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TopOak Street School
Parent/Student Handbook
2001 2002
Index
Franklin Public School Statement
Oak Street Mission and Vision Statement
General Information
Age of Admission
School Hours
Safe Arrival Program
Dismissal
Walkers and Drop off Procedures
Transportation Pay to Ride
Bus Pass Procedures
Winter Guidelines/Emergency Dismissal
Lunch refer to monthly schedule
Visitors to the School
School Safety
Telephone Usage
Lost and Found
Novelty Items and Toys
Asbestos
No Smoking
Religious Observances
School Site Council
PCC
School VolunteersCurriculum
General Statement
Conferences
Computer usage
Acceptable Use Policy
Internet
Removal of students from Health Class
Special Education
Summary of Regulations Pertaining to Student RecordsStudent Discipline Procedures
Basic Rules
Suspension
Exclusion/ Expulsion
Special Education - Discipline
Discrimination / Harassment
Drugs / AlcoholSchool Health Services
Absences Due to Illness
Absences Due to Extended Vacations
Insurance
Accidents-Illness at School
Physical Examination
Communicable Diseases
Pediculosis
Postural Screening
Medications
September 5, 2001
Dear Students and Parents:
It is our pleasure to welcome you to the Oak Street School. The teachers and staff join us in saying how happy we are to have you as part of the Oak Street Family. We are looking forward to a successful and satisfying year for both you and your child.
We are using this handbook as one means of communicating between the home and school. There are many policies, regulations, and services discussed in these pages. Please read and keep this handbook available throughout the year. Many of your questions have been anticipated and are discussed in some detail; however, we are always available to clarify any school matter.
Close cooperation between the home and school is essential to promote the best interests of your child. Parents are encouraged to visit the school and to attend the scheduled parent-teacher conferences. Should you or your child have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact your child's teacher immediately. Mutual benefits accrue when there is a meaningful exchange of information between home and school.
Our message for students is to encourage you to make the most of your school year. Your teachers are here to guide you and assist in your studies, but you must want to learn. You must be willing to cooperate and make the necessary effort to help your teachers help you.
Our message for parents is to state that our purpose is to assist your children in developing self-realization, responsibility skills, and knowledge that will enable them to be useful, contributing members of the school community today and the community at large tomorrow. Success depends to a great extent upon parents and teachers working together. Please become familiar with the contents of these pages for the best interests or your children.
It is our hope that this handbook will be helpful to you and that it will promote that understanding.
Sincerely,
Richard F. Gibbons, Principal
Corine Minkle, Principal
FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the Franklin Public Schools is to provide the environment and the resources to enable and encourage every student to become:
An individual who strives to achieve his or her emotional, intellectual and physical potential An enthusiastic lifelong learner who is self-motivated and inquisitive A critical and creative thinker who can communicate skillfully through a wide range of disciplines An effective collaborator/team member who can develop and maintain positive relationships A compassionate individual who understands the lessons of history, respects other points of view and appreciates differences A self-confident, responsible and active member of the ever-changing world community. OAK STREET SCHOOL VISION
To foster critical thinking.
To strive for academic excellence.
To promote lifelong learners.
Oak Street School creates a safe, nurturing, child-centered environment that promotes a variety of effective teaching and learning strategies, while fostering a positive self image for all learners. Students will achieve their maximum potential towards life-long learning based on their abilities, learning styles, and developmental stages. Our educational programs will meet students' needs and develop critical thinking skills, as well as emphasize academic excellence. Such excellence depends on diversity of perspective, a spirit of independence, and a community of trust. Oak Street School aims to create cooperative partnerships linking our school with the home and community.
GENERAL INFORMATION
The School Committee establishes the age of admission to the schools at five. Pupils shall be five years of age on or before August 31 of the same year to enter kindergarten and shall be six years of age on or before August 31 of the year the student enters Grade 1.
Underage students, who first establish residence in the Town of Franklin after the first day of school in Franklin, and who had been placed in kindergarten in the city or town of their former residence, shall be placed in kindergarten.
Underage students who have completed kindergarten in another city or town prior to their first establishing residence in Franklin will be placed in first grade.
Underage students, who first establish residence in the Town of Franklin after the first day of school in Franklin, and who had been placed in first grade in the city or town of their former residence, shall be placed in first grade.
For the purpose of this policy, a student is a resident of Franklin if the student actually resides in Franklin.
SCHOOL HOURS Grades K- 5 9:00 AM 3:10 PM
School starts at 9:00 AM. Teachers are on duty at 8:50 AM and children may enter the building at that time. Children are to arrive at the school between 8:50 AM and 9:00 AM. Please do not send your child to school earlier, as there is no supervision planned before 8:50 AM.
To ensure all children arrive at school safely, the Oak Street Elementary School has a “Safe Arrival Program.” The “Safe Arrival Program” will be in place to verify any unreported student absence as quickly as possible. The school attendance number is 508- 541- 5217. If your child will not be attending school, please call this automated number at any time prior to 8:30 AM.
All students will be dismissed promptly starting at 3:10 PM each day. Parents must notify the school in writing if their child is to go elsewhere other than home. If your child attends a regularly scheduled program, such as scouts or brownies, please send in a note each week to avoid confusion and ensure the safe dismissal of your child. As the buses are now filled to capacity, children will only be allowed to ride on their regular assigned bus.
