WILLISTON NORTHAMPTON SCHOOL STUDENT AND PARENT HANDBOOK

ACADEMIC YEAR 2018-2019 CONTACTS

Head of School College Counseling Class of 2021: Erin Davey Robert W. Hill III Catherine McGraw, Director 413-529-3340 413-529-3222 413-529-3221 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Class of 2022 Assistant Head of School Communications Matthew Sawyer Ann Pickrell Ann Hallock, Director 413-529-3775 413-529-3242 413-529-3141 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] International Student Programs Academic Ofce Dean of Faculty Meg Valine, Director Greg Tuleja, Academic Dean Peter Valine, Dean 413-529-3277 413-529-3227 413-529-3379 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Health and Wellness Services Kimberly Evelti, Director of Dean of Students Amber Mish, Director Curriculum Kathryn M. Noble, Dean 413-529-3234 413-529-3071 413-529-3266 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Sara Schiefelin, Director of Laura Vachet, Director of Academic David Koritkoski, Associate Dean Psychological Counseling Services Support Director of Advising and Housing 413-529-3159 413-529-3964 413-529-3245 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] The Robert Parker Clapp Library Erin Davey, Assistant Dean Admission and Financial Aid Mattie Byrd McHold, Director Director of Inclusion Chris Dietrich, Dean of Enrollment 413-529-3225 413-529-3340 Management [email protected] [email protected] 413-529-3205 [email protected] Kate Garrity, Assistant Dean Middle School Coordinator of the Student Life Jen Fulcher, Director Athletics Curriculum 413-529-3229 Mark Conroy, Director 413-529-3927 [email protected] 413-529-3253 [email protected] Andrew Syfu, Middle School Dean [email protected] Rachel Gordon, Assistant Dean 413-529-3250 Director of Student Activities [email protected] Advancement 413-529-3739 Eric Yates, Chief Advancement [email protected] CORE Ninth Grade Program Ofcer Allison Marsland, Coordinator 413-529-3306 Jenna Motyka, Coordinator of 413-529-3282 [email protected] Student Services [email protected] 413-529-3266 Business Ofce [email protected] Matt Sawyer, Coordinator Charles McCullagh Jr., Chief 413-529-3775 Financial Ofcer Class Deans [email protected] 413-529-3261 Class of 2019: Christa Talbot Syfu ’98 [email protected] 413-529-3401 Technology [email protected] Andrew Shelfo, Chief Information Deborah Lennon, Director of Ofcer Business Services Class of 2020:Kate Garrity 413-529-3237 413-529-3236 413-529-3927 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] WELCOME TO THE SCHOOL

Welcome to a new school year at the Williston Northampton School! The Student and Parent Handbook is a guide to our community’s core values and the corresponding expectations that we place not only on our students, but also on all of our community members.

As its name suggests, the Student and Parent Handbook is a resource for all parents, students, and adult members of our community. It outlines our school rules and discipline procedures; it also conveys the values and beliefs that are the cornerstones of all of our interactions as members of the Williston community.

You will find that the values of respect, responsibility, trust, integrity, and honesty are embodied in the expectations of conduct that we have at Williston.

Through each student’s personal initiatives and challenges, we become a thriving community of learners and friends who grow from sharing each other’s talents and strengths. For students, we encourage you to take advantage of the many opportunities for personal growth and learning that will be aforded you in the upcoming months. The possibilities are endless. Expand your circle of experiences, both in and out of the classroom, and develop new and meaningful relationships with both students and adults alike.

Please note that this handbook applies to both the Middle and Upper Schools; however, there is a section at the end of the handbook that highlights policies and procedures that are just applicable to the Middle School. If a policy is not mentioned in the Middle School section, then students and parents should look to the main part of the handbook for guidance on the particular issue.

Pursue those areas where you will thrive and have success; explore the unknown and try new ac- tivities that may challenge you. All of us at Williston look forward to your arrival on campus and to being available to assist you in the coming year.

See you around campus!

Robert W. Hill III Head of School

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!1 WILLISTON NORTHAMPTON STUDENT AND PARENT HANDBOOK 2018–19

The Williston Northampton School Student and Parent of the school to alter, interpret, and implement its Handbook is published and distributed to members rules, policies, and procedures, before, during and of the Williston Northampton School community for after the school year. This handbook is for informa- the purpose of providing information on aspects of tional purposes only. This handbook is not intended student and campus life. Students, parents, faculty, to create, nor does it create, a contract or part of a administration, and staf should all read and be famil- contract in any way, including but not limited to, iar with the contents of this handbook, so that each between the Williston Northampton School and any member of the community knows and understands parent, guardian, or student afliated with or attend- the expectations of students within our community. ing the school. The Williston Northampton School While policies in this handbook will generally apply, may, in its sole discretion, alter, amend, or modify the the school may take actions that it determines to be policies and procedures in this handbook at any time in the best interests of the school, its faculty, and its before, during, or after the school year. students. This handbook does not limit the authority

PARENT AND STUDENT ACKNOWLEDGMENT

All members of the Williston Northampton School community are expected to support the school and its mis- sion. Toward that goal, we ask that parents and students formally acknowledge receiving this 2018-2019 Student and Parent Handbook by completing the form on the school’s information-management system, Veracross (see opposite page). The form allows parents and students to acknowledge that they have reviewed the handbook’s contents and agree to abide by the policies and procedures it outlines.

Note: If you have not done so already, please go to Veracross and complete the electronic acknowledg- ment form. All forms must be completed and submitted by September 1, 2018.

2 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook HOW TO CONNECT WITH THE WILLISTON COMMUNITY

Williston ofers a suite of resources designed to keep WEEKLY UPDATES parents fully informed and connected to the school. During the school year, parents will receive a Weekly Through these tools, parents have access to import- Update email from Dean of Students Kathryn Noble. ant school news, calendars of events, all necessary This email lets you know about key dates, upcom- forms, and updates about a student’s schedule, class ing events, news on campus, and opportunities for attendance, grades, and more. students. You do not need to sign up for this email; it will automatically come to you as a parent of a cur- ONLINE rent student. For new families and students, the school’s Technology Department sends passwords and de- SOCIAL MEDIA tailed instructions for assessing all the helpful fea- See photos and hear campus news through the tures of Veracross, our information-management sys- school’s social media channels. tem. The password you receive will allow you to sign in to your Parent and Student Portals. • Instagram: www.instagram.com/willistonns

This customized school information-management sys- • Facebook:www.facebook.com/ tem serves as the key vehicle of parent-school com- willistonnorthampton munication. Veracross allows parents and students to: • Twitter: www.twitter.com/willistonns • View and download important documents (including this Student and Parent Handbook and • Flickr: www:flickr.com/willistonnorthampton its related acknowledgment form); • YouTube: www.youtube.com/ • Find and complete various forms and permissions willistonnorthampton (for health information, field trips, Afternoon Program choices, and more); and

• Review a student’s schedule, assignments, and grades.

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!3 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Welcome to the School ...... 1 Graduation ...... 14

Williston Northampton Parent and Student School Expectations ...... 14 Handbook 2018–19 ...... 2 General Conduct ...... 14 Attendance and Absences ...... 15 Parent and Student Acknowledgment ...... 2 Tardiness ...... 17 Security ...... 17 How to Connect with the Williston Community .3 Dress Code and Appearance ...... 17 Permission to Leave Campus During Introduction ...... 7 the Day ...... 18 Our History ...... 7 Technology Basics ...... 19 Mission Statement ...... 7 Electronic Communications and Acceptable Our Philosophy ...... 7 Use Policy (AUP) ...... 19 Respect for Self and Others ...... 7 Library Computers...... 22 Responsibility and Trust ...... 7 Email ...... 22 Honesty and Integrity ...... 7 Social Media ...... 23 Our Values ...... 7 Cell Phones and Electronic Devices ...... 23 Inclusion at Williston ...... 8 Sexting ...... 23 Non-Discrimination Statement ...... 8 Use of Alcohol, Drugs, and Tobacco ...... 23 Parents’ Role in Alcohol/Drug Prevention ...... 24 Honor Code and Academic Honesty ...... 8 Medical Marijuana ...... 25 Code ...... 9 Sanctuary Policy ...... 25 Academic Dishonesty ...... 9 Safety Violations/Weapons On Campus ...... 26 Plagiarism ...... 9 Property Damage ...... 26 Consequences for Academic Dishonesty ...... 9 Search and Seizure ...... 26 Academic Program ...... 10 Driving Privileges/Of-Campus Privileges ...... 27 Promotion and Graduation Standards ...... 10 Jobs ...... 27 Required Courses ...... 10 Gambling ...... 27 Course Load and Homework ...... 11 Policies and Expectations for Interpersonal Special Studies ...... 11 Student Relationships ...... 28 Add/Drop ...... 11 Commitment to Respectful and Healthy Academic Expectations ...... 12 Relationships ...... 28 Tests and Assessments ...... 12 Sexual Intimacy and Consent ...... 28 Academic Honors ...... 12 Sanctuary Policy Applicable Prizes and Awards...... 13 to Sexual Assault ...... 29 Academic Probation ...... 13 Interpersonal Misconduct ...... 30 Standardized Testing ...... 13 Definitions ...... 30 Honors and Advanced Placement Courses ...... 13 Legal Definitions and School Policies ...... 32 Summer Reading and Other Preparation ...... 14 Reporting Complaints ...... 33 College Counseling ...... 14 False Complaints ...... 33

4 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook Responding to Complaints ...... 33 Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Notification to Parents/Guardians ...... 34 Students ...... 49 Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting ...... 35 Pets on Campus ...... 49 Parking, Drop-Of, and Pick-Up ...... 49 Daily Life at School ...... 36 Student Records and Transcripts ...... 50 Advising ...... 36 Student Center ...... 50 School Day Schedule ...... 38 Lost and Found ...... 50 Religious Services and Holidays ...... 38 School Supplies and Books ...... 50 Day Students ...... 38 Sammy Card and Button Bucks ...... 50 Early Dismissal ...... 38 Hydration Initiative ...... 50 School Meetings and Assemblies ...... 38 Gift Giving ...... 51 Van Pool Information...... 38 Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act ...... 51 Ride-Hailing Services on Campus ...... 38 Student Lockers ...... 38 Leadership and Community Service...... 51 Dining Services ...... 39 Student Council ...... 51 Student Activities and Organizations ...... 52 Residential Life at School ...... 39 Fundraising ...... 53 Dormitory Living ...... 39 Rooms ...... 40 Special Events ...... 53 Room Assignments ...... 41 School-Sponsored Social Events ...... 53 Emergency Preparedness ...... 41 Gatherings Of Campus Dorm Visitations ...... 42 Not Sponsored by the School ...... 53 Guests ...... 42 Fall Family Weekend and Visits ...... 54 Hours ...... 42 Supervised Home Visits ...... 54 Permission to Leave Campus...... 43 School Trips ...... 54 Of-Campus Travel and Visitations ...... 44 Special Overnight Trips ...... 55 Vacations ...... 45 Dances ...... 55 Campus Mailboxes...... 45 Check Cashing ...... 45 The Robert Parker Clapp Library ...... 55 Travel Arrangements...... 45 Loan Period ...... 55 Food Deliveries ...... 46 Returns and Renewals ...... 56 Interlibrary Loan ...... 56 General School Information ...... 46 Conduct ...... 56 Accreditation ...... 46 Governance ...... 46 The Afternoon Program ...... 56 Family-School Communication ...... 46 Parent-Teacher Communication Athletics ...... 57 and Conferences ...... 47 Eligibility ...... 57 Current Family Contact Information ...... 47 Commitment ...... 57 Multiple Households ...... 47 Athletic Clothing and Equipment ...... 58 Background Checks ...... 47 Game Day Information ...... 58 Student Media Information ...... 48 Athletic Event Updates ...... 58 Students 18 and Older ...... 48 Additional Expenses ...... 58 International Students ...... 48 Sportsmanship ...... 58 Discipline ...... 59

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!5 Sports Medicine ...... 59 Student Support Services ...... 77 Head Injury/Concussion Policy ...... 59 Academic Accommodations ...... 77 Academic Support Plans ...... 78 The Visual and Performing Arts Intensive Outside Testing/Evaluation ...... 79 Program ...... 62 Laboratory for Academic Success ...... 79 The Math Resource Center ...... 79 Discipline Guidelines ...... 63 The Writing Center ...... 79 Disciplinary Action ...... 63 Disciplinary Terms and Process ...... 64 Parental Comportment and Discipline Committee ...... 66 Re-Enrollment ...... 79 College Reporting ...... 67 Parental Comportment and Support Disclosure to Next Schools ...... 68 For School Policies ...... 79 Attendance and Decorum Units ...... 68 Re-Enrollment ...... 80 Behavioral Expectations While Away Family Leave...... 81 from Campus ...... 70 Parent Involvement ...... 70 Travel Dates ...... 82

Health and Wellness Services ...... 70 Middle School Section ...... 82 Health and Wellness Staf ...... 70 Academics ...... 82 Health and Wellness Services Facilities and Services ...... 84 Hours of Operation ...... 70 Community Expectations and Rules ...... 84 Appointments ...... 70 Communications ...... 85 Orientation ...... 71 Middle School Hours ...... 86 Health and Wellness Education ...... 71 Middle School Administration ...... 86 Health Records, Regulations, and Access ...... 71 Appendix A...... 86 Immunization and Communicable Illness ...... 71 Prohibition Against Hazing ...... 87 Health Insurance ...... 72 Medications at School ...... 72 Appendix B ...... 88 Self-Administration and Afternoon Program Options ...... 88 Medication Management ...... 73 Facility Hours ...... 90 Food Allergies ...... 73 Class Schedules ...... 92 Asthma Management ...... 74 Head Lice ...... 74 Campus Boundaries ...... 96 Reproductive Health ...... 74 Emergencies ...... 74 Parental Notification ...... 75 Behavioral Health Services ...... 75 Other Counseling ...... 75 Confidentiality...... 75 Substance Abuse Testing and Treatment Referrals ...... 76 Medical Leave...... 76

6 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook INTRODUCTION

OUR HISTORY with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. The school Williston Seminary was founded in 1841 by industri- believes further that the quality of the life and work alist and philanthropist Samuel Williston. The school we share together is enriched by generosity of spirit, was coeducational until 1864 and changed its name civility, a positive attitude, and the kind of consider- to Williston Academy in 1924. From 1916 forward, ation for others that goes well beyond respect alone. the school operated on two campuses: the “Old Campus” on Main Street in Easthampton and the RESPONSIBILITY AND TRUST “New Campus” at the present location. In 1951, op- All communities depend upon responsibility and trust erations were consolidated onto the “New Campus.” to function well. We must be able to rely upon each The school underwent two decades of expansion and other to keep our promises and to accept responsibil- improvement in the 1950s and 1960s. Northampton ity for our mistakes when we fall short. When a stu- School for Girls, which opened in 1924 on Pomeroy dent enrolls at Williston, the school expects that both Terrace in Northampton, was founded by Sarah B. the student and the student’s parents will adhere to Whitaker and Dorothy M. Bement, former teachers the values and the more specific rules of the school. at the Capen School for Girls in Northampton. The While there are consequences for failing to observe two schools shared musical, dramatic, and social the rules of the school, as an educational institution, activities. The Williston Northampton School came we understand that young people make mistakes and into existence in 1971 with the merging of Williston that important learning can come from dealing re- Academy and Northampton School for Girls. sponsibly and thoughtfully with one’s missteps.

MISSION STATEMENT HONESTY AND INTEGRITY The Williston Northampton School inspires students Members of our community are expected to prize the to live with purpose, passion, and integrity. integrity of their own word. Giving false or deceptive information in any circumstances casts serious doubt OUR PHILOSOPHY on that integrity and is considered an especially grave The school’s philosophy comprises the tenets of re- afront to the community. spect for self and others, responsibility and trust, and honesty and integrity, as more fully described below. OUR VALUES The school’s values are encapsulated by these tenets: RESPECT FOR SELF AND OTHERS Respect for self and others are two values essential Academic Excellence. Williston recognizes that within the school community, as well as to the dem- academic excellence is an essential component of a ocratic society of which we are a part. Respect means valuable boarding school experience. We promote ex- having regard for, and paying attention to, the welfare cellence and achievement in and out of the classroom and rights of others, in addition to protecting one’s by encouraging our community of learners to accept own well-being. The school strives to maintain a com- and engage in intellectual challenge. We set the high- munity free from all forms of intimidation and ha- est standards for teaching, learning, creativity, and rassment, and expects every individual to be treated scholarship within and across disciplines.

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!7 Individuality. Williston values individual growth and a broader and more applicable context for learning. expression as a way to create an authentic, diverse, We actively seek out partnerships in our community, and dynamic community. We expect students and including the outstanding colleges and universities faculty to develop, share, and pursue their unique surrounding our campus, to augment our school en- passions and interests. Williston supports personal vironment. development and self-discovery by promoting mean- ingful participation in a wide array of academic, ar- INCLUSION AT WILLISTON tistic, and athletic programs, and through community We believe an inclusive community is central to the service. school’s mission and, therefore, have established an Inclusion Committee on campus that is dedicated to Responsibility. Williston believes responsibility promoting a community culture that is respectful and begins with personal integrity and self-respect and aware of all individuals, approaches, and perspectives. extends to our relationships with others. We work to Comprised of students, faculty, and staf, the com- instill qualities such as fairness, honesty, empathy, mittee brings attention to the cultural identities in and generosity of spirit in our students and faculty our community and contributes to the programming in order to develop their leadership abilities and to surrounding related issues. allow them to make meaningful contributions within and beyond our school boundaries. NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT Williston admits qualified students of any race, color, Community. Williston cultivates strong relationships national or ethnic origin, ancestry, gender, religion, on many levels—student-to-student, student-to-teach- gender identity, gender expression, sexual orienta- er, and teacher-to-teacher—leveraging the boarding tion, or mental or physical disability, and extends to school structure to create a vibrant and genuine expe- them all the rights, privileges, programs, and activi- rience for students. Our unassuming community en- ties generally accorded or made available to students courages engagement and service, embraces diversity at the school. The school does not discriminate on of thought, and promotes strong stewardship of the the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, rights and responsibilities of the school. ancestry, gender, religion, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, or mental or physical Collaboration. Williston views collaboration as an disability, or any other status protected by applicable essential skill that is both relevant and necessary in law in the administration of its admissions, scholar- today’s world. By developing students’ abilities to ships, and loans, and its educational, athletic, and collaborate with each other, with teachers, and with other policies and programs. the greater community, Williston helps them gain

HONOR CODE AND ACADEMIC HONESTY

PHILOSOPHY and true, and conform to the standards imposed Honor is the intangible quality in each of us that by our conscience. At Williston, the honor system makes us esteem those things which are right, just, is based on the moral maturity, self-respect, and

8 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook cooperation of each member of the student body. of translation websites is prohibited by the Language The school’s honor system implies a trust that each Department. Any outside help (sources, proofreading, student will do homework, tests, and other forms typing, or copying of another’s work) that a student of work alone, unless allowed to do otherwise by a has used in preparation for a written, oral, or artistic faculty member, and will use the property of others work should be noted as such before the assignment only with permission of the owner. Students will at all is turned in for a grade. Similarly, any questions times be truthful and will use their influence to en- that a student might have about plagiarism should courage honorable conduct among all fellow students. be asked before a particular work is turned in to be graded. CODE Lying, stealing, cheating, and the toleration of such CONSEQUENCES FOR ACADEMIC acts are unacceptable at the school. The school ex- DISHONESTY pects all students to contact school leadership if they A student who gives or receives information or oth- are aware of a violation, or possible violation, of the erwise cheats on a quiz, test, or exam may be disci- honor system. plined and may receive an academic dean’s warning, probation, suspension, separation, or dismissal from ACADEMIC DISHONESTY the school (see definitions on page 64), as deter- As an academic institution, the school values aca- mined by the school in its sole discretion demic honesty and expects a student’s work to be the student’s own. If students find technical aspects of Ninth or Tenth Grade academic source citation and plagiarism confusing, it Generally, on a first ofense, the student meets with is their responsibility to seek assistance to correct any the academic dean, the teacher, and the advisor. The misunderstanding, and to accurately represent their assignment typically receives a grade of zero, and an use of printed, electronic, and human sources. The academic dean’s warning is sent to the student and improper giving or receiving of academic information to the student’s parents. On a second ofense, the may be considered cheating by the school, which is student may be placed on probation, suspended, or not tolerated. No piece of academic work completed dismissed. for one course may be used to earn credit in another. Eleventh or Twelfth Grade PLAGIARISM Generally, on a first ofense, the student meets with Using someone else’s ideas, words, phrases, and/or the academic dean, the teacher, and the advisor. The designs without giving credit is prohibited. All work assignment typically receives a grade of zero, and the that is turned in (whether written, oral, artistic, or student is issued an academic dean’s warning, or is programmed for a computer) should be the student’s placed on probation, depending on the seriousness of own, except where otherwise credited. Students are the ofense. sometimes encouraged to make references to other works, and these references (including individual It is unusual for any particular student to be referred ideas, words, phrases, and/or designs) must be cred- to the Academic Ofce for a second instance of cheat- ited properly. Internet material must be credited in ing or plagiarism. In these rare cases, probation al- the same way as any other reference source. The use most always results, and the school may also suspend

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!9 or dismiss a student under these circumstances. subvert the integrity of the academic program. The academic dean is generally responsible for making It is well understood by the Academic Ofce that these judgments and evaluations, and for administer- students may engage in unacceptable academic be- ing consequences for violations of academic honesty havior without intending to mislead the teacher or to that are reported to the academic dean.

ACADEMIC PROGRAM

When a student enters Williston at the Upper School accumulated 42 credits, including three credits in level, an academic program is designed by the aca- eleventh grade English. In order to receive a Williston demic dean after review of the student’s records and diploma, a student must complete 57 academic cred- any notes made by an admissions ofcer during the its in courses ofered at the ninth through twelfth admissions process. grade level.

For returning students in both the Middle and Upper Diploma requirements also include: a passing grade Schools, the academic program is drawn up initially in all courses taken in the senior year; enrollment in by the student and the student’s faculty advisor, and five courses in the third trimester senior year, each then reviewed by the department heads and the ac- worth one credit; enrollment at Williston throughout ademic dean. Students are advised to talk with their the senior year and through graduation ceremonies; teachers about course choices and placement, and positive citizenship; and regular participation in the parents are urged to participate early in the process Afternoon Program. through consultation with the faculty advisor in April and May. Please check the distribution requirements Diplomas are granted on the voted recommendation of particular colleges in which students may be in- of the faculty prior to graduation, and then confirmed terested, as requirements and recommended course by vote of the Board of Trustees. programs vary. REQUIRED COURSES PROMOTION AND GRADUATION The 57 academic credits required for a diploma must STANDARDS include: For promotion from ninth to tenth grade, a student must have successfully completed 12 credits, includ- English: 12 credits ing three credits in ninth grade English. (A yearlong Student must be enrolled in an English course course receives three credits and a trimester course each trimester (English Language Learning courses receives one credit.) For promotion from tenth to qualify). eleventh grade, a student must have successfully accumulated 27 credits, including three credits in Mathematics: 9 credits tenth grade English. For promotion from eleventh This must include Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra to twelfth grade, a student must have successfully II; most students go beyond these requirements.

10 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook Science: 6 credits SPECIAL STUDIES Three credits must be a yearlong physical science Williston Scholars (Physics or Chemistry) and three credits must be a The Williston Scholars program allows students to yearlong life science (Biology). Most students go be- pursue their individual academic and creative pas- yond these requirements. sions through a trimester of directed project work in a field of interest. Students in each department-spe- Language: 6 sequential credits cific Williston Scholars class engage as a cohort in Each student must complete at least six sequential self-chosen research projects under the close mentor- credits in the same language during grades 9 through ship and instruction of a Williston faculty member. 12. Students for whom English is not a first language Students are guided through the steps of project de- need not fulfill credits in this department. Many velopment, research, implementation, and ultimately, of the most competitive colleges and universities presentation. Students also connect with content ex- either recommend or require at least three years of perts both inside the school and out, drawing resourc- continuous language study. As a result, the College es from the intellectual wealth of the Pioneer Valley’s Counseling Ofce strongly recommends that students colleges and universities. Students with exemplary study a language through at least the third level. projects will be eligible for special recognition and departmental honors. History and Global Studies: 8 credits Three- and four-year students must take the ADD/DROP three-credit World Civilizations class in the ninth or At the beginning of the fall trimester (for yearlong tenth grade. Another three credits must be taken in courses) and at the beginning of each trimester (for U.S. History (6310, 6390, 6592). For two-, three-, and trimester electives), an Upper School student may four-year students, at least one of the remaining two withdraw from a course, with the approval of the credits must be a religion or philosophy course (6700 teacher, advisor, and the academic dean. No record level). Note: Many colleges require a third full year of the course will appear on the student’s transcript of history. if the withdrawal occurs before interim comments are recorded (see Grade Reports, below). With the Visual and Performing Arts: 3 credits exception of these time periods, all withdrawals are Two-, three-, and four-year students must complete recorded Withdrawn/Passing or Withdrawn/Failing. three credits. Students are urged to select from ofer- Generally, no requests for withdrawal from a course ings both in the studio/performance courses and in may be considered or approved after interim com- the humanities courses. ments are recorded.

COURSE LOAD AND HOMEWORK Except under the most unusual of circumstances, stu- Students in grades 9 through 12 are expected to take dents may not add a course later than seven class days five courses each trimester, and students should ex- after it has begun. A change in course level, for exam- pect about 45 minutes of homework in each class pri- ple from French III Honors to French III, would be or to each meeting. Occasionally, a student might be an exception to this policy so long as the established permitted to take six courses for a trimester, but only course change procedure is followed. after approval by the academic dean.

