Student Handbook 500 Boston Post Rd, West Haven, CT 06516 Phone: 475-220-6000 Fax: 203-948-6016

Home , Magnet school

Engineering & Science University Magnet School Parent/ Student Handbook 500 Boston Post Rd, West Haven, CT 06516 Phone: 475-220-6000 Fax: 203-948-6016

esumsnh.net

Mrs. Medria Blue-Ellis, Principal Mrs. Tracey Philpot, Assistant Principal

Dr. Ilene Tracey, Superintendent of Schools

Revised 9/2020

PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE 2 SECTION VII. TRANSPORTATION 12 THE SCHOOL 3 Transportation 12 MISSION STATEMENT 3 Bus Riders 12 CORE VALUES 3 Car Riders 12 SECTION I. ACADEMIC INFORMATION 4 SECTION VIII. DRILLS 12 Honesty and Integrity 4 Emergency Drills 12 Grade Reporting 4 SECTION IX. WEATHER 12 Grading Policy 4 SECTION X. FOOD/BEVERAGE 13 Middle School Promotion 4 Procedures 13 Advanced Math Policy (MS) 4 SECTION XI. FUNDRAISING 13 Math Assessments 4 SECTION XII. SAFETY ISSUES 13 High School Promotion 4 Behavioral Expectations/Approaches/ Graduation Requirements 5 Consequences 13 Credit Recovery 5 ESUMS Discipline Plan 13 Dropped Courses 6 Bullying/Sexual Harassment 14 Community Service 6 Cell Phones/Electronics/Internet 14 Homework 6 Locker Use 14 Make-up Work 6 Building/Ground Rules 14 Assemblies 6 Gang Involvement/Weapons/Alcohol/ Class Cut Procedures 6 Drugs/Gambling/ Obscene Material 15 Textbooks 6 Student Searches 15 School Dance 7 SECTION XIII. PARENT CONTACT 15 Field Trips 7 Parent Conferences/Communication 15 SECTION IISPORTS/ACTIVITIES/ Change of Address/Telephone/Email 15 Parent/School Relationships 16 ORGANIZATIONS 7 Procedure for School Contact 16 Athletics 7 Adult Etiquette 16 Activity Participation 8 Behavior 17 Participation in Competitions/Contests 8 Procedure 17 Clubs/Organizations 8 SECTION XIV. MISCELLANEOUS 17

Event Attendance/Pick Up 8 Gifts for Students 17 SECTION IIIATTENDANCE 8 Homeless Assistance 17 Student/Parent Vacation Policy 8 Lost and Found 18 Arrival/Dismissal 9 Personal Property 18 Early Dismissal 9 Public Displays of Affection 18 SECTION IVDRESS CODE 9 School Telephone Use 18 Grooming 10 Student Parking 18 SECTION V. SUPPORT SERVICES 10 Video/Audio Taping 18 Guidance & Social Work 10 Visitors 18 Student Records 11 Withdrawing from ESUMS 18 SECTION VI HEALTH 11 Nondiscrimination Statements 18 Medications 11 Exclusion from the Curriculum 19 Accidents 11 Social Equity Policy 19 Guide for Sending Students Home 11 Section 504 Rehabilitation Act 19 Life Threatening Allergy 20 National Honor Society 21 COVID 19 Safety Protocols 22

1 Principal’s Message

Dear ESUMS Parents/Guardians,

The Parent/Student Handbook has been written especially for you and your child. For schools to be places of excellence, students, families, and school faculty must understand and support the school's principles. ESUMS believes that the school and parents have to partner in the educational journey of students. This partnership ensures that ESUMS is a place where students and staff can take on their roles with success. Your support of ESUMS's purpose and operation systems will result in a productive and successful school year.

The handbook is a useful resource that provides necessary information on ESUMS' mission, goals, expectations, policies, rules, and regulations. It is a compilation of information from the New Haven Board of Education and information specific to ESUMS. The handbook information will be used to create an environment that is safe, nurturing, and dedicated to the excellence of learning.

This edition of the handbook includes a section related to COVID 19 in- school procedures. Classroom teachers will establish protocols for distance learning, similar to how each classroom teacher has rules and procedures.

Parents, please take the time to review the contents in the handbook with your child. Make sure that your child understands what is being read. Keep the handbook readily available to refer to throughout the school year.

Thank you for entrusting your child into the ESUMS family's care and for your commitment to support the content of the Parent/Student Handbook.

Educationally Yours,

Medria Blue-Ellis Principal

2 The School ESUMS is a magnet school serving students from grades 6 through 12. The school engages the student in the co-construction of curriculum through hands-on and minds-on activities and assessments that continually ask the students to imagine, investigate, and invent and read, write, think, and speak critically. Self and peer critiques challenge students to see themselves through multiple lenses. The college preparatory curriculum emphasizes science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

The school accomplishes this by exposing students to a nationally recognized problem-based math and science curriculum relevant and rigorous with real-world problems designed to help students construct knowledge in a meaningful way. Secondly, core values and a dress code are pillars of the learning environment, as are strong work ethics. ESUMS’s primary partnership with the University of New Haven allows eligible students to experience college campuses and gain college credit.

ESUMS students are responsible for upholding the positive reputation of the school. A student involved in public misconduct, which discredits him/her or ESUMS through inappropriate, unethical, or unlawful activity within or outside the school, is subject to disciplinary consequences. ESUMS students are expected to be respectful, responsible, and honest.

The following rules/regulations in this handbook address many issues, but do not and cannot cover every conceivable situation. Hopefully, the handbook will be a guide to help all ESUMS students embrace the values that make ESUMS a school where student academic excellence, success, and social growth are practiced and supported. Mission Statement

The Engineering and Science University Magnet School, a public college preparatory middle and high school, challenges students to imagine, investigate and invent while preparing them for demanding STEM programs at the collegiate level.

ESUMS Core Values • Respect for self, community, differences, and learning • Responsibility to positive decision making and personal growth • Engagement in challenges and creative opportunities • Excellence in academics and community engagements

3 SECTION I: ACADEMIC INFORMATION

Academic Honesty and Integrity Honesty and integrity are a vital part of the ESUMS learning community. Academic dishonesty destroys the integrity of the educational process. Students are expected to rely upon their own resources and efforts in order to complete course work. Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to the following: ● Cheating: unauthorized use of prepared materials, information, or people resources (adults or peers) prior to or during testing or submitted assignments. ● Plagiarism: representing the words, ideas, works, or arguments of another person (in whole or part) as one’s own. ● Collusion: allowing one’s work to be copied or submitted and supporting in committing academic dishonesty.

Grade Reporting Progress reports are sent according to the district calendar. These reports may include commendations and recommendations. Student learning over time will be reflected in each student’s quarterly grades. The report cards will also be distributed according to the NHPS school calendar.

Grading Policy School counselors will provide information on the following: honor-roll requirements, the National Honor Society, promotion, retention and loss of credit, and AP Drop period. AP Drop Policy is to drop within 2 weeks; otherwise, students will be given a WF (Withdrawal Fail).

