EASTON AREA HIGH SCHOOL
STUDENT-PARENT HANDBOOK AND CODE OF CONDUCT
2018 - 2019
This agenda belongs to:
NAME______
GRADE______
Table Of Contents
Absences and Attendance: Absences ...... 15 Absence During Final and AP Exams ...... 16 Appointment Procedure ...... 17 Attendance Policy...... 16 Class Attendance ...... 16 College Visits ...... ……16-17 Family Trips ...... …………………..17 Illegal or Unexcused Absence & Class Cuts ...... 17 Late for School/Class ...... 17 Request for Excusal ...... 17 Academics: ACT Dates ...... 12 Academic Requirements ...... 6 Auditing Courses ...... 6 Bell Schedule - Daily ...... 6 Bell Schedule - Two-Hour Late Start ...... 7 Bell Schedule - Special Early Dismissal 11:20 a.m...... 7 Cheating and Plagiarism ...... 8 Class Rank ...... 8 Grading ...... 8 Graduation ...... 8 Graduation Project ...... 8-9 Guidance Counselors ...... 9 Guidance Services ...... 9 Honor Roll ...... 9 Keystone Exams ...... ………………………………………………………9 National Honor Society ...... 10 PSAT Date ...... 13 Pass/Fail Option ...... 10 Health & Physical Education Classes...... 10-12 Doctor’s Medical Excuses...... 12 General Class Procedures...... 11 Missed Classes ...... 11-12 Physical Education Courses ...... 10 Physical Education Uniform ...... 10 Safety ...... 11 Promotions...... 12 SAT Dates ...... 12 Schedule Changes ...... 13 School Record Requests ...... 13 Senior Privileges ...... 13-14 Special Education...... 14 Summer School ...... 14 Temporary Medical Excusals ...... 9 Textbooks ...... 14-15 Valedictorian ...... 15 Withdrawal Procedure ...... 15 Working Papers ...... 15 Administration (EAHS) ...... 5 Message from the Principal ...... 4 Alma Mater ...... 5 Use of the Internet and the District Website ...... 34-41
2 Use of District-Owned Technology ...... 41-44 Notice of Audio Surveillance on School Buses...... 44 Important Dates ...... 53 School Closings ...... 52 Solicitations and Collections...... 47 Student Activities and Clubs...... 50-51 Student Council...... 44-48 Student Responsibilities ...... 17-33 Activity Attendance and Participation ...... 18-19 Alternative Education ...... 19 Assemblies ...... 19 Athletic Eligibility ...... 19 Athletics ...... 19 Bus Conduct ...... 20 Cafeteria ...... 22 Disciplinary Action ...... 20-21 Disrespect to Others ...... 22 Dress Code ...... 23-24 Drug and Alcohol Abuse ...... 24 Electronic Communication Devices ...... 24 Extortion and Theft ...... 24-25 False Alarms ...... 25 Fighting ...... 25 Financial Obligations ...... 25 Fireworks, Explosives and Incendiary Devices ...... 25 Flag Salute and Pledge of Allegiance...... 25 Gang Policy ...... 26 Hall Conduct ...... 27 Hall Passes ...... ……..……….….….…..….….….….….….……………… 27 Identification Cards...... 27-28 Incomplete and Make-Up Work ...... 28 Insurance ...... 27 Leaving Campus/Building ...... 28 Library ...... 28-29 Littering ...... 29 Lockers ...... 29 Lost and Found ...... 29 Lying ...... 29 Medication Policy ...... 30 Medical Room Policy ...... 29-30 Parking and Traffic Regulations...... 30-31 Restrooms ...... 31 Smoking ...... 32 Student Assistance Program (SAP) ...... 31-32 Threats ...... 33 Unlawful Harassment/Sexual Harassment ...... 27 Vandalism ...... 33 Visitors ...... 33 Weapons...... 33
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PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE
Dear Students and Parents/Guardians
Welcome to Easton Area High School – “Home of the Red Rovers”!
On behalf of the staff at Easton Area High School, I welcome you and your family to the 2018 - 2019 school year. The administrative team is committed to doing all we can to make this school year a positive experience for every student. We strongly encourage a healthy partnership between home and school in order to maximize every child’s academic and extracurricular success. Learning involves hard work by the teacher, the parent, the principal, but most importantly the student.
The mission of Easton Area High School is to challenge each student everyday to grow and progress in all aspects of their education. We strongly encourage all students to choose levels of courses that will challenge their thinking and enrich their educational experience. Additionally, we highly recommend our students to get involved in any number of our extracurricular activities. Easton Area High School offers a wide variety of programing in the following areas: athletics, music, art, drama, and literary and foreign language clubs; in addition to many others. Participation in one or more of these activities serves to enrich our students’ academic and social experience.
This handbook serves to provide students and parents/guardians with important information about educational opportunities, school programing, and expectations of student conduct. Please read over the information contained in the student handbook, as it provides necessary information for navigating Easton Area High School’s various policies and procedures. Should you have any questions regarding the information contained in this handbook, please contact the school.
The Easton community and its schools have a rich history overflowing with deep- rooted traditions. We believe it is vitally important that our students preserve our history while preparing for a fast advancing future. As stated in our mission, Easton Area High School strives to promote life-long learning, critical thinking, and responsible citizens. Regardless of a student’s post-secondary plans, Easton Area High School will support and encourage each and every student to pursue excellence. With these goals in mind, we look forward to working with you in making this school year a rewarding and successful endeavor.
Sincerely,
Kyle Geiger Head Principal
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Easton Area High School 2601 William Penn Highway Easton, PA 18045 610-250-2481
ALMA MATER
All Hail, Alma Mater (Original) The arch with its keystone our symbol of strength, The hills where the green forests grow, And the Delaware Forks bring a message of old, Where the great rivers murmuring flow.
Chorus All Hail! Alma Mater, the pride of our hearts, Easton High School, our high school so dear, We pledge to your welfare the strength of our lives, Now and ever as year passes year.
EASTON AREA HIGH SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION
Head Principal Mr. Kyle Geiger Deputy Principal Ms. Jeanette Kassis 9th Grade Principal Mr. Scott Breidinger 10th Grade Principal Mrs. Deidre Hakimi 11th Grade Principal Mr. Anderw Menard 12th Grade Principal Mr. Jeremy Poliskiewicz
5 ACADEMICS
ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS The curriculum offerings are very diversified. The offerings are designed to meet the requests of any student of our comprehensive school, yet satisfy the criteria established by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. These basic requirements are designed with the philosophy that the school exists to prepare students for their future in society. In addition, enough freedom of choice is built into the curriculum to allow for individual interests. All students must maintain 3.5 credits per semester in their schedule at all times. Students enrolled in off-campus courses may ask to waive this policy if it conflicts with outside scheduling.
AUDITING COURSES Seniors can request to audit an elective, non-graduation required sixth major course. This is contingent upon approval of the senior principal and teacher involved. No grades or credit will be awarded.
BELL SCHEDULE
The bell schedule will be as follows:
Block Period Start End Minutes 1 1-2 7:20 8:38 78
Homeroom 8:38 8:48 10
2 3-4 8:53 10:11 78
5 10:16 10:55 39 3 6 10:55 11:34 39
7 11:39 12:18 39 4 8 12:18 12:57 39
5 9-10 1:02 2:20 78 Dismissal 2:20
Students will be admitted to the main lobby, cafeteria or the gym lobby before 7:10 AM. Students are to remain in one of these two locations or outside until the 7:10 AM bell rings at which time they may go to their locker and block 1 class.
6 TWO- HOUR LATE START Block Period Start End Minutes
1 1-2 9:20 10:10 50
Homeroom 10:10 10:15 5
2 3-4 10:20 11:10 50
5 11:15 11:45 30 3 6 11:45 12:15 30
7 12:20 12:50 30 4 8 12:50 1:20 30
5 9-10 1:25 2:20 55 Dismissal 2:20
PM C.I.T. STUDENTS TO BE DISMISSED AT 10:25 a.m.
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SPECIAL EARLY DISMISSAL 11:20 AM Block Period Start End Minutes 1 1-2 7:20 8:33 73
Homeroom 8:33 8:38 5
2 3-4 8:43 10:01 78
5 9-10 10:06 11:20 74 Dismissal 11:20
7 CHEATING AND PLAGIARISM Cheating and/or plagiarism of any type will result in failure of the test and/or paper of the person cheating and possibly the person giving information voluntarily under test conditions. Inappropriate Internet use to access, copy, give and/or sell material to another party will result in a 0 for the grade. Students must be familiar with the copyright and Internet use policies of the Easton Area School District. Seniors may lose privileges. Teachers will contact parents for any incident.
CLASS RANK Class rank is computed on the basis of cumulative averages of all marking periods and final grades received in all subjects studied (with the exception of PE), in grades 9, 10, 11 and 12. Each student’s Grade Point Average (GPA) is calculated to the fourth decimal place. It is the GPA that determines class rank. The student with the highest GPA will rank first in the class.
*A students average in PE will be part of the student’s transcript.
GRADING Students are evaluated in each class depending upon a number of factors. A student’s grade is determined by the nature of the course, the curriculum, and course and department requirements. Grades will be posted as follows:
100 - 90 - excellent 89 - 80 - above average 79 - 70 - average 69 - 60 - below average 59 - 0 - failure
Final examinations will be given in all subjects. In the case of semester courses, the exam will be given at the end of the semester.
1. The final grade for a semester course will be comprised of two marking periods. Each marking period will count as 2/5 of the final grade. The final exam will count as 1/5 of the final grade. 2. The final grade for a full year course will be comprised of four marking periods and a final exam. Each marking period and the final exam will count as 1/5 of the final grade.
GRADUATION The following are the minimum requirements for graduation:
4 credits in English – one credit each year 4 credits in History – one credit each year 3 credits in Science – one credit each year (Biology required) 3 credits in Mathematics – one credit each year 2 credits in Physical Education .5 credits in Health 8 credits in Electives
Completion of Job Shadowing Experience and submission of Paper, by the end of their Junior year.
Each student must accumulate a minimum of 24.5 credits in order to earn a diploma. Any student who does not attend graduation practice will not be
8 permitted to participate in the graduation ceremony. Any student not receiving a diploma will not be permitted to participate in commencement exercises.
KEYSTONE EXAMS The Keystone Exams are end-of course assessments designed to assess proficiency in the subject areas of Algebra I, Literature, and Biology. The Keystone Exams will count for the EAHS graduation requirements. All students will be required to show proficiency on each end-of-course assessment. If a student does not receive a proficient score, they will be required to complete a Project Based Assessment.
GUIDANCE SERVICES Upon entering Easton Area High School, students will be assigned to a school counselor who will remain with them through the completion of their high school program. Counselors are assigned according to students' last names. Students are encouraged to seek the guidance of their counselor as a primary source of assistance in helping you to arrive at solutions to problems. Counselors are prepared to assist a student with course selection, career planning, meeting and coping with personal problems, planning for post high school employment or education, etc. A counselor is willing to see a student at any time he/she is free and a student does not have a class. Requests for appointments, aside from emergencies requiring immediate attention, will be honored during regularly scheduled study hall periods. Parents are encouraged to contact counselors any time they may have questions or concerns. Appointments may be arranged by contacting the Guidance Office.
EAHS SCHOOL COUNSELORS
2018-2019 School Year
10th Grade 9th and 11th Grades 12th Grade
Mrs. Young: A--D Ms. Day: A--D Mrs. Young: A-EM
Mrs. Orlena: Do--K Mr. Gordon: E--K Mrs. Orlena: En-Le
Mrs. Dorrler: L--Re Mrs. Smith: L--Ri Mrs. Dorrler: Li-Rod
Mr. Tokarczyk: Rh--Z Ms. Blair: Ro--Z Mr. Tokarczyk: Roe-Z
TEMPORARY MEDICAL EXCUSALS The Easton Area School District will review and consider approval of temporary requests for excusals from the compulsory attendance requirements for individual instruction to students confined to the home or the hospital for physical disability, illness, injury, or when such confinement is recommended for psychological or psychiatric reasons. Please contact your child’s school counselor for further information or refer to Policy #204.1 online at www.eastonsd.org.
HONOR ROLL
93 - 100 High Honors 87 - 92 Honors 80 - 86 Commendation
9 NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY (NHS) A student is selected for membership in the Easton chapter of the National Honor Society based on the following four tenets: scholarship, leadership, character, and service. To acquire membership, a student must have a grade point average of 90% for six (6) consecutive marking periods. Once the student becomes a member they must maintain their membership by keeping the 90% or better grade point average, complete service hours, participate in group service project, pay dues, and attend NHS meetings. Failure to meet these annual requirements will result in an appearance before the five Member Faculty Council for a decision of Probation or Dismissal.
PASS/FAIL OPTION Seniors only may opt to take a course on a pass/fail basis. Students and parents are reminded that only a non-graduation required elective course may be taken on a pass/fail basis. The decision to take a course on a pass/fail basis must be made no later than halfway through a course. For a semester course, this decision must be made no later than the last day of quarter one for Semester 1 classes and quarter three for Semester 2 classes. For yearlong classes, this decision must be made no later than the last day of semester one. No numerical grade will appear on the student’s report card. Students will receive a grade of P (Pass) or F (Fail). A grade of 60 or above will warrant a P. A grade below 60 will result in an F. Grades received will not be included in Honor Roll, class rank, or GPA computations. Full credit will be awarded at the conclusion of the class. Students are expected to do all work that is required of individuals taking the class for a numerical grade.
HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION CLASSES All Health and Physical Education courses are mandatory for graduation.
HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION COURSES: • Freshman year- PE9 is a semester course meeting on an A or B cycle • Sophomore year – PE10 (Fitness education) is a semester course meeting on an A or B cycle • Sophomore year – HEALTH 10 is a semester course meeting on an A or B cycle • Junior & Senior year – Each year students must select a semester course meeting on an A or B cycle o Course Options: § Net Games (PeNet) § Team Sports (PeSport) § Life Fitness (PeLifeFit) § LifeSaving (PeSave) § Weight Training (PeStrength)
PHYSICAL EDUCATION UNIFORM For reasons of safety, cleanliness, freedom of movement and modesty, the following attire is required for all physical education courses and should meet all school dress code guidelines: • Standard PE Attire: o Sneakers and socks (No boots, crocs, flip-flops, sandals, dress shoes, or slip on shoes allowed) o Black or red shorts (mesh or athletic style shorts) o Black or red sweat pants (Students are not permitted to wear jeans underneath the pants!) o White t-shirt with or without writing (sweatshirt may be worn over the shirt in cool weather)
10 • Aquatics Attire: o One-piece bathing suits are strongly recommended; bikinis are not permitted o A swim cap is required for all students to enter the pool and receive credit for the unit.