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!11 ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS TESTS AND ASSESSMENTS The following are generally accepted guidelines: All courses have periodic, timed tests that are admin- • All teachers are expected to share the assignment istered according to established schedules, standard for the next class in, or prior to, the previous time frames, and goals appropriate to each course. class. In addition, all teachers should post assign- Assessments at the end of each trimester are gener- ments in Veracross by 3:30 p.m. Sunday through ally one and a half hours long with required review Friday and by 1:00p.m. on Saturdays. classes scheduled for subsequent assessments. • If a teacher is late to class and the teacher has not informed the students or some responsible adult Grade Reports regarding that lateness, then the students will be The school year consists of three trimesters with permitted to leave the class after 15 minutes, if formal numerical grades recorded at the end of each at the start of the class period the students have trimester. Interim comments for some students may made the lateness known to the department head, also be recorded at the midpoint of a particular tri- another teacher in the department, or an available mester. Interim and trimester grades and comments administrator, so that steps might be taken to con- are made available electronically to parents, students, tact the teacher, and the class might be held. and advisors on Veracross (see page 3). • Excessive homework assignments will not be assigned during the Thanksgiving, December, or Comments from teachers will also be posted in each spring vacations. For regular courses this entails trimester for students whose grades are below 70. no more than a single night’s assignment and for Letters from advisors are posted in December. AP classes no more than would normally be as- signed for two nights. ACADEMIC HONORS • Students who are excused from school for re- The passing and college-recommending grade at ligious holidays, or due to other legitimate cir- Williston is 60. Qualifications for Upper School hon- cumstances, should expect that their teachers or roll are as follows: will aford them a reasonable amount of time to • Honors. A minimum grade point average of 87. complete missed assignments, and when appro- • High Honors. A minimum grade point average priate, some one-on-one time outside of class to of 92. get caught up. Honors designations are based on weighted trimester • Teachers will limit their teaching to the assigned grade point averages. All honors and advanced place- class period. If unusual circumstances result in a ment (AP) courses receive a five-point bonus in the teacher continuing a class activity past the end of grade point average only. the class period, the teacher will issue and sign a late pass to any student who may require one. The highest honor for a student is election to the • For the three long weekends during the school Cum Laude Society, a national organization that year, homework is normally assigned, although recognizes high academic achievement in indepen- assignments are usually less than a typical night’s dent secondary schools. Students eligible for election work. No papers may be due or tests given on the are those seniors who, in the judgment of the faculty first class meeting returning from break. membership, combine academic excellence and achievement with honorable citizenship, sound char-

12 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook acter, and active participation in school life. notified promptly of the academic probation, as well as the features of any assistance plan. PRIZES AND AWARDS The Upper School bestows numerous endowed book Seniors, including postgraduates, who are in jeopardy prizes for academic achievement at the awards assem- of failing a yearlong course, or who have failed a first bly. Also presented at this time are the major class trimester course, may be required to withdraw from prizes for outstanding achievement in all areas of the school at the end of the fall trimester. school life. These major prizes include: The Bowdoin Book Prize (ninth grade); The Smith Book Award STANDARDIZED TESTING (ninth grade); The Williams Book Prize (tenth grade); In mid-October, tenth and eleventh grade students The Yale Book Prize (tenth grade); The Harvard are registered for and expected to take the PSAT Book Prize (eleventh grade); The Dartmouth Book administered by Williston on campus. Williston rec- Prize (eleventh grade); The Holy Cross Book Prize ommends that eleventh grade students take the SAT (eleventh grade); and The Yale/Granniss Book Prize and ACT in the winter/spring, and either or both tests (eleventh grade). an additional one to two times in the fall of their se- nior year. Many students also choose to take the SAT In addition to these prizes for underclassmen, 12 subject tests to meet college application requirements senior prizes are awarded at graduation. The top in addition to the SAT, on a schedule similar to that three senior prizes are: the Valedictory Prize for the of the SAT. first scholar of the class, the Archibald V. Galbraith Prize for the outstanding senior boy, and the Sarah B. Results of the PSAT arrive in early December, at Whitaker Award (the White Blazer) for the outstand- which time students are instructed to obtain their ing senior girl. scores from the College Counseling Ofce and bring them home for winter break. The College Counseling ACADEMIC PROBATION Ofce recommends that students discuss their scores For any student with a full load of five courses, a tri- with their parents over winter break and bring their mester grade report that includes two grades lower results to their first college counseling meeting, than 70 or one grade lower than 60 will generally which generally takes place in January. At that point, result in the status of academic probation. A student an individualized strategy can be developed for who is carrying only four courses will generally be standardized testing. For the ACT and SAT results, placed on academic probation with one grade below students must contact those testing companies direct- 70. If the student’s grades at the end of the following ly. Please keep in mind that Williston only registers trimester are not sufciently improved for removal students for the PSAT; students must register for the from academic probation status, the student will be SAT and ACT through the respective websites: www. permitted to continue at Williston only at the discre- actstudent.org and www.sat.collegeboard.org. tion of the head of school and the academic dean. A student placed on academic probation will typically HONORS AND ADVANCED PLACEMENT meet with the student’s teachers, advisor, and the COURSES academic dean to formulate an assistance plan. The In May, the academic departments and the Middle student and the student’s parents will generally be School faculty provide the academic dean with the

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!13 names of the students who are recommended for COLLEGE COUNSELING placement in honors and/or advanced placement The College Counseling Ofce provides both ad- (AP) sections. While the school endeavors to respond vice and information to students and their families to legitimate requests for specific courses and to keep throughout the research, application, and selection students and parents informed about the status of re- process. The counselors generally work not only in quests for honors and AP courses, placement in these close contact with students’ advisors, teachers, and courses is ultimately made by the academic dean in coaches, but also with admissions ofcers at colleges consultation with the academic department heads. and universities in order to help ofces of admissions All AP courses follow approved syllabi, which prepare gain the most complete understanding of each stu- students for the AP exam in May. Students who enroll dent’s achievements and promise. The college coun- in an AP course should expect to take the AP exam. seling process generally begins in the fall of eleventh The cost of each AP exam in 2018 was $94. Tests are grade, after students take the PSAT and receive their administered on campus and students are registered results. by the school. GRADUATION SUMMER READING AND OTHER Williston’s graduation provides a special opportunity PREPARATION for family and friends to celebrate the unique gifts of During the summer, students should read both as- the graduating students. Attendance at graduation is a signed books and optional selections. Also, depending community event and as such is required not only for on their course selections for the upcoming year, seniors, but for all Upper School students. Graduation some students may need to review additional mate- is a special, formal occasion. Formal dress code is rials to help them prepare. Information about these required for all Upper School students. The required materials comes from the academic departments via dress for graduates is white dresses or dress trousers the school’s website www.williston.com/summer- with dark jackets and ties. This year’s graduation date work. If students or parents have questions, depart- is May 25, 2019. ment heads will be happy to help.

SCHOOL EXPECTATIONS

GENERAL CONDUCT immediate efect on the discipline or the general wel- Williston’s values of respect for self and others, fare of the school, even if such conduct takes place responsibility and trust, and honesty and integri- of campus, during non-school hours, or on breaks ty, inform the daily life of the school and all of its from school. Such conduct will be evaluated at the members. Students may be subject to discipline for sole discretion of the school, and the school may de- misconduct which is, or may be, disruptive of the viate from the regular disciplinary process, as may be educational process; interferes with the work of the deemed appropriate under the circumstances. school; is contrary to the mission of the school; im- pinges on the rights of other students, employees, or Student behavior—whether a day or boarding stu- members of the school community; or has a direct or dent, whether physically on campus or of campus,

14 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook whether during the school day or at night, on va- icant part of the school day due to illness. cation or at any other time while enrolled at the school—is subject to disciplinary review. The school Williston takes expectations about students’ school is well respected, and those who conduct themselves commitments very seriously and excessive unexcused in ways that diminish this reputation may be held absences from school commitments will not be toler- accountable. ated. More specific expectations are described below.

Williston is committed to the physical and emotional Leave of Absence well-being of every student, and the rules that follow Should a student’s extended absence from school be reflect our understanding of adolescents, their need necessary or desired, a leave of absence may be ap- for support and education, and the necessity of clear propriate. A leave for medical reasons will be handled guidelines that govern behavior. in accordance with the school’s Medical Leave pol- icy, which can be found in the Health and Wellness ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCES Services section of this handbook (see page 76). The Attendance is expected at all classes, assessments, school may recommend or grant a request for a vol- assemblies, athletic commitments, college counseling untary leave of absence for other compelling reasons. appointments, Health and Wellness Services ap- The initial request for a voluntary leave of absence pointments, required meals, and all other scheduled should be made to the dean of students. The school Williston events. If a day student is ill and will be requires sufcient supporting documentation prior absent, a phone call (413-529-3266) or email to Jenna to the approval of any leave. The sufciency of any Motyka in the Dean’s Ofce should be made prior supporting documentation will be determined by the to 8:30 a.m. If a boarding student is ill, that student school in its sole discretion. must go to Health and Wellness Services. Security is available to transport ill students. During the aca- The school makes the final determination as to demic day, a student may be excused for illness or in- whether to grant a leave of absence, as well as the du- jury, but the student must go to Health and Wellness ration of the leave and the conditions necessary for a Services as soon as possible to obtain this permission student’s return (including, but not limited to, wheth- prior to missing a commitment. Under most circum- er the student must reapply for admission). Whether stances, the student will not be excused after the fact. the period of leave is counted towards academic In cases where the school nurse or physician has de- requirements for promotion and graduation will be termined that a student is well enough, the student is determined by the school in its sole discretion. required to be in attendance at school activities. Leaves of absence may be noted in the student’s edu- Students are expected to attend at least 50 percent cational record, including on the student’s transcript. of their classes and scheduled commitments to be A leave of absence will not be used in lieu of disci- allowed to participate in athletic or extracurricular ac- plinary action to address violations of the school’s tivities later in the day. Health and Wellness Services code of conduct, rules, or policies. Additionally, a staf, coaches, deans, and activities directors will gen- student granted a leave of absence while on academic erally not allow a student to participate in after-school and/or disciplinary status should expect to return on or evening activities if the student has missed a signif- that same status.

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!15 Families remain financially responsible for tuition arrangements, as doing so may be to the student’s and other fees while the student is on a leave of ab- disadvantage. Assessments will not be given early and sence. International students are advised to consult students will be required to take assessments when with the director of the international student pro- they return from break. gram to address any afect the leave of absence may have on student visa status. For international students, travel arrangements should be communicated directly to the director of Classes and School Functions international student programs and the coordinator Failure to attend scheduled commitments generally of student services. At the end of the trimester, inter- results in attendance units (see definition on page national students may stay on campus for one addi- 68) and specific consequences that include academic tional night for next-day flights. penalties for classroom absences. Unexcused class absence results in a zero grade for any work due or Planned Absences completed in that class. Students are responsible for For any planned absences (such as college visits, sig- making up all academic work that is missed during an nificant family commitments, etc.), parents should absence. The school may deny either academic credit call the Dean’s Ofce to notify the school well in ad- or a numeric grade to a student who misses eight or vance. The student should request a special absence more class meetings for any individual course in a form (blue sheet) from the Dean’s Ofce and bring trimester. it to each teacher, coach, and advisor to discuss. The student should ask about work that the student will Weekends and Vacations be missing due to the absence and schedule when it Early departures for weekends or vacations, or late re- will be made up. When the form is completed and turns that result in missed commitments, are strongly signed, the student should submit it to the Dean’s discouraged and may be considered an unexcused ab- Ofce for approval at least 24 hours in advance of the sence and require express permission from the dean planned absence. of students and the academic dean. The vacation schedules and travel dates for the upcoming year are Day Student Absences posted on the school’s calendar well in advance of the If a day student is unable to attend school, a parent or school year. guardian should telephone or email the Dean’s Ofce by 8:30 a.m. to advise the school of the absence. Parents are responsible for arranging air travel reser- Students and parents are encouraged to arrange vations and other transportation for their child, while medical and other appointments after school hours, making certain that such arrangements fit with the when possible. If a student will miss class due to an academic schedule. Parents are strongly encouraged outside appointment, a phone call or email to the to book flights several months in advance for travel Dean’s Ofce prior to its occurrence is expected and during peak vacation periods. appreciated.

The school will generally deny (and parents are dis- Medical Excuses couraged from making) requests to change a student’s During the school day, any student who is feeling ill final assessment schedule to accommodate travel should go to Health and Wellness Services; medical

16 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook excuses from class and other commitments are issued DRESS CODE AND APPEARANCE only from Health and Wellness Services. The dress code is based on common sense, modera- tion, and respect for self and others. The expectation Make-Up Work is that all clothing be modest, neat, clean, in good Students must take responsibility for work missed repair, and fit properly. When a student is in doubt because of absences. Obtaining class notes from about whether a particular outfit or piece of clothing classmates and assignments from teachers is the conforms to the dress code, it is the student’s respon- student’s responsibility. Students should be fully pre- sibility to obtain an opinion from the Dean’s Ofce pared to participate in the next class, including taking before wearing it. quizzes or tests and handing in papers, unless they have missed multiple classes as a result of illness, or Students who are not in dress code may not be admit- there are extenuating circumstances and the student ted to class and may be asked to return to their dorm requires (and has requested) extra help from the or locker to change before being admitted into class. teacher. While away from the classroom, they will be respon- sible for all missed academic work and will not be TARDINESS given additional time on assessments. Students are expected to arrive on time for all classes, advisee meetings, class meetings, assemblies, and Academic Day Dress other special programs. For day students, it is the Top. Students may wear dress shirts, turtle necks, polo parent’s responsibility to contact the school to excuse style shirts with a collar, and blouses that are formal the student or the tardiness will be considered unex- in appearance (similar to what would be worn with a cused. Students are reminded that three occasions of business suit). T-shirts in any form are not acceptable. tardiness to school commitments results in an atten- Shoulders and midrif must be covered at all times and dance unit (see page 68). necklines must be professional; in some cases this will require a second layer of clothing, such as a sweater. SECURITY All shirts designed to be tucked in, such as dress ox- Williston takes the safety of its students and the fords and shirts with tails, must be tucked in. community very seriously. The director of security is the direct contact for concerns about safety and to Bottom. Students may wear skirts, dresses, jeans, report theft. There are systems in place in the event pants, or shorts, provided they are in good condition of an emergency on campus, and regular drills are and not shorter than mid-thigh in length. Belts are conducted to help those on campus become familiar expected to be worn with pants and shorts. with the procedures. While school is in session, there is 24-hour security coverage. The following are not permitted: • flip-flops, sports sandals, slippers, or croc-style In addition, the school provides an identification card rubber clogs to all students, the “Sammy Card” (see page 50). For • sweatshirts (except on Williston Wear Days, see more about the other uses of this ID card, please con- below) tact the Business Ofce. • exposed undergarments • cargo, athletic, military camouflage, drawstring,

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!17 or carpenter-style pants or shorts student on these occasions. The guidelines for aca- • clothing with inappropriate text (at the sole dis- demic day dress regarding necklines and the length of cretion of the school) skirts or dresses are also to be followed. • coats or jackets, intended for outdoor use, worn to cover unacceptable dress PERMISSION TO LEAVE CAMPUS • hats or head coverings (other than those worn for DURING THE DAY medical reasons or in accordance with sincerely Students are generally allowed to travel within held religious tenets) in buildings other than dor- campus boundaries during the academic day and on mitories and the Athletic Center weekends. Campus boundaries are defined as the • yoga pants or other tight-fitting spandex pants or Williston campus and the downtown Easthampton shorts area, bordered by Route 141 and Nini’s Restaurant • rompers to the east, Williston Avenue to Nonotuck Park to Galbraith Fields to the east and south, the traf- Williston Wear Days fic rotary to the north, and Route 10 to the west. When announced, students may wear “Williston (See campus map on page 96.) Before leaving the Wear” as a top but must remain in academic day dress Williston campus, day students must sign out at the below the waist. “Williston Wear” includes items with Schoolhouse reception area, and boarding students by ofcial Williston insignias, purchased at the school using the REACH system, and all students must sign store or as team apparel. Athletic uniforms/jerseys are in upon returning. not appropriate. In order to be allowed to travel beyond campus Student Dress After the Academic Day boundaries during the academic day or on the week- At times other than during the academic day, the end, a student must comply with the following steps: dress code is relaxed, and sweatshirts and clean athletic-style clothing may be worn. However, at all Boarding and day students must submit a request to times, no clothing may be worn that advertises any- leave in REACH. The student must provide the pro- thing inconsistent with school rules (for example, posed itinerary for the trip, including the destination, alcohol), underwear may not be visible, and bathing date/time of departure and return, mode of transpor- suits are not allowed except in the pool area. In the tation, and, if traveling by car, the identification of Birch Dining Commons, students are expected to the driver. (Note: the school does not allow students dress appropriately, and sleeveless shirts or athletic to use ride-hailing companies such as Uber. For more scrimmage vests are not allowed. information, please see the Ride-Hailing Services on Campus policy on page 38. The REACH request for Formal Clothing permission will be sent to the student’s parent and Formal clothing is required for formal dinners and the dean on duty. When the student’s parent has ap- school gatherings, many athletic trips, and some proved the leave, the dean will make a determination of-campus excursions. The formal dress code con- on the request. If the dean approves the permission, sists of suits, sport jackets, dress shirts and ties, tur- the student may then sign out on REACH when the tlenecks, dresses, dress pants, skirts, and shoes and student is leaving campus and sign in upon the stu- socks. Jeans and sneakers are inappropriate for any dent’s return. The purpose of these protocols is to

18 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook keep the school informed of students’ whereabouts Copying/Printing when traveling of campus, independent of any Through Williston’s network, students have access school-sponsored activity or trip. When planning day to copying and printing in the library and at various departures, students should keep in mind that they other locations around campus. are expected to meet all school commitments—ac- ademic, athletic, or extracurricular. If a student’s Curricular Technology Program Computers plans change and/or the student will not be able to As part of Williston’s CTP, every student is issued a arrive back on campus at the expected return time, Microsoft Surface Pro 4 computer, keyboard, charger, the student must call the dean on duty to discuss the and stylus. The computer comes configured with the situation. As a general rule, ninth and tenth graders academic software that a student will need for the should not expect to receive permission to travel be- school year. yond campus boundaries during the academic week unless there are extenuating circumstances. ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS AND ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY (AUP) TECHNOLOGY BASICS How we use technology is an extension of how we Williston recognizes the increasingly important role wish to be treated and how we wish to treat each oth- that technology plays in the lives of our students er in our community. Overall, students should treat and, through the Technology Department, strives to the school, the people, and our network with respect. provide exceptional technical service and guidance The Williston community holds the values of hon- to everyone in our community. The Technology esty and respect for others in high regard, and these Department collaborates with teachers, staf, and values extend not only to our day-to-day, face-to-face students to ensure that technology on campus is used interactions with other community members, but appropriately and productively. also to how we behave when we interact with others online, through the use of social media or electronic The Technology Department is located in the lower devices. The purpose of this Acceptable Use Policy level of Memorial Hall and is open during the week (AUP) is to outline the expectations of our commu- from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and on class Saturdays from nity members when it comes to the use of computers 8 a.m. to noon. and other electronic devices, the school’s computer network, and access to the Internet, both on campus Internet Access and outside of Williston’s physical network. Whether Williston’s wireless network covers all of the build- physically on campus or of campus, whether during ings on campus, including the dormitories and aca- the school day or at night, on vacation or at any other demic buildings. Students will be given directions on time while enrolled at the school, whether linked to how to access the network during Welcome Days. the school’s network from in school or from a remote location or not at all, or using a personal or computer Document Storage or communication device on or of campus, students Each student receives cloud-based file storage are expected to comply with this AUP and any other through OneDrive for Business as part of Williston’s applicable policies and procedures as long as they are Curricular Technology Program (CTP). enrolled at the school, as set forth in this handbook and as further described below.

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!19 Access to Williston’s network and related technical The school may access, view, or monitor any infor- support and services is provided to students primarily mation or communication stored on or transmitted for educational purposes, though the school under- over the network, or on or over equipment that has stands that limited use of the school’s technology been used to access the school’s network, and it may resources for recreational activity may be appropriate. be required by law to allow third parties to do so. Students using these services agree, by virtue of using Electronic data, for example, may become evidence the services, to abide by the guidelines outlined in in legal proceedings. In addition, others may inad- this AUP, and to any applicable policies and proce- vertently view messages or data as a result of routine dures outlined in this handbook. In general, the prop- systems maintenance and monitoring, or misdelivery. er use of the school’s network and related technical support and services supports the goals of our aca- Students must recognize that there is no guarantee demic community, protects our community members, of privacy associated with their use of school tech- and helps to ensure that the school and its students nology resources. Students should not expect that comply with all federal, state, and local laws. email, voice mail, or other information created or maintained in the system (even those marked “per- While Williston respects the privacy of our commu- sonal” or “confidential”) are private, confidential, or nity members, it is important to understand that net- secure. By accessing the school’s system, each student work and technical support and services used by the has consented to the school’s right to view and/or community fall under the school’s purview and are monitor the school’s network and all of its associated the property of the school. As a result, the school may accounts. access or monitor all network activity and content (including email). The school also may confiscate The school may monitor and track all behavior and both school-issued and personal devices or otherwise interaction that takes place among members of the restrict or revoke a student’s technology privileges if school community or that involves use of the school’s there is reasonable suspicion (as determined by the name, whether through the use of technology on the school in its sole discretion) that the device has been school’s premises or elsewhere. Students are respon- used to violate this AUP. Students who violate the sible for all activity on their own account. Only the provisions of this AUP may be subject to discipline authorized owner of the account may use individual through the Dean’s Ofce. accounts or passwords, except where explicitly autho- rized by a member of the technology team. Students This AUP describes behavioral expectations for stu- should not share their passwords with anyone. dents with regard to the use of technology, and is Evidence of security violations should be reported grounded in the tenets of respect for privacy, own- immediately to [email protected]. ership, and copyright; respect for resources and for others; and respect for self and community. Students will be held accountable for unattended ac- counts and for use of their computer or communica- Respect for Privacy, Ownership, and tion device if such equipment is left unattended and/ Copyright or used by another individual. The school’s network resources, including all tele- phone and data lines, are the property of the school. Users must follow all copyright, trademark, patent,

20 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook and other laws governing intellectual property. Piracy should not transmit personal information without the and plagiarism are strictly forbidden. Students must permission of a parent, teacher, or school ofcial. strictly adhere to all software licenses. The use of public computers and other school-con- Respect for Resources and for Others trolled hardware, such as phone lines, or the use of Students may not modify the configuration or con- personal computer and communication devices, for tent of software installed on any school computers. the transmission or receipt of racist, pornographic, or Users may not remove network cables, keyboards, or other inappropriate material is prohibited. any other components. Students are prohibited from keeping pornography Students may not access, or try to access, network in any form at school, including, but not limited to, resources not intended for them. magazines, posters, videos, electronic files, or other electronic materials. Installation of wireless networking equipment on campus is prohibited without permission from the Students may not access the school’s network or Technology Department. equipment or use their personal computer and com- munication devices to create, access, download, edit, Students should store personal files only on their view, store, send, or print materials that are illegal, own cloud storage account. Any information that a ofensive, harassing, intimidating, discriminatory, student leaves on the internal hard disk (including sexually explicit, or graphic, pornographic, obscene, the desktop or any other part of their user account) of or otherwise inconsistent with the values and general a school-owned computer may be deleted at any time, standards for community behavior at the school. without warning. Students may not engage in cyber-bullying, harass- Network-based games and chat sessions may be disal- ment, or sexting, in violation of the school’s Bullying lowed at the discretion of the school. Prevention and Intervention Plan and related polices as stated in this handbook (see page 30). Use of the school’s computers for commercial pur- poses, advertising, or accessing inappropriate sites is Students may not alter electronic communications to prohibited. hide their identity or impersonate another person.

Use of the school’s computers may not interfere Students may not be “friends” with, or otherwise with or disrupt the use of others’ connecting to the directly connected to, any school employee on any school’s network. social networking site that is not used primarily for educational purposes. If a student is contacted by a Respect for Self and Community school employee via non-school channels for non-ed- Students should not transmit personal contact or oth- ucational purposes, the student should immediately er identifying information (phone numbers, address- notify the student’s advisor. es, photos, etc.) about themselves or others to per- sons or parties whose identity cannot be verified, and Students may not record sound or images of teachers

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!21 or others without their permission. mation to the chief financial ofcer, chief information ofcer, dean of students, or a faculty members. Students may not post material online that, in the school’s discretion, reflects poorly on the school. LIBRARY COMPUTERS There are Mac computers in the library for students, Forbidden Practices faculty, and staf members to use during the academic Students are forbidden from the following practices: year. These computers allow access to email and the • using POP and SMTP for email Internet. It is expected that students will adhere to • using peer-to-peer file-sharing software the following guidelines while using these computers: • using personal wireless access points or routers • sharing system passwords • Students are expected to save their work to their • renaming computers cloud storage or a flash drive. • assigning static IP addresses • The volume level may not be disturbing to other • engaging in Internet gambling of any kind people in the area. Students wishing to listen to • engaging in identity theft music must bring their own headphones. If the • using any software product that can be deemed a volume on the computer is disturbing, the student “hacking” utility responsible may be asked to leave. • attempting to circumvent the AUP • Computers designated for “academic purposes” • selling school-issued computer equipment and/or may not be used for recreational use; academic peripherals work always takes precedence over recreational • obtaining entertainment through methods that use on any computer. violate copyright laws Any violation of these guidelines will be a violation of the school’s AUP. Students failing to comply with the Parents should understand that: guidelines will be asked to leave. • it is the responsibility of all parents to read this policy and discuss it with the student. EMAIL • teachers and administrators will strive to help Faculty, staf, administrators, and students can be students understand this policy at a level that is reached via their Williston email address: usually the appropriate to their age and maturity. first initial followed by the last name and @williston. • if a student willfully damages the hardware or com (e.g., [email protected]). software of any school-owned technology, the par- ent will be responsible for paying for the repair or Seniors will continue to have access to email until the replacement of that technology. first day of July following their graduation, at which point their accounts will be disabled/removed and no Reporting Violations longer accessible. Students are expected to assist in the enforcement of the AUP. If a student suspects a violation of this policy, SOCIAL MEDIA or if a student feels nervous or uncomfortable about The school understands the desire of students to use another school community member’s use of technol- social networking websites, Internet bulletin boards, ogy, the student should immediately report this infor- blogs, chat rooms, and other online resources or web-

22 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook sites (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, er member of the community supervising the class, Shutterfly, Wikipedia), collectively referred to as activity or other school-sponsored event. In addition, “Social Media.” Whether or not a student chooses the campus is a drone-free zone and students are to use Social Media is a decision the student should expected to refrain from using or possessing drones make in consultation with the student’s parents. while on campus. However, to the extent that students, parents, or members of the school community represent the SEXTING school to each other and to the wider community, The school prohibits students from using technology participation in such Social Media should be done devices (whether owned by the student or the school, responsibly with a mind toward how both the forum whether through use of the school’s network or out- where one chooses to participate and the content side of the school’s network, and whether used on or posted reflect on that person individually and on the of campus) to send or create any written message, school. Moreover, issues concerning respect for the image, or video that contains explicit representations privacy of students, copyrights, trademarks, and con- or references to sexual conduct, sexual excitement, or fidentiality of sensitive information are all important nudity (commonly known as sexting). Massachusetts to understand before participating in Social Media. law prohibits anyone (regardless of age) from dissem- With the foregoing in mind, the school encourages inating obscene or pornographic images of minors, students and parents to create an atmosphere of trust and the school may contact law enforcement should and individual accountability when accessing Social any student violate this policy. Media and the school’s network. Students are expect- ed to comply with the policies outlined in the AUP USE OF ALCOHOL, DRUGS, AND regardless of whether they are using school-provided TOBACCO equipment or their own personal devices. Possession and/or Use Possession and/or use of illegal or mood-altering CELL PHONES AND ELECTRONIC drugs, or possession and/or use of drug apparatus, or DEVICES the possession and/or consumption of alcoholic bev- Use of cell phones or other electronic devices for erages is prohibited. Massachusetts laws prohibit the verbal conversation is not permitted at any time in purchase, possession, receipt, or use of illegal drugs, any of the academic buildings or in the Birch Dining and the use of alcohol and marijuana is prohibited Commons, the Phillips Stevens Chapel, or the Clapp for those under the age of 21. Students who break Library. While students are encouraged to engage so- these rules are in violation of state laws as well as cially with each other in the Birch Dining Commons, school policy. In addition, the use of inhalants (not use of such mobile devices to retrieve or send infor- medically prescribed), or the use or possession of mation is allowed during informal meals and, with any prescribed drug which is psychoactive or legally faculty permission, in classrooms. These devices may considered a Class 2 Controlled Substance (such as be used in the Reed Campus Center on the lower Ritalin or Dexedrine), will be treated from a disci- levels, and in dormitories (except when specifically pline standpoint as an illegal drug when a student has prohibited). In addition, students are prohibited from not followed all Health and Wellness Services/school using cell phones for video or voice recording without policies and procedures in obtaining and possessing it. the express permission of the faculty member or oth-