Middle School Promotion: Grades 6-8 Students must pass three of the four major subjects (English, mathematics, science and social studies). Students can fail no more than one major and one enrichment subject (art, music, enrichment, physical education, world language and engineering). Know that student success can be impacted by the following: performing significantly below grade level standards; missing more than ten (10) days in a school year; having significant behavior problems that result in a lot of missed instructional time; and/or having persistent trouble completing homework assignments. Students who have IEPs will be promoted to the next grade based on successful completion of the goals on the IEP.

Advanced Math Policy for Middle School If your student is placed in an advanced mathematics course, then students must perform at an 80% or above on classroom assignments AND district assessments. If BOTH criteria are not met, then students will repeat the course the following year. Parent input on this matter will not be considered.

Math Assessments (All Students) Students must show work for all problems solved. No credit will be given for correct answers on Scranton test forms without valid evidence of problem solving.

High School Promotion: Grades 9-12 High School promotion is based on credits earned. Refer to Course Catalogue on ESUMS website and/or guidance for complete information. Definition of credit: Credit is granted for successful completion of any course in grades nine (9) through twelve (12).

4 Graduation Requirements To graduate from Engineering and Science University Magnet High School, students must accumulate a minimum of 28 credits. Students are required to take a minimum of 8 credits at ESUMS each year. Students can take a minimum of 7 credits their senior year. The required credits are designed to provide a core STEM education. *Class of 2020 and thereafter will require a minimum of 28.5 credits for graduation. The required credits are: English…………………………………………………………………………………………………. 4 credits Engineering…………………………………………………………………………………………. 4 credits Math……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 4 credits Algebra 1…………………………………….. 1 credit Geometry……………………………………..1 credit Algebra 2…………………………………….. 1 credit Pre-Calculus…………………………….……. 1 credit Calculus……………………………………… *to begin with class of 2020 Science………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 4 credits Biology ………………………………..……… 1 credit Chemistry……………………………………. 1 credit Physics………………………………………… 1 credit Elective……………………………………….. 1 credit Social Studies……………………………………………………………………………………… 3 credits Modern World History………………… 1 credit U. S History 1………………..…………….. 1 credit International Issues…………………… ½ credit Civics…………………………………………... ½ credit *Class of 2020 and beyond see course catalogue STEM Elective………………………………..4 credits 2 Technology 2 STEM Physical Education…………………………1 credit Fine/Unified Arts……………………………1 credit Humanities…………………………………….1 credit World Language…………………………….2 credits Health…………………..…………………… 0.5 credit *Class of 2020 and beyond

Credit Recovery Summer School for Credit Students who have failed a major course are encouraged to attend the NHPS Summer School for a fee set by NHPS. Students are only permitted to make up 1 credit in Summer School. Courses included are English, Math, History, and Science. Engineering and Technology courses are NOT offered in Summer School. Advanced math classes may not be offered in Summer School. See school counselor for an application.

Summer School The school will accept Summer School credits from any recognized community college or four-year college or university and apply them to the student’s graduation requirements as appropriate. Selected online courses at the AP or high school honors level may also qualify. A student must review any prospective Summer School courses with his/her school counselor prior to enrollment to be sure that the credits will be accepted at ESUMS. ESUMS will not cover the cost for such pursuits.

5 Dropped Courses Students will not be permitted to make any schedule changes after the 2nd week of school. No AP courses can be dropped after October 1st without receiving a grade of WF (Withdrawal Fail). AP courses have additional requirements outlined in the AP Contract.

Community Service Students must accumulate a minimum of 40 hours of community service in order to graduate from ESUMS High School. A listing of community services and forms documenting service hours is available in the Guidance Office. Service learning must be performed outside of regular school hours and must not be performed for a family member or for paid compensation. All service hours must be documented in NAVIANCE.

Homework Policy Homework is considered a vital part of the educational process because it extends learning beyond the regular school day and is at the discretion of the teacher. Homework can help students develop good study habits and organizational skills, practice and reinforce concepts learned in the classroom, and develop self-discipline and independence. Students are expected to schedule time each day to complete homework assignments. This work may be graded for accuracy or completion. A student’s class average may suffer if he/she consistently fails to complete homework. A student can notify the teacher should questions regarding homework arise.

Make-Up Work Policy Students are responsible for missed work in the event of an absence. If a student neglects to submit missed assignments, their grade will be impacted. We suggest that upon returning to school, students ask their teachers to provide them with a list of their make-up work. When students are absent, they may contact teachers via email for their assignments. All teacher email addresses are available through our school website.

Assemblies Assemblies are provided for education and/or student recognition. There are times when classes, grades, or the entire school may gather for assembly programs. Students are required to sit with their supervised and assigned class during assemblies. Students should report quickly and quietly to the designated site and remain until dismissed. Students are required to attend all scheduled assemblies.

Class Cut Procedures A student is considered to have a class cut when he has been marked present in school and is absent from class without presenting an acceptable excuse. The New Haven Board of Education policy requires that students attend each scheduled class in order to obtain the maximum educational benefits. According to Board of Education policy, if four (4) unauthorized absences (cuts) occur in a single class, a full credit may be lost, after a total of seven (7) combined absences (cuts) all credit for the year in all courses may be lost.

Textbooks Students will be assigned textbooks for nearly every subject. It is the student’s responsibility to take care of and keep up with textbooks. If a textbook is lost or damaged, the student will be responsible for making payment. In accordance with state law, the school reserves the right to withhold grades, transcripts, or report cards until the students pays for or returns the textbooks or other educational materials. Students will not be able to participate in graduation exercises if textbook fees are outstanding. For more information regarding the NHPS textbook policy, please refer to the NHPS Parent/Student Handbook.

6 School Dances Student participation in dance is subject to teaching team approval. A parent is to pick up and sign his/her child out at the time the school dance is scheduled to be over. If a parent fails to follow this procedure, the student may not be able to attend the next dance or similar extra-curricular activities.

Field Trips Field trips are scheduled for educational, cultural, or extracurricular purposes. ESUMS field trips are extensions of the classroom and, as such, students are expected to attend. Due to the cost incurred by the school before field trips are taken, there will be no refunds for field trips should a student pay for a field trip and not attend due to medical or disciplinary reasons. Only students who are in good academic standing and who display good citizenship may be eligible to participate in field trips. All aspects of the ESUMS Discipline Policy apply on field trips. Students who have received in-school or out-of-school suspension, multiple detentions and/or behavior intervention may be given alternative educational experiences in school instead of being permitted to attend a field trip.

The following are additional circumstances that would prohibit students from attending a field trip:

▪ If a student accumulates nine (9) days of suspension from school, a school team will decide if the student is eligible to attend the field trip based on the nature of the trip. If the student is able to attend the trip, a chaperone is required to accompany him/her. Chaperones must be legal guardians or parents unless approved by the administration. No young adults or teens may chaperone. ▪ Some field trips, which require advanced payment, may result in loss of money. If it is decided that a student is not eligible to attend due to academic or behavior concerns, advanced monies paid will be forfeited. The school is not responsible for attempting to retrieve money from third parties and will not engage in dispute settling with parents regarding loss of funds. ▪ Grade level teams reserve the right to establish additional field trip restrictions regarding good academic and social standing. ▪ Teachers may require a specific dress code for certain trips. ▪ Outside field activities may be scheduled for project completion. If your child has any restrictions or limitations to natural elements, please notify the nurse.