SAFETY: • Immediately report all injuries to the physical education instructor. • No jewelry (i.e. earrings, rings, necklaces, lip/eyebrow/nose piercings).
GENERAL CLASS PROCEDURES: • Cell phones are not permitted in class and should be kept in locker. • Report directly to the assigned locker room for class prior to the late bell and remain in the locker room until the teacher leads you to your assigned area. • Students will be given 5 minutes to change before they will be dismissed from the locker room to report to their assigned class area. When they reach the assigned area, they are not to touch equipment; stretch/warm-up according to teacher’s instructions, but do not engage in any activity prior to instructor’s presence and direction. • All students are to report to physical education class for attendance, including those with medical excuses and others not participating in physical education for the period. • Those not participating shall leave all belongings in the locker room, including book bags. • At the conclusion of their activity, students will be given time to change clothes (and shower upon request). • Students must remain in the designated locker room until the dismissal bell sounds. • The school and the physical education teachers are not responsible for lost or stolen articles in the locker room area; students are DIRECTED to purchase a combination lock to secure items during class.
MISSED CLASSSES: • What happens when I miss a class? o Failure to make up a class when the opportunity exists results in loss of preparation/participation points for that class. If/when a class is made up, student will receive credit for the missing classes. • When am I eligible to make up a class? o Excused Absences § Must show office absentee excuse to instructor. § Students must also make arrangements to make up any assignments or assessments missed during class. o Note from home excusing student from class (note is given to instructor prior to the class) o Field trips; Early Dismissal for Athletics, band; Student Council Meetings; Excused Vacations • When am I NOT able to make up a class? (results in loss of preparation/participation points) o Unprepared for class or inappropriate attire o Unexcused absence o Unsatisfactory participation (Professional Instructor’s Discretion)
11 • How do I make up a class? o Should be done as soon as possible, either before or following the absence o May do so during Rover Block or lunch period o “Make-ups” are available Monday through Friday during each Rover Block (periods 5, 6, and 8) outside the Athletic Training Room (Inside: 20 stair laps; Outside: 1 mile on the track; Aquatics made up in the pool). o “Make-up” proctor will sign a slip upon satisfactory completion of the activity. o Signed slip must be returned to your teacher for credit o Student should not begin activity until the teacher has arrived or it will not be counted.
DOCTOR’S MEDICAL EXCUSES • May not be retroactive: (Student has one week to secure and present excuse to the grade level nurse and instructor or lose credit for each class prior to this action). • Extended Medical Form must be obtained from the grade level nurse when a long-term medical is expected, (two weeks or longer); the doctor will specify which modified and adapted activities student must participate in (i.e., walking, swimming, weight training – upper/lower body, stationary bicycle) to earn PE credit. • No Participation Medical Notes releasing a student from all activity with no participation for more than one week will require the student to complete an alternate assignment as assigned by the instructor; this assignment will be graded and averaged in to the marking period grade as part of the Cognitive domain. Students are still required to complete all other assignments/assessments for class and are responsible for any information taught in class. If the note excuses the student from participation for one week or less, the student will be required to make up the missed classes. • Students held out of Physical Education due to a medical excuse are responsible for any information covered in class and must still take in class assessments, midterm, and final exams; while completing the designated Medical Alternative Assignments.
PROMOTIONS The following credits are necessary to be promoted to the next grade. Grade level promotions will take place in June. 9th -- 10th Grade – 5.50 credits 10th – 11th Grade – 11.50 credits 11th -- 12th Grade – 17.50 credits 24.5 credits to graduate
SAT DATES ACT TEST DATES August 25, 2018** September 8, 2018 October 6, 2018 ** October 27, 2018 ** November 3, 2018 December 8, 2018 December 1, 2018 ** February 9, 2019 March 9, 2019 ** April 13, 2019 ** May 4, 2019 ** June 8, 2019 June 1, 2019 ** July 13, 2019
12 PSAT/NMSQT October 13, 2018 ** ** TESTS MARKED WITH AN ASTERIK (**) ARE OFFERED AT EAHS **
SCHEDULE CHANGES When selecting courses for this school year, students were given ample time to consult with parents and counselors in making course selections. Therefore, requests for changes in student schedules, with administrative approval, will be done for the following reasons only: • Level change (ex. college prep to on level) • Re-assignment due to failure of a completed course • Work-release programs • C.I.T. request • Teacher recommendation
All students must maintain 3.5 credits per semester in their schedule at all times. Elective courses may be dropped/added within the 1st five (5) days of a class (not including full-year courses in S2). After this time, no changes will be allowed. A credited course must be added in place of a dropped course. Addition of a study hall will not be allowed. Level changes may be made up until the first progress report of the semester in which the class was started. In order to change a level, either up or down, a level change permission form must be completed and approved by the grade- level principal. These forms can be obtained from the student’s School Counselor.
SCHOOL RECORD REQUESTS Upon request, Easton Area High School will forward an official copy of your high school transcript to the post high school institution or prospective employer you designate. The school will forward up to two (2) copies of the high school transcript at no charge to the student. There is a $2.00 fee for each additional request. Transcript forms are available in the Guidance Office. Parents may request to see their child's permanent school records. Such requests should be made to the child’s guidance counselor. Please refer to Policy #216 online at www.eastonsd.org.
SENIOR PRIVILEGES The success of the privilege system depends on the depth of commitment by those who are involved. The specific objectives of the privilege approach are: • To instill a sense of responsibility and pride as well as encourage disciplined behavior. • To structure a school environment which will motivate as well as permit learning to take place - and not only learning in the traditional sense, but broad learning experiences which can be and are enjoyable. • To encourage and structure a more meaningful dialogue between students and educators - bridge the gap between the young person and his/her adult-oriented environment.
Privileges to students must be considered as such – a privilege and not a right. Privileges are earned and privileges may be withdrawn from those students who do not accept the responsibilities of being a member of the student body.
Seniors with privileges will be able to leave campus after their class assembly during the opening week of school. Students without privileges and who are assigned to a restricted study hall are not allowed to go off campus.
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Privileges will be granted and maintained under the following criteria: • Students are passing academically as indicated. No senior who has failed a semester or yearlong course in his/her junior year will be granted privileges until the first progress report reflects passing grades in all subjects. • Students maintain acceptable behavior as described in this handbook. • Students have no illegal-unexcused absences or unexcused tardies from school or class.
Senior privileges include: • Study hall in the senior cafeteria • Off-campus lunch. Use of car for off campus lunch with parental permission only. Food may not be brought back on campus. • Parking spot on campus.
During the school year, privileges may be revoked for the following academic deficiencies: 1. Identified as failing one or more courses upon issuance of report cards 2. Identified as earning two or more unsatisfactory grades (below a 70) during the marking period 3. Unsatisfactory progress as determined by the parent(s) or guardian(s) Refer to the senior privilege packet for more detailed information.
SPECIAL EDUCATION Easton Area School District maintains an ongoing system to locate, identify, and evaluate students who are thought to be exceptional. A parent may also request an evaluation as part of the child-find process. This request must be made in writing and should state the reason(s) why the parent feels the student may be in need of special education. Information can be obtained from the school counselor in the student's school or the Special Education Office, Easton Area School District, Administration Office, 1801 Bushkill Drive, Easton, PA 18040. It is the intent of the district to ensure that students, who are handicapped within the definition of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 or Chapter 14 are identified, evaluated and provided with appropriate educational services. It is the policy of the Board of Education to provide a free and appropriate public education to each handicapped student within its jurisdiction, regardless of the nature or severity of the handicap.
SUMMER SCHOOL Easton Area High School has a summer school program for those students who fail certain courses. The courses being offered, fees, dates of summer school, and other pertinent details will be published and made available to students before the end of the current school year.
TEXTBOOKS The Easton Area School District provides its students with textbooks, workbooks, and paperbacks. To ensure optimum usage of textbooks, students are to cover all textbooks to protect them from physical damage. In the event books are lost, damaged, and/or defaced, students will receive a second copy. The student must absorb cost for the additional, damaged, and/or defaced textbook. A receipt must verify any monies paid.
14 Students must return the textbook(s) that they were issued at the start of the school year in the same condition at the end of the school year. Damaged or lost textbooks must be paid before a diploma is granted.
VALEDICTORIAN Four full years will be used to determine the valedictorian(s). The student or students with the highest grade point average are awarded valedictorian status.
WITHDRAWAL PROCEDURE The grade level office must be notified if a student is transferring from the school district. The parent will be required to come to the grade level office to complete and sign the paperwork to withdrawal their child. The student must return all textbooks and pay all financial obligations prior to being withdrawn. This should be done on or before the student’s last day of attendance. A copy of the withdraw paperwork for the new school district will be issued to the parent on the student’s last day of attendance at Easton Area High School.
WORKING PAPERS Current students between the ages of 14-18, applying for work in the State of Pennsylvania may apply for a work permit in the Guidance Office between the hours of 7 am - 2:45 pm, M-F during the school year. Students must present their student ID and a parent/guardian, as well as the student, must sign the application in the presence of a guidance secretary. Please allow 20 minutes to complete the application. If you have any questions please call 610-250-2481. The Administration has the right to revoke working privileges.
ABSENCES AND ATTENDANCE
ABSENCES School attendance is important and is vital to student achievement. It is expected that every student will strive to be present each day. The responsibility for regular attendance rests with the student; however, the school and home share the responsibility to encourage students to attend school. The Commonwealth of PA (Ref: Pennsylvania School Code, Article XII, Section 1326) requires students to attend school regularly until they are seventeen. For those who are seventeen or older, regular attendance is also necessary to complete EASD requirements for graduation. The Board requires that school-aged students enrolled in district school attend school regularly, in accordance with state laws. The educational program offered by this district is predicated upon the presence of the student and requires continuity of instruction and classroom participation in order for students to achieve academic standards and consistent educational progress. Notice shall be provided to those parents/guardians who fail to comply with the statutory requirements of compulsory attendance that such infractions will be prosecuted according to law. The Department of Education shares that the following are the only legal excuses for absences and tardies: 1. Personal illness or illness in the immediate family 2. Death in the immediate family 3. Quarantine in the home 4. Impassable roads (determined by school) 5. Especially urgent reasons; “urgent” to be strictly constructed and interpreted by the school 6. Family/voluntary trips, in accordance with Board policy.
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ATTENDANCE The school must receive a written notice regarding the reason for the absence signed by a parent/guardian no later than 72 hours following the student’s return to school, or it will be recorded as an illegal absence. The grade level secretary reserves the right to confirm any appointments and excuses. All absences will be validated through an automated phone call generated by the school the day of the absence. This is a routine procedure to ensure maximum attendance. In the event of an absence of more than three (3) consecutive days, a doctor’s note is required upon returning to school. Failure to comply with this procedure will result in the student receiving an illegal absence. The Board will recognize other justifiable absences for part of the school day. These shall include medical or dental appointments, court appearance, and family emergency. Furthermore, in some cases scheduled, extraordinary opportunities that the school cannot duplicate may provide students with valuable exposure and experiences. In all such cases, written request shall be made by the parent/guardian no less than 24 hours in advance. Requests must include the length and dates of the absence and will be reviewed for approval by building administration. An Attendance Request for Absence Form can be completed and submitted, no less than 24 hours in advance for such request. During such an excused absence, the student is required to complete coursework or credit or grade. A maximum of ten (10) days of cumulative lawful absences verified by parental notification may be permitted during a school year. Absences beyond the (10) cumulative days will require an excuse from a physician. All doctor’s excuses are subject to review and verification by the grade level principal. When an absence is legal, the frequency of absences is still a concern. Therefore, when a student accumulates excessive absences, additional administrative contact may be made with the parent/guardian and/or medical/professional verification may be required.
CLASS ATTENDANCE All students are expected to be in their assigned areas on time. Anyone in the hallways after the bell for the start of class must have a proper pass and be wearing their ID. Illegal absence from school or class may result in the student not being able to make up missed work. Continued absences from class and/or school could impact student achievement and overall connectedness to school. The school must make meaningful attempts to engage the parent/guardian and student in a Student Attendance Improvement Plan (SAIP) to address individual student needs and partner with the family for student success. It should be understood that students who have an illegal absence may receive no credit for that day’s work, which includes a test missed.
ABSENCE DURING FINAL AND AP EXAMS If, due to illness, a student is unable to come to school during an assigned final and/or AP exam period, it is necessary that the grade level office be contacted prior to the start of the examination the day of the exam; and followed up with a doctor’s excuse or parental note verifying the illness. All unexcused absences will result in no credit for the exam grade. Any other reasons for not attending an examination must be cleared, in advance, with the head or grade level principal. Failure to comply with this procedure will result in the absence being designated as absent and the student will not be allowed to make up the examination. COLLEGE VISITS Seniors are allowed five (5) days for college visits. Juniors are allowed three (3) days. A request for a college visit must be given to the grade level principal
16 three (3) school days in advance of the visit. Upon return, the student must present proof of visit on college letterhead from the Admissions Office.
FAMILY TRIPS A student may miss no more than five (5) total “trip days” other than those in which the student is representing the high school in a competition. A request for a “family trip” approval must be given to the grade level principal five school days in advance of the trip. If prior approval is not granted for a trip, all days missed will be marked absent. No work will be permitted to be made up.
The following criteria will be considered when approving a family trip:
1. Recognized at the discretion of the grade level principal. 2. Student must be in good standing, regarding attendance, discipline and academics (must have at least a 60% in each course). 3. Student must consult with teachers before leaving regarding assignments. 4. Any make-up work requiring teacher assistance must be arranged by the student with the individual teacher(s) upon return from the trip. 5. No trips will be authorized during exams.
No family trips will be approved during scheduled state testing.
REQUEST FOR EXCUSAL If a parent or guardian wishes to request excusal for their children for reasons not provided for in the school code (special emergencies, etc.), a written request should be addressed to the main office or grade level principal prior to the child leaving school. A decision will be made based on the student's academic and behavioral records before approval is granted. Students will only be released to individuals listed in PowerSchool.
LATE FOR SCHOOL/CLASS In order to ensure student success, students need to arrive to school and class on time. If a student is not present at the scheduled time, they may be marked tardy. If a student is late to school, they must bring in a note indicating the reason for tardiness. Upon administrative discretion, attendance will be reflected accordingly.
ILLEGAL/UNEXCUSED ABSENCE & CLASS CUTS Absences from school or class result in missed instructional time. Continued class cutting or absences will impact student success and academic progress. Students who establish a history of absences (excused or illegal) may be required to produce medical verification for subsequent absences.
APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE The administration realizes that there are occasions when parents will find it necessary to request permission for their child to leave the building to keep an urgent medical appointment during the school day. Most medical appointments can and should be made for after school hours. However, if it is not possible to schedule an appointment for after school hours, then the following procedure should be adhered to: • Students must report to the grade level office in the morning and present a note from a parent or guardian stating the time, date, and place of the appointment. • If permission is granted to leave the building, a pass will be given to the student. This pass will state the reason for leaving and the
17 departure time. At the stated time, the student should show the pass to the classroom teacher and report to the main office. When the parent/guardian arrives to pick up the student, the parent/guardian will sign the child out of the building in the main office. • Upon the student’s return to school, a note from the physician’s office verifying the appointment must be submitted to the grade level office. • If returning to school the same day after keeping an appointment, the student must first report to the office where he/she will receive a pass for admission to class.
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Student responsibilities include regular school attendance, conscientious effort in classroom work, and conformance to school rules and regulations. Most of all, students share with the administration and faculty a responsibility to develop a climate within the school that is conducive to learning. 2. No student has the right to interfere with the education of his/her fellow students. It is the responsibility of each student to respect the rights of teachers, students, administrators and all others who are involved in the educational process. 3. Students should express their ideas and opinions in a respectful manner. 4. It is the responsibility of the students to conform to the following: • Adhere to all rules and regulations for student behavior as outlined in this handbook. • Report information in matters relating to the health, safety and welfare of the school community and the protection of school property. • Dress and groom to meet fair standards of safety and health and not to cause substantial disruption to the educational process. • Assist the school staff in operating a safe school for all students enrolled therein. • Comply with Commonwealth and local laws. • Exercise proper care when using public facilities and equipment. • Attend school daily and be on time to all classes and other school functions. • Schedule and complete make-up work when returning from an excused absence. • Pursue and attempt to complete satisfactorily the courses of study prescribed by Commonwealth and local school authorities. • Report accurately and not use indecent or obscene language in student newspapers or publications. All material in such publications will be subject to preapproval by the advisor. • Be familiar with Internet use and copyright policies of the Easton Area School District.
ACTIVITY ATTENDANCE AND PARTICIPATION All co-curricular and curricular activities are an integral part of the overall educational approach of the high school. An opportunity to participate in athletic and non-athletic activities is a vital part of our school’s philosophy. Representing the school and community on the field of athletic competition, through a performing group or club, carries with it an important responsibility. The image of our school and the community it represents is conveyed by your actions.
18 Any full day absence (more than four periods/two blocks) from school or classes on days of scheduled events will automatically disqualify a participant from the scheduled event.
ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION Alternative Education programs within the Easton Area School District provide an increased service environment to students at-risk for school dropout and those not maximizing their potential for school success. Such students may be in need of a more individualized and supportive approach to their schooling.
Reasons for referral to alternative education programs (Title 24-Article XIX-C of Pennsylvania School Code)
1. Disregard for school authority, including persistent violation of school policy and rules; 2. Display or use of controlled substances on school property or during school-affiliated activities; 3. Violent or threatening behavior on school property or during school-affiliated activities; 4. Possession of a weapon on school property, as defined under 18 Pa. C.S. Section 912 (relating to possession of weapon on school property); 5. Commission of a criminal act on school property or during school-affiliated activities; 6. Misconduct that would merit suspension or expulsion under school policy;
For more information, please visit the Pennsylvania Department of Education website. ASSEMBLIES Students are to enter the auditorium in an orderly fashion and fill in the rows in the auditorium from front to back. Students are expected to remain seated at all times and to be attentive and respectful to the speaker.
ATHLETIC ELIGIBILITY PIAA regulations state that a student must be passing four full-credit subjects (or the equivalent in block scheduling) in order to participate in interscholastic sports. Specific attendance and academic eligibility requirements can be found on the PIAA website (www.piaa.org). The EAHS eligibility ratio is the following (course/pass): 3c/2p; 4c/3p; 5c/3p; 6c/4p; 7c/5p; 8c/5p.
ATHLETICS The opportunity to represent your school and community through participation in interscholastic athletics is a privilege and an integral part in American education. Participation in interscholastic athletics offers lifetime learning experiences that are unduplicated in other areas of the educational program. The purpose of each of the interscholastic athletic sports programs is to help develop an appreciation for a spirit of competitiveness, cooperative effort, and drive to win fairly.
James L. Pokrivsak, Jr., Director of Athletics - 610-250-2575
Easton Area High School sponsors the following varsity sports: Baseball Mr. LaDuca Basketball (Boys) Mr. Childs Basketball (Girls) Mr. Lutz Cheerleading Mrs. Fulmer Cross Country (Boys and Girls) Mrs. Powell Field Hockey Mrs. Eck
19 Football Mr. Braido Golf (Boys) Mr. Ruhf Lacrosse (Boys) Mr. Bachman Lacrosse (Girls) Mrs. Mihalko Soccer (Boys) Mr. Gorski Soccer (Girls) Mr. Hall Softball Mr. McIntyre Swimming (Boys and Girls) Mr. Ellis Tennis (Boys) Mr. Rossi Tennis (Girls) Mr. Rossi Track (Boys and Girls) Mr. Orner Volleyball (Boys) Mr. Velekei Volleyball (Girls) Mr. Corpora Winter Track (Boys and Girls) Mr. Orner Wrestling Mr. Billman
The school also sponsors a number of junior varsity teams. Please check www.Eastonathletics.com for any information regarding athletic schedules.
DISCIPLINARY ACTION Disciplinary action taken by the school is intended to improve the student’s attitude and extinguish subsequent behavior. The disciplinary process available to the school is regulated by law and district policy. Consistency of action in a large school containing four grades is of great concern. The consistency of any action is governed by the following three considerations: (1) the objective sought in this case to help the student, (2) the nature of the student's previous behavior record; discipline records are cumulative from freshman year through senior year and (3) stated policy or precedent based on previous action. We expect more responsible behavior from students. Ignorance of school rules is no excuse for misbehavior. It is the student’s responsibility to know that which he/she can or cannot do. When in doubt, student should ask an adult.
EXPLANATION OF DISCIPLINARY ACTION 1. Denial of Senior Privilege - Privileges must be earned. They may be withdrawn for improper behavior. The length of such denial depends on (1) the nature of the infraction and (2) the previous behavior record of the student. Privileges can be denied from one day to the entire year depending on the circumstances. 2. Verbal Warning - is the strongest warning the school will issue and can be used as disciplinary probation before taking serious action to suspend or exclude a student from school. A letter and/or phone contact with parents indicates that violation of probation could result in immediate suspension or other disciplinary action. The period of probation depends on the infraction and previous behavior. 3. Suspension Pending Parent Conference - is used for violation of rules that call for suspension. The student is readmitted immediately following the parent conference. Little or no school time is lost if the parent is able to attend the conference early. It should be noted, however, that the student will not be admitted until the conference takes place. Parents will be notified by phone and/or by the student. 4. In-School Suspension - is temporary exclusion from class and all school related activities. Those who are suspended in school will stay in an assigned area under supervision. Parents will be notified by mail and by telephone. Immediately upon arrival, cell phones or electronic devices must be turned over to the in-school suspension proctor. Refusal to turn cell phone or electronic device over may result in a Saturday detention
20 and/or an out of school suspension. Suspension is usually taken when other alternatives have been exhausted or the infraction stipulates suspension as the punishment. 5. Out of School Suspension - is temporary exclusion from school and all school related activities for serious and/or repeated violations of the rules. The length of a suspension may be from one to ten days depending on the nature of the infraction and previous behavior. Parents will be notified by mail and by telephone. Suspension is usually taken when other alternatives have been exhausted or the infraction stipulates suspension as the punishment. Students who are out of school suspended are not permitted to be on school ground and participate in any school activities while suspended. Suspended students found on campus during their suspension will face defiant trespass charges. 6. Lunch Detention – Detentions are used for purposes such as tardiness to school, habitual tardiness to class, and other Level I infractions. 7. Saturday Detention - Any student who misses a lunch detention will be scheduled for a three (3) hour Saturday detention. The principal may also use this disciplinary action for misconduct or for tardiness to school. The Saturday detention is held at the high school and begins at 8:00AM and ends at 11:00AM. If a student misses a Saturday detention he/she may be assigned two days of in-school suspension. 8. Expulsion - is permanent exclusion from school. A recommendation for expulsion is made by the high school principal to the Superintendent. The Board of Education makes the final decision. Please refer to Policy #233 online at www.eastonsd.org for further information.
BUS CONDUCT Being transported by Easton Area School District transportation is a privilege, not a right. The district must assure that proper conduct is maintained in all vehicles for the health, safety, and welfare of the students. Proper conduct on the bus is the responsibility of the students. The driver is in complete charge of the bus. Students who risk the safety of others by their misbehavior may lose the privilege of riding the bus. Students being transported are expected to adhere to the following Code of Conduct and Safety: • Arrive at the assigned bus stop approximately five minutes prior to pick up. • Wait to board when the bus has come to a complete stop. • Board and depart the bus in an orderly and safe manner - single file. • Ride only on the bus assigned - boarding and departing at the designated stop. • Maintain a safe condition within the bus at all times. • Do not extend hands, arms, etc. or objects out of windows or door or throw objects from bus. • Use of obscene language is not permitted. • Electronic communication devices may not be used on school buses. • Musical instruments are not permitted unless carried in a case secured in a safe place. • Eating and drinking is not permitted on the bus. • Obey the school bus driver at all times. In case of emergency, remain on the bus unless directed to do otherwise by the driver or individual in authority. • If a student damages seats or other parts of the bus, he/she will be required to pay for its replacement.
21 • Students are to remain in their seats upon entering the bus until they are designated to depart the bus by the driver. • The district reserves the right to establish any other rules and regulations that protect the health, safety, and welfare of the students.
If a student violates any of the above rules/regulations and loses their bus privilege, the student or his/her parents/guardians will be responsible for transportation to and from school. Even though bus privileges are lost, the law still requires attendance at school per the student attendance policy. Unusual and extreme misbehavior may result in formal charges being brought against the student(s) relating to harassment, disorderly conduct, criminal mischief, and/or criminal trespass. • Driver submits misconduct report to the building/assistant principal. Building/assistant principal gives verbal warning and/or disciplinary action to student. • Second offense is a letter of warning sent to parent(s) that a bus suspension will occur on the next offense and the suspension will be one to three days as determined by the building/assistant principal. • Third, fourth and fifth offense will result in a suspension. The building/assistant principal will determine the number of days. • Sixth offense could result in permanent expulsion from being transported on a district vehicle. • The administration reserves the right, depending on the seriousness of the offense, to move to any step in the process.
CAFETERIA Easton Area High School has four 39 minute lunch periods. The following guidelines will lead to an orderly lunch period: • NO FOOD IS TO BE TAKEN OUT OF THE CAFETERIA BY STUDENTS WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION. STAFF MEMBERS GIVING WRITTEN PERMISSION MUST SUPERVISE THESE STUDENTS UPON THEIR RETURN. • Students may report to lockers on the way to the cafeteria, or upon leaving the cafeteria on the way to class. Students who are considered late to lunch (no more than 5 minutes after the bell) may face disciplinary action. • Students will bring trash to the disposal area when they are dismissed from lunch. Leaving trash on the table may result in disciplinary action. • The throwing of food may result in disciplinary action. • Seniors with privileges who choose not to leave campus must eat in the cafeteria and be on time. • Students that attend Career Institute of Technology are required to eat at C.I.T. and may not enter the Cafeteria during lunch periods.
Easton Area High School will participate in the National School Lunch Program/School Breakfast Program under guidelines established by the Easton Area School District. Individuals interested in participating in the program must secure and complete the application for Free and Reduced Meals.
DISRESPECT TO OTHERS
Students who exhibit physical or verbal abuse to school authority or who commit immoral acts or gestures and who make salacious statements either verbally or in writing will be dealt with as the degree of student involvement warrants. Threats upon school district employees (in school or outside of school)
22 or fellow students may result in immediate suspension and legal action (fine, imprisonment or both). Disrespect of a lesser degree, insubordination to an employee's directive may warrant verbal reprimand, detention or suspension. The following behaviors may result in a three (3) to ten (10) day suspension and may include a citation for disorderly conduct: swearing to teachers, obscene gestures, and/or defiance.
DRESS CODE
This dress code has been adopted in accordance with Board Policy 221, related to dress and grooming. The following rules shall apply to student dress, and students violating this dress code shall be subject to disciplinary action. All provisions apply equally to male and female students. 1. ALL STUDENTS ARE REQUIRED TO WEAR THEIR EAHS ID AT ALL TIMES. ALL ID’S MUST BE WORN AROUND THE NECK, ON A LANYARD, ABOVE THE WAIST AND IN FRONT OF THE BODY. 2. No clothing imprinted with nudity, vulgarity, obscenity, profanity, and double entendre pictures or slogans, including those relating to alcohol, tobacco, drugs, weapons and violent acts. 3. No flip-flops/thongs, bedroom-like and soft-sole slippers and other hazardous footwear deemed to be inappropriate by the principal. 4. No clothing that has been intentionally torn, cut, or ripped in a fashion that displays the anatomy (including sweatpants, jeans or jean skirts). 5. No see-through garments without appropriate undergarments. See- through garments may be worn only if worn over items of clothing that comply with the dress code. 6. No street coats, hats, and other head coverings (including baseball scarves, caps, bandannas, etc.). These items should be placed in lockers, closets, or other designated areas, and may not be worn in the building. Exceptions for medical or religious reasons must be referred to the building principal. Hoodies (sweatshirts with attached hoods) are permitted, however, the hood may not be worn. 7. No midriff-baring clothing, tube tops, or low-cut scoop neck tops, halter-style tops, spaghetti strap, open backs, or sleeveless shirts (sleeveless shirts may be worn in grades K- 4). No off the shoulder garments. 8. No oversized clothing that may be unsafe for the student to wear or risks the potential for falling off. 9. No shorts/skorts above mid-thigh. No mini/micro skirts. 10. No pajama tops and/or bottoms as well as boxer-type (underwear) shorts are permitted as outerwear. 11. All jewelry is subject to administrative review. 12. No chains, dog collars, wallet chains, or spike bracelets/necklaces 13. No apparel or usage of apparel characteristically associated with gang affiliation. 14. Any article of clothing or personal effect not specifically listed is subject to administrative review.
The principals have the right to enforce all of the above restrictions.
Parents should understand that they might be asked to bring a change of clothing to school for students who are in violation of this policy. School officials may impose limitation on student participation in the regular instructional program where there is evidence that inappropriate dress causes disruption in the classroom, and the lack of cleanliness constitutes a health hazard or disruption of
23 the educational program. Students have the responsibility to dress appropriately and to keep themselves, their clothes, and their hair clean.
DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE Students suspected of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol during school hours or at any school-sponsored activity will be isolated from his/her peers in order to determine the cause of the unusual behavior or conditions. The student will be assessed by the school nurse. Refusal to be assess by the school nurse will result in disciplinary action. The principal will review the entire incident and make subsequent recommendations accordingly, including referral to the SAP team to determine a further course of action. The student will comply with the recommendations of the team. Parents will be contacted. If the school is formally advised by medical authorities and/or police officials that the student was, in fact, under the influence of drugs, the head principal, and/or his assistants, will immediately suspend the student out of school until the parent or guardian gives assurance that the child is assessed for drug and alcohol problems by Recovery Revolutions. Any student selling, distributing, arranging for or participating in the purchase, giving away or receiving any amount of marijuana, illegal drugs, illegally acquired drugs, drug paraphernalia, alcohol, or any substance alleged to be one of the aforementioned on school property or at any school-sponsored activity may be recommended for expulsion by the principal. Parents and police will be contacted to be apprised of the situation and the student will be referred for a drug and alcohol assessment. Any student possessing (on self or school property or at a school-sponsored activity) any amount of marijuana, illegal drugs, drug paraphernalia, alcohol, or any substance alleged to be one of the aforementioned, will be suspended for ten (10) school days and a possible recommendation for expulsion. Parents and police will be contacted to be apprised of the situation. The principal will review the entire incident and make subsequent recommendations accordingly and make referrals to the SAP team to determine a further course of action. The student will comply with the recommendations of the team, including mandatory drug and alcohol counseling and random drug testing at the student’s expense. Students failing to comply with the recommendations will subsequently be recommended for expulsion. Should a student be convicted of any drug or alcohol related offense taking place off school property and after school hours, he/she will be interviewed by the principal to determine the role to be taken by the school, including referral to the SAP team to determine a further course of action. The student will comply with the recommendations of the team. Be assured that any student whose presence, in the opinion of the principal, constitutes a threat to the health, safety and welfare of the students and/or interferes with the educational process of the school can reasonably expect to be recommended for expulsion.
ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION DEVICES: CELL PHONES, iPods, LASER LIGHT POINTERS AND OTHER STUDENT ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION DEVICES Unauthorized use of cell phones, iPods and laser light pointers and other student electronic communication devices are grounds for confiscation of the device by school officials. School officials include administrators, teachers, and security officials.
EXTORTION AND THEFT Those found responsible for extortion or stealing will be suspended for a minimum of three (3) days or a maximum of ten (10) days and may involve the police. The policy on theft is designed not only to warn or deter students, but
24 also to punish those responsible for theft, however small, to the fullest extent possible. 1. Theft is to be reported to the proper authorities. 2. Depending on the student's behavior record and/or previous record of theft, the school may recommend expulsion. 3. If the item stolen cannot be recovered or is damaged, the student responsible for the theft is responsible for restitution. 4. Students who use a locker in the locker room for Physical Education must bring their own combination lock to secure their valuables. No one is to be in the gym or locker rooms without teacher supervision.
FALSE ALARMS Setting off false alarms will result in suspension as well as any other punitive disciplinary actions the school deems necessary, up to and including citation by police, in order to ensure the safety of both people and property. Offenders will be held responsible for all injuries and damages that result from these irresponsible types of activities.
FIGHTING All students, no matter what the circumstances, should make every effort to avoid fighting, including seeking help from the professional staff at the high school. Students who engage in physical confrontations will be suspended from school and school activities for a minimum of five (5) days. When it is impossible to determine the identity of the aggressor(s), the principal will recommend both offenders be removed from school temporarily or permanently through a recommendation for expulsion. Students who engage in fighting or instigate a fight while in school or on school campus, may in addition to suspension and loss of all privileges, be charged by the police with disorderly conduct and/or inciting to riot, be issued a summons or arrested, and/or liable for fines determined by the court.
FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS At times students owe library fines, textbooks, lost, stolen and/or damaged (beyond normal wear and tear of play/practice athletic equipment, etc.). Normal courtesies direct that these obligations be paid without delay. Students who fail to satisfy their financial obligations place their promotion and release of academic information in jeopardy. No records are released if fines are owed. All financial obligations, library fines, damaged book fines and school district issued materials, including books, must be paid or returned or Power School access will be denied and/or diploma will be held.
FIREWORKS, EXPLOSIVES & INCENDIARY DEVICES Any student in possession of fireworks, explosives or incendiary devices (including smoke or stink bombs) in school, on school grounds, school buses, or at school sponsored activities will automatically be suspended for a minimum of five (5) school days. Selling or setting off any of these devices may result in a ten (10) day suspension out of school and charges being filed with the police.
FLAG SALUTE AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE It is the responsibility of every citizen to show proper respect for his/her country and its flag. Each morning, via announcement from the main office, students will be asked to stand and pledge the flag. Students who choose to refrain from such participation shall respect the rights and interest of classmates who do wish to participate.
25 GANG POLICY Purpose: The Board recognizes the importance of providing a safe learning and working environment for students, employees and visiting community members and that the presence of gang activity and deviant behavior of an individual threatens the safety of the school environment.
Definition: A “gang” shall be defined as individuals with a common interest, bond or activity whose purpose includes the commission of illegal acts and who refer to themselves by a group name or designation. The definition of a “gang” shall also include what is commonly known as a “hate” group.
Authority: It is the District’s policy to prohibit on school property or at any school activity the: 1. Wearing, possessing, using, distributing, displaying or selling of any clothing, jewelry, emblem, badge, symbol, sign or other thing which is evidence of membership in or affiliation with any gang. 2. Commission of any act or omission, or the use of any speech, either verbal or non-verbal (gestures, handshakes, etc.), which shows membership in or affiliation with any gang. 3. Use of any speech or committing any act or omission in furtherance of the interests of any gang or gang activity, including, but not limited to: a. Soliciting others for membership in any gangs. b. Requesting any person to pay for “protection” or otherwise intimidating or threatening any person. c. Committing any illegal act or violation of school district policies. d. Inciting another person to act with physical violence upon any other person.
Implementation: 1. Any School District employee or any person with knowledge of suspected signs of activity shall report the activity to his/her administrator, school resource officer, school police or security officers. Students, parents and community members are encouraged to report any suspected gang activity. 2. Administrators shall be aware that the occurrence of any of the acts described above does not necessarily constitute gang activity unless the entire definition of “gang” is met. 3. Violations of this policy will result in disciplinary actions as defined in the student handbook, which may include suspension and/or expulsion from the school’s educational, extra-curricular or athletic programs. 4. Notification of this policy shall be given to all students and employees. 5. Any clothing, jewelry, emblems, badges, symbols or signs shall be identified by school administrators. Administrators shall consult with police and district security to help them determine what is gang- related, such as clothing, jewelry, emblems, badges, symbols or signs.
Administration shall report all incidents consistent with procedural guidelines to the Central Administration and School District Security Coordinator.
TITLE: Gang Policy ADOPTED: August 22, 2005
26 HALL CONDUCT • All movement between classes shall be orderly and reasonably fast. There is a five (5) minute passing time. • There shall be no loitering in the halls or outside of classrooms and other areas of the building at any time before school, during changing of classes, lunch, etc. Students are to move directly to scheduled areas, enter, and be seated. Teachers are to move students into their classes from the hall. • Students are expected to be on time for class and should not be in the halls once the bell rings for the start of class.
HALL PASSES Hall passes are required when given permission to leave the classroom. When a teacher excuses a student from class or study hall, that teacher must ensure the student has a pass with them prior to leaving the classroom. When the student is granted permission to leave the classroom, it is the student’s responsibility to make certain that he/she returns to class in a reasonable amount of time. Based on the frequency of the student leaving class, the teacher may not grant the request. The teacher will use his/her professional judgment in the matter.
UNLAWFUL HARASSMENT/SEXUAL HARASSMENT The Easton Area School District seeks to establish and maintain an educational climate for students and employees and a safe and supportive school environment. Members of the school community are expected to treat each other with mutual respect and to accept the rich diversity. It shall be a violation of the Unlawful Harassment/Sexual Harassment Policy #248 for any member of the Easton Area School District staff to harass another staff member or student though conduct or communications of an unlawful nature as defined in Section II. It shall also be a violation of this policy for students to harass other students through conduct or communications of an unlawful nature as defined in Section II. Violations of the policy which, in the judgment of the investigating school official, may also constitute a violation of the harassment or stalking provisions of Section 2709 of the Pennsylvania Crimes Code, shall be referred to the appropriate law enforcement agency for investigation. Please refer to Policy #248 online at www.eastonsd.org. Harassment is unwanted and unwelcomed sexual behavior which interferes with your right to get an education or to participate in school activities. It may result from words or conduct that offend, stigmatize or demean a student. The target of the harassment and the perpetrator do not have to agree about what is happening; harassment is subjective. Nor do you have to get others, whether your peers or school officials, to agree with you. Harassment can be a one-time occurrence or multiple occurrences. Some forms of harassment are also crimes and will be reported to police and prosecutors.
IDENTIFICATION CARDS For purposes of safety and identification, an Easton Area High School photo ID must be worn at all times by students and staff. This school issued photo ID is not to be altered in any way. The ID must be visible and worn around the neck, on a lanyard, above the waist and in front of the body. All teachers will check for ID’s daily. Refusal to properly display the required ID will result in disciplinary action at the discretion of the grade level principal. Students must wear their own ID and have only one ID around their neck. A replacement fee will be charged for lost, stolen or defaced cards. Replacement ID’s will be taken in the Security
27 Office. Students must retain their ID until graduation. Not getting a new ID due to lack of funds will not excuse you from disciplinary action.
INCOMPLETE WORK AND MAKE-UP REQUIREMENTS Incompletes will be listed as a failure until made up. Students are required to make up all work missed due to an excused absence. One day of make-up time will be allotted for each day of an excused absence. It is the responsibility of the student to schedule make-up work with the teachers. In the event of a single day absence on the date of a preannounced test, project, or other assignment, the work must be completed or submitted on the date of return to school. Students must complete all make-up work within the allotted time. In the event of extenuating circumstances, extensions may be granted by the administration upon review. INSURANCE The Easton Area School District will cooperate with a private insurance firm in offering students a low-cost insurance program. Students who want to participate in this insurance program will be given an application form in homeroom during the first week of school. In general, policies provide protection for medical, surgical, and dental expenses resulting from school injuries which are in excess of any benefits provided by each participant's family hospitalization insurance (Blue Shield, Blue Cross, etc.). All students are encouraged to participate in the school insurance program.
LEAVING CAMPUS/BUILDING Once a student arrives on campus they are not to leave the school campus/building without specific written permission from their principal or disciplinary action will result. Students wo return to campus are subject to a search by school administration. Students who are off campus may be stopped and have ID's checked by the police and/or security staff. Those without proper identification will be returned to the high school for disciplinary action.
LIBRARY The high school library serves as a place for students to complete their immediate and long-term assignments. The library staff wishes to provide an atmosphere that is conducive to learning and supportive of intellectual curiosity. It is a place for academic research and study where a variety of materials and services are provided to support curriculum and to help foster a lifelong interest in acquiring knowledge. Easton Area High School library provides staff and students with state-of-the-art resources such as: Access PA, internet access, computerized databases, college and career materials, books, periodicals, and photocopies for ten cents per copy. Students should request the two-part writing lab/library pass from their subject teachers. Then, instead of reporting to their study hall, students should go directly to the library. Students are expected to report to the library before the bell. Study hall teachers are notified as to which students are in the library. Books are circulated for two (2) weeks with the option of renewal if another person has not requested the books. The fine for overdue books is ten cents per school day. Excused absences are not counted. Students who have lost or damaged materials need to pay replacement costs.
General rules for the library are as follows: 1. No food or drink is permitted in the library. 2. Student ID is required to check books out.
28 3. Theft of library materials may result in suspension. 4. The library is open 7:10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:10 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
LITTERING Littering in and/or outside the building may result in disciplinary action. The building and campus must be kept clean and free of litter.
LOCKERS Students will be assigned a locker, upon request, by their grade level office. Students are responsible for any damages. 1. Lockers may be used at any time during the day. 2. Lockers are to be used for storage of clothes, books and other items necessary for school activities. 3. Lockers are to be locked at all times. 4. Students are responsible for the condition of their lockers at all times. The school reserves the legal right to maintain proper locker condition through inspection if necessary. 5. Students are not to share lockers with other students. The school will not be held responsible for items lost or stolen. 6. Any insignias, signs, pictures, etc. are not to be attached in or outside the locker except when decorated for school activities (sports, Easton Area High School Day, etc.). No writing is permitted anywhere on a locker. A fee will be assessed if these items must be removed. 7. Students shall not expect privacy regarding items placed in school lockers; school property is subject to search at any time by school officials. When school authorities have a reasonable suspicion that the locker contains material, which pose a threat to the health, welfare and safety of students in the school, student lockers may be searched without prior warning. 8. The principal can make a request for the drug-sniffing dog through the local police department. School officials may conduct periodic or sweeping searches of all lockers. At the end of every school year students must remove all items from their lockers by the specified date.
LOST AND FOUND The lost and found is located in the cafeteria. Students finding lost articles should bring them to the main security desk. Valuables such as rings, eyeglasses, wallets, etc. are kept separately and secured. Items will be held until the end of the school year.
LYING Lying to protect oneself or others may result in disciplinary action, including suspension.
MEDICAL ROOM POLICY The nurses’ offices at EAHS are located in Room D112 by the main gym for grades 9 and 10 and Room C203 by the cafeteria for grades 11 and 12. There is a nurse in charge of each facility. A school doctor visits the school periodically. The doctor gives physical examinations to all members of the school’s athletic teams and to students in grade 11 with parental permission. Students with medical conditions that require accommodations such as elevator keys, hall passes, student escorts, etc. should be provided that directive from their healthcare provider. Elevator keys are obtained through the Security Office and require a $5.00 deposit.
29 Students must get a health room slip from their scheduled teacher before coming to the Health Room. Emergencies are accepted at any time. Students are not to stop in the Health Room between classes as this may result in an unexcused tardy to class. Students need to be assessed by the nurse to be excused from school. In order to be excused to go home the nurse must be able to reach a parent or other person designated on the emergency card or in PowerSchool. If a parent or designee is not available, a parent may give permission for an alternate person having appropriate ID to pick up their child. Please be sure to turn in the white medical emergency card that is handed out in the beginning of the year. Students are not allowed to call or text parents in order to be released. After examination by the nurse, if it is found that the student is to be sent home, he/she will receive a blue slip. The blue slip must be signed by a parent/guardian and returned to the grade level office when the student returns to school. An excuse from a health care provider is required for an extended release from physical education classes and the provider must also give permission for athletic participation to any pupil, with a known physical condition. Excusal from physical education, written by a doctor, for a day or longer periods of time for medical reasons must be turned into the nurse. Present these requests to the nurse, not the physical education instructor, then report to the physical education class. Students medically excused from regular gym classes will be required, if physically able, to participate in adaptive physical education classes. The nurse cannot excuse a student from physical education. If your grade level nurse’s office is closed during an emergency go to the other nurse’s office.