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!23 Alcohol/Drug Testing The first tobacco violation typically triggers an inter- If a student is confronted with concerns about being vention with Health and Wellness Services and the under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and there is Dean’s Ofce. Use of nicotine dispensing medications reasonable suspicion of use premised upon the stu- is an option that may be available under the supervi- dent’s behavior or the circumstances, the school may sion of Health and Wellness Services. More informa- test the student for alcohol and other drugs with an tion about the intervention process is available from immediate drug screen or test at Health and Wellness Health and Wellness Services or the Dean’s Ofce. Services. The test will be administered by the nurse on duty and/or the dean on duty. PARENTS’ ROLE IN ALCOHOL/DRUG PREVENTION Disciplinary Response The following goals have been developed for parents When a student is placed on probation for drug or as a guide for discussion and as a foundation for com- alcohol use or possession, the following will usually munity agreement. occur: • an of-campus suspension As parents we will: • requirement of a professional assessment by a • become informed about the facts of alcohol and certified drug and alcohol evaluator within two drugs so that we can discuss these substances weeks of the suspension (costs for evaluation and credibly with our children. testing to be borne by the family) • develop and communicate to our children a clear • requirement to abide by the terms of the condi- position about alcohol and drug use. tional reinstatement agreement and explicit per- • promote and encourage social activities without mission for periodic drug testing for the duration alcohol and drugs. of the student’s enrollment at the school (the • not serve alcohol to other people’s children who student may not return to school until this agree- are under the legal drinking age or allow un- ment has been signed) der-age people to bring alcohol or drugs into our homes. • support school and law enforcement policies Note: Students who sell drugs or alcohol or who regarding the use of alcohol and drugs by young purchase or procure them for other students can people. expect to be dismissed on the first ofense. • request and endorse the implementation of comprehensive and meaningful alcohol and drug abuse prevention programs. Tobacco Use • In addition we will: Williston is a tobacco-free campus. Due to the over- • take responsibility for our own children and whelming evidence as to the negative efects and be concerned for the welfare of the children of addictive nature of tobacco, the school does not allow others. its use by students. While on campus or participating • set a responsible example for our children. in any school-sponsored activities, students may not • attempt to resist peer pressure and encourage our possess, smoke, or chew tobacco products of any children to do likewise. kind. This includes the use of e-cigarettes and vaping. • help our children develop healthy concepts of

24 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook themselves and efective problem-solving, deci- school or while participating in a school-sponsored sion-making, and communication skills. or school-afliated activity, the school may send the • not sponsor or condone activities our children or student home. we are unable to control (such as parties with lim- ited or no adult supervision). SANCTUARY POLICY • communicate openly with other parents to estab- In any medical crisis, even if drug- or alcohol-in- lish a sense of community and to provide support duced, it is imperative for medical evaluation and in giving consistent messages to our young people. attention to begin as soon as possible. To encourage • The school’s director of Health and Wellness is students to seek medical help in an emergency sit- available for consultation with parents and stu- uation, students are assured that obtaining Health dents on a variety of issues, including drugs and and Wellness Services medical assistance, or asking alcohol. a faculty member to obtain emergency medical assis- tance, will initiate medical rather than disciplinary MEDICAL MARIJUANA intervention. The school treats the use of medical marijuana by stu- dents similarly to the way the school handles the use Students may bring sanctuary into efect for them- of other prescription medications: parental consent selves or a friend whose health is at risk because of is required and the student must have a medication alcohol or drug use by contacting the on-call nurse action plan on file with the school nurse covering the or dean on duty at (413) 529-3911. This request must use of medical marijuana. Because the use of medical be student-initiated and occur prior to any faculty marijuana is subject to additional regulations beyond member coming upon a student who is under the in- the regulations in place for the use of other lawful, fluence of drugs or alcohol. Faculty members are re- prescription medications, students with a valid autho- quired by the school to report infractions of drug and rization to use medical marijuana must abide by the alcohol policies to the dean on duty and, therefore, following rules: cannot declare sanctuary for a student. Final determi- nation as to whether a specific case has met the crite- • Students may only use medical marijuana in their ria for sanctuary will rest with the school, which may homes or in a medical treatment facility that consult with appropriate medical professionals. If a permits such use; students may not use or possess student is already involved in the disciplinary process medical marijuana, be under the influence of because of alcohol or substance abuse, the Sanctuary medical marijuana, or possess any related para- Policy may not be invoked. phernalia while on the school campus or while at- tending any school-afliated or school-sponsored Students who misuse this emergency protocol to events, whether on or of campus. avoid normal disciplinary action for drug or alcohol • Students may not operate, navigate, or be in phys- abuse will be referred to the Dean’s Ofce. ical control of any motor vehicle or operate any other motorized equipment while under the influ- Following treatment for an alcohol or drug crisis, the ence of medical marijuana. student must have an independent assessment within If, in the school’s judgment, a student is impaired two weeks of returning to school. This may be done due to the influence of medical marijuana while at in the Easthampton area or in the student’s home

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!25 community. The professional staf conducting the as- Weapons sessment are required, with parental notification and Possession or use of fireworks (including firecrack- consent, to complete an assessment of the student’s ers), a firearm, a pellet gun, a knife, or any other alcohol or drug use, make recommendations, and dangerous weapon is prohibited. Any knife other than discuss those recommendations with the director of a penknife may be considered a dangerous weapon. counseling services or Health and Wellness Services. Switchblades and double-edged knives and fireworks are illegal in Massachusetts. Propelling any projectile Any recommendations coming out of the consultation at a motor vehicle, an unwilling or unsuspecting between the independent substance abuse evaluator person, or a building, so as to endanger another, is and director of counseling services must be followed considered reckless behavior and is prohibited by the by the student. Failure to do so may negatively afect school. the student’s status at the school. Students referred to Health and Wellness Services for a second time for PROPERTY DAMAGE alcohol or drug use will generally be reviewed by the Willfully damaging the property of another person Dean’s Ofce for a disciplinary response and/or and or of the school is prohibited. The responsibility for medical leave. property damage is placed on the student, and the policy is as follows: SAFETY VIOLATIONS/WEAPONS ON • Damage to anything in a student room will be the CAMPUS responsibility of the occupant(s) unless the occu- Safety Violations pant can identify the person responsible. The unauthorized burning of any substance and/or • Damage to common rooms, stairwells, or other igniting of an object, including a match, tobacco, can- areas that are not specifically assignable to a floor dles, and incense, as well as the use of any electronic will be charged to all residents of the dormitory. smoking device, in any school building is prohibited. • Damage to property on a specific floor will be This activity presents an extreme risk to both oc- charged to all residents living on the floor. cupants and buildings. Tampering with any alarm, • When the damage to property other than a room sprinkler system, smoke detector, or fire extinguisher cannot be specifically attributed to an individual, is prohibited. Should any fire extinguisher in a dor- the floor or dormitory will receive a notice of the mitory be emptied needlessly and the person doing so charge. not be identified, each resident of that dormitory will be assessed a minimum fine of $20.00. In addition, SEARCH AND SEIZURE entering or exiting a building through a window is The school may conduct a search of a student that is prohibited. Window screens are a safety measure and reasonable in scope, and/or a search of the student’s should not be removed by students. It is the student’s belongings, including personal items, such as bags responsibility to immediately report any malfunction- and backpacks, personal electronic devices, and ing or missing window screen to their dorm head. other efects, if the school suspects a student may be Students who remove or damage window screens will violating the law or violating a school rule or code of be billed for the damage and may also receive a disci- conduct. Lockers and dorm rooms are the property plinary response. of the school. Students exercise control over their lockers and dorm rooms from other students, but not

26 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook from the school and its ofcials. As a result, the head and sophomores will park in an authorized area to of school and the head’s designees, as well as law be determined. Students may not drive on or park in enforcement ofcials, have the right to search lockers the Main Street campus area or park in the quad at and dorm rooms to ensure school safety and students’ any time. Violations of these rules may result in disci- welfare, including, without limitation, to determine plinary action and the loss of driving privileges. if students are harboring stolen property, weapons, or illegal or dangerous substances. The school and law Any students wishing to ride in or drive a motor enforcement ofcials have the right to seize items vehicle must first secure permission from the Dean’s that may jeopardize the safety of others or property, Ofce or the dean on duty. In addition, boarding or constitute a health hazard. The school may con- students may ride in a day student’s car only in accor- duct random searches of lockers and dorm rooms dance with authorization provided by their parents throughout the year. and the deans.

Parking on school premises is a privilege, not a right. Students must comply with all laws, rules, and As such, any person who operates a vehicle on school regulations of the Massachusetts Department of property or in connection with any school-related Transportation. activity is agreeing that the school may inspect and search the vehicle and its contents without notice JOBS and without further consent. The nature of the school’s college preparatory pro- gram makes it difcult for a student to devote ade- DRIVING PRIVILEGES/OFF-CAMPUS quate time to school while holding a job. Students PRIVILEGES who are considering taking a job should discuss those Boarding students may not have, use, or have access plans with their parents and advisor. Students who to a motor vehicle while at school. Permission for have jobs should understand that commitment to exceptions to this policy must be discussed with and school comes first and going to a job is not an ex- approved by the dean of students well in advance of cuse for missing class or other school commitments. its occurrence. Boarding students coming to campus Requests for work permits during summer recess with or using a motor vehicle without the school’s should be directed to the coordinator of student ser- permission should expect to be disciplined. vices.

Day students who drive a car to school must register GAMBLING the car with the security ofce and obtain a parking The school prohibits gambling of any kind, includ- decal, which should be displayed on the back window ing gambling over the Internet (as referenced in the of their vehicle. Cars may not be moved during the school’s AUP). school day until the student leaves to go home for the night. Any exceptions to this policy must receive per- mission from the Dean’s Ofce or the dean on duty. Cars must be parked in the assigned areas, as follows: seniors park in the area behind Scott Hall; juniors

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!27 POLICIES AND EXPECTATIONS FOR INTERPERSONAL STUDENT RELATIONSHIPS

COMMITMENT TO RESPECTFUL AND sors, and the school’s Health And Wellness Services HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS staf with any questions or concerns regarding these The school is committed to providing a safe and policies. The school believes that open communica- healthy learning environment for all members of its tion about these sensitive topics is integral to prevent- community. Such an environment precludes behav- ing serious misconduct from occurring and essential iors that are disrespectful of, and physically and/or to fostering a culture of personal responsibility, mutu- emotionally harmful to, others. All members of the al accountability, and positive peer leadership. school community play important roles in maintain- ing these standards and intervening, as appropriate, SEXUAL INTIMACY AND CONSENT when they witness or otherwise become aware of be- The school recognizes that sexuality is a normal part havior that conflicts with community standards. of human nature, and its discovery is often a part of adolescence. However, any level of sexual inti- Awareness and acceptance of individual identity are macy can bring with it physical, psychological, and central tenets of the school. The school expects all emotional challenges that can be overwhelming to members of the school community to treat others students. Moreover, in a residential community such with civility, respect, and dignity and to interact as the school’s, there are special considerations that (whether in person or electronically) politely and students must respect: the campus is shared space, appropriately. Before acting, students should give and all members of the community have the right to careful consideration to how their communications— be free of unwanted exposure to the intimate, sexual whether through words, appearances, actions, or oth- behaviors of others. Therefore, the school does not erwise—may negatively impact others. All students, endorse or condone sexually intimate activity among including day and boarding, are valued members of students and advocates postponing sexual intimacy the school’s residential community, which presents until students are past adolescence. unique opportunities to develop lasting partner- ships with peers, faculty and staf. The school strives Students who would like to talk about the meaning to help students develop such close connections. of sexual intimacy in a relationship, or who engage in However, the school expects these relationships to be sexually intimate activity and then want to report or appropriate and healthy. The school endeavors to pro- discuss the situation, are encouraged to reach out to mote this through education and intervention. a trusted adult or the school’s Health And Wellness Services staf so that appropriate support may be With these goals and interests in mind, as well as provided. the legal requirements of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, the school has established policies to If students are found to have engaged in sexually inti- help students manage these interpersonal relation- mate activity, or in a situation that suggests they have ships safely and appropriately. Students and parents/ been sexually intimate, the school will generally first guardians are encouraged to communicate with the respond to the situation as a health issue. This may head of school, dean of students, dorm parents, advi- include notification to parents/guardians and, as ap-

28 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook propriate, referral to Health And Wellness Services. It • An ongoing verbal interaction, taken one step at a is imperative that students understand and appreciate time, to an expressed and honest yes. that certain sexual activity may violate the law and, • Asking permission to engage in specific activity therefore, is prohibited by the school. Further, under and to progress to new, diferent, or more inti- certain circumstances, the school may be obligated mate activity—regardless of who initiated the to report to government authorities (including the contact. Department of Children and Families [“DCF”] and • Being clear about desires and expectations. the local police). • A clear “yes.” The absence of “no” should not be understood to mean that there is consent. Following Massachusetts law, the school prohibits • Remaining open to and respecting another’s ex- students from engaging in nonconsensual sexual ac- pression of disagreement to engage in a particular tivity, considering it to be egregious misconduct and activity. “No” means “no” in any sexual encounter. a major disciplinary violation. Consent must be the The school will generally consider it a disciplinary basis for every sexually intimate encounter. Consent ofense for students under the age of 16 to engage in means the voluntary, positive agreement to engage sexual intercourse. The school may also consider it in specific sexual activity. However, certain circum- a dismissible ofense for a student age 16 or over to stances may make it impossible for a person to legally engage in sexual intercourse with an individual under give consent. the age of 16. Furthermore, when sexually intimate • By law in Massachusetts, there can be no consent activity is accompanied by violations of other school to sexual intercourse, oral sex, or any penetrative rules (such as parietal rules, curfew, or abuse of tech- act if the individual is under the age of 16. nology), the school may respond with disciplinary • By law in Massachusetts, there can be no consent action. to intentionally touching the buttocks, breasts, or genitals of an individual under the age of 14. The school prohibits and may be obligated to report • Consent cannot be obtained from someone who sexual activity that violates the law, including rape, is asleep or otherwise mentally or physically inca- sexual assault, and statutory rape. Sexual activity, of pacitated (whether due to drugs, alcohol, or some any and all kinds, is prohibited between any student other condition). or applicant and any school employee. • Consent cannot be obtained by threat, coercion, or force. In other words, if threat, coercion, or SANCTUARY POLICY APPLICABLE TO force is used, any agreement does not constitute SEXUAL ASSAULT consent. Student health and safety are more important than • Consent is ongoing and may be withdrawn at any discipline. Therefore, a student should not refrain stage during an encounter. from seeking help for fear of discipline by the school. • Consenting to one behavior does not obligate a If a student is violating a school rule when the stu- person to consent to any other behavior. dent needs to call for help due to a sexual assault, the • Consenting on one occasion does not obligate a student will generally be granted sanctuary from dis- person to consent on any other occasion. cipline for the rule violation (unless, for instance, the • Communicating consent means: student perpetrated the sexual assault). • The person is legally capable of giving consent. We reiterate that we expect students to promptly

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!29 report to a school employee any incident where the students to share potential incidents with a trusted health or safety of a student may be at risk. Please see staf member (as discussed in more detail below) if the school’s Sanctuary Policy for more details (see the school may need to have a heightened awareness page 25). of protecting students’ safety while at school.

INTERPERSONAL MISCONDUCT DEFINITIONS The school does not tolerate verbal or physical behav- Aggressor. A student or faculty/staf member who en- ior that constitutes bullying (including cyber-bully- gages in bullying (including cyber-bullying), harass- ing), harassment or discrimination, hazing, sexual as- ment, discrimination, hazing, sexual assault, sexual sault, and sexual harassment. The school is dedicated harassment, or retaliation towards another person. to preventing interpersonal misconduct by fostering a positive school culture and providing a curriculum Bullying. Bullying is defined as the use of a written, that encourages social skills development. We work verbal, or electronic expression or a physical act or to enhance students’ abilities to develop healthy gesture, or any combination thereof, by one or more relationships and to take positive action when they students or members of the faculty/staf directed at witness or experience any form of interpersonal mis- a target that: (a) causes physical or emotional harm conduct. The school is also committed to promptly to the student or damage to the student’s property; addressing any behavior that impedes the learning of (b) places the student in reasonable fear of harm to any student or interferes with the experience of any the student’s self or damage to the student’s property; other member of the school community. (c) creates a hostile environment at school for the student; (d) infringes on the rights of the student at Interpersonal misconduct is prohibited on the school; or (e) materially and substantially disrupts school’s campus and the property immediately ad- the educational process or the orderly operations of jacent to school grounds, on school vehicles and at the school. school-sponsored events, activities, athletic contests, and of-campus trips. School-owned technology may The school recognizes that certain students may be not be used to intimidate, harass, threaten, or bully more vulnerable to becoming targets of bullying or another student. In addition, bullying, harassment, harassment based on actual or perceived diferenti- discrimination, hazing, sexual harassment, and sexual ating characteristics, including race; color; religion; assault are prohibited at a location, activity, function, ancestry; national origin; sex; socioeconomic status; or program that is not school-related, or through homelessness; academic status; gender identity or the use of technology or an electronic device that expression; physical appearance; pregnancy or par- is not owned, leased or used by the school, if such enting status; sexual orientation; mental, physical, conduct: (a) creates a hostile environment at school developmental, or sensory disability; or by association for a student, (b) infringes on the rights of a student with a person who has or is perceived to have one or at the school, or (c) substantially disrupts the edu- more of these characteristics. Please see the school’s cational process or the school’s orderly operations. Bullying Prevention and Intervention Plan for more Though interpersonal misconduct that occurs outside information, available on the school’s website. of the above locations may be outside of the school’s disciplinary reach, we still encourage families and Cyber-bullying. Cyber-bullying is bullying through

30 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook the use of technology or electronic communication certain characteristics, as well as slurs, jokes, state- including, but not limited to, any transfer of signs, ments, remarks, questions, gestures, pictures, emails, signals, writing, images, sounds, data, or intelligence texts, or cartoons regarding a legally protected status of any nature transmitted in whole or in part by a that are derogatory or demeaning to an individual’s wire, radio, or electromagnetic, photo electronic, or group’s characteristics or that promote stereotypes. or photo optical system (including, but not limit- Harassment also includes sexual harassment (as de- ed to, electronic mail, internet communications, fined below). instant messages, or facsimile communications). Cyber-bullying includes, but is not limited to: (a) the Hazing. Hazing means subjecting a student to a phys- creation of a web page or blog in which the creator ical or mental health injury as part of an initiation, or assumes the identity of another person, and (b) the as a prerequisite to membership, into any organized knowing impersonation of another person as the school group, including any society, athletic team, fra- author of posted content or messages, if the creation ternity or sorority, or other similar group. Prohibited or impersonation constitutes bullying conduct as conduct includes, but is not limited to, whipping, defined above. Cyber-bullying includes, but is not beating, branding, forced calisthenics, exposure to limited to the distribution by electronic means of a the weather, forced consumption of any food, liquor, communication to more than one person, or the post- beverage, drug, or other substance, or any brutal ing of material on an electronic medium that may be treatment or forced physical activity which is likely to accessed by one or more persons, if the distribution adversely afect the physical or mental health or safe- or posting creates any of the conditions included in ty of a student or any other person, or which subjects the definition of bullying. the student or any other person to extreme mental stress, including extended deprivation of sleep or rest Faculty/Staf. Faculty/staf members include, but are or extended isolation. Please see Appendix A (page not limited to, educators, administrators, counselors, 86) for a more detailed review of Massachusetts law school nurses, dining services workers, custodians, defining and prohibiting hazing. bus drivers, athletic coaches, advisors to extracurricu- lar activities, support staf, and paraprofessionals. Although Massachusetts State Law covers the treat- ment and definition of hazing for secondary school Harassment or Discrimination. Harassment or dis- students, the School does not condone any form of crimination is behavior that is pervasive or severe and hazing, whether consent is implied or given, or any has the purpose or efect of: (a) creating an intimidat- other circumstances whatsoever, regardless of the ing, hostile, or ofensive environment, (b) interfering grade level of the student. The following questions unreasonably with a student’s academic performance, are intended to help students identify and understand or (c) creating a situation where academic decisions what hazing is: of a student depend on the student submitting to and/ • Would you have any reservation describing the or not objecting to the behavior. activity to your parents, a teacher, or a school ad- ministrator? Harassment and discrimination can take many forms. • Would you object to the activity being photo- Examples include limiting opportunities to partic- graphed for the school newspaper or local televi- ipate in certain clubs, teams, or activities based on sion news?

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!31 • Is there a risk of injury or a question of safety? uncomfortable, include: (a) ofensive body language • Is this a team or group activity in which members (staring and/or leering at a person’s body or standing/ are encouraged or expected to attend and where brushing too close), (b) ofensive or unwanted sexual minors are consuming alcohol? comments, abuse, jokes, insults, delivered verbally or • Will current members refuse to participate with in writing, (c) derogatory or pornographic posters, the new members? cartoons, or drawings, (d) pressure for sexual activity • Does the activity risk emotional or physical abuse? (such as hazing or threats, as well as repeated re- Hostile Environment. A hostile environment refers quests after rejections), (e) ofering favors or benefits to a situation in which certain misconduct causes the in exchange for sexual acts, or threatening mistreat- school environment to be permeated with intimida- ment if one does not engage in sexual acts, and (f) tion, ridicule, or insult that is sufciently severe or ofensive or unwelcome physical advances (including pervasive so as to alter the conditions of a student’s kissing, hugging, pinching, grabbing, groping, “play- education. ful” slapping, etc.).

Retaliation. Retaliation is any form of intimidation, Target. Any student against whom bullying, harass- reprisal, or harassment directed against a student ment, discrimination, hazing, sexual assault, or sexu- who reports misconduct (including, but not limited al harassment has been perpetrated. to, bullying, harassment, discrimination, hazing, sex- ual assault, or sexual harassment), provides informa- LEGAL DEFINITIONS AND SCHOOL tion during an investigation, or witnesses and/or has POLICIES reliable information about such misconduct. In accordance with the school’s mission, values, and standards of conduct, the school has supplemented Sexual Assault. Sexual assault occurs when a per- and/or provided broader protections against bullying, son is forced or coerced into sexual activity without discrimination, harassment, and other inappropriate giving consent. Sexual activity includes, but is not conduct than may be required under applicable laws. limited to, touching or fondling, either directly or In essence, the school’s standards may be stricter than through the clothing, of another’s intimate areas or the law and the school may impose discipline accord- any contact, intrusion or penetration of another’s sex ingly. For example, although the law defines “bully- organs, anus, or mouth. ing” as the “repeated use” of certain expressions, acts, and/or gestures, under the school’s policies, a “single Sexual Harassment. Sexual harassment is a type of instance” may be sufcient to rise to the level of bul- harassment (as defined above). Sexual harassment lying and, therefore, warrant disciplinary action or includes unwilling and unwanted sexual attention, re- other corrective measures. The school’s eforts to en- gardless of gender, from anyone with whom a person hance its protection of students in no way expand an may interact in the course of attending the school or individual’s rights under the law, and other applicable being present at school-sponsored activities. laws may supersede this policy. Further, the school may modify and amplify the standards set forth above Examples of behavior that may constitute sexual and use its discretion in the interpretative enforce- harassment, regardless of whether the intent or con- ment of all ideals and standards of conduct. sequence of such behavior is to make the target feel

32 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook REPORTING COMPLAINTS not to make anonymous reports. Although there are A student who is the target of interpersonal miscon- circumstances in which an anonymous report can duct, or who has witnessed such an incident or any be better than none at all, it is far more difcult to incident of retaliation, or who otherwise has relevant determine the facts of what occurred if complaints information about conduct prohibited by the school, are made anonymously, and disciplinary action will is expected to report the matter promptly (either generally not be taken against an individual solely on orally or in writing) to the head of school, dean of stu- the basis of an anonymous report. dents, or any other administrator or faculty member with whom the student is comfortable speaking. If a The school cannot promise absolute confidentiality to student is uncomfortable contacting one of these indi- those reporting bullying, harassment, discrimination, viduals, the student may ask an advisor, another adult, hazing, sexual assault, or sexual harassment, as there or a classmate to help. Oral reports made to a member may be a need to share information during an investi- of the faculty/staf will generally be memorialized in gation or otherwise; however, the school will disclose writing. A school staf member is required to report such information with discretion, on a need-to-know immediately to the head of school, dean of students, basis. or school counselor any instance of bullying or retalia- tion the staf member comes aware of or witnesses. FALSE COMPLAINTS All persons involved in a complaint or investiga- With respect to reporting sexual assault in particular, tion should understand that false or exaggerated students are strongly urged to speak to a trusted adult accusations can be extremely damaging to innocent on campus or at home, to a member of the Health persons; therefore, the school expects and requires and Wellness Services staf or to local resources. the honest and full disclosure of facts by all involved. When making such outreach, students may share as Any person who knowingly makes a false accusation little or as much information as they would like. of interpersonal misconduct may be subject to disci- plinary action. Parents/guardians of a student who is the target of bullying, harassment, discrimination, hazing, sexual RESPONDING TO COMPLAINTS assault, or sexual harassment, or of a student who The goals of an investigation, and any disciplinary or has witnessed or otherwise has relevant informa- other remedial process that is imposed following that tion about such conduct, are urged to immediately investigation, are to correct the situation to the ex- notify the dean of students (or the director of the tent reasonably possible and to take steps to prevent Middle School, for students in the Middle School). repetition of the incident and retaliation. Furthermore, any parent/guardian who has witnessed bullying, discrimination, hazing, sexual assault or sex- When a complaint is brought to the attention of the ual harassment, or has relevant information concern- head of school (or the head’s designee), an assess- ing such an incident or any incident of retaliation, is ment is made to determine the initial steps appropri- strongly encouraged to contact one of these adminis- ate to protect the well-being of the students involved trators immediately. (including both the alleged targets and aggressors) and to prevent disruption of the learning environ- The school expects students and parents/guardians ment while the investigation is undertaken. The

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!33 school may use strategies, such as increased supervi- • Whether counseling, or a referral to appropriate sion, stay-away mandates, and personal safety plans, services, should be ofered to targets, aggressors, or as may be appropriate to prevent bullying, witness family members of the afected students or targets. interference, and/or retaliation during the course of At the discretion of the head of school, the Discipline and after the investigation. Committee may be convened to investigate and make recommendations. The head of school (or the head’s The head of school (or the head’s designee) will con- designee) will consider any recommendations from duct an impartial, fact-finding investigation of the the Discipline Committee if it convenes, but the head complaint. This investigation may include (but is of school (or the head’s designee) will determine any not necessarily limited to) interviews with the com- appropriate disciplinary action for a student who is plainant, alleged target(s), alleged aggressor(s), and found to have committed an incident of bullying, ha- any other witnesses or parties who have information rassment, discrimination, hazing, sexual assault, sexu- relevant to the alleged incident. The school may con- al harassment, or retaliation. The range of disciplinary sult with faculty, Health And Wellness Services staf, actions will balance the need for accountability with the parents/guardians of the alleged target(s), and/or the goal of teaching appropriate behavior, and may the alleged aggressor(s), or any other person deemed result in disciplinary notice, probation, mandatory to have knowledge about the complaint or any cir- counseling, suspension, dismissal and/or any disci- cumstances surrounding it. plinary action deemed appropriate by the school.