SECTION II: SPORTS, ACTIVITIES AND ORGANIZATIONS Athletics ESUMS’ sports policy complies with the New Haven Public Schools (NHPS) District Policy. Only students who reside in New Haven may play for the New Haven Public School System. However, students who are eligible to participate in their home district’s Interscholastic Athletic Program should read and adhere to the following:

● Signing up to participate on any sports team is the responsibility of the student.

● Parents must provide transportation to their home school. Transportation is not provided by ESUMS. ● For athletic related information, please contact the Athletic Director at the appropriate school district. ● All students must meet eligibility requirements (having an overall “C” average). ● All students are responsible for all of their missed assignments and class work if they are dismissed early for a game.

7 ● Middle School NHPS sanctioned athletic recruiters may visit ESUMS to provide direct information to students regarding NHPS middle school football and basketball teams.

Activity Participation Every student should realize that participation in activities is a privilege carrying definite responsibilities. All regular school rules apply when students are involved in school-sponsored activities, whether at the school or elsewhere. Misconduct during activities or athletic events may result in suspension, or in the case of serious offenses, expulsion from the club, activity, team or school. Students who break the rules will not be permitted to stay after for a designated period including the rest of the quarter, semester, or school year. If a student is serving Out-of-school suspension, that student may not participate in or watch any extra-curricular event at any school in our district for the dates of the suspension.

Participation in Competitive and Academic Contests Students are encouraged to engage in extracurricular academic pursuits. However, fees for local, state and national contests may not be covered by school funds. The PTO may provide limited funds to students and families when requests are made.

Clubs and Organizations Students are encouraged to join clubs and organizations. Throughout the year, sponsors for various activities will announce meetings and projects. Clubs can be started with an approved advisor and approval from the Principal.

After- School Event Attendance/ Pick Up Parents and teachers may arrange for students to stay for extra support or school extension through club participation. If a student remains after school for an activity, the parent is responsible for transportation at the conclusion of event or activity. Students who are not picked up in timely manner will not being allowed to stay after school or attend events such as but not limited to dances, sporting events, etc. All students who remain after school must be with an activity sponsor or teacher. Students are not permitted to stay after school unless supervised by a teacher or staff member. Please note that if your child requires medication after school hours, there will not be access to the nurse or medication after 3:00 pm daily. Further, there is NO official after-school program and there is no security or staff to attend to students beyond 3:00 pm.

SECTION III: ATTENDANCE

Good school attendance is essential for students to succeed in school. Please call the school office if your child is unable to attend school for any reason. The student should bring in a note when he/she returns to school. Please be aware that any student with five (5) unexcused absences will receive a letter or phone call from the school. According to New Haven Public Schools’ policy, students with 20 unexcused absences will be referred to the Connecticut Department of Children and Families (DCF). If your child is expected to be absent for an extended period, please email his/her teachers to request class assignments and homework. Submit a medical or parent note if your child’s absence was medical related.

Student/ Parent Vaca tion Policy The ESUMS administration encourages parents to take their vacations during the New Haven Public School’s vacation periods. Absences from school due to family vacations are unexcused. The following will be enforced when a student is absent from school due to a family vacation:

8 Parents should notify teachers at least two weeks in advance. For a student to receive credit, all tests, quizzes, and assignments that are missed must be made up within two weeks of returning to school. Assignments may or may not be given to a student prior to the vacation period. ● If a student is absent five or less school days, the student will receive full credit providing the work is made up within two weeks of returning of returning to school. ● Assignments not made up within the two-week period with receive a letter grade of “F”. ● No tutoring or re-teaching will be provided to students who miss school due to these vacations or absences.

Arrival and Dismissal ● Students may enter the building at 7:15 am through the security checkpoint for breakfast and are officially dismissed at 2:00 pm. Early dismissal is 11:30 am. ● Students will be unsupervised beyond dismissal so be sure to pick them up promptly after all tutoring, clubs, and/or extra help sessions.

Early Dismissal Excuses Parents must come into the school building and sign students out for an early dismissal.

For more information regarding the NHPS process for absences, please refer to the NHPS Parent/Student Handbook.

SECTION IV: DRESS CODE If a student arrives to school out of uniform, parents/guardians will be called and asked to bring in a uniform before the student is sent to class. When available, students can opt to fix dress violations by selecting items to wear from the Gently Used Closet. Dress code infractions are subject to Code of Conduct disciplinary responses. Acceptable Shirts • Solid white, goldenrod yellow or navy shirts with COLLARS and sleeves may be worn. • Shirts must be tucked in at all times, collars turned down. • Crew-neck sweatshirts must be solid white, goldenrod yellow or blue. A COLLARED shirt must be worn underneath. • Long sleeve shirts worn under dress code collared shirt must be solid white, goldenrod, yellow or navy. • ONLY ESUMS logos are acceptable. Acceptable Sweaters/Fleeces/Vest/Hoodies • Solid colored zippered jackets and vests in white, goldenrod yellow or blue. • Solid navy knit or fleece sweaters, vests, or an ESUMS fleece may be worn with a collared shirt. Acceptable Pants/Skirts/Skorts • Navy or Khaki pants, shorts or jumpers. Cotton twill or polyester-cotton or corduroy acceptable. • Cargo pants • Bottoms must be worn at natural waist and fit appropriately. No skinny-fit pants. • If bottom garment has belt loops, a belt must be worn. Belts must be plain and solid. Acceptable Footwear • Footwear must be dark, closed toe shoes or sneakers of one color- blue, dark brown or black. Socks must be dark brown, navy, or white. Tights must be white or navy Athletic Team Apparel • A jersey may be worn on game day only with collared dress code shirt underneath. • No game pants or warm-up pants are allowed. • No warm-ups or practice outfits may be worn on game days. • Shirt and tie on game days is also allowed.

9 Additions to the High School 9th-12th Dress Code (as Approved by SMPT 2015)

● HS students will be allowed to tuck at their own discretion. They cannot, however, have oversized shirts or low pants. If a shirt is deemed too long by a teacher, they can ask the student to tuck. If the student does not comply, they will be subject to consequence in the NHPS Code of Conduct ● Gray and Black are additional sweater colors ● Required collared polo shirt colors will remain the same: blue, light blue, yellow, white ● Students may wear solid colored sweaters with a logo that is smaller than 2” ● Scarves and ties are allowed ● No outerwear or denim jackets ● Students have the option to appropriately wear neck ties

Unacceptable All Days, Including Dress Down Days • Ripped denim jeans (showing skin) • Shirts that expose the mid-section. • Shirts that are revealing. • Outer coats and jackets/coats must be placed in locker. • Belts with large buckles and/or studs • Clothing with holes. • Athletic cleats, beach shoes, flip flops, bedroom shoes and slippers that resemble shoes. • Gloves, costume items such as decorative headbands, wristbands, chains/apparatus, bandanas, head coverings (except for religious reasons) of any kind and sunglasses • All bags and purses bigger than a pencil pouch. (Exception: drawstring bags to carry clothes for P.E. may be carried.) • Hats and headgear • Gang affiliated clothing • Clothing deemed inappropriate or as distracting or detracting to the learning environment in the opinion of ESUMS staff *All confiscated unauthorized dress items will be returned on Friday and dress code violations are subject to disciplinary consequences.