WALKERS AND DROP OFF/ PICK UP PROCEDURE
Morning Drop Off by Car
All cars will enter the main high school driveway in single file and turn right into the faculty parking lot Inside the parking lot, all cars will turn right and proceed in single file along the back aisle and stop at the crosswalk Students will exit the cars as close as possible to the crosswalk and wait for the staff member to signal them to cross Cars will stop at the crosswalk and wait for the staff member to signal them to turn left and proceed out the main driveway Morning Walkers
Students will stay on the sidewalk as they enter the high school property Students will stop at the driveway to the faculty parking lot and wait for the crossing guard to cross them Students will continue along the sidewalk and stop when they reach the crosswalk at the main driveway Students will wait until the staff member signals them to cross the driveway and then proceed along the sidewalk to the Oak Street School door Afternoon Walkers
Walkers will be called first over the intercom Walkers will line up outside D House along the fence until attendance is taken Walkers will proceed to Oak Street under the direction of the Crossing Guard Afternoon Pick Up By Car
Cars will enter the faculty parking lot according to the morning procedure Cars will wait in single file in the parking lot until the last bus leaves the Oak Street School bus loop Cars will then be directed by a staff member to proceed into the bus loop to pick up the children Buses start arriving at school at 8:50 AM and dismissal begins at 3:10 PM. It is essential that no vehicles other than school vehicles enter the bus loop from 8:30 AM to 9:20 AM and 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM. This is an extremely important safety measure that must be followed. Thank you for your cooperation in this matter.
The Franklin School Committee revised the transportation policy in July, 2001. The policy that follows delineates the new eligibility requirements for free bus transportation.
All students in grades K-6 who reside more than 2.0 miles from their assigned school or do not have a sidewalk path between home and school will be bused. All students in grades 1-12 who must walk on active railroad tracks or across any Route 495 on ramp or off ramp intersections on their walking route between home and school will be bused. The Franklin School Committee has authorized a pay to ride option on a space available basis only. Parents who were interested in a pay to ride option had to notify the Office of the Superintendent before August 24, 2001.
Bus Rules: All parents and students should be aware that bus transportation is a privilege and may be suspended by the Principal at any time due to improper behavior. Upon suspension of this privilege it then becomes the responsibility of the parents to transport their child to and from school. Questions concerning transportation should be directed to the Principal's office.
Your child's safety is as important to us as it is to you. Behavior of students at the bus stops is the responsibility of parents. Therefore, to ensure the safest possible ride, the school requires that your child know and follow the appropriate transportation practices. These rules have been established for the convenience and safety of all students and riding on the bus is considered an extension of each student's school day.
- The driver is in full charge of the bus and the students. Students should obey the driver promptly.
- Students should wait in an orderly manner on the side of the road for the bus.
- If the driver feels it is appropriate, he/she may assign seats in the bus, and students will take the seats assigned.
- Students are to remain in their seats while the bus is in motion. Nothing, including hands and arms, is to be extended out the window.
- Nothing shall be thrown on or from the bus.
- There shall be no pushing, striking, shoving or general fooling around on the bus.
- The use of profane, abusive or inappropriate language is not allowed.
- Students are to keep the bus neat and are not allowed to mark, cut or break any part of the bus.
- Students are to obey the bus driver and not distract his/her attention from driving.
- Students are not allowed to eat on the bus and should not carry glass containers of any kind.
- Students will not smoke on the bus nor create any situation that will result in an open flame.
BUS PASS IMPLEMENTATION PROCEDURES
The following procedure has been adopted by the Franklin Public Schools.
“Bus passes are issued to each student who is eligible to ride during the first week of school. Students are expected to have their bus passes each day and to make sure that it is visible to the bus driver. In the event that a child forgets a bus pass in the morning that child will be given one day's grace. If that child does not have a bus pass the next day, he/she will not be allowed to board the bus.
In the event that a child loses a pass, there are temporary passes in the Principal's office. The child may use that pass until a replacement bus pass is issued. There is a $5.00 charge for a replacement bus pass.”
WINTER GUIDELINES/EMERGENCY DISMISSAL
School Closing and Emergency Busing - In the event that weather conditions require changes in normal school operations, these changes will be disseminated as soon as possible through early morning announcements on the following radio stations: WBZ am 1030, WPRO am 630, and WRKO am 680. The information will also be given to TV Channels WBZ (4), WCVB (5), WHDH (7).
The following are the changes in school procedure that may occur:
In the event that weather conditions dictate school cancellation, these announcements will be made on radio and television as early as possible.
2. Delay in School Starting Time
Depending on the severity and timing of winter storms, Franklin has sometimes adopted a delayed opening of one or two hours. This announcement will be made as early as possible and the specific length of the delay will be announced. For example, if school opening is delayed one hour, then both elementary and secondary school openings will be one hour later than normal. All pre-school programs will be canceled in the event that school opening is delayed.
3. Unscheduled Early Dismissal
In the event that adverse weather occurs or intensifies after school has begun, it may be necessary to release students earlier than normal so that buses can operate before the roads become more hazardous. In this event, all afternoon educational programs, activities and pre-school classes will be canceled. If possible, we will be putting on sufficient buses so that all students will have bus transportation home, consistent with our emergency busing plan.
We recognize that an unscheduled early dismissal may create some hardships on parents, particularly working parents. Therefore, we will only approve unscheduled early dismissals when early dismissal is warranted for safety concerns. While it remains the parents' responsibility to make provisions for the supervision of children in the event that those students are dismissed early from Franklin schools, we would like to make the following suggestions:
a. Establish a procedure with your children in the event you are not home. (Example: They are to go to a neighbor's house, etc.)
b. Be sure that your children know their address and phone number.
c. Children should know where at least one parent could be contacted.
d. Always update your Emergency Information Card. If you wish to add additional names to the emergency card, please notify the office in writing. The school will only release students to those designated on their emergency cards or other emergency related material.
