School Handbook

 

 

Dag Hammarskjöld Middle School   

106 Pond Hill Road

Wallingford, CT 06492

 

Main Office:  (203) 294-3700

Fax:  (203) 294-3749

Website: https://dhms.wallingford.k12.ct.us/

Instagram: dag_hammarskjold_ms

 

August 2025

 

Dear Students and Families,

 

Welcome to the 2025-2026 school year at Dag Hammarskjold Middle School! We are beyond excited to begin the year together and we are looking forward to a successful year in support of the academic and social-emotional growth of all of our students. We also want to extend a warm welcome to our students and families who are new to our school community this year, including our incoming sixth graders from elementary school and those who are new to the Wallingford community in general.

 

At Dag, we prioritize a safe, healthy, and nurturing environment where all individuals feel supported and a sense of belonging. Our staff sets high standards and expectations for academic growth and achievement. Your partnership is sincerely appreciated in staying involved and connected to our school to support the well-being of all members of our school community. 

 

Our students are most successful when there is a strong partnership between the school and families. Communication is vital in ensuring the success of each and every one of our students. We ask that you please review this handbook at the beginning of the year and throughout the school year in order to have a comprehensive understanding of our policies, procedures, routines, and expectations. We thank you in advance for your support in reinforcing these expectations with your child, and we look forward to our collaboration this year to provide all of our students with a positive middle school experience.

 

Sincerely,

 

Frank Jawidzik

Principal

 

Dag Mission Statement:

Dag Hammarskjold Middle School creates a caring and stimulating environment that develops self-esteem and mutual respect while fostering the intellectual, social, and emotional growth of each student.

 

 

Principal: Frank Jawidzik

 

Interim Assistant Principal: Dan Wostbrock

 

School Counselors

 

6th Grade: Mr. Paul Santagata              (203) 294-3712 

7th Grade: Mrs. Susan Hudson    (203) 294-3713             

8th Grade:  Mrs. Michelle DiMauro      (203) 294-3711                 

 

Social Worker

 

Ms. Sydney Olson                            (203) 294-3718           

 

School Psychologist

 

Ms. Kate Cianchetti                                         (203) 294-3719

 

School Nurse

 

Ms. Rachel Sicignano                                      (203) 294-3715

 

MISSION AND VISION STATEMENTS OF WALLINGFORD PUBLIC SCHOOLS

1. The mission of the Wallingford Public Schools is to inspire through innovative and engaging experiences that lead all learners to pursue and discover their personal best.

 

2. Vision Statement:  Wallingford Public Schools, in partnership with our families and community, will provide a safe, healthy, and supportive environment that ignites an enduring passion for excellence in every learner, so that each becomes a life-long contributor to the local, national, and global communities.

 

PREFACE

The material covered within this student handbook is intended as a method of communicating to students and parents/guardians regarding general district information, rules and procedures and is not intended to either enlarge or diminish any Board policy, administrative regulation or negotiated agreement. Material contained herein may therefore be superseded by such Board policy, administrative regulation or negotiated agreement. Any information contained in this handbook is subject to unilateral revision or elimination from time-to-time without notice. Consult the district’s website or the individual school’s website for any significant changes.

 

This booklet is written for our students and their parents/guardians. It contains required and useful information. Because it cannot be as personal a communication as we would like, we address students not directly as “you” but rather as “the student,” “students,” or “children.” Likewise, the term “the student’s parent” may refer to the parent, legal guardian, or other person who has agreed to assume responsibility for the student. Both students and parents/guardians need to be familiar with the District’s Student Code of Conduct and school safety and security plans which are intended to promote school safety and an atmosphere conducive for learning.

 

The Student Handbook is designed to be in harmony with Board policy. Please be aware that the handbook is updated yearly, while policy adoption and revision may occur throughout the year. Changes in policy that affect portions of this Handbook will be made available to students and parents through newsletters, web pages, and other communications. For a full listing of BOE policies in greater detail, please visit our district website Policy Page:  

Wallingford Board of Education Policies and Regulations.

  

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY and NON-DISCRIMINATION

Each student is encouraged to develop and achieve individual educational goals. The district will provide every student with equal educational opportunities regardless of race, color, creed, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, religion, age, economic status, marital status, or disability. No student will be excluded on such basis from participating in or having access to any course offerings, student athletics, counseling services, employment assistance, extracurricular activities or other school resources. Programs and activities shall be accessible and usable by individuals with disabilities as prescribed by law.

 

Mrs. Aimee Turner, Assistant Superintendent of Special Education, is the designated district compliance officer, who will coordinate compliance with the nondiscrimination requirements of Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

 

EQUALITY OF OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT

District schools recognize and accept the need to prepare students to live and work productively in an increasingly diverse society. This is an integral part of the school system’s commitment to offer an educational program of excellence, which includes teaching students awareness and understanding of the diverse cultures and heritages that form our society.

 

The school will not tolerate student behavior which insults, degrades or stereotypes any race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, physical or mental condition or ethnic group.

 

ADMISSION/PLACEMENT

In accordance with Connecticut General Statute 10-186, the Board of Education shall provide education for all persons, residing in the District,  five years of age and older, having attained age five on or before the first day of September of any school year,  and under twenty-one (age twenty-two for special education students) who is not a graduate of a high school or vocational school, except as provided in Connecticut General Statutes 10-233c and 10-233d.

Additionally, according to Connecticut General Statute 10-76d (b2), special education will be provided for children who have attained the age of three and who have been identified as being in need of special education, and whose educational potential will be irreparably diminished without special education. If a special education student is being considered for an exception, the Planning and Placement Team (PPT) will make a recommendation to the administrator in charge of special education.

Parents and those who have the control of children five years of age and over and under eighteen years of age, are obligated by Connecticut law to require their children to attend public day school or its equivalent in the district in which such child resides, unless such child is a high school graduate or the parent or person having control of such child is able to show that the child is elsewhere receiving equivalent instruction in the studies taught in the public schools.  Students under age eighteen are subject to mandatory attendance laws unless they are at least seventeen and their parent/guardian, or other person having control of the child, consents to such child's removal from school. The parent or person shall exercise this option by personally appearing at the school district office to sign a withdrawal form. Such withdrawal form shall include an attestation from a guidance counselor, school counselor, or school administrator of the school that this district has provided the parent or person with information on the educational opportunities options available in the school system and in the community, and the parent or guardian that the child will be enrolled in an adult education program upon the child's withdrawal from school.

AIDS CURRICULUM

It is the policy of the Board of Education to provide during the school day, planned, ongoing, systematic instruction on Acquired Immune Deficiencies Syndrome (AIDS). Parents who wish to have their child excused from such instruction shall communicate this request to the principal.

 

AMERICAN WITH DISABILITIES ACT AND SECTION 504 OF THE REHABILITATION ACT OF 1973

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 ensures support for individuals with disabilities. Individuals with disabilities are provided a free and appropriate education (FAPE), and are accommodated and employed without discrimination related to their disabilities.

 

It is the intent of the District to provide a free and appropriate public education to each Section 504/ADA qualified and eligible student with a disability within its jurisdiction, as defined in 28 CFR, Parts 35 and 36, of the Amendments to Americans with Disabilities Act, Title II and Title III.For a full description please review the specific policy on the district website:

5145.4: Students and Section 504 Of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 And Title II Of The Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990 

 

ANTI-IDLING POLICY FOR CARS / SERVICE VEHICLES

The Board of Education has established an anti-idling policy pertaining to cars. Drivers are requested to turn off their engines while waiting in their cars for more than three minutes to pick up students or adults, weather permitting.

 

ASBESTOS

Legislation requires all school buildings to be reevaluated to determine if asbestos is present and if it poses a significant health hazard to the building’s occupants. The District has on file plans showing the location of asbestos in each building and measures undertaken to comply with regulations to maintain a safe school environment. Requests to review these plans may be made in the school office.

 

ATTENDANCE

Connecticut state law requires parents to make sure that their children between the ages of 5 to 18 attend school regularly. Daily attendance is a key factor in student success, thus any absence from school is an educational loss to the student. These rules are designed to minimize student absenteeism while providing students the opportunity to make up school work missed due to a legitimate absence. Students are required to attend school on a regular basis.  Absence means an excused absence or an unexcused absence.

 

A student is considered to be “in attendance” if present at his/her assigned school, or an activity sponsored by the school, such as a field trip, for at least half of the regular school day. A student serving an out-of-school suspension or an expulsion will always be considered absent.  For a full description please review the specific policy on the district website:

5113: Attendance, Truancy And Chronic Absenteeism - 

Policy & Regulation & FORM A, FORM B, FORM C, FORM D

 

Absence

Every attempt should be made to confine necessary appointments to after school, weekends and vacation periods. When a parent determines that an absence is necessary, parents are requested to contact the school between 7:00 A.M. and 8:00 A.M. on the day of the absence by telephoning the school.

 

If it is not possible to telephone the school on the day of absence, the parent is requested to send a written excuse to the school on the date of the student’s return. The student should submit the excuse directly to the office. Parents should contact the principal in order to take advantage of special services such as the collection of homework assignments for the student who must be out several days.