Grooming ● Students should wear clean clothes and be well groomed ● Students with grooming concerns that cause distraction in the learning environment will be referred to the guidance department Clothing and/or air should not be so extreme or inappropriate to the school setting as to disrupt the educational process.

SECTION V: SUPPORT SERVICES Guidance and Social Work Services A Guidance Counselor and Social Worker are available to help students and parents with any questions that might arise during the school year concerning classes, educational, and future occupational plans. Students are encouraged to visit our guidance department. Students should ask teachers for a pass to visit the guidance or social workers. Some of the services provided include: counseling, student/student conflicts, schedule planning, and time-management and study skills

10 Student Records A student’s school records are confidential and are protected by federal and state law from unauthorized inspection or use. By law, both parents, whether married, separated, or divorced, have access to the records of a student who is under 18 or a dependent for tax purposes. A parent whose rights have been legally terminated will be denied access to the records if the school is given a copy of the court order terminating these rights.

SECTION VI: HEALTH Medica tions/ Health Students are not permitted to carry prescriptive or non-prescriptive medication with them at school. Parents must transport all clearly labeled (student’s name clearly marked on the container, the date, dosage and frequency of administration) to the nurse’s office. Medication must accompany the required paperwork for medications that has to be administered during the school day (i.e., oral inhalers, insulin, allergies, etc.). At the end of the year, parents must come to the nurse’s office to retrieve unused medication.

Accidents Students will be sent to the nurse in the case of an accident. The student’s parents/emergency contact will be notified immediately by phone whenever medical treatment is administered to a student, and the nurse will file an incident report. In the event of an emergency, the student will be transported to the hospital and the parents will be notified by phone.

Guidelines for Sending Ill Students Home From School Please notify the school nurse or school personnel of any illness or medical conditions for which your child is being treated or monitored.

A parent, guardian or designated contact will be notified immediately to pick up a child from school who presents any of the following conditions:

Signs or symptoms of communicable diseases that cannot be contained at school; Localized rash causing acute discomfort or systematic rash of undetermined origin as a sign of potential illness; An oral temperature greater than 100 degrees. All students must be fever free for 24hours without the aid of fever reducing medication before returning to school; Signs or symptoms of acute illness, serious accident/injury; Vomiting (not related to a single event such as gagging, positioning, mucus, running after eating, or eating spicy food); Diarrhea of two or more loose watery stools; Asthma symptoms that do not respond to prescribed medication or prescribed medication is not available for treatment of asthma symptoms; Diabetes with a blood sugar greater than 400 and positive ketones or inadequate supplies to treat diabetes at school; Uncontrolled coughing; Pink eye or purulent conjunctivitis (defined as pink or red conjunctiva with white or yellow eye discharge). The student must receive treatment for 24 hours before returning to school or provide a note from a health care provider stating that the condition is not contagious and the student may return to school; Live head lice (defined as live insects or nits closer than ¼ inch from the scalp before treatment). The student shall return as soon as possible after treatment. According to the assessment of the School Nurse, if staying in the classroom is counterproductive to the student’s education, or the safety and wellness if others, a decision may be made to send the student home. The parent will be expected to come for the child within an hour or a reasonable time agreed upon with the nurse or school personnel. In the event the parent, guardian or designated contact cannot be reached, a parent conference will be held to establish correct contact numbers, school district expectations and parental responsibilities. Any additional guidelines necessary for special needs students will be addressed in the Individualized Healthcare Plan.

11 In the event of a student medical emergency, school personnel may call 911, and the student may be transported to a medical facility via ambulance. The cost of services provided by ambulance, private physician, clinic, hospital or dentist remain the responsibility of the parent/guardian and will not be assumed by the school, school district or school district personnel.

Connecticut Law requires school employees to report any issues of child abuse including medical neglect to Child Protective Services. It is our goal to provide a safe, healthy environment that promotes learning for all students. PLEASE REFER TO NHPS HANDBOOK FOR MORE ON REPORTING OF CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT.

SECTION VII: TRANSPORTATION Transportation New Haven Public Schools provides transportation for all New Haven Residents and for students in the magnet zones. Transportation for inter-district students may be cancelled during inclement weather. See Section IX for more details regarding inclement weather and transportation. NHPS Transportation Department, not ESUMS, assigns buses and bus times and is in charge of transportation matters and should be contacted directly for such matters. All students are expected to abide by all the rules and regulations of NHPS while riding school transportation. No student will be allowed on a bus that he/she has not been assigned.

Bus Rules Certain laws and regulations govern the operation of the buses. Serious or repeated misconduct may result in suspension from the bus. If this occurs, transportation to/from school becomes the responsibility of the student and the parent. Questions concerning bus transportation should be directed to the Transportation Office at 203-946-8418.

Car Rider Procedures: ● Parents/Guardians must pull into the parking lot of the building for morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up at the designated and marked spot. ● See the school website and PTO Blog for a visual of this layout. ● Students should not be dropped off before 7:15 a.m.

SECTION VIII: DRILLS Emergency Drills Safety is of major importance at ESUMS. Teachers will go over procedures of what is expected of students in case of a fire or the need for a lockdown. Regular fire and emergency drills will be held throughout the school year. In each classroom, a sign will be posted giving exit instructions.

SECTION IX: WEATHER Inclement Weather ESUMS and/or NHPS will make every effort to use our automated calling system, Blackboard (Parentlink), to alert you of weather-related delays, cancellations and/or early dismissals. Please make sure your contact numbers are updated. We encourage you to also use local weather, radio, and television stations for weather related announcements. Follow announcements for New Haven Public School District. If school is cancelled in your home district, transportation will not be provided to ESUMS in the morning. However, transportation will be provided home. If parents are not a t school before or by the announced early dismissal, his/ her child will be made to ride the bus home. Please refer the NHPS Parent/Student Handbook for more information regarding emergency closings/late openings.

12 SECTION X: FOOD/BEVERAGE Cafeteria Procedures ● ESUMS has students who have life threatening allergies. ESUMS is a nut-free environment. See Section XIV for district policy for management of such allergies. ● Students are not permitted to have food, drink or candy in the building – except in the cafeteria ● Students use their Student ID to obtain their lunch from the cafeteria. ● Students should enter/exit the cafeteria and lunch lines in an orderly manner. ● Food must not be thrown or shared. ● No food or beverages can be taken out of the cafeteria. ● Energy drinks are not permitted at school. ● Students should not put their feet on the chairs or any part of the tables. ● Students are expected to talk and behave in an orderly manner. ● Students must clean up their lunch area before leaving the cafeteria. ● Gum is not allowed anywhere in the school.