The school neither tolerates nor engages in retaliation Information about consequences or other corrective against an individual for filing a complaint about in- action will be shared with the school community terpersonal misconduct or for cooperating in an inves- as deemed appropriate by the head of school. Such tigation of such a complaint. The school will not take announcement may be made in person, by electronic adverse action against a student for making a good communication or otherwise. Resources such as coun- faith report of interpersonal misconduct. An individu- seling or referral to appropriate services are available al who is found to have engaged in retaliation against to all students—including the alleged aggressor(s) a student for filing a complaint, or for participating and the alleged target(s)—during and after an inves- in the investigation of a complaint, may be subject to tigation. disciplinary action. NOTIFICATION TO PARENTS/ Upon completion of the investigation, the head of GUARDIANS school (or the head’s designee) will generally make The school will generally notify the parents/guardians the following determinations: of the alleged target(s) and the alleged aggressor(s) • Whether and to what extent the allegation of bul- promptly after a complaint has been filed, upon com- lying, harassment, discrimination, hazing, sexual pletion of the investigation and to report the results assault or sexual harassment has been substanti- of the investigation. Parents/guardians of the target(s) ated. will generally also be notified of any action to be • Whether any disciplinary action and/or other re- taken to prevent further acts of bullying, harassment, medial action is appropriate and, if so, how it will discrimination, hazing, sexual assault, sexual harass- be implemented. ment, or retaliation.

34 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook In all situations, the amount of information shared The following procedure is established to ensure by the school may be limited by confidentiality laws that reports are made in a timely and efective man- protecting student and employee records, other confi- ner, and that information about students and their dentiality or privacy considerations, and/or concerns families is treated respectfully. We ask that families regarding the integrity of the investigatory processes. understand that the school and its employees are sometimes required to make a report to DCF, and we ask that families support our decisions to do so. Notification To Government Authorities In appropriate circumstances, such as when a If a school employee learns of a situation of possible crime may have been committed or a child may abuse or neglect, the employee is expected to consult have been subjected to abuse or neglect of the type with the head of school (or the dean of students) that is reportable under M.G.L. c. 119, § 51A, law about the situation, so that appropriate action can be enforcement or other appropriate government agen- taken to protect the student and timely reports can cies may be notified. At any point after receiving a be made to DCF. The head of school (or the dean of report of misconduct, including but not limited to students) will review the situation and, in the head bullying, harassment, discrimination, hazing, sexual of school’s discretion, may consult with the school’s assault, or sexual harassment, the school may notify health care providers, the student’s family, legal coun- local law enforcement or other government agen- sel, and/or a consultant specializing in the care and cies. If the school receives a complaint involving protection of children, as may be appropriate. If the students from another school, the school may notify abuse or neglect is suspected to come from the stu- the appropriate administrator of the other school so dent’s family, the school will identify an approach to that both may take appropriate action. help protect the student. In all instances, the school will protect the confidentiality of the student and the student’s family to the extent appropriate. CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT REPORTING If the school determines that a report should be made The school is committed to the highest standards of to DCF, the head of school (or the dean of students) care for its students, which includes protecting stu- will generally make the first report to DCF by tele- dents from inappropriate or hurtful actions by adults phone call. As required by law, a written report will responsible for their care. follow within forty-eight hours after making the oral report. In accordance with Massachusetts law, the school’s employees (including, but not limited to, its faculty, However, anyone who has a reasonable belief that staf, school administrators, counselors, etc.) are re- a student is being abused or neglected may (and quired to report to the Department of Children and should) make a report to DCF at any time. In addi- Families suspected abuse or neglect of children under tion, in the event that it is not clear whether conduct the age of eighteen. This duty is triggered when there reaches a level of reportable abuse or neglect or there is reasonable cause to believe that a child is sufering is a disagreement about the decision to report, any from abuse or neglect. The responsibility to report school employee who believes that the incident rises rests both on the school and on school employees. to the threshold for making a report is expected to

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!35 make the report to DCF. Once again, the responsibil- on school employees and the school. ity to report suspicions of abuse or neglect rests both

DAILY LIFE AT SCHOOL

Daily life at school should promote Williston’s core • maintain efective communication with the values: respect for self and others, responsibility and student’s family trust, and honesty and integrity. The school seeks to • participate in discipline and the academic pro- build, support, and unify our community by provid- bation process, and in necessary follow up ing enriching experiences, by providing programs • review teacher’s interim comments and grades that educate our community about critical issues, with advisees and by building a common vocabulary and mission. • Participate in course planning for the following We recognize that nonjudgmental, open, and honest academic year dialogue is vital to maintaining a healthy and vibrant • help resolve any roommate conflicts and facili- community. We value a student-centered approach tate changes that helps develop leadership and global citizenship • refer advisees to other school ofces for assis- through the creation of events and experiences by tance with problems of a specialized nature students for the Williston community. The school • provide a summary of the advisee’s activities strives to include a rich variety of voices and seek during prize meetings input from students, faculty, staf, alumni, families, • monitor advisee’s overall program to avoid over and guests. commitment in nonacademic activities and to support the student’s academic and social ADVISING progress A strong and active advising program helps to ensure • The advisor serves as the clearinghouse, keep- that students have at least one adult who knows ing track of how the student is doing across them well and is invested in their happiness and the board in all classes and extra-curricular success at the school. Our program provides support activities. for students, parents, teachers, and administrators In addition to individual faculty advisors, many other while promoting school spirit and helping students adults serve in an advisory capacity, including: the build positive relationships on campus. Advisors play dean of students, Health and Wellness Services staf, many roles in students’ lives and are often a coach, the assistant head of school, the academic dean, the cheerleader, disciplinarian, motivator, mirror, guiding director of college counseling, and the director of in- hand, listener, organizer, questioner, fan, and friend. ternational student programs. Advisors have three main constituencies: (1) indi- vidual advisees, (2) advisee families, and (3) larger Williston’s CORE Program advisor groups. Williston’s CORE Program is a scafolded, four-year life and leadership curriculum that engages students Much of the work of advisors is informal, but the for- with relevant, developmentally-appropriate learning mal duties of advisors include the following: about themselves and others. Focusing on unique

36 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook themes for each class each year, students learn skills attend a special overnight orientation to help the that build organization, self-awareness, character, de- class connect and form its identity. During the first cision-making, responsibility, and leadership through and second trimester, students attend a weekly class class assemblies, discussions in advisories, dedicated that continues the CORE. training, ofering strategies classroom sessions, and all-school discussions. A cor- for managing stress, creating healthy relationships, nerstone of our residential life program, the CORE and getting enough sleep, among other topics. program helps all our students live healthier lives, filled with purpose, passion and integrity. Throughout the year, the CORE. Program advising team and ninth grade teachers meet monthly to work • Ninth Grade: Be Curious on strategies to help those students who need addi- Develop a deeper understanding of who you tional support. The program coordinators work with are as a person, student, and adolescent. students’ advisors, teachers, and the academic dean to support those students and help them improve their • Tenth Grade: Look Outward academic work in order to encourage them to achieve Consider your identity in the context of your com- their potential. munity and world and learn how to make smart decisions. Director of International Student Programs The director is responsible for our international stu- • Eleventh Grade: Embrace Responsibility dent population by ofering support and resources Find your voice, develop leadership skills, and to help these students acclimate to Williston and begin to take ownership of your future with the thrive within our community. Starting with new in- college process. ternational student orientation and including a first trimester mentoring program, creative programming • Twelfth Grade: Engage and Lead is ofered over the course of the year with a goal of Be leaders in the community and actively develop intentionally planning events to enhance everyone’s the legacy you will establish at Williston and take knowledge of the many cultures within our school. with you into the world. The director also lends support to international par- ents and families while their students are enrolled. CORE for Ninth Graders Of special note is the CORE curriculum for Ninth Class Deans Graders, which introduces all students to the four- Each class is led by a class dean who is responsible year program at Williston. The curriculum supports for facilitating class meetings, activities, dinners, and students’ academic work through workshops, regular other events for each class. meetings, and communication among teachers, ad- visors, and the program’s coordinators. The coordi- 2018-19 Class Deans nators of the CORE Program also serve as liaisons to • Class of 2019: Christa Talbot Syfu ’98 families of ninth graders. • Class of 2020: Kate Garrity • Class of 2021: Erin Davey During the first week of school, ninth grade students • Class of 2022: Matt Sawyer

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!37 SCHOOL DAY SCHEDULE include instructions for pick-up and other pertinent The first academic block begins at 8:30 a.m.; information. class meeting times vary throughout the day. On Wednesdays and class Saturdays (Upper School only), SCHOOL MEETINGS AND ASSEMBLIES classes are held in the morning and students partici- Upper School and Middle School assemblies are held pate in athletic contests and afternoon programming frequently. The Upper School assemblies are held in in the afternoon. For more details on the school day the Phillips Stevens Chapel and seating is by adviso- schedule, see page 92. ries. Middle School assemblies are held in the Middle School. In addition, on several occasions during the RELIGIOUS SERVICES AND HOLIDAYS year, the entire school meets for all-school assemblies Churches and synagogues are located in Easthampton in the Phillips Stevens Chapel. Assemblies present and nearby towns, and information about them is opportunities for student and/or adult performances available through the Dean’s Ofce. With parental and to disseminate information about upcoming permission, students may be excused from school on events and activities. From time to time, the school religious holidays, but this should be arranged in ad- also hosts visiting speakers and performers. Every vance with the Dean’s Ofce. student is expected to arrive at assembly promptly and to exemplify mature, supportive, and appropriate DAY STUDENTS audience behavior throughout the lecture or perfor- Day students participate in all aspects of the reg- mance. Food and drink are not allowed in the Chapel ular school program, including athletics and the and students and faculty should silence their phones Afternoon Program, and may take part in weekend upon entering the Chapel and refrain from using activities as well. Day students must observe school them until leaving the Chapel. regulations when on campus and while attending of-campus school functions. They should be aware VAN POOL INFORMATION that student behavior anywhere, whether on or Van Pool ridership is an option for day students. A de- of campus, is subject to review. Day and boarding scription of the service and fees is distributed by the students are subject to the same expectations and Business Ofce in July. consequences for their behavior. Required attendance at Saturday Night Consequence, which is held every RIDE-HAILING SERVICES ON CAMPUS Saturday evening from 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. in the Parents should be aware that many ride-hailing Middle School (Whitaker-Bement), is the disciplinary companies, such as Uber, have policies that prohibit response for multiple decorum and attendance units transporting unaccompanied minors. The school pro- (see page 68) and minor school ofenses for both hibits students from these ride-hailing services . boarding and day students. Day students are expected to attend on the date assigned. STUDENT LOCKERS Day students are assigned lockers in the Reed EARLY DISMISSAL Campus Center for use during the school year. In If weather or another situation occurs that merits an addition, lockers in the Athletic Center are available early dismissal from school, parents will be notified on a trimester/seasonal basis. All student storage by an alert from the school in a text message. It will areas and lockers are the property of the school and

38 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook are subject to search and inspection. Students should dinners, and other special community events are lock their lockers and a student should never open held that require students to attend in formal dress. another student’s locker. Lockers should be kept clean In addition, during Family Weekend, Convocation, and organized. Decorations must be in good taste, Grandparents’ Day, and other events, academic day as determined by school faculty or administrators in dress is required at all meals. Formal dress may be their sole discretion, and must be removed at the end required on other special occasions. of the school year. With the exception of bottled wa- ter, food should not be kept in lockers. The Birch Dining Commons is operated by Sage Dining Services and a weekly menu is available on DINING SERVICES the website (under Campus Life). In addition to The Birch Dining Commons, located in Ford Hall, scheduled meal times, the dining commons is open has many personal choices for dining. Attendance at continuously during the academic school day for use all bufet-style meals is strongly recommended, but as a study area during of-meal hours, when healthy is optional. Attire in the dining commons is either snacks are available. academic day dress during weekdays or casual at other times, but students may not wear hats, pajamas, Dining Services is aware of the concerns and seri- sleeveless shirts, athletic scrimmage vests, or other ousness of individuals with food allergies. Food items attire that does not conform to appropriate dress that contain nuts or nut products are clearly labeled. standards. Students coming from athletic practices Gluten-free items, lactose-free milk, and soymilk and contests are encouraged to shower and change are available at each mealtime. Any student, faculty, prior to dining. or staf member who has a specific food allergy or dietary concern should contact the director of dining On a number of occasions during the year, sit-down services at (413) 529-3235.

RESIDENTIAL LIFE AT SCHOOL

DORMITORY LIVING • mattress pad or cover Common courtesy and respect for the rights and • towels property of others are the fundamental tenets of • laundry bag, detergent, and quarters (laundry ser- community life. While there is consistency in guide- vice is also available through E&R, The Campus lines, rules, and expectations for all students living in Laundry, at www.eandrcleaners.com.) dormitories, there are times when dormitory parents • study lamp may make individual rules pertinent to their particu- • alarm clock (with battery back-up) lar dorm and the specific circumstances. • computer monitor (32” or less in size) • hair dryer What To Bring • razor • blankets • fan • pillow • small wastebasket • sheets (twin XL size) and pillowcases • clothes hangers

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!39 • cell phone (see below) containers (full or empty) and items with any drug or alcohol insignia are not allowed. Signs and stickers on doors should follow the same guidelines so that Note: Students must have a cell phone with a U.S. they do not damage the paint or finish. phone number and must keep their voicemail accessible for messages at all times. Students are Mattresses expected to respond immediately to texts and/or The school provides approved fire-retardant mat- phone calls from the dean on duty when school is in tresses. Students who wish to bring a mattress must session. submit proof to the director of the physical plant that it meets applicable standards. Mattresses and bed- springs are not to be used on the floor. What To Leave At Home Use of the following items is not allowed in the dor- Furnishings mitories for energy conservation and because of the The following basic room furnishings are provided danger of electrical overload and fire: by the school: bed, bureau, desk and straight chair, • refrigerator mirror, and curtains or shades. Only one piece of • television personal furniture, such as a chair, may be allowed • space heater per student in a room, subject to available space as • electric blanket determined by the director of the physical plant. The • halogen lamp maximum size of any piece of furniture in any one of • furniture that is not fire retardant its dimensions is four feet and students must provide • battery-powered hoverboards and drones proof of its fire-retardant nature.

ROOMS Appliances Dorm rooms, which are Williston property, may be Only the following electrical appliances are permitted inspected at any time. The rooms are to be kept clean in dormitory rooms: clocks, radios, stereos, personal and neat and will be inspected regularly by dormitory computers/tablets, hair dryers, razors, hair straighten- faculty and from time-to-time by the deans. ers, and fans. Smart/cell phones, used in accordance with school and dorm rules, are permitted. Only dor- Wall decorations may be hung from molding or at- mitory proctors are permitted to have a refrigerator. tached with DormTape® or Mounting Putty®, which Computer monitors are limited in size to 32 inches. does not mar the walls and can be obtained at the UL-approved, circuit breaker-protected power strips Campus Store. Wall hangings must be widely spaced, are the only “extension cords” allowed. meeting all fire code regulations, and none should ex- tend across the ceiling or outside of the room. Tacks, Music nails, screws, and tape may not be used on the walls, The use of headphones is required during quiet hours as they cause permanent damage. All decorations are and study hours, and encouraged at other times. to be appropriate in nature, as deemed to be so by the When allowed, music or other entertainment must be school in its sole discretion, as they may be viewed by kept at a volume that can be heard only within one’s the general public and families. Alcoholic beverage room.

40 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook Television been obtained from the Dean’s Ofce. If the original Common room and student center televisions may key is returned, the Business Ofce will refund $10. If not be used before 5:30 p.m. on weekday afternoons a room key is not returned at the end of the year, the and only after 12:30 p.m. on class Saturdays. On $20 charge is billed. weekdays, TV’s are turned of at 11:00 p.m.; on week- ends, TVs should be turned of at midnight. ROOM ASSIGNMENTS Living with others teaches important life lessons, Computer Use and Cell Phones such as how to compromise, to appreciate other per- Videos, movies, and console or computer gaming spectives, and to engage and share in conversation. are not permitted after the final check in on school The associate dean of students, who oversees housing nights (10:30 or 11:00 p.m.) or after midnight on and makes dormitory assignments, collaborates with weekends. After the last check-ins of the night, the the Admission Ofce when assigning housing to new same rules apply to use of cell phones for communi- boarding students. Each spring, current students state cation. All gaming and media devices must be regis- their preferences for rooming in the next school year. tered with the Technology Department. Their choices are granted whenever possible, based on seniority and previous rooming history. Room Cleanliness and Damage assignments often are not definite until late August. Students are responsible for the cleanliness of their After the school year begins, every efort is made to rooms and will be assessed for damage to furnishings keep rooming assignments for the year and students or rooms. Desks are to be neat enough to provide should seek the counsel of dorm heads, proctors, and usable working space and viewable from the doorway the deans when there is disagreement or discontent. of the room. Floors are to be kept picked up and clear Following those conversations, if the situation con- of clothing and papers. A laundry bag should be used tinues to be unresolved, a room change request may so that dirty laundry is not left around the room. be made to the Dean’s Ofce and conversations will Any damage to the room should be reported to the follow with the student’s advisor, dormitory head, director of the physical plant to ensure that responsi- director of housing, and the dean of students before a bility is appropriately identified and damage repaired. move will be considered or approved. Cursory inspections by school personnel may occur at any time. Any room not properly cleaned out at the EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS end of the year is subject to a cleaning charge. All dormitories hold at least one fire and/or emer- gency drill each trimester, including one during the Pets first week of school. At the first sound of the alarm, Pets, including fish, are not permitted in any dormi- each person is to move quickly and quietly out of the tory room. building according to a predetermined plan of exit. Attendance is taken outside the building under the Room Keys/Key Cards supervision of the dormitory parent on duty. Fire Room keys and/or key cards are issued at registration drills are of obvious importance and will be conduct- and a charge of $20 will be assessed for a lost key/ ed more frequently if they have not been executed to card. A replacement key/card may be purchased at the satisfaction of school authorities. Drills to prepare the Business Ofce after a lost key/card form has for an emergency situation will also be held. Students

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!41 will receive instruction on how to prepare for such GUESTS situations and the precautions that they should take. The school has absolute discretion in permitting guests for overnight visits. Only with permission from DORM VISITATIONS the Dean’s Ofce may day students stay overnight on While the school recognizes that some students may weekend nights, for a fee that includes dinner and not identify as heterosexual, our current housing breakfast. As a general rule, day students may not stay structure operates under a binary system of boys’ overnight in the dorms during the academic week. dorms and girls’ dorms. The school has created rules Day students must be familiar with and abide by the that govern dorm room visits based on its current same rules that govern boarding students and a bed binary dorm structure. These rules apply to both must be available for them. day and boarding students. Room visits are allowed during specified hours and after both students check During the academic week, day students may not in personally with a dorm parent who will be present spend a night at the school without making prior and available in the dormitory during the entire visit. arrangements to do so; such arrangements must be The expectation is that all students, including those made at the Dean’s Ofce at least one day in advance. involved in non-heterosexual relationships, will ad- There is a fee of $50 per night. If the day student is here to our room visiting policies. staying for a school-sponsored activity (such as late play rehearsals or productions), there is no charge. As a general rule, only the residents of a dormitory are Individuals who are no longer enrolled at the school allowed in their dorm rooms during the academic day. are not permitted to stay overnight in a dormitory. A visitor of the same gender as a dorm resident may be a guest in the common room during the academic HOURS day until 7:50 p.m. After the academic day, guests School Nights of the opposite gender of a dorm resident may visit On school nights there is an evening study period in a dormitory common room only when a faculty from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. All students must be in their member is present and is willing to supervise the visi- rooms during the evening study period, unless the tation. Generally, students are permitted to visit each student has permission from a dorm parent or advisor, other’s dormitory rooms during certain hours with in accordance with the sign-out policies, to use the the consent and supervision of the on-duty dormitory library, attend group study in a dorm common room, faculty. These hours are from 7 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. on use the art or photo studios, seek assistance in a sub- Saturdays and Green Fridays, and from 7:30 p.m. to ject-specific resource center, or work on a specific 7:50 p.m. (before study hall) on school nights. The faculty-directed extracurricular activity. In the interest dormitory faculty on duty will supervise. All guests of maintaining an appropriate environment, during must check in and out with them and must be invited study hall students may not use electronic devices to by the student-resident being visited. The dormitory communicate with others or for entertainment, such faculty on duty has the discretion to deny permission as using social media or playing computer games. for a visit. Doors will be open and lights will remain These measures have been put in place to focus stu- on during all visitations. In addition to a disciplinary dents on their daily preparations for their academic response, a loss of visitation privileges is a likely con- classes. Parents should also refrain from communicat- sequence for those violating these guidelines. ing with their child during study hall hours.

42 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook During the winter and spring terms, seniors on high evening study period check-in for boarding students honors are permitted privileges during the evening except in special circumstances, as authorized by study period. Seniors must notify the dorm parent on the Dean’s Ofce. If day students remain on campus duty before 8:00 p.m. on any evening that they intend after 8:00 p.m. on weeknights, they are expected to to exercise this privilege and must abide by all other observe all study hall guidelines. Day students must sign-out procedures. Senior privileges are granted obtain permission from the dorm parent on duty if after each trimester to qualified seniors according to they wish to study with a dorm resident in a common their GPA (92 average or above for high honors) and room. general citizenship. The privilege may be withdrawn by the Dean’s Ofce if there are concerns about a stu- The campus is closed to day students and visitors dent’s behavior, units, or misuse of the privilege. after the final check-in time for boarding students (10 p.m. on weeknights and 11 p.m. on Saturday nights All students must be in their dormitories by 10:00 and blue week Friday nights). Transportation for day p.m. and checked in for the night by the dorm par- students should be arranged accordingly. ent on duty. Respect for the quiet hours set aside for study and sleeping reflects the school’s concern for PERMISSION TO LEAVE CAMPUS students’ well-being and that of the community. On Williston is a seven-day school and all academic, nights before classes, underclass students must be athletic, extracurricular, and other responsibilities in their own rooms by 10:30 p.m. (juniors on high must be met before a student may receive permission honors may return to their rooms at 10:45 pm) and to leave the campus. Students assigned to Saturday all technology and phone use should cease; seniors Night Consequence for excessive units (missed com- and proctors have the privilege of visiting and using mitments or misbehavior) will not be granted permis- phones until 11 p.m. sion to go on an overnight or weekend visitation for that weekend. After checking in for the night, students may not leave the dormitory before 6 a.m. except in an emer- Boarding students who do not have any conflicting gency or with special permission. school obligations may request permission, via the REACH system, to leave campus for an overnight or Weekends weekend visitation (unless the weekend is “closed”). On weekend evenings when no classes are to be held Their request should include with whom and where the next day, all students have a 7 p.m. check-in and they will be staying. In addition, they will need to re- must be in their dormitories by 11 p.m. for late check- ceive an invitation by their host, parental permission, in. Missing a check-in time without permission may and dean’s approval. On closed weekends, all board- result in a disciplinary response. Students who antici- ing students are expected to remain on campus and pate that they will miss a check-in should immediate- participate in planned community events. The closed ly call the dean on duty at (413) 529-3911 and explain weekends are the first weekend of the school year the situation. (September 14–16) and last weekends of each trimes- ter (November 9–11, February 22–24, and May 24– Day Students 26). Students who wish to leave campus on a closed Generally, day students are to be of campus after the weekend must discuss the extenuating circumstances

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!43 with and get approval from the dean of students. than 7:30 p.m. on Sunday. Students should sign in immediately upon their return to campus. If a late Although there is no restriction on the number of return is necessary due to extenuating circumstanc- weekends away a student may request, students are es, the hosting adult must call the dean on duty as expected not to leave more than once or twice a early as possible to notify the dean of the situation. month in order to establish strong ties among the Unauthorized late returns may result in loss of future boarding community. weekend sign-out privileges.

OFF-CAMPUS TRAVEL AND Athletes with games on a green Saturday may not sign VISITATIONS out on Friday night except to be with their parents. When a parent extends an invitation to host a board- ing student, the school expects that the Current students may not sign out to visit the home parent will ensure that there is proper supervision of any student who has withdrawn, been separated, and that the parent will not permit the student to or has been dismissed from the school. Boarding stu- use alcohol or drugs. Parents are encouraged to com- dents staying at the school for athletic tournaments municate with each other to ensure that all student at the end of the academic term are expected to stay gatherings are supervised and substance free. More in the dorms overnight unless they have explicit per- information about these expectations is included in mission from the coach, the Dean’s Ofce, and their the Parents’ Role In Alcohol/Drug Prevention policy parents to do otherwise. (see page 24). Generally, students may not sign out for overnights Overnights and Weekends to colleges. An exception may occur when a student Any student wishing to leave campus for an overnight has a college visit approved by the student’s college must submit a leave request through REACH and counselor and the dean of students. The student’s par- have the hosting adult call the Dean’s Ofce. Students ent should contact the Dean’s Ofce to give explicit returning home for even one night need to use the permission and discuss the itinerary well in advance REACH system and receive parental and dean’s ap- of any planned visit. Students may not stay overnight proval before departing from campus. The Dean’s in hotels alone and must have an adult chaperone on Ofce may rescind any overnight or weekend request these trips. Students may not take weekends in the based on a student’s behavior or conduct. greater Easthampton area unless invited to the home of a Williston student. Parents who accept students Procedures for Leaving Campus on Weekend into their homes for overnight visits are assuring the Overnights school that the students will go to those homes and Students must use the REACH system and submit are under the direct supervision of those parents. a leave request by 10:50 a.m. on Thursday, and the Dean’s Ofce must receive the invitation from the Any student who is on leave for an overnight/week- host family by 2:00 p.m. on Friday. end but wishes to change locations must obtain per- mission from the student’s parents as well as the host Overnight or weekend leave ends as soon as the family and, if such permissions are granted, must student returns to campus, which should be no later notify the dean on duty as to the change in itinerary.