 

Excused Absence

A student’s absence from school shall be considered “excused” only if a written documentation of the reason for such absence has been submitted within ten (10) school days of the student’s return to school and meets the following criteria:

A. For absences one through nine, a student’s absences from school are considered “excused” when the student’s parent/guardian approves such absence and submits appropriate documentation to school officials. (Define required documentation.)

B. Students receive an excused absence for the tenth absences and all absences thereafter, when they are absent from school for the following reasons:

1.   Student illness, verified by a licensed medical professional, regardless of the length of the absence.

2. Students’ observance of a religious holiday.

3. Death in the student’s family or other emergency beyond the control of the student’s family.

4. Court appearances which are mandated. (Documentation required)

5. The lack of transportation that is normally provided by the district other than the one the student attends.

6. Extraordinary educational opportunities pre-approved by District administration and in accordance with Connecticut State Department of Education guidelines.

7. Additional 10 days for children of military service members.

 

A phone call with no written follow-up will automatically be coded as an unexcused absence. The responsibility for makeup of work lies with the student, not the teacher. 

 

Unexcused Absence

Unexcused absences are those which do not fall under any of the excused absences. 

 

Absences which are the result of school or district disciplinary action are excluded from the definitions.

 

Although the school will maintain records and keep parents informed within the limit of its capability, parents and students are expected to keep accurate attendance records and compare them to report cards when issued. Parents are also encouraged to contact the teachers, guidance counselors and administrators to get help in verifying attendance and attendance records at any time during the year.

 

Chronic Absenteeism

A student whose total number of absences at anytime during a school year is equal to or greater than the percent of the total number of days that such student has been enrolled at such school during the school year is considered to be a “chronically absent child,” Such a student will be subject to review by the attendance review team and the chronic absenteeism prevention and intervention plan developed by the State Department of Education. The District will also collect and analyze data on student attendance, truancy and chronic absenteeism for students with disabilities.

 

Leaving School Grounds/Release of Students from School

Under no circumstances may a student leave the school or school grounds during school hours without permission from his/her parents or guardians and school administration. In the event it is necessary for a student to be dismissed early, a parent or guardian should send a written request to the office. Telephone requests for early dismissal of a student shall be honored only if the caller can be positively identified as the student’s parent or guardian. Children of single-parent families will be released only upon the request of the parent whom the court holds directly responsible for the child and who is identified as such in the school records, unless prior arrangements have been made with the school. Arrangements should be made with the building administrator on the parent or guardian to pick up the student in the school office. No student may be released in the custody of any individual, not the parent or guardian of the student, unless the individual’s name appears on the list maintained by the school’s principal as authorized to obtain the release of students.

 

If someone other than a parent/guardian picks up the student, the person appearing in the school office should bring a note of identification from the parent or guardian. The Board of Education does not condone/approve students leaving a school campus in third-party ride sharing vehicles; especially such service (Uber, Lyft) whose own policies explicitly prohibit minors from using them unless accompanied by an adult.

 

Tardiness

Students who are not in their homeroom/classroom by 8:00 A.M. are considered tardy and must report directly to the office. A student discovered on school grounds who has not signed in at the office will also be considered tardy. A student who is repeatedly tardy may be considered truant. Students may be subject to disciplinary action including in-school suspension if the principal determines that tardiness is excessive.

Truancy

Truancy is defined by statute as absence(s) from school without the knowledge or approval of parents/guardians and/or school officials. A student age five to eighteen inclusive with 4 (four) unexcused absences in a rolling 30 day period  or 10 (ten) unexcused absences in a school year will be considered a truant. 

Parents have the responsibility to assist school officials in remedying and preventing truancy. School staff are mandated by the state to report excessive absences or patterns of concern.

 

AUTOMATED PHONE MESSAGING SYSTEMS

The Wallingford Public School system uses an automated phone messaging system which gives school administrators the ability to easily contact parents/guardians immediately of news that needs to be communicated. Administrators have the ability to send personally prerecorded messages to the entire school community, or they can tailor transmissions to smaller groups, when needed. The system allows the District to program up to three numbers for each parent/guardian of a District student. (home phone, work phone, cell). Such calls are permitted without prior consent if limited to notice of emergency items, such as weather-related closures, issues of student safety and health, and threats of imminent danger. Parental consent will be sought when the messaging system will be used for other informational items.

 

BACKPACKS AND BOOK BAGS

Should students find it useful to carry book bags, duffel bags and/or knapsacks, students are allowed to carry/use these items to and from school only. Students do not need to carry all of their books and notebooks during the entire school day. Lockers should be used. At most, a string bag may be used during the school day. Safety and comfort of both students and adults must be considered.

 

BICYCLES

Students riding a bicycle to school are responsible to park and secure it properly at a designated area. For the best bicycle security, students should lock and chain the bicycle to one of the provided bicycle racks. The school district is not responsible for stolen or damaged bicycles.

 

BOARD OF EDUCATION

Board members are unpaid elected public officials with the responsibility for governance of the school district. The members of the Wallingford Board of Education are: 

Chairperson: Dr. Marla Roscoe

Vice-Chairperson: Mr. Rajan Doering

Secretary: Mrs. Jennifer Passaretti

    Members: Mrs. Caroline Raynis, Dr. Maureen Reed, Mrs. Donna Regan, Mrs. Melanie Rossacci, Mr. Ray Ross, Mr. Michael Votto

 

In order to perform its duties in an open and public manner and in accordance with state law, the Wallingford  Board of Education holds regular business meetings on the fourth Monday of each month at 6:30 PM in the Town Council Chambers. Parents, students and other community members are encouraged to attend.

 

BOARD OF EDUCATION POLICY

Board of Education policies are available on the district’s website. The policies are subject to modifications by the Board at any time.

 

BREATHALYZERS

The safety of students is a primary concern. Students who consume alcohol and/or are under the influence of alcohol at school or at any school function pose a danger to themselves and others. In order to protect student safety, school administrators may utilize a breathalyzer to determine whether a student is under the influence of alcohol. Breathalyzer testing will be used only after personal observation that establishes reasonable cause that a student has been drinking.

 

BUS CONDUCT

School transportation privileges are extended to students conditional upon their satisfactory behavior on the bus. Students may be suspended from transportation services for unsatisfactory conduct while awaiting or receiving transportation to and from school which endangers persons or property or violates a Board policy or administrative regulation.

 

CAFETERIA

All eating is to be done in the cafeteria. Food is not permitted elsewhere in the building. Rules of cleanliness are to be observed at all times. Misconduct in the cafeteria may be cause for receiving an assigned seat or forfeiting the right to eat in that location or such other disciplinary action deemed appropriate for the misconduct.

 

The District participates in the School Breakfast Program and the National School Lunch Program and offers to students nutritionally balanced meals daily. Free and reduced price lunches are available based on financial need. Information on this program can be obtained from the District/School website.

 

The District complies with the professional standards for school nutrition personnel who manage and operate the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs.

 

CHANNELS OF COMMUNICATIONS

If there is a question about a student’s classes or work in school, it is best to first contact the person who is closest to the situation. In most cases this is the teacher. The proper channeling of concerns regarding instruction, discipline or learning materials is (1) teacher, (2) principal, (3) superintendent, (4) board of education.

 

CHEATING/PLAGIARISM (Academic Dishonesty)

Students are expected to pursue their school work with integrity and honesty. Cheating and plagiarism demonstrates a lack of integrity and character. That is inconsistent with District goals and values. All forms of cheating and plagiarism, including by electronic means, are not acceptable. The misrepresentation by students of homework, class work, tests, reports, or other assignments as if they were entirely their own work shall be considered forms of cheating and/or plagiarism. Consequences of cheating and/or plagiarism shall be academic in nature unless repeated incidents require disciplinary action. Consequences for cheating will take into account the grade level of the student and the severity of the misrepresentation.

 

CHILD ABUSE, NEGLECT AND SEXUAL ASSAULT

All school employees, including teachers, superintendents, administrators, coaches of intramural or interscholastic athletics, paraprofessionals and other professional school staff including guidance counselors, school counselors, paraprofessionals, social workers, psychologists, licensed nurses, physicians, licensed behavior analysts, and substitute teachers are obligated by law (C.G.S. 17a-101) to report suspected child abuse, neglect, or if a child is placed in imminent danger of serious harm or sexual assault by a school employee to the Connecticut State Department of Children and Families Services. Specific procedures governing the reporting of abuse and neglect are in effect, and staff receive training in their use, as required by state law.

 

Reporting of child abuse, neglect and sexual assault by a school employee is a responsibility which is taken seriously. If there is any doubt about reporting suspected abuse, neglect or a sexual assault a report will be made. The school will work with the parents and appropriate social agencies in all cases.

 

Child abuse is defined as any physical injury inflicted by other than accidental means or injuries which are not in keeping with the explanation given for their cause. Improper treatment such as malnutrition, sexual molestation, deprivation of necessities, emotional abuse, cruel punishment or neglect are also considered child abuse.

 

The Board of Education will post in each school the telephone number of the Department of Children and Families’ child abuse hotline, Careline, and the Internet web address that provides information about the Careline in a conspicuous location frequented by students. Such posting shall be in various languages appropriate for the students enrolled in the school.