SECTION XI: FUNDRAISING Fundraising activities will be kept to a minimum and are restricted to ESUMS only fundraising. With prior approval, student clubs or classes, and/or parent groups may occasionally be permitted to conduct fund-raising drives for approved school purposes. ● All fundraising activities must be approved by the School Planning and Management Team (SPMT) ● Promoting outside fundraisers is prohibited at ESUMS. ● Solicitation of or by any student, parent, or staff member on school property for any cause except those authorized by the School Planning and Management Team (SPMT) is strictly prohibited. ● Personal fundraising is not allowed nor is setting up a GO FUND ME account using the school name.

SECTION XII: SAFETY ISSUES Behavioral Expecta tions/ Approaches/ Consequences The New Haven Public School District Disciplinary Guidelines as outlined in the district’s handbook will bind all students. Specific to ESUMS:

ESUMS Discipline Plan In an effort to establish a healthy school community the following ESUMS practices are in place: ● Respect Agreements: Classroom expectations developed by teachers and students together for each class ● Non-Violent Communication: A teacher intervention practice to avoid conflict ● Student Reflection ● Conflict Resolution Session with a Dean: Students will engage in a restorative dialogue with Dean(s) to support their social/emotional growth and reinforce good decision-making ● Restorative Circle: A conflict resolution practice which may or may not include parents ● Peer mediation: Primarily for student-to-student conflict managed by trained mediators ● Office Referral with consequences aligned to the NHPS Code of Conduct, including law enforcement notification as required

13 Bullying/ Sexual Harassment ESUMS adheres to the bullying policies of the New Haven Board of Education, which include investigation, intervention and reporting. Bullying is defined as repeated acts by any student in the NHPS district against another student in the district that causes physical or emotional harm to a students of such student’s property, places a students in reasonable fear of harm to himself or herself or of damage to his property, creates a hostile environment at school for such student, infringes on the rights of such student at school, or substantially disrupts the educational process. Cyber-bullying is the use of technology to harass someone. Any student who feels he/she has been subjected to these acts is encouraged to file a complaint with an administrator, school counselor, or staff member. Each time a bullying allegation is waged, school staff will document and report that account to the district as founded or unfounded and steps will be taken in accordance with the Code of Conduct.

Sexual harassment is a form of sexual discrimination. Sexual harassment and sexual violence are prohibited under both Federal and State Title IX laws. Should sexual harassment be alleged and reported, the allegation shall be thoroughly investigated and there shall be no retaliation against the victim of the alleged harassment. All sexual harassment claims will be investigated, documented and addressed in accordance with the NHPS Code of Conduct. Please refer the NHPS Parent/Student Handbook for a complete explanation of the sexual harassment policy.

Cell Phones/ Electronic Devices/ Equipment/ Internet If students bring electronic devices such as cell phones tablets, iPods, mp3 players, etc. to school, the devices should be secured in a locker so as not to disrupt the educational process. Cell phones and other electronic devices may be permissible if the classroom teacher indicates they are acceptable for classroom use. Without permission from a teacher, electronic devices may be confiscated and only returned to parents. Parent pick-up of devices will be on Fridays at 2:15 ONLY. Schools will not be responsible for lost or stolen electronic devices. Students may be suspended from school if they persist in using electronic devices inappropriately in the school building. As the district considers new and innovative uses for technology in the classroom, this policy could be updated.

The purpose of providing Internet and computer network access in this district is to promote the exchange of information and ideas with the global educational community. All network use must be consistent with the policies and goals of this school district. Inappropriate use of district technology will result in the loss of technology use, disciplinary action, and/or referral to legal authorities. All Internet and other computer network users will be expected to abide by the generally accepted rules of network etiquette.

Locker Use Lockers and locks will be distributed at the beginning of each school year. Students are responsible for the safe keeping of their lockers. Lockers and locks are not to be changed, defaced, or rigged to stay unlocked. The school is not responsible for items placed in lockers. It is suggested that all items of importance to students be labeled with the student’s name. If a student loses their school-issued lock, the replacement cost is $35.00. Book bags, athletic/gym bags, knapsacks, etc., must be stored in the student’s assigned locker throughout the day.

Building and Ground Rules • Students are not permitted in the teacher workrooms for any reason. • Students should not open exterior doors for visitors.

14 Gang Involvement, Weapons, Alcohol, Drugs, Gambling, and Obscene Material All illegal activities and acts are prohibited on school grounds and at school events. All activities that engages in violence or disrupt the culture of the school environment are subject to discipline outlined in the Code of Conduct, including recommendations for expulsion to the NHPS Office of Youth and Family Engagement and if warranted, the West Haven Police Department.

*School administrators recommend students for expulsion, which means a student is given a 10- day suspension and the Office of Youth and Family Engagement schedule an expulsion hearing. An impartial hearing officer decides if a student is to be expelled. School administration cannot discuss the status of an expelled or recommended for expulsion student with non-custodial adults, including other parents.

Student Searches A student may be searched if 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 the rules of the school. The scope of the search must be reasonably related to the objectives of the search and not excessively intrusive in light of the age and sex of the student and the nature of the infraction. Please see the NHPS Student Handbook for further information.

SECTION XIV: PARENT COMMUNICATION Parent Conferences/ Communica tion Parents/guardians are urged to put a high priority on their child’s education. Attendance at Parent-Teacher Conference, participation in school events and becoming an active PTO member are strongly encouraged. ESUMS keeps parents abreast of what is happening at school through a variety of ways:

● Blackboard (Parent Link) - Parents will also receive messages via the Blackboard phone/email message system that automatically notifies you of information pertaining to the school.

● Social Media and School website – Twitter and Instagram are used to capture events and the school website is the most useful place to get information.

● Monthly or bi-monthly Principal’s Report- information about upcoming events and specifics topics sent throughout the year during the school year.

● Parent/ Teacher Organiza tion (PTO) - Monthly meetings will be held during the school year. PTO will distribute schedule. Meetings are usually held before Town Hall Meetings. Get involved and join the PTO today!

Parent Portal The New Haven Public School District offers POWERSCHOOL, an on-line grading system. Please refer to https://powerschools.nhboe.net to access your child’s grades. Contact the school office to obtain password information. Parents are required to monitor student academic and social progress via this online tool. Local libraries have free Internet access for families without Internet.

Change of Address/ Telephone/ E-Mail Address It is very important that you keep your contact information up-to-date. The Main Office should have working phone numbers for students’ parents and for alternate contacts in the event that a parent is unavailable. A change of address, phone number, email address, emergency

15 phone number, and pickup information should be reported immediately to a clerk in the Main Office at (475) 220-6000 as soon as possible. Change of address will require proof of residency.

Parent/ School Rela tionships This policy is an addendum to both the policies of the New Haven Public Schools and the policies of the Engineering and Science University Magnet School. ESUMS encourages close links with parents and the community. We believe that students benefit when the relationship between home and school is a positive one. ESUMS maintains multiple home/school events per year. At ESUMS, we believe the best role models for children should be their parents/guardians, but that the oversight of children is actually the responsibility of every adult in our school community1. We hold very high standards for our interpersonal relationships for staff and expect the same from parents, guardians and any and all adults entering our building.

