CCSD Elementary School Handbook 2019-2020

Chappaqua Central School District
66 Roaring Brook Road
Chappaqua, New York 10514

2019-2020

Elementary Student Handbook

for

Douglas G. Grafflin Elementary School
650 King Street
Chappaqua, New York 10514
914-238-7204

Roaring Brook Elementary School
530 Quaker Road
Chappaqua, New York 10514
914-238-7205

Westorchard Elementary School
25 Granite Road
Chappaqua, New York 10514
914-238-7206

A Message from the Superintendent

We are pleased to make this elementary school handbook available to you and hope you will find it useful. It has been prepared by the district staff to help answer some of your questions. Most of the information you will need about the day-to-day operations of the schools is contained in this handbook. Please keep it as a reference to be used throughout the year. If you need additional information, please contact the principal of your school.

Christine Ackerman

Superintendent of Schools

When There’s a Question: We are deeply concerned about your child as an individual. Whenever there is a suggestion, question, or concern, we urge you to contact the appropriate school staff member. The procedure on school problems is first to contact the classroom teacher and then the building principal.

The Board of Education: The Board of Education meets on scheduled Wednesdays of each month at 7:30 p.m. Meetings are open to the public and held at Horace Greeley High School, 70 Roaring Brook Road. A meeting schedule can be obtained by calling the Education Center (914) 238-7200 or by accessing the district webpage at www.ccsd.ws. The Board is comprised of five elected members on a rotational basis, for three-year terms. Elections take place on the third Tuesday in May.

Members for 2019/2020 are:
Jane Kimmel Shepardson, President
Holly McCall, Vice President
Hilary Grasso
Warren Messner
Victoria Tipp

Chappaqua Central School District
66 Roaring Brook Road
Chappaqua, NY 10514

Phone: 914-238-7200 Fax: 914-238-7231

Administrative Personnel and Information:

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Christine Ackerman

Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Dr. Adam Pease

Assistant Superintendent for Business John Chow

Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources & Leadership Development Dr. Tony Sinanis

Director of Special Education and Related Services Dr. Heidi McCarthy

CPSE Chairperson and K-7 Elizabeth Wright

CSE Chairperson, Grades 8-12 Kristie Evers

Director of Facilities, Operations and Maintenance Joseph Gramando

Director of Technology and Innovation Joshua Block

Director of Literacy Jamie Edelman

District Clerk/Secretary to Superintendent Liisa Elsner

Registrar Mary Marchionno

Public Relations Assistant David Hayes

Building Administrators:

Douglas G. Grafflin Elementary School Carol Bartlik, Principal

650 King Street, Chappaqua, NY 10514 Debbie Alspach, Assistant Principal

914-238-7204

Roaring Brook Elementary School Doreen O’Leary, Principal

530 Quaker Road, Chappaqua, NY 10514 Ross Cooper, Assistant Principal

914-238-7205

Westorchard Elementary School James Skoog, Principal

25 Granite Road, Chappaqua, NY 10514 Alissa Stoever, Assistant Principal

914-238-7206

Chappaqua Bus Company 914-238-4404

CCW (Chappaqua Children’s Workshop) - Main 914-238-3295

Douglas Grafflin 914-238-7204

Roaring Brook 914-238-7205

Westorchard 914-238-7206

Chappaqua Library 914-238-4779

New Castle Arts Center 914-238-3606

New Castle Police 914-238-4422

New Castle Recreation Department 914-238-3909

New Castle Town Hall 914-238-4771

Table of Contents

Procedures

Academics

Art Program 7

Field Trips 7

Homework 7

Music Program 8

NYS Testing Program 8

Physical Education 9

Student Records 9

Calendar 10

Attendance

Absences and Tardiness 11

Signing Out 11

Health/Medical

Health Services 11

Medication 12

KI - (potassium iodide) 12

Physicians Health Appraisal 12

Communicable Diseases, Illness and Injuries 12

Head Lice Protocol 12

Immunizations 13

Animals in School 13

Parent Communication and Involvement

Parent Teacher Association 13

Parent Conferences & Report Cards 13

Visiting the Schools 14

Student Support Programs and Services

Student Support Services 14

English as a Second Language (ESL) 14

Response to Intervention (RTI) 14

Technology

Technology/Internet Use 14

Acceptable Use Policy 14

Transportation 15

School Dismissal Manager 15

Pick Up 15

Drop Off 16

Bus Video 16

Zone Monitor 16

Expected Behaviors on the Bus 17

School Closing

Inclement Weather 18

Delayed Opening - 2 hrs 18

Emergency Early Dismissal 18

Student Conduct

Playground Rules 18

CCSD Elementary Guiding Principles 19

CCSD Elementary-Building Expectations 20

CCSD Range of Consequences 21

Plain Language Summary of DASA– Elementary 22

Plain Language Summary of CCSD Code of Conduct 23

Code of Conduct and DASA Signature Page 24

Safety

Security Procedures 25

SAVE Legislation 25

Smoking Prohibition Policy 7030 (excerpt) 25

Miscellaneous

Building Planning Teams 26

Lunch at School 26

Safer, Smarter Kids 26

Board Policies 27

Nondiscrimination Policy 0120 (excerpt) 27

Section 504/Title II A.D.A Compliance and Appeal Procedures Policy 3040 (excerpt) 27

Student Code of Conduct Policy 5030 27

Student Sexual Harassment Policy 5080 35

Bill of Rights and Responsibilities of Students Policy 5020 36

School Policy on Alcohol and Drug Use by Students Participating

in Sports and Extracurricular Activities Policy 5005 38

Comprehensive Student Attendance Policy 5015 38

Harassment, Bullying and Discrimination Prevention and Intervention
Policy 5052 41

Social Media Policy 43

Art Program

Each class receives art instruction once in a six-day cycle. A variety of materials will be used to elicit creative expression and encourage participation by all students. Art teachers plan purposeful exercises using skills, technologies, and materials that will enable the children to become competent in mind, body, and hand. The creativity fostered is not simply the manipulation of art materials but original self-expression. The children are encouraged to express thoughts, feelings, and values, in visual form under the supervision of the art staff. Art teachers also assist with special projects, such as displays and plays.

Field Trips

To enhance our curriculum, children at all grade levels participate in a variety of field trips. Pre and post-trip lessons make the experiences relevant and an extension of school activities.

Aside from these grade level designated trips, individual teachers, with the approval of the principal and the help and support of the parents, sometimes provide students with other experiences away from the school setting. Parents are frequently invited to help chaperone field trips. To assure the safety of students on these trips, the parent volunteers are advised that younger siblings are not permitted to participate on field trips.

Due to the Homeland Security Alert System, field trips may be cancelled on short notice.

Homework

Homework is assigned for specific purposes that are explained to students. Assignments may be for the purposes of review, reinforcement, and acquisition of information as well as for developing responsibility and time management skills. At times, the tasks assigned may be long-term projects or an encounter with new material which will be followed up in class.

Homework is not a substitute for classroom instruction. When students miss school for travel or other un-excused reasons, completion of assignments cannot compensate for loss of instructional time. Teachers are not expected to provide homework assignments for students who are illegally absent.

While homework is primarily a student’s responsibility, it sometimes affords parents an opportunity to offer assistance to students. Such assistance should be only enough to help a student understand the assignment. If a student experiences undue difficulty with homework assignments, the student/parent is encouraged to communicate this to the teacher.

Grade Level Guidelines for Homework

The following guidelines relate to the amount of uninterrupted time that a child spends on a task. Teachers may adjust these guidelines to a child’s needs; a child’s learning style may vary the time being devoted to assignments. Our homework guidelines provide general estimates for children to complete assignments. If the time it takes your child to complete homework varies significantly from the grade level guidelines, please speak with the classroom teacher.

Reading

For all students, reading is a daily homework requirement. The daily reading assignment is included within the total time estimate required for daily homework. This includes reading to your child, reading with your child, a child reading to a family member, or a child reading independently. The amount of reading time increases across the school year as children increase their reading stamina.

Kindergarten

There is no regularly assigned homework. Homework assignments are to be given occasionally to help develop a sense of responsibility and carryover between home and school related projects. Activities that pertain to sounds or letters are examples. Reading to and with your child each day will help to develop good reading habits.

First Grade

Short homework assignments may be given to reinforce classroom objectives. Children may be asked to complete classroom work with parental supervision. Parents are asked to help children develop responsibility for materials and belongings. Reading to and with your child for approximately 15 minutes each day, in the beginning of the year and up to 30 minutes by the end of first grade, will help to develop good reading habits.

Second Grade

Children receive regular language arts and math assignments. Children may be asked to work on special projects or activities. Children are expected to read for approximately 30 minutes each night. In total, students are expected to spend approximately 40 minutes completing daily homework.

Third Grade

Students are expected to read for approximately 30 minutes each night. An additional 20-25 minutes of homework may be assigned. Children may be asked to work on special projects or activities.

Fourth Grade

Approximately 45 to 60 minutes of homework is assigned each night in the subject areas. Students are expected to read for 30 to 45 minutes each night. Children will be asked to work on daily assignments as well as long term projects.

Support Services and Special Area Subjects

Students who receive special help may receive homework assignments for reinforcement.

Music Program

Music touches many areas of a child’s growth and development. To attain an understanding of music requires discipline, as well as an openness to create. All students have vocal music classes once in six-day cycle. In addition, instrumental music lessons are offered to fourth grade students. The program is designed to encourage and enhance a child’s appreciation of music.

NYS Testing Program

As required by New York State, all new entrants are screened. The results are used to provide initial up-to-date information for our teachers. Fine and gross motor areas, communication (speaking and listening) skills and general academic information are checked.

New York State tests are administered as follows:

Gr. 3 and Gr. 4 Reading and Writing (ELA) - April

Gr. 3 and Gr. 4 Mathematics – May

Gr. 4 Science – May/June

Weak scores on standardized tests often qualify a student to participate in a remedial program offered by our “AIS—Academic Intervention Services” teachers or teaching assistants. Special assistance is provided to address specific academic needs. Parents are always notified prior to a child’s inclusion in a remedial program.

Physical Education Program

The physical education program helps to develop physical skills through movement and active participation. The program promotes self-esteem and interpersonal skills that allow students to learn about themselves and how to interact with others. The physical education program is based on:

Fostering wellness through fitness activities
Motor/movement skill development
Social skill development with an emphasis on the word of the month themes.

The goal of the physical education program is to help students develop skills and attitudes that will enable them to lead an active and healthy lifestyle.