 

CHILDREN IN FOSTER CARE

The District collaborates with state and local child welfare agencies to ensure school stability for children in foster care. A child in foster care must remain in his/her school of origin if it is determined to be in the child’s best interest. Transportation will be arranged as required. The District’s Liaison for Homeless Students is Mrs. Aimee Turner and is also the point of contact person for the education of children in foster care.

 

COMPUTER RESOURCES

The District utilizes computer technology to broaden instruction and to prepare students for a computerized society. Use of these resources is restricted to students working under a teacher’s supervision and for approved purposes only. Students and parents will be asked to sign a user agreement regarding appropriate use of these resources. Violations of this agreement may result in withdrawal of privileges and other disciplinary action.

 

Students and parents should be aware that e-mail communications, using district computers, are not private and may be monitored by staff. Students may not access social media sites using District equipment, while on District property, or at a District sponsored activity unless the posting is approved by a teacher. 

 

The District reserves the right to monitor, inspect, copy, review and store at any time and without prior notice any and all usage of the computer network and Internet access and any and all information transmitted or received in connection with such usage. All such information files shall be and remain the property of the School District and no user shall have any expectation of privacy regarding such material.

 

Federal law requires the district to place filtering devices on school computers to block entry to visual depictions that are obscene, pornographic, harmful or inappropriate for students as defined in the Children’s Internet Protection Act and as determined by the Superintendent or his/her designee.

 

CONDUCT

Students are responsible for conducting themselves properly in a responsible manner appropriate to their age and level of maturity. They must accept responsibility for misbehavior and engage with school staff to identify how a different choice of action could result in a better outcome. The district has authority over students during the regular school day and while going to and from school on district transportation. This jurisdiction includes any school-related activity, regardless of time or location, and any off campus school-related misconduct, regardless of time or location.

 

Dangerous Weapons and Instruments

No guns, knives or any other objects, including martial arts weapons and facsimiles of weapons, capable of threatening or causing injury or death may be brought onto school grounds. Any object used to cause injury will be considered a weapon. Violators will be subject to arrest and prosecution, as well as, appropriate disciplinary action. Any student found to possess a weapon on school grounds or during a school-activity will be expelled from school.

 

An expelled student may apply for early readmission to school. Such readmission is at the discretion of the Board of Education (unless the Board has delegated authority for readmission decisions to the Superintendent.) The Board or Superintendent, as appropriate, may condition such readmission on specified criteria.

 

Dress Code

Student dress may be regulated and students are encouraged to dress in clothing appropriate to the school situation. Restrictions on freedom of expression may be applied whenever the mode of dress is unsafe, disruptive to the educational process or contrary to law. Administrators will use reasonableness and discretion when determining the appropriateness of attire. The school staff will enforce the dress code in a consistent manner that does not reinforce or increase marginalization or oppression of any group based on race, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religion, cultural observance, household income or body type/size. Enforcement of the dress code will be gender neutral.

 

Any school dress which impairs safety or increases the risk of injury to self or others, causes discomfort to others (e.g., uncleanliness, malodorousness, inappropriate language), causes distraction or disruption of the learning environment, advertises or advocates the use of alcohol or drugs, pornography, or is libelous or inherently contains unreasonable potential to upset and hurt others is prohibited.

 

Smoking

Students shall not possess nor smoke or use tobacco products or e-cigarettes or vapor product devices on all school property both inside and outside, or at any school-related or school-sanctioned activity, on or off school property as provided by state and federal law.

 

Substance Abuse

The school prohibits the manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession or use of alcohol or controlled substances on school grounds or during school activities. Any student in violation of this will be subject to the following disciplinary actions:

 

In addition to the prohibition pertaining to alcohol, drugs, tobacco and inhalants, the Board of Education prohibits the use of performance-enhancing drugs, including anabolic steroids and food supplements, including Creatine, by students involved in school-related athletics or any co-curricular or extracurricular school activity or program, other than use for a valid medical purpose as documented by a physician.

 

Substance abuse or distribution of drugs and/or drug paraphernalia including alcohol may indicate serious, underlying problems. Every effort will be made to offer student assistance, including early identification, referral for treatment to private or community agencies and aftercare support.

 

Students are prohibited from possessing, using, selling, delivering, manufacturing, or being under the influence of any substance containing cannabidiol (CBD) or tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), regardless of whether it constitutes a controlled substance under federal laws.

 

Disciplinary procedures will be administered with the best interests of the student, school population and community in mind and with due consideration of the rights of students. However, consideration must be given to the fact that substance abuse is illegal and subject to criminal prosecution. Unauthorized possession, distribution, sale or consumption of dangerous drugs, narcotics or alcoholic beverages may result in a recommendation for expulsion.

 

Students are encouraged to consult with teachers, administrators and other professional staff on substance abuse problems. A staff member who is contacted by a student regarding a drug or alcohol problem may elect to keep that information confidential and not disclose it to any other person in accordance with state law. However, the student will be encouraged at the earliest appropriate time to seek help from parents or guardians.

 

As required by statute, instruction will be provided regarding the “knowledge, skills and attitudes required to understand and avoid the effects of alcohol, of nicotine, of tobacco, and of drugs.”

 

CONNECTICUT SCHOOL CLIMATE

Bullying of a student by another student is prohibited. Such behavior is defined as unwanted and aggressive behavior that involves a real or perceived power imbalance.

 

Challenging behavior means behavior that negatively impacts school climate or interferes or is at risk of interfering with the learning or safety of a student or the safety of an employee.

 

The School Climate Specialist is responsible for taking a report of  “challenging” behaviors and investigating the complaint, implementing interventions including restorative practices, leading the school climate committee, and leading the implementation of the school improvement plan.  For a full description please review the specific policy on the district website:

5131.911: CT School Climate 

 

CONTACTING TEACHERS

Teachers may be contacted either through voicemail or email. A staff directory is available on each school’s website. Please allow teachers 24 hours, during the school week, to respond to your email /voicemail. Please be aware that District policy prevents teachers from discussing confidential information in an email correspondence.

 

CYBERBULLYING

The District’s computer network and the Internet, and the personal electronic devices of students, whether accessed on campus or off campus, during or after school hours, may not be used for the purpose of harassment. All forms of harassment over the Internet, commonly known as cyberbullying, are unacceptable, a violation of District policy and of the District’s acceptable computer use policy and procedures. Cyberbullying means any act of bullying through the use of the Internet, interactive and digital technologies, cellular mobile telephone or other mobile electronic devices or any electronic communications.

 

Cyberbullying includes, but is not limited to, such misuses of technology as harassing, teasing, intimidating, threatening, or terrorizing another person by sending or posting inappropriate and hurtful e-mail messages, instant messages, text messages, digital pictures or images, or website postings, including blogs. It is also recognized that the author (poster or sender) of the inappropriate material may be disguised or logged on as someone else.

 

Students and community members who believe they have been the victims of such misuses of technology as described, should not erase the offending material from the system. A copy of the material should be printed and brought to the attention of the Safe School Climate Specialist, the Principal or Director of Technology. All reports of cyberbullying will be investigated by the Safe School Climate Specialist.

 

In situations in which the cyberbullying originated from a non-school computer, but brought to the attention of school officials, any disciplinary action shall be based upon whether the conduct is determined to be severely disruptive of the educational process so that it markedly interrupts or severely impedes the day-to-day operation of school. Also, such conduct must be violative of a publicized school policy. Such conduct includes, but is not limited to, threats, or making a threat off school grounds, to kill or hurt a teacher or student.

 

Disciplinary action may include loss of computer privileges, detention, suspension or expulsion. A communicated threat or a hate crime will be reported to the police.

 

Students will be provided instruction about appropriate online behavior.

 

DEFIBRILLATORS IN SCHOOLS (AED’S)/SUDDEN CARDIAC ARREST

Each school will have (1) one automatic external defibrillator (AED) and (2) school personnel trained in AED operation and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The AED and trained personnel will be available during the school’s normal operational hours, at school-sponsored athletic events and practices on school grounds and at school-sponsored events not taking place during normal school operational hours. The school also has an emergency action response plan addressing the use of trained school personnel to respond to individuals experiencing sudden cardiac arrest or similar life threatening emergencies. Coaches, as required by law, review before beginning his/her assignment the State’s sudden cardiac awareness education plan. Parents of participating students will be provided with a copy of the State-adopted informed consent form authorizing their child to participate in the intramural or interscholastic athletics.

 

DISCIPLINE

A student who violates the district’s code of conduct shall be subject to disciplinary action. The district’s disciplinary actions may include using one or more discipline management techniques, such as a restorative justice model, detention, removal from class, removal to an alternative education program, in school suspension, out of school suspension, and expulsion. Disciplinary measures will be appropriate for the offense. In addition, when a student violates the law that student may be referred to legal authorities for prosecution. Students are subject to discipline, up to and including suspension and expulsion for misconduct, which is seriously disruptive of the educational process and violates publicized board of education policy even if such conduct occurs off-school property and during non-school time. The school district believes that exclusionary discipline practices (suspension, expulsion) limit students’ access to classroom instruction and fail to improve student outcomes and school climate. These practices will be used as a last resort. For a full description please review the specific policy on the district website:

5131: Student Discipline - Policy and Regulation

 

Detention

A student may be detained outside of school hours for not more than 1 hour on one or more days for violation of the code of conduct. The detention shall not begin, however, until the students’ parents have been notified of the reason for the detention (and can make arrangements for the student’s transportation on the day(s) of the detention).

