Valley Jr./Sr. High School 703 Stevenson Boulevard

New Kensington, PA 15068

Student Handbook 2015-16

This Student Handbook Belongs to:

Name__________________________________

Grade_________ Homeroom__________

Table  of  Contents  

VALLEY  HIGH  SCHOOL  BELL  SCHEDULES....................................................................................................4  2013-­14  SCHOOL  DISTRICT  CALENDAR.........................................................................................................5  ADMINISTRATION  AND  OFFICE  STAFF ...........................................................................................................7  FACULTY ...................................................................................................................................................................8  SECTION  I.          ACADEMIC  PROGRAMS ...............................................................................................................9  GRADUATION  REQUIREMENTS ..................................................................................................................................................9  REQUIREMENTS  FOR  PROMOTION ............................................................................................................................................9  SENIOR  GRADUATION  PROJECT.................................................................................................................................................9  GRADING ........................................................................................................................................................................................9  DROP  PERIOD  &  PASS/FAIL ......................................................................................................................................................9  NCAA  ELIGIBILITY  STANDARDS ...............................................................................................................................................9  BLACK  &  GOLD  AWARDS ......................................................................................................................................................... 10  NATIONAL  HONOR  SOCIETY.................................................................................................................................................... 10  

SECTION  II.          STUDENT  SERVICES................................................................................................................. 11  GUIDANCE................................................................................................................................................................................... 11  TRANSCRIPTS  OF  HIGH  SCHOOL  RECORDS........................................................................................................................... 11  NURSE’S  OFFICE ........................................................................................................................................................................ 11  WORKING  PERMITS .................................................................................................................................................................. 11  LOST  AND  FOUND...................................................................................................................................................................... 11  LIBRARY ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 11  ATHLETICS.................................................................................................................................................................................. 12  Game  Conduct.......................................................................................................................................................................... 12  P.I.A.A.  Eligibility  Requirements ...................................................................................................................................... 12  NKASD  Eligibility  Requirements ..................................................................................................................................... 12  

SECTION  III.          SCHOOL  AND  DISTRICT  POLICIES..................................................................................... 13  CHEMICAL  ABUSE...................................................................................................................................................................... 13  ATTENDANCE............................................................................................................................................................................. 13  EXCUSED  ABSENCES .................................................................................................... ERROR!  BOOKMARK  NOT  DEFINED.  UNEXCUSED  ABSENCES ............................................................................................................................................................ 14  COMPULSORY  ATTENDANCE  &  TRUANCY ............................................................................................................................ 14  FAILURE  DUE  TO  ATTENDANCE ............................................................................................................................................. 14  Make  up  Work  in  the  Cases  of  Excused  and  Unexcused  Absences..................................................................... 14  Early  Releases  and  Permission  to  Leave  the  Building............................................................................................ 14  

TARDINESS  TO  SCHOOL............................................................................................................................................................ 15  

STUDENT  DRIVERS.................................................................................................................................................................... 15  SECTION  IV.  STUDENT  CODE  OF  CONDUCT ................................................................................................ 15  PHILOSOPHY............................................................................................................................................................................... 15  DISCIPLINE ............................................................................................................................................................................. 16  Rationale.................................................................................................................................................................................... 16  

DEFINITIONS .............................................................................................................................................................................. 16  Restrictions  during  Suspension/Expulsion  from  School ....................................................................................... 17  

DISCIPLINE  RESPONSE  STRUCTURE........................................................................................................................... 18  STEROIDS  AND  OTHER  DRUGS................................................................................................................................................ 20  CLOSED  CAMPUS  –  LEAVING  SCHOOL  PROPERTY ............................................................................................................... 20  DANCES..................................................................................................................................................................................... 20  ELECTRONIC  DEVICES .............................................................................................................................................................. 21  EMERGENCY  CLOSING  AND  DELAY  OF  SCHOOL ................................................................................................................... 21  EMERGENCY  EVACUATIONS .................................................................................................................................................... 21  EXEMPTION  FROM  SPECIFIC  INSTRUCTIONAL  ACTIVITIES................................................................................................ 21  LOCKER  SEARCHES-­‐  SCHOOL/GYM ....................................................................................................................................... 22  LOSS  OR  DAMAGE  OF  SCHOOL  PROPERTY............................................................................................................................. 22  LOSS  OF  PRIVILEGES ................................................................................................................................................................. 22  PHOTOGRAPHS  AND  VIDEOTAPES  OF  STUDENTS ................................................................................................................ 22  STUDENT  DRESS........................................................................................................................................................................ 22  STUDENT  IDENTIFICATION  CARDS  AND  NUMBERS............................................................................................................. 23  STUDENT  SPECTATORS ............................................................................................................................................................ 24  VISITORS ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 24  ARSON ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 24  CHEATING/FALSIFYING  INFORMATION ................................................................................................................................ 24  CORPORAL  PUNISHMENT................................................................................................................................................ 25  DUE  PROCESS  PROCEDURE............................................................................................................................................. 25  Status  of  Student  Pending  Suspension  or  Expulsion............................................................................................... 27  

HARASSMENT  OR  EXTORTION ...................................................................................................................................... 27  BULLYING ................................................................................................................................................................................ 27  HAZING ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 27  SALE,  USE,  POSSESSION  OR  PROCUREMENT  OF  INTOXICATING  BEVERAGES,  REST.  DRUGS,  ETC. 28  Definition  of  Terms: .............................................................................................................................................................. 28  