In the event that there is a situation involving an individual Franklin street that constitutes, in the parent's opinion, an extreme safety hazard, parents have the right to
exercise their own discretion and keep their children home even though school is in session. The Superintendent's office should be notified of this limited safety hazard and the School Department will work with other town departments to ensure that this is corrected as soon as possible so that the children will not be kept home unnecessarily. If parents decide to keep their children home for a safety reason, the students will be marked absent and expected to make up work and do whatever is normally required for an authorized student absence.
Parents need to use their discretion in deciding whether or not to send their child to school during inclement weather conditions.
Our intent is not to send children home early, however, if you have concerns, you can dismiss your child before the regular scheduled time.
Oak Street School Unscheduled Early Dismissal Procedure
In the event that that it becomes necessary to dismiss early at the Oak Street School, we will attempt to contact all parents through a telephone tree staffed by parent volunteers. These volunteers will contact only those parents who wish to be part of the telephone tree. It is necessary for parents to complete the form in the front of this handbook to be added to the telephone tree.
Each child has the daily option of purchasing a regular lunch, which includes milk, for $1.25 or bringing a bag lunch from home. Milk may be purchased separately for 30 cents (consult the monthly menu).
For eligible families, free lunch or lunch at a reduced cost is available upon completion of necessary documents. Until forms have been completed, there is a grace period for those who have previously received free or reduced lunch. Forms must be completed annually.
A daily snack is allowed some time during the day.
Parents, accompanied by school personnel, are welcome to visit the school to observe classes and tour the building.To ensure the safety of the children and to avoid disrupting the educational process, these visits must be arranged through the principal's office. Parents bringing lunches or other items to their children are asked to leave these in the office to be distributed.
Procedure for Visitation of Class by Those Other than Personnel of the Franklin Public Schools
Only the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of a particular child or individual(s) authorized by parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of a particular child shall be permitted to visit and/or observe a class or classes or the particular child. An individual authorized by the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) is one who has the written permission from the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) to visit and/or observe the particular child's class.
In order for the parent(s), legal guardian(s), or individual(s) authorized by the parent(s), legal guardian(s) to visit and/or observe a class or classes of a particular child, the following procedure must be followed:
1. The parent(s)/legal guardian(s) must give prior notice to the principal of his/her desire to visit and/or observe a class or classes.
2. At the time notice is given, the parent(s), legal guardian(s) or individual(s) authorized by the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) must give a reason why the visit and/or observation is desired or needed.
3. In the event that the principal determines that the reason for the visit and/or observation is educationally sound and that the visit and/or observation would not disrupt the educational process, the principal will consult with the teacher(s) involved to ascertain the best time for such visitation and/or observation.
4. The principal would then contact the individual requesting the visitation and/or observation to inform him/her of the date of the visitation and/or observation.
5. If the parent(s), legal guardian(s), or individual(s) authorized by the parent(s), legal guardian(s) wish to discuss with the teacher what he/she observed or the educational development of the child, such discussion will take place at a mutually agreeable time outside of classes.
6. The administration of the Franklin Public Schools has the right to have an employee of Franklin Public Schools or a person designated by the administration of Franklin Public Schools present during the same class or classes which are being observed by the parent(s), legal guardian(s), or individual authorized by the parent(s) or legal guardian(s).
To help ensure the safety of all our students, the two inner courtyard doors and the two exterior A House and D House doors will be locked during the school day. Parents and/or visitors should enter through the D House door during the day. This door is equipped with a camera, buzzer and a monitor in both offices. We will continue to require all visitors to the school to come to the office, sign in, wear a school badge, and sign out before leaving.
Students need to develop responsibility to remember to bring all items needed to school. Unless there is an emergency, the children should not use the telephone to call parents to bring in homework, sneakers, etc.
Please label sweaters, coats, hats, mittens, lunch boxes, etc. When you send money to school, please put it in an envelope and label it with the name of the child, teacher's name, the amount of money and purpose.
A Lost and Found area is located in or near the Nurse's office in A House. Parents and children should regularly check for items that have been lost.
Children should not bring any items of monetary or personal value to school unless the teacher has requested it. It is very difficult to properly monitor the security of such valuables. Items that can be potentially dangerous should not be brought to school; e.g. hard baseball bats, toy weapons, hockey sticks.
From time to time, various novelty items are brought to school which not only interfere with the educational process but, in some instances, can cause injury to fellow classmates or damage to the items. Some examples of these are gum, caps, water pistols, radios, toys, Pokeman cards, Walkmans, fingernail polish, hairspray, makeup, etc. Students are advised that these or similar items or any type of toy are not to be brought on school buses or to school. This is to ensure the safety of the student as well as prevent possible damage to a toy and disruption to the educational environment of all students and staff.
ASBESTOS HAZARD EMERGENCY RESPONSE ACT
In compliance with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA), inspections of the Franklin Public Schools were performed during 2000 for asbestos-containing materials.
All inspection finds and the asbestos management plans have been on file with the Franklin School Department since the initial inspection. Management Plans and all other related information are maintained at the office of the Director of Administrative Services.
The EPA requires schools to have asbestos re-inspections every (3) years.
Complete results of the three (3) year re-inspections are on file in the Superintendent's Office.
The Franklin School Committee prohibits the use of any tobacco products within the school buildings, the school facilities, on school grounds or school vehicles including buses by any individual, including school personnel, consistent with Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 71, Sections 37H.