 

Expulsion

A teacher may remove a student from class when the student deliberately causes a serious disruption to the teaching and learning process within the classroom. 

 

Prior to an expulsion hearing, parents will be given notice of at least five (5) business days before such hearing. It will contain information about the legal rights of the student and parent and information concerning legal services that are provided free of charge or at a reduced rate that are available locally and how to access such services shall be provided to the student and his/her parent or guardian. An attorney or other advocate may represent any student subject to expulsion proceedings. The parent/guardian of the student has the right to have the expulsion hearing postponed for up to one week to allow time to obtain representation, except that if an emergency exists, such hearings shall be held as soon as possible after the expulsion.

 

The Board of Education may expel a student in grades 3 through 12 inclusive, from school privileges if, after a full hearing, the Board finds that the conduct of the student to be both (1) a violation of a Board policy; and (2) either seriously disruptive of the educational process or endangering persons of property. Students who have been expelled for the first time may be eligible for an alternative educational program, as defined in accordance with State Board of Education standards.

 

Expulsion from school will result in the loss of all extra curricular and social privileges during the period of expulsion.

 

Students in grades kindergarten through grade 12 inclusive are subject to mandatory expulsion for the possession and/or use of weapons, including martial arts weapons, or other dangerous instruments in any school building, on school grounds, in any school vehicle, or at any school sponsored activity for a calendar year. A student in grades kindergarten through grade 12 inclusive, who offers illegal drugs for sale or distribution on or off school grounds is also cause for expulsion for a calendar year. The Board may modify the expulsion period on a case-by-case basis.

 

Whenever a student is expelled, notice of the expulsion and the conduct for which the student was expelled will be included on the student’s cumulative education record. The record will be expunged if the student graduates from high school and the expulsion was not for weapon possession and/or for the sale or distribution of illegal drugs.

 

Suspension

A teacher may remove a student from a class when the student deliberately causes serious disruption of the teaching and learning process within the classroom. School administrators will determine, using state guidelines, whether the suspension will be in-school or out-of-school.

 

The administration may suspend a student for infraction of school rules. Suspension is defined as an exclusion from school privileges for not more than ten (10) consecutive days, provided such exclusion shall not extend beyond the end of the school year in which suspension was imposed.

 

However, no student shall be suspended without an informal hearing before the building principal or his/her designee at which time the student shall be informed of the reasons for the disciplinary action and given an opportunity to explain the situation, unless circumstances surrounding the incident require immediate removal. In such instance the informal hearing will be held during the suspension.

 

Suspension from school will result in loss of extracurricular and social privileges during the period of suspension. 

 

Middle School Discipline Guidelines

 

DISTRIBUTION OF MATERIALS

Printed materials may be distributed to parents by students as a means of communications. All requests from groups or individuals to have students distribute materials to the community, with the exception of school-connected organizations, will be referred to the office of the superintendent to determine whether the request complies with school policy.

 

ELECTRONIC DEVICES AND GAMES (Electronic Devices, Cell Phones)

The school strives to maintain a safe and respectful learning environment while providing students with opportunities for reasonable access to cell phones and other electronic devices. This policy also recognizes the use of electronic devices for educational purposes with administrative permission or with teacher approval within the classroom. The possession and use of electronic devices at Wallingford Public Schools is a privilege and a responsibility, not a right. Inappropriate use will result in the loss of privileges.

Students are solely responsible for any electronic devices brought to school. Do not leave them unattended. The school is not responsible for lost, damaged or stolen devices.

Mobile devices cannot be used on school property without permission from a school staff member.

The devices are not allowed in classes, unless their use is part of the teacher’s lesson plan. Teachers have discretion concerning how the devices may be used for learning.

No recording, video or audio, or photographs may be taken in school unless it is part of a lesson and all appropriate privacy protections, such as contained in FERPA, are honored.

The sending, sharing, viewing or possessing pictures, emails or other material of a sexual nature in electronic or any other form on cell phones or other electronic devices is prohibited in the school setting.

 

EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSING INFORMATION

In the event school is closed because of bad weather or another emergency, announcements will be made on television and through Parent Square. Emergency closings will also be posted on the district's website.  

 

ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNERS (ELL)

Parents of English Learners participating in a language instructional program will be notified within 30 days of their child’s placement in the program. The notification will include an explanation of why, a description of the program, and the parent’s rights to remove their child from the English Learners program. In addition, the notification will explain how the program will help the child to develop academically, learn English and achieve the standards necessary for promotion.

 

Students not meeting the English mastery standard or demonstrating limited progress will be provided with additional language support services, which may include, but are not limited to, English as a Second Language program, summer school, after-school assistance, homework assistance and tutoring. Students after 30 months in a bilingual program will not be offered additional bilingual education.

 

EQUITY AND DIVERSITY

Students deserve a respectful learning environment in which their cultural, racial, and ethnic diversity is valued and contributes to successful academic outcomes. The school learning and work environment is enriched and improved by the contributions, perspectives, and the very presence of diverse participants.

 

EXEMPTION FROM INSTRUCTION

A student will be exempted from instruction on Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), Bilingual Education, or Family Life and Sex Education upon receipt of a written request for such exemption from his/her parent or guardian. In addition, a student will be excused from participating in, or observing animal dissections as part of classroom instruction upon a written request from the student’s parent or guardian. The student must complete an alternate assignment determined by the school.

 

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Athletics

Athletics, including e-sports, are considered an integral part of the school’s educational program. Whether participation is on the intramural, interscholastic, or class level, students have an opportunity to acquire qualities of fitness, self-discipline, and cooperation. 

 

Student athletes may not participate in any intramural or interscholastic activity unless the student athlete and his/her parent/guardian completes all necessary district paperwork. 

 

Student interscholastic activities, including e-sports, are governed by the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CIAC) regulations. Eligibility for participation is determined by ability and scholarship and is governed by state law as well as the regulations of the CIAC. Any student athlete who has not reported to school by noon will not be permitted to practice or play that afternoon or evening. Exceptions to this rule will be considered only if the player’s parent explains the unusual circumstances to the principal or designee.

 

Clubs and Performing Groups

Student clubs, performing groups, athletic teams and other extracurricular activities may establish rules of conduct for participants that may be stricter than those of students in general.  Please note: Sponsors of student clubs and performing groups may establish standards of behavior, including consequences for misbehavior, that are stricter than those for students in general.

 

Dances and Social Events

School dances may be scheduled periodically during the school year. Only legally enrolled students of this school may attend dances unless other arrangements have been made and approved by the administration. Students are expected to dress appropriately for all dances.

 

Standards of dress, admission costs, and other pertinent instructions for a particular dance will be announced prior to the dance.

 

Student Publications

The official student newspaper provides an instructional device in the teaching of writing and other journalistic skills. It also provides a forum for the opinion of students, school staff and members of the community, as well as to serve the entire school by reporting school activities.

 

The (newspaper advisor) shall have the primary responsibility of reviewing each article prior to its publication. The school principal or his/her designated representative other than the newspaper advisor may also review copy prior to its publication. 

 

FACILITIES

Certain areas of the school will be accessible to students before and after school for specific purposes. Students are expected to remain in the area in which their activity is scheduled to take place.

After dismissal and unless involved in a teacher/staff supervised activity, students are expected to leave the campus immediately.

 

FIELD TRIPS

Field trips may be scheduled for educational, cultural, or extracurricular purposes. Any student whose behavior is considered detrimental to the well-being of other students may be barred from participation by the principal. While on a trip, all students are considered to be “in” school. This means that conduct and dress standards will be appropriate for the field trip activity. The Board of Education strongly encourages all transportation of students to be on buses or other transportation vehicles which conform to the requirements of law and regulations of the State Department of Education. 

 

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

Students will not be denied the opportunity to participate in any class or school sponsored activity because of inability to pay for material fees, transportation costs, admission prices, or any other related expenses. Any student who needs financial assistance for school activities should contact a school counselor, teacher or administrator to request confidential help.

 

FIRE DRILLS AND EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

Fire drills are held at regular intervals as required by state law. Students must follow the exit directions posted in each classroom. A crisis response drill will be substituted for one of the required monthly school fire drills every three months. Such crisis response drill will be planned and conducted with the local law enforcement agency. Such crisis response drills will incorporate the basic protocols of lockdown, evacuation, and shelter-in-place responses.

 

Students are expected to follow the direction of teachers or others in charge quickly, quietly and in an orderly manner.

 

The signal for a fire drill is a constant blast on a special horn. When the alarm sounds, students are to proceed along the posted exit routes in a quick, quiet and calm manner. Students should not return to the building until the return signal is given.

 

FIRST AMENDMENT RIGHTS

The Wallingford Public Schools recognize that students have a right to bring into our schools, in a judicious manner governed by regulations, items for posting that are not considered obscene, libelous, disruptive, vulgar, and are deemed by the Administration to be consistent with community standards. Further, no expressed idea will be suppressed because it is not shared by the majority. However, expressions which involve false statements, disruptive or potentially dangerous content, the use of obscenities, and advocacy of violation of law or school regulations are unacceptable.