MEDIA  POLICY....................................................................................................................................................................... 29  POLICE  QUESTIONING  AND  APPREHENSION ......................................................................................................... 29  RETENTION  OF  DISCIPLINARY  INFORMATION ..................................................................................................... 29  SEARCHES  OF  PERSON  AND  LOCKERS ....................................................................................................................... 30  STUDENT  PARKING  PERMIT  POLICY...................................................................................................................................... 30  POSSESSION/USE  OF  TOBACCO  OR  SMOKING  PRODUCTS................................................................................ 31  WEAPONS ................................................................................................................................................................................ 31  Definitions: ................................................................................................................................................................................ 31  Investigation  Procedures:................................................................................................................................................... 32  

CAFETERIA.................................................................................................................................................................................. 32  STUDENT  –  PARENT  ATHLETIC  PARTICIPATION  INFORMATION................................................................. 33  Philosophy ................................................................................................................................................................................. 33  Sportsmanship......................................................................................................................................................................... 33  Student  Eligibility  Requirements .................................................................................................................................... 34  Assumption  of  Risk ................................................................................................................................................................ 34  Hazing......................................................................................................................................................................................... 34  Communication  with  Coaches .......................................................................................................................................... 34  Participation  Standards...................................................................................................................................................... 34  Illegal  Substances/Alcohol/Tobacco/Steroids/Controlled  Substances ......................................................... 35  

VALUABLES................................................................................................................................................................................. 35  BOOK  RESPONSIBILITIES ......................................................................................................................................................... 35  FINANCIAL  OBLIGATIONS ........................................................................................................................................................ 35  

USE  OF  SCHOOL  TELEPHONES ................................................................................................................................................ 35  ASSEMBLY/AUDITORIUM  BEHAVIOR  AND  PROCEDURES .................................................................................................. 35  CAFETERIA..................................................................................................................... ERROR!  BOOKMARK  NOT  DEFINED.  

SECTION  V.          PROCEDURES  AND  PROGRAMS ........................................................................................... 36  HALL  PASSES.............................................................................................................................................................................. 36  STUDY  HALLS......................................................................................................................................................................... 36  VOCATIONAL/TECHNICAL  STUDENTS ...................................................................................................................... 36  CO-­‐CURRICULAR  ACTIVITIES  PARTICIPATION...................................................................................................... 36  CLUBS  AND  ACTIVITY  PERIOD....................................................................................................................................... 37  FIELD  TRIPS............................................................................................................................................................................ 37  VISITORS  TO  VALLEY  HIGH  SCHOOL........................................................................................................................... 37  EDUCATIONAL  TRAVEL .................................................................................................................................................... 37  SCHEDULING.......................................................................................................................................................................... 38  INDEPENDENT  STUDY....................................................................................................................................................... 38  HOME/SCHOOL  COMMUNICATION ............................................................................................................................. 38  FIRE  DRILLS............................................................................................................................................................................ 39  TECHNOLOGY  PRECAUTIONS ........................................................................................................................................ 39  TALENT  SEARCH  PROGRAM ........................................................................................................................................... 39  STUDENT  ASSISTANT  PROGRAM  (SAP)  TEAM ....................................................................................................... 40  STUDENT  LUNCH  ACCOUNTS......................................................................................................................................... 40  

SPECIAL  EDUCATION ......................................................................................................................................... 40  MISSION ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 40  SCREENING  PROCEDURE.......................................................................................................................................................... 40  MULTIDISCIPLINARY  TEAM..................................................................................................................................................... 41  SERVICES  FOR  STUDENTS  IN  NONPUBLIC  SCHOOLS ........................................................................................................... 41  EXCEPTIONAL  STUDENTS ........................................................................................................................................................ 41  

EDUCATION  PROGRAM. .................................................................................................................................... 41  CONFIDENTIALITY  OF  STUDENT  RECORDS........................................................................................................................... 41  NON-­‐DISCRIMINATION  STATEMENT ..................................................................................................................................... 41  

NEW KENSINGTON-ARNOLD SCHOOL DISTRICT SCHOOL CALENDAR 2015-2016 REVISED

August 19, 2015 New Teacher Induction

Aug. 20, 2015 Tch. In-service (No Sch-1/2 Professional Workday)

August 21, 2015 Tch. In-Service (No School)

August 24, 2015 Opening Day of School

September 7, 2015 Labor Day (No School)

September 24, 2015 Mid-term

October 12, 2015 Tch. In-Service (No School)

October 27, 2015 End of first 9-week period

November 3, 2015 Act 80 Day Parent Conf. (No school)- Election Day

November 11, 2015 Tch. In-Service (No School)

Nov. 26 - Nov. 30, 2015 Thanksgiving Vacation

December 4, 2015 Mid-term

December 24 - January 1 Christmas Vacation (Last day 12/23/15 - Return 1/4/16)

January 14, 2016 End of second 9-week period & First Semester

January 18, 2016 Martin Luther King Day (No school)

February 15, 2016 Presidents’ Day (No School)

February 18, 2016 Mid-term

March 21, 2016 End of third 9-week period

March 24 – March 29, 2016 Easter Vacation- Return March 30, 2016

April 25, 2016 No School – Snow make up if needed April 26, 2016 Tch. In-Service (No Sch-1/2 Prof. Workday) Election Day

April 29, 2016 Mid-term

May 27, 2016 No School – Snow make up if needed

May 30, 2016 Memorial Day (No school)

June 2, 2016 Last Day of School-End of 4th 9-week period

June 2, 2016 Graduation Day

June 3, 2016 Tch. In-Service 9-week Periods:

Oct. 27 Jan. 14 March 21 June 2

Mid-term Dates: Sept. 24 Dec. 4 Feb. 18 Apr. 29

Report Card Schedule: Nov. 3 Jan. 22 April 1 June 2

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VALLEY JR./SR. HIGH SCHOOL 703 Stevenson Blvd

New Kensington, Pennsylvania, 15068 Phone: 724 337-4536 Fax: 724 337-8054

ADMINISTRATION

Mr. Jon Banko – Principal Mr. Todd Kutchak – Assistant Principal (Grades7-9)