All grades meet three times each six-day cycle. All classes are forty minutes in length.

Student Records

Student records are collected, maintained, and used in accordance with State regulations and local Board of Education policy.

Attendance

Absences and Tardiness

All students are required to be on time for class and to attend regularly. If a child is going to be absent for any reason, the parent or guardian is expected to call the child’s school to report the absence. Before 8:30 a.m., and after school hours, Douglas Grafflin parents should call 238-7204, Roaring Brook parents should call 238-7205 and Westorchard parents should call 238-7206 and leave a message on the answering machine. After 8:30 a.m., speak with a secretary or leave a message on the answering machine. When you call, please leave your child’s name, his or her teacher’s name, and the reason for the absence. If you do not call the school, and your child is reported absent by the teacher, someone from our office will attempt to contact you before 10:00 a.m. to confirm that your child is absent.

Please remember that New York State requires a written note when your child returns to school. In fact, we are required by the State Education Department to keep a written excuse from the parent on file for one year for every absence or tardiness. The note brought by your child when he or she is ready to return to class must state the specific reason for the absence, give the dates of the absence, and be signed by a parent.

When a child arrives late to school, he/she must be signed in by the parent at the Front Desk or Main Office. If a child must have a doctor’s appointment at the beginning of the school day, please notify the teacher a day ahead of time. This will assist us in knowing that the child is not absent, but rather late, and will be arriving shortly.

The school requests that parents do not make medical, dental, or other appointments for students during school hours. If such an appointment is unavoidable, it is advisable to make it for the beginning or end of the day’s session.

Teachers also need to be notified in writing if a child will be leaving during the school day for any special appointments. All children attending school are expected to participate in all indoor and outdoor activities. If a child’s activities must be curtailed, a doctor’s note is required with specific instructions and recommendations. Although some circumstances may require a healthy child to be out of school, these may constitute illegal absences. Excused and unexcused absences are listed under the Comprehensive Student Attendance Policy 5015 on page 31.

Signing Out

If a child is leaving school any time before the scheduled dismissal, that child must be signed out in the office by an adult before being released from school.

Health/Medical

Health Services

The school health program is divided into three areas: health education, health services and environmental health. The school nurse helps to promote and maintain the health of all school children to enable them to function optimally as students. She annually administers vision and hearing tests for all students and height and weight measurements in grades 1 and 3.

When illness or accidents occur during the school day, a child is required to report to the classroom teacher. When situations warrant further attention, the student is sent to the school nurse to assess the problem. If the problem is serious, the nurse will notify the parent and the teacher.

A student may also visit the Health Office to obtain materials and information regarding health education, to be excused from and to re-enter physical education classes, to receive advice and to take prescribed medications.

Medication

· The parent or guardian must provide a written request for the administration of any medication (or vitamins) in school.

· Written orders are to be provided to the school from the private physician, detailing the diagnosis or type of illness involved, the name of the drug, dosage, and time of administration.

· The medication should be brought to the school in the original container, appropriately labeled by the pharmacy or physician.

· The school should provide safe storage of the medication.

· If the school nurse is not available to administer the medication, a predetermined staff member or the parent/guardian may administer the medication in school.

· A record of medication administered is required to be maintained by the school nurse.

KI - (potassium iodide)

The Chappaqua Central School District, in compliance with the State Education Department and the Westchester County Department of Emergency Services, has in place plans for the administration of Potassium Iodide (KI) in the event of a radiological emergency.

Potassium Iodide (KI) is an over-the-counter drug that protects the thyroid from exposure to radioactive iodine. Potassium Iodide (KI) only protects one organ against one radioactive substance. It is not an alternative to evacuation or sheltering. KI is most effective when taken within hours of exposure. The protective effects last for approximately 24 hours. Potassium Iodide (KI) is only available in a pill form for our distribution. For children who are unable to swallow pills, Potassium Iodide (KI) can be administered with food.

In the unlikely event that a dangerous level of radioactive iodine is released into the environment, the State Department of Health and/or the Westchester County Department of Health will notify the schools and authorize the dispensing of one dose of Potassium Iodide (KI) to each child. Only those children with a written/on file “Opt Out” form signed by the parent will not receive the dosage. Designated school personnel will make every effort to see that all those who are to receive the treatment take the medicine.

Physicians Health Appraisal

All new students, kindergartners, second and fourth graders are required by New York State law to receive a physical exam current within the year. If this form is not received, the school physician will examine your child, with the exception of kindergarten children and new entrants who are to be examined by their own physician. The school physicians strongly recommend that all children also receive a physical exam the spring prior to entering fifth grade.

Communicable Diseases, Illness and Injuries

Please advise the Health Office if your child currently has or has recently been treated for a communicable disease, serious illness or injury. Because lice are so common and so easily transmitted, we also need to be notified when a child has been treated for lice or when you think your child may have lice.

Head Lice Protocol

Procedure for pediculosis (head lice) cases:

· If live head lice or nits are found at school, the nurse will contact the family. Parents are also advised to contact the nurse if lice or nits are found at home. Teachers will be notified of a positive case in the classroom. Principal will be notified.

· The removal of lice and nits (egg stage) must begin as soon as possible. The treatment includes the use of a pediculicide (lice treatment) shampoo and also thorough removal of nits through the use of a metal lice comb. An additional pediculicide shampoo is suggested in 7-10 days. Combings may be needed for up to two weeks. (See treatment page for additional information)

· The school nurse will request that treated children return to the Health Office for a recheck after the first shampoo and combing.

· No child should miss a day of school when only nits are found. If many live lice are found, parents may be asked to pick up the child to begin treatment as soon as possible.

· Books and assorted materials are available in the Health Offices, and upon request, can be sent home as a resource.

· Information on lice, along with the treatment protocol, will be sent home at the beginning of the school year.

· A message, reminding parents to check their children’s hair, will be sent home after long school breaks from the PTA.

· If multiple positive cases of lice are reported (3 or more cases) in a particular grade level, a message will be sent home to parents reminding them to check their children’s hair.

· An outline, detailing recommended treatment, will be available on the nurses’ websites.

Immunizations

A “Certificate of Immunization” form certified by the signature of a New York State licensed physician listing all the dates of each immunization is required for entry to the school. A listing of these specific requirements is available in the Health Office upon request. This must be on file prior to school entry.

Animals In School

For a variety of reasons, mostly health related, no personal pets are permitted at school. Also, students are asked to “look but not touch” animals brought in by specialists. While some small mammals that are laboratory-bred and cage-raised might be allowed, prior approval by the school principal and advance notification of staff and parents of affected students must first occur. For further information related to this matter, speak to the school nurse and/or the principal.

Parent Communication and Involvement

Parent-Teacher Association

The goal of the Parent-Teacher Association is to provide a closer relationship between the home and the school in order to enrich the school experience of each child. To bring about mutual understanding, PTA committees have been established to work in various areas of influence in the child’s school environment. We invite all parents to join the PTA and support its programs and activities. See the district calendar for scheduled meetings and contacts for various committees.

Parent Conferences and Report Cards

Parent conferences are held in late fall. Additional parent conferences may be requested by the parent or teacher at any time. Parents are requested to make appointments to see any school personnel.

Two report cards are prepared for each child, in late January and June. These report cards will be available on the parent portal on Infinite Campus in early February and late June. Families should be sure to register for an account to access their child’s report cards and attendance on Infinite Campus. Each parent or guardian may request his/her own private access by signing and submitting his/her own copy of the portal agreement. Copies of the form may be obtained from the website or by contacting the Business Office 238-7200. Copies of report cards will be mailed home at the request of parents.

All students are screened for a variety of reasons. Parents will be notified of additional screenings and any special testing or programming that may be recommended.

Visiting the Schools

All parents and visitors are required to report to the school office, after signing in with security at the front desk upon entering the building. Parents are not permitted to come to the classroom while school is in session, unless prior arrangements have been made. Books, coats, lunches, backpacks, and other items for children are to be left with the security officer or in the office with the school secretary (depending on the school) who will get them to the child.

Student Support Programs and Services

Student Support Services

The Chappaqua Central School District utilizes an interdisciplinary team approach to determine the educational needs of our students. If you have concerns about your child’s academic and/or developmental progress, please contact your child’s classroom teacher, the school principal or assistant principal to discuss these concerns with the team. If you feel your child may have a disability that impacts his/her academic performance, you may also contact Dr. Heidi McCarthy, Director of Special Education and Related Services at (914) 238-7207.

English as a New Language (ENL)

Many foreign children, native speakers of almost a dozen languages, attend our schools. Their presence enables our school to have an international flavor and provides an opportunity for students to learn a great deal about geography, current events and cultural similarities and differences in our shrinking world. The ESL program provides assistance to foreign students as they learn English.

Response to Intervention (RTI)

Each school has a Response to Intervention team to which teachers may refer children for whom there is an academic or behavioral concern. The RTI team is comprised of an administrator, referring classroom teacher, sitting classroom teacher member, reading teacher, special education teacher, speech and language teacher, psychologist, and OT/PT as needed. The RTI team will make recommendations based on the student data and teacher summary and will schedule a review meeting(s) for the student of concern.

Technology

Technology/Internet Use

Prior to using the Internet, students and their parents sign an “Acceptable Use Policy” form, which outlines expected responsibilities.

Acceptable Use Policy

This Acceptable Use Policy defines the expectations and responsibilities associated with the use of the District’s computer system (DCS hereafter). Student use of the DCS shall be limited to work related to their academic program and their school-sponsored extracurricular activities. Students are responsible for appropriate behavior on the DCS. The Student Code of Conduct rules for behavior and communications shall also apply.

Transportation

We encourage all students to ride the bus to and from school. If you have any questions regarding your child’s bus transportation, please contact the Assistant Principal. Over 100 cars can arrive within the first 15 minutes of each day, therefore it is important to quickly move out to make room for others. If you must drive to school, it is important to quickly drop off your child and make way for the cars waiting behind you. This is not the time to give your child a bus pass, absence note, lunch money, etc.

· ALWAYS DRIVE SLOWLY

· STOP AT THE DESIGNATED LOCATIONS

· NEVER DOUBLE PARK

· DO NOT PASS A STOPPED SCHOOL BUS WHEN LIGHTS ARE FLASHING

· DO NOT PARK IN THE FIRE ZONE!

· PARKING IN HANDICAP SPACES IS BY PERMIT ONLY

Each elementary student is assigned to a particular bus for transportation purposes. Whenever a child is in attendance, it is assumed that he/she will be returning home on that designated bus. The school must be notified using the School Dismissal Manager system. Unless an exception is noted in School Dismissal Manager by 1:00 pm, a child will be put on his/her own bus.

