning environment for all students. It is the intent of the Sanford School Committee to provide all students with an equitable opportunity to learn. To that end, the School Committee has a significant interest in providing a safe, orderly, and respectful school environment that is conducive to teaching and learning.
56 Bullying and other forms of peer mistreatment are detrimental to the school environment as well as student learning, achievement and well-being. Peer mistreatment interferes with the mission of the schools to educate their students and disrupts the operations of the schools. Bullying and other forms of peer mistreatment affect not only students who are targets but also those who participate in and witness such behavior. These behaviors must be addressed to ensure student safety and an inclusive learning environment.
It is not the School Committee’s intent to prohibit students from expressing their ideas, including ideas that may offend the sensibilities of others, or from engaging in civil debate. However, the School Committee does not condone and will take action in response to conduct that interferes with students’ opportunity to learn, the educational mission of the Sanford schools, and the operation of the schools.
Policy located here: https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/271064/JICK_- _Bullying_2016.pdf
Administrative procedures: https://core- docs.s3.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/271068/JICK- R__Bullying_Administrative_Procedure_2016.pdf
STATE LAWS
§ 6553. Prohibition of hazing 1. DEFINITIONS. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings.
A. "Injurious hazing" means any action or situation which recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health of a student enrolled in a public school.
B. "Violator" means any person or any organization which engages in injurious hazing.
§506-A. Harassment 1. A person is guilty of harassment if, without reasonable cause: A. The person engages in any course of conduct with the intent to harass, torment or threaten another person
§209. Criminal threatening 1. A person is guilty of criminal threatening if he intentionally or knowingly places another person in fear of imminent bodily injury.
§210. Terrorizing A. A person is guilty of terrorizing if that person in fact communicates to any person a threat to commit or to cause to be committed a crime of violence dangerous to human life, against the person to whom the communication is made or another, and the natural and probable consequence of such a threat, whether or not such consequence in fact occurs, is: To place the person to whom the threat is communicated or the person threatened in reasonable fear that the crime will be committed. Violation of this paragraph is a Class D crime; or [2001, c. 383, §11 (AMD); 2001, c. 383, §156 (AFF).] B. To cause evacuation of a building, place of assembly or facility of public transport or to cause the occupants of a building to be moved to or required to remain in a designated secured area. Violation of this paragraph is a Class C crime.
§207. Assault 1. A person is guilty of assault if:
57 A. The person intentionally, knowingly or recklessly causes bodily injury or offensive physical contact to another person. Violation of this paragraph is a Class D crime;
§501-A. Disorderly conduct 1. A person is guilty of disorderly conduct if: A. In a public place, the person intentionally or recklessly causes annoyance to others by intentionally: (1) Making loud and unreasonable noises; (2) Activating a device, or exposing a substance, that releases noxious and offensive odors; or (3) Engaging in fighting, without being licensed or privileged to do so; [2007, c. 144, §3 (NEW).] B. In a public or private place, the person knowingly accosts, insults, taunts or challenges any person with offensive, derisive or annoying words, or by gestures or other physical conduct, that would in fact have a direct tendency to cause a violent response by an ordinary person in the situation of the person so accosted, insulted, taunted or challenged; [2007, c. 144, §3 (NEW).] “Public place” means a place to which the public at large or a substantial group has access, including but not limited to: (1) Public ways as defined in section 505; (2) Schools and government-owned custodial facilities; and (3) The lobbies, hallways, lavatories, toilets and basement portions of apartment houses, hotels, public buildings and transportation terminals. [2007, c. 144, §3 (NEW).] 3. Disorderly conduct is a Class E crime.
All other Sanford School District Policies can be viewed online at: https://www.sanford.org/o/sanford-school-department/browse/35818
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