Mr. Jeffrey Thimons – Assistant Principal Grades 10-12)

OFFICE STAFF

Mrs. Colleen Elder – Secretary Mrs. Deborah Hanna – Secretary

Mrs. Rebecca Mangone – Guidance Secretary

GUIDANCE DEPARTMENT Mrs. Michelle Smith Mrs. Tierra Weaver Mr. David Zamperini

Guidance Counselor (A-L) Guidance Counselor (Grades 7&8) Guidance Counselor (M-Z) ATHELETIC DIRECTOR : Mr. William (Muzzy) Colosimo

RESOURCE OFFICER : Officer Joe Locke, NKPD

PROBATION OFFICER : Mrs. Lori Thomas

PENN STATE COUNSELOR: Ms. Kelly Conage

SECURITY OFFICERS : Mr. William Colosimo Jr.

Mrs. Valerie Daniels

Mr. Mike Spagnolo

Ms. Lori Waltonbaugh

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FACULTY

English/Reading Department Steve Ansani Ryann Barr Sarah Cuffia Erica Felack-Bucci

Daniel Kirby Rachael Link Rosemary Milliron Beth Ryce Tracy Smith

Social Studies Department Phillip Cope Diana Gentile Doreen Hirshka Jaron Minford Jason Moore Joe Noll Kay Tudor

Science Department James Edgerton Joe Finau Patrick Hepinger Kim Johnson Danielle Lovelace Ashley Senopole Becky Slepak

Math Department Megan Enciso Julie Grum Joe Lang Greg Linde Brad Reiher Rebecca Sanner Albert Sebeck Joshua Tysk

Health & Physical Ed. Mark Kaczanowicz Melissa Klingensmith Ashley Pujol Aaron Smith

JROTC John Skovran TBD

Foreign Language Dept. Rachel Crytzer Jason Fry Stephanie Sakoian

Family & Consumer Science Patricia Annarelli Roberta Jones

Technology Education Tim Cignetti Rick Shaner Connie Vita

Librarian Tracy Ammon

Gift Instruction Kathy Sagwitz

Fine Arts Melissa Mazur Prissy Pakulski Daryn Peluso Raymond Sharkins Nicholas Smith Gregory Sturgill

Special Education Clara Ballard Janelle Cole Ben Edwards Amanda Johns Katie LaCava Lyndsay Lattus Morgan Lewis MaryAnn Procopio Marta Regus Stephanie Ruane Erin Saville Angela Soles

To send an email to an administrator, faculty, or staff member at Valley High School simply type the first letter of their first name and their last name followed by @nkasd.com

(Ex: to send an email to the principal, Jon Banko, the address is jbanko@nkasd.com)

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SECTION I. ACADEMIC PROGRAMS REVISION PENDING - Graduation Requirements The following requirements are necessary in order to receive a high school diploma:

English 4 credits (4 yrs.) Social Studies 4 credits Math 3 credits (3 yrs.) Science 3 credits Phys Ed & Health 2.5 credits (4 yrs.)

Electives 6 credits * Micro-Applications 0.5 credit Proficient PSSA Math 0.5 credit ^ Proficient PSSA Reading 0.5 Credit ^ Graduation Project

TOTAL 24 Credits * Students enrolled in Northern Westmoreland Career Center are exempt from Micro-Applications, and one (1) credit of Physical Education. Failure to successfully complete the vocational program reinstates all requirements. ^ Students that do not score proficient on the 11th grade Keystone Algebra or Literature test will be required to take a remedial course in either or both subjects. Proficiency credit can be earned on any re-test or by successfully completing the Project Based Assessment.

Requirements for Promotion Successful completion of: 5 credits = promotion to 8th grade 5 credits = promotion to 9th grade

5.5 credits = promotion to 10th grade 10.5 credits = promotion to 11th Grade 16 credits = promotion to 12th Grade

STUDENTS MUST ATTAIN 24 CREDITS BETWEEN 9TH AND 12TH GRADES TO GRADUATE (SEE ABOVE) Graduation Portfolio In May of the 2014-15 school year, all juniors were presented with the requirements for the Graduation Portfolio. Guidelines are provided for completing tasks and collecting artifacts for submission. All students are required to complete the portfolio and attend an exit interview prior to graduation.

Grading The grading scale for all classes at Valley H.S.: A = 90% - 100% B = 80% - 89% C = 70% - 79% D = 60% - 69% F = Below 60% Report cards are distributed quarterly. Parents and guardians will also receive regular updates on student progress throughout the school year via Skyward and hard copy reports.

All students are graded based on a 4.0 scale. A student will have .0334 added to their cumulative GPA for the successful completion of each of the following courses: Hon. English 9 AP English 11 AP English 12 Hon. English 10 Accel. Chemistry Honors Physics Calculus AP Chemistry AP Physics AP Calculus AB French IV Spanish IV *AP Biology AP American

History

*Suspended for the 2015-16 school year

Drop Period & Pass/Fail Students will be permitted to drop a class without receiving a grade within the first ten (10) days of the course. After the drop period, students that withdraw from a course will receive a failing grade. Students may petition for one (1) pass/fail course during their high school career. The student will be required to complete all assessments and assignments to pass the class and it will be reflected on the student’s transcript; however, the grade will not be reflected in the student’s GPA. Pass/Fail must be approved by the child’s parent/guardian and the principal or assistant principal.

NCAA Eligibility Standards NCAA Div. I require 16 core courses & NCAA Div. II requires 14 core courses from the list of approved courses. Div I has a sliding scale for test score and GPA requirements. Div. II has a minimum SAT of 820 or ACT sum score of 68. All SAT and ACT scores must be reported directly to the NCAA Eligibility Center by the testing agency. Test scores that appear on transcripts will not be used. More detailed information and assistance with NCAA eligibility is available in the guidance office.