Students may be granted excused absences when the school schedule conflicts with religious holidays. A student may be required to submit written notification.
A student should not suffer adverse or prejudicial consequences from an excused absence; should be allowed a reasonable opportunity to make up school work missed due to the absence; will not be subject to penalty scholastically or to attendance records due to absences incurred due to religious observances. A sincere attempt will be made to avoid scheduling assemblies, tests and other special school events on religious holidays.
School councils have been formed in the Franklin Public Schools in accordance with the Education Reform Act of 1993. The councils are comprised of parents, teachers and community members. The school Principals co-chair the council along with an elected member.
The Education Reform Act has set guidelines for school councils. In general, it is the council's responsibility to advise the school principals about school matters and to help develop a yearly School Improvement Plan. If parents are interested in being a council member at Oak Street School, they should contact the school.
The PCC extends a warm welcome to you! We are an independent volunteer organization that endeavors to assist teachers and students, enhance the education process, offer family social activities and foster a proud school community. We meet on a monthly basis to discuss upcoming events at school, plan future activities, share ideas and socialize with other parents.
The PCC has a busy schedule throughout the year in providing assistance with special programs, volunteering time in a variety of ways during the school day and in fund raising events. Some of the activities include the Fine Arts and Science Enrichment programs, the Ice Cream Social, Open House at the beginning of the school year, a Pasta Dinner, Invention Convention, and Family Math Night.
Our school programs in the past have been successful because of the help from parent and adult volunteers. Volunteers have helped teachers by working with individuals and small groups of students and assisting with projects such as cooking, sewing, plays and creative arts. Parents have also assisted teachers with clerical chores, such as duplicating materials, collating and stapling papers, and laminating materials. If you wish to volunteer on a regular basis, please notify the office.
CURRICULUM
The goal of the elementary schools is to provide all students with equal opportunities to grow to their maximum potential academically and socially. While each elementary school in Franklin has its own “uniqueness”, the basic curriculum offered K-5 is the same. Detailed classroom curriculum information will be presented at the Open House for parents in mid September.
By working together, the school and the home can help children attain their maximum growth. The teachers, principals, specialists, and the school psychologist welcome conferences with parents. A conference by appointment saves time and avoids conflicts. Parent-teacher conferences will be on December 12, 2001 and December 20, 2001. Parents will receive written notice of these dates and a mutually convenient time will be arranged. Special and academic problems are adjusted more satisfactorily when discussed with the individual teacher. The Principals will be available for consultation when necessary.
FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS COMPUTER USE AGREEMENT FOR STUDENTS
Overview
With the expansion of computers and technology occurring in Franklin Public Schools, it is necessary to establish a set of rules to assure that the technology will be operational and available at all times.This agreement will assure the Franklin Schools' administration, faculty and staff that we are in mutual agreement with students and their parents as to what is acceptable computer and technology use.
Classroom and Computer Lab Rules
Students may use a computer only when there is a teacher, aide or volunteer present. No CDs may be brought in from home for use on any computers in the Franklin Schools without prior consent from the classroom teacher or the Technology Manager. No food, drink or gum is allowed at any time. Use of disks/diskettes
No disks owned by the Franklin Schools may be brought out of the school buildings. No personal diskettes will be allowed in any of the schools' computers except for those designated as resource computers. No files may be copied on to any of the schools' computers from a personal diskette or removable media. Any files edited on a computer must remain on the diskette or removable media (Zip drive, SyQuest drive, etc.). A student may not:
Write or draw anything profane, abusive, obscene, or not appropriate for school Record, copy, or import sounds that are profane, abusive, obscene, or not appropriate for school Alter any files on the computer except those owned by the user; no changing file or folder names, deleting files or folders, no moving files or folders Change any computer system setting including system files, desktop appearances and icons unless instructed to do so by a teacher or the Technology Manager Connect or disconnect any cables or peripherals unless approved by either a teacher or the Technology Manager Touch another student's computer or disk unless instructed by a teacher or the Technology Manager Use the computer or network for financial gain, for commercial activity, or for any illegal activity Remember that computer use throughout the Franklin Public Schools is a privilege, not a right. The administration, faculty and staff may deem what is inappropriate use and the decision is final. The administration, faculty and staff of the Franklin Public Schools may request the Technology Manager to revoke or suspend computer use for any student who misuses his/her computer privileges.
Franklin Public Schools Acceptable Use Policy
Internet access is now available to students and teachers in the Franklin Public Schools.
We are very pleased to bring this access to the Franklin Public Schools and believe the Internet offers vast, diverse, and unique resources to both students and teachers. Our goal in providing this service to teachers and students is to promote educational excellence in schools by facilitating resource sharing, innovation, and communication.
The Internet is an electronic highway connecting thousands of computers all over the world and millions of individual subscribers. Students and teachers have access to:
- 1. Electronic mail (e-mail) communication with people all over the world.
- 2 . Information and news from NASA as well as the opportunity to correspond with the scientists at NASA and other research institutions.
- 3 . Public domain software and graphics of all types for school use.
- 4. Discussion groups on a plethora of topics ranging from Chinese culture to the environment to music to politics.
- 5. Many university on-line library catalogs, Library of Congress on-line services, and ERIC resources and many other Internet resources of importance to educators and students.
- 6 . Graphical access to the WorldWide Web, the newest and most exciting access tools on the Internet.