 

FOOD ALLERGIES

The school is committed to providing a safe environment for students with food allergies and to support parents regarding food allergy management. A plan based upon guidelines promulgated by the State Department of Education will be implemented for each student for the management of students with life-threatening food allergies and glycogen storage disease.

 

The District’s specific plan for managing students with life-threatening food allergies will be posted on the District website (and/or on the school’s website.)

 

A student with glycogen storage disease is permitted to have a parent/guardian or a person they so designate to provide food or dietary supplements on school grounds during the school day.

 

A student with an allergic condition may retain possession of an EpiPen or similar device while receiving school transportation services.

 

GIFTED AND TALENTED PROGRAM (STEP)

The school’s gifted and talented program provides opportunities for students to explore and extend their unique gifts and talents of intellect and talent. Parents/guardians of identified students will be electronically notified with information pertaining to the identification process, district contact person, State Department of Education resources, and state associations providing support to such students.

 

GRADING SYSTEM

Report Cards

Electronic reports of student grades shall be issued to parents approximately every five weeks. 

 

Report cards are electronically issued to students 4 times a year. Families can access student grades via PowerSchool.

 

Grades given to students are determined by the teacher of the course, and the determination of the student’s grade by the teacher, in the absence of clerical or mechanical mistakes, fraud, bad faith, or incompetency, shall be final.

 

Grades arrived at by a teacher will be considered final and will be changed only (1) by the teacher, with the consent of the principal after a re-evaluation of the student’s work or (2) by an appeal made to the school principal and then to the superintendent or designee. 

 

GREEN CLEANING PROGRAMS

A green cleaning program to clean and maintain the school will be implemented by July 1, 2011. The program provides for the procurement and proper use of environmentally preferable cleaning products in the school. The cleaning products used meet standards approved by the Department of Administrative Services and minimize potential harmful effects on human health and the environment. Parents/Guardians may request a written copy of the District’s policy pertaining to the green cleaning program and a written statement which includes the names and types of environmentally preferable cleaning products used in the school and where in the building they are applied; the schedule for applying the products; and the names of the school administrator or designee whom the parent/guardian or student may contact for more information.

 

“No parent, guardian, teacher, or staff member may bring into the school facility any consumer product which is intended to clean, deodorize, sanitize or disinfect”.

 

GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING

The school’s counseling department is committed to a program of comprehensive developmental services structured to anticipate and nurture the personal, social, career, and educational growth of all students as they pass through specific developmental stages. This complete program incorporates a school counseling curriculum, individual planning, responsive services and program management. Social services and counseling are rendered by professionally qualified members of the school staff. The responsibilities of the [social workers] and guidance/school counselors include helping the student function more successfully within the school environment.

 

School counselors will use a variety of methods to assist students in overcoming barriers to learning, to make strong connections with the educational opportunities in the school and to ensure that every child learns in a safe, healthy and supportive setting.

 

Counseling is an opportunity to talk with someone about things that are important to students. These opportunities to talk may be personal, social, educational or vocational. Counselors will listen and be open and honest with students. Guidance/School Counselors are encouraged to issue appointment request forms to students. Appointments can also be arranged by filling out a Guidance Appointment request form in the office or by stopping by the guidance office before school, between classes or after school.

 

Educational and future career planning guidance is available along with information to develop a plan for the student’s future. This may include a long range plan of studies for grades 9-12 and selecting student’s subjects year by year in keeping with the student's special skills or talents. Parent notification and involvement will be solicited.

 

Referral for psychological and/or psychiatric assistance by other social services agencies within or outside the school may also be recommended. Please note: The school will not conduct a psychological examination, test, or treatment without first obtaining the parents/guardian’s written consent.

 

HARASSMENT STATEMENT

Every child has the right to feel safe, valued and comfortable in school. No one else’s behavior should ever make children feel afraid or embarrassed because of their race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any disability they may have. The District prohibits harassment of any kind. Students are expected to treat other students and district employees with courtesy and respect; to avoid any behaviors known to be offensive; and to stop those behaviors when asked or told to stop.

 

Parents are urged to reinforce with their child(ren) that if he/she is harassed or sees harassment happening to someone else that he/she should report the behavior to a teacher or the principal. To maintain a productive and positive learning environment, the Board of Education will make every attempt to halt any harassment of which they become aware by calling attention to this policy or by direct disciplinary action, if necessary.

 

A student who believes he/she has been harassed is encouraged to report the incident to the principal. The allegations will be investigated and addressed and appropriate disciplinary action taken, where necessary.

 

HATE SPEECH

The District denounces the use of words or images to harass individuals or groups based on gender, gender expression, race, religion, sexual orientation, or any other aspect of identity. Hate speech is not tolerated in District schools and such speech, threat speech and harassment is prohibited. All speech that denigrates, disrespects, or misrepresents “types of people” must be challenged. 

 

HAZING ACTIVITIES

Students are prohibited from participating in any hazing activities. Hazing is any activity that recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purposes of initiation or admission into or affiliation with any student organization.

 

HEALTH SERVICES

The school health office is designed to provide care to students who become ill or are injured while in school. 

 

A cumulative health file is maintained for each student. This file includes notations of past illnesses, results of physical examinations, and other pertinent health information. Vision and hearing tests are administered to students in grades K, 1, 3, 4 and 5. Postural screening will be done in grades 5 and 7 for female students and grade 8 or 9 for male students. The results are provided to the parents. An annual written notification of when these screenings, at no cost to parents, will be provided. Parents wishing to have these screenings conducted by their private physician are required to report the screening results to the school nurse.

 

Parents are encouraged to have oral health assessments for their child(ren) prior to school enrollment, in grade 6 or 7, and in grade 9 or 10. Such assessment may be conducted by a dentist, dental hygienist, physician, physician assistant (PA) or an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) trained in conducting such assessments. The results are to be provided to the school nurse. 

 

Parents are notified of any deviation from the normal pattern of health and suggestions are given for follow-up. It is likewise important that parents notify the school nurse in case of a student’s illness. If a student is to be excused or limited for an extended period from participation in school activities, he/she is required to bring a statement signed by a physician. The school nurse is available to parents and students for conferences regarding health issues.

 

Administration of Medication

Parents of students requiring medication during school should contact the school nurse. Special forms are required to permit the administration of medicine in school. They are available from the school nurse. All medication must be in the original container with proper labels.

 

In cases in which a student is able to self-administer medication, the parents or guardians must submit a signed statement that the medication must be taken during the school day and the student is capable of administering the medication. The statement must be accompanied by a physician’s, dentist’s or advanced practice registered nurse’s statement indicating the necessity and naming the medication, the strength, and the prescribed dosage. It must specify the schedule on which it is to be taken and the details of administration. Such statements must be renewed at the beginning of each school year. For a full description please review the specific policy on the district website:

5141.21: Administering Medication to Students - Policy 

 

Communicable/Infectious Diseases

Students with any medical condition which within the school setting may expose others to disease or contagious and infectious conditions may be excluded from school and referred for medical diagnosis and treatment. Additional information concerning this may be obtained from the school nurse.

 

Before a child may return to school after an absence due to such a condition, parents and students may be required to submit medical evidence that their child has recovered sufficiently to prevent exposing others.

 

Disabilities

The school district will not discriminate on the basis of disability as required under ADA, IDEA and Section 504 and C.G.S. 10-76a and any similar law or provision.

 

Emergency Medical Treatment

Parents are asked each year to complete an emergency information form for use by the school in the event of a medical emergency.

 

Health Records

School nurses maintain health records using the Connecticut “Health Assessment and Record Form.” These records are accessible to certified staff working with the child and to school health aides if permission is granted by the nurse or building administrator. Parents may request to inspect the health records of their child. Copies may be provided if requested. Original copies of the record are sent when a student transfers to another school in the state. If moving out-of-state, a copy will be forwarded. Health records are maintained for at least six years after the student graduates. The District will comply with the requirements of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA) to maintain the privacy of protected health information.

 

A diabetic student may test his/her own blood glucose level per the written order of a physician or advanced practice nurse stating the need and the capacity of the student to conduct self testing. Such self testing shall be done in accordance with the guidelines issued by the Commissioner of Education.

 

Homebound

Home instruction is available to students who are unable to attend school for medical and/or mental health reasons for a period of two weeks or longer as diagnosed by a physician, psychiatrist or the Planning and Placement Team. Home instruction may also be provided for those students who have been excluded from regular school attendance for disciplinary reasons.

 

Homeless Students

Homeless students, as defined by federal and state legislation, will have all programs, services, and transportation that other students enjoy and may continue to attend the school of origin. The District has reviewed its existing policies and regulations to remove barriers to the enrollment and retention of homeless children and youth. Homeless children and youths are defined as “individuals who lack a fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence”. Homeless children have the right to attend the school of origin “to the extent feasible,” unless doing so is contrary to the request of such student’s parent/guardian or unaccompanied youth.

 

A homeless student who is not in the physical custody of a parent/guardian, shall have full access to his/her educational and medical records in the Board’s possession.