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Black & Gold Awards

The success of Valley High School is dependent on the individual efforts of all our students, and while those efforts are numerous, productivity in three specific areas have the greatest impact. Obviously academic achievement is important, but attendance and school citizenship play roles as well. Students will be recognized as Black or Gold Stars dependent on the following formula. Academics 5 pts = Make Academic High Honor Roll 4 pts = Make Academic Honor Roll Attendance 5 pts = Perfect Attendance 4 pts = ½ to 3 days absent 3 pts = 3½ to 5 days absent Citizenship – No Office Discipline Referrals

9-10 pts earns a Gold Star (High Honors) 7-8 pts earns a Black Star (Honors) SStudents will be recognized at the conclusion of each ggrading period.

National Honor Society

The National Honor Society is a collection of distinguished students who have proven, through their visible actions, their competence in Scholarship, Leadership, Character, and Service. It is one of the highest accolades that a student can receive in his or her high school career. To be eligible for consideration to NHS, a student must be a junior or senior with a 3.3 cumulative grade point average since ninth grade. If they meet this first requirement, students are informed of their eligibility and given a data collection form. This form is where students document their leadership and service activities. In order to further qualify for consideration, students must have completed a minimum of two service projects (school, church, community related) and a minimum of one leadership activity (organization/club officer, peer teaching, etc.). Note: Any student who does not submit a data collection form by the specified due date will be considered immediately ineligible for induction into the National Honor Society. At the same time that students work on their data collection forms, the high school assistant principal compiles a report on all eligible students documenting any disciplinary infractions that they may have incurred since their ninth grade year. This report is given to the NHS sponsor. Based on the assistant principal’s report and the data collection forms, a committee of faculty and staff will determine on an individual basis, whether a student meets the requirements of Character, Service, and Leadership. Before the committee ever sees any student information, the NHS sponsor removes all names from the data collection forms and from the assistant principal’s report and assigns numbers to each student. In this fashion, the selection process is completely anonymous. Once the committee has made its selections, each student’s information is reviewed by the building principal. After this review, the students who have sufficiently proven their competence in the four pillars of the society are notified of their admittance to the group. Once this notification is made, the selection process is over and will not be reopened until the following year.

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SECTION II. STUDENT SERVICES

Guidance School counseling services are provided to help all students maximize their capabilities, interests, and personality traits while realizing their limitations. To achieve these goals, the school counseling staff provides a variety of services. The counselors are available to parents and teachers as well as students to see that students gain mature self-understanding and self-reliability along with the attitudes and skills necessary to become productive citizens.

Transcripts of High School Records If you are applying for admission to college, you should get an official application from the registrar of the college that you wish to attend. The transcript of your high school record will then be sent to the college and will not be returned to you. Each transcript must be accompanied by a “Release of Information” form, which must be signed by you and by your parent or guardian. This rule also applies to students who are 18 years of age or older. Three transcripts of high school records are furnished at no charge. Additional transcripts will be furnished at a cost of two dollars each.

Nurse’s Office The nurse’s office is available if you require first aid for an illness or injury occurring in school. NO medication, including aspirin, is available in the nurse’s office. If you must take a prescription drug or any other type of medicine during school hours, you must consult the school nurse for policy guidelines. It is important to note that ALL in-coming 11th graders are required to have physicals. Families may elect to have their family doctors perform the physical during the summer between 10th and 11th grade. If the physical is not completed during that time, then the school doctor will conduct it, free of charge, in January of the 11th grade year. At the onset of each year, students are given emergency cards to be completed and returned to the nurse. Having these completed cards on file is essential to protecting the health, safety, and welfare of students while they are at school. Working Permits The Child Labor Laws establish certain standards of age, physical fitness, and education which students must meet before they can be employed. Students ages 14-18 must have a work permit to be employed. The application can be received and submitted in the front office. Lost and Found Students who lose books or personal possessions should come to the office to see if the said possessions have been turned in. Likewise, students who find books, articles of clothing, or other items which do not belong to them should bring those items directly to the office. If a student does not find his or her lost item in the office lost and found, he or she should fill out a “lost possession” form in the office, which will be given to custodians and office staff so that they can continue to search for items. Ultimately, students are responsible for the care and safety of all their personal belongings. The school will not accept responsibility for lost or stolen articles. Library The library is available to students for research work, study areas, and leisure reading. Regular library hours are 7:50 am to 2:15 pm every school day. After-school hours have been offered in the past and will be announced when available. Students should come to the library during study halls ONLY after receiving a pass from the librarian or a subject teacher. Students should report directly to the library and secure their pass in the proper place and sign in. Students have access to a wide variety of information in the library through the use of books (circulating and reference), current and back issues of newspapers and magazines, FAX access, copy machine, microfilm/microfiche reader printers, computerized card catalog searching, computers with Internet access, and a writing lab. Furthermore, as an ACCESS PA and Share Westmoreland member, the library gives students the ability to borrow books and periodicals state and countywide. Students should adhere to the following basic rules when using the library: 1. Students must behave in a quiet and orderly manner.

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2. Students must have valid library passes to enter the library. Students in the library without a properly completed library pass will be considered cutting a class.

3. Books not returned on time or books that are lost become the financial responsibility of the student. If these financial obligations are not met, students will lose all library privileges and will have all school records withheld until the obligation is met.

Athletics Game Conduct For athletes: Participants in sporting events should always exhibit sportsman-like qualities. They should never: • Use profanity or vulgarity of any kind • Insult teammates, coaches, opponents, spectators, or officials in any way • Act in a way which could result in physical harm to anyone Failure to comply with these behavioral guidelines could result in dismissal from the team and in further disciplinary action. For spectators: The following regulations for spectator behavior will be strictly adhered to at all sporting events: • Vulgar, unsportsmanlike, or rude language, even in the form of cheers will not be tolerated. Law enforcement officers and

school administrators have the authority to remove and/or arrest any spectator whose conduct is detrimental or disruptive of the activity taking place.