Along with the advantages associated with access to computers and people all over the world come disadvantages, such as the availability of material that may not be considered of educational value in the context of the school setting. The Franklin Public Schools have taken precautions to restrict access to controversial materials. However, on a global network it is impossible to control the quality of all materials published there and an industrious user may indeed discover materials that are controversial. The Franklin Public Schools firmly believe that the importance of access to the valuable information available on this worldwide network far outweighs the concern that users may procure material that is not consistent with the educational goals of the Franklin Public Schools.
Internet access is coordinated through a complex association of government agencies, and regional and state networks. In addition, the smooth operation of the network relies upon the proper conduct of the end users who must adhere to strict guidelines.
These guidelines are provided here so that you are aware of the responsibilities you are about to acquire. In general this requires efficient, ethical and legal utilization of the network resources. If a student user violates any of these provisions, his or her account will be terminated and future access could/will be denied.
INTERNET TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF USE
The purpose of the backbone networks making up the Internet is to support research and education in and among academic institutions by providing access to unique resources and the opportunity for collaborative work. Internet access must be in support of education and research and consistent with the educational objectives of the Franklin Public Schools. Use of another organization's network or computing resources must comply with the rules appropriate for that network. Transmission of any material in violation of any national or state regulation is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, copyright material, threatening or obscene material, or material protected by trade secret.
The use of the Internet is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use will result in a cancellation of those privileges. The staff of the Franklin Public Schools will incorporate regulations for the use of technology and their rulings will be final. The administration, faculty, and staff of the Franklin Public Schools may deny, revoke, or suspend Internet access due to a student's inappropriate use.
You are expected to abide by the generally accepted rules of network etiquette. These include (but are not limited to) the following:
A. Be polite. Do not get abusive in your messages to others.
B. Use appropriate language. Do not swear; use vulgarities or any other inappropriate Ianguage. Illegal activities are strictly forbidden.
C. Do not reveal your personal address or phone numbers of students or colleagues.
D. Note that electronic mail (e-mail) is not guaranteed to be private. People who operate the system do have access to all mail. Messages relating to or in support of illegal activities may be reported to the authorities.
E. Do not use the network in such a way that you would disrupt use by other users.
F. All communications and information accessible via the network should be assumed to be private property.
G. No student may use the network or the Internet for personal/material gain or other unethical or unlawful purposes.
The Franklin Public Schools make no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the service it is providing. The Franklin Public Schools will not be responsible for any damages you suffer. This includes loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, miss-deliveries, or service interruptions caused by its own negligence or your errors or omissions. Use of any information obtained via the Internet is at your own risk. The Franklin Public Schools specifically deny any responsibility for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through its services.
Security on any computer system is a high priority, especially when the system involves many users. If you think you can identify a security problem on the network or the Internet, you must notify a staff member, teacher, principal, or the Franklin Public Schools Technology Manager. Do not demonstrate the problem to other users. You may not use another individual's network account; you may not download executable files or applications. Attempts to log on to the Internet or to the network as a system administrator will result in cancellation of user privileges. Any user identified as a security risk or having a history of problems with other computer systems may be denied access to the Internet.
Vandalism will result in cancellation of privileges. Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm or destroy data of another user, Internet resource, or any of the above listed agencies or other networks that are connected to any of the Internet backbones. This includes, but is not limited to, the uploading or creation of computer viruses.
REMOVAL OF STUDENTS FROM HEALTH CLASS
The Franklin School Department recognizes that some parents may be uncomfortable with certain aspects of the health curriculum presented to our students and we respect requests from parents to remove students from components of the course. In addition, we recognize that although our health curriculum outlines may appear to be subject specific and address material with which parents are comfortable, it is possible that classroom discussions may move in tangential directions, entering areas with which parents are uncomfortable. For that reason, we also respect parent requests to remove students from health class for the entire course.
It is our expectation that in cases like those cited above students will meet certain expectations which will allow us to reward them with the academic credit in health instruction the Franklin School Department requires for graduation.
The following is the procedure regarding teacher assessment of students who have been removed from health class for a unit, units, or for the entire course:
1. Parents must make their request in writing to the Principal if they wish to have their child removed from health class.
2. The parents will meet with the Principal and mutually agree to an alternative assignment(s).
3. An appropriate supervised place will be designated for the student in lieu of the health classroom.
4. The student's work will be evaluated by the health teacher.
Chapter 766 is the Massachusetts Comprehensive Special Education Law enacted in 1974. The law provides that students who are suspected of having special needs may be evaluated by a team of professionals. Prior to evaluation, members of the Special Services staff will work with regular education teachers to help modify the child's regular program, if necessary. The modifications suggested prior to the evaluation are often conducted as a result of a Building Based Support Team (BBST) meeting. The BBST is composed of, mental health professionals, classroom teachers and reading specialists.
If an evaluation is completed, the TEAM, of which parents are a part, will determine if the student is eligible for special services. For students who are identified as being in need of special education, a range of services is available within the Franklin Public Schools.
At the pre-school level, the Special Services Department provides a number of programs for children three years of age or older who are evaluated and found to have special educational needs. Classes at the pre-school level emphasize language acquisition and school readiness skills as well as socialization experiences.
Our school has services for children who require specialized remedial instruction as written in each of their Individual Educational Plans. Specialists in speech and language therapy, learning disabilities, and emotional and/or behavioral problems service designated children. In addition, the Special Services Department may suggest other specialized programs provided by other agencies.
SUMMARY OF REGULATIONS PERTAINING TO STUDENT RECORDS
The State Board of Education has adopted Regulations Pertaining to Student Records. The development of these regulations, which have the force of law, was mandated by state laws enacted in 1972 and 1974. The regulations apply to all public elementary and secondary schools. (They also apply to all private schools, which have state approval to provide special education services under Chapter 766, the Special Education Act.) They are designed to ensure parents' and students' rights of confidentiality, inspection, amendment and destruction of student records, and to assist school authorities in their responsibilities for the maintenance of student records.