 

Immunizations

All students must be immunized against certain diseases and must present a certificate from a physical or local health agency. If the student should not be immunized due to medical reasons, a statement from a physician or the parent as appropriate must be provided. For a full description please review the specific policy on the district website:

5141.311: Immunizations - Policy 

 

Physical Examinations

All students must present evidence of a physical examination upon enrollment to the district. (C.G.S. 10-204a) Health assessment shall also be required in grade 6 (or 7) and in grade 9 (or 10). Postural screening will be conducted for all female students in grades 5 and 7 and for male students in grade 8 or 9. If a homeless student, as defined by federal statute, lacks immunization/medical records, the school will enroll the child and refer the parent/guardian to the district’s homeless liaison.

 

HOMEWORK

The purpose of homework is to help students become self-directed, independent learners and is related to the educational progress of the student. It serves to help all students reach their instructional goals.

 

Specific homework assignments may strengthen basic skills; extend classroom learning; stimulate and further interests; reinforce independent study skills; develop initiative, responsibility, and self-direction; stimulate worthwhile use of leisure time; and acquaint parents with the student’s work in school.

 

In order for homework to be an effective support for learning, the homework policy requires a partnership among the school system represented by the teacher, the student and their parents. Without this partnership in support of learning, students will not achieve their full potential.

 

INDOOR AIR QUALITY 

The Board of Education provides for a uniform inspection and evaluation program of indoor air quality complying with the Environmental Protection Agency’s Tools for Indoor Air Quality for Schools Program.  The results of the evaluation will be made available for public inspection at a regularly scheduled Board of Education meeting and also posted on the District’s website.

 

The District will report biennially, to the Commissioner of Education on the condition of its facilities, its long range facilities program, its air quality program, and green cleaning program.  The Board will utilize standard reporting forms to conduct and report on both IAQ and HVAC inspections and will provide the Department of Administrative Services (DAS) the completed forms for each school. The forms and/or reports will be made available at a regularly scheduled Board of Education meeting and on the Board of Education/individual school website.

 

INSURANCE 

School insurance is made available to families through a specific program. Brochures are distributed to all students at the beginning of each academic year. While the program is not mandatory, it is suggested that parents take advantage of the opportunity to provide adequate protection for their children while in school. Any such arrangements is contractual between the parent and insurance carriers and the Wallingford Public School assumes no liability from disputes arising from such contract.

 

ITEMS NOT PERMITTED IN SCHOOL

In order to ensure student safety and the protection of personal property, parents/guardians are encouraged to monitor closely those items that are brought or worn to school by students. The following items are specifically prohibited on school grounds: weapons, including martial arts (real or fake), knives, razor blades, sharp items, roller skates, roller blades, sneakers with wheels, lacrosse sticks, matches, caps, fireworks, laser pointers and portable game systems. 

 

LIBRARY/MEDIA CENTER

Students are invited to use the books, magazines, newspapers, videos, CD’s and other materials, including computers, located in the media center. Students are responsible for any material they sign out. Materials must be returned to the circulation desk. Students must pay for any materials they lose or damage. 

 

Guidelines have been established for the use of the Internet. Student violations of the guidelines can result in the termination of access privileges and in disciplinary actions. It is the policy of the Board of Education that all students must sign an acceptable use policy which indicates that a student agrees to use the Internet exclusively for educational purposes. Each contract must also include a signature from the student’s parent/guardian.

 

LOST AND FOUND

Any articles which are found in the school or on school grounds should be turned in at the (main office). Unclaimed articles will be disposed of regularly throughout the school year. Loss or suspected theft of personal or school property should be reported to the main office. Whenever practical, items brought to school should have a name placed on them to assure return to the rightful owner.

 

MAKE-UP WORK

A student will be permitted to make-up tests and to turn in projects due in any class missed because of absence. Teachers may assign a late penalty to any project in accordance with time-lines approved by the principal and previously communicated to students.

 

For any class missed, students may be assigned make-up work based on the instructional objectives of the subject or course and the needs of the student. The student is responsible for obtaining and completing make-up work within the time specified by the teacher.

 

MEDICAID BILLING FOR HEALTH-RELATED SERVICES

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) allows certain health-related services provided under an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) to be covered by Medicaid. Such services could include audiologist services, evaluation and testing, nursing services, occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy, psychological services and/or social work services. Recent Connecticut legislation requires the Board of Education to determine a child’s Medicaid Services. The District is required to provide all IEP services, at no cost to parents, even if parent/guardians deny permission to bill Medicare.

 

MENSTRUAL PRODUCTS AVAILABLE IN STUDENT BATHROOMS

The district will provide free menstrual products in women’s restrooms, all-gender restrooms, and at least one men’s restroom. Such restrooms will be accessible to students in grades three through twelve, in each school under the jurisdiction of the board. The provision of these products will be done in a manner that does not stigmatize any student seeking menstrual products, pursuant to guidelines that need to be established by the Commissioner of Public Health and posted on the DPH’s website. The Board may accept donations of menstrual products and grants from any source for the purpose of purchasing such products, and may partner with a nonprofit or community-based organization. 

 

MIGRANT STUDENTS

The district has a program to address the needs of migrant students. A full range of services will be provided to migrant students, including applicable Title I programs, special education, gifted education, vocational education, language programs, counseling programs and elective classes. Parents/guardians of migrant students will be involved in and regularly consulted about the development, implementation, operation and evaluation of the migrant program.

 

NATIONAL ASSESSMENT OF EDUCATIONAL PROGRESS (NAEP)

Federal legislation requires schools selected to participate in this national testing program to notify parents of children who will be taking the test of their right to exclude their child. Parents also have the right to inspect all NAEP data, questions and assessment instruments.

 

ON-CAMPUS RECRUITMENT

Students at the middle and high school level will be informed of the availability of (1) vocational, technical and technological education and training of technical high schools and (2) agricultural sciences and technology education at regional agricultural science and technology education centers. Full access for the recruitment of students by technical high schools, regional agricultural science and technology education centers, magnet schools, and charter schools will be provided. Military recruiters and institutions of higher learning shall have access to secondary school students’ names, addresses and telephone listings unless the student’s parent/guardians submits a written request that such information not be released without their prior written consent.

 

OUT OF SCHOOL MISCONDUCT

Students are subject to discipline, up to and including suspension and expulsion for misconduct which is seriously disruptive of the educational process and is a violation of a publicized board policy, even if such conduct occurs off-school property and during non-school time.

 

Examples of off-school conduct that may result in such discipline include but are not limited to:

1. Sale, possession, use, or distribution of dangerous weapons, including marital arts weapons;

2. Use, possession, or distribution of illegal drugs;

3. Violent conduct;

4. Making of a bomb threat;

5. Threatening to harm or kill another student or member of the staff; where any such activity has the reasonable likelihood of threatening the health, safety or welfare of school property, individuals thereon, and/or the educational process.

 

 

PANDEMIC/EPIDEMIC EMERGENCIES

A pandemic/epidemic outbreak is a serious threat that affects students, staff and the entire community. At all times, the health, safety and welfare of students will be of primary concern.

 

CDC, Connecticut Department of Public Health and State Department of Education guidelines will be followed during an epidemic/pandemic. Such guidelines, followed by the District, will address potential school closures, quarantine, infection control, use of PPEs, social distancing, cleaning and disinfection of school facilities and the manner in which instruction will be provided.

 

PARENT CONFERENCES

Parents are encouraged to partner with the school to ensure their child’s educational successes. Conferences with teachers may be held at any time during the school year. Parents and students, as well as teachers, counselors or administrators may initiate a conference. 

 

A parent or student may arrange a conference with an individual member of the school staff or a group conference with school staff members. Conferences are held during school hours but every effort will be made to accommodate parent schedules. 

 

PARENT INVOLVEMENT/COMMUNICATIONS

Education succeeds best when there is a strong partnership between home and school based on communications, interactions and engagement. Parents/guardians are urged to encourage their children to put a high priority on education and to make the most of their educational opportunities available. Parents/guardians should become familiar with all of the child’s school activities and with the District’s academic programs, including special programs. Attendance at parent-teacher conferences, participation in campus parent organizations, attendance at board of education meetings and being a school volunteer are strongly encouraged.

 

PARENT PORTAL INFORMATION SYSTEM 

The Board of Education has enhanced its student information system to include a parent portal. The parent portal will allow a parent/guardian of students in grades Kindergarten to Grade 12 to access student records via a secure website. A parent/guardian will be able to view attendance, homework assignments and grades.

 

PARENT-TEACHER ORGANIZATIONS 

PTO is a vital link between the school, community and the parents it serves. Its aim is to support the school and coordinate efforts of parents/guardians to develop a closer relationship between home and school. Thus, parents are urged to join and take an active part in the PTO.

 

Announcements of booster organization events will clearly indicate that they are sponsored by the group and not the school or District.

 

PESTICIDE APPLICATION

Only certified pesticide applicators shall be used in schools for any non-emergency pesticide use in school buildings or on school grounds. Pesticide applications are limited to non-school hours and when activities are not taking place. Areas to receive pesticide application will be posted and a written record of all pesticide applications will be maintained for five years. Parents/guardians and staff who want to receive advance notice of all pesticide use will be listed on a registry and such notice will be provided as required by law (Schools without an integrated pest -management plan must send prior notice by mail.) . Parents/guardians who want to be notified prior to pesticide applications inside their child(ren)’s school assignment area may contact the principal. 