• All school regulations apply to home and away games. Any student violating any regulations at home or away events may be removed from the event and/or may not be permitted to attend future after-school events. If a student-athlete is arrested within the communities of the New Kensington-Arnold School District, even if not on school property or at a school event, they can lose their ability to participate in athletic activities. P.I.A.A. Eligibility Requirements A student is eligible to compete in interscholastic athletics if: 1. There is on file with the Athletic Director’s office a certificate of consent signed by the athlete’s parent or legal guardian. 2. The student-athlete has been examined by a school physician, and his or her condition is declared satisfactory before training

or participating in any sport. 3. The student-athlete has not reached the age of 19 before July 1. 4. The student-athlete is an amateur. 5. The student-athlete is regularly enrolled in the New Kensington-Arnold School District and in regular attendance. 6. The student-athlete has not been absent from school for twenty school days during the semester. If a student exceeds twenty

days of absence in a given semester, he or she must be in attendance 45 days following the absence before he or she can participate in any sport.

7. The student-athlete has never accepted money, prizes, competed under a false name, or played on a team whose players are receiving, or have received, compensation for their athletic service.

8. The student-athlete’s parents or guardians reside in the New Kensington-Arnold School District, or have legal residence in this district.

9. The student-athlete has not been enrolled in high school for more than eight semesters beyond the eighth grade. 10. The student-athlete has not played four seasons beyond the eighth grade in any form of athletics. NKASD Eligibility Requirements 1. Students must maintain a minimum 2.0 grade point average in order to participate in any co curricular activities. 2. Students must pass 4 full credit courses in order to participate in any co curricular activities. 3. Students failing two or more classes on the weekly grading report and or are not passing the required four full credit courses

are ineligible to participate in any co curricular activities the week following said report starting Sunday at midnight thru Saturday at 11:59 PM.

4. Students failing one class but passing the required four full credit courses on the weekly grading report are eligible to participate.

5. A student receiving one or more failing grades on their report card will be ineligible to participate in any co curricular activities for fifteen school days.

6. Students must be on time and in school all day in order to participate in any co curricular activities after school. (Sports, plays etc.)

7. Students who are tardy must provide a legal excuse to the Administrator overseeing the student’s co curricular activity and the Administrator prior to the student’s participation that day must approve it.

8. Students absent from school may not participate in any co curricular activities for that day.

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9. Students with early dismissals from school must provide a legal excuse (doctor, lawyer, court, funeral etc.) to the Administrator overseeing the co curricular activity and student must get approval from that Administrator prior to participation that day.

10. Students who are absent from school 7 or more days in a nine-week period are ineligible to participate in any co curricular activities for 15 school days, Students who are absent from school 14 or more days in a semester are ineligible to participate in any co curricular activities for 20 school days.

13. If a student-athlete is ruled ineligible due to grades or attendance on the day of a game and does participate in the game that day, the team will forfeit the game and the WPIAL will be notified.

14. Any student-athlete suspended from school, may not participate in either practice or a game. For further regulations, parents and students are urged to consult the constitution and by-laws of the WPIAL & PIAA.

SECTION III. SCHOOL AND DISTRICT POLICIES Chemical Abuse The New Kensington-Arnold School District recognizes the misuse of chemicals in our communities. It is the School District’s intent that the chemical abuse policy clearly establishes that the use, possession, or sale of chemicals will not be tolerated in the schools. The policy states that students shall not use, distribute, or have in their possession any chemicals or related paraphernalia in the school, on school property, or at school related activities. The guidelines incorporated in this policy have been formulated for the effective enforcement of this policy in a fair and consistent manner. Due consideration has been given to the legal rights and responsibilities of the school administration, staff, students, and parents. The chemical abuse policy and administrative guidelines is intended to serve as an amendment to the citizenship code of the New Kensington-Arnold School District, revised in September of 1986. Any inconsistencies or ambiguities between this policy and the citizenship code shall be resolved in favor of the chemical abuse policy and administrative guidelines. The New Kensington-Arnold School Board reserves the right to use any measures deemed necessary to control chemical abuse including requiring a student to be tested for drug use before returning to school. The Board reserves the right to use any measures even if the same is not provided for specifically in any rule or regulation of the policy and administrative guidelines. A copy of the complete New Kensington-Arnold School District Chemical Abuse Policy is available in the high school office. Attendance Absence from School There are two types of absences from Valley High School: excused and unexcused. A student may miss 5 days each nine-week grading period for reasons of illness or family emergency. These absences will be considered excused ONLY IF the student brings a signed document, within three days of his or her return to school, from the parent or legal guardian, noting the date of and reason for the absence. All subsequent absences in a nine-week grading period require a doctor’s written and signed consent for absence. This doctor’s note must be presented to the student’s first period teacher within three days of the student’s return to school in order for the absence to be considered excused. Finally, if a student misses more than three days in a row – for any reason, regardless of which grading period or how many other absences the student has – he or she is required to bring a doctor’s written and signed consent for absence. This verification must be presented to the student’s 1st period teacher within three days of the student’s return to school in order for the absence to be considered excused.