The regulations apply to all information kept by a school committee on a student in a manner such that he or she be individually identified. The regulations divide the record into two sections: the transcript and the temporary record. The transcript includes only the minimum information necessary to reflect the student's educational progress. This information includes name, address, course titles, grades and credits and grade level completed. The transcript is kept by the school system for at least sixty years after the student leaves the system.
The temporary record contains the majority of the information maintained by the school about the student. This may include such things as standardized test results; class rank; school sponsored extracurricular activities; and evaluations and comments by teachers, counselors and other persons; as well as other similar information. The temporary record is destroyed within five years after the student leaves the school system.
The following is a summary of the major parent and student rights regarding their student records, as provided by the Regulations Pertaining to Student Records:
A parent of a student under the age of 14 has the right to inspect all portions of the student record upon request. The record must be made available to the parent or student no later than two days after the request, unless the parent or student consents to a delay.
The parent and student have the right to receive copies of any part of the record, although a reasonable fee may be charged for the cost of duplicating the materials.
Finally, the parent and student may request to have parts of the record interpreted by a qualified professional of the school, or may invite anyone else of their choosing to inspect or interpret the record with them.
With a few exceptions, no individuals or organizations except the parent, student and school personnel working directly with the student are allowed to have access to information in the student record without the specific, informed, written consent of the parent or the student.
The parent and student have the right to add relevant comments, information, or other written materials to the student record. In addition, the parent and student have the right to request that information in the record be amended or deleted. The parent and student have a right to a conference with the school Principal to make their objections known. Within a week after the conference, the Principal must render a decision in writing. If the parent and student are not satisfied with the decision, the regulations contain provisions through which the decision may be appealed to higher authorities in the school system.
The regulations require that certain parts of the student record, such as the temporary record, be destroyed a certain period of time after the student leaves the school system. School authorities are also allowed to destroy misleading, outdated, or irrelevant information in the record from time to time while the student is enrolled in the school system. Before any such information may be destroyed, the parent and student must be notified, and have an opportunity to receive a copy of any of the information before its destruction.
The above is only a summary of some of the more important provisions of the Regulations Pertaining to Student Records that relate to student and parent rights. If more detailed information is desired, a copy of the regulations may be obtained from the school.
To guarantee a good social and educational climate, it is important that each student understands that acceptable standards of behavior will be expected at all times. Discipline will be administered when any individual's actions interfere with the right of a teacher to teach and the right of a student to learn.
A student is reminded that any teacher or staff member in our school has the right to correct any unruly individual at any place and at any time.
The five basic rules of discipline are:
1. I will be courteous and speak politely.
2. I will treat people and property with respect.
3. I will ignore inappropriate behavior of others.
4. I will work as quietly as possible.
5. I will do all my schoolwork.
Teachers will have the rules and their consequences posted in their classrooms. They will explain the rules and consequences to their students. If a student is sent to the Principal's office, we may take one or more of the following actions:
- Hold a discussion with the student and /or teacher
- Request the teacher to contact parent by telephone or letter
- After school detention
- Require a written assignment from the student
- Personally contact the parent by telephone or letter
- Hold an in-school conference with the parent, teacher and student
- Require that the student be suspended in-school
- Require that the student be suspended from school
- Other
The following are some examples of student behavior that violate school policy when they occur at school or during school activities. This list is not intended to be all-inclusive. A student may be disciplined or suspended for any of the following violations:
- Possession, transmission, and/or use of tobacco, drugs or alcohol
- Insolence, disrespect, or insubordination
- Use of inappropriate language
- Fighting
- Rowdy Behavior - such as pushing or shoving at recess or in the school
- Leaving the classroom, school activity, or school without permission
- Class tardiness or truancy
- Vandalizing, damaging, or stealing school or private property
- Threatening, intimidating, or causing bodily harm to any person
- Any behavior on the school bus and/or school property that endangers the safety of any student or school member. If a student has received three (3) written bus reports for misconduct or behavior that endangers the safety of students, the student may be suspended for up to three (3) days at the discretion of the Principal.
At the Principal's discretion a student may be assigned to either an in school or out of school suspension.
While suspension from school is rarely used, in extreme cases it might be necessary when disciplining a student. Students are only suspended as a last resort. Prior to suspension, students may be given a teacher assigned detention or an office assigned detention. Parents will be contacted when the situation requires parental involvement. If a student is suspended, parents will receive written notification and be required to have a conference with the Principal before the student may re-enter school.
EXCLUSION/EXPULSION
The exclusion or expulsion of a student from school will be in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws. Chapter 71, Section 37H. The grounds for exclusion/expulsion include, but are not limited to, the following:
a. “Any student who is found on school premises or at school sponsored or school related events, including athletic games, in possession of a dangerous weapon, including, but not limited to, a gun or a knife; or anything in the commission of assault and battery; or controlled substances as defined in chapter 94C, including but not limited to marijuana, cocaine, heroin, maybe subject to expulsion from the school district by the principal.
b. Any student who assaults a principal, assistant principal, teacher, teacher's aide or other educational staff on school premises or at school sponsored or school related events, including athletic games may be subject to expulsion from the school district by the principal.
c. Any student who is charged with a violation of either paragraph (a) or (b) shall be notified in writing of an opportunity for a hearing; provided, however, that the student may have representation, along with the opportunity to present evidence with witnesses at said hearing before the principal. After said hearing a principal may, in his/her discretion, decide to suspend rather than expel a student who has been determined by the principal to have violated either paragraph (a) or (b).
d. Any student who has been expelled from a school district pursuant to these provisions shall have the right to appeal to the Superintendent. The expelled student shall have ten days from the date of expulsion in which to notify the Superintendent of his/her appeal. The student has the right to counsel at a hearing before the Superintendent. The subject matter of the
appeal shall not be limited to a factual determination of whether the student has violated any provisions of this section.
e. When a student is expelled under the provisions of this section and applies for admission to another school for acceptance, the superintendent of the sending school shall notify the superintendent of the receiving school of the reason for the pupil's expulsion.”