44 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook VACATIONS Note: The City of Easthampton’s post ofce has desig- All students must leave the school during the nated the location for student mail. Do not use “The breaks for Thanksgiving (dismissed at 11:00 a.m. on Williston Northampton School” or student’s dorm November 16 and return on November 26 by 7:30 name in the address. Mail or packages should be ad- p.m.), winter (dismissed at 1:00 p.m. on December dressed as follows: 14 and return on January 2 by 7:30 p.m.), and spring (dismissed at 11:00 a.m. on March 1 and return on Student Name March 18 by 7:30 p.m.). The school does not provide 40 Park Street # ___ housing or meals, nor does it assume responsibility (Fill in student’s box #) for students during these vacation periods. If a stu- Easthampton, MA 01027 dent isn’t returning home, families must make ar- rangements for students to be under the supervision Outgoing Mail of an adult during these breaks, and students may Outgoing mail leaves from the campus daily on week- not stay in hotels without adult chaperones during days only. these vacation breaks. However, the school does ofer faculty-led trips during some of these times subject to CHECK CASHING adequate student interest and registration. A student Students may cash personal checks up to a limit of must not return before the published arrival dates on $100 at the Business Ofce or the Campus Store. the calendar unless special arrangements have been Checks can be cashed during normal Business Ofce made through the Dean’s Ofce. Dormitories are hours (8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday; and locked and supervision is not available during vaca- 8:00 a.m. to noon on class Saturdays). In addition, tions and at the end of a term. International students students may wish to establish an account at one of needing to travel the day after a vacation begins may the banks with ofces in Easthampton, just a short stay the first night of the break if permission is ob- walk from the school; Easthampton Savings Bank, tained in advance from the Dean’s Ofce. www.bankesb.com; or Florence Savings Bank, www. florencesavings.com. Each term also has a long weekend: October 6-9; January 31-February 4; April 19–22 (beginning after TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS Saturday’s athletic commitments). Dorms will re- Prior to any long weekend or vacation break, students main open and students will be permitted to remain should complete travel forms specifying their travel in their own rooms. A daylong excursion to Boston, plans and needs for assistance. The coordinator of New York City, or another destination is available for student services oversees student transportation and students remaining on campus for the long weekend. is an appropriate contact for questions involving student transportation, as is the director of student CAMPUS MAILBOXES activities. The school will assist students in arranging Incoming Mail transportation to the bus, train, and airports. Bradley Mail is posted for all Upper School students in their International Airport (Hartford) is about 30 miles assigned campus boxes at the Reed Campus Center from the school; Logan International (Boston) is daily. about 100 miles; and John F. Kennedy International (New York/New Jersey) is about 150 miles. The

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!45 school supplies transportation to Springfield, Bradley, minors, and the school encourages parents to contact and Logan at a reduced cost and also arranges for the Dean’s Ofce as needed to arrange an escort. transportation with Archer Airport Limousine at (888) 491-2722 or (413) 593-5466. In the event of an emergency situation, the Dean’s Ofce will work with families to coordinate transpor- For those traveling by bus, Easthampton is served by tation arrangements. the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority (PVTA). PVTA bus service to and from Northampton, Amherst, and FOOD DELIVERIES Holyoke is available Monday through Saturday. These Students are allowed to order food from local estab- buses stop next to Big E’s market on Cottage Street. lishments and have it delivered to campus within Bus service to Springfield, Boston, and other distant specified times. On weekdays, food deliveries are points is provided by Peter Pan. These buses also stop allowed during the day up until 7:45 p.m. However, in nearby Northampton. Bus schedules are available food may not be delivered to campus during study at www.peterpanbus.com. hall hours, between 8:00 and 10:00 p.m. Food may be delivered between 10:00 and 10:30 p.m. on week- If students are planning to fly and are not yet 15 years nights. For these deliveries, students should place or- old, families should check with the airline regarding ders before 7:45 p.m. if they wish to use their Sammy any escort requirements for unaccompanied minors Card, or proctors may place orders for cash deliveries and notify the Dean’s Ofce at least two weeks prior only. On Saturday nights and green week Friday to the flight date if an escort will be needed. Other nights, food may be delivered to the dormitories until transportation providers, such as Amtrak train service, 11:00 p.m. have similar restrictions regarding unaccompanied

GENERAL SCHOOL INFORMATION

ACCREDITATION for the implementation of policy and the day-to-day The school is accredited and in good standing operations of the school. with The New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc. (NEASC). For a list of current trustees, please refer to the school’s website. GOVERNANCE The school is a non-profit organization, governed by a FAMILY-SCHOOL COMMUNICATION volunteer Board of Trustees. It is the responsibility of The school makes every efort to communicate this body to plan, develop, and establish policy, and to with parents and guardians clearly and consistently assess the performance of the school consistent with throughout the academic year. Williston is a commu- the school’s mission and philosophy. The Board of nity that values the partnership between families and Trustees is responsible for the selection of the head of the school, believing it strengthens the educational school and works in close collaboration with the head experience for our students. of school, though the head of school is responsible

46 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook For a full description of the many ways the school In order for the school to most efectively communi- communicates with parents, see page 3. cate with parents and support each student, it is im- portant for teachers and administrators to be aware Letters or emails may come from the Dean’s Ofce for of students who spend time in multiple households. notices of absences, warnings of accumulated minor Please be sure to communicate to the school about ofenses, and follow-up for more serious rule viola- primary caregivers in the event of an emergency, tions. Course selection books and sign-up notices are and whether special co-parenting arrangements ex- sent from the Academic Ofce prior to appropriate ist. If there are court-ordered guidelines regarding deadlines. Other special letters and emails will come visitations, picking up a student from school, parent from time to time. It is especially important that involvement in field trips, or other issues, please in- parents provide a current email address in order to clude the school in the communication loop. These receive school communications. situations can sometimes be stressful for parents and confusing for students, and assisting in minimizing PARENT-TEACHER COMMUNICATIONS phone calls for clarification is very important. Unless AND CONFERENCES otherwise specified, each parent for whom the main Parents should use their students’ advisor as the ofce has current contact information will receive primary method of communication with the school. access to the student’s end of trimester grades, as well Advisors will generally be the most informed and as other informational mailings and electronic com- best resource for families as a first step. There is also munications during the year. a formally structured family weekend held in the fall designed to give parents an opportunity to meet BACKGROUND CHECKS with teachers, advisors, and administrators. Parents With student safety as a priority at the school, the are welcome to visit the school at other times; how- school conducts state and national criminal history ever, appointments to meet with specific teachers or and sex ofender registry checks on all current and school ofcials should be made in advance. prospective faculty and staf of the school who may have “direct and unmonitored access to children,” CURRENT FAMILY CONTACT including any individual who regularly provides INFORMATION school-related transportation to students. Parents are expected to keep the school informed of contact information for emergency situations. If a The school requires any volunteers who will work parent is going to be away from home for an extended independently with students to undergo a state length of time, the parent should leave a forwarding criminal background check or “CORI” (Criminal address, email address, and telephone number where Ofender Record Information) and a state sex ofend- the parent can be reached, as well as information er registry check or “SORI” (Sexual Ofender Registry regarding who will be responsible for the student and Information). The School may require volunteers who should be contacted in the event of illness or with direct and unmonitored access to students to other emergency. Communication to the student’s ad- undergo a fingerprint-based check, which is run visor of the pending absence can also be helpful. through the Federal Bureau of Investigation and pro- vides access to national criminal history databases. MULTIPLE HOUSEHOLDS Examples of the types of volunteer activities requiring

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!47 a background check include, but are not limited to, local newspapers. As part of the enrollment process, field trips and tutoring students one-on-one. A back- parents are provided with an opportunity to opt out ground check is typically not necessary for parent of the use of their child’s student media information. volunteers involved with larger school functions at While the school strives to abide by parent/guardian which many adults are typically present or in instanc- wishes, we do not guarantee incidental use of a stu- es where there is only the potential for incidental un- dent’s name or image will never occur. supervised contact with students in commonly used areas of the school grounds. STUDENTS 18 AND OLDER Some students enrolled at the school will reach the These background checks require the completion age of 18 before graduation. In the United States, 18 of a brief application form and verification of a gov- years old is the age of majority, which means that le- ernment-issued photographic identification, and are gally, an 18-year-old student is able to enter into con- only conducted with the consent of an individual tractual obligations on the student’s own behalf (and employee or volunteer. A volunteer’s service, and an is required to abide by those obligations). Therefore, individual’s employment, is contingent upon success- the school requires all students, upon their 18th ful completion of the checks, which may take several birthday, to review the Reservation and Enrollment days or weeks to process. Agreement that their parents or legal guardians signed on the student’s behalf and execute an adden- Completed CORI and fingerprint-based check forms dum to that agreement, which provides: must be returned to the Business Ofce at least two • permission for the school to discuss and release weeks in advance of volunteering. information and records to the student’s parent(s) and legal guardian(s) about any issues relating to STUDENT MEDIA INFORMATION the student’s enrollment at the school, including In order to portray its program accurately and but not limited to, academic records, academic vibrantly, the school makes a concerted efort to performance, health matters, disciplinary issues highlight the accomplishments of our students and and financial matters; and faculty, as well as to publicize the strength of the en- • authorization for the school to interact with the tire program ofered by the school, in a variety of me- student’s parent(s) and legal guardian(s) as if the dia formats. Student media information—including student were under the age of 18. student names, photographic images (for example, The student’s parent(s) or legal guardian(s) will also portraits, pictures, videos, or other reproductions), continue to be responsible under the terms of the stu- audio recordings of students’ voices, video recordings dent’s Reservation and Enrollment Agreement. of students, and/or reproductions of students’ work and likenesses—may be used for educational and/or INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS promotional purposes in print and electronic media. Students enrolled at the school from countries Outlets for publication of student media information outside of the United States are required to ensure may include, but not be limited to, the school maga- that their visas, health insurance coverage, and all zine, marketing materials, the school website, press other requirements applicable to domestic students releases, social media outlets (including, but not (including vaccinations and completion of all enroll- limited to, Facebook and Twitter), newsletters, and ment and orientation forms) are in order prior to ar-

48 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook riving on campus at the beginning of the school year. at the school (whether the bullying or harassment International students with F-1 visas are responsible takes place on or of campus), including cyber-bul- for registering their I-20s and passports with the di- lying through the use of electronic technology (on rector of international student programs upon arrival or of the school’s campus, and on or of the school’s to campus. Any international travel thereafter must network). Particularly with respect to transgender be communicated to the dean’s ofce and the director and gender non-conforming students, the school will of international student programs in advance of break work closely with students and their families and travel. This process is essential to maintain each stu- strive to honor their wishes with respect to use of dent’s active visa status. school facilities, participation in athletics, accuracy of student records, use of preferred name and pronouns, International students are also responsible for en- and privacy, in accordance with applicable law, and to suring that their travel arrangements coincide with the extent that the school’s campus facilities reason- the school calendar. The school is not responsible ably permit. for housing international students outside of the published school calendar. International students and PETS ON CAMPUS students with families living abroad must have on Students are not allowed to have pets on campus. file the name, address, phone number, and email ad- However, boarding students often appreciate when dress of an individual within the continental United parents bring their family pet to campus to visit. States with whom they will stay during Thanksgiving, Families are allowed to do so, but should recognize winter, and spring vacations, if not returning home. that pets are not permitted in indoor areas of cam- Planning for these vacations is the responsibility pus, such as the Athletic Center, academic buildings, of the international student’s family. The school is dining commons, student center, or dormitories. In closed during these times, and boarding students are addition, pets should not be left unattended in a car not permitted to remain on campus. If a student is at any time. Pet owners should clean up after their not returning home, families should arrange for the pets and dispose of any waste in the large dumpsters student to be supervised by an adult during these located about campus. times and should communicate the adult’s contact information to the dean’s ofce. In addition, this PARKING, DROP-OFF, AND PICK-UP individual should be prepared to take custody of the With our students’ safety in mind, and because of fire student if an emergency or significant disciplinary or laws and safety procedures, please park only in desig- health situation were to occur. nated parking spaces and not along the driveways of the school or on the grass. LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL, AND TRANSGENDER STUDENTS The drop-of and pick-up location for the Upper The school strives to provide a safe and support- School is in front of the Reed Campus Center in the ive environment that will help students succeed campus quad circle. The entrance is directly across academically and socially. To that end, the school from the Phillips Stevens Chapel on Park Street. (The promotes respect for all people, and will not tolerate area behind Reed or behind the library should not harassment or bullying based on sexual orientation be used.) The pick-up and drop-of location for the or gender identity that impacts a student’s experience Middle School is on the circle near the entrance of

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!49 the Middle School. For safety, and in consideration of SCHOOL SUPPLIES AND BOOKS the school’s neighbors, please drive slowly on school Located in the Reed Campus Center, the Campus grounds and in the surrounding neighborhood and re- Store sells academic supplies, clothing, personal frain from using cell phones while driving on campus. items, and gifts. Textbooks are available through our online vendor. The online store at www.williston. STUDENT RECORDS AND TRANSCRIPTS com/store has a link for ordering books. This site Student records are kept on file in the Academic may also be used to sell back used books at the end Ofce. Each student’s record contains a transcript of the year. with grades and any formal communication between the school and the family, including disciplinary in- SAMMY CARD AND BUTTON BUCKS fractions. Requests for ofcial transcripts should be Students receive an ID (Sammy Card) during the directed to the academic dean. opening days of school. More than just a student identification card, it features a prepaid spending STUDENT CENTER account (Button Bucks), ofering a safe and secure The Student Center, located in the lower level of method for students to make cashless purchases. The the Reed Campus Center, contains the Stu-Bop snack card can be used on campus at the Campus Store and bar, student mailboxes, the campus store, a television the Stu-Bop snack bar, in vending machines on cam- lounge (which has a surround sound system and large pus, at the library and Health and Wellness Services, flat screen television), and a game room (including and for events organized by the Student Activities a pool table and ping-pong table), and day student Ofce. It is also accepted at a growing number of lockers. Easthampton businesses and by the school’s online textbook vendor. Parents have the option to set up LOST AND FOUND a recurring allowance for their children linked to a Lost and found items are held at the reception area in Visa or MasterCard account. If the Sammy card is the Schoolhouse. Please Note: school insurance cov- damaged or destroyed, the student is responsible for ers only school-owned property, not personal posses- replacing it through the Business Ofce for a $25 fee. sions. While the school endeavors to provide efective security for the Williston community, all personal Parents and students have 24/7 online access to their possessions in dorm rooms, locker rooms, storage Button Bucks account by registering at the Button rooms, etc., are the student’s responsibility at all Bucks Cardholder Account Center. Please visit www. times. Parents should discuss this responsibility with williston.com/business for more information. their son or daughter and are encouraged to enable any tracking mechanisms on devices. Please report HYDRATION INITIATIVE any lost or stolen items to the director of security. The school has installed hydration stations in all cam- pus buildings, including the dormitories. Students Loss of personal possessions while away at school are issued water bottles in their welcome day bags may be covered under standard homeowners- and and are encouraged to use them at these stations. The tenants-insurance policies; parents may wish to con- school makes a concerted efort not to use disposable firm this and request any documentation needed for plastic water bottles and requests that students and filing claims from their insurance agents. families refrain from bringing plastic disposable wa-

50 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook ter bottles to campus. This is an important environ- ASBESTOS HAZARD EMERGENCY mental initiative for the school. RESPONSE ACT This notification is required by the Asbestos Hazard GIFT GIVING Emergency Response Act (AHERA, 40 CFR Part The school discourages families from making 763 of Title II of the Toxic Substances Control Act). direct gifts to administrators, faculty, and staf. Asbestos Management Plans have been developed for However, parents should feel free to give their chil- the school. These plans are available and accessible dren’s teachers occasional, inexpensive tokens of to the public at the school’s Physical Plant Ofce. appreciation. Often, a note of thanks may be the most This notification is required by law and should not be appropriate gift. construed to indicate the existence of any hazardous conditions in our school buildings.

LEADERSHIP AND COMMUNITY SERVICE

All student leaders are expected to embody the such as Spirit Week, bonfires, dances, assemblies, and school’s values of respect for self and others, respon- community service endeavors. sibility and trust, and honor and integrity. A prerequi- site for any of the leadership positions defined in this 2018-19 Student Council and Class section is that the student is not currently on proba- Representatives tion at the school, nor will they be during their ten- Class of 2019. President: DJ Poulin ure. Thus, any student who commits a probationary Representatives: Robby Hill, Simon Kim, Walter ofense, while serving, may be required to relinquish Kissane, Caleb Stern their position. Class of 2020. President: Eric Albanese STUDENT COUNCIL Representatives: Jason Albanese, Julia Farnham, The Student Council facilitates dialogue between Nat Markey, Hal Stuart students and the school’s faculty and administration. The council initiates proposals for consideration Class of 2021. President: Anne-Valerie Clitus and adoption by the faculty and administration, Representatives: Anaya Akpalu, Molly Kinstle, and reviews and ofers student opinions on plans Ruby McElhone Yates, Nathan Shatz or proposals that significantly afect students and the community. The Student Council is comprised Class of 2022 and Middle School. To be determined of a class president and four representatives from Advisors: Mr. Hill, Ms. Noble, and Ms. Gordon each of the four Upper School classes and the two Middle School classes. Students are encouraged to Dormitory Proctors bring issues related to any aspect of student life to Proctors, typically seniors and juniors, are student the Student Council. The council is instrumental leaders in the dormitories who serve to enhance dor- in planning, promoting, and overseeing events that mitory life. As a link connecting students, dormitory cultivate a sense of community among its members, faculty, and the Dean’s Ofce, proctors help to create

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!51 and maintain a supportive atmosphere and an ef- Ellie Wolfe, Eric Albanese, Jason Albanese, Ethan ciently run dormitory. They assist with evening study Bradway, Aidan Burke, Ryan Dwyer, Jake Goodman, halls, help create a sense of dorm unity, and are alert Robby Hill, Nat Markey, Aidan McCreary, DJ Poulin, to student needs, ofering advice and assistance when Tyler Senecal, Caleb Stern necessary. The proctors also meet regularly with the Advisors: Ms. Noble and Mr. Koritkoski deans. International Student Mentors 2018-2019 Dormitory Proctors Students in this group serve as orientation guides • 194 Main Street Dormitory: Maddy Cardaci, and mentors for new international students, helping Ella Goodman, Lydia Ji, Nina Renkert them understand and adjust to the customs and • John Hazen White House: Jonathan Edwards, culture at Williston. Simon Kim, Jack Long, Jason Rhett, and Sam Strout 2018-19 International Student Mentors • Ford Hall: Abood Abuissa, Tim Rego, Bri Banas, Brandon Chin, Emily Cho, Ryan Dwyer, Jackson Strout Maura Holden, Kate Holmes, Ethan Huang, Lydia • Hathaway House: Brandon Chin, Insoo Kang, Ji, Shogo Kamei, Insoo Kang, Simon Kim, Minh Le, Vishnu Sekar Jimin Lee, Jack Long, Artur Lysyuk, Nhi Nguyen, Zoe • John Wright House: Walter Kissane, Gavin Kline, Okaisabor, Ha Phan, Tragn Phan,Poon Phentrakul, Cam Lawrence, Steven Wang Punn Phentrakul, Toyo Sato, T. Sawatyanon, Lila • Memorial Hall East: Chelsea Clark, Kassandra Schaefer, Peter Seo, Sabrina Shao, Amanda Shen, Orcutt, Amanda Shen, Molly Solan Tayah Sommer, Hana Tsukamoto, Michell Tu, Glede • Memorial Hall West: Emily Cho, Zoe Okaisabor, Wang, Steven Wang, Ariel Yen, Shez Zangmo Punn Phentrakul, Stella Piasecki 2018- 19 International Orientation Leaders Day Student Proctors Brie Banas, Katie Han, Na Lee, Dominic Liu, Fin A number of senior and junior day students are select- MacDonald, Ashley Nguyen, Chris Park, Ha Phan, ed in the spring as proctors of the day students. They Poon Phentrakul, Poojaa, Prakash Babu. Abby meet regularly with the deans on issues that pertain Schulkind, Shirley Shen, Jessie Tran, Michael Zhang to day students—weekend concerns, use of campus Advisor: Mrs. Valine facilities, cars, and parking—and, more significantly, specific ways that day students can contribute to and STUDENT ACTIVITIES AND enhance the entire Williston community. Since proc- ORGANIZATIONS tors serve as respected role models, they must main- Williston believes that significant learning and tain creditable academic and social standing. enrichment occur outside the classroom through involvement in extracurricular student organizations. 2018-19 Day Student Proctors Participation helps to develop leadership skills and Rachel Burke, Julia Cavanaugh, Maddie Elsea, Julia self-esteem and can introduce students to new in- Farnham, Nikki Foster, Dylan Fulcher-Melendy, terests and leisure activities. Club activities can help Claire Harrison, Karen Janocha, Catherine King, them discover artistic talents, hone their time-man- Virginia Kozikowski, Anna Moran, Emily Whipple, agement and organizational skills, and express their

52 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook concern for the school and global community through ulty members and/or the school’s bus company. giving of self, sharing, and explorations of common interests with others. The school believes that stu- The ofce of the director of student activities is lo- dents should participate in such activities in order to cated on the first floor of the Reed Student Center. take full advantage of the opportunities for intellectu- Announcements about upcoming activities are made al, physical, social, and creative development. at assemblies and published on the message boards around campus. Note: Participation in the Areté and Starting A Club Writing Center tutoring programs (see description on Students are encouraged to join or form new clubs in page 79) is determined through a selection process. their areas of interest. In order to start a club, a stu- dent first should ask the director of student activities FUNDRAISING for counsel. Fundraising is limited to on-campus groups and can- not be for personal benefit. Any planned fundraising Student Activities Ofce and Campus activity by any individual or group that will involve Activities Board selling items, collecting money, or collecting goods Each week, the Student Activities Ofce ofers stu- cannot proceed on campus until a fundraising appli- dents opportunities to attend a variety of events. cation form has been completed and approved. The On weekend evenings, options may include a play, form must be approved and signed by the advisor school dance, movie, concerts on or of campus, or of the group doing the fundraising, the controller trips to events in the Pioneer Valley, Springfield, in the Business Ofce, and a representative of the Hartford, Boston, or New York. The school takes ad- Advancement Ofce, and have final approval from the vantage of events at Smith, Mount Holyoke, Amherst, director of student activities. Card readers from the and Hampshire Colleges, and the University of Business Ofce will only be issued for fundraising ac- Massachusetts Amherst. Transportation is arranged tivities that have been approved and authorized. by the Student Activities Ofce and provided by fac-

SPECIAL EVENTS

SCHOOL-SPONSORED SOCIAL EVENTS some areas, such as social gatherings, they still need The school sponsors many special events annually, clear boundaries and guidance. The following section such as two formal dinners for the senior class with provides some ideas to consider. These ideas are the faculty, a community winter banquet, Cum Laude designed to be practical and, more importantly, are induction, and the Writers’ Workshop speaker series, based on the values that we, as a school, stand for as to cite just a few. All of these events are on the school part of our mission. In this sense, we hope that all our calendar and are also publicized to the community. parents will support these in spirit, if not in letter.

GATHERINGS OFF CAMPUS NOT 1. Always be present at an event or party in your own SPONSORED BY THE SCHOOL home. Adolescents may desire to be independent, but in • The parents should be the greeters. During the

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!53 party, parents should casually make their presence There is one regularly scheduled weekend of pro- known. grams for parents. At Family Weekend, October 5-6, • Have the party in a part of the house where the all parents have an opportunity to meet faculty and guests will be comfortable and where you can school ofcials, visit classes, and attend special pro- maintain adequate supervision. grams of interest to parents. When visiting, parents • Be the ones to bring in the food and beverages. may take their children of campus. The students This will keep the party running smoothly, and it must follow the usual sign-out procedures and are not will allow you to meet your child’s friends. permitted to miss any school obligations unless they • Occasionally walk around outside. have permission from the dean on duty. • Clearly establish ground rules and expectations with your child before the party takes place. SUPERVISED HOME VISITS • Let students know your expectations: they want As a school that includes both boarding and day stu- guidelines, though you may hear something quite dents, we welcome opportunities for day students diferent. to be involved on campus and for boarding students • Give students options, but with clear limits. to visit the homes of day students, whether for an Discuss their responsibilities and discuss what the evening or overnight. There are deliberate policies consequences are for inappropriate behavior and on campus to provide a safe social environment for what the rewards are for appropriate behavior. students (see page 23), and it is expected that parents • Stress the concept of shared responsibility. will provide an adult-supervised and drug- and alco- Parents should take the responsibility of “playing hol-free environment whenever Williston students the heavy,” if there is inappropriate behavior. are guests in their homes. When a day or boarding parent extends an invitation to a boarding student as 2. Make sure there is plenty of food and non-alcoholic an overnight guest, the school assumes the invitation beverages, and ofer some planned activities. means that a parent will be at home and will not per- mit student use of alcohol or drugs. Parents are urged 3. If your child is invited to a party, you should con- to communicate with each other to ensure that all tact the parent giving the party. student gatherings are supervised and substance free. • Verify the location. • Verify that parents will be present. Parents are strongly encouraged to communicate with • Verify the starting and ending time. the dean of students or the associate dean of students • Ofer assistance (e.g., chaperone, food, etc.). regarding any unsupervised party or substance abuse • If there is to be a sleepover, find out the adult concerns, so that there may be appropriate interven- host’s ground rules. tion or follow-up. Parent calls inviting students to vis- If parents must be away for any length of time, make it should be made to the Dean’s Ofce well before the arrangements for supervision in the home to ensure students are scheduled to leave campus for the visit. that you, the students, and the home are protected. Many parties occur in homes when parents are away. SCHOOL TRIPS Let the school and neighbors know if parents are away. The school ofers a variety of field trips during the school year. At the Middle School, parents/guardians FAMILY WEEKEND AND VISITS are notified of upcoming of-campus trips via email

54 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook from the director of the Middle School. At the Upper DANCES School, parents may or may not be told of the trip in Dances are a popular on-campus social activity that advance depending on the length of the trip, travel as- are well attended and are overseen by the director of sociated with it, and whether it involves an overnight. student activities. In past years, the school has also All school trips are alcohol, drug, and tobacco free. hosted a winter semi-formal dance in February and Students participating in school trips must comply a senior prom in May. Williston students wishing with all applicable school rules and all applicable to bring a guest should notify the Dean’s Ofce in laws. The school may deny a student participation on advance to receive permission to do so. This includes a trip if the school cannot accommodate the student’s completing and submitting a form signed by the vis- needs safely or the student is not in good standing. iting student’s parent and the school administration where that student is enrolled. Other independent SPECIAL OVERNIGHT TRIPS schools are often invited to Williston dances and In the Middle School, all eighth graders travel to these students travel and attend with chaperones Washington, D.C., during the last week of school. It is from their school. a faculty chaperoned trip with additional experienced tour guides enlisted in Washington, D.C. For more in- The following guidelines express our expectations for formation about this trip, please contact the director conduct at all Williston dances. Students are expected of the Middle School. to act respectfully and appropriately toward each oth- er, visiting students, the DJ, and the chaperones. Any In the Upper School, faculty members organize annu- student who engages in inappropriate behavior may al trips during the vacation periods to destinations of be asked to stop the behavior. If the behavior persists, interest. These are announced to the students during the chaperone may be notified and the student may assemblies, and parents are notified of these oppor- be asked to leave the dance floor and spend the re- tunities via email or the Weekly Update. The chief mainder of the evening with a chaperone. A student financial ofcer oversees these trips and should be may also be subject to discipline, as deemed appropri- contacted for more information. ate by the dean on duty.

THE ROBERT PARKER CLAPP LIBRARY

Students go to the library to study, gather informa- or informational purposes during the academic day; tion, write papers, browse current magazines, work academic needs have priority over recreational pur- quietly in groups, and indulge in leisure reading. A suits. All use of these computers should be in confor- professional librarian is available to give individual mity with the school’s AUP. attention to students’ questions as well as to teach research strategies to classes. LOAN PERIOD Books and CDs circulate for a loan period of approx- The library has three Surface docking stations and imately three weeks; DVDs for one week. Students three Mac computers, wireless access, and a printer/ may take out an unlimited number of books and CDs, copier. Computers are to be used only for academic unless others are also pursuing the same topic for a

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!55 class; in that case, books are set aside in the library. INTERLIBRARY LOAN Borrowers must return items if requested for class use Although Williston’s collection is selected to provide or reserve. Signing out DVDs is limited to three at a ample resources for class assignments, interlibrary time. loan requests are sent out when needed. The library participates in the Western Massachusetts Regional RETURNS AND RENEWALS Library System. Students are encouraged to renew material as need- ed. This can be done in person or by email. An over- CONDUCT due notice is sent shortly before an item is due, and a Students are expected to behave considerately toward fine of 10 cents a day is assessed for significantly late others by respecting the need for quiet of those who items. If an item is not returned after the third no- are studying. Students are encouraged to be environ- tice (approximately one month later), the student is mentally conscious in their use of paper. The library billed the replacement cost plus a non-refundable $10 adheres to campus-wide expectations during evening processing fee per item. If the item is subsequently study hall. Electronic devices may not be used to returned, the student is credited the cost of the item. communicate with others during this time. All stu- dents sign in when they arrive, sign out at departure, The timely return of library material is the respon- and may not come and go in between. Beverages in sibility of the individual to whom it was loaned. covered containers and light snacks are allowed, with Students should not pass books on to others, but rath- the understanding that recyclables and trash will be er return them to the library to be signed out anew. disposed of in the containers provided. Any questions about overdue materials should be directed to the library at (413) 529-3225.