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Unexcused Absences Unexcused absences occur when: • students fail to bring written verification from their parent or legal guardian within three days of their return to school for

one of their 5 parental excused absences in a nine-week grading period. • students fail to bring a doctor’s written consent for absence within three days of their return to school after their 6th day of

absence within a nine-week grading period or after their 4th day of consecutive absence at ANY point in the year. Students may also accrue unexcused absences in particular classes when: • they miss ten or more minutes of a class without the written permission of the teacher of that class. • they are present in school, but do not attend a given class without written permission from the teacher or an administrator to

miss that class. • they miss the class due to an unexcused tardy. Compulsory Attendance & Truancy Students under the compulsory attendance age according to the Pennsylvania School Code who accrue more than three unexcused absences will be sent a report of first offense. This first notice is addressed to the parents or legal guardians of the student, informing them that they are in default of the law by not assuring that their child attends school. Additional unexcused absences will be considered a second offense. At that point, the district magistrate will be notified, and the parents or legal guardians of the child may be fined or arrested for violation of the school code. Failure Due to Attendance All students at Valley High School – whether they are under the compulsory attendance age or not – who accrue 5 or more unexcused absences from any class in a nine-week grading period will receive a grade of “F/A,” failure due to attendance. This means that a student’s actual grade in the class is disregarded since the student has accumulated 5 or more unexcused absences in that nine-week grading period. Some facts to note about the “F/A” policy: • If, in the subsequent nine-week grading period, a student misses less than five unexcused periods in the class where he or

she earned the “F/A,” then the student will receive the grade he or she rightfully earned in the previous nine-week grading period, provided that student earns a 70% or better in that subsequent nine weeks.

• In cases where students do not earn back their actual grade due to continued unexcused absences, the grade will turn to an “F.”

• A student missing five or more unexcused periods of a subject area in a nine week period will receive a 55% grade. • A grade of “F” in any nine-week grading period supersedes a grade of “F/A.” • If an F/A (55%) grade is earned in the final nine weeks of a course, the F/A (55%) will remain and not subject to change. A copy of the entire Secondary Attendance Policy is available in the high school office. Make up Work in the Cases of Excused and Unexcused Absences In ALL cases of excused absences, students are permitted to make up the work that they missed in all classes. The student and teacher will come to an agreement about the nature of the work, with the understanding that students will receive one day of make-up time for every day of absence. It is the student’s responsibility to seek the work from the teacher; if the student does not fulfill that responsibility, then no credit will be given for the missed work. Early Releases and Permission to Leave the Building If a student has a scheduled appointment with a health care or legal professional during the school day, the student must present a written request from the parent or legal guardian to the attendance office by 10:00 am or it will not be honored. All early releases are subject to verification by the high school office. The request must include the date and the time for leaving school, the reason for the early release, a signature of the parent or guardian, and a phone number to contact a parent or guardian. Release time will be limited to two hours. If more time is needed, the student will be marked for the day. Upon returning to school after such an absence or after any early release, a student must report directly to the attendance office with proper verification of his or her whereabouts. If the verification is acceptable, the absence will be considered excused. If the verification is either not presented or not acceptable, the absence will be considered unexcused.

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Tardiness to School Students who arrive to school after the start of the instructional day (7:40 am) are considered Tardy to School. Those students will be required to sign in at the front desk and report to their first period class.

Once a student is in the building

o Arrive to First period class between 7:40 – 7:50: The teacher will admit the student to class and mark them Tardy to Class.

If a student arrives after the start of school but does not report to the attendance office or does not report directly to class, the day will be considered an unexcused absence and the student may face disciplinary actions. Any time a student arrives to school after the start of school, a written note must be provided in order for the tardy to be excused. A parent or guardian may write up to five excuses per 9 weeks. All tardies above and beyond that number will be considered unexcused, and students will be unable to make up missed work. Anytime a student arrives to school without an appropriate written excuse, the absences in those classes will be considered unexcused and will count towards their F/A total. Tardiness to school is tracked through the main office with the cooperation of the first period teacher. Students who accumulate excessive tardies will be subject to disciplinary action. Class Attendance It is every student’s responsibility to attend all classes that they are assigned. If they are not in class and do not have the express written permission of the teacher whose class they are missing, then the absence will be considered a class cut and will be considered an unexcused absence. Being in the library or in another teacher’s classroom are not acceptable reasons to miss a class that is assigned. Students who cut class will not be eligible to turn in assignments due that class period and will face disciplinary action. Student Drivers School busses are provided for all students in the New Kensington-Arnold School District, including those attending the high school. Students will have the privilege to driving to school under certain conditions. All vehicles must be registered with the high school office and are subject to search. Any student who leaves the school building without permission during regular school hours will face disciplinary consequences that can include loss of parking privileges.

SECTION IV. STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

Philosophy It is believed that all students should have the freedom and encouragement to express their individuality in the school. Expressions of freedom should not include conduct that intrudes upon and/or endangers the rights and freedoms of others, especially the freedom of peers to receive instruction. It is therefore, the intent of the New Ken-Arnold School District to establish a rational position that recognizes both the freedom of each individual and the need for sufficient order to permit the efficient operation of the instructional program. The Board also recognizes that implementation of this policy calls for sensitive, tolerant, intelligent action on the part of the entire school staff so that fostering individuality is compatible with educationally sound group efforts. In all instances wherein employees act to help students conduct themselves properly, emphasis will be placed upon student growth and ability to achieve successful self-discipline. New Ken-Arnold students must recognize that all events carry consequences; their actions, language, dress and manners are all part of their conduct. Student responsibilities include regular school attendance, conscientious effort in classroom work and conformance to school rules and regulations. Most of all, students share with the administration and faculty, a responsibility to develop and maintain a climate within he school that is conducive to wholesome learning and living. A safe and orderly school environment will be maintained; students should be