PROCEDURES FOR DISCIPLINING STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
All students are expected to meet the requirements for behavior as set forth in the student handbook. Chapter 71B of the Massachusetts General Laws, known as Chapter 766, requires that additional provisions be made for students who have been found by an evaluation team to have special needs and whose program is described in an Individualized Educational Plan (IEP).
The IEP for every special needs student will indicate whether the student can be expected to meet the regular discipline code or if the student's handicapping condition requires a modification. Any modification will be described in the IEP.
MEMORANDUM FROM DR. RICHARD WARREN
The Town of Franklin has declared a zero tolerance policy for all hate crimes in the form of any overt action motivated by bigotry and bias, including a threatened, attempted or completed overt act motivated by racial, religious, ethnic, handicap, gender, or sexual orientation prejudice, or which otherwise deprives or seeks to interfere with or disrupt the exercise or a person's constitutional rights by threat, intimidation or coercion.
The Town of Franklin's public officials and officers are charged to pursue such policy by fully applying the powers of enforcement established under the Massachusetts General Laws at Chapter 22C, Chapter 265 p37, p39 and Chapter 266 p127A and Chapter 272.
Amendment to Anti-Discrimination Law
Effective March 10, 1994 the state law prohibiting discrimination against students in public schools includes protection against discrimination based on sexual orientation. As the result of enactment of Chapter 282 of the Acts of 1993, General Laws Chapter 76, section 5 now includes the following provision:
No person shall be excluded from or discriminated against in admission to a public school of any town, or in obtaining advantages, privileges and courses of study of such public school on account of race, color, sex, religion, national origin or sexual orientation.
DISCRIMINATION/HARASSMENT (CHAPTER 76 S.5)
The Franklin Public School Department is committed to equal educational opportunity for all students and members of the school community without regard to age, color, disability, national origin, race, religion, sex or sexual orientation, in all aspects of employment and education. The members of the school community include the School Committee, administration, staff, students and volunteers working in the schools while they work and study subject to school authorities.
The Franklin Public School Department is also committed to maintaining a school environment free of harassment based on age, color, disability, national origin, race, religion, sex or sexual orientation. The Franklin School Department expects all members of the school community to conduct themselves in an appropriate and professional manner with concern for the students.
Harassment on the basis of age, color, disability, national origin, race, religion, sex or sexual orientation in any form will not be tolerated. Such harassment includes unsolicited remarks, gestures, or physical contact, display or circulation of written materials or pictures derogatory to either gender or to racial, ethnic, religions, age, sexual orientation or disabled individuals or groups. Harassment of any type will not be tolerated. Any student found guilty of harassment which includes, but is not limited to, threatening a student, making comments about a student's religion, ethnic background or race will be subject to school discipline which may include suspension from school for up to three days.
Any violation shall be brought to the attention of the Principal as soon as possible. The Principal will conduct an investigation and take action consistent with the disciplinary policy and procedures outlined in this handbook. This may include the notification of law enforcement agencies.
All students attending the Franklin Public Schools should be aware that the possession, sale and/or use of illicit drugs, including alcohol, are wrong and harmful and will not be tolerated in the schools, on school grounds, or at school functions which are either on or off school property.
Offending students will be given due process, however, once sufficient evidence has been produced to prove the offense was committed, the following steps will be taken:
- Notification of parents and Superintendent of Schools
- Suspension from school for up to ten days
- Police/Juvenile office notified
- Conferences with the principal, school counselor/psychologist, and nurse to determine the need and/or course of action for counseling and/or a rehabilitation program.
- Fulfillment of the recommendations of the committee identified in #4.
Additional offenses will automatically cause the following actions to be taken:
- Referral to the District Court for a “Child in Need of Services” petition.
- Referral to the Superintendent of Schools for an expulsion hearing.
While we realize that some absences are unavoidable, we strongly urge parents to maintain regular attendance for their children throughout the school year.
In the event that your child has been absent, we will provide make-up assignments and work when they return. However, if you notify the office in the morning, work may be picked up at the end of the day.
ABSENCES DUE TO EXTENDED VACATIONS
Absence from school for vacation purposes is discouraged. Every attempt should be made to schedule student vacations in accordance with the published school calendar. To do otherwise gives the impression that daily attendance at school is not of the highest priority.
A plan of liability insurance is offered yearly at a nominal fee. A parent may insure a child against any accident while at school, going to or from school or while engaged in a school activity away from school. In case of a claim, the school office will supply all necessary forms.
Franklin school nurses are integral members of the educational team who assist children and youth to develop to their full potential. A comprehensive school health program includes the delivery of health services and health education, which directly contributes to the student's education, as well as the health of the family and community.