Requests to ride a bus other than the one to which the student has been assigned can be granted under the following conditions:

· The change was noted as an exception in School Dismissal Manager by 1:00 pm

· Requests under this regulation shall not require additional expense.

· Normal bus service shall not be disrupted nor shall crowded or unsafe conditions be permitted as a result of these additional services.

· Safe, courteous behavior on the part of every child is expected at all times. To insure the safety and comfort of all children who ride our buses, rules for riding the bus are sent out by the school district and are strictly enforced.

The prerogative of denial be maintained by the principal if bus discipline is a problem or if buses are overcrowded.

School Dismissal Manager (SDM)

All elementary schools use an online dismissal system, called School Dismissal Manager (https://www.schooldismissalmanager.com), to help manage the after school dismissal routine. The Chappaqua School District establishes an account for each family. Families use the account on a daily basis to maintain a child’s dismissal plans. A student’s “default” dismissal plan will be his/her regular bus. “Daily” or “recurring” changes to this plan, called an “exception,” are able to be made by logging in to School Dismissal Manager and following the prompts on the screen. A link to School Dismissal Manager is on each school’s homepage. The cut-off time for entering daily dismissal changes is 1:00 PM. In order for us to effectively communicate dismissal changes, it is imperative that this information is entered before 1:00 PM. After 1:00 PM, no additional changes will be made unless it is an emergency.

Pick Up

Grafflin - If you must pick up your child, please park in the visitors’ parking lot. Sign yourself in (not necessary after 3:20) and proceed to the cafetorium to wait the arrival of your child(ren). Students wait at tables in the cafetorium with students from their grade. Parents must sign out their child(ren). Once you have signed out your child you may exit the building using the doors by the cafetorium.

Roaring Brook - If you must pick up your child, please park on the upper blacktop and sign your child out with the designated staff member located in the Art Wing.

Westorchard - If you must pick up your child at dismissal, please drive to the back of the school, park your car (legally in a parking space) and enter the school through the back door (at 3:15). Parents who wish to pick up their children at 3:30pm may enter the front parking lot after the buses have departed. All children will be in the cafetorium waiting to be signed out.

Drop Off

Children may not arrive at school before 8:40 a.m. There is no one to supervise them until that time.

Reminders:

· Pull up to the curb at the drop off area.

Grafflin: Entry Circle
Roaring Brook: Upper Blacktop
West Orchard: Curbside at Kindergarten Playground

· Students should exit vehicles on the curb side only.

· Parents should not exit the vehicle.

If you need to get out of the car to help your child, please park in a parking space and walk your child to the sidewalk.

Bus Video

A bus safety video produced by Chappaqua’s Bus Safety Implementation Committee is available at each elementary school. Parents are asked to review and reinforce bus safety with their children. Please refer to Expected Behaviors on the Bus document (p. 17).

Zone Monitor

In order to assure a safe bus program, it is an expectation that all Chappaqua parents will supervise the children at the bus stops, both going to and returning from school.

Expected Behaviors on the Bus

Getting to the Bus

Walk to your bus.
Stay out of danger zone.

Sitting on the Bus

Sit down right away and put seat belt on.
Stay seated when bus is in motion.
The first students to enter a seat must move in towards the window.
No seats are to be saved.
The back seats of the bus are reserved for 4th graders (2 per seat). However, this is a privilege that can be taken away at any time if 4th graders do not behave in the back of the bus.

Behavior on the Bus

Use indoor voices.
No use of bad language.
There is not eating or drinking on the bus.
Keep hands and feet to yourself.
Listen to and follow directions from teachers and bus drivers.
Use kind words and let the bus driver know if there is a problem.
There is no teasing or put-downs
There are no toys allowed on the bus.
There is not spitting or biting.

School Closing

Inclement Weather

NCCTV (channels 75/77/78) carry weather delays or closings. Westchester News channel 12 also has this information. Radio stations that provide this information are: WFAS (1230 AM), WLNA (1420 AM), WHUD (100.7 FM), WFAS (103.9 FM).

In addition, the District uses the AlertNow* Communication service to send emergency, general and weather related notifications to our families via email, voice and text messaging. Families are automatically included in the notification system once student enrollment is complete. (*The AlertNow communication service is provided by a third party. The District disclaims any liability regarding the provision of such service by AlertNow.)

Delayed Opening - 2 hours

The two-hour delay will be used only when it appears that travel to school will be safe two hours from the regularly scheduled time for the opening of school. Please listen to a local radio station when the weather is threatening. Do not call the school to inquire about delays or cancellations. The entire transportation system, faculty reporting time, and student reporting times will operate exactly two hours later than normal. Therefore, if a student usually has a scheduled bus at 8:15 a.m., that bus will run at 10:15 a.m. Dismissal times and afternoon bus schedules on delayed opening days will be at their usual hours.

Emergency Early Dismissal

Decisions to close school for storms, heating problems, or other emergencies during the school day may have to be made. In the event of an emergency early dismissal, the Chappaqua Schools will send all students home on their assigned busses.

To receive notification about school closings, early dismissals, calendar updates, newsletters, budget information and other school-related matters by e-mail, sign up on our website.

Student Conduct

Playground Rules

After lunch the students go out on the playground unless excused by a doctor. Supervision is provided. On stormy days arrangements are made for the students to be indoors. Students should dress appropriately on days when they will be outside. Each school establishes its own playground rules according to the playground facilities available. However, in all cases, children must remain in their assigned play areas. Because of the hazards to other children, hard baseballs are not allowed on school grounds.

CCSD Elementary Guiding Principles

We believe that all CCSD community members should be

SAFE, KIND, and ACCEPTING

BE RESPONSIBLE

Do what’s right, not what’s popular
Follow school rules even when no one is watching
Accept the consequences of your actions
Follow through on what you say and do
Admit when you do something wrong

BE KIND

Work cooperatively with other students, teachers, and staff
Treat school and other people’s property with care
Show kindness for everyone in the school community: yourself, other students, teachers, staff, monitors, bus drivers, custodians, and guests
Work and play together without fighting, teasing, or name-calling
Think about other people’s feelings
Be aware that each of us is special in our own way – celebrate our differences.

CCSD Elementary Building Expectations

Students are expected to follow specific rules that their teachers have established in their classrooms. However, there are other times throughout the day when students are not in their classrooms. The following are expected behaviors:

Expected Behaviors in Common Areas (Hallways, Wings, and Restrooms):

Walk quietly in the hallways.
Use a quiet voice.
Be respectful of everyone.
Be respectful of all posted materials.

Expected Behaviors in the Cafeteria

Walk in a calm and orderly way.
Wait patiently for your turn.
Listen carefully to all adults.
Use a quiet voice and good table manners
Eat a healthy lunch and remember – please do not share food.
Clean your table area before leaving the cafteria

Expected Behaviors during Recess

Listen to adults and treat them respectfully
Play safely and fairly.
Be considerate of the rights and feelings of others. Bullying (including teasing, excluding others or hitting) is not permitted.
Play within the designated areas and remain visible to supervisors at all times.
Use the equipment properly.

Range of Consequences are part of the Student Code of Conduct

1. Oral warning;	School personnel
2. Written warning	Teacher, PPS, guidance, administrator
3. Oral or written notification to parents;	Teacher, PPS, guidance, administrator
4. Detention;	Teacher, administrator
5. Parent conference;	Teacher, PPS, guidance, administrator
6. Probation;	Administrator
7. Confiscation;	School personnel
8. Reprimand;	Teacher, PPS, guidance, administrator
9. Removal of privileges;	Administrator
10. Restitution;	Administrator
11. Removal, cover up, replacement of offending clothing and/or accessories;	Teacher, PPS, guidance, administrator
12. Removal from classroom;	Teacher, principal, administrator
13. Academic penalties;	Administrator
14. Suspension from transportation;	Principal, superintendent
15. Suspension from athletic participation;	Administrator
16. Suspension from social, extra-curricular, or other school-related activities;	Administrator
17. Exclusion from a particular class;	Administrator
18. Restricted study/alternative learning site (In-School Suspension);	Principal
19. Suspension from school for up to five (5) school days;	Superintendent, Board of Education
20. Suspension from school in excess of five (5) school days;	Superintendent, Board of Education
21. Suspension from school for at least one (1) year;	Superintendent, Board of Education
22. Placement in an interim alternative educational setting for a period of up to forty-five (45) school days;	Superintendent, Board of Education
23. Permanent suspension (expulsion)	Superintendent, Board of Education
24. Police, court, or social agency referral	Administrator, Board of Education

Chappaqua Central School District

Policy # 5052

Harassment, Bullying and Discrimination Prevention and Intervention Policy

Plain Language Summary – Elementary

The Chappaqua Board of Education wants to ensure safe and positive schools for all students. To do that, the Board requires all students to treat others as they would like to be treated. No student is allowed to bully or harass any other student at school, on a school bus, or at any school event.

Bullying or harassing is behavior that creates an unfriendly or hurtful environment for another person. Sometimes bullying can be a single, very serious incident, and sometimes it is a behavior that happens several times. Bullying behavior can be threatening or hurtful language. It can be calling another student a hurtful name. It can be hitting another student in an effort to hurt that student. It can even be excluding a student from an activity in which that student would like to be included. These behaviors might cause a student to be afraid, or to be upset, or they might get in the way of a friendly, safe school environment.

Bullying or harassing behavior is sometimes based on a person’s race, color, weight, nationality, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender, or sex. Bullying or harassing someone for one of these reasons is also called discrimination and it is forbidden in our schools.

All students and staff will have the opportunity in school to learn about discrimination and about harassing and bullying behavior, so that they can recognize the behavior, so that they can help to prevent these things from starting, and help to end them if they ever do start. All students and staff have a responsibility to report any incidents of bullying or harassing behavior that they witness. In every school, the Assistant Principal is someone to whom students can report. But students should also know that any adult in the school is a safe person to whom they can speak.