MEDICATION POLICY If your child needs to take medication in school, whether it is prescription or over-the-counter medications, the procedure is as follows:
1. Complete and return EASD’s Medication Authorization Form that provides the nurse with doctor’s prescription AND parent/guardian permission to administer the medication. This form can be found on our school website or in the nurse’s office.
2. Bring the medication in its original container to the nurse’s office. Children MAY NOT transport medication to school per district policy.
3. Parents will be notified to refill the supply of medication in school as needed, and will receive notification at the end of the year to pick up any remaining medication by the last day of school.
PARKING AND TRAFFIC REGULATIONS Easton Area High School has designated reserved parking areas for students, teachers and other school employees. Parking is a privilege that must be earned. Empty parking spaces do not warrant a student parking on campus without permission. In order to park on campus, students must secure a reserved parking space tag. A non-refundable fee will be assessed for the tag. Students will then be required to park in the numbered space corresponding to the number on the tag. Easton Area High School and the Easton Area School District assume no responsibility for vehicles or personal property. Students with Easton Area High School issued parking tags are permitted to park at their own risk. Any incidents of vandalism or physical damage and/or theft must be handled through the student and/or parent’s personal auto or homeowner’s insurance. Easton Area
30 High School and the Easton Area School District does not provide secure parking at any time. When all spaces are allotted, no more tags will be issued. In the event a tag is lost, a new tag must be secured and a $10.00 replacement fee paid. • Observe and practice the 15 M.P.H. speed limit on school grounds. • Park only in your assigned parking space. • No parking is permitted in the main driveway; this is for visitors’ and handicapped parking only. • Park in legal spaces only - do not block stairways leading to the parking lots or park on the grass, etc. • Observe all safety regulations. • Parking tags must be placed on the inside rearview mirror with the number clearly visible. • Parking tags are not transferable from one student to another. • Parking off campus in surrounding neighborhoods or business establishments is prohibited. Cars parked in these areas are towed at the owner’s expense. • Seniors who lose privileges may also lose parking. • Cars illegally parked will be ticketed and/or towed from the parking area at your expense. Students are not to loiter in or use parking lot areas for any purpose unless the area is designated for specific recreation. Students are not to sit in their cars during school hours. Failure to abide by these rules will result in the withdrawal of the privilege of parking or driving on school property, and the loss of all privileges, and a possible fine.
RESTROOMS The school will make every attempt to keep restrooms clean and functioning as well as maintain the proper supplies for your use. Please help us keep these areas clean and as pleasant as possible. Smoking, writing on walls and partitions, and other acts that damage property make the restrooms unpleasant. Any student feeling ill must report to the nurse’s office. Use of the restrooms for this purpose will not be accepted as an excuse for missed class(es). No more than one person is to occupy a restroom toilet cubicle at any time. Violation of this rule may result in disciplinary action.
STUDENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (SAP) The Easton Area School District values each member of its school community and believes that all individuals have the right to develop to their fullest potential. We recognize that chemical abuse and dependency as well as other risky behaviors seriously impair the ability of individuals to achieve that success. Behaviors that put students at-risk include chemical abuse, drinking alcohol, eating disorders, social and emotional problems have an adverse effect on the ability of all members of the school community to achieve personal and district educational goals. The Student Assistance Program (SAP) is based on the belief that chemical dependency is a life-threatening illness that impacts the emotional, physical, intellectual and social development of all individuals. Because it is also our conviction that these behaviors are treatable, the Easton Area School District has adopted the following policy: The Student Assistance Program is a way to identify students at-risk who are having problems in school and refer them for help. It is an intervention, not a treatment. The heart of the program is the Student Assistance Team, a core group of school personnel who are specially trained to identify and work with these students.
31 The Easton Area High School Support Team is composed of faculty and school administrators trained in the process of identifying and documenting behaviors of at-risk students. It is considered a helping mechanism, which works within the structure of the school's disciplinary system to provide a response to the problems of adolescents in school that are a direct manifestation of the students' lifestyles. The Easton Area High School Support Team is composed of faculty, counselors, school administrators and other staff trained in the process of identifying and documenting behaviors of students at-risk of substance involvement and dependence. The process begins with an information gathering survey in order to distinguish between adolescent problems, which can be resolved internally, through a team-based discussion based on identified student needs. SAP does not diagnose students but rather assesses whether behavioral patterns for presentation to the student and family for consideration of the best course of intervention.
SMOKING Students are not permitted to have tobacco in any form in their possession while on school grounds, at school sponsored activities, or on school sponsored transportation. Tobacco includes a lighted or unlighted cigarette, pipe, or other lighted smoking product, and smokeless tobacco in any form. Additionally, other smoking devices such as E-cigarettes, vape pens, or vaporizers are prohibited. Any student seen or caught using any tobacco smoking device in any form will face disciplinary action up to and including suspension from school. Student smoking or use of smokeless tobacco is not permitted anywhere in school or on school grounds outside the building. If a student or more than one student is in a restroom or a toilet cubicle and smoke is visible in sufficient quantity to indicate smoking is or has taken place, all students in the restroom area or cubicle shall be considered in violation of the no smoking policy unless the smoker(s) identifies himself/herself. Lookouts or those warning or protecting smokers may receive disciplinary action.
SMOKING OFFENSES A smoking offense may result in a suspension, in addition to penalties under Act 145 of the School Tobacco Control of Pennsylvania. Act 145 of 1996 amends the Crimes Code to include language-prohibiting students from possessing or using tobacco in a school building, a school bus or on school property. School districts are granted the authority to initiate prosecution for any such offense. Upon conviction, a student will be found guilty of a summary offense and subject to a fine of up to $50.00 plus court costs. The court may admit the student to an adjudication alternative in lieu of the fine. Such a summary offense is not reportable as a criminal act. Amending Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, further providing for deceptive business practices; AND PROHIBITING USE OF TOBACCO IN SCHOOLS. The General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania hereby enacts as follows: SECTION 2. TITLE 18 IS AMENDED BY ADDING A SECTION TO READ: § 6306.1. USE OF TOBACCO IN SCHOOLS PROHIBITED. (A) OFFENSE DEFINED - A PUPIL WHO POSSESSES OR USES TOBACCO IN A SCHOOL BUILDING, A SCHOOL BUS OR ON SCHOOL PROPERTY OWNED BY, LEASED BY OR UNDER THE CONTROL OF A SCHOOL DISTRICT COMMITS A SUMMARY OFFENSE
32 THREATS Threats of any kind, including terroristic threats, directed toward employees of the school district (in or out of school) and/or fellow students may result in immediate suspension and legal action (fine, imprisonment or both).
VANDALISM Students caught defacing the building, grounds, equipment, or willfully destroying school property and personal property of school district employees in any way shall be immediately suspended from school and school-related activities for a minimum of three (3) or more days. At the end of the suspension period, the student and the parent(s)/guardian(s) will be responsible for paying restitution for the damages.
VISITORS All visitors must report to the main security desk upon entering the building and obtain a visitor’s pass. All visitors must have a valid form of identification in order to obtain a Visitor’ Badge. No student visitors are permitted during the school day.
WEAPONS Possession of a weapon on school property is a crime. Weapon is defined in Penna. Crimes Code 18 Penna. C.S.A. Section 912 as follows: The term shall include but not limited to any knife, cutting instrument, cutting tool, nun-chuck stick, firearm, shotgun, rifle, replica of a weapon, and/or any other tool, instrument or implement capable of inflicting serious bodily injury. In addition to the items enumerated above, weapons defined in Pennsylvania Statute Title 18, Easton Area School District Policy also included items such as mace, pepper spray, and/or other items capable of inflicting serious bodily injury. Students in violation of the school district’s Weapons Policy will be subject to discipline and may incur criminal charges.
A student possessing a weapon on school grounds, at any school-sponsored activity, or on school buses will be subject a suspension. If the weapon is a firearm of any type, loaded or unloaded, the punishment will be a recommendation for expulsion. The Easton Area School District reserves the right to periodically conduct weapon searches of the entire school population of a building. In the interest of providing a safe learning environment, students may be subject to a search upon arriving on the school campus or entering the building. School personnel and/or police officials will conduct the searches. Students will be required to stand in a line before a table and empty their pockets while their backpacks, coats, purses, etc. are searched. Handheld metal scanners may be utilized in the search. In the event the search area becomes too crowded, students will be chosen at random, or be checked before disembarking from school buses. This procedure extends to students entering the building for activities such as dances and other extracurricular activities. Anyone desiring to anonymously report a safety concern or hazard which may jeopardize the safety of others, the Easton Area School District, its students or employees, should direct his or her correspondence to the respective building Principal or the Office of the Superintendent if applicable. Please call the district’s anonymous safety hotline number at (610) 250-2400, extension #35411 to leave a message.
33 USE OF THE INTERNET AND THE DISTRICT’S NETWORK
815. USE OF THE INTERNET AND THE DISTRICT’S NETWORK 1. Purpose The District is committed to ensuring internet safety to the greatest extent possible. This Policy governs the appropriate use of the District’s network, District-owned technology and the internet, as set forth, below. The provisions of this policy apply to all use of the District’s network, both on and off campus as well as student and employee access to/use of the internet during school hours, on school grounds and during school-sponsored activities. 2. Authority Access to the School district’s network is a privilege, not a right. The school district reserves the right to deny access to prevent unauthorized, inappropriate or illegal activity, and may revoke those privileges and/or administer appropriate disciplinary action. The school district will cooperate to the extent legally required with ISP, local, state and federal officials in any investigation concerning or related to the misuse of the District’s network. 47U.S.C. 254(1); 24 P.S. 510 24 P.S. 4604. The school district reserves the right to: 1. Discontinue network availability and/or access at any time for any or all users for any reason; 2. Determine which network services and/or District technology will be provided through school district resources; 3. Determine the types of files that may be stored on school district file servers and computers; 4. View and monitor network traffic, fileserver space, processor, and system utilization, and all applications provided through the District’s network and electronic communications systems and/or on District technology, including e-mail, text messages, and other electronic communications; 5. Remove from the network, District servers or District-owned devices excess email and other electronic communications or files for any reason; and 6. Revoke user privileges, remove user accounts, or refer to legal authorities, and or school district authorities when violation of this and any other applicable school district policies, regulations, rules, and procedures occur or ISP terms, or local, state or federal law is violated, including, but not limited to, those governing network use, copyright, security, privacy, employment, vendor access, and destruction of School district resources and equipment. 3. Definitions Child Pornography - Under federal law, this term means any visual depiction, including any photograph, film, video, picture, or computer or computer- generated image or picture, whether made or produced by electronic, mechanical, or other means, of sexually explicit conduct, where: 1. The production of such visual depiction involves the use of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct;
34 2. Such visual depiction is a digital image, computer image, or computer- generated image that is, or is indistinguishable from, that of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct; or 3. Such visual depiction has been created, adapted, or modified to appear that an identifiable minor is engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Under Pennsylvania law, the term means any book, magazine, pamphlet, slide, photograph, film, videotape, computer depiction or other material depicting a child under the age of eighteen (18) years engaging in a prohibited sexual act or in the simulation of such act. For the purposes of this Policy, Child Pornography includes material/content that meets either the Pennsylvania or the federal standard or both. District-owned Devices/District-Owned Technology – Definition shall be consistent with Board Policy 815.1 Harmful to Minors - Under federal law, this term means any picture, image, graphic image file or other visual depictions that: 1. Is taken as a whole, with respect to minors, appeals to the prurient interest in nudity, sex, or excretion. 2. Depicts, describes, or represents in a patently offensive way with respect to what is suitable for minors, an actual or simulated sexual act or sexual content, actual or simulated normal or perverted sexual acts, or lewd exhibition of the genitals. 3. Taken as a whole lacks serious literary, artistic, political, educational or scientific value as to minors. Under Pennsylvania law, this term means any depiction or representation in whatever form, of nudity, sexual conduct, sexual excitement, or sadomasochistic abuse, when it: 1. Predominantly appeals to the prurient, shameful, or morbid interest of minors. 2. Is patently offensive to prevailing standards in the adult community as a whole with respect to what is suitable for minors. 3. Taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political, educational or scientific value for minors. For the purposes of this Policy, “harmful to minors” includes material/content that meets either the Pennsylvania or the federal standard or both. Incidental Personal Use – This term refers to use of the internet by District that does not interfere with the employee’s job duties and performance, with system operations, or with other system users. Incidental personal use must comply with this policy, accompanying administrative procedures, and all other applicable school district policies, regulations, procedures and rules, as well as ISP terms, local, state and federal laws, and must not damage the school district’s systems. Minor – This term for purposes of compliance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (“CIPA”), an individual who has not yet attained the age of seventeen (17). For other purposes, “minor” shall mean the age of minority as defined in the relevant law. Network – The term “network”, for the purposes of this Policy, includes the District’s server(s) and any and all access to the information stored thereon,
35 whether retrieved through a wired device or wireless access, including the use and/or access to the internet or other servers or networks through the District’s server. The term also expressly includes any system linking two (2) or more District-owned electronic devices. Obscene - under federal law, analysis of the material meets the following elements: 1. Whether the average person, applying contemporary community standards, would find that the material, taken as a whole, appeals to the prurient interest. 2. Whether the work depicts or describes, in a patently offensive way, sexual conduct specifically designed by the applicable state or federal law to be obscene. 3. Whether the work taken as a whole lacks serious literary, artistic, political, educational, or scientific value. Under Pennsylvania law, analysis of the material meets the following elements: 1. The average person, applying contemporary community standards, would find that the material, taken as a whole, appeals to the prurient interest. 2. The subject matter depicts or describes in a patently offensive way, sexual conduct described in the law to be obscene. 3. The subject matter, taken as a whole lacks serious literary, artistic, political, educational or scientific value. For the purposes of this Policy, “obscene” includes material/content that meets either the Pennsylvania or the federal standard or both. For the purposes of this Policy, “obscene” shall also include any and all gratuitous nudity or partial nudity without social or artistic value or nude/partially nude images that are being accessed for prurient purposes regardless of the images’s intrinsic social or artistic value. This definition shall expressly include all forms of sexting and the sending, viewing or possession of nude or partially nude photographs via cell phone, email, internet, social media, or other electronic form. Sexual Act and Sexual Contact – This term shall be interpreted consistent with 18 U.S.C. Sec. 2246, and at 18 Pa. C.S.A. Sec. 5903. Social Media – The term “social media”, for the purposes of this Policy, includes all web-based services that allow individuals to (1) construct a public or semi- public profile within a bounded system, (2) articulate a list of other users with whom they share a connection, and (3) view and traverse their list of connections and those made by others within the system. Such sites include Facebook and MySpace. The term shall also expressly include all other interactive websites, such as blog sites and microblogs (such as Twitter), virtual worlds (such as World of Warcraft, Second Life), video/audio/photo sharing sites (such as Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube, Flickr, photo upload sites, etc.), instant messaging, podcasts, chatrooms and other interactive online forums. This term shall also expressly include all non-District email accounts and sites. This term expressly excludes collaborative websites that are contained within the District’s web domain (www.eastonsd.org) or District-sponsored collaboration sites for which the building or District administration has approved and has provided assurance, in writing, that the site does not permit collaboration by members of the public outside of the school, meets the safety and quality standards and requirements set forth in this Policy.