 

POSTERS

Signs and posters that students wish to display must be approved by the Principal. Posters displayed without authorization will be removed. Any student who posts such material without authorization shall be subject to disciplinary action.

 

PROMOTION, RETENTION AND PLACEMENT

A student shall be promoted from one grade to the next on the basis of academic performance. 

 

Student promotion is dependent on each student’s mastery and acquisition of basic learning objectives. Normally, students will progress annually from grade to grade. Students who master objectives at an exceptional rate may be considered for acceleration to another grade or class. Students who fail to master basic learning objectives at a normal rate will be considered for retention. Retention and acceleration decisions are the responsibility of the teaching staff and principal, after prior notification and discussion with parents. The final decision rests with the school principal.

 

Students must demonstrate attainment of the basic skills needed for graduation based on the district’s assessment program. A failure to attain these skills may necessitate involvement in additional courses, special help programs, summer school, retesting, etc.

 

PROPERTY, LOCKERS, AND EQUIPMENT

It is the policy of the Board to hold students responsible for any loss of or damage to the property of the school under the jurisdiction of the Board when the loss or damage occurs through fault of the student.

 

Any student damaging or defacing school property will be financially liable for restoring the property regardless of the condition of the property at the time of the destructive act, in addition to any other discipline up to and including arrest or civil prosecution as deemed appropriate. 

 

Searches of desks or lockers may be conducted at any time there is reasonable cause to believe that they contain articles or materials prohibited by district policy. Parents will be notified if any prohibited items are found in the student’s desk or locker.

 

PSYCHOTROPIC DRUG USE

School personnel are prohibited from recommending the use of psychotropic drugs for any student enrolled within the school system. School nurses, nurse practitioners, district medical advisor, school psychologists, school social workers and school counselors, may recommend that a student be evaluated by an appropriate medical practitioner. Further, the District is prohibited from requiring a child to get a prescription before he/she may attend school, be evaluated to determine eligibility for special education or receive special education.

 

RECORDING OF CLASSROOM ACTIVITIES

The District prohibits the covert recording of classroom activities. The recording of teachers or students in class is inherently disruptive of the educational process. Students violating this rule will be subject to discipline and confiscation of the electronic device.

 

RELIGION AND RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATIONS

The school district acknowledges each individual’s rights to follow or not to follow religious beliefs and practices, free from discriminatory or harassing behavior. The District strives to provide religious accommodations to students in an equitable and appropriate way in accordance with District policies and corresponding guidelines.

 

RESPECT

All students, teachers, administrators, staff, parents and all who enter our school are expected to treat each other with respect. 

 

SCHOOL CEREMONIES AND OBSERVANCES

The school district recognizes the value of certain ceremonies and observances in promoting patriotism and good citizenship among the students. Therefore, activities in schools commemorating national holidays such as, but not limited to, Martin Luther King Day, Veterans Day, Memorial Day, Thanksgiving and Presidents Day are encouraged. The district reminds students, faculty and administration of the variety of religious beliefs, and all are urged to be conscious of and respect the sensitivities of others.

 

Activities related to a religious holiday or theme will be planned to ensure that the activity is not devotional, and that students of all faiths can join without feeling that they are betraying their own beliefs. Therefore,

1. school and class plays shall not be overly religious, and church-like scenery will be avoided;

2. religious music shall not entirely dominate the selection of music; and

3. program notes and illustrations shall not be religious or sectarian.

 

Students shall be given the option to be excused from participating in those parts of a program or curriculum involving a religious theme which conflicts with their own religious beliefs. If a parent or student has any questions regarding the use of religious music, artwork and/or symbols in a particular course/activity, the Building Principal should be contacted.

 

An opportunity will be provided, at the beginning of each school day, for students to observe an appropriate period of silent meditation and to recite the Pledge of Allegiance. Participation in these activities is voluntary. Nonparticipants are expected to maintain order and decorum appropriate to the school environment.

 

SCHOOL CLIMATE

School climate means the quality and character of school life based on patterns of students’ parents’ and guardians’ and school employees’ experiences of school life, including, but not limited to, norms, goals, values, interpersonal relationships, teaching and learning practices, and organizational structures.

 

In order for teaching and learning to occur there must be a positive climate in which students are appreciative and accepting of individual differences and behave responsibly toward others. Students are encouraged to report bullying, discrimination or harassment to any faculty member or administrator and may request anonymity. 

 

SCHOOL DISTRICT RECORDS

Interested persons may inspect “public district records” which are maintained at the office of the Superintendent of Schools, during normal hours of business. Copies of records, permitted by law to be disclosed, may also be attained.

 

SCHOOL SECURITY AND SAFETY

Each school in the District will develop and implement a school security and safety plan based upon the standards issued by the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection. Each school, as required by law, shall establish a school security and safety committee which will assist in the development and administration of the school’s security and safety plan. Each district school will conduct a security and vulnerability assessment every two years and develop a school security and safety plan based upon the standards developed by DESPP.

 

The District has developed, maintains, an emergency disaster preparedness and response plan for implementation as needed. The plan is based upon the standards promulgated by the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection Development and implementation of the plan includes collaboration with local and state emergency responders, (law enforcement, fire department, emergency rescue squads and local public health administrators). The plan, representing an all hazards approach, utilizes the four recognized phases of crisis management: (1) mitigation/prevention, (2) preparedness, (3) response, (4) recovery.

 

If the school utilizes school resource officers, include here language pertaining to their role, also stressing the use of a graduate/response model in student disciplinary situations.

 

SEARCH AND SEIZURE

The right to inspect desks, lockers and other equipment assigned to students may be exercised by school officials to safeguard students, their property and school property. An authorized school administrator may search a student’s locker or desk under the following conditions:

1. There is reason to believe that the student’s desk or locker contains contraband material.

2. The probable presence of contraband material presents a serious threat to the maintenance of discipline, order, safety and health in school.

 

This document serves as advance notice that school board policy allows desks and lockers to be inspected if the administration has reason to believe that materials injurious to the best interests of students and the school are contained therein.

 

Under special circumstances, school officials may search students, particularly if there is reasonable suspicion that a student possesses illegal matter, such as a dangerous weapon or illegal drugs. Students must be aware that such items are forbidden both on school property and at school-related activities.

 

SECLUSION/RESTRAINT/EXCLUSIONARY TIME OUT, USE OF

List in this section the District’s position pertaining to the use of physical restraints, seclusion and exclusionary time outs as specified in PA 15-141 and PA18-51 and the revised policy and administrative regulations required by statute. Indicate when they maybe used and the applicable guidelines and reporting requirements. The use of restraint or seclusion will be used only by trained school staff as an emergency intervention only to prevent immediate or imminent injury to a student or others. Restraint or seclusion will not be used to discipline a student or because it is convenient or instead of a less restrictive alternative. Such use will also be constantly monitored by a school employee. When used, parents will be notified within 24 hours, but a reasonable attempt will be made to notify parents/guardians immediately after restraint or seclusion is initiated.

 

Seclusion will not be used as a planned intervention in a student’s behavioral intervention plan, IEP or 504 plan. Seclusion involves the involuntary confinement of a student in a room from which he/she is physically prevented from leaving. Physical restraint includes, among other things, carrying or forcibly moving a person from one location to another. Exclusionary time out is a temporary, continuously monitored separation of a student from an ongoing activity in a non-locked setting, for the purpose of calming such student or de-escalating such student’s behavior. It may be used as a planned intervention. However, exclusionary time out may not be used as a form of discipline.  For a full description please review the specific policy on the district website:

5144.1: Physical Restraint and Seclusion of Students - Policy

 

SEXUAL ABUSE PREVENTION AND EDUCATION PROGRAM

Students in grades K-12 will be involved in a prevention-oriented child sexual abuse program which teaches students age-appropriate techniques to recognize child sexual abuse and how to report it. Parents/guardians may permit their child to opt out of the awareness program or any part of it by notifying the school in writing of such a request.

 

SEXUAL HARASSMENT

The district wants all students to learn in an environment free from all forms of sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is against state and federal laws. It is unwelcome sexual attention from peers, teachers, staff or anyone with whom the victim may interact. Sexual harassment, whether verbal or physical, includes, but is not limited to the following: (Give examples which are age appropriate.) Any student who believes they have been subjected to sexual harassment should report the alleged misconduct immediately to the Title IX Coordinator, Nondiscrimination Coordinator, his/her teacher, social worker, guidance counselor, administrator, school nurse, or any responsible individual with whom the student feels comfortable, either informally or through the filing of a formal complaint. The administration will take action to investigate the allegations.

 

The district will notify the parents of all students involved in sexual harassment by student(s) and will notify parents of any incident of sexual harassment or sexual abuse by an employee.

 

A complaint alleging sexual harassment by a student or staff member may be presented by a student and/or parent in a conference with the principal or designee or with the Title IX Coordinator, Mrs. Aimee Turner. 

 

SEXUAL HEALTH EDUCATION

The district has a developmentally-appropriate sexual health education program for students in kindergarten through grade 12, inclusive, with the goal of providing young people with the knowledge and skills to promote their health and well-being while improving student outcomes and reducing risky sexual behavior.

 

SOCIAL NETWORKING SITES

Students may not access social media sites using District equipment, while on District property or at District-sponsored activities unless the posting is approved by a District representative/teacher/staff member. Social media websites are websites such as, but not limited to, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok and Twitter.