When incidents are reported, they will be investigated. If students are found guilty, they will receive a clear notice about what they have done wrong, they will receive support in school so that they don’t do it again, and they will be disciplined in a way that is appropriate and according to the Student Code of Conduct. The school will also keep records of such incidents. Students who report such events or participate in an investigation have the right to be safe from any kind of retaliation or harm as a result of their participation

Any student who hears about, sees, or believes he/she is the victim of an act of bullying, harassment, or discrimination should make a report as soon as possible to a member of the school staff. There is a form available on the school district’s web site for making such reports. If the form is used, it should be given to the school’s DASA Coordinator (typically the Assistant Principal), the Building Principal or the Superintendent of Schools

Plain Language Summary of CCSD Code of Conduct for Elementary Schools

Statement of Philosophy and Purpose

Our community of teachers/learners believes that the primary goal of education is to develop thinking, attitudes, and skills in our students so they can become intelligent and responsible lifelong learners. In order to help us achieve this goal, we have developed a student code of conduct to help adults be consistent in setting expectations and responding to different behaviors and help to make informed decisions, be accountable for their actions, and understand the consequences of their behavior.

Our code of conduct encourages positive behavior and embraces the core principles provided by our district-wide Tools for Life’s Challenges program. These values include: community, respect, gratitude, sharing, reflection, friendship, praise, honesty, patience, and courage. Specific desired behaviors that are clearly defined within this document will be fostered by role modeling, positive reinforcement and instruction integrated into the various disciplines. Unacceptable behaviors and the consequences for them are also clearly spelled out.

Please acquaint yourself and your child(ren) with the code of conduct, so school and home can be on the same page. Working together we can provide a safe and nurturing educational program in the present that prepares each of our children for their futures as constructive members of society.

Role of Students

Conduct themselves in an appropriate manner with consideration of welfare of others.
To know the school rules and obey them and accept responsibility for his/her actions.
To help in promoting order and in reporting incidents to the responsible adult.

Role of Parents

To promote a climate of respect, dignity and cooperative relationships.
To know school rules and help their children know and follow them.
To cooperate with the school in jointly resolving any school related problems.

Role of Staff

To promote a climate of mutual respect, regardless of race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender and sex.
Seek to develop cooperative relationships with building staff and parents for the educational benefit of students.
To report to the principal or his/her designee any student who violates the code of conduct or jeopardizes his or her own safety or the safety of others.

Role of Principal

To develop a sound and healthful atmosphere of mutual respect.
To collaborate with teachers and parents in supporting students.
To be responsible for the dissemination and enforcement of the student code of conduct.
To ensure that students are provided with fair, reasonable and consistent discipline.
To comply with State and Federal Laws.

Dear Families:

Please review this Plain Language Version of the Code of Conduct with your child. Please make him / her aware of our school’s expectations and guidelines. All rules are designed to ensure a community that values safety, acceptance and being a helpful member of the community. This Plain Language version of the Code of Conduct was developed in accordance with the district’s code of conduct. Please follow the link for additional information.

http://www.ccsd.ws/policies.cfm?sid=388

Thank you and we look forward to another rewarding school year!

Sincerely,

Jim Skoog Alissa Stoever

Principal Interim Assistant Principal

Carol Bartlik Debbie Alspach

Principal Assistant Principal

Doreen O’Leary Ross Cooper

Principal Assistant Principal

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Chappaqua Central School District

Student Code of Conduct Policy #5030

Dignity for All Students Act Policy #5052

By signing below, I acknowledge that I have reviewed a copy of the Chappaqua Central School District Policy #5030 – Student Code of Conduct Policy and Policy #5052 – Harassment, Bullying and Discrimination Prevention and Intervention Policy with my child. My child will also been given an explanation in school of what both policies mean in plain language and how it governs behavior in school. We recognize that it is our responsibility to read and understand this policy. We also understand our responsibility to report immediately to school staff any acts of harassment or bullying that we witness or of which my child is a victim. Finally, we have been made aware that there is a form available on the school district’s web site that we may use to report any incidents of bullying or harassment.

If we have any questions, we will ask them of our school’s DASA Coordinator (our school’s Assistant Principal).

Student’s Name: ________________________________________ Grade Level:_____________

Student’s Signature (Gr. 2-4):____________________________________________

Student’s School: _____________________________________________________

Parent/Guardian’s Name: ________________________________________________

Parent/Guardian’s Signature: ____________________________________ Today’s Date: ________________

PLEASE RETURN TO MAIN OFFICE IN SCHOOL

Safety

Security Procedures

The physical safety of our students, as well as the emotional comfort level of a school, is critical. All exterior building doors will remain locked throughout the entire school day. Staff and students have been instructed to not open doors for any visitor. All visitors to the building must enter through the main entrance where they will be identified and “buzzed in” by the office staff. The following guidelines are in place:

· All visitors, including parent volunteers, are required to sign in, obtain and wear a visitor’s badge.

· Signs are posted at the doors, requesting visitors to report to the main office.

· All changes to a student’s dismissal plan must be entered into School Dismissal Manager (SDM) by 1:00 PM.

· A child taken out of school during the school day will need to be signed out in the main office - student name, adult name, date, time and purpose.

SAVE Legislation

In July 2000, the State of New York enacted the Safe Schools Against Violence in Education law (SAVE) mandating school districts to review and evaluate current policies and practices that address issues of school safety. The Chappaqua Central School District, in response to the passage of Project SAVE legislation, has developed a District-wide School Safety Plan at the direction of the Board of Education. The Plan has been developed, reviewed and evaluated by a District-wide School Safety Team appointed by the Chappaqua Board of Education. The Plan, approved on June 19, 2001 by the Board of Education includes the District’s Code of Conduct, is available elsewhere in this booklet. It, and other Board Policies, are located on the District’s website. The Code of Conduct is reaffirmed annually at the Board’s reorganization meeting. Revisions to the Code are presented at regular meetings of the Board for public comment and discussion prior to adoption by the Chappaqua Board of Education.

Smoking Prohibition Policy 7030 (excerpt)

The Board of Education recognizes that smoking represents a health and safety hazard which can have serious consequences for the smoker and the non-smoker alike, as well as for the District’s buildings and grounds.

Because of the Board’s concern for the well-being of students, staff, visitors and guests, as well as for District property, smoking is prohibited in all District buildings, in all school district vehicles, whether owned, rented, or leased, and on all school properties.

This prohibition will be in effect 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and will apply to everyone including students, visitors and/or participants in any activity sponsored by outside organizations which use school facilities.

Miscellaneous

Building Planning Teams

Each of the six schools in the Chappaqua School District has a Building Planning Team (BPT). The role of this shared decision-making committee is to make decisions resulting in higher student achievement and to set goals for the year which will facilitate children’s learning. The BPT members include parents, teachers, administrators and support staff who serve staggered two-year terms.

Lunch at School

Children may bring or buy their lunch. A monthly menu with daily selections listed, as well as nutritional guidelines adopted by the Board of Education on August 2, 2005, can be found on the District webpage at www.ccsd.ws, under the “What’s for Lunch?” link. Hot and cold choices are offered daily. School lunches are planned to ensure a balanced diet. Those children who bring their lunch may buy milk, juice, snack and/or dessert.

An electronic debit card system is available for lunches. You may prepay for as many meals as you would like by sending in money or a check made payable to Chappaqua School Lunch. Unless your child uses a debit card, please be sure your child has lunch or lunch money before leaving home each day.

Parents can access MySchoolBucks.com, an online system, also available on the District webpage under “What’s for Lunch?”- Prepayment Service, to view their child’s in-school food purchases and to make credit card payments to their child’s lunch account.

While in the lunchroom, the children are expected to remain seated with their class. They must raise their hand and ask permission to leave the table. Behavior such as running or tossing objects is unacceptable in the lunchroom. Teacher aides supervise the lunchroom each day and report serious infractions of rules to the Assistant Principal.

Safer, Smarter Kids

This curriculum follows a developmentally appropriate sequence of instruction for elementary school students, helping children develop skills to stay safe as their world expands. Children are armed with protective principles and vocabulary to express their feelings and talk to a trusted adult. Safety Topics Covered:

Safety awareness,
Respecting yourself and others,
Developing self-esteem, Assessing safe vs. unsafe situations,
Understanding rules and responsibilities
Identifying and protecting body boundaries
Listening to a guiding voice
Accessing help and trusted adults
Determining safe vs. unsafe secrets
Determining safe vs. unsafe touches
Practicing cyber safety and digital citizenship Establishing personal power and influence.

The curriculum allows for all children to effectively learn these critical strategies, no matter their learning style. There is also a parent component that will be introduced before each lesson.

CCSD Board Policies

The following includes the full text or excerpts of frequently referenced Chappaqua Board of Education policies. The Board policy manual is available online (www.ccsd.ws), in each school building, the Chappaqua Library, and at the District Clerk’s office in the Education Center. For further information on policies and updates on policies currently under review, contact the District Clerk at the Education Center, 914-238-7200 x1002.

Nondiscrimination Policy 0120 (excerpt)

Statement of Nondiscrimination/Equal Opportunity Policy

The Board of Education, its officers, employees, volunteers and business invitees shall not discriminate against any student, employee or applicant on the basis of age, race, creed, color, national origin, sexual orientation (actual or perceived), military status, sex, disability, genetic predisposition or carrier status, or marital status in its educational programs or employment practices. Rev. May 1, 2011

Section 504/Title II A.D.A (Americans with Disabilities Act) Compliance and Appeal Procedures Policy 3040 (excerpt)

The Board recognizes that qualified individuals with disabilities, as well as those regarded as such, are entitled to enjoy equal access to School District programs and activities. It is the policy of the School District to adhere to the requirements of §504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. §794) [hereinafter “§504"], the Americans with Disabilities Act (hereinafter “A.D.A.”) and their implementing regulations (34 C.F.R. Part 104) in affording the rights and benefits called for in accordance with the law. Information concerning grievance procedures is available from Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources, Education Center, at 66 Roaring Brook Road, Chappaqua, NY 10514, or please call (914) 238-7200.

Student Code of Conduct Policy 5030

Introduction

The mission of the Chappaqua Central School District is to create a community for learning, in which students, parents and staff are joined in the pursuit of academic excellence, personal growth and responsible citizenship. The District’s objective in creating the Student Code of Conduct is to establish an orderly educational environment and to enable students to become responsible, respectful and caring citizens within the school and community setting.

The Student Code of Conduct defines individual responsibilities, describes unacceptable behavior and provides for appropriate disciplinary actions. All students are expected to treat other students, school personnel, business invitees and visitors with respect. The District will not tolerate behavior which infringes on the rights of others to learn or work productively in a safe non-hostile environment. The Code shall accomplish the following objectives:

· recognize and encourage acceptable behavior;

· identify, recognize and deter unacceptable behavior;

· promote self-discipline and help students to accept responsibility for their own actions, consistent with their readiness

· consider the welfare of the individual as well as that of the school community as a whole;

· promote a close working relationship between parents and the school staff;

· distinguish between minor and serious offenses, as well as between first time and repeated offenses;

· provide disciplinary responses that are appropriate to the misbehavior;

· outline procedures to ensure that the Code is administered in a way that is fair, reasonable and consistent;

· ensure every student’s right to reasonable due process when accused of misconduct;

· comply with the provisions of federal, state and local laws, as well as the guidelines and directives of the NYS Department of Education and the Board of Regents.