36 Technology Protection Measure(s) – This includes, but is not limited to, the use of a specific technology that block(s) or filter(s) Internet access to visual depictions that are obscene, child pornography or harmful to minors. 47 U.S.C. 254(h)(7)(I); 24 P.S. 4606. Visual Depictions – This term includes undeveloped film and videotape and data stored on computer disk or by electronic means which is capable of conversion into a visual image that has been transmitted by any means, whether or not stored in a permanent format, but does not include mere words. 18 U.S.C. 1460 (b);18 Pa.C.S.A. 2256. 4. Delegation of Responsibility The Superintendent is granted the authority to create administrative procedures to accompany this policy. The administrative procedures must include, among other sections: Prohibitions (General Prohibitions, Access and Security Prohibitions, and Operational Prohibitions), Content Guidelines, Due Process, Search and Seizure, and Selection of Material. This policy must be incorporated into the administrative procedure. The Superintendent is also granted the authority to create an administrative procedure that specifically addresses teacher-student communication when social networking tools are used. It shall be the responsibility of each building administrator to ensure that this Policy is followed appropriately in his/her building and to determine what is an acceptable use of the internet under this Policy and any accompanying administrative procedures. It is the responsibility of the Supervisor of Information Systems to ensure that the network is properly maintained in accordance wit the guidelines set forth in this Policy. 5. Requirements 1. Acknowledgement and Consent A copy of this policy and EASD Acceptable Use Form will be provided for all users who must be presented with the school district’s EASD Acceptable Use Form to sign. Users must be capable and able to use the school district’s systems and software relevant to the employee’s responsibilities. 2. Internet/Network Use Restricted to Educational Purposes Use of the District’s network and the internet is limited exclusively to use for educational purposes. Personal and/or recreational use of the internet shall be permitted on the District’s network. 3. Non-Network Access Prohibited All access to the internet by students while on school grounds or at school- sponsored functions/trips must be through the District’s network. Access to the internet during school hours via 3G/4G capable devices or other non-District connections is prohibited. In circumstances, which may be related to a student’s disability, permission to utilize non-district connection must be requested and granted through the Supervisor of Information Technology. 4. Internet Access/Restrictions on District Network The District provides its users with access to the Internet, including web sites, resources, content, and online tools. That access will be restricted in compliance with CIPA regulations and school policies. Web browsing may be monitored and web activity records may be retained indefinitely. The District may maintain a usage log and may monitor the online activities of minors using the District’s network.
37 Users are expected to respect that the web filter is a safety precaution and should not try to circumvent it when browsing the Web. If a site is blocked and a user believes it should not be, the user should follow protocol to alert an IT staff member or submit a work order. If a site is accessible that contains content that is not permissible under this or another Board Policy, the user is required to immediately report it to the building principal. Because of the nature of the filter and blocking technology, as well as the technology that allows the internet to operate, the District cannot ensure that all access to explicit, inappropriate or unlawful materials will be completely blocked. However, intentionally accessing such resources is inappropriate and will result in disciplinary action and/or denial of privileges. 5. Student Training The District shall provide, at least once per school year, training to students regarding safety and the Internet. This training shall include information about this Policy as well as additional information regarding appropriate online behavior, including proper interactions with other individuals on social networking sites and in chat rooms. The training shall also include information regarding cyber bullying and appropriate responses to cyber bullying. 6. District Email Accounts The District provides users with email accounts for the purpose of school-related communication. Use of District email accounts for personal, non-school-related purposes is prohibited. The District reserves the right to revoke permission to use a District email account at any time for any reason. Users are expected to utilize email accounts in an appropriate manner and in a manner that is mindful of the personal and network security risks. Students may not send personal information to unknown individuals that they have met online. Users should not attempt to open files or follow links from unknown or untrusted origins. Users should use appropriate language. Students are prohibited from communicating via email in a manner that violates the Code of Conduct, District Policy or the rules/requirements of an individual teacher. Email usage will be monitored and archived. Users are reminded that they have no expectation of privacy with regards to emails created/received on the District’s system. For safety reasons, the District may, at its discretion, conduct searches of District email accounts. The District has the sole discretion to access, and maintain emails sent and/or received from a District account as it deems necessary/appropriate. 7. Student Use of Social Media Prohibited Students are prohibited from using social media, as defined in this Policy, on the District’s network, during school hours and/or during school-sponsored activities unless such use is for a school project formally approved by the District that meets the requirements set forth in Board Policy 815.3. 8. Security Definition shall be consistent with Board Policy 815.1 9. Unauthorized Access Unauthorized access would be considered hacking and logging into the network using another individual’s username and password. This act is strictly prohibited and will result in discipline and denial of privileges. Such unauthorized access may also result in a referral to law enforcement and potential criminal charges.
38 10. Personal Student Information Users are prohibited from publishing on the internet or otherwise disseminating the personally identifiable information of students. Students who publish to the internet personally identifiable information about other students on the school’s network, during the day, on school grounds or during school-sponsored activities may be subject to discipline and/or loss of privileges. District employees are required to comply with the Family Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). 11. Downloads Users are not permitted to download or attempt to download or run.exe programs over the school network or onto school resources without express permission from IT staff. Students are not permitted to download any file types, including images, photos, video or audio files, without permission from a teacher or administrator. For the security of the District’s network, users should download such files only from reputable sites and only for educational purposes. 12. Copyright Federal and State copyright laws govern and restrict the permissible use of all material accessed on the District’s network and the internet. 13. Personal Safety Users should never share personal information, including phone number, address, social security number, birthday, or financial information, over the Internet without adult permission. Users should recognize that communicating over the Internet allows potential perpetrators to interact anonymously with students, which bears associated risks. Users should carefully safeguard the personal information of themselves and others. Users should never agree to meet in real life, without parental permission, someone they initially met online. Any student who receives threatening or unwelcome communication should report such communication immediately to a teacher or administrator. Employees should report such communications to their immediate supervisors or, if the communication is from such supervisor, directly to the building principal or District-level administrator. Students who receive threatening or unwelcome communication while at home or off-campus are encouraged to immediately report it to their parents or other adult. Harassing, threatening or bullying communications made by District staff or students to other staff or students would be reported to District Administration regardless of whether such communication was received during school hours, on school grounds or at school functions. 14. District Monitoring of Internet and Network Usage and Activity The District reserves the right to monitor and log User activity on the District’s network, at its discretion. Users shall have no expectation of privacy for activity on the District’s network or while using a District-owned device. User network passwords prevent unauthorized individuals from accessing the District’s network without permission, however, such passwords are not required for authorized IT administrators and other District administrators to access an individual account. The Superintendent shall designate an individual or individuals who shall maintain this responsibility. 15. Cyber-bullying Definition shall be consistent with Board Policy 252
39 16. Prohibited Content Users may not access materials that are obscene, contain child pornography or are harmful to minors. The building administration shall have the responsibility of determining whether content falls within these categories. Users are encouraged to use common sense and good judgment when accessing materials online. Employees who wish to access online content for educational purposes but are not sure whether such content falls within the above definitions of “obscene,” “child pornography” or “harmful to minors” are required to consult with the building principal. The dissemination of explicit sexual materials to minors is unlawful and will be subject to discipline and possible criminal sanctions. This includes, but is not limited to, obscene materials, as set forth in 18 Pa. C.S.A. 6312. 17. Incidental Personal Use by Employees Employees may engage in incidental personal use as a privilege, as defined in “Definitions” section, above. Such use must be limited to occasional use only and must comply fully with the terms of this Policy and any accompanying administrative procedures. The District reserves the right to prohibit incidental personal use by all or specific employees for any reason, including where there is a history of misuse, where such use becomes a burden for the District’s technology or where enforcement of the incidental personal use requirements become too cumbersome. Where incidental use is prohibited by a specific employee or group of employees, the District must provide notification to such employee (s of the prohibition of such use. 18. Expectation of Privacy Students and staff are reminded that they have no expectation of privacy when using District-owned technology, its email system or network. 19. Storage of Personal/Private Data on District Network Users are not authorized to maintain personal and/or private data not related to the school or school business, including personal documents, emails, etc., on the District’s network. Personal data should not be maintained on District servers, and the District shall not be responsible for ensuring or safeguarding the security and/or confidentiality of such data. The District shall not be responsible for the loss of any personal or private data stored on the District’s network. 20. Limitation of Liability The District makes no warranties of any kind, either expressed or implied, that the functions or the services provided by or through the District’s computer network systems will be error-free or without defect. The District will not be responsible for damage or harm to persons, files, data, or hardware due to use of the District’s network. While the District employs filtering and other safety and security mechanisms, and attempts to ensure their proper function, it makes not guarantees as to their effectiveness. The District will not be responsible, financially or otherwise, for unauthorized transactions conducted over the school network. The District will not be responsible for the loss of any data or information stored on the District’s network or on a District server, including emails and/or documents.
40 21. Policy Violations The District reserves the right to hold students/employees responsible for damage that occurs. 22. Data Breach In the event of a data breach of the District’s systems, the District shall comply with all applicable state and federal laws, including those requiring notice to those whose data may have been breached. The Superintendent or designee shall be responsible for ensuring compliance with the necessary laws.
815.1 USE OF DISTRICT-OWNED TECHNOLOGY
1. Purpose The purpose of this Policy is to facilitate the effective use of District-owned technology, extend the useable lifespan of such technology to the greatest extent possible, protect the District’s financial investment in technology, and to set forth the rules related to requirements and safeguards the use of District-owned technology.
2. Authority The Superintendent or designee shall ensure compliance with this Policy. Each building principal shall be responsible for enforcing the requirements set forth in this Policy within his or her building.
3. Definitions “District-Owned Devices” / “District-Owned Technology” includes, but is not limited to, desktop computers, mobile computers or devices (including, but not limited to, laptops, netbooks, tablet PCs, etc.), videoconferencing capabilities, smartboards, printers, scanners, software, cables, modems, data storage devices (including, but not limited to, zip drives, DVDs and CDs, thumb and flash drives, external hard drives and CD-Roms, etc.) specialized electronic equipment used for students’ special educational purposes, global position system (GPS) equipment, District-owned personal digital assistants (PDAs), District-owned cell phones (with or without Internet access and/or recording and/or camera/video and other capabilities), other District-owned wireless devices, two-way radios/telephones, beepers, paging devices, laser pointers and attachments, and more. This policy covers any and all EASD hardware, software, or other technology owned by the District.
The terms set forth in this Policy shall be defined consistent with the definitions set forth in Bd. Pol. 815 – Use of the Internet and the District’s Network
Users of District technology covered under this Policy include all students, faculty and guests who utilize District-owned technology.
4. Delegation and Responsibility This Section outlines the requirements and behaviors that users are expected to follow when using school technologies. • Students and employees shall be financially responsible for damage, vandalism, loss or theft of District technology caused by negligent conduct, including failure to properly care for or safeguard technology devices.
41 • Users of District-owned devices have no expectation of privacy for the contents of the device. • The District may reclaim immediately, without cause, any District- owned device at any time. • Misuse of District technology can result in disciplinary action. • The District makes a reasonable effort to ensure students’ safety and security online, but will not be held accountable for any harm or damages that result from use of school technologies. • Users of the school network or other technologies are expected to alert IT staff immediately of any concerns for safety or security.
The District shall not tolerate illegal activity, cyber-bullying or other improper activity on District-owned technology.
5. Guidelines Non-District-Related Uses Prohibited All technologies provided by the school are intended for educational purposes and may not be used for purposes unrelated to the District business or non- educational purposes. Employee use of District technology must be strictly limited to those tasks that are within the scope of their responsibilities as school employees, and in accordance with Incidental Personal Use as defined in board policy 815. Student use of District-owned technology must be strictly limited to instructional purposes as assigned within the scope of their coursework.
Privacy Users of District-owned devices have no expectation of privacy on such devices, including with internet access and access histories, and the District may confiscate and/or search the District-owned device at any time.
District-Owned Mobile Devices The District may provide users with mobile computers or other devices to promote learning both inside and outside of the classroom. Users are required to abide by the standards set forth in Bd. Pol. 815.
District-owned mobile devices are issued for professional and educational use and may not be used for personal purposes. If a user is not sure whether a particular use is appropriate under this Policy, he/she must seek an opinion from his/her building principal or direct supervisor.
Users are expected to treat these devices with extreme care and caution; these are expensive devices that the school is entrusting to your care. Users should report any loss, damage, or malfunction to IT staff immediately. Users will be financially accountable for any damage resulting from loss, theft, negligence, mishandling or misuse and in accordance with any associated technology fee agreements.
Users shall have no expectation of privacy on District-owned devices.
Use of school-issued mobile devices off the school network may be monitored or tracked by location. All voice, data and call logs will be fully accessible by the District as well as any other available data regarding the use of the device that may have been electronically collected by the device or the District’s network.
Downloads and/or Upgrades Users may not download new applications or upgrade a District-owned device without prior permission from a member of the District’s IT staff.
42
Security Users are expected to take reasonable safeguards against the transmission of security threats on District-owned devices. This includes not opening or distributing infected files or programs and not opening files or programs of unknown or untrusted origin.
If a user believes that a computer or mobile device might be infected with a virus, immediately alert IT. Users should not attempt to remove the virus themselves or download any programs to help remove the virus without instruction from a member of the District’s IT staff.
System security is protected through the use of passwords/passcodes. Failure to adequately protect or update passwords could result in unauthorized access to personal or school files. To protect the integrity of the system, the following guidelines must be followed: 1. Users may not reveal their passwords/passcodes to another individual.
2. Users are not to use a computer that has been logged in under another user’s name. If a previous user has not logged off, the current user must immediately log out and then log back in under his/her own name and password.
3. Users must create passwords that follow the district requirements for minimum characters and required letter/number combinations.