 

The District will not be liable for information/comments posted by students on social media websites when the student is not engaged in District activities and not using District equipment. For safety purposes, the district employs both Internet filters and firewalls.

 

The School District reserves the right to monitor, inspect, copy, review and store at any time and without prior notice any and all usage of the computer network and Internet access and any and all information transmitted or received in connection with such usage. All such information files shall be and remain the property of the School District and no user shall have any expectation of privacy regarding such materials.

 

STUDENT COMPLAINTS/GRIEVANCES: DUE PROCESS

A student or parent who has a complaint should first bring the matter to the appropriate teacher. If the outcome is not satisfactory, a conference with the principal should be requested as soon as possible. 

 

STUDENT DATA PRIVACY

Connecticut legislation, PA 16-189, (C.G.S. 10-234bb (a)) An Act Concerning Student Data Privacy, as amended by PA 17-200 and PA 18-125, restricts how student information may be used by (1) entities that contract to provide educational software and electronic storage of student records (“contractors'') and (2) operators of websites, online services or mobile applications (i.e., apps). Not later than five (5) business days after executing a contract with such contractors, the contract will be posted on the District’s website. The notice will include a brief description of the content and the purpose of the contract and will state what student information, student records or student-generated content may be collected as a result of the contract. Student information will be deleted by operators of websites, online services, or mobile apps upon student, parent, guardian or board of education request. Such operators may not create student profiles for use in targeted advertising and for purposes unrelated to school. Parents and students will be notified of data breaches. Students and parents/guardians will be notified not later than two business days upon notice of a breach of security by a contractor to the Board of Education.

 

STUDENT RECORDS

A student’s school records are confidential and are protected by federal and state law from unauthorized inspection or use. A cumulative record is maintained for each student from the time the student enters the district until the student withdraws or graduates. This record moves with the student from school to school.

 

By law, both parents, whether married, separated, or divorced, have access to the records of a student who is under 18 or a dependent for tax purposes. A parent whose rights have been legally terminated will be denied access to the records if the school is given a copy of the court order terminating these rights.

 

The principal is custodian of all records for currently enrolled students at the assigned school. The (Superintendent) is the custodian of all records for students who have withdrawn or graduated. Records may be reviewed during regular school hours upon completion of the written request form. The record’s custodian or designee will respond to reasonable requests for explanation and interpretation of the records. For more specific information regarding the policy, please view the following: 

5125: Student Records; Confidentiality - Policy

 

STUDENT SUCCESS PLANNING

A student success plan for each student enrolled in grades six through twelve may be created. Such student success plans shall include a student’s career and academic choices in grades six to twelve, inclusive. Such plans shall provide evidence of career exploration in each grade including, but not limited to, careers in manufacturing. In creating the student success plan, consideration must be given to careers and academic choices in computer science, science, technology, engineering and mathematics. When possible, the student success plan should be created in collaboration with each student and the student’s parent or guardian.

 

The Student Success Plan (SSP) is an individualized student driven plan developed to address every student’s needs and interests to help the student stay connected in school and to achieve postsecondary educational and career goals.

 

SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS

Students are required to maintain high standards of behavior when being taught by a substitute teacher. Substitute teachers must be given the cooperation, courtesy and respect of all students. Misbehavior for a substitute teacher will result in teacher and office disciplinary action.

 

SURVEYS/STUDENT PRIVACY

Your child will not be required to participate without parental consent in any survey, analysis, or evaluation that concerns:

1. political affiliations or beliefs of the student or the student’s parent;

2. mental or psychological problems of the student or the student’s family;

3. sex attitudes or behaviors;

4. illegal, antisocial, self-incriminating and demeaning behavior;

5. critical appraisals of other individuals with whom respondents have close family relationships;

6. legally recognized privileged or analogous relationships, such as those of lawyers, physicians and ministers;

7. income; or

8. religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or the student’s parents.

 

In addition, parents have the right to inspect, upon request, a survey that is to be administered by a school to a student, prior to its use. Parents will be notified at least two weeks in advance of any survey that will be given to their children.

 

Parents will be notified of any non-emergency, invasive physical examination that is required as a condition of attendance administered by the school and which is not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of students. Parents will be given an opportunity to opt their child out of the exam. Hearing, vision and scoliosis screening are not subject to prior notifications.

 

The District will not collect, disclose or use personal information gathered from students for the purpose of marketing or selling that information or providing it to others for that purpose.

 

TEACHER AND PARAEDUCATOR QUALIFICATIONS

Parents have the right to request information about the professional qualifications of their child’s teacher(s). The response will indicate whether the teacher is certified for the subject matter and grade taught; the teacher’s undergraduate major and any graduate degrees or certifications a teacher may have. Parents will also be advised, if requested, as to whether the child is provided service by paraeducators and their qualifications.

 

TESTING

All students in grades 3 through 8 inclusive and grade 11 shall annually take a statewide mastery examination in reading, language arts and mathematics. Students in grades 5, 8 and 11 shall annually take a statewide mastery examination in science. Special education students participate in mastery testing programs except in the rare case when participation in an alternate assessment is detrimental to the student’s IEP. In order to graduate students must meet District standards for graduation, in addition to required course credits. The mastery examination test is one of the measures to be used to determine if students have met the identified standards. Student scores on each component of the statewide grade 11 state assessment test may/shall be included on transcripts and permanent records. All English learners are required to participate in all content areas of the state summative assessment.

 

TEXTBOOK CARE AND OBLIGATIONS

Students are responsible for the care of books and supplies entrusted to their use. They will be assessed damage to textbooks, equipment or materials. In accordance with state law, the school reserves the right to withhold grades, transcripts, or report cards until the student pays for or returns the textbooks, library book or other educational materials.

 

TITLE I COMPARABILITY OF SERVICES

All district schools, regardless of whether they receive Federal Title I funds, provide services that, taken as a whole, are substantially comparable. Staff, curriculum materials and instructional supplies are provided in a manner to ensure equivalency among district schools.

 

TITLE I PARENT AND FAMILY ENGAGEMENT

Parents of a child in a Title 1 funded program will receive a copy of the district’s parental and family engagement involvement policy, including provisions of an annual meeting and involvement of parents in the planning, review and implementation of Title 1 programs and opportunities for parents and family members to participate in the education of their children.

 

TRANSFERS AND WITHDRAWALS

Students withdrawing from school must notify the school office one week in advance of their last day. At that time, they will be given forms for their parents to complete. Included will be a formal written statement of withdrawal and release of records form.

 

TRANSPORTATION

School transportation privileges are extended to students conditioned upon their satisfactory behavior on the bus. Unsatisfactory student behavior on the bus may result in suspension of transportation services or such other disciplinary action that is appropriate for misconduct.

 

Students will be notified of their bus stop and times for pick-up and drop-off via PowerSchool prior to the start of school. 

 

TRANSPORTATION SAFETY COMPLAINTS/PROCEDURES

All complaints concerning school transportation safety are to be made to the Transportation Coordinator, Mrs. MaryAnn Croce, located at our Central Office.  A written record of all complaints will be maintained and an investigation of the allegations will take place.  

 

TUTORING

Teachers may not teach privately (tutor) students of the school in which he/she teaches.  This does not apply to teachers of homebound children employed by the Board of Education. 

 

VACATIONS

School policy strongly encourages the scheduling of family vacations and trips during times which coincide with school vacations.  Student absences for reasons of a family vacation or trip that takes place when school is in session may be considered “unexcused absences”, in light of CSDE guidelines. 

 

VISITORS

Parents and other visitors are welcome to visit district schools.  All visitors must first report to the main office.  Visits to classrooms during instructional time shall be permitted only with the principal's approval, and such visits shall not be permitted if their duration or frequency interferes with the delivery of instruction or disrupts the normal school operation. 

 

All doors that open to the outside of any school must remain locked in order to preserve the safety and security of students and staff. Unauthorized persons shall not be permitted in school buildings or on school grounds. School principals are authorized to take appropriate action to prevent such persons from entering the building or from loitering on the grounds. Such persons will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

 

All visitors are expected to demonstrate the highest standards of courtesy and conduct. Disruptive behavior or uncivil discourse will not be permitted. Visits cannot interfere with the educational program of the school nor interrupt teaching activities.

 

WEBSITES

School web pages must contain material that reflects on education purposes.  School web pages are not to be used for personal, commercial, or political purposes; and are considered a publication of the Board of Education.  The Principal or his/her designee will approve all material posted on the school’s web page.  The District is committed to ensuring accessibility of its websites for parents, students, and members of the community with disabilities.  

 

WELLNESS

Student wellness, including good nutrition and physical activity, is promoted through the District’s educational program, school activities, and meal programs. Federal and state standards will be met pertaining to all foods and beverages available for sale to students. A sequential program of physical education is provided, in addition to time in the elementary school day for supervised recess.

 

WITHDRAWAL FROM SCHOOL

If a student needs to withdraw from school during the school year, the student’s parent/guardian must complete a withdrawal form and obtain all necessary documentation prior to the students’ last day of school.  All books, materials, athletic equipment and other equipment loaned by the school must be returned or paid for by the student or his/her parents/guardians.