The Student Code of Conduct applies to any student behavior that occurs on school property, at a school function, or during a school sponsored trip, or which constitutes off campus misconduct, all of which terms are defined herein. The Bill of Rights and Responsibilities of Students (Policy 5020), Student Sexual Harassment Policy (Policy 5080) and School Policy on Alcohol and Drug Use by Students Participating in Sports and Extracurricular Activities (Policy 5005) provide additional guidelines and specific regulations although the Student Code of Conduct and its Administrative Regulations takes precedent over these policies and any related regulations.

The District believes that order and discipline are a shared responsibility between school, home and community. In accordance with State education law, this Student Code of Conduct was developed in collaboration with students, teachers, administrators, parent organizations, school safety personnel and other Board approved school personnel. It recognizes that the Board of Education is responsible for ensuring that the essential regulations are established and adequate discipline is maintained in the operation of the schools to effectively promote safety, as well as the social and educational growth of students. The Superintendent and administrative staff are responsible for the development of administrative regulations to implement the Student Code of Conduct. The District encourages a strong, cooperative relationship between school and home so that parents will provide the necessary structure to promote students’ social and educational growth.

Essential Partners

Parents, students, staff, faculty, administrators and the Board of Education are essential partners in providing an appropriate educational environment for all district students. A successful learning community depends on a shared commitment to education and to communicating respectfully with one another.

ROLE OF STUDENTS

· to conduct themselves in an appropriate and civil manner, with due regard for the rights and welfare of all others in the school community, as well as for District facilities and equipment and the property of others;

· to know the school rules and obey them;

· to accept responsibility for his or her actions;

· to help in promoting order and preventing school violence by reporting any person observed on school grounds or at a school function with a weapon, alcohol, or an illegal substance and to report any vandalism, harassment, discrimination or threat of violence to a school official or other responsible adult.

ROLE OF SCHOOL DISTRICT PERSONNEL AND CONTRACTOR EMPLOYEES

· to promote a climate of mutual respect and dignity which will strengthen each student’s positive self image;

· to report to the Principal or his/her designee any student who violates the Student Code of Conduct or jeopardizes his/her own safety or the safety of others.

ROLE OF TEACHERS

· to promote a climate of mutual respect and dignity which will strengthen each student’s positive self image, regardless of actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender or sex;

· to create a classroom environment that contributes to the total instructional program and to the student’s development of civic responsibility;

· to seek to develop close cooperative relationships with building staff and parents for the educational benefit of the student;

· to report to the Principal or his/her designee any student who violates the Student Code of Conduct jeopardizes his/her own safety, the safety of others, or who seriously interferes with the instructional program of the class.

ROLE OF THE PRINCIPAL

· to seek to develop a sound and healthful atmosphere of mutual respect;

· to collaborate with and support teachers and parents in working with students;

· to assume responsibility for the dissemination and enforcement of the Student Code of Conduct and Student Rights and Responsibilities and ensure that all discipline cases referred are resolved promptly;

· to ensure that students are provided with fair, reasonable and consistent discipline;

· to comply with pertinent state and federal laws governing hearings, suspensions and student rights.

ROLE OF DISTRICT ADMINISTRATORS

· to collaborate with and support building administrators in fulfilling their obligations under the Student Code of Conduct;

· to recommend to the Board of Education appropriate policy, regulations and actions to achieve optimum conditions for positive learning;

· to develop and implement an effective Student Code of Conduct supported by students, parents, staff and community.

ROLE OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

· to fulfill its obligations under the Student Code of Conduct;

· to annually review and approve the Student Code of Conduct, making changes, if necessary.

ROLE OF PARENTS

· to promote a climate of mutual respect, dignity, and cooperative relationships;

· to know school rules and help their children understand and follow them;

· to cooperate with the school in jointly resolving any school related problem;

· to assume responsibility for any financial obligations incurred as the result of their child’s damage to, loss of or destruction of property.

Definitions

Administrators - includes Principal, Assistant Principal, Athletic Director and Superintendent, or any such person designated as acting in such capacity by an appropriate official of the District.

Bullying or Intimidation - For purposes of this policy bullying shall have the same meaning as harassment.

Controlled Substance - is a drug or other substance identified in certain provisions of the federal Controlled Substance Act specified in both federal and New York State law and regulations applicable to this Code.

Cyber bullying - Cyber bullying is defined as harassment or bullying through any form of electronic communication. In order to be actionable under this Policy, cyber bullying that occurs off school property must create or would foreseeably create a risk of substantial disruption within the school environment, where it is foreseeable that the conduct, threats, intimidation or abuse might reach school property.

Discrimination - For purposes of this policy, the term discrimination means the denial of rights, benefits, justice, equitable treatment or access to facilities based on a person’s actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender (identity and expression) and sex.

Discrimination or harassment within the meaning of this policy shall include a single severe incident or multiple incidents that are pervasive in nature that create a hostile environment.

Firearm - pursuant to 18 USC 921 for purposes of the Gun Free Schools Act means (A) any weapon (including a starter gun) which will or is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive; (B) the frame or receiver of any such weapon; (C) any firearm muffler or firearm silencer; or (D) any destructive device. Such term does not include a non-functional antique firearm.

Harassment - For purposes of this policy, term harassment shall mean the creation of a hostile environment by conduct, verbal threats, intimidation or abuse including cyberbullying that (a) has or would have the effect of unreasonable and substantially interfering with a student’s educational performance, opportunities or benefits, or mental, emotional or physical well-being; (b) reasonably causes or would reasonably be expected to cause a student to fear for his or her physical safety, or (c) reasonably causes or reasonably be expected to cause physical injury or emotional harm to a student; or (d) occurs off school property and creates or would foreseeably create a risk of substantial disruption within the school environment, where it is foreseeable that the conduct, threats, intimidation or abuse might reach the school property. Acts of harassment and bullying shall include, but not be limited to, those acts based on a person’s actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender or sex. For the purposes of this definition the term “threats intimidation or abuse” shall include verbal and non-verbal actions.

Hazing - is any action taken or situation created by a student or group of students intentionally to produce mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment or ridicule in the course of another student’s initiation into or affiliation with any organization or group, regardless of the student’s willingness to participate.

Illegal drugs - mean any controlled substance except those legally possessed or used under the supervision of a licensed health care professional or that is legally possessed or used under any other authority under the Controlled Substances Act or any other federal law.

Inappropriate Dress and Grooming - any dress or appearance which constitutes a threat or danger to the health and safety of students or constitutes a disruption to the educational process, including, but not limited to, wearing any attire which is lewd, vulgar or indecent or contains any expressions or insignia that are: obscene or libelous; denigrates others on account of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation or disability; or promotes, endorses, or encourages the use of alcohol, tobacco, controlled substances, illegal drugs, or other illegal or violent activities.

Parent - means a parent, guardian, or person in parental relation to a student. Such definition shall also include those individuals identified as parents under Section 200.1 of the Commission of Education’s regulations with respect to students with educational disabilities.

Pupil Personnel Services Staff (PPS) - includes social workers, school psychologists, and Special Education and Related Services staff.

Off campus misconduct - any violation of the Student Code of Conduct which occurs beyond school property or outside of a school function that may endanger the health or safety of pupils within the educational system or adversely affect the educative process, in accordance with the decisional law of the Commissioner of Education.

School property - means in or within any building, structure, athletic playing field, playground, parking lot, or land within the real property boundary line of a Chappaqua Central School District elementary or secondary school or in or on a school bus, as defined in Vehicle and Traffic Law 142.

School function - a school-sponsored event or activity, regardless of location.

School-sponsored Trip - both field trips and extracurricular trips officially sanctioned by the District in accordance with Policy 4055.

Vandalism - the intentional or reckless damage or destruction of school property or the property of others, including, but not limited to, the marking, drawing or painting of school property with any impression or insignia that are: obscene or libelous; denigrates others on account of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation or disability.

Violent student - an elementary or secondary student under twenty-one years of age who: (1) commits an act of violence upon a teacher, administrator or other school employee; (2) commits an act of violence upon another student or any other person; (3) possesses a gun, knife, explosive or incendiary bomb, or other dangerous instrument capable of causing physical injury or death; (4) displays what appears to be a gun, knife, explosive or incendiary bomb or other dangerous instrument capable of causing death or physical injury; (5) threatens to use any instrument that appears capable of causing physical injury or death; (6) knowingly and intentionally damages or destroys the personal property of a school district employee, another student, or any person; or (7) knowingly and intentionally damages or destroys school property.

Weapon - means any firearm, rifle, shotgun, dagger, dangerous knife, dirk, razor, box cutter, stiletto, electronic dart gun, electronic gun, gravity knife, switchblade knife, pilum ballistic knife, knuckle knife, cane sword, billy, blackjack, bludgeon, metal knuckles, chuka stick, sandclub, wrist-brace type slingshot or slingshot, shirken or “Kung Fu star” or any weapon specified in Section 265.01 of the New York State Penal Law.

Disciplinary Actions

Staff members will deal fairly, impartially, and directly with an infraction of the Student Code of Conduct when and where it occurs. Those authorized to impose penalties will consider the factors such as student’s age; nature and circumstances of the offense; whether or not the student has been subject to prior relevant disciplinary intervention for similar and/or unrelated conduct; effectiveness of discipline; information from parents, teachers and others as appropriate.

In general, discipline will be progressive; a second violation will merit more severe consequences than the first, and so on. The District reserves the right to take the most severe action in a first event of serious misconduct and/or to notify appropriate law enforcement agencies if a student is suspected of engaging in conduct which would constitute a crime (see VIII. Reporting Code Violations).