4. Users must protect the device with a password or passcode in accordance with district requirements.
5. If a user suspects or knows that his/her password or passcode has been compromised, he/she is required to report it immediately to the building principal and IT staff.
Confiscation of or Revocation of Permission to Use District Technology The District may revoke a user’s permission to use District technology at any time for any reason. Likewise, the District may confiscate a District-owned device at any time for reason. Use of District-owned devices and District technology privileges shall be immediately revoked where the User has violated this Policy, or any other Board Policy or the Student Code of Conduct when using the District-owned device.
Access of Illegal or Inappropriate Materials Prohibited on District-Owned Devices Users are prohibited from accessing or downloading any content and/or materials that are prohibited by law and/or by Bd. Pol. 815.
Lost or Stolen Devices
Employees and students are required to immediately report any District technology that is lost or stolen and must fully cooperate with any associated investigation.
43 Limitation of Liability
The District will not be responsible for damage or harm to persons, files, data, or hardware.
While the District employs filtering and other safety and security mechanisms, and attempts to ensure their proper function, it makes no guarantees as to their effectiveness.
The District will not be responsible, financially or otherwise, for unauthorized transactions conducted on District-owned technology.
Notice of Video/Audio Surveillance on School Buses The use of a video and/or audio recording is intended to assist the administration, contractors, and/or drivers in observing behavior, preventing violation of bus rules, school rules, regulations, district policies, and Pennsylvania or federal laws, and utilizing and/or dispensing such surveillance when required for disciplinary, civil, and/or criminal matters.
As provided for in District Policy No. 816, video and/or audio recorders may be placed on any and all buses operated by or on behalf of the District. All students may be subject to being videotaped and/or audiotaped on the school bus at any time, including, but not limited to when buses are used for transport to and from school, for school fieldtrips, or any school related activities such as athletic events and extra-curricular activity trips.
The video/audio media are intended for use with respect to issues relating to safety and behavior on the bus and at school. Video/audio media are not intended for general viewing by a student, employee, parent/guardian, or public and shall not be made available for general viewing purposes, unless required by law or court order.
EAHS Student Council Constitution Preamble We, the members of the Easton Area High School (EAHS) Student Council, in realizing the necessity for a forum of students to create and develop better school citizenship among the students, to promote better school morale, to act as a liaison between the students and the administration, do accept and establish this constitution as the governing factor of our standards and ideals.
Parliamentary Authority The rules contained in “Robert's Rules of Order” shall govern the EAHS Student Council in all cases to which they are applicable and in which they are consistent with any special rules of order the EAHS Student Council may adopt.
ARTICLE I Name and Purpose Section 1. The name of this organization shall be "EAHS Student Council." Section 2. The purpose of the EAHS Student Council shall be to act as a forum for the student body to be represented to the administration and to better the morale of students.
44 ARTICLE II Membership The EAHS Student Council shall consist of three forms of representation: Executive Officers, Class Officers and Senators at all times. In the event any student(s) or advisor(s) is a member of Pennsylvania Association of Student Council (PASC) or National Association of Student Council (NASC) executive board, they are members of EAHS Student Council during their term of office on PASC and/or NASC.
{Members are allotted two unexcused absences. Excused absences include but are not limited to: Test or review during the time of the meeting, music lesson, field trip, vacation, etc. Other reasons are up for discussion with a member of the executive board. If the member is going to miss, they must inform a member of the executive board or Student Council Advisor prior to the meeting. If two unexcused absences are acquired, the member is subject to trial for impeachment. Members are also required to participate in 10 hours of community service. 5 hours are needed per semester. If the requirements are not met after the first semester, the member is subject to trial for impeachment.}
Section 1. Executive Officers
A. Qualifications
1. Eligible students for executive office must be full time students at Easton Area High School. 2. Eligible candidates must have an 80% cumulative average with no completed marking period less than a 80% GPA. This is subject to the discretion of the administration. 3. Eligible candidates must have no disciplinary referrals. This is subject to the discretion of the administration. 4. Eligible candidates must not have any suspensions or unexcused absences. This is subject to the discretion of the administration. 5. The president, vice-president, secretary, treasurer and parliamentarian of the executive office shall be members of the senior class. 6. The president of the executive office should have been a member of EAHS Student Council for two (2) years through grades 9, 10 and 11. One year as a member of EAHS Student Council must have been their junior year.
*Any member of EAHS Student Council executive board who fails to maintain these qualifications when elected will face an impeachment trial.
B. Membership
1. There shall be five (5) executive officers representative of grade 12. The positions of executive office are as follows: president, vice-president, secretary, treasurer and parliamentarian. 2. The executive office of parliamentarian is a student from the senior class appointed by the head principal. The EAHS Student Council Parliamentarian is responsible for ensuring that “Robert's Rules of Order” are followed at all meetings. The EAHS Student Council Parliamentarian makes sure that all motions are properly made and acted upon, and assists in getting all members involved in orderly discussions.
45 C. Election
1. Executive officers: president, vice-president, secretary, and treasurer shall be elected by their respective grade level. Voting will be by secret ballot. 2. During the month of April the executive board will hold an election. Any senior wishing to be put on that ballot shall submit their name to the main office during executive officer candidate sign ups. Everyone who meets Section 1A is eligible. The candidate with the highest vote count shall be the winner. They shall be notified within the next week of school. 3. The senior class principal will approve candidate requests and forward the approved candidate names to the advisor(s). Campaigns shall be done between the last day of sign ups and the election. The election of the executive board officers shall be held by the last week in April. 4. Procedure for Counting Ballots
a. In an election, ballots will be counted by the class opposite of two years in order to secure fairest results. Seniors and sophomores will count each others’ ballots, and freshmen and juniors will count each others’ ballots. b. A list of homerooms and teachers must be obtained from the main office secretaries and all envelopes from the respective homerooms must be accounted for. If a homeroom’s ballots are missing, that teacher must be contacted and the envelope must be returned before counting ballots. c. If possible, there must be an adult supervisor in the room where counting is being done at all times. d. Ballots are to be counted by homeroom, and then placed back in the respective homeroom envelope with an overall tally sheet of the homeroom’s votes attached to the envelope. e. The student counting ballots must sign his or her name at the bottom of each tally sheet. When all votes have been counted, an adult must be the one who confidentially counts up the final results of all individual tally sheets. 5. Campaign material content must be approved and signed by the advisor(s) before being displayed on school property.
Section 2. Class Officers Grades 9-12
A. Qualifications 1. Eligible class officers must be full-time students at Easton Area High School. 2. Eligible candidates must have an 80% cumulative average with no completed marking period less than an 80% GPA. This is subject to the discretion of the administration. 3. Eligible candidates must have no disciplinary referrals. This is subject to the discretion of the administration.
46 4. Eligible candidates must not have any suspensions, as well as unexcused absences. This is subject to the discretion of the administration. B. Membership 1. At all times there shall be sixteen (16) class officers. 2. Each class will be represented by a president, vice- president, secretary and treasurer. C. Election 1. Class officers: president, vice-president, secretary, treasurer shall be elected by their respective grade level. Election will be by the secret ballot system. 2. During the month of May grades 10,11 and 12 will hold an election. Grade 9 class elections will occur in September of the next school year. Anyone wishing to be put on that ballot shall submit their name to their grade level office during class officer candidate sign up. Everyone who meets Section 1A is eligible. Voting shall be by secret ballot. 3. The respective class principal will approve candidate requests and forward the approved candidate names to the advisor(s). Campaigns shall be done the last day of sign ups and the election. The election of the class officers shall be held by the last week in May. 4. Procedure for Counting Ballot a. In an election, ballots will be counted by the class opposite of two years in order to secure fairest results. Seniors and sophomores will count each other’s ballots, and freshmen and juniors will count each other’s ballots. b. A list of homerooms and teachers must be obtained from the main office secretaries and all envelopes from the respective homerooms must be accounted for. If a homeroom’s ballots are missing, that teacher must be contacted and the envelope must be returned before counting ballots. c. If possible, there must be an adult supervisor in the room where counting is being done at all times. d. Ballots are to be counted by homeroom, and then placed back in the respective homeroom envelope with an overall tally sheet of the homeroom’s votes attached to the envelope. e. The student counting ballots must sign his or her name at the bottom of each tally sheet. When all votes have been counted, an adult must be the one who confidentially counts up the final results of all individual tally sheets. 5. Campaign material content must be approved and signed by the advisor(s) before being displayed on school property.
Section 3. Senators Grades 9-12
A. Qualifications 1. Eligible senators must be full time students at Easton Area High School. 2. Eligible candidates must have a 80% cumulative average with no completed marking period less than a 80% GPA. This is subject to the discretion of the administration.
47 3. Eligible candidates must have no disciplinary referrals. Subject to discretion of administration. 4. Eligible candidates must not have any in or out of school suspensions, as well as unexcused absences. Subject to discretion of administration. B. Membership 1. At all times there shall be sixteen (16) senators. four (4) senators representing each grade level. 2. Honorary senators: Each class will be represented by at least one (1) but not more than four (4) for each grade level as recommended by the current grade level principal.
C. Election 1. Senators shall be elected by their respective grade level. Within two weeks following class officer elections each class shall hold a senator election. Elections will be by the secret ballot system. During the month of May grades 10,11 and 12 will hold a senator election. Grade 9 class senator elections will occur in September of the next school year. Anyone wishing to be put on that ballot shall submit their name to their grade level office during class officer candidate sign up. Everyone who meets Section 1A is eligible. Voting shall be by secret ballot. 2. The respective class principal will approve candidate requests and forward the approved candidate names to the advisor(s). Campaigns shall be done between the deadline date for request to run for office and elections. The election of the class officers shall be held by the last week in May. 3. Procedure for Counting Ballots a. In an election, ballots will be counted by the class opposite of two years in order to secure fairest results. Seniors and sophomores will count each other’s ballots, and freshmen and juniors will count each other’s ballots. b. A list of homerooms and teachers must be obtained from the main office secretaries and all envelopes from the respective homerooms must be accounted for. If a homeroom’s ballots are missing, that teacher must be contacted and the envelope must be returned before counting ballots. c. If possible, there must be an adult supervisor in the room where counting is being done at all times. d. Ballots are to be counted by homeroom, and then placed back in the respective homeroom envelope with an overall tally sheet of the homeroom’s votes attached to the envelope. e. The student counting ballots must sign his or her name at the bottom of each tally sheet. When all votes have been counted, an adult must be the one who confidentially counts up the final results of all individual tally sheets. 4. Campaign material content must be approved and signed by the advisor(s) before being displayed on school property. 5. The principal of each grade level will nominate at least One (1) but not more than four (4) honorary senator(s) that is in
48 good standing with respect to academics, attendance and discipline.
Section 4. Honorary Members
A. The principal and all administrators shall be considered honorary members. B. A minimum of six (6) faculty members may volunteer to serve as honorary members C. All foreign exchange students shall be considered honorary members.
49 STUDENT ACTIVITIES AND CLUBS
Involvement in school activities plays an important part in a student’s personal, social, and academic growth and often sets the stage for a future career or a vocation. Students who wish to start a club may do so through permission of the principal provided an advisor has been obtained. Students must also obtain student council approval. The clubs and activities named below will be continued, expanded or deleted according to student interest. In the absence of specific activity/club rules pertaining to requirements for eligibility for activity/club officers, school/class officer eligibility requirements will be followed.
ACTIVITY/CLUB/CO-CURRICULAR ADVISOR Alumni Club Mr. Ruggeri Animal Welfare Mrs. Charnley Anime Club Ms. Sumpter Asian-American Club Mrs. Rose Audio Visual Technology Mr. Capone Aevidum Club Ms. Symia Band Mrs. Lutte Bass Choir Mr. Shilanskas Camerata (Choir) Mr. Deshler Chamber Singers Mr. Deshler Chamber Strings Mrs. Lutte Chess Club Mr. Tanczos Class Advisor – 9th Grade Mrs. Schummer Class Advisor – 10th Grade Mr. Rusnock Class Advisor – 11th Grade Mrs. Zimmerman Class Advisor – 12th Grade Mrs. Clark Computer Science Club Mrs. Carmichael Concert Choir Mr. Deshler Mr. Shilanskas Costume Crew Mrs. Daraghy DECA Mr. Ruggeri Mr. Felton Debate Club Mr. Capone Drama Club/SNL Mrs. Rose Drill Team TBD EAHS Computer Science Club Mrs. Carmichael Mr. Tanczos EAHS Musical Theater Mr. Capone Earth and Space Science/GLOBE Club TBD Easton Angels Club Mrs. Vacaro Fairest and Squarest Mr. Shilanskas Family Career & Commun. Leaders of Amer. (FCCLA) Ms. Daraghy Fellowship of Christian Athletes Mr. Baltz French Club Dr. Wascura French Honor Society Dr. Wascura Freshmen Choir Mr. Shilanskas Future Bus. Leaders of American (FBLA) Mrs. Klein Mrs. Letourneau Gay-Straight Alliance Mrs. Seltzer German Club Mrs. Doerr German Honor Society Mrs. Doerr Girls Up Club Mrs. Morgans
50 Hair and Make-Up Crew Mrs. Manning Insanely Active Club Mrs. K. Koch Italian Cultural Club Mrs. Petitti Ms. Merli Italian National Honor Society Mrs. Petitti Ms. Merli Japanese Club Mrs. Sumpter Jazz Band Mrs. Lutte Jazz Chorale Mr. Shilanskas Junto (School Newspaper) Ms. Capecci Keep Africa Well Club Mr. Welsh Key Club Mrs. Peters Latin Club Dr. Clauser Literary Magazine (Youthink) Ms. Hudak Mock Trial Mr. Corpora Model United Nations TBD Musical Theatre Mr. Capone NAACP Youth Council Mrs. Durrah National Art Honor Society Ms. Marquardt National Honor Society Mr. Corpora Orchestra Mrs. Lutte Penna. Junior Academy of Science/Science Fair Mr. Brown Pep Band Ms. Lutte Photography Club Ms. Clements Project 511 (Bible Study) Mrs. Chen Quoit Club Mr. Ruggeri Reading Olympics Mrs. Soffera Rechauffe (Yearbook) Mr. Uhler Recycling Club Mr. Welsh Rover Alliance Mr. Jones SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) Ms. Heineman Scholastic Scrimmage Mrs. N. Smith Smash Club Mrs. J. Koch Spanish Club Mr. Jacoby Spanish Honor Society Ms. Culpepper Spring Challenge Mrs. Soffera Step Team Mrs. Ding Student Council Mrs. Zayaitz Ruhf Table Tennis Mr. Manning Tech Crew / Stage Crew Mr. Capone Technology Student Association (TSA) Mr. Chillot Mr. Gaumer Mr. Powell Treble Choir Mr. Shilanskas Twirling TBD Women’s Welfare Club Mrs. Schummer Yellow Ribbon Club Mrs. Barone
51 SOLICITATIONS AND COLLECTIONS No fundraising or solicitations are to be held in school unless approved as a school club or activity fundraiser. Students may not sell items for personal profit.