THE AFTERNOON PROGRAM

The Afternoon Program is an integral part of the options; seventh grade has no requirement for partic- Williston experience. The program is required for ipation. It should be noted that all new Upper School Upper School students, boarding and day, each tri- students must choose a group option in the fall. mester. Depending on their grade level, students choose either group or independent options. An over- Students wishing to pursue any special project or view of the Afternoon Program Options for 2018– exemption, including an outside sport, sport special- 2019 is included in Appendix B (see page 88). In ization, academic- or art-related endeavor, or any oth- recognition of the importance of physical education, er type of project, must apply to the Special Project all options include an exercise component. The fol- Committee at least one week prior to the start of an lowing is a review of the expectations for the various Afternoon Program trimester. grade levels: twelfth grade must select a minimum of one group option; ninth, tenth, and eleventh grade, The school understands that it is inevitable that some a minimum of two group options; eighth grade must students may pursue interests of campus, athletic participate for two trimesters in two diferent group or otherwise, during the school year. In general, it is

56 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook school policy that students must first meet their com- communication take place between students and their mitment to the Williston Afternoon Program. Having Williston Afternoon Program leader (coach, teacher) said this, the school recognizes that there will be the to avoid conflicts when possible. Questions regarding occasional conflict. In such cases, it is critical that this should be directed to the director of athletics.

ATHLETICS

In keeping with the school’s mission, the Athletic waiver. Students wishing to pursue any special project Department seeks to instill in students purpose, pas- or exemption, including an outside sport, sport spe- sion, and integrity. For many, athletic involvement cialization, academic or art endeavor, or any type of and daily physical activity are an integral part of project, must apply to the Special Project Committee Williston life. Students are encouraged to participate at least one week prior to the start of the afternoon in a minimum of one season of interscholastic athlet- program trimester. Applications are available through ics each school year. the Athletic Department.

The associate athletic director coordinates and over- ELIGIBILITY sees the sign-up each season. Students are encouraged Students are required to have on file a medical form to try new sports, and they have the opportunity to completed and signed by a medical doctor stating change sports within the first three weeks of each sea- that the student is physically fit to participate in son. After this period of time, students are expected to physical education classes and athletics. No one will remain committed to their program for the remainder be allowed to participate until this form is on file. In of the season. The school requires that every student addition, students must attend at least 50 percent of attend all weekend practices and games. their classes and scheduled commitments on a given day to be eligible for participation in athletics and Upper School students may elect to apply for a all extracurricular activities on that day. Exceptions one-trimester waiver to participate in an athletic of- to this policy need to be approved in advance by the fering outside of the regular afternoon program. These dean of students and director of athletics. would include either pursuing a sport that Williston does not ofer of campus in a formal program (ex- COMMITMENT amples include rock climbing, gymnastics, and figure Commitment is an important aspect of all students’ skating) or pursuing a sport specialization (examples involvement in the athletics program. The school rec- include spring soccer and fall baseball). Regarding ognizes that students will miss games and practices the sport specialization option, it is important to note due to illness, religious holidays, etc., but expects that the school does not encourage students to specialize all parents will appreciate what the school is trying at Williston, but rather to have a variety of athletic to accomplish and be supportive of its eforts in this experiences. Over the years, our most talented indi- regard. Leaving school early on a long weekend, and viduals have thrived on maintaining such diversity in missing a commitment, is considered a serious breach their athletic involvement. That said, truly exception- of a student’s commitment to the school. al students will be considered for a single trimester

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!57 ATHLETIC CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT sports, coaches will also require team members to Each student is responsible (at cost of replacement) purchase practice gear (e.g., sport specific t-shirts, for all items of clothing and equipment issued to shorts, etc.). These costs are generally kept under $75 him or her by the Athletic Department. Clothing and and will be communicated to families and charged to equipment is to be returned in a condition similar to student accounts. Team members will also occasion- when it was issued, taking into consideration normal ally initiate team apparel purchases for sport-specific wear. Cutting the sleeves of a jersey would not con- items (e.g., jackets, hooded sweatshirts, etc.). These stitute normal wear and players would be charged team apparel purchases are entirely optional for each for a new item. The school does not assume respon- team member. Eforts are made to keep these costs sibility for missing articles that are left in lockers; under $100. Team members will pay for team apparel students must keep their lockers secured at all times. in advance using cash, a check, or their Sammy card. Uniforms need to be returned on the day of a contest Because of the nature of several of our afternoon of- so they can be cleaned. ferings (e.g., skiing, golf, and horseback riding) that operate at facilities outside of Williston, participation The following protective equipment is supplied: in these specific programs requires an additional ex- football equipment; hockey equipment with the pense. It should be noted that when it is necessary for exception of gloves and elbow pads; and lacrosse/ teams to stay overnight in hotels during team trips, field hockey equipment with the exception of gloves, students will be charged to help cover the expense. arm pads, and goggles. The school does not supply footwear. SPORTSMANSHIP While the school recognizes the importance of com- GAME DAY INFORMATION petition in athletics, the school also places great At the beginning of each week, the Athletic emphasis on good sportsmanship. Whether partici- Department will publish (and post on the display pating in or attending athletic events, all students are monitor outside of the cage) a copy of the schedule of expected to represent the school in a manner that is events noting time of contests, meal times, departure respectful of others, both on and of the field of play. time, methods of transportation, estimated time of re- turn, etc. All of this information, including directions Sportsmanship goals include: to all games, is available on the school’s website. • developing a sense of dignity under all circum- stances; ATHLETIC EVENT UPDATES • respecting the rules of the game, the ofcials who For scheduling changes to athletic events caused by administer the rules, and their decisions; inclement weather or other unexpected events, stu- • respecting opponents as fellow students and dents and parents should visit the school’s website acknowledging them for striving to do their best and sign up for alerts to be notified of changes in while you seek to do your best at the same time; schedules. • looking at athletic participation as a potentially beneficial learning experience, whether you win ADDITIONAL EXPENSES or lose; Parents should be aware of possible additional ex- • educating other students and fans to understand penses for athletic program participation. For some the rules of the game, and the value of

58 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook sportsmanship; and care of athletic-related medical conditions. All athlet- • accepting the personal responsibility that comes ic injuries should be reported to the Athletic Training with your actions on the court/field. Ofce for proper care and follow-up. In order for ath- • The school encourages parents to act in a letes to return safely to practices and contests follow- sportsman-like manner. As such, the school hopes ing an injury or illness, they must be “cleared” by the parents will: medical team on campus to return to participation in • realize that athletics are part of the educational the relevant capacity. experience, and the benefits of involvement go beyond the final score of a game; As they deem appropriate, athletic trainers will refer • encourage students to perform their best, just athletes to other health care providers. Students who as we would urge them on with their classwork, are evaluated or treated by of-campus health care knowing that others will always turn in better or providers must provide satisfactory documentation lesser performances; to health services outlining the assessment, care, and • participate in positive cheers and encouragement treatment plan. If a provider restricts or modifies an for our athletes and discourage any cheer that re- athlete’s participation, the same provider must be the directs that focus; one to “clear” the patient for return to play prior to • learn, understand, and respect the rules of the the athletic trainer also clearing the student. game, the ofcials who administer them, and their decisions; HEAD INJURY/CONCUSSION POLICY • respect the task our coaches face as teachers, and As a school, we take head injuries seriously and support them as they strive to educate our stu- follow current recommendations of the Centers for dents; and Disease Control, Massachusetts law, and the nation- • respect our opponents as students, and acknowl- ally recognized ImPact ™ protocols for head injuries edge them for striving to do their best. and/or concussions (see description below). The athletic trainers, coaches, and Health and Wellness DISCIPLINE Services staf members have training regarding head Students should understand that they represent the injuries and are provided with clinical updates on a school both on and of campus. Their conduct at regular basis. Our head injury and concussion man- social and athletic events, including events hosted agement protocols employ a team approach and pro- by other schools, is a reflection on the rest of the vide for daily monitoring of the student. In addition, school community. Behavioral infractions occurring the director of Health and Wellness Services serves in connection with athletic events will be considered as a liaison between coaches, teachers, advisors, the inappropriate behavior, with disciplinary action taken student, and the family. For more information on the when appropriate. school’s head injury and concussion management pro- tocols, please contact Health and Wellness Services. SPORTS MEDICINE The school employs two full-time licensed and board A concussion is a complex disturbance in brain func- certified athletic trainers. The athletic trainers are tion, due to direct or indirect trauma to the head, allied health care providers who specialize in the related to neurometabolic dysfunction, rather than assessment, treatment, rehabilitation, and emergency structural injury. A concussion can occur with or

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!59 without a loss of consciousness, and proper manage- • www.cdc.gov/headsup/parents/index.html ment is essential to the safety and long-term future of • www.nfhs.org/sports-resource-content/a-parents- the injured individual. A head injury is a direct blow guide-to-concussion/ to the head or indirect trauma to the head including a • www.impacttest.com/audience/?parents-3 concussion or traumatic brain injury. Signs and Symptoms Guidelines outlined below should be followed to An athlete may report one or more of the following ensure that students are identified, treated, and re- symptoms: headache or “pressure” in head; double or ferred appropriately, receive appropriate follow-up fuzzy vision; dizziness; tinnitus (ringing in the ears); care during the school day, and are recovered prior to nausea; “just doesn’t feel right;” sensitivity to light returning to full activity. For questions or concerns at and/or noise; feeling sluggish, foggy, or groggy; con- any time, please contact the Athletic Training Ofce. centration/memory problems; and/or confusion.

Concussion Awareness One or more of the following symptoms may be ob- Concussions and other brain injuries can be serious served in the athlete: loss of consciousness; appears and potentially life threatening. If managed properly, dazed or stunned; moves clumsily; unsure of score, most athletes can enjoy long careers in sports after opponent, date, etc.; cannot recall events prior to a concussion. Research indicates that these injuries incident; cannot recall events after incident; answers can also have serious consequences later in life if not questions slowly; confused about what to do—assign- managed properly. The school has developed pro- ments, position, etc.; forgets an instruction; shows cedures to help ensure the safety and well-being of mood, behavior, or personality changes. student athletes. The school recommends that an athlete should re- A concussion occurs when there is a direct or indirect ceive prompt medical attention for the following injury to the brain. As a result, transient impair- dangerous symptoms of a concussion. These include ment of mental functions such as memory, balance/ any of the following: equilibrium, and vision may occur. It is important to • loss of consciousness recognize that many sports-related concussions do • vomiting not result in loss of consciousness and, therefore, all • confusion suspected head injuries should be taken seriously. • convulsions or seizures Coaches, parents, and fellow teammates can be help- • pupils unequal in size or unreactive to light ful in identifying those who may potentially have a • difculty recognizing people or places concussion because a concussed athlete may not be • extreme drowsiness or cannot be awakened aware of, or may be trying to hide the injury to stay in • any weakness or numbness the game or practice. • headache that worsens or does not go away after 24 hours The school strongly recommends that all athletes and their parents visit at least one of the following web- When an athlete shows any signs, symptoms, or be- sites and view the concussion course materials prior haviors consistent with a concussion, the athlete is ex- to participation in athletics at the school: pected to be promptly removed from practice or com-

60 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook petition and evaluated by the athletic trainer and/or professional/licensed athletic trainer available, the the student’s health care provider. The athlete must be coaching staf will typically abide by, “When in doubt, evaluated by a health care specialist with experience sit them out,” as recommended by the Centers for in the evaluation and management of concussion. Disease Control.

• An athlete diagnosed with a concussion will be If any danger signs are exhibited as described above, withheld from the competition or practice and the school will contact a parent/guardian and a not return to activity for the remainder of that representative will accompany the athlete to an day. emergency room. • Parents/guardian will be notified. • The athlete will be monitored for signs of ImPACT deterioration. The school has implemented an innovative program • The athlete will be evaluated by a concussion for our students that will assist our team physician specialist or, if at school, by the athletic trainer. and certified athletic trainers in evaluating and • Return to play will typically follow a medically treating head injuries. In order to help manage supervised stepwise process initiated by the concussions sustained by our students, we have ac- concussion specialist in communication with the quired a software tool called ImPACT (Immediate athletic training staf. Post Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing). ImPACT is a computerized exam used in many pro- Management Procedures fessional, collegiate, and high school sports programs Concussion management begins with preseason across the country to diagnose and manage concus- baseline testing via SAC, BESS and/or ImPACT neu- sions. If a student is believed to have sufered a head rocognitive testing (description follows). It is strongly injury during competition, ImPACT is used to help recommended that students take a preseason baseline determine the severity of head injury and when the assessment for concussion that will remain on hand injury has fully healed. in the event of a concussion. It is also strongly rec- ommended that parents and athletes take an online The computerized exam is given to students prior to course prior to the start of each school year. participation in the afternoon program. This non-inva- sive test is set up in video-game-type format and takes If an athlete sustains a sports-related head injury, about 20 minutes to complete. It is simple, and many including a suspected concussion, the athletic trainer students actually enjoy the challenge of taking the or Health and Wellness Services must be notified test. Essentially, the ImPACT test is a preseason phys- immediately so that concussion assessment can be ical of the brain. It helps to track information includ- administered. If an athlete sustains a concussion, the ing memory, reaction time, speed, and concentration. athletic trainer, school nurse, or coach will notify parents and appropriate school staf and follow the If a concussion is suspected, the student will general- protocol established for concussion management. ly be required to re-take the test. Both the preseason and post-injury test data is given to the family or At away events, when there is no qualified medical treating physician to help evaluate the injury. The test

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!61 data will enable these health professionals to deter- swimming etc. at <70% predicted maximum heart mine when return-to-play is appropriate and safe for rate) the injured athlete. • Level 2: moderate aerobic exercise and sprints • Level 3: sport specific training (running, throw- ImPACT testing procedures are non-invasive, and ing, and catching) they generally pose no risks to the student. This pro- • Level 4: Non-contact training drills and weight- gram provides some of the best available information lifting (non-contact practice) for managing concussions. The school’s administra- • Level 5: Full contact practice tion, coaching, and athletic training staf are striving • Level 6: Game play (no activity restrictions) to keep students’ health and safety at the forefront of the student athletic experience. Concussion Prevention Measures • Make sure that helmets are fitted properly. Please go to www.impacttest.com for further informa- • Make sure that athletes are wearing properly fit- tion or feel free to contact the Athletic Department ted mouth guards during all practices and games. for more information. • Practice correct hitting, tackling, and soccer head- ing techniques. Post-Concussion Return To Play • An athlete should not return to athletic activity Students must meet all of the following criteria in if he/she has any symptoms at rest and/or with order to progress to activity: exertion. • be symptom-free at rest and with exertion (in- cluding mental exertion in school); Second-Impact Syndrome • be within normal range of baseline on post-con- Second-Impact Syndrome (SIS) results from an acute cussion ImPACT testing; and brain swelling that occurs when a second concussion • have written clearance from the appropriate is sustained before complete recovery from a previous health care provider. concussion. Athletes who have mild symptoms or symptoms that have cleared are still at risk for de- Once the above criteria are met, the athlete will be veloping brain swelling after a second impact to the progressed back to full activity following a stepwise head. It is important to note that virtually all of the process that includes: second-impact syndrome cases that have been report- • Level 1: light aerobic exercise (stationary bike, ed have occurred in adolescent athletes.

THE VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS INTENSIVE PROGRAM

The Visual and Performing Arts Intensive Program during the Afternoon Program. exists to provide opportunities and support for the serious musician, visual artist, or theater technician/ actor. In instances of demonstrated commitment, a student may opt to spend one or two trimesters (depending on grade level) engaged in arts activities

62 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook DISCIPLINE GUIDELINES

These guidelines are based on the school’s philosophy discretion), up to and including dismissing a student and principles regarding good character, and reflect from school and removal of academic credit, regard- the school’s commitment to providing a safe and less of whether the Discipline Committee is convened healthy environment for students. The school strives and regardless of the Discipline Committee’s recom- to promote efective and caring communication mendation. The head of school (or designee) has sole among faculty, students, and parents that supports and absolute discretion with respect to determining students in their personal growth and provides room disciplinary consequences for students. All disci- for a young person to make mistakes and learn from plinary decisions are final and not subject to appeal. them. Students and families are expected to act with integrity in reporting and acknowledging miscon- Just as every student manifests an agreement to abide duct, accepting the consequences determined by the by these rules by attending classes and other activities school, and moving forward, having learned from the sponsored by the school, so does every family express experience. The guidelines in this section apply to all its commitment to these policies by enrolling a stu- conduct by students, whether on or of campus, as dent at the school. Along with this commitment is long as they are enrolled at the school. the firm understanding by all parties that parents and guardians accept and support any disciplinary action Consequences of misconduct (and/or attempting taken by the school. It is not for any student or family misconduct) applicable to all students are detailed to determine what is appropriate disciplinary action. below. Students may be disciplined for any conduct— whether on or of school grounds, or during, before, The head of school may share with the school com- or after the academic year—which is illegal, contrary munity incidents of student misconduct, as well as to school policies or mission, culture or expectations, resulting disciplinary decisions or other outcomes, disruptive of the educational process, or that endan- including at any school meeting or assembly so that gers persons or property, as long as they are enrolled all members of the school community may learn and at the school. grow from the experience. These communications are for the purpose of furthering the educational mission Students who choose to remain present when other and learning environment for students and the school students are engaging in misconduct may be subject community. Conversations about behavior happen to disciplinary action. Students who fail to contact frequently and students come to expect that the school leadership if they are aware of misconduct, or school, including its faculty, will play an active role in possible misconduct, may be subject to disciplinary their lives. We are, first and foremost, a community of action. The school may, in its sole discretion, contact learners. Respect for one another is critical. parents/guardians to address both minor and more serious instances of misconduct, at any stage of the DISCIPLINARY ACTION discipline process. Honor System Please refer to the Honor Code and Academic In any situation, the head of school (or designee) may Honesty section of this handbook (page 8) for infor- impose disciplinary action (in the head of school’s sole mation on the school’s honor system and consequenc-

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!63 es for academic dishonesty. • reprehensible conduct tending to discredit the school Examples of student conduct that may invoke a disci- When found in the presence of another student vi- plinary response include, but are not limited to, the olating the school’s standards of conduct, a student following: will receive similar consequences unless there are • failure to abide by the school’s expectations of stu- particular, extenuating circumstances. Responsibility dents, as outlined in this handbook and elsewhere to avoid such a situation rests with the student. As • excessive absences, tardiness, or being unprepared in all circumstances, a student’s integrity is a prime for academic or extra-curricular activities concern. Boarding students are expected to follow • violating dress code reasonable precautions (such as locking their rooms • theft, vandalism, or destruction of property of and not lending out their key or key card) to prevent others or the school the use of their rooms by other students for purposes • unauthorized use of another’s personal proper- of breaking school rules. Students who in any way ty, including use of a credit card, bank card, or facilitate drug, alcohol, or tobacco use will be held Sammy card accountable under the “in the presence of” rule. • possession or use of any firearm, knife, explosive, Incidents not specifically addressed will be disci- open flame, or dangerous object plined as the school deems appropriate. • possession, sale, use, or transfer of alcohol, tobac- co, or any illegal drug or controlled substance DISCIPLINARY TERMS AND PROCESS • assault on another person The school may discipline and/or dismiss a student • improper sexual conduct or sexual exploitation without a disciplinary hearing if it deems it appro- • bullying, hazing, harassment, or other interper- priate, in its sole discretion. The school may sus- sonal misconduct pend, separate, or dismiss students at any time for • cheating, academic dishonesty, falsifying an over- conduct that is unacceptable and/or detrimental to night sign-out or a sign-out to travel beyond cam- its program, or for conduct that violates the laws of pus boundaries (or going elsewhere other than Massachusetts, regardless as to whether or not a spe- what is written), forgery, possession of false iden- cific rule has been violated, whether actions or events tification, signing into someone’s email without occurred on or of campus, during the school day, or permission, or being dishonest or deceptive at any other time while the Student is enrolled at the • riding in, driving without permission, or driving school, or whether they were committed by boarding another without permission in a motor vehicle or day students. • acts of unkindness, rudeness, or inappropriate behavior For a first ofense violation, if the incident was not • classroom behavior that impedes learning egregious and the student takes full responsibility for • distribution or electronic transmission of material the action, the dean of students will generally deter- that contains obscene, profane, lewd, vulgar, rude, mine the consequences of the ofense for the student. disrespectful, threatening, discriminatory, prej- udicial, false, defamatory, or otherwise inappro- If a student receives two dean’s warnings as a result priate language or images, as determined by the of either attendance or decorum units (described on school in its sole discretion page 68) during a school year, the student will be

64 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook placed on probation, may have additional disciplinary hour from noon until 6 p.m. on Sunday. Day students consequences, and may meet with the Discipline are to promptly leave campus and return home at 6 Committee. p.m. on Sunday after Clipboarding.

Below is a list of defined terms and likely sequencing Dean’s warning. A dean’s warning is a formal written of consequences. However, the school may impose warning issued by the dean of students that indicates student discipline in any way it deems appropriate, that repetition of a specific behavior or set of behav- and is not restricted by these definitions or sequences. iors, or any other disciplinary infraction, may result in more severe disciplinary action. A single dean’s warn- Consequence. This is any disciplinary response by ing is below the threshold of a discipline violation that the dean of students that addresses a violation or is reported to colleges. We don’t expect a student to behavior and may result in a warning, loss of use, loss commit the same violation again, thus a second dean’s of privileges or permissions, confiscation of an item warning for the same type of violation may be consid- for a specified period of time, work assignment, room ered a second probationary ofense and will generally confinement, restriction, assignment to Saturday lead to a meeting with the Discipline Committee. Night Consequence, or some other or combination of the above consequences. Probation. Probation is a disciplinary action that re- sults from specific behaviors and is the usual sanction Room confinement. Boarding students must return for the first ofense of serious misconduct. Generally, to their dormitory at 7:30 p.m. on weeknights (7 p.m. a student who is placed on probation remains on that on weekends), check in with the dorm parent on status for a calendar year. For boarding students, it duty, and remain in their room until 6 a.m. the next is generally accompanied by attending a Saturday morning. They are not allowed to have visitors in Night Consequence, and a loss of permissions. For their room. This is a common response for the accu- day students, it is generally accompanied by attending mulation of points due to misbehavior or neglect of a Saturday Night Consequence, and not participating responsibilities in the dormitories. in student activities on the weekend. When a student has been placed on probation, parents are often asked Saturday Night Consequence. The student must to discuss the matter with the dean of students, the do academic work in a specified classroom in the student’s advisor, and the student. Probationary viola- Middle School (Whitaker-Bement) from 7:30 to tions are considered disciplinary events that may be 9:30 pm or 10:30 p.m. on the assigned Saturday reported to colleges when requested. evening. Boarding students will also not be granted overnight or weekend permissions as Saturday Night Serious misconduct while on probation generally Consequence is the usual result of accumulating mul- results in dismissal from the school. The school will tiple attendance or decorum units. Failure to attend generally not allow a student to be placed on pro- an assigned Saturday Night Consequence may result bation twice in the same school year. A subsequent in more significant discipline. incident of serious misconduct usually results in sep- aration or dismissal (see below). Clipboarding. Students must remain on campus and check in with the dean on duty every hour on the The school may deny the privilege of participation in

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!65 graduation ceremonies to a senior placed on proba- respect for the rules and/or reputation of the school. tion in the third trimester. This consequence may re- sult in a student not graduating and the withholding Students who have withdrawn or been separated or of a diploma. dismissed from Williston may not return to campus during the school year unless they have the written Loss of Leadership Position. A student in a leader- permission of the head of school or dean of students ship position, such as class ofcers and proctors, may and are accompanied by their parents. lose these positions. While the school may ofer a student who is sep- Community Service Hours. Students may be re- arated an opportunity to complete course work, quired to complete a certain number of hours of this privilege is not automatic and is granted at the community service. This work will be completed on school’s sole discretion. If the school allows the priv- or of campus, and a required number of hours will be ilege of completion of academic work for credit, the determined by the school in its sole discretion. student may take assessments and receive regular numerical averages for the marking period, only Suspension. The student will be sent home for if the separation occurs so close to the end of the a specified period of time, usually for one week. trimester that the only remaining graded work for Parents of a suspended student may be required to the trimester is the assessment(s). If the separation return to school with their child for a meeting with occurs for any substantial length of time before the the dean, the student’s advisor, and the student. trimester closes, all assigned tests, papers, and as- When a student is suspended, the student bears the sessments must be completed for credit to be grant- burden and responsibility for obtaining all missed ed. Evaluation will be on a pass/fail basis, and the assignments and completing them. Major papers due student’s transcript will show only numerical grades during a suspension must be submitted on time. earned before leaving the school.