The range of disciplinary actions for violations of this Code which may be imposed by the individuals noted below include the following:

1. Oral warning;	School personnel
2. Written warning	Teacher, PPS, guidance, administrator
3. Oral or written notification to parents;	Teacher, PPS, guidance, administrator
4. Detention;	Teacher, administrator
5. Parent conference;	Teacher, PPS, guidance, administrator
6. Probation;	Administrator
7. Confiscation;	School personnel
8. Reprimand;	Teacher, PPS, guidance, administrator
9. Removal of privileges;	Administrator
10. Restitution;	Administrator
11. Removal, cover up, replacement of offending clothing and/or accessories;	Teacher, PPS, guidance, administrator
12. Removal from classroom;	Teacher, principal, administrator
13. Academic penalties;	Administrator
14. Suspension from transportation;	Principal, superintendent
15. Suspension from athletic participation;	Administrator
16. Suspension from social, extra-curricular, or other school-related activities;	Administrator
17. Exclusion from a particular class;	Administrator
18. Restricted study/alternative learning site (In-School Suspension);	Principal
19. Suspension from school for up to five (5) school days;	Superintendent, Board of Education
20. Suspension from school in excess of five (5) school days;	Superintendent, Board of Education
21. Suspension from school for at least one (1) year;	Superintendent, Board of Education
22. Placement in an interim alternative educational setting for a period of up to forty-five (45) school days;	Superintendent, Board of Education
23. Permanent suspension (expulsion)	Superintendent, Board of Education
24. Police, court, or social agency referral	Administrator, Board of Education

Infractions and Potential Disciplinary Actions

Attachment I provides some examples of infractions and the potential consequences. The list is not intended to be all inclusive. The Board of Education reserves the right to review the list and modify, as necessary. Each infraction corresponds to a range of possible consequences. In addition, further guidance for infractions and disciplinary measures are referenced in the Athletic Handbook (for Horace Greeley High School, Bell Middle School and Seven Bridges Middle School) and the School Policy on Alcohol and Drug Use by Students Participating in Sports and Extracurricular Activities (Policy 5005).

Disciplinary Procedures

The due process a student is entitled to receive before a disciplinary action is imposed depends on the nature of the infraction. A school official empowered to impose a disciplinary measure shall inform the student of the alleged misconduct and investigate the matter in a way a reasonable person would deem fair. A student may have an opportunity to present his or her version of the facts to the appropriate school official prior to imposing the discipline. Removal of a student from the classroom by a teacher and suspension of a student from required attendance upon instruction shall be in accordance with Section 3214 of the Education Law and Section 100.2(l) of the Commissioner’s Regulations. Additional due process rights to which a student may be entitled are put forth in Administrative Regulations.

If a student’s conduct is related to a disability or suspected disability, the case may be referred to the Committee on Special Education (CSE). If a student with a disability receives an out of school suspension, the CSE will be notified by the principal or his/her designee. Any discipline will be administered in accordance with the section in Administrative Regulations relating to students with, or presumed to have, a disability. The suspension of students with educational disabilities shall also comply with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act and Part 201 of the Commissioner’s Regulations.

The suspension of a student with a disability pursuant to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 shall be in accordance with such law, as well as the decisional law of the Commissioner of Education. Such procedures shall be placed in Administrative Regulations and disseminated with the Student Code of Conduct.

Alternative Instruction

Pursuant to the Education Law, no student of compulsory school age (through school year during which student turns 16) shall be suspended from school in his/her regularly scheduled classes without being provided alternative equivalent instruction, either in the form of home instruction or instruction in an alternative setting. A good faith effort shall be made to provide such instruction immediately.

Reporting Code Violations

The District will report any acts of violence against persons that may constitute a felony or misdemeanor and other violations of the Student Code of Conduct which may constitute a felony to the appropriate local law enforcement agency. When necessary, the District will file a complaint in criminal court against the student. In addition, the District may report any violations of the Student Code of Conduct which constitute a misdemeanor to the appropriate authorities. When necessary, the District will file a juvenile delinquency petition or a person in need of supervision (PINS) petition in Family Court. The District shall submit to the State Education Department Violent and Disruptive Incident Reports (VADIR) for each school building on an annual basis.

Dissemination

The District shall provide copies of a summary of the Code to all students in an age-appropriate version, written in plain-language, at a school assembly to be held at the beginning each school year. The District shall provide a copy of the Code to all persons in parental relation to students before the beginning of each school year, and shall retain a written acknowledgement that the Code was received by the parents and student. Complete copies of the Code shall be provided to all teachers and shall be made available to all students, other school staff and other community members. The Board of Education shall review and update, if necessary, the Code annually. Any revisions to the Code will follow the same Board procedure used to adopt District policy and shall also include a public hearing. A copy of this Code and its Administrative Regulations will be posted on the District website and filed with the Commissioner of Education consistent with statute.

Rescinds: 5114.1 Disciplinary Code; 5114 Suspension; 5131.1 Early Identification and Resolution of Student Disciplinary Problem

Adopted by Board of Education: July 11, 2006; revised: May 22, 2007; revised October 10, 2012; June 19, 2013

Cross reference:

5020 Bill of Rights and Responsibilities

5005 School Policy on Alcohol and Drug Use by Students Participating in Sports and Extracurricular Activities

5080 Student Sexual Harassment

Athletic handbook

Attachment to 5030 Code of Conduct for Infractions and Range of Consequences

Infraction	Range of Consequences
Academic Misconduct
Assisting another student in any actions of academic misconduct	1, 2, 4-6, 9, 12-13, 15, 17, 19, 20
Cheating	1, 2, 4-6, 9, 12-13, 15, 17, 19, 20
Copying	1, 2, 4-6, 9, 12-13, 15, 17, 19, 20
Plagiarism	1, 2, 4-6, 9, 12-13, 15, 17, 19 ,20

Bus Misconduct
Distracting the driver	1-6, 8, 9, 14-16, 19
Pushing, shoving, fighting, engaging in excessive noise, damaging property or engaging in other behavior prohibited by this Code	1-6, 8, 9, 14-16, 19, 20, 24

Disorderly Conduct and Insubordination
Abusive language and/or indecent gestures directed at staff, students or visitors	1-6, 8, 9, 12, 15-20
Entry into the school building during or after school hours, without appropriate permission and/or supervision	1-6, 8, 9, 15, 16, 19
Excessive noise, littering, roughhousing, vulgar language, throwing food or running in the halls	1-6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 15-21, 23, 24
Food or beverages in prohibited area without appropriate permission	1-9, 12, 13, 15-20
Graffiti	1-10, 12, 15, 16, 18-20, 24
Inappropriate dress or grooming	1-6, 8, 9, 11, 15, 16, 19
Inappropriate public displays of affection	1-6, 8, 9, 15, 16, 19
Insubordination (refusing to follow a staff member’s direction, lying to a staff member or violating school rules)	1-6, 8, 9, 12-20
Lateness to class, lateness to school	1-6, 8, 9, 12, 13, 15-20
Parking in unauthorized area, parking without permission	1-6, 8, 9, 12, 13, 15-20
Theft of or damage to school or personal property	1-6, 8-10, 15-17, 19, 20, 24
Trespassing on school grounds during a suspension or expulsion	15, 16, 19-24
Unexcused absence from individual class of detention	1-6, 8, 9, 12, 13, 15-20
Unexcused absence from school	1-6, 8, 9, 12, 13, 15-18
Using a cell phone or any electronic device to record, store or transmit any information or images that infringe on the rights of others under this Code, or are disruptive or otherwise inappropriate in an educational setting	1-8, 12, 14, 15-20, 24
Violation of Acceptable Use Policy regarding computer and network access (reference Acceptable Use Policy for details)	1-6, 8, 9, 13, 15, 16, 18-20

Endangering the Safety, Morals, Health or Welfare of Self or Others
Activation of a fire alarm or report of a fire, bomb threat or other emergency from any location without valid cause; discharging a fire extinguisher without valid cause	3, 5, 6, 8, 9, 14-16, 18 -24
Arson	3, 5-10, 14-16, 18-24
Bullying, Cyberbullying or Intimidation, Provoking or encouraging another student to engage in a violation of Code of conduct	1-6, 8, 9, 12, 14-21, 23
Discrimination	1-6, 8, 9, 12, 14-21, 23
Committing an act which constitutes a crime	3, 5, 9, 14, 15, 16, 18- 24
Driving recklessly on school property (ie., speeding, failing to follow signs or directions)	1-6, 8, 9, 15, 16, 19, 24
Driving underclassman off campus during school hours without authorization	3, 5, 15, 16, 19
Extortion or knowingly receiving stolen property	3, 5-9, 14-21, 23, 24
Forgery, fraud or use of another person’s identity or cafeteria, library or computer account without permission (identity theft)	1-10, 12, 14 -21, 23, 24
Gambling	3-9, 14-16, 18-21, 23, 24
Graffiti or other postings depicting racial and/or religious epithets or slurs	3, 5-10, 12, 14-16, 18-20, 24
Harassment,	1-6, 8, 9, 12, 14-21, 23
Hazing	1-6, 8, 9, 12, 14-21, 23, 24
Leaving school property during school hours without authorization	3, 5, 15, 16, 19
Lewd behavior or sexually explicit behavior	1-6, 8, 9, 11, 12, 14-20
Possession of a weapon or displaying some object that could be construed as a weapon	3-9, 12, 14-24
Possession, sale, distribution, use or being under the influence of illegal drugs (or the paraphernalia required for the use of such drugs), counterfeit drugs, alcohol, any controlled substance including synthetic substances (without authorization) or a substance which the student believes or represents to be such a drug or alcohol	3, 5-9, 14-16, 18-24
Possession or use of fireworks or other incendiary devices	3-9, 12, 14-16, 18-24
Sexual harassment in violation of Board policy	1-9, 12, 14-21, 23, 24
Significant disturbances or disruptions during instruction, emergency drills or emergency situations	3-6, 8, 9, 14-16, 18-21, 23
Slandering or defaming others by making false statements or representations about an individual or identifiable group that harms the reputation of either or both	1-6, 8, 9, 12, 14-20
Smoking or the use of other tobacco products, including possession or use of e-cigarettes	3-9, 14-16, 19, 20
Vandalism or the intentional damage and destruction of property	3-10, 14-20, 24
Verbal, written or electronically communicated threats	3-6, 8, 9, 12, 14, 16-21, 23, 24

Violent Conduct
Any violent act against another student or person pursuant to the definition of a violent student	3, 5, 6, 8, 9, 12, 14-24
Fighting	3–6, 8, 9, 12, 14-24
Using or threatening to use any weapon or other device, instrument, material or substance that could cause physical injury or death	3, 5-9, 12, 14-24

Adopted by the Board of Education: July 6, 2006, revised May 22, 2007, October 10, 2012, June 19, 2013

Student Sexual Harassment Policy 5080

Introduction:

The Board of Education will not permit, condone, or tolerate sexual harassment, discrimination based upon actual or perceived sexual orientation and gender discrimination of its students. Sexual harassment is a violation of law and stands in direct opposition to District policy. This policy prohibits sexual harassment and discrimination based upon the actual or perceived sexual orientation of a student, as well as, gender discrimination intended to demean or intimidate a person or persons because of his or her gender. These prohibitions against the sexual harassment of students apply to the conduct of students, employees, officers, volunteers, business invitees and district contractor employees.