A school nurse is available for parents and children at the school on a daily basis. Students who are ill or injured are urged to tell their teacher, education support person (ESP) on duty, or the nearest teacher immediately. Do not allow a minor problem to become a major one by not bringing it to the attention of a teacher or ESP. In the event of serious injury or illness at school, the school nurse will provide immediate first aid. If follow-up care is needed, or if the child cannot remain at school, parents will be notified.
To help provide prompt care for you child, the schools REQUIRE that you complete an emergency card containing the name of your family physician and other persons to contact if you are not available. The accuracy of this information is vital. Emergency cards MUST be updated on a yearly basis. If information changes during the school year, please update the emergency card immediately.
When your child returns to school from an absence, a note signed by a parent or guardian acknowledging the absence is necessary. This letter is required for all absences regardless of the duration. Absences of five (5) days or longer additionally require a note from a physician prior to the school readmitting your child to class.
Immunizations: The School Immunization Law, Chapter 76, Section 15 of the General Laws states: “No child shall be admitted to school except as hereinafter provided.” The provisions are:
A physician's certificate listing immunizations given and/or the diseases the child has had.
A physician's certificate stating immunization is contraindicated for health reasons.
A parent or guardian's statement that immunization conflicts with religious beliefs.
The law requires immunization against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, measles, mumps, and rubella (German measles). Principals are responsible for refusing school admittance to children who have not had the required immunizations or who are not otherwise exempted as explained above. Non-immunized or partially immunized children whose private physicians certify they are in the process of receiving the required immunizations shall be regarded as in compliance with the law. However, all immunizations must be complete for admission to kindergarten.
In addition, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health requires Hepatitis B immunization for all students in preschool programs as a condition of school attendance. A second dose of measles vaccine will be required for entry into the 7th grade until 2002. Effective September 1996 a second dose of measles vaccine will be required for entrance into kindergarten. Hepatitis B vaccine and proof of lead screening are also required for kindergarten entry for all children born on or after January 1, 1992. A tetanus/diphtheria booster is required in grades 10 -12.
Physical Examination: The state law requires that all students present evidence of a physician's physical examination on entry into school (preschool and kindergarten) and every 3-4 years. Franklin Public Schools require subsequent physical examinations in grades 5,7, and 10. Athletic physical examinations are required for athletic participation in accordance with MIAA regulations.
Communicable Diseases: A student showing signs of ill health, or of being infected with a disease, shall be sent home as soon as safe and proper transportation can be arranged. He/she shall remain at home until the communicable condition has been resolved to the satisfaction of the school nurse.
Parent help and cooperation are essential to prevent the spread of communicable diseases, such as conjunctivitis (pink eye), strep infections, and viruses. Students under treatment for conjunctivitis and strep throat must stay out of school for the first 24 hours of antibiotic treatment. A child who has been ill with a fever or symptoms of vomiting or diarrhea should not return to school until he/she has been symptom-free for 24 hours.
Pediculosis: The Franklin Public Schools have a “nit free” policy which means that a student treated for head lice will not be readmitted to school until there are no nits observed by the school nurse.
Screenings: All children are screened for vision and hearing annually in grades K-5, grades 7,9 and 11. Parents of those children failing to pass either of these screenings will be notified. It then becomes the parent's responsibility to seek additional professional follow-up.
Postural Screening: Postural screening will be conducted in the Franklin School System on all students in grades five through nine, as mandated by law. Every student will be screened and will not be exempt unless a note from a private physician is provided stating that the postural screening has been completed during the academic year starting in June.
Initial screening will be conducted in physical education classes in late February into March by the nurse or the physical education staff who have been trained to conduct these screenings. All students with questionable findings will be referred to the school nurse. Re-screenings will be completed by the nurse, after which recommendations will be made.
Since this is a health concern which is likely to develop during the adolescent years of rapid growth, it is important to be assessed annually. Although this screening is usually done during a physician's annual exam, it must be specifically noted by the physician, such as “postural screening negative” or “scoliosis negative”.
The policy of the Franklin Public Schools is that no medication will be dispensed in school without a written physician's orders and written parental consent. This includes over the counter medications and medicinal substitutes such as nutritional supplements. All medications will be dispensed by a registered nurse (including on field trips).
Students in grades 5 through 12 may self-administer a prescribed inhaler, provided a physician's order and written parental permission have been submitted to the nurse. This permission will be revoked by the school nurse if inappropriate use of the inhaler has been brought to the attention of the nurse.
When a student is required to take any medication during school hours, the following are necessary:
1. Written permission for the school nurse to dispense the medication must be signed by the parent and physician before any medication will be dispensed. These orders must be renewed at the beginning of each academic year. (Medication forms may be obtained from the school nurse).
2. The medication, which shall be limited to a 30-day supply, must be brought to the school nurse in a properly labeled, original prescription bottle. Over the counter medication must be supplied in the original manufacturer's labeled bottle. No medication will be administered from plastic bags, envelopes, or any other container.
3. A parent, guardian, or designated responsible adult shall deliver all medications to be administered in school, to the school nurse. In extenuating circumstances, as determined the school nurse, the medication may be delivered by other persons provided, however, that the nurse is notified in advance by the parent or guardian of the arrangement and of the quantity of medication to be delivered to the school.
4. The medicine will be kept in a locked cabinet or when required in a locked box in a refrigerator in the nurse's office and dispensed only by the registered nurse.
5. Most prescription medication is available in a 2 or 3 times a day dosage form. Parents should inquire about the availability of these medications from their physicians. This will eliminate the need to take medication during school hours.
6. Medication may be retrieved by the parent at any time and the medication will be destroyed if it is not picked up with one week following termination of the order or one week beyond the close of school.