Separation. The student is sent home for the remain- DISCIPLINE COMMITTEE der of the academic year. Return may be possible and The Discipline Committee, chaired by the dean of requests for reinstatement are made to the head of students, consists of students selected based upon school. their character and integrity and through an applica- tion process. The committee is generally comprised Dismissal. The student is dismissed from school with of an equal number of students and faculty members. no possibility for return. Actions likely to result in Generally, students appearing before the Discipline separation or dismissal include but are not limited to: Committee are accompanied by their advisors. gross violations of personal or academic honor; theft Parents and individuals from outside the school or unauthorized use of another’s credit card or bank community are not permitted to attend Discipline card; distributing drugs or alcohol to others; multi- Committee meetings. The Discipline Committee may ple, egregious, simultaneous, or successive major or recommend suspension, separation, dismissal, and/ minor ofenses; abusive language or actions toward or any other actions. The Discipline Committee de- person or property; or significant misconduct or dis- cisions are recommendations to the head of school,

66 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook who may accept, reject, or modify such decisions, in • bullying or malicious gossip the head of school’s sole discretion. • repeated acts of unkindness or misconduct • repeated classroom behavior that impedes other In any situation, the head of school may impose disci- students’ learning plinary action, in the head of school’s sole discretion, • refusal to cooperate with an ongoing investigation including but not limited to dismissing a student into interpersonal misconduct from the school, regardless of whether the Discipline In some cases, students will be aforded the opportu- Committee was convened and regardless of the nity to withdraw from school prior to a meeting with Discipline Committee’s recommendation. the Discipline Committee. However, once the meet- ing convenes, this option is unavailable. If a student is A student may be required by the head of school, the dismissed following a Discipline Committee meeting, dean of students, or their designees, in their sole dis- it will be noted in the student’s transcript. cretion, to appear before the Discipline Committee for engaging in inappropriate conduct. Students 2018-19 Student Discipline Committee are generally required to meet with the Discipline Members Committee in the following situations: Class of 2019: Aidan Burke, Robby Hill, Simon Kim, • for a first probationary ofense, when the facts are Gates MacPherson, Amanda Shen in question • for a second probationary ofense in the same year COLLEGE REPORTING • for a third probationary ofense during their ten- Williston’s mission statement emphasizes “integrity” ure at the school for a situation that might result as one of the three pillars which we all aspire to ex- in dismissal on a first ofense, such as serious acts emplify in our community. We believe integrity is the of misconduct or egregious violation of school cornerstone for one’s personal growth, education, and rules experience at Williston. In our residential communi- ty, our faculty are called upon to guide students to de- Serious acts of misconduct may include but are not velop the highest standards of personal conduct and limited to the following: comportment. It is the policy of the school to report • possession or use of alcohol, tobacco, or illegal changes in a student’s status to colleges during one’s drugs (including misuse of prescription or over- senior year. Changes in status include separation, the-counter drugs) withdrawal, and dismissal. In addition, the school • improper sexual conduct may disclose and discuss candidly with a college a • sexual or other harassment student’s disciplinary history at the school or any in- • threat or use of physical violence formation that we believe warrants disclosure. • possession or use of matches, lighters, fireworks, explosives, weapons, or other dangerous materials In keeping with this philosophy, it is our expectation • reprehensible conduct tending to reflect serious that students will answer questions about disciplinary discredit to the school history honestly on college applications. It is the • willful destruction of property school’s policy to support students if they must report • stealing serious disciplinary consequences to colleges. On • dishonesty applications in which students are asked to disclose

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!67 disciplinary information to colleges, we counsel them to serve whatever consequences were assigned to through the process, informing them that failure to them for the previous term if not already completed. do so is a violation of our philosophy and core values. In contrast, decorum units accumulate throughout the school year and do not reset at the beginning of a While disciplinary matters are of concern to colleges, trimester. The Dean’s Ofce oversees the accounting our experience is that they understand that young of attendance and decorum units. people make mistakes. Admissions committees are typically more concerned with the manner in which Consequences for Attendance Units students respond to disciplinary sanctions than the Students accumulate one attendance unit for an actual event leading to the sanctions. A mature and unexcused absence to any school commitment or graceful response to a discipline infraction can illus- upon every third lateness to school commitments, in trate a student’s growth and development as a young accordance with the attendance policies outlined in adult. Should students or family members have any the handbook. Faculty report unexcused absences to questions about this policy, they should not hesitate the Dean’s Ofce, which notifies students, advisors, to contact the director of college counseling. and parents through Veracross. The following are the consequences for accumulating attendance units, DISCLOSURE TO NEXT SCHOOLS with the understanding that the deans have the dis- If a student has recently been accepted to attend a cretion to limit a student’s permissions in addition to diferent school, is suspended or dismissed, or experi- these customary consequences. Students and parents ences any significant change in status at the school af- are expected to pay close attention to the “behavior ter the student’s applications have been submitted to report” on Veracross to ensure accuracy and com- other schools, it is the obligation of the student and pliance. Students have 48 hours to contest an atten- the student’s parents to contact all such other schools dance unit after it has been issued. to inform them of the incident. The school may, • Three units: Upon the student accumulating a in its sole discretion, also communicate with each third attendance unit in a given term, generally other school regarding the situation. The school will the student will be required to serve a two-hour generally work closely with students and families to Saturday Night Consequence and have a loss of support the honest reporting of disciplinary matters, overnight or weekend permission. in order to support student success at next schools. • Four units: Upon the student accumulating a fourth attendance unit in a given term, generally ATTENDANCE AND DECORUM UNITS the student will meet with the assistant dean of At Williston, the system of student accountability students, the student’s parents will be notified, for upholding daily expectations of attendance and and the student will be required to serve a three- behavior is based on units. There are two distinct hour Saturday Night Consequence. Boarding stu- tracks for accumulating unit points: attendance and dents will be restricted to campus for the entire decorum. While accumulating a certain number of weekend and day students generally are asked units of either type will yield consequences, the types to leave campus immediately following their of units are accounted for separately. Students’ atten- Saturday Night Consequence for the remainder of dance units will be cleared to zero at the start of each the weekend. trimester. However, students will be held accountable • Five units: Upon the student accumulating a fifth

68 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook unit in a given term, they will receive a three- violations, tobacco violations, disrespectful language hour Saturday Night Consequence with the same or behavior, unauthorized use of a cell phone or other restrictions described above. electronic device, upon every third room confine- • Six to seven units: Upon the student accumu- ment issued in the dorm, and when conduct is other- lating a sixth attendance unit in a given term, wise deemed to be of an inappropriate nature. generally the student will meet with the dean of students, the student’s parents will be notified, Consequences for Decorum Units and the student will be issued a Dean’s Warning. In most situations, the consequence assessed to the For the sixth and seventh units, generally the student as a result of a decorum unit is directly relat- student will serve a three-hour Saturday Night ed to the type of violation or behavior, and may result Consequence and Clipboarding. in a warning, loss of use, loss of privileges or permis- • Eight units: If a student accumulates an eighth sions, Saturday Night Consequence, room confine- attendance unit in a given term, generally the ment, restriction, or some combination of the above. student’s parents will be notified, the student will meet with the dean of students, and the student The severity of the consequence assigned will gener- will be placed on probation. It should be expected ally increase as the number of units accrue, and will that the student will be suspended from school for generally be decided by the Dean’s Ofce in its sole some duration of time. discretion. It is our hope that through conversation Further accumulation of attendance units may result and consequences, the cited behavior will be cor- in additional disciplinary action, which may include a rected. However, if that is not the case, the following meeting with the Discipline Committee. are general guidelines in addition to the above-men- tioned consequences. • Two units: If a student accrues two decorum Note: As stated in the attendance section of this units based on similar acts in a given year, gen- handbook, the school may deny academic credit erally the student will serve a two-hour Saturday and/or a numerical grade to a student who miss- Night Consequence and have a loss of overnight es eight or more class meetings of any individual or weekend permissions. course in a trimester. • Three to four units: If a student accrues three or four decorum units, generally the student will serve a three-hour Saturday Night Consequence and have Decorum Units a loss of overnight or weekend permissions. Williston students are expected to maintain a level of • Five units: If a student accrues five decorum decorum in speech, dress, and behavior that is illus- units, generally the student will receive a Dean’s trative of the community’s core values of respect for Warning, the student’s parents will be notified, self and others, responsibility and trust, and honesty and the student will be assigned a three-hour and integrity. Due to the nature of decorum units, Saturday Night Consequence, have a loss of over- they accumulate during the course of the year and do night or weekend permissions, and be required to not reset at the beginning of each trimester. be on campus for Clipboarding. • Six units: If the student receives a sixth decorum Students accumulate decorum units for dress code unit, the student will be placed on probation. It

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!69 should be expected that the student will be sus- including suspension or dismissal, in response to pended from school for some duration of time. inappropriate conduct occurring of campus, during Further accumulation of decorum units may result in the school year, as well as on vacations and during additional disciplinary action, which may include a the summer. meeting with the Discipline Committee. PARENT INVOLVEMENT Students Who Are Arrested Disciplinary matters and student issues are handled If a student is arrested, the school may take disci- directly by teachers, administrators, and appropriate plinary action or other steps that it deems appropri- staf. If a student is having an issue with another ate, in its sole discretion. student, and the two cannot resolve the situation, parents should not attempt to deal with the other BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS WHILE student directly about the matter. Such issues are AWAY FROM CAMPUS best resolved, when appropriate, through a school Students are expected to remember that they repre- administrator. Please speak to the appropriate school sent the school community at all times, both on and administrator for guidance with any questions away from campus. While it is not the school’s inten- about contacting another student or parent about a tion to monitor students in all of their of-campus school-related problem. activities, the school may take disciplinary action,

HEALTH AND WELLNESS SERVICES

HEALTH AND WELLNESS STAFF • Medical Director: Peter Elsea, MD At Williston, we believe that physical and emotional • Director of Health and Wellness Services: Amber wellness is an integral part of academic, professional, Mish, RN and personal success and fulfillment. We encourage • Director of Psychological Counseling Services: our entire campus community to aspire toward high Sara Schiefelin, LICSW levels of personal health, well-being, and satisfaction. HEALTH AND WELLNESS SERVICES Nursing and counseling staf are available to assist HOURS OF OPERATION students as they deal with illness, injuries, and other • Monday to Friday: 7:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. and health, wellness, social, and emotional matters while 6–8:30 p.m. at school. • Class Saturday: 8 a.m.–12:30 p.m. • Non-class Saturday: 11 a.m.–noon Health and Wellness Services is stafed by registered • Sunday: 11 a.m.–noon and 6–8:30 p.m. nurses. When Health and Wellness Services is not open, a nurse is always on call. To reach the nurse APPOINTMENTS outside of routine clinic hours for urgent care, call Visits to the Health and Wellness Center are for (413) 529-3911. For life threatening emergencies, students only. Nursing staf visits do not require call 911. an appointment and are at no cost to the student.

70 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook Drop-In hours are during the regular ofce hours. Student Portal website; there is a link to this site on Appointments to see the school physician or school your Veracross Parent Portal. counselors are booked through the Health and Wellness Center and are at no cost to the student. Parents are asked to provide the school with informa- Appointments with other therapists or consultants tion about their children’s physical, emotional, and will be fee-based. Medical appointments with the mental health. In part, this information is obtained school physician are billed to the student’s health in- to comply with state law; it is also needed to keep the surance company. school well-informed of the health of all students. The school is sensitive to the privacy of this informa- ORIENTATION tion and is committed to protecting the confidentiali- Health and Wellness Services staf orient students at ty of students and their families by restricting the use the beginning of each school year to services available of and access to this information. at the Health and Wellness Services and in the local community. IMMUNIZATION AND COMMUNICABLE ILLNESS HEALTH AND WELLNESS EDUCATION Immunization Together with the Deans Ofce, Health and Wellness In accordance with Massachusetts law, the school Services partners with other departments and faculty requires all students to provide proof of up-to-date to ofer health and wellness programs on a variety immunizations or a certificate of exemption before of topics to students throughout the year. Individual attending school. Proof of immunization should topics are tailored to grade and age level. The goal is be recorded on a Certificate of Immunization form to provide all of our students with easy access to qual- and signed by a medical professional. A student ity health information and provide a safe, supportive with a qualified religious and/or medical exemption environment for all inquiries. must provide the school with an Immunization Exemption Certification pursuant to state law. A HEALTH RECORDS, REGULATIONS, AND Medical Immunization Exemption Certification must ACCESS be signed by a medical professional, attesting that Health information, including an annual physical the student is exempt from a specific vaccine(s) be- exam, immunization records, and consent for med- cause of medical reasons. A Religious Immunization ical treatment, is required for every student and Exemption Certification must be signed by the stu- must be submitted each year by August 1. Please dent’s parent or guardian (and by students age 18 and note that Williston does not conduct the health older), attesting that immunization conflicts with the examination that Massachusetts provides for public tenets of their religious beliefs. Students who do not school students. All student records are maintained provide proof of up-to-date immunizations or qualify online through Magnus Health Student Medical for an exemption will not be permitted to attend the Record and kept in a confidential file at Health school or participate in any school activities. and Wellness Services. All information on Magnus Health SMR privacy can be found at http://mag- Students who are exempt from the state’s immu- nushealth.com/privacy-and-security/. All required nization requirements for religious or medical health forms are accessible on Magnus Health reasons and who have provided the school with an

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!71 Immunization Exemption Certification may be pro- HEALTH INSURANCE hibited from attending school and participating in While attending Williston, students are required to school activities in the event of an outbreak of a vac- be enrolled in a comprehensive U.S.-based health cine-preventable disease. Students excluded from the insurance plan that covers both routine and emer- school for this reason will not be permitted to return gency care in the Western Massachusetts cities of until (1) the danger of the outbreak has passed; (2) Easthampton, Southampton, Holyoke, Northampton, the student becomes ill with the disease and com- and Springfield. A copy of a current medical insur- pletely recovers; or (3) the student is immunized. ance card and a prescription card must be kept on file In determining whether there is an outbreak of a at Health and Wellness Services. Changes in insur- vaccine-preventable disease, the school may consult ance information must be updated immediately by with appropriate medical professionals and/or the contacting Health and Wellness Services. All families Massachusetts Department of Public Health. are financially responsible for health care expenses not covered by insurance, and we recommend that Communicable Illness students have access to a credit card to pay for such The school may exclude from school any student who expenses. has a communicable illness or has been exposed to an infected person if the school determines, in its sole The school ofers a ten-month comprehensive insur- discretion, that such exclusion is appropriate for the ance plan for students. Information for this insurance welfare of the student who is excluded from school plan is available on the school’s website. and/or the welfare of other students or employees at the school. In reaching the decision to exclude MEDICATIONS AT SCHOOL a student from the school, the school may consult In an efort to keep the Williston community healthy with appropriate medical professionals and/or the and safe, the school has specific guidelines regarding Massachusetts Department of Public Health. prescription and over-the-counter medications. We are committed to helping students have safe, daily Health and Safety Communications Regarding access to their medications. Students must submit a Communicable Illnesses physician-verified and parent-authorized list of medi- If and when appropriate, the school will disseminate cations and register their medications with the health information to students and families regarding cam- services staf, in a pharmacy or manufacturer-labeled pus health and safety issues through regular internal container, at the beginning of every academic year. communication channels. For example, the school This information is listed on the required health may provide families with information about the na- forms and includes the name of each medication, rea- ture and spread of communicable illnesses, including son for use, and daily dose with prescription-provider symptoms and signs to watch for, as well as required name, address, telephone, and fax numbers. Please steps to be taken in the event of an epidemic or out- request the pharmacy to provide separate bottles for break. Of course, the school encourages all parents school and home administration. Any medications and guardians to contact medical professionals with left after one week of school closure in June will be any questions or concerns about communicable ill- destroyed. It is the sole responsibility of the parent/ nesses or immunization issues. guardian to notify Health and Wellness Services with respect to any medication(s), dosing revisions, and

72 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook health status changes. Any student who is found to guardian, and will be stored at the Health and be in possession of prescription medication that is Wellness Ofce. If students need to keep medications not a current prescription in the student’s own name, refrigerated in their rooms, they may use only a mi- or that is not currently registered at Health and cro-fridge (11 by 8 inches), unless they are proctors. Wellness Services may face disciplinary action. Students may purchase a micro-fridge through the school or on their own. Some students may need Medication is administered by Health and Wellness a local health care provider to assume prescriptive Services in accordance with applicable law. All authority and responsibility for certain medications. prescription drugs and medications are held and Families are encouraged to contact the nursing staf dispensed at the Health and Wellness Services during as soon as such need is anticipated, and consult regular clinic hours. Medications will be dispensed with their insurance company regarding contracted by Health Services staf or by school personnel who providers in the Western Massachusetts areas of have been designated and trained in accordance with Easthampton, Northampton, Holyoke, Springfield, the school’s policy regarding delegation of prescrip- Hadley, and Amherst. Health and Wellness Services tion medication administration. When presenting is available to work with each student and family to at Health and Wellness Services for medication, stu- discuss concerns or needs regarding medication ship- dents will generally be seen individually and may be ments and refrigeration. observed while taking their medication. This proce- dure is intended to help ensure each student’s privacy FOOD ALLERGIES and safety. Students are encouraged to inform Health and Wellness Services and Dining Services of all food SELF-ADMINISTRATION AND allergies. MEDICATION MANAGEMENT Permission for a student to self-administer medica- The school is committed to providing a safe and tion at school may be granted in certain limited situ- inclusive environment for all students. Parents of stu- ations. Self-administration privileges are granted on dents who have severe allergies with the potential for a case-by-case basis and decisions may take into ac- developing anaphylaxis must meet with the director count the particular needs of the student, the type of of Health and Wellness Services to develop an action medication to be self-administered, and any other in- plan prior to the start of the school year. formation that the school deems relevant. Misuse of the privilege to self-administer medication will result Successful management of food allergies is the jointly in immediate revocation of that privilege. The school held responsibility of the school, families, and stu- will not assume any responsibility for students not in dent with the allergy. Education encompasses the en- compliance with its medication self-administration tire school community, including employees, parents, policy. Parents and students should contact Health and students. It focuses on preventive strategies, the and Wellness Services for more information about the symptoms of anaphylaxis in individual students, and school’s self-administration medication policy. emergency care. We recognize that the management of food allergies is a developmental process, and we A duplicate dose of any life-saving medication must strive to take reasonable measures to protect our be brought to campus and provided by the parent/ younger students, while recognizing that students

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!73 must learn to assume increasing responsibility for their dorm rooms or sent home. The parent will be their own health and safety as they mature. contacted by phone. It will be at the discretion of the school nurse whether to check other students. The goal is to provide a safe and respectful environ- ment for all students, to educate the school commu- In all cases where nits have been found, the student nity about the nature of food allergies, and to provide must be treated before returning to the classroom or support and encouragement as students develop to other activities where the student will be in close good decision-making skills and learn the critical proximity with others. The school nurse must evalu- lessons of managing their allergies. We hope to foster ate the student and the school nurse will determine, self-confidence, self-respect, and self-advocacy in our in his/her sole discretion, whether the student is free students, and to support families as they help their of nits and thus able to resume classroom and ex- children learn to take control of their allergies. For tra-curricular activities. students without allergies, our goals are to increase their awareness of food allergies, and to encourage REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH the development of empathy and the skills needed The reproductive health needs of adolescents include for them to become supportive allies for their peers. general wellness concerns such as good health care As a school, we will have succeeded in our mission and dealing with issues of friendship, romantic at- of educating our students if they graduate with the tachments, and intimacy, as well as specific concerns skills and confidence to advocate for their health and about pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. physical safety. The school does not condone intimate sexual contact ASTHMA MANAGEMENT between teenagers, but we understand that the ado- Parents of students with asthma should contact lescent developmental urge to express sexual feelings the director of Health and Wellness Services prior may result in such contact. We, therefore, recognize to the start of school to discuss an asthma manage- that there may be occasions that necessitate counsel- ment plan. ing and care in areas specifically related to sexuality.

HEAD LICE With acknowledgment that adolescents should be It is the position of the American Academy of free to schedule gynecological exams, obtain non-pre- Pediatrics, the Harvard School of Public Policy, and scription and prescription prevention for both sexu- the National Association of School Nurses that the ally transmitted diseases and contraception, arrange management of head lice should not disrupt the edu- pregnancy tests, and seek counseling from clinics and cational process. Lice are not a major health problem physicians, Health and Wellness Services will ofer since they do not transmit diseases or cause perma- the above services, providing students with the choice nent problems. Nonetheless, the school understands of being able to talk with those health professionals the unpleasantness of the condition and the desirabil- whom they know and trust and who have students’ ity of limiting its spread across the school community. health and well-being as their foremost concern. The school therefore has a “no nit” policy. EMERGENCIES Students with any nits may be asked to remain in The medical director and counseling staf maintain

74 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook regular ofce hours at Health and Wellness Services Should the school determine, in its sole discretion, and are available on call for emergencies. The nurse that it is in the best interest of a student to obtain ser- on duty will make appointments for students should vices of a psychologist or other mental health profes- the need arise. Serious illnesses or injuries are treated sional not employed by the school, a school counselor at local hospitals. may assist in a referral for such services.

PARENTAL NOTIFICATION The school counselors are also available to talk with We appreciate that it may be difcult, for students parents on issues regarding their children, and hold and parents alike, for a student to be ill or injured monthly parent discussion groups on various topics. when away from home. Generally parents are notified when a student is ill or injured, has an appointment OTHER COUNSELING with the school physician, is treated at the hospital, The school maintains a list of referrals for education- or stays overnight at Health and Wellness Services al, intellectual, psychological, or speech and language for medical reasons. It is the responsibility of each evaluations, should parents/guardians wish to consult parent to provide the school with current phone with the school regarding such an evaluation. Parents numbers, email addresses, and emergency contact in- who need guidance in this area are encouraged to formation to facilitate this communication. All other consult the director of Academic Support or the notifications are at the discretion of the medical staf, director of Psychological Counseling Services. It is and may take into consideration a student’s wish to recommended that the results of such evaluations be make confidential appointments in accordance with shared with school personnel so that appropriate rec- applicable law. We encourage our students to seek the ommendations can be implemented. counsel of the trusted adults in their own families. CONFIDENTIALITY BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES Members of the school community commit them- School counselors are available to speak with students selves to maintaining appropriate professional tact to help facilitate educational, social, and emotional and discretion with regard to confidential informa- support, on an as-needed basis. In addition, the school tion they receive. However, confidential information may require a student to see a school counselor. may be disclosed to school employees, outside profes- sionals, law enforcement ofcers, parent/guardians, School counselors are part of a team of faculty mem- or others when there is a compelling reason for doing bers and administrators at Williston who collaborate so, including, without limitation, in cases of health with respect to students’ educational experience at and safety emergencies (when students or others are the school. As part of this collaborative efort, school in imminent danger of harm); when there is concern counselors may share information obtained from about an individual’s ability to function academically, parents and students on a “need-to-know” basis with emotionally, physically, and/or mentally within the other employees of the school and a student’s parents. school environment; or when legal requirements de- The school counselors are not engaged as students’ mand that confidential information be revealed. private therapists. Please refer to the confidentiality policy (below) for more information.

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!75 SUBSTANCE ABUSE TESTING AND dition, as determined by objective medical evalu- TREATMENT REFERRALS ation. A student’s family may request such a leave If faculty members observe indications that a student at the recommendation of medical professionals. may be involved in substance use, there will likely be Additionally, if in the school’s judgment, a student is administrative intervention with required evaluation exhibiting symptoms that make the student unable and follow-up treatment. If a student discloses sub- to participate in required academic or extracurricu- stance use to a faculty member, the faculty member lar activities without imposing an undue burden on may report such information to the Dean’s Ofce, the school’s resources, the school may recommend which may, in turn, initiate a formal intervention. and require that the student be evaluated and sub- sequently placed on medical leave. Discussion of a A student who violates the school’s alcohol or drug leave of absence will take place either in person or rules is, in most cases, required to have an evaluation via a phone conversation and may include the dean of by a trained health professional. Parents may have students, the director of health and wellness services, the evaluation performed at home during a period the parents and the student, and, if appropriate, the of suspension, or it can be arranged through Health director of psychological counseling services. Such and Wellness Services. The evaluation generally must discussion should begin under any of the following be completed within two weeks of the student’s re- circumstances: turn to campus. The director of Health and Wellness • when mental health or physical symptoms are Services, in consultation with the evaluator, generally preventing the student from functioning academi- will oversee implementation of the recommenda- cally and/or socially; tions. The director or Health and Wellness Services • when a physical or mental health condition is may communicate with parent(s) throughout the seriously interfering with a student’s attendance procedure. at school; • when a student behaves in ways that can be con- MEDICAL LEAVE sidered self-destructive or dangerous to others; or Understanding the nature and range of conditions • when a student is not engaged in treatment that that arise with teenagers, the treatment for certain the school has made a condition of attendance, medical and psychological conditions and behaviors after the student has been evaluated by medical must occur outside the boarding school setting. and/or mental health professionals, who have Severe depression, anxiety, eating disorders, suicidal deemed such treatment appropriate ideation or attempts, self-injury, and substance abuse • when continued participation in the school pro- disorders are examples of such conditions that gen- gram would place the student at risk of serious erally require more treatment, support, supervision, emotional or physical risk/harm. and guidance than the school can provide. In some situations, these conditions and behaviors may also This initial discussion of a medical leave should es- create undue disruption in the community and resi- tablish for school personnel what steps the family dential life of the school. is taking to ensure that the student is well enough to participate fully in life at the school, and should A student may take a medical leave in the case of establish for the family what further steps the serious illness, bodily injury, or mental health con- school may take if the problem does not improve.

76 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook The student’s advisor generally will consult with the the student to complete the course. To return to student’s teachers, senior administrators, the school school from a medical leave, a student must provide nurse and the school counselor, when appropriate, in a thorough, written professional evaluation of the continuing to monitor the situation. Decisions about student’s current mental health or medical condition granting or requiring a medical leave, or reinstating a from the physician, psychiatrist, or other professional student who has been on leave, rest with the dean of who treated the student during the medical leave. In students, academic dean, director of health and well- most cases, the school will also require a verbal con- ness services, and, when appropriate, the director of sultation with the professional evaluating the student psychological counseling services. They will be guid- for readiness to return. The school’s decision about ed by the principal goal of a medical leave: to give the reinstatement will depend on its confidence that the student the opportunity to regain health and thereby student will be able to function in school without function consistently, productively, and safely at the unduly taxing the school’s support and supervisory school. In the absence of a treatment plan that meets resources. The school may require additional evalu- these needs, in the view of these school personnel, ation by a physician or mental health consultant of the school may require the student to withdraw. its choosing. The guiding principle of re-admission from a medical leave is the school’s confidence that A medical leave agreement will include provisions the student can return safely, and that the student’s for the student’s return to school. While a student return will not compromise the student’s continued on leave is excused from attending class, the student recovery, interfere with the school’s ability to serve must make arrangements with the teachers involved other students’ needs, or place an undue burden on for making up missed material, either while on leave the school. As a corollary to this principle, a student (if possible) or upon return. While the school will whom the school determines can safely participate in strive to minimize academic disruption, the school the regular school day may nevertheless be restricted may require that a student drop a course or courses from participation in overnight field trips or other if a prolonged absence will make it impossible for residential-style school activity.

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

ACADEMIC ACCOMMODATIONS access to all of the school’s programs and services, The school does not discriminate against qualified ap- in accordance with applicable law. For students who plicants on the basis of learning disabilities that may need additional support or curricular adjustments, be reasonably accommodated. The school will discuss the school requires documentation indicating that with families of applicants with known learning dis- the student’s disability substantially limits a major life abilities whether the school will be able to ofer their activity, including learning. Students who present the children the appropriate accommodations to help school with appropriate documentation of disability them be successful at the school. will be granted accommodations that are supported by the documentation and considered reasonable The school is committed to ensuring that qualified in this educational setting. Any adjustments to the students with disabilities are provided with equal academic program would be made through an inter-

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!77 active process between the student, the academic ties periods, and evening study hall hours) support coordinator, the academic dean, the teacher, • support from the Writing Center (see below) and the advisor. We expect all students to meet our • support from the Math Resource Center departmental and diploma requirements. Exceptions (see below) are rarely approved but may be given if the student Students without testing on file may be referred for has appropriate documentation. Requests should be testing or services in the school’s discretion. discussed with the academic dean and the academic support coordinator. Tier 2 Students with testing on file are referred to the Even after supportive services and accommodations Academic Support Ofce. Students referred for Tier have been put in place, a student may still not be able 2 services may also receive Tier 1 support. Strategy to fulfill the school’s academic requirements satisfac- documents are provided and shared with teachers torily. In such instances, the academic support coor- to help with the provision of appropriate educa- dinator, the academic dean, or the student’s advisor tional strategies generally, such as extended time. may notify the student’s parents that the accommo- Accommodations often include: dations put into place may not be sufcient to ensure • provision of class notes the student’s success at the school. At that time, the • breaking down long term assignments academic support coordinator, the student (if age • use of a computer for writing appropriate), and the student’s parents will discuss • support using or creating outlines or organizers whether it is in the best interest of the student and for writing the school for the student to continue at the school. • reduced course load for a trimester If there is a disagreement, the school will decide, in Students may meet with an academic support staf its sole discretion, whether to issue a re-enrollment member in one or two group sessions (approximately agreement to the student. 1 hour) or in one or two individual sessions (approx- imately 30 minutes) per week given the student’s ACADEMIC SUPPORT PLANS needs and the availability of academic support staf. The academic support coordinator works with advi- Academic support staf provide assistance in orga- sors, teachers, and the academic dean to coordinate nization, structuring assignments, and studying for appropriate levels of academic support for students. tests and quizzes. Students will be referred to their Williston ofers three tiers of support to students: teachers for content area support.