The policy to enable positive parent/school relationships is rooted in our desire to have a school environment that can support our mission, vision and goals. It is grounded in the Comer No Fault philosophy as well as Non-Violent Communication (NVC) tenets.

Procedure for School Contact The starting place for a parent/guardian with concerns about their child’s educational experience is their teacher. The following steps should be taken in order: 1. EMAIL OR CALL THE CHILD’S TEACHER. Teacher emails are their first and last name followed by the NHPS exchange. An example would be [email protected]. ESUMS teachers check their emails daily and as indicated in the handbook, should respond within 48 hours when school is in session. Please limit emails to 3-5 sentences. 2. REQUEST A MEETING. If email or phone exchanges are no longer effective to communicate the needs of the family, a meeting may be requested by the parent/guardian to meet with the child’s teacher(s). 3. CONTACT AN ADMINISTRATOR. If there are additional questions or concerns about the needs of the child, please email or call the grade level administrator. Administration may suggest remedies that entail, but are not limited to mediation or NVC training and may use these strategies to conduct these meetings. 4. CONTACT DANNY DIAZ, PARENT LIAISON, NHPS. This should happen ONLY if steps 1-3 have been exhausted. Mr. Diaz will notify ESUMS Director of Schools about the concern.

Please note: Parents will not be seen by ANY member of the ESUMS staff without an appointment. It is essential that the learning process continue without disruption during the school day, as teaching and learning is our first priority.

Adult Etiquette At ESUMS, we practice the tenets of Non-Violent Communication (NVC). The purpose of NVC is to strengthen our ability to inspire compassion from others and to respond compassionately to others and to ourselves2. The vast majority of parents and guardians have very positive relationships with the staff. In an instance where a dialogue becomes combative, we will attempt to deescalate the situation using NVC. The school expects its staff to behave professionally in these difficult situations and to attempt to diffuse the situation where possible. All members of the ESUMS staff have a right to work in a positive environment free from intimidation, threats and/or violence. The school expects parents and other visitors to behave in a reasonable way towards school staff. This policy outlines the steps that will be taken when parents’ behavior compromises a safe and orderly school environment.

16 Behavior The following is a list that seeks to provide illustrations of unacceptable behavior. The list is not exhaustive but encompasses ALL types of behavior that compromises a safe and orderly school. ● Shouting at school staff, either in person or over the telephone ● Physically intimidating a member of staff ● The use of aggressive hand gestures ● Threatening/swearing at/in the presence of school staff ● Racist or sexist comments or remarks ● Breaking the school’s security procedures ● Demanding immediate conferences without properly scheduling one prior ● Email harassment, inappropriate use and/or excessive use of email

Procedure When a parent or member of the public behaves in an unacceptable way toward a member of the school staff, the parent will immediately be asked to leave. An administrator will schedule a meeting with or without district representation depending on the severity of the parent action(s) and parent concern. Mediation with a consultant and/or an NVC trained staff member may be suggested. A complaint process will be followed. When all procedures have been exhausted, aggression/intimidation continue, or when there is an extreme act of violence, a parent or guardian may be banned from the school premises for a period. Prior to being banned, the following steps will be taken:

● The parent will be informed in writing, that s/he is banned from the premises, subject to review, and what will happen if the ban is breached. ● Where an assault has led to a ban, a statement indicating that the matter has been reported to West Haven Police Department will be included. ● Where appropriate, arrangements for students being delivered to and collected from the school doors will be clarified. Students learn best when there is a positive partnership between home and school. We will make every effort to work with parents and families to insure their child’s success in school and life. This will only be possible when parents and school staff work together. These rules of engagement will help us maintain healthy relations as we navigate difficulties. We are dedicated to practicing an empathy-based method of problem solving to help support the needs of our school community. We hope parents and families will support us as we strive to meet the diverse needs of our student body.

References 1 Friends Center for Children, Parent Handbook 2 Empathy in the Workplace, Community Mediation, Inc.

SECTION XIII: MISCELLANEOUS Gifts for Students The school does not allow parents or any persons to bring balloons or flowers into school on student birthdays or other special occasions. These items can be distracting to the school environment, take away from learning time and can be a safety hazard on the bus.

Homeless Assistance Under the McKinney Vento Federal Act Homeless, students are defined as lacking a “fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence”. Students meeting this definition are protected and have the right to maintain their educational placement, are eligible for free school meals and for Title 1A services. If you believe your family meets this definition, please contact the school Liaison for Homeless Students, Kim Moore, 475-220-6000.

17 Lost and Found Any articles which are found in the school and/or on school grounds should be turned into the main office.

Personal Property We urge students not to bring valuable items or large sums of money to school. Any item that is unrelated to the educational process should be left at home. The school is not responsible for items brought to school and cannot interrupt learning to search for lost items, including missing money.

Public Displays of Affection Students are not allowed to inappropriately touch or kiss other students. As a general rule, students should keep their hands to themselves.

School Telephone Use In emergencies, students will be allowed to use the telephone in the main office if he/she has a pass from the teacher. Students who participate in after school sports should make prior arrangements for practice and cancellations. Transportation changes will be announced daily during afternoon announcements – please contact the school no later than 1:00 p.m. with necessary changes.

Student Parking NO student parking will be permitted on the UNH campus or in ESUMS’ designated parking lots. This parking is for teachers, staff, and visitors.

Video/ Audio Taping No video and/or audiotaping are permitted on school grounds without the expressed written consent of the principal.

Visitors Visitors to the school must make an appointment and state the reason for their visit. This ensures public visits will not hinder the educational process. If a parent/guardian makes an appointment, they must sign-in with security upon arrival. Parents will be excluded from school visits if they cause a disruption to the learning environment.

Withdrawing a Student from ESUMS A parent/guardian must meet with our school clerks to complete the necessary paperwork when withdrawing a student. All books must be returned and all fees must be paid prior to transfer of records. The school will release a transcript and records when a student is clear for withdrawal.

Nondiscrimination Statement It is the policy of the New Haven Public Schools district that no person shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of or otherwise discriminated against under any program, including employment. Protected classes include Age, Ancestry, Color, Gender Identity or Expression, Genetic Information, Learning Disability, Marital Status, Mental Disability, Intellectual Disability, National Origin, Physical Disability, Race, Religious Creed, Sex, Sexual Orientation, and the offer of equal access to school facilities and school premises to Boy Scouts for America and other designated youth groups. (NHPS 7/14/15)

18 No Non-Exclusion from Curriculum Because we are a public school, and our curriculum is approved by the Board of Education, we cannot accept requests for exclusion from components of the instruction. We are not able to honor requests for an alternate assignment due to desire to be excluded from curriculum that explores world cultures, religions, sexuality, or gender identity. Connecticut State Law states that the exclusions that we are allowed to honor are those requests of exemption from “family life education” and HIV/AIDS awareness instruction (Conn. Gen. Stat. 10-16e and Conn. Gen. Stat. 10-19(b).