SCHOOL CLOSINGS In the event of an early dismissal, a delayed start or a school closing due to inclement weather, a phone or text message will be sent from Easton Area School District using the SchoolMessenger notification service. Information in reference to school day alterations is immediately posted on our website and available through the following local media:
RADIO TELEVISION KYW (1060 AM) WFMZ (Channel 69) WAEB (790 AM) WNEP (Channel 16) WAEB (104 FM) WPVI (Channel 6) WCAU (Channel 10)
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IMPORTANT DATES
First Day of School for Students August 27, 2018 Labor Day – No School August 31, 2018 Labor Day – No School September 3, 2018 Columbus Day – No School October 8, 2018 END OF FIRST MARKING PERIOD October 31, 2018 *Teacher In-Service November 9, 2018 No School for Students Early Release Day November 21, 2018 Students and Teachers Thanksgiving Holiday Nov. 22 through Nov 26, 2018 Early Release Day Students and Teachers December 21, 2018 Winter Break Dec. 21 through Jan 15, 2019 Martin Luther King Day - No School January 21, 2019 END OF SECOND MARKING PERIOD January 17, 2019 President’s Day – No School February 18, 2019 END OF THIRD MARKING PERIOD March 26, 2019 *Teacher In-Service February 15, 2019 No School for Students Spring Break April 18 through April 22, 2019 Early Dismissal Day for High School Only May 3, 2019 Memorial Day May 27, 2019 END OF FOURTH MARKING PERIOD May 31, 2019 Last Day for Students June 3, 2019 Teacher In-Service June 4, 2019 No School for Students
*Teacher In-Service days 2/15/2019 may be utilized as Make-up days and if necessary, additional days will be added to the end of the calendar in June.
53 2018-19 CODE OF CONDUCT
“EDUCATING FOR LIFE’S JOURNEY”
EASTON AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
Table of Contents
Mission, Belief Statements & Board of School Directors...……………….3 EASD Contact Information………………………………………………… 4 Superintendent and Board President Letter……………………………… 5 Level I Infractions/Consequences………………………………………….. 6 Level II Infractions/Consequences…………………………………………. 7 Level III Infractions/Consequences………………………………………… 8 Level IV Infractions/Consequences………….……………………………...9 PARENT/GUARDIAN PLEDGE FORM……………….………...... 10
EASD Policies
All students are responsible to adhere to Easton Area School District policies. This helps to establish a safe and respectful learning environment. Failure to adhere to the policies will result in the implementation of consequences, as outlined in the Code of Conduct.
All of the school policies can be found at the Easton Area School District’s website www.eastonsd.org and/or hard copies can be requested at each of our school buildings.
EASD Safety Hotline
Anyone desiring to anonymously report a safety concern or hazard which may jeopardize the safety of others, the Easton Area School District, its students or employees, should direct his or her correspondence to the respective building Principal or the Office of the Superintendent if applicable. Please refer to page four (4) of this document for the respective contact information or call the district’s anonymous safety hotline number at (610) 250-2400, extension #35411 to leave a message.
SEE WEBSITE FOR COMPLETE POLICIES: www.eastonsd.org
2
Mission, Belief Statements & Board of School Directors
MISSION STATEMENT
The Easton Area School District respects the diversity of its student population and is dedicated to the importance of developing our students into responsible citizens. We will provide each student with an academically challenging program that enhances creativity, develops an ability to use technology, and encourages critical thinking and problem solving. In support of this mission, we will ensure a safe instructional environment and promote life-long learning.
BELIEF STATEMENTS
Recognizing that the education system should be a reflection of the community it represents, we believe that:
1) Children need a challenging curriculum that is sensitive to their individual needs. 2) All children should be exposed to a variety of learning experiences. 3) Children learn best in a safe environment. 4) Character development of children is part of the entire learning experience. 5) The focus of education is for individuals to be life-long learners.
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
Mr. George Chando, President Mrs. Jodi Hess, Vice President Mr. Robert Fehnel Mr. Thomas Guth Ms. Susan Hartranft-Bittinger Mrs. Tina Rosado Ms. Meg Sayago Mr. Brian Snyder Mrs. Billie Weiss
Mr. John F. Reinhart, Superintendent Mrs. Alyssa Emili, Assistant Superintendent Mrs. Allie Ramirez, Secretary Mr. Michael Simonetta, Treasurer/Chief Operating Officer Atty. John Freund, Solicitor
3
Key Contact Information
EASD ADMINISTRATION & SCHOOLS
Education Center F. A. March Elementary School 1801 Bushkill Drive 429 Reeder Street Easton, PA 18040 Easton, PA 18042 610-250-2400 610-250-2531
Easton Area High School Forks Elementary School 2601 William Penn Highway 1709 Richmond Road Easton, PA 18045 Easton, PA 18040 610-250-2481 Temporarily relocated to: 990 Echo Trail Easton, PA 18040 Easton Area Middle School Campus 610-250-2536 1010 Echo Trail Easton, PA 18040 610-250-2460
Palmer Elementary School Easton Area Academy 3050 Green Pond Road 2035 Edgewood Avenue Easton, PA 18045 Easton, PA 18045 610-250-2521 610-829-5700
Ada B. Cheston Elementary School Paxinosa Elementary School 723 Coal Street 1221 Northampton Street Easton, PA 18042 Easton, PA 18042 610-250-2542 610-250-2551
Edward Tracy Elementary School Shawnee Elementary School 1243 Tatamy Road 1315 Echo Trail Easton, PA 18045 Easton, PA 18040 610-250-2556 610-829-5712
4
August 2018
Welcome to the new school year.
We are pleased to share our Easton Area School District Code of Conduct with you. The Code of Conduct is reviewed on an annual basis by the administrative team. These individuals will continue to monitor the effectiveness of the implementation of the Code of Conduct through varied stakeholders: parents, students, teachers and administrators.
There are some very important inclusions to the Code of Conduct:
1. Board policies are referenced throughout this document. The full policies can be found online at www.eastonsd.org or you may request copies from your building principal.
2. Responsibilities of students, parents/guardians, faculty/staff and administrators are clearly stated.
3. Charts make it clearer to see what consequences are imposed when the Code of Conduct is not followed. These charts cover the four levels of infractions.
A safe and productive learning environment is important for the success of our students. It is important we work together to ensure that safety. We need cooperation from all students, parents, guardians, administrators, teachers, support staff and the community at large to enforce the Code of Conduct. We also appreciate our many community partners who contribute to the safety of our schools in the community.
Mr. John Reinhart Mr. George Chando Superintendent of Schools EASD School Board President
5 Level I: Infractions/Consequences
Infractions and consequences should be addressed and documented by the classroom teacher. Consequences assigned depending on age, disciplinary history and infraction.
PARENT/GUARDIANS
• Speak directly with the administrator/teacher disciplining your child. • If unsatisfied, speak with the principal. • If still unsatisfied after speaking with the principal, then depending on the grade level of your child, speak with the respective Director of Teaching and Learning.
INFRACTION *Tardiness to class – late arrival to any *Failure to meet classroom responsibilities assigned place *Class cut *Excessive talking *Chewing gum *Disruptive behavior
*Drinking or eating outside designated *Non –permanent, minor vandalism times or areas *Any other act deemed *Not following directions inappropriate by the Administration
*Any other act deemed *Public displays of affection inappropriate by the Administration
CONSEQUENCES *Warning; Non-verbal signal; *Withdrawal of privileges Verbal reprimand/redirections
*Head down on desk *Writing student’s name on chalkboard
*In-class time out *Behavior modification contract
*Parent contact *Lunch Detention/After-school detention
*Writing assignment *Conferencing with student
*Administration will determine level of *Time out consequences
In accordance with Section 13-1317 of the Pennsylvania Public School Code, every teacher, vice principal and principal in the public schools shall have the right to exercise the same authority as to conduct and behavior over the pupils attending his school, during the time they are in attendance, including the time required in going to and from their homes, as the parents, guardians or persons in parental relation to such pupils may exercise over them. This Code of Conduct represents the minimum, and not the maximum authority retained by school district officials to maintain school discipline and decorum at all times.
SEE WEBSITE FOR COMPLETE POLICIES: www.eastonsd.org
6 Level II: Infractions/Consequences
Staff reporting such infractions must complete a referral form and submit to the Building Administrator. Consequences assigned depending on age, disciplinary history and infraction. Consequences will be documented.
PARENT/GUARDIANS
• Speak directly with the administrator disciplining your child. • If unsatisfied, speak with the principal. • If still unsatisfied after speaking with the principal, then depending on the grade level of your child, speak with the respective Director of Teaching and Learning.
INFRACTION *Repeated occurrences of Level I *Misbehavior in hallways infractions *Multiple Class cuts *Misbehavior in cafeteria *Chronic/ongoing tardiness *Dress Code violations *Attendance Policy violations *Threatening another person or property times or areas *Chronic disruptive behavior *Certain violations of District’s Use of the Internet & District’s Network policy *Inappropriate contact, language and/or *Bullying gestures *Leaving classroom without permission * Bus misconduct *Possession or sale of contraband that is *Defiance or Disrespect not a safety threat *Hindering investigation *Gang Policy violations *Any other act deemed inappropriate by *Cheating the Administration
CONSEQUENCES *In addition to and Level I *In-school time out consequences *Meaningful writing assignments *Behavior modification contract *In-school suspension *Change daily schedule or assignments *Put-of0school suspension *Assignment to secluded or restricted area during lunch, etc. *Parent contact/conference *After-school/Saturday detention *Confiscation of banned material *Conferencing (electronic device, hat, etc.) *Withdrawal of school privileges *Administration will determine level of consequences
In accordance with Section 13-1317 of the Pennsylvania Public School Code, every teacher, vice principal and principal in the public schools shall have the right to exercise the same authority as to conduct and behavior over the pupils attending his school, during the time they are in attendance, including the time required in going to and from their homes, as the parents, guardians or persons in parental relation to such pupils may exercise over them. This Code of Conduct represents the minimum, and not the maximum authority retained by school district officials to maintain school discipline and decorum at all times.
SEE WEBSITE FOR COMPLETE POLICIES: www.eastonsd.org
7 Level III: Infractions/Consequences
Staff reporting such infractions must complete a referral form and submit to the Building Administrator. Consequences assigned depending on age, disciplinary history and infraction. Consequences will be documented.
PARENT/GUARDIANS
• Speak directly with the administrator disciplining your child. • If unsatisfied, speak with the principal. • If still unsatisfied after speaking with the principal, then depending on the grade level of your child, speak with the respective Director of Teaching and Learning.
INFRACTION *Repeated occurrences of Level II infractions *Harassment/sexual harassment
*Leaving school property without permission *Forgery
*Permanent minor/vandalism graffiti *Refusal or failure to identify self *Possession of tobacco products *Threatening another person(s) or property *Theft *Bullying/Cyber Bullying *Persistent Defiance or Disrespect *Certain violation of District’s Use of the Internet & the District’s Network policy *Fighting *Possession or sale of contraband *Any other act deemed inappropriate by the Administration
CONSEQUENCES *In addition to any Level II consequences *Possible referral to the school board for expulsion *All violations of the PA Crimes Code will be *Administration will determine level of reported to the police and may be reported to consequences the Office of Children & Youth
In accordance with Section 13-1317 of the Pennsylvania Public School Code, every teacher, vice principal and principal in the public schools shall have the right to exercise the same authority as to conduct and behavior over the pupils attending his school, during the time they are in attendance, including the time required in going to and from their homes, as the parents, guardians or persons in parental relation to such pupils may exercise over them. This Code of Conduct represents the minimum, and not the maximum authority retained by school district officials to maintain school discipline and decorum at all times.
SEE WEBSITE FOR COMPLETE POLICIES: www.eastonsd.org
8 Level IV: Infractions/Consequences
Staff reporting such infractions must complete a referral form and submit to the Building Administrator. Consequences assigned depending on age, disciplinary history and infraction. Consequences will be documented.
PARENT/GUARDIANS
• Speak directly with the administrator disciplining your child. • If unsatisfied, speak with the principal. • If still unsatisfied after speaking with the principal, then depending on the grade level of your child, speak with the respective Director of Teaching and Learning.
INFRACTION *Student assault *Threatening another person(s) or property *Fighting *Defiant trespass *Staff assault *Sexual assault/indecent exposure *Substance Use Policy violation *False report *Weapons Policy violation *Theft/robbery *Vandalism, institutional vandalism or *Extortion graffiti *Arson *Intimidation *Bomb threat *Certain violations of District’s Network policy *Terroristic threat *Bullying/Cyber Bullying *Reckless endangerment *Possession or sale of contraband *Any other act deemed inappropriate by the Administration
CONSEQUENCES *In addition to any Level III consequences *All violations of the PA Crimes Code will be reported to the *Possible referral to the school board for Office of Children & Youth expulsion *Offending students may be immediately removed from his/her school assignment *Possible referral to an alternative educational placement *Administration will determine level of consequences
In accordance with Section 13-1317 of the Pennsylvania Public School Code, every teacher, vice principal and principal in the public schools shall have the right to exercise the same authority as to conduct and behavior over the pupils attending his school, during the time they are in attendance, including the time required in going to and from their homes, as the parents, guardians or persons in parental relation to such pupils may exercise over them. This Code of Conduct represents the minimum, and not the maximum authority retained by school district officials to maintain school discipline and decorum at all times.
SEE WEBSITE FOR COMPLETE POLICIES: www.eastonsd.org
9 Parent/Guardian Pledge Form
Easton Area School District Education Center 1801 Bushkill Drive Easton, PA 18040 Phone: 610-250-2400, Fax: 610-250-9730
School
Homeroom/Teacher
I have received a copy of the Easton Area School District Official Code of Conduct and reviewed it with my son/daughter.
I am aware that all EASD policies in their entirety can be found on the District website or by request from the main office of my child’s school.
I will maintain up-to-date home, work, and emergency numbers/contacts at the school.
Name of Student Age
Signature of Parent/Guardian
Home Address
_____/_____/_____ Date
Failure to return this pledge form does not absolve any individual from compliance with the rules and regulations contained herein. Furthermore, it is also understood that these rules and regulations represent the minimum, and not the maximum authority retained by school district officials to maintain school discipline and school safety at all times.
Please note that Board of Director policies are subject to change. The most current versions may be found on the district website at www.eastonsd.org.
Please sign and return this form to school.
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