Definitions:

Sexual harassment is defined as conduct directed against a person of a different or same sex, because of his or her sex or actual or perceived sexual orientation, which creates a sexually hostile learning or school environment.
Sexual harassment that creates a hostile learning or school environment is either pervasive and/or one or more incidents of severe conduct that involves unwelcome: sexual advances; sexual conduct that constitutes a crime; sexual touching; indecent exposure of a sexual nature; sexual remarks, comments, displayed materials, printed materials, electronic media or jokes. Pervasive and/or one or more incidents of sexual conduct directed at any student by an officer, employee, volunteer, business invitee or district contractor employee shall be deemed to be unwelcome per se. Pervasive and/or one or more incidents of severe sexual conduct directed at students in grades K8 by any other student shall be deemed to be unwelcome per se. The determination of a hostile learning or school environment, in cases other than those deemed per se unwelcome (including students in grades 9-12), shall be objective, based upon the viewpoint of a reasonable person and subjectively perceived to be so by the complainant and shall be done on a case by case basis.
Sexual orientation is defined as heterosexuality, homosexuality, bisexuality or asexuality, whether actual or perceived.
Gender discrimination is defined as pervasive and/or one or more incidents of severe conduct intended to intimidate or demean a person or persons, or conduct which treats a person differently in the learning or school environment because of his or her gender.

Complaint Procedures:

A student, parent or legal guardian of a student, or any District employee who believes that a student has been subjected to sexual harassment or discrimination based upon sexual orientation or gender shall report promptly all incidents of such conduct to his/her principal or to the Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources through informal and/or formal complaint procedures developed by the District and contained in Administrative Regulations. If a student chooses to report to any other adult District officer or employee (coach, teacher, nurse, counselor, etc.), that adult is responsible for reporting the case to the principal or to the Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources. The principal shall promptly notify the Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources of all complaints of sexual harassment and discrimination based upon sexual orientation or gender. Upon receipt of an informal/formal complaint, the principal or the Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources shall initiate a prompt and thorough investigation using procedures developed by the District and contained in Administrative Regulations.

Should the complaint be about a District administrator, the Superintendent of Schools shall review and investigate the complaint. If the complaint is about the Superintendent of Schools, the Board of Education shall conduct all review and investigation activities.

All investigations shall be conducted promptly and in such a manner as to ensure confidentiality to the maximum extent permissible and that the complainant and/or any witness is not embarrassed or subjected to retaliation.

If the District's investigation supports the complaint, immediate and corrective action shall be taken. Should the offending individual be a school employee, appropriate disciplinary measures shall be applied, up to and including termination of the offender's employment in accordance with contractual and legal guidelines. Should the offending individual be a student, appropriate disciplinary measures shall be applied, up to and including suspension/expulsion pursuant to the District’s Student Code of Conduct.

The Board prohibits any retaliatory behavior directed against the complainant and/or witnesses. Follow-up inquiries by the Principal or Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources shall be made to ensure that the harassment or discrimination based upon sexual orientation or gender has not resumed and that the victims and/or witnesses have not suffered retaliation.

The Superintendent of Schools shall develop a regulation which further sets forth the procedure for filing and investigating a complaint. The regulation shall also assure the annual training of officers, employees and students regarding the policy and regulation.

Policy Adopted by Board of Education February 15, 1994, Revised: July 6, 2004

Bill of Rights and Responsibilities of Students Policy 5020

Student rights and responsibilities are fundamental to the creation of a community for learning in the Chappaqua Central School District where all are joined in the pursuit of academic excellence and personal growth in a caring environment. To that end, the District seeks to balance personal dignity and individual rights with the rights of others and communal/societal obligations in order to allow for the development of each student’s full potential in accordance with the Mission Statement of the Chappaqua Schools.

Rights:

The Chappaqua Central School District recognizes that it has the responsibility to assure students’ rights that are theirs by virtue of guarantees in federal and state constitutions, statutes and regulations, and the goals of the Mission Statement of the Chappaqua Schools. Education in a free society requires that students be aware of their rights and learn to exercise them responsibly.

To this end, students have a right to:

· a free and appropriate public education

· the pursuit of educational opportunities and extracurricular activities on an equal basis, free from illegal or improper discrimination, including discrimination based on race, creed, color, national origin, sexual orientation (actual or perceived), sex, disability, genetic predisposition or carrier status, and gender identity and expression

· learn in an environment free from interruption, harassment, discrimination, intimidation and fear

· the application of a disciplinary policy that is fairly and consistently implemented

· free inquiry and expression provided the rights of others are not diminished

· be informed of all school rules and regulations

· have and participate in student government

The Board of Education hereby directs the Superintendent to develop such regulations as may be required to specifically describe the rights afforded students in such areas as student expression, symbolic expression, student activities, student government, student clubs and extracurricular activities, privacy rights (search and seizure), and pregnancy.

Responsibilities:

The Chappaqua School District believes that students must assume the following responsibilities in order to receive the best education possible and ensure an appropriate, caring environment that respects the rights of all individuals learning and working in the school community.

To make that possible, all students should:

· accept responsibility for his/her actions

· respect the rights of others

· contribute toward establishing and maintaining an atmosphere that generates mutual respect and dignity for all

· take full advantage of the educational opportunities offered

· complete the course of study prescribed by state and local school authorities

· attend school on a regular and punctual basis

· complete class assignments and other school responsibilities by established deadlines

· assist the school staff in maintaining a safe school environment

· respect school property and the personal property of others and help to keep such property free from damage and theft

· obey school regulations and rules made by school authorities

· be aware of and comply with state and local laws

· dress and groom themselves to meet fair standards of safety and health and common standards of decency

· be familiar with this Policy and the Student Code of Conduct

Grievance and Appeal:

Students or parents who wish to appeal a decision made under this policy or have a grievance or a complaint about a school-related matter, school employee or other school official may submit a statement in writing along with supporting evidence to the school principal. The principal will meet with the students and/or parents to review the decision and consider all evidence within a reasonable time. The principal will resolve the matter within a stated period of time and communicate a decision in writing to all parties. If students and/or parents are not satisfied with the principal’s decision, they may present a written appeal to the Superintendent of Schools. The Superintendent shall respond in writing to all involved parties within a reasonable period of time. This grievance procedure shall not apply to grievances or complaints brought under the Student Code of Conduct, the Sexual Harassment Policy or regulations, or Section 504/Title II ADA Compliance and Appeals Procedures.

Students of the Horace Greeley High School may choose to seek Student Council support of their appeal/grievance through procedures established by the Student Council. Such procedures must be approved in advance by the administration before presenting an appeal to the principal or Superintendent.

Adopted by the Board of Education: February 10, 1986,

Revised: July 6, 1993, June 21, 1994, February 24, 2004

School Policy on Alcohol and Drug Use by Students Participating in Sports and Extracurricular Activities Policy 5005

All advisors and coaches are expected to immediately investigate any indication of alcohol or drug use by students involved in the activity they sponsor. Evidence of students using alcohol or drugs is to be reported to the appropriate assistant principal and, in the case of athletics, the Assistant Superintendent for Athletics. No disciplinary action is to be taken until the facts have been reviewed with the appropriate assistant principal and the student has been given an opportunity to make an oral statement in response to any allegations. If and when the student's use of alcohol or drugs has been confirmed, the following procedure will be followed:

First Occurrence:

Parents and student will meet with the advisor or coach and the assistant principal.
One week minimum suspension from the activity (seven days).
Student will meet three times with intervention counselor.
Incidents of suspected illegal activity will be reported to the Town Youth Officer.

Second Occurrence:

Parents and student will meet with the advisor or coach and the assistant principal.
The student will be dropped from the activity.
The student will be excluded from all activities until the assistant principal receives assurance that there will be no future use of alcohol or drugs, based on participation in an approved assistance program.
Incidents of suspected illegal activity will be reported to the Town Youth Officer.

Third Occurrence:

Parents and student will meet with the advisor or coach and the assistant principal.
The student will be excluded from activities at Horace Greeley High School for a full calendar year.
To be reinstated, the student must furnish satisfactory evidence of being drug and alcohol independent.
Incidents of suspected illegal activity will be reported to the Town Youth Officer.

The school may insist that students participate in a formal treatment program if there is evidence that the use of alcohol or drugs is habitual.

Adopted by Board of Education: February 10, 1986

Comprehensive Student Attendance Policy 5015

The Chappaqua Central School District shall maintain adequate attendance records verifying the attendance of all children at instruction. The District shall examine attendance patterns and develop effective intervention strategies to improve student attendance, if needed.

The District encourages each student to attend school on time and for the maximum number of days and instructional periods possible. To encourage attendance, the District shall utilize strategies including incentives for good attendance, disciplinary action for attendance lapses, and the establishment of attendance standards for earning course credit.

Record Keeping

Attendance record keeping shall be maintained in accordance with administrative regulation.
The District shall develop a coding system in administrative regulation that covers absence, tardiness, early departure, class cut, truancy, unexcused events and excused events.

Excused and Unexcused Absences

The Board recognizes the following as legal excuses for student absence.

Personal illness
Death in the immediate family
Religious observance
Required attendance in court
Approved school-sponsored activities, including field trips, interscholastic athletics, musical and other competitions
Directed or authorized presence at the Administrative Offices or Nurse’s Office.
Quarantine
Dental and medical appointments
Military obligations
Approved cooperative/work study program
College visitations only for juniors and seniors with the prior knowledge and approval of parents and counselors, so long as it does not exceed 4 days in a school year.