Social Equity Policy At Engineering and Science, we respect and celebrate diversity. All students, staff members, and families are expected to embrace our differences and support one another regardless of race, religion, heritage or age. Title IX Coordinator: Medria Blue-Ellis, 500 Boston Post Road, West Haven, CT, (475) 220-6000

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504) Section 504 is a federal law that requires public schools to make adjustments so that students with certain disabilities can learn and participate in settings like other students who do not have disabilities. To be eligible for services under Section 504, a student must have a condition that substantially limits one or more major life activities. A team decides if a student is eligible. The team should include the student’s parent or legal guardian, the student (if able), and others who know the student or know about the student’s disability, such as a teacher, a guidance counselor, a school nurse, and other school staff. If the student is eligible, the team develops an individual accommodation plan. The individual accommodation plan explains how the student’s needs will be met while at school and may include health services for the student during the school day if needed.

504 Coordinators: Kim Moore and Walter Signora, 500 Boston Post Rd. West Haven, CT, (475) 220-6000

SB 453 AN ACT CONCERNING CLASSROOM SAFETY Effective 7/1/18 The school principal, when a student has violated daily classroom safety, is required to notify and provide details of the violation to (a) the parents or guardians of the student who violated daily classroom safety, and (b) when other students witness a violation, the board of education and the parents or guardians of the other students, without disclosing the identity of the student who violated daily classroom safety;

In compliance with the law, ESUMS parents or guardians of a student who commits a violation to a meeting to discuss the school's interventions to prevent further violations;

New Haven Public Schools Life Threatening Food Allergy: Student Responsibility in Management and Emergency Planning

• To be proactive in the care and management of their food allergies and reactions based on their developmental level by learning to recognize symptoms of an allergic reaction.

• To not trade or share food with others.

• To not eat anything with unknown ingredients or known to contain any allergen.

• To notify an adult immediately if they eat something they believe may contain the food to which they are allergic.

• The child may be allowed to carry his own epi-pen on his person at all times. He/she must agree to 19 keep the emergency medications on their person or immediately under their control and supervision at all times. In addition, students must be responsible for keeping control of their medications so that other students cannot have access to them and inadvertently harm themselves.

Parents/Guardians Responsibility in Management and Emergency Planning

• To notify the school of the child's allergy by providing as much information about the extent and nature of the food allergy as is known. Such information is to be updated at least annually.

• To work with the school nurse and school team to develop a plan that accommodates the child's needs throughout the school including the classroom, cafeteria, after-school activities, and the school bus.

• To provide written medical documentation, instructions and medication as directed by a physician. This may include proper authorizations for medications and emergency response protocols.

• To provide written permission for the nurse to communicate with the health care provider.

• To replace medication after use or upon expiration.

• To provide to the school all available phone numbers to reach you, home, cell phone, work, and preferably two emergency contact names and phone numbers in the event a parent/guardian cannot be reached.

• To accompany the child on field trips if possible and requested.

• To educate the child in the self-management of their food allergy including safe and unsafe foods, strategies for avoiding exposure to unsafe foods; symptoms of allergic reactions; how and when to tell adults they may have an allergy related problem: how to read food labels (age -appropriate). Education efforts should promote self-advocacy and competence in self-care.

• National Honor Society (All Honor Societies) • Membership Criteria Summary • Please keep in mind that NHS membership is a privilege, not a right and that your school’s faculty council has every authority to withhold membership. • • Local chapters are strongly encouraged to notify non-selected candidates. Some chapters also provide explanations and counseling, but they are not required to do so. • • Membership is determined by a majority vote of the faculty council, following an evaluation of candidates’ qualifications for membership. • • Students must meet the ESUMS Honor Society Criteria for Scholarship, Service, Leadership, and Character and must independently and thoroughly participate in and complete the entire membership process. • • Section 3. The selection of each member to the chapter shall be by a majority vote of the Faculty Council. Before notification of any candidates, the chapter adviser shall review with the principal the • results of the Faculty Council’s deliberations. • • Section 4. A description of the selection procedure shall be published in an official school publication that is widely available in a timely fashion to all students and parents of the school. The selection procedure shall be determined by the Faculty Council and shall be consistent with the rules and regulations of NHS. 20

• Article X: Discipline, Dismissal and Rejection • Section 1. The Faculty Council, in compliance with the rules and regulations of the National Honor Society, shall determine the procedure for dismissal. A written description of the dismissal procedure shall be available to interested parties. • • Section 2. Members who fall below the standards that were the basis for their selection shall be promptly warned in writing by the chapter adviser and given a reasonable amount of time to correct the deficiency, except that in the case of flagrant violation of school rules or the law, a member does not have to be warned. • • Section 3. The Faculty Council shall determine when an individual has exceeded a reasonable number of warnings. • • Section 4. In all cases of pending dismissal, a member shall have a right to a hearing before the Faculty Council. (Note: This hearing is required and is considered “due process” for all members.) • • Section 5. For purposes of dismissal, a majority vote of the Faculty Council is required. • • Section 6. A member who has been dismissed may appeal the decision of the Faculty Council to the principal and thereafter under the same rules for disciplinary appeals in the school district. • • Academic Dishonesty and/or Actions Resulting in In-School or Out-of-School Suspension are considered flagrant violations of Honor Society Standards. • Multiple (3) Level 1 Infractions will result in a Probation Warning. • Acceptance into Honor Society will be based on the Committee Decision. • Appeals will be heard; However all imperfections in the application process must be mitigated in the following year for candidates who have incomplete applications and/or who miss any deadline • Membership must be active: 75% of meetings, 75% of activities and 100% of financial dues. Not maintaining active membership is a cause consideration for dismissal at the end of the calendar year, through the dismissal process. • This handbook is written for our students and their parents. It contains required and useful information. The rules and policies here are subject to change. Students and parents will be informed of any such changes and are responsible for staying up to date with school rules and policies.

National Honor Society (All Honor Societies)

Membership Criteria Summary Please keep in mind that NHS membership is a privilege, not a right, and that your school's faculty council has every authority to withhold membership.

Local chapters are strongly encouraged to notify non-selected candidates. Some chapters also provide explanations and counseling, but they are not required to do so.

Membership is determined by a majority vote of the faculty council, following an evaluation of candidates' qualifications.

Students must meet the ESUMS Honor Society Criteria for Scholarship, Service, Leadership, and Character and must independently and thoroughly participate in and complete the entire membership process.

Section 3. The selection of each member to the chapter shall be by a majority vote of the Faculty Council. Before notification of any candidates, the chapter adviser shall review with the principal the results of the Faculty Council's deliberations.

Section 4. A description of the selection procedure shall be published in an official school publication that is 21 widely available in a timely fashion to all students and parents. The selection procedure shall be determined by the Faculty Council and shall be consistent with the NHS's rules and regulations.

Article X: Discipline, Dismissal, and Rejection Section 1. The Faculty Council, in compliance with the rules and regulations of the National Honor Society, shall determine the procedure for dismissal. A written description of the dismissal procedure shall be available to interested parties.