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willing to volunteer information in matters relating to the health, safety, and welfare of the school community and the protection of the school property. No student has the right to interfere with the education of others it is the responsibility of all students to respect the rights of other students, teacher’s administrators, and any others involved in the educational process. Students, both individually and in groups, shall comply with school regulations and shall recognize the authority of school personnel Disobedience or open defiance of school personnel authority shall constitute sufficient cause for disciplinary action. Individual or group student acts that challenge the authority of school personnel to conduct meaningful instruction in and teaching/learning situation shall be reported to the building administration. Building principals are empowered to institute appropriate, corrective and/or disciplinary action. Actions of an individual or group of students posing an immediate threat to the health and welfare of others, upon discretion of school personnel, will permit and reasonable action necessary to protect those whose health and welfare is being threatened. One of the New Ken-Arnold School District goals is to help students develop self-discipline, which is a condition of orderly conduct, through inner control. The New Ken-Arnold School District will assist each student in learning the control. Disciplinary measures will be employed as instructional and guiding, not merely as punitive actions. As appropriate, conferences will be held with the student; parent/guardian(s), and school personnel and/or disciplinary conferences, alternative discipline may be administered in accordance with this policy. The New Ken-Arnold Board of School Directors retains the right to make and enforce reasonable and necessary rules governing the conduct of students in school. “School” includes the buildings of, the grounds of, school-sponsoring activities on or off school property, bus stops, and students walking to and from school, and conveyance providing transportation to or from “school” and circumstances in which the school is acting “in loco parentis,” granted by Section 1317 of he Pennsylvania School Code, defines this as granting to teachers and administrators in public schools, the same authority as to conduct and behavior over pupils which in attendance at “school” that parents have over their charges. DISCIPLINE Rationale An effective school discipline system presents categories of student misbehaviors and infractions as well as the prescribed disciplinary responses/consequences associated with each. Several purposes are served through this approach. First, it identifies types of student behaviors that are unacceptable and the resulting consequences of such acts, Secondly, the pairing of misbehaviors and disciplinary responses serves as a point of reference for policy making. Through the careful development of these categories of misconduct and their paring with a range of sound disciplinary responses and options, the school attempts to ensure that its disciplinary practices and procedures will be consistent, reasonable, fair, and equitable. It is the responsibility of students to know and follow the Code of Conduct accordingly. Students are expected to assist in maintaining a safe and orderly learning environment by providing information in matters relation to the health, safety and welfare of the school community and the protection of school property. Students are to assume that all rules are in effect until they are waived, altered or rescinded. The specific conduct described herein is not an exhaustive list, but is exemplary of the kind of conduct that is subject to disciplinary action under the code. Students may be disciplined for other actions that would disrupt the educational process or adversely affect the health, safety and welfare of fellow students, teachers, administrators or other school personnel. Definitions : Teacher/Office Detention: Detention requires that the student remain when school is not in session. Detentions are held before or after school.

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Students will be given at least one day’s notice prior to serving the detention. When assigned detention, a written notice will be provided; this serves as notification to the parent. All detentions must be served. Failure to serve detention will result in further disciplinary action. It is the responsibility of the student to arrange transportation to and/or from detention, as necessary. When family emergencies occur, students may reschedule detention. Decisions to reschedule will be made by an administrator, upon receipt of a note from the parent/guardian. Exclusion from school: The power to exclude a student from school for cause shall be vested in the New Kensington-Arnold Board of School Directors, the Superintendent, Principal or designee as set forth hereafter. Exclusion from school may be affected by in school suspension, out of school/full suspension, or expulsion. These terms are defined as follows: In-School Suspension: In accordance with the policies of the Board of School Directors, In-School suspensions exclude students from the regular school programs. You will be assigned to the In-School Suspension Room. In-School suspensions may be for a period of up to five (5) days. Students suspended to the In-School suspension room shall be considered in attendance at school. During this time, students will be assigned work to complete that addresses corrective measures for the misbehaviors that resulted in the suspension. Class work will be obtained from the students’ teachers and will be done independently with the assistance of the instructional personnel supervising the In-School room. Out of School/Full Suspension: A student may be subject to suspension for an act which, in the opinion of the principal or superintendent, violates Board policy, rules, regulations or which interferes with the ordinary educational processes. An initial suspension of up to three (3) days may be extended up to a total of ten (10) days for the same offense, in accordance with the policies of the Board of School Directors after an informal hearing with the Superintendent or designee. The ten (10) school day limitation shall not be exceeded. Suspension may not be accumulated or made to run consecutively beyond this ten (10) school day limitation. Expulsion: Permanent expulsion from school rolls, in accordance with the policies of the New Ken-Arnold Board of School Directors and State Regulations. A student may be subject to expulsion by the New Ken-Arnold Board of School Directors for an act, which in its opinion violates Board policy, rules, regulations or interferes with the ordinary processes of the School District. A suspension may be followed by an expulsion for the same offense, in which case the expulsion need not immediately follow the suspension, provided that the student has been returned to the normal class. Loss of Privileges: Students who lose privileges are denied attendance at all extra-curricular activities (i.e. dances, athletic contests/practices, field trips, clubs, driving to and from school, prom, etc.) during the time of suspension either ISS or OSS and/or for the time period specified as a disciplinary consequence. Restrictions during Suspension/Expulsion from School Students under suspension from school are also not permitted, on the dates of the suspension, to participate, in any capacity, in all extra-curricular activities including sports, and/or any activity representing the New Ken-Arnold School District. If the extra-curricular activity is part of the academic evaluation, an alternative assignment must be given.

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When a student accumulates suspensions at each of the following increments, the corresponding consequences occur.

SUSPENSION COUNT CONSEQUENCE 2ND Suspension Loss of privileges for one week 3rd Suspension Loss of privileges for one month 4th Suspension Loss of privileges for one year

Hearing with superintendent or designee DISCIPLINE RESPONSE STRUCTURE Level I: Minor or initial misbehavior that impedes orderly classroom procedures or interferes with the orderly operation of the school or school-sponsored activities. Level I infractions will be handled by individual teachers or administrators. Level I misbehaviors may be indicative of a problem, and as such may be referred to appropriate support staff. Unmodified Level I misbehaviors will be referred to the administration as a Level II offense. Examples: Classroom tardiness Cheating, Plagiarism and/or lying Abusive language; agitation others Disturbances in the classroom, hall, study hall, auditorium, cafeteria, locker room

Failure to complete assignments or carry out directions Failure to follow school or class rules Eating/drinking in unauthorized areas Inappropriate written or verbal comments Public displays of affection

Response Options: Verbal reprimand Parental Contact Conference Guidance Referral

Isolation within the classroom Special assignment (i.e. letter of apology or explanation) Loss of privileges

Detention (Teacher) Referral to appropriate support agencies Saturday Detention Level II: Misbehavior whose frequency or seriousness tends to disrupt the learning climate of the school or school-sponsored activities. These infractions, which usually result from the continuation of Level I misbehaviors, require the intervention of personnel on the administrative level because implementation of Level I disciplinary options failed to correct the situation. Also included in this level are misbehaviors which do not represent a direct threat to the health and safety of others, but whose educational consequences are serious enough to require corrective action on the part of the administrative personnel. Examples: Continuation of Level I misbehaviors Failure to attend teacher assigned consequence (i.e. detention, Repeated tardiness to school written apology, etc.) Dress code violations Falsifying information Harassment (Verbal, Physical, or Sexual) First class cut Possession of any incendiary devices (i.e. Lack of respect for incendiary devices) Misuse of school property

Violation of student parking policy/guidelines Bus misconduct Gambling Violation of the Internet/User Agreement Possession of obscene material Entering another student’s locker (Unauthorized) Defiance or Insubordination Failure to obtain an admit slip In an unauthorized area of the school Bullying (Physical, Verbal, Mental, Cyber)

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Response Options: Verbal Reprimand or warning Office Detention Loss of privileges Saturday Detention In-school suspension Parent Observation Parental Conference Referral to appropriate support agencies Out of school Suspension Level III: Acts directed against others or property, but whose consequences do not seriously endanger the health or safety of others in the school. These acts might be considered criminal but the most frequently can be handled through disciplinary procedures in the school. Corrective measures taken by the school are dependent upon the extent of the school’s resources for remediation that is in the best interest of all students and school personnel. **Denotes Police notification. Police to be notified and the necessary criminal charges filed. Usually summary charges at this level. No exceptions. Examples: Continuation of Level I or II misbehaviors Assault/Battery (i.e. fighting) ** Vandalism (minor) Use/furnishing/selling/possession of tobacco products or tobacco look-alikes ** Petty theft Threats to others Leading or participating in a walkout

Possession/use of electronic or telephone paging devices and cellular phones Multiple and/or repeated class cuts (In-class suspension) Leaving school without proper school personnel authorization Truancy Unacceptable language/gesture to an administrator, faculty or school staff member **

Response Options: Restitution of property or damages Saturday Detention Informal hearing with District administration Temporary removal from class Referral to appropriate support agencies

Parent conference Referral to appropriate law enforcement agencies Loss of privileges In-school suspension Out of school Suspension

Level IV: Acts resulting in violence to another person or property, or that pose a direct threat to the health and safety of others in the school. These acts always require administrative action. **Denotes Police notification. Police to be notified and the necessary criminal charges filed. Misdemeanors and Felony Charges. No exceptions. Examples: Unmodified Level II or III misconduct Extortion ** Bomb threat ** Harassment of staff ** Assault/Battery (serious) ** Hazing Vandalism **

Lewdness ** Misdemeanor or Felony theft ** Possession/sale of stolen property ** Setting of false alarms; tampering with fire extinguishers or safety equipment. ** Arson. **

Inappropriate using/furnishing/selling/possession of prescription and/or over-the-counter drugs. ** Using or having used/furnishing/selling/possession/under-the-influence of alcohol, any drug or drug look-alike or any item defined and prohibited by the Pennsylvania Controlled Substance, Drug, Device, and Cosmetic Act of 1972

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as the same amended from time to time, and relate to paraphernalia. Examples of such prohibited items include…but are not limited to marijuana, opiates, and other narcotics. ** Leading or participating in a riot. ** Possession/use/transfer of smoke bombs, weapon(s) or explosive device(s). ** Failure to report knowledge of weapon(s) or explosive device(s). ** Look-alike weapons with the intent of intimidation or misrepresentation Verbal/physical assault toward administrator, teacher, school staff member and/or their property. ** Response Options: In-school suspension Exclusion from school Informal hearing with the Building Administration Referral to appropriate law enforcement agencies and Charges filed.

Referral to appropriate support service agencies Restitution for property and/or personal damages Formal hearing with the District Administration Formal hearing with the Board of School Directors

A student who has been suspended four (4) times shall automatically receive an informal hearing before the Superintendent or designee. Repeated violations of the disciplinary code may result in more stringent action taken by the administration in conjunction with the discipline code. Students who violate the code of conduct will be subject to a range of disciplinary options including: warning, parental contact, detention, Saturday detention, in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension, and expulsion. Any offense or violation may subject a student to any of the above stated options, including a recommendation of expulsion, notwithstanding the recommended responses listed above, when circumstances so warrant. The listed disciplinary regulations do not cover every conceivable situation. All final disciplinary interpretations and decisions are the prerogative of the school administration. Steroids and Other Drugs School Board policy prohibits students involved in school-related athletics from using anabolic steroids, except with valid medical reason. Bodybuilding, muscle enhancement, increasing muscle bulk or strength, and enhancing athletic ability are not considered valid medical purposes. School Board policy also prohibits students from distributing, dispensing, possessing, using or being under the influence of any controlled substance, the definition of which