Parent/guardian should notify school officials in advance of any absence or lateness, where possible. The student need submit a written excuse, signed by a parent/guardian, on the day when returning to school following such absence. Any absence not covered by a written excuse within three school days shall be deemed an unexcused absence. Any absence or lateness/early departure not provided for on the excused list shall be deemed an unexcused absence.
At the secondary level, class cutting shall be deemed an infraction of the Code of Conduct in the nature of insubordination to the teacher and school administration. The Code shall prescribe a range of disciplinary interventions to address class cutting.
Whenever a student exhibits a pattern of unexcused absence, tardiness or early departure, notice will be given to the parent(s)/guardian(s), in writing and/or by telephone communication, and the student shall be conferred with by the classroom teacher and/or a guidance counselor regarding the pattern in an effort to remediate the underlying problem. Notice shall also be given to the Building Principal who may address the matter with the student and/or his/her parent(s)/guardian(s).
In the event that the school level interventions have not improved the student’s attendance, the Principal may recommend interventions such as a Person In Need of Supervision (PINS) petition to the Family Court and/or contact with the appropriate social services agency to initiate a neglect petition in accordance with the District’s Policy and Regulation on Child Abuse Reporting #9005 and 9005 R. Any mandated reporter who has reasonable cause to suspect educational neglect is required to make a report to the Statewide Register for Child Abuse and Maltreatment.

Course Credit Standard

High school students must regularly attend class to receive course credit. The maximum allowable absences per semester/year are as follows:

Course Meets	Maximum Allowable Absences
4 or more times per cycle per semester	8
4 or more times per cycle per year	16
3 times per cycle per semester	5
3 times per cycle per year	10
1 or 2 times per cycle per semester	3
1 or 2 times per cycle per year	6

Any high school student who exceeds the maximum number of absences in either a semester or year long course shall be ineligible for course credit unless an appeal is made and approved as outlined in section B. Any student who is not successful in the appeals process shall receive either a “W” or “W F” on his/her transcript to indicate that he/she was “withdrawn” or “withdrawn while failing”.

Students who have exceeded the class absence limit may present an appeal in writing, with supporting evidence to the high school principal or the principal’s designee. The principal or designee will meet with the student, review the absences and consider documentation that missed class and home assignments have been made up by the student. The principal will resolve the matter within 10 school days and communicate the decision in writing to all parties involved.
Make-up assignments shall be required to be completed for all excused absences within five school days of the student’s return to class. With the approval of the Building Principal, make-up assignments may be waived in exceptional circumstances or where a §504 accommodation is warranted.
The school will make every attempt to notify parents of absences which are accumulating at a high rate under this policy, however, it shall be the responsibility of the student and his/her parent/guardian to track absences or lateness/early departures. Students and parents who have questions about their status should contact the appropriate assistant principal.
Reasonable efforts shall be made to assist the student in addressing the causes of the attendance problem. Such efforts may include:

· Discussions with the student’s teacher or teachers.

· Discussions and/or meetings with the student and his/her parent(s)/guardian(s).

· Discussions with the student’s guidance counselor.

· Recommendation to the appropriate administrator for the suspension of extra-and co-curricular activity privileges.

Encouraging Student Attendance

With the approval of the Building Administration, and in consultation with student psychology or guidance services, teachers shall utilize attendance incentives (addressing not only attendance but also tardiness and early departure as well).

Oversight Responsibilities

The Building Principal and/or his/her administrative designee shall be responsible for reviewing student attendance records and initiating appropriate action consistent with this policy.
The Board of Education shall annually review building level student attendance records to determine if the comprehensive student attendance policy is effective. If a decline in attendance is evident, the Board shall review the policy as deemed necessary to improve student attendance.

Distribution of Policy

The Superintendent of Schools, at the direction of the Board of Education, shall publish to the community information about the District’s Comprehensive Student Attendance Policy. The policy shall be available and explained (to students through classroom discussions or assemblies and student handbooks). Each teacher, administrator, and new administrator or new teacher, promptly upon hire, shall be provided with a copy of the policy and any amendments thereto.

Policies are available in each school building, the Chappaqua Library, and the District Clerk’s office in the Education Center.

Adopted by Board: June 21, 2005; Revised: December 2, 2008, May 5, 2009; Cross Reference: 9005 and 9005Reg -Child Abuse Reporting

Harassment, Bullying and Discrimination Prevention and Intervention Policy 5052

The Board of Education is committed to providing a safe and positive teaching and learning environment. The Board recognizes that students’ ability to learn and to meet high academic standards, and a school’s ability to educate its students, are compromised by incidents of harassment, bullying, hazing or discrimination. The Board, therefore, condemns and strictly prohibits all forms of harassment, bullying, hazing, and discrimination on school grounds, school buses and at all school-sponsored activities, programs and events. Students may be disciplined for discrimination, harassment, hazing or bullying that takes place at locations outside of school grounds, including cyber bullying, which creates or would foreseeably create a risk of substantial disruption within the school environment where it is foreseeable that the conduct, threats, intimidation or abuse might reach school property.

Definitions

Harassment

For purposes of this policy, the term harassment shall mean the creation of a hostile environment by conduct, verbal threats, intimidation or abuse, including cyber bullying that (a) has or would have the effect of unreasonably and substantially interfering with a student’s educational performance, opportunities or benefits, or mental, emotional or physical well-being; (b) reasonably causes or would reasonably be expected to cause a student to fear for his or her physical safety ; or (c) reasonably causes or reasonably be expected to cause physical injury or emotional harm to a student; or (d) occurs off school property and creates or would foreseeably create a risk of substantial disruption within the school environment, where it is foreseeable that the conduct, threats, intimidation or abuse might reach the school property. Acts of harassment and bullying shall include, but not be limited to, those acts based on a person’s actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender or sex. For the purposes of this definition the term “threats intimidation or abuse” shall include verbal and non-verbal actions.

Bullying

For purposes of this policy, bullying shall have the same meaning as harassment.

Discrimination

For purposes of this policy, the term discrimination means the denial of rights, benefits, justice, equitable treatment of access to facilities based on a person’s actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender (identity and expression) and sex.

Cyber bullying

Cyber bullying is defined as harassment or bullying through any form of electronic communication. In order to be actionable under this Policy, cyber bullying that occurs off school property must create or would foreseeably create a risk of substantial disruption within the school environment, where it is foreseeable that the conduct, threats, intimidation or abuse might reach school property.

Discrimination or harassment within the meaning of this policy shall include a single severe incident or multiple incidents that are pervasive in nature that create a hostile environment.

Dignity Act Coordinators

There shall be a Dignity Act Coordinator for each school building. Each Dignity Act Coordinator shall be an Assistant Principal at his or her school, unless the Superintendent of Schools designates otherwise. In any event, each Dignity Act Coordinator shall be a staff member at his or her designated school. All Dignity Act Coordinators shall be trained in accordance with state requirements to successfully implement this policy. Such training shall include human relations in the areas of race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender (identity and expression) and sex.

Dignity Act Coordinators shall be responsible for coordinating and enforcing this policy and regulations in their school building, including but not limited to coordinating:

· the work of the building-level committees;

· professional development for staff members; the complaint process; and

· management of the Dignity for All Students Act’s civility curriculum components.

Training

In order to implement an effective harassment, bullying and discrimination prevention and intervention program, the Superintendent, each Dignity Act Coordinator and the district Professional Development Team shall incorporate appropriate and required training in the annual professional development plan. Training opportunities will be provided for all staff, including but not limited to bus drivers, cafeteria and hall monitors and all staff who have contact with students.

Through district-wide professional development and instruction, staff and students will be educated as to the warning signs of harassment, bullying and discrimination, as well as to their responsibility to become actively involved in the prevention of harassment, bullying and discrimination. The components of a prevention program include:

· learning about and identifying the early warning signs and precursor behaviors that may lead to harassment, bullying and discrimination;

· establishing clear school-wide and classroom rules about harassment, bullying and discrimination;

· training adults in the school to prevent and respond sensitively and consistently to harassment, bullying and discrimination;

· raising parental awareness and involvement in addressing problems;

· providing instruction in civility, citizenship and character education that emphasizes tolerance and respect for others.

Reporting and Investigation

In order for the district to appropriately address harassment, bullying and discrimination, it is of utmost importance that staff and students report such incidents. Students who have been subjected to harassment, bullying behavior or discrimination, parents of those students, or other students who observe such behavior are encouraged and expected to make a verbal and/or written complaint to any school personnel in accordance with the training and guidelines provided. All complaints will be documented, tracked and handled in accordance with the regulations and procedures accompanying this policy and other applicable district policy (Equal Opportunity and Nondiscrimination or Sexual Harassment or Student Code of Conduct) and laws.

There shall be a duty for all school personnel to report any incidents of student-to-student and staff-to-student harassment, bullying and discrimination that they observe, or of which they are made aware, to their building principal or other administrator who supervises their employment. Supervisors will refer the information to appropriate district staff for investigation, as designated in regulations.

The results of an investigation will be reported both to the target and the accused in accordance with the regulations. If either of the parties disagrees with the results of the investigation, they can appeal the findings to the Superintendent of Schools.

Disciplinary Consequences/Remediation

While the focus of this policy is on prevention, harassment, bullying and discrimination acts may still occur. In these cases, offenders will be given the clear message that their actions are wrong and the behavior must improve. Offenders will receive in-school guidance in making positive choices in their relationships with others.

If appropriate, disciplinary action will be taken by the administration in accordance with the district’s Student Code of Conduct, or applicable laws and regulations. If the behavior rises to the level of criminal activity, law enforcement will be contacted. If the behavior rises to the level of a reportable offense under applicable laws, the New York State Education Department and/or other appropriate agency will be contacted.

Consequences for students committing an act or acts of harassment, bullying and discrimination shall be determined on a case-by-case basis in accordance with the district Student Code of Conduct. The consequences will vary in method and severity according to the nature of the behavior, the developmental age of the student, the student’s history of problem behaviors, and whether the behavior is related to a disability as determined by applicable laws and regulations.

Non-Retaliation

All complainants and those who participate in the initiation or investigation of a complaint in conformity with state law and district policies, who have acted reasonably, honestly, and in good faith, have the right to be free from retaliation of any kind.

Dissemination, Monitoring, Review and Reporting

This policy, or a plain language summary, shall be published in student registration materials, student, parent and employee handbooks, and posted on the district’s website. A plain-language age appropriate version shall be included in the Code of Conduct. A harassment, bullying and discrimination complaint form will be developed and will be available on the district’s website.

Each year, as part of the annual review of the Code of Conduct, this policy will be reviewed to assess its effectiveness and compliance with state and federal law. If changes are needed, revisions will be recommended to the Board for its consideration.

The Superintendent of Schools shall establish regulations to facilitate implementation of this policy.

Adopted by Board of Education June 19, 2012; Revised: June 19, 2013

Social Media Policy and Regulation 9052

All communication between District staff, students and parents must be done using District email accounts and/or District approved platforms. A complete description of the policy and regulations is posted on the District’s website under the Board of Education tab.