Section 2. Members who fall below the standards that were the basis for their selection shall be promptly warned in writing by the chapter adviser and given a reasonable amount of time to correct the deficiency, except that in the case of flagrant violation of school rules or the law, a member does not have to be warned.

Section 3. The Faculty Council shall determine when an individual has exceeded a reasonable number of warnings.

Section 4. In all pending dismissal cases, a member shall have a right to a hearing before the Faculty Council. (Note: This hearing is required and is considered "due process" for all members.)

Section 5. For purposes of dismissal, a majority vote of the Faculty Council is required.

Section 6. A member who has been dismissed may appeal to the Faculty Council's decision to the principal and, thereafter, under the same rules for disciplinary appeals in the school district.

Academic Dishonesty and/or Actions Resulting in In-School or Out-of-School Suspension are considered flagrant violations of Honor Society Standards.

Multiple (3) Level 1 Infractions will result in a Probation Warning.

Acceptance into the Honor Society will be based on the Committee Decision.

Appeals will be heard; However, all imperfections in the application process must be mitigated in the following year for candidates who have incomplete applications and/or who miss any deadline

Membership must be active: 75% of meetings, 75% of activities, and 100% of financial dues. Not maintaining active membership is a cause for dismissal at the end of the calendar year, through the dismissal process.

Covid Protocol

Masks In accordance with the guidelines set forth by the State of Connecticut, face coverings that cover the mouth and nose will be mandatory for all students while they are in school and on the bus. The only exceptions for face coverings are for (1) anyone who has trouble breathing, or anyone unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove the face covering without assistance or (2) anyone who has a medical reason making it unsafe to wear a face covering.

Students who have a medical reason that makes it unsafe for them to wear a face covering must present a signed letter from a licensed medical provider outlining why the student is unable to wear a face covering.

If a student refuses to wear a face covering, they will be sent home from school and be required to take part in remote learning. As a point of clarification - this is not for students who are generally following the policy, but occasionally pull the covering away from their face due to discomfort. Developmental considerations are appropriate, and exceptions may be necessary for these scenarios.

Students may remove their face covering during breaks, which will be scheduled by the teacher and school building administrators. These will occur when students can follow effective social distancing guidelines and/or

22 when they are outside. Additionally, students may remove their face covering when eating, drinking, taking part in intensive physical activity, or when they are outside and social distancing policies can be followed.

ESUMS Curriculum is: -Culturally Responsive curriculum, using diverse resources and perspectives. -Focuses on the importance of Social-Emotional Learning. -Supportive of assessment through reflection, teacher observation, and student work. -Tied to researched, best practices to support special education students as active participants. -Flexible – all the activities in the units have suggested modifications for in-person, socially distanced or remote learning applications.

Engineering and Technology Classes All efforts will be made to ensure adequate supplies to minimize sharing of high-touch materials (supplies, equipment, electronic devices, tools, equipment, etc.) to the extent practicable, or limit use of supplies and equipment to one group of students at a time and clean and disinfect between uses.

During CTE instruction, students may need to share tools, materials or equipment during the course of a school day. CTE programs may need to take unique precautions, such as providing students with gloves and other PPE, minimizing the amount of sharing. Staff and students will be properly trained in the proper cleaning and sanitizing procedures for CTE related tools and equipment. Every effort (where feasible) will be made available to assign equipment to individual students.

Physical Education, Art, Music We will follow all CDC, state, and local guidelines related to social distancing and disinfecting areas and equipment used for physical education and physical activity. PE and Fine Arts teachers will collaborate with other stakeholders to implement a curriculum that considers all students' needs, including an emphasis on adaptations and modifications of all activities to ensure the full inclusion of all students.

Family and School Engagement We will comply with all state and federal family engagement requirements (e.g., School Governance Councils and Title I requirements) during the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes providing an ability to host forums— whether in-person or virtually—so organizations such as the PTO and Student Council and others can meet. Visitors will not be permitted into school facilities unless scheduled to enter, or required by law, or otherwise required by a student’s individualized educational plan. Please note that parents/ guardians are considered visitors.

Dismissal All students exit school building by 2:15 and no students will be allowed to re-enter the building.

Arrival and Morning Home Ritual Prior to school arrival each day, please screen your student at home by checking their temperature and determining if any of the below signs or symptoms of COVID-19 are present. Fever or chills Cough Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing Fatigue Muscle or body aches Headache New loss of taste or smell Sore throat Congestion or runny nose Nausea or vomiting Diarrhea Students should NOT report to school if they have any over the above symptoms.

Social Distancing Social distancing is one of many layers of mitigating tools being used to decrease transmission of COVID-19. As such, appropriate social distancing strategies will be implemented guided by what is feasible, practicable, and acceptable and tailored to the needs of each school community. ESUMS will select social distancing 23 strategies based on feasibility given the unique space and needs of the school’s programs, as recommended by CDC’s Interim Guidance for Administrators of US K-12 Schools and Child Care Programs. These strategies may include: Increasing the space between desks. Turning desks to face in the same direction (rather than facing each other). Maximizing space between the teacher and students during instruction. Cohorting students. A cohort is defined as a group or team of students and educators with consistent members that stay together throughout certain periods of the school day. Teachers may rotate into the classroom to teach different subjects, instead of student rotations. Adjusting traffic patterns in hallways. Staggering class dismissal times.

Students or Staff exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms will immediately be required to wait in an area separate from the school population until they can be transported home or to a healthcare facility, as soon as practicable, or before 30 minutes. While separated from the school population, students will be continually monitored to ensure their safety. Any staff/student who experiences a temp greater than 100 degrees fahrenheit must be excluded from school and return with a note from their healthcare provider or with a documented negative COVID-19 test result.

Tracing to be done by the School Nurse or NHBOE Where stable classroom cohorts have NOT been utilized, schools will utilize class seating rosters and consultation with teachers/ staff to identify close contacts to the confirmed COVID-19 case in all classrooms and on-campus activities. A close contact is someone who has been within six feet of the confirmed case for a prolonged period of time (at least 10-15 minutes) regardless of face covering use. Close contacts will be advised to get COVID-19 testing and should remain quarantined at home for 14 days. CTECS will close off areas used by any sick person and will not use again before cleaning and disinfection.

School Meals School breakfast and lunch will be provided for students similar to a grab- and-go style. The food exchange will be conducted in a manner consistent with all public health and safety guidelines for social distancing.

Social and Emotonal Learning School teams that include the school counselor, school social worker and school psychologist will meet on a weekly basis to identify and monitor any students in need of social emotional support.

Students identified as needing additional support will have daily check-ins with school support staff. Students who are not in need of emergency mental health services will be offered services at school, such as small group sessions if appropriate. Students in need of immediate and urgent mental health resources will be directed to appropriate local resources.

This handbook is written for our students and their parents. It contains required and useful information. The rules and policies here are subject to change. Students and parents will be informed of any such changes and are responsible for staying up-to-date with the school’s rules and policies.