Tier 1 Additionally, boarding students may attend the All students may receive the following types of Laboratory for Academic Success during evening support: study hall hours (all nights before school days). See • individual or group meetings with teachers out- below for more information. side of class • tutoring by qualified students who volunteer their All academic support plans are implemented with the services through Areté, a student group that orga- ultimate aim of increasing independence and respon- nizes peer tutoring on campus (most members are sibility for the student’s own learning. seniors, and available during the class day, activi-

78 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook Tier 3 (Paid Tutoring Services) LABORATORY FOR ACADEMIC SUCCESS Any student who seeks subject-area academic support In this dedicated study area open during evening may request a tutor. These tutors are paid for by the study hall, faculty supervise and support boarding family, but are vetted by Williston and can work with students. The low teacher-student ratio allows every students on campus before or after school or during student to get customized attention and assistance students’ free periods. Parents may request a tutor by to help them succeed. The Laboratory for Academic contacting the academic support coordinator. Success schedule for each student will be discussed on an individual basis and is fee based. OUTSIDE TESTING/EVALUATION If a student experiences academic difculties indicat- THE MATH RESOURCE CENTER ing that outside testing or evaluation of the student The Math Resource Center ofers assistance by stu- is appropriate, the school can help parents explore dent tutors who are selected and overseen by a mem- potential resources and may make the necessary ber of the Mathematics Department. The center has arrangements for such testing or evaluation. When regularly scheduled hours each school day and in the parents arrange for such outside testing or evaluation, evenings. the school requests and strongly recommends that the testing results be shared with the school, in order THE WRITING CENTER to enhance the school’s ability to assist the student. The Writing Center, located on the second floor of The school maintains a list of referrals for education- the Clapp Library, ofers one-on-one instruction al, intellectual, psychological, or speech and language for students who wish to improve their writing evaluations, should parents/ guardians wish to con- skills. Stafed by several members of the English sult with the school regarding such an evaluation. Department and a well-trained group of student tu- Parents who need guidance in this area are encour- tors, the Writing Center, through a collaborative and aged to consult the academic support coordinator or supportive process, strives to improve each student as Health and Wellness Services. It is recommended that a writer, rather than focusing exclusively on the paper the results of such evaluations be shared with school at hand. The staf is experienced in working with a personnel so that appropriate recommendations can wide variety of writing assignments from the school’s be implemented. academic departments.

PARENTAL COMPORTMENT AND RE-ENROLLMENT

PARENTAL COMPORTMENT AND of communication, mutual respect, and a common SUPPORT FOR SCHOOL POLICIES vision of the goals to be achieved. At Williston, we believe that a positive relationship between the school and a student’s parents or guard- The school understands and appreciates that parents ians is essential to the fulfillment of the school’s and guardians may employ diferent means to meet mission. We recognize that efective relationships the expectations and responsibilities expressed in this are characterized by clearly defined responsibilities, policy. Nevertheless, the school at all times may dis- a shared commitment to collaboration, open lines miss a student whose parent, guardian, family mem-

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!79 ber, or other adult involved with the student, in the munication, collaboration, and mutual respect. sole judgment of the school, fails to comply with this • exhibit positive attitudes toward the school. or any other policy or procedure of the school, engag- • treat each member of the community with re- es in conduct either on or of the school’s property spect, assume good will, and maintain a collabora- that could undermine the authority of the school’s tive approach when conflicts and challenges arise. administration, and/or otherwise behaves in a man- • help build a positive school environment by not ner that is unbecoming of a member of the school participating in or tolerating gossip. community. The school also may refuse re-enrollment • maintain tact and discretion with regard to con- of a student if the school, in its sole discretion, be- fidential information. In cases when students or lieves the actions of a parent or guardian on or of the others are in imminent danger of harm, when school’s property make a positive, constructive rela- there is a compelling reason for doing so, or when tionship impossible, or otherwise may interfere with legal requirements demand that confidential in- the school’s accomplishment of its mission and/or formation must be revealed, information may be educational goals. To assist in creating the most efec- disclosed to the head of school, administrators, tive relationship, the school expects that parents will: outside professionals, or law enforcement ofcers. • share in the school’s vision. • respect the school’s responsibility to do what is • support the mission of the school. best for the entire community, while recognizing • understand and support the school’s philosophy, the needs of an individual student. policies, and procedures. • seek to resolve problems and secure information • support the school’s disciplinary process, and through appropriate channels (i.e., teacher/advi- understand that the school’s authority in such sor/counselor, head of school, in that order). matters is final. • acknowledge the value of the educational ex- • be supportive of the school’s commitment to a perience at the school by making regular and diverse and inclusive community. timely school attendance a priority, scheduling • acknowledge that the payment of tuition is an non-emergency appointments outside the class- investment in the education of the student, not an room day. investment of ownership in the school. • share with the school any religious, cultural, • support the school’s emphasis on sustainable medical, or personal information that the school practices. may need to best serve students and the school • be aware of the student’s online activities and use community. of computers, television, and video games. • understand and support the school’s technology • encourage integrity and civility in the student. policies. • be a role model, especially when it comes to be- havior at school and at athletic events. RE-ENROLLMENT • encourage the student’s participation in events Re-enrollment at the school is not automatic. The that promote high standards and actively discour- school reviews the citizenship and academic standing age participation in events that can lead to illegal of all students in June and may deny re-enrollment to or unwise behavior. any student whose behavior, attitude, or disciplinary • participate in the establishment of a home/school record is judged to be detrimental to the welfare of and school community relationship built on com- the school community, regardless of whether or not

80 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook a specific school rule has been violated or academic can be made and the school determines that such a requirement has been met. A student is promoted recommendation is in the best interest of the student to the next grade when the student has satisfactorily and/or the school community. The head of school, in met the expectations of the current grade, when the the head’s sole discretion, makes the final decision school feels it can continue to meet the student’s as to whether a student will be invited to return for needs, and when the behavior and comportment another year. of the student and family are consistent with the school’s policies. This difcult conclusion is reached only after careful consideration. While parents are obviously involved Holding Enrollment Agreements in this process, the school will make the ultimate Prior to disseminating enrollment agreements for the decision, and will assist, if possible, in the process of upcoming year, the faculty may review the academic locating an appropriate alternative school. and citizenship standing of all students. At this time, students who are on academic probation, who are on FAMILY LEAVE disciplinary probation, and/or who, in the opinion of Families who take a leave of absence from the school the school, are not living up to the standards of the of a year or more are generally expected to apply to school community, may have their enrollment agree- the school for readmission. The student will be con- ment for the following school year withheld until the sidered on a space-available basis, as well as within end-of-year review. the context and competition of the applicant pool for the student’s grade level. Strength of the applicant’s Re-Admission Policy file is important, including a strong finish to the The school administration reviews the academic and student’s last year at the school, as well as a strong re- behavioral records of students at the end of each cord of academic performance and citizenship while school year. A decision to re-enroll a student and to the student is away. Ultimately, the school cannot subsequently forward a re-enrollment agreement predict the number of openings or competitiveness of to the parents is based upon a student’s academic applicant pools for specific grade levels, and given the record, efort, attitude, and behavior throughout the school’s high enrollment, there is never a guarantee prior year, and upon the willingness of the parents of readmission for the following year. Applications for to accept and exemplify their responsibility in the admission, from both current and new families, must partnership of education. On occasion, re-enroll- be submitted by January 15. Enrollment decisions, ment agreements are held until later (usually April regardless of a family’s prior or current relationship or May), or are not extended at all, when the school to the school, are always made in the school’s sole decides that an appropriate decision about placement discretion.

TRAVEL DATES 2018-2019

For the complete calendar for the 2018-19 academic year, see www.williston.com/calendar

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!81 MIDDLE SCHOOL SECTION

Welcome, Middle School families! We have included the Middle School section to further highlight topics specific to the Middle School, such as information on our academic day, the advising program, and contact in- formation. While the Middle School section serves as a valuable resource, we ask that you and your child read and discuss the entire Student and Parent Handbook, as there are many topics that pertain to Middle School students and families, including information on school rules and discipline.

Communication is the key to our success as a community and the success of your student. We use email and Veracross as our primary modes of communication with families. In Veracross (see page 3), you will find school resources such as helpful calendars and schedules. You will also find documents specific to the Middle School. As always, if you ever need additional clarification, or have questions about how to access this information, please do not hesitate to call.

Coming to a new school is a transition for everyone. We hope that you quickly feel welcome and a part of our community. The Middle School is a special place, designed to provide opportunities for students to grow as learners, to take risks and try new things, and to challenge themselves artistically, athletically, socially, and aca- demically. It is our privilege to share this important time with your children and with you. We hope you have a wonderful year.

All My Best,

Jennifer H. Fulcher Director of the Middle School

ACADEMICS remember that the safety of our community is our The Academic Day priority, and we ask that families always use their best The first academic period begins at 8:30 a.m. Classes judgment in traveling to and from campus. end at 3:00 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. On Wednesday, the last class period ends at If a student uses Van Pool to get to school (see page 12:25 p.m. All students are welcome to stay for lunch 38), please note that the service does not run if the on Wednesday. public schools in Longmeadow or Hadley are closed due to weather. School Delays/Cancellations Because Williston is a boarding school, please re- Weather-related cancellations and schedule changes member that Upper School classes and the Afternoon will be sent to parents and students by text message. Program are rarely canceled due to weather. The In addition, this information will be posted on the Middle School, however, does cancel classes for school’s website and on local television channels weather-related reasons. However, it is important to WGGB and WWLP.

82 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook The Afternoon Program utes of homework a night per subject. Eighth graders The Afternoon Program is an integral part of should expect approximately 30 minutes per subject. Williston life, whether a student is a member of one The school pays careful attention to the transition of the numerous athletic teams competing inter- for new students and asks for any feedback from you scholastically, participates in something of a more about difculties with homework. Homework, as recreational nature, or joins one of the Arts Intensives review or in preparation for the next day’s class, is an in music, studio art, or theater. In our experience, essential part of a student’s education. If a student being part of an athletic team or any of the Afternoon is struggling in any way, or is taking longer than Program oferings at Williston is a wonderful social expected to complete homework, this is important experience and provides an opportunity to learn information for us to know. Please do not hesitate to something new, connect with students from all communicate your concerns to your child’s advisor or grades, and meet new faculty. Seventh graders may, to the director of the Middle School. but are not required to participate in the Afternoon Program. Eighth graders are required to participate in Grade Reports two of the three seasons. The Middle School operates on trimesters and reports academic comments three times a year, at the mid-tri- Practice times vary from sport to sport. At the begin- mester mark. Grades are given at the end of each tri- ning of each week, the Athletic Department will post mester with comments only for classes in which there (online and on the display monitor outside of the has been a significant change. cage) a copy of the schedule of events for the coming week noting the time of practices, contests, meals, Advising departures, method of transportation, and estimated Each Middle School student is assigned a faculty time of return. You may check game schedules online advisor for the year. Typically, students will change at www.williston.com/athletics. advisors when they move from 7th to 8th grade. Advisory groups consist of eight to ten students. The Afterschool Study Hall student’s advisor will serve as a point person for both A Middle School faculty member runs a study hall the student and the family. If a parent has any ques- from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. It is our hope that this time tions or concerns, the advisor is often the best person provides an opportunity for students to get extra help to contact. Parents are welcome to contact individual and/or complete the homework for a few subjects. teachers directly, but the advisor will be able to find out any information and should have a good overall In light of their very busy days, we try to help stu- picture of the student’s day-to-day experience. The dents balance the need for down time with the small size of the Middle School enables teachers to demands of homework. Students who are not partici- stay in very close contact with parents. pating in the Afternoon Program are free to go home after the academic day, or they need to remain in the In addition to discussing students’ academic, athletic, Middle School to study. and social life at Williston, each advisory group will help plan one social event during the school year. Homework The students generate ideas for the event and choose Seventh graders will receive approximately 20 min- a charity that will benefit from the proceeds earned

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!83 through a small admission fee. These events are typi- Waiting Areas cally held on Friday evenings. Middle School students have access to the Athletic Center, the library, and the student center in the FACILITIES AND SERVICES Reed Campus Center. There is no direct adult su- Dining Commons pervision in these areas, but the same behavioral The Birch Dining Commons at Ford Hall ofers many standards are expected as when students are in the dining choices. Middle School students have lunch Middle School building. Students who need to wait in the dining commons, usually sitting in the Cox for a ride home often wait in one of these locations. Family Room. Middle School students are allowed to stay for dinner if they are required to be on campus Computers for a school event. Every Middle School student will be issued a Surface Pro computer. Wireless internet access is available Health and Wellness Services throughout the campus. Students have access to Middle School students use Health and Wellness school printers. All Middle School students are ex- Services as needed. We ask that students let a teacher pected to adhere to the school’s AUP (see page 19). or administrator know if they are feeling ill or need medical attention. Occasionally, a student will call or COMMUNITY EXPECTATIONS AND email home without the school knowing, and we try RULES to stress to students that we are responsible for them We at Williston consider certain values and principles while they are at school and need to know if they are central to our daily life. Each of us must be able to not feeling well. If a Middle School student goes to rely upon members of our community to understand Health and Wellness Services, the registered nurse on and adhere to these values and to act in accordance duty will call us in the Middle School. If the student with them. Key concepts that guide our community needs more care or needs to go home, one of the are respect for self and others, responsibility and nurses will contact the parents directly. trust, and honor and integrity. The specific rules and guidelines described in this handbook are derived Lost and Found from our core values, and we take them very serious- Lost and found items are always plentiful in the ly. The director of the Middle School and the Middle Middle School. Texts and notebooks left around the School dean are responsible for overseeing and adju- building are collected every afternoon before the dicating all social, disciplinary, and academic matters building closes. Clothing is usually kept until the end that arise among students in the Middle School. of the trimester. We give clothing marked with a name directly to the student. Other items are displayed Attendance and Absences frequently and then donated to an organization at the Please call the assistant to the director of the Middle end of the trimester. Students tend to lose items with School at (413) 529-3230 by 8:30 a.m. if your child frequency at the dining commons, in the campus cen- will be late or absent for the day. Both lateness and ter, and at the Athletic Center. Administrators in each absences afect a student’s academic experience, so of these locations also have a lost and found. We ask we ask that you try to drop of students at school by that all items be labeled and that any expensive items 8:15 a.m. We also ask that families try to schedule be left at home; we do not have locks on our lockers. outside appointments after the academic day.

84 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook Individual teachers have diferent policies for missed a consequence for violations of school expectations, class time or recurring lateness. Students are respon- dishonesty, and/or misconduct. Generally, the student sible for any late work within a time frame worked and the parent will meet with the director of the out by the student and the teacher. Early departure or Middle School and set clear expectations for future late return for a weekend or vacation that results in behavior and growth for the student. In addition, the missed classes should be approved by the director of director may issue a director’s probation as a result the Middle School. Accommodations may be made to of repeated units, a major ofense, or significant get work to the student prior to any excused absence, misconduct. A director’s probation is a significant so letting the school know with ample time is helpful. disciplinary action, resulting from repetitive acts of misconduct or a single egregious act, which results in Students are responsible for any missed work. It is a meeting with the director, the parents, and the stu- the student’s responsibility to obtain class notes from dent to discuss the consequences of the behavior(s). classmates and assignments from teachers or from Students on director’s probation are subject to review Veracross. Students should be fully prepared to par- regarding re-enrollment. Academic probation occurs ticipate in the next class, including taking quizzes or when a student receives two D grades in a marking tests and handing in papers, unless they have missed period. After two trimesters on academic probation multiple classes as a result of illness, or there are or the accumulation of two director’s probations, a extenuating circumstances and the student requires student’s continuation at Williston is in question, and (and has requested) extra help from the teacher. discussed. Generally, in these situations, there have Advisors will support students as they make up been several conversations with parents and the di- missed assignments. rector to address the student’s behaviors and to strate- gize about his or her growth and development. Disciplinary Procedures and Actions All students in grades 7 through 12 are expected to COMMUNICATIONS adhere to the behavioral guidelines as previously Contacting Your Child described in this Student and Parent Handbook. The If you need to reach your child during the academic consequences for violations are also similar in nature. day, please call the assistant to the director of the Middle School at (413) 529-3230. The assistant to the The Middle School uses a unit system for minor director will get a message directly to the student or, disciplinary infractions. These may include, but are if unable to speak directly with the student, will leave not limited to, dress code violations, gum chewing, a message in the student’s locker. For non-urgent classroom behavior, and improper use of cell phones matters that can be addressed after the academic or other electronic devices during the academic day. day, parents may also leave a voicemail if the student When units accumulate, the director of the Middle carries a cell phone to school, which the student may School and/or the Middle School dean will have con- check after the school day. versations with parents and students. Conversations about behavior happen frequently with students, and there is an emphasis placed on being honest in all aspects of a student’s life. The director of the Middle School may place a student on director’s warning as

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!85 MIDDLE SCHOOL HOURS Afternoon Program Drop-of Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday Monday–Friday ...... 7:30–8:15 a.m. (practice times vary) ...... 3:45–5:30 p.m.

Academic day begins Wednesday (game times vary) ...... 1–5 p.m. Monday–Friday ...... 8:30 a.m. Saturday (game times vary) Academic day ends Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday ...... 3 p.m. MIDDLE SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION Jennifer H. Fulcher, Director Wednesday ...... 12:25 p.m. 413-529-3229 | [email protected]

Middle School building closes Linda Kretchmar, Assistant to the Director Monday–Friday ...... 4 p.m. 413-529-3230 | [email protected]

Andrew Syfu, Dean 413-529-3250 | [email protected]

APPENDIX A: PROHIBITION AGAINST HAZING

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts requires sec- tions 18 and 19, shall mean any conduct or method ondary schools to provide students and families en- of initiation into any student organization, whether rolled at the school with a copy of the state law defin- on public or private property, which willfully or reck- ing and prohibiting hazing. All members of the school lessly endangers the physical or mental health of any community are reminded that these laws include a re- student or other person. Such conduct shall include quirement to report promptly any alleged incidents of whipping, beating, branding, forced calisthenics, hazing. Students are briefed on this matter during as- exposure to the weather, forced consumption of any semblies and team meetings. Massachusetts General food, liquor, beverage, drug or other substance, or Laws, Chapter 269, §§17-19 are provided below. any other brutal treatment or forced physical activity which is likely to adversely afect the physical health SECTION 17 or safety of any such student or other person, or Whoever is a principal organizer or participant in the which subjects such student or other person to ex- crime of hazing, as defined herein, shall be punished treme mental stress, including extended deprivation by a fine of not more than $3,000 or by imprison- of sleep or rest or extended isolation. ment in a house of correction for not more than one year, or both such fine and imprisonment. Notwithstanding any other provisions of this section to the contrary, consent shall not be available as a de- The term “hazing’” as used in this section and in sec- fense to any prosecution under this action.

86 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook SECTION 18 provisions of this section and sections 17 and 18. Whoever knows that another person is the victim of hazing as defined in section 17 and is at the scene of Each institution of secondary education and each such crime shall, to the extent that such person can public or private institution of post-secondary edu- do so without danger or peril to herself or others, cation shall, at least annually, before or at the start report such crime to an appropriate law enforcement of enrollment, deliver to each person who enrolls as ofcial as soon as reasonably practicable. Whoever a full-time student in such institution a copy of this fails to report such crime shall be punished by a fine section and sections 17 and 18. of not more than $1,000.

SECTION 19 Each institution of secondary education and each public and private institution of post-secondary ed- ucation shall issue to every student group, student team, or student organization which is part of such institution or is recognized by the institution or per- mitted by the institution to use its name or facilities or is known by the institution to exist as an unafli- ated student group, student team, or student organi- zation, a copy of this section and sections 17 and 18; provided, however, that an institution’s compliance with this section’s requirements that an institution issue copies of this section and sections 17 and 18 to unafliated student groups, teams, or organizations shall not constitute evidence of the institution’s rec- ognition or endorsement of said unafliated student groups, teams, or organizations.

Each such group, team, or organization shall distrib- ute a copy of this section and sections 17 and 18 to each of its members, plebes, pledges, or applicants for membership. It shall be the duty of each such group, team, or organization, acting through its designated ofcer, to deliver annually to the institution an attest- ed acknowledgment stating that such group, team, or organization has received a copy of this section and said sections 17 and 18, that each of its members, plebes, pledges, or applicants has received a copy of sections 17 and 18, and that such group, team, or or- ganization understands and agrees to comply with the

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!87 APPENDIX B: AFTERNOON PROGRAM OPTIONS

AFTERNOON PROGRAM OPTIONS Athletics • All Upper School students are required to partici- • Boys Cross Country pate all three trimesters • Girls Cross Country • twelfth grade must choose at least one group • Football (boys) option • Field Hockey (girls) • Ninth, tenth, and eleventh grades must choose at • Boys Soccer least two group options • Girls Soccer • Eighth grade must participate for two trimesters • Girls Volleyball in two diferent group options • Boys Water Polo • Seventh grade does not have to participate • Horseback Riding (approximate cost $1,200) • All new Upper School students must choose a • Team Manager group option in the fall • Athletic Performance Students wishing to pursue any special project or exemption, including an outside sport, sport spe- Community cialization, academic, or art-related endeavor, or • Robotics any other type of project, must apply to the Special Project Committee at least one week prior to the INDEPENDENT OPTIONS start of an Afternoon Program trimester. The Special Arts Project Committee includes representatives from the • Music Intensive Academic Ofce, Athletic Department, Dean’s Ofce, • Visual Arts Intensive and Visual and Performing Arts Department. Some options have limited space available. Community • Children’s Center Assistant (ages 15 and up) Athletic Performance (AP) is limited to eleventh and twelfth graders for one trimester per school year. WINTER TRIMESTER Twelfth graders who choose AP must play on a team in at least one other trimester. Eleventh graders who GROUP OPTIONS choose AP must play on a team in both remaining Arts trimesters. • Dance—Intermediate-Advanced Level • Dance—Musical Theater Workshop FALL TRIMESTER • Tech Theater—Costume Shop • Tech Theater—Scene Shop GROUP OPTIONS • Theater Improv Arts • Dance (by audition) Athletics • Fall Theater Production (Upper School only) • Girls Basketball • Tech Theater—Scene Shop • Boys Basketball • Girls Ice Hockey

88 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook • Boys Ice Hockey Athletics • Girls Squash • Baseball (boys) • Boys Squash • Boys Golf (approximate cost $175) • Girls Swimming & Diving • Girls Golf (approximate cost $175) • Boys Swimming & Diving • Boys Lacrosse • Girls Ski Team (approximate cost $400) • Girls Lacrosse • Boys Ski Team (approximate cost $400) • Softball (girls) • Wrestling • Boys Tennis • Team Manager • Girls Tennis • Athletic Performance • Boys Track & Field • Girls Track & Field COMMUNITY • Girls Water Polo • Robotics • Boys Ultimate • Girls Ultimate INDEPENDENT OPTIONS • Horseback Riding (approximate cost $1,200) Arts • Team Manager • Music Intensive • Athletic Performance • Visual Arts Intensive COMMUNITY Athletics • Robotics • Fitness & Wellness (limited to eleventh and twelfth graders) INDEPENDENT OPTIONS Arts COMMUNITY • Music Intensive • Children’s Center Assistant (ages 15 and up) • Visual Arts Intensive

SPRING TRIMESTER COMMUNITY • Children’s Center Assistant (ages 15 and up) GROUP OPTIONS Arts • Dance (by audition) • Tech Theater—Costume Shop • Tech Theater—Scene Shop

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!89 FACILITY HOURS

BIRCH DINING COMMONS LIBRARY Monday-Friday • Monday–Thursday ...... 8 a.m.–9:45 p.m. • Breakfast ...... 7:15–8:20 a.m. • Friday before non-class Saturday .. 8 a.m.–5 p.m. • Continental Breakfast ...... 8:20–8:45 a.m. • Friday before class Saturday .... 8 a.m.–9:45 p.m. • Lunch ...... 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. • Class Saturday ...... 8 a.m.–12:30 p.m. • Dinner ...... 5:15–7 p.m. • Non-class Saturday ...... Closed • Sunday ...... 1–5 p.m. Class Saturday 6:30–9:45 p.m. • Breakfast ...... 7:15–8:20 a.m. • Lunch ...... 11 a.m.–1 p.m. SCHOOLHOUSE • Dinner ...... 5:15–7:00 p.m. • Monday–Friday ...... 8 a.m.–4 p.m. • Class Saturday ...... 8 a.m.–noon Non-Class Saturday • Continental Breakfast ...... 8:30–9:30 a.m. REED CAMPUS CENTER • Brunch ...... 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. • Monday-Thursday ...... 7:30 a.m.–9:50 p.m. • Dinner ...... 5:15–7:00 p.m. • Friday before non-class Saturday ...... 7:30 a.m.–10:50 p.m. Sunday • Friday before class Saturday ...... • Continental Breakfast ...... 8:30–9:30 a.m...... 7:30 a.m.–9:50 p.m. • Brunch ...... 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. • Class Saturday ...... 7:30 a.m.–10:50 p.m. • Dinner ...... 5:15–6:30 p.m. • Non-class Saturday ...... 1–10:50 p.m. • Sunday ...... 1–9:50 p.m. HEALTH AND WELLNESS SERVICES • Monday–Friday ...... 7:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. STU-BOP SNACK BAR 6–8:30 p.m. • Weekdays except Wednesday ....7:30 a.m.–4 p.m. • Class Saturday ...... 8 a.m.–12:30 p.m. • Wednesday ...... 7:30 a.m.–1 p.m. • Non-class Saturday ...... 11 a.m.–noon • Class Saturday ...... 8 a.m.–noon • Sunday ...... 11 a.m.–noon 6–8:30 p.m. CAMPUS STORE At other times, an on-call nurse is available at • Weekdays except Wednesday ....8 a.m.–3:30 p.m. (413) 529-3911. • Wednesday ...... 8 a.m.–1 p.m.

ATHLETIC CENTER Pool access only as scheduled. A certified lifeguard must be on duty at all times. • Workout Room ...... 6:15 a.m.–7:50 p.m. • Trainer’s Room ...... 7:30 a.m.–6:30 p.m. • Squash Courts ...... 7:30 a.m.–7:30 p.m.

90 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!91 CLASS SCHEDULES

Upper School Daily Schedule BLUE WEEK

Lunch: Math, English, History, & Arts classes that meet during the lunch period eat during L1 and go to class from 11:40-12:40. All other classes eat during L2 and go to class from 11:10-12:10. H Block: *All AP & Lab classes meet for 80 minutes during the combined period. For all other classes, teachers will be present during H period and may require student attendance.

92 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook GREEN WEEK

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!93 Middle School Daily Schedule Blue Week

94 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook Green Week

2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook!95 CAMPUS BOUNDARIES

96 2018–19 Student and Parent Handbook WILLISTON NORTHAMPTON SCHOOL 19 Payson Avenue, Easthampton, ma 01027 t: 413.529.3000 f: 413.527.9494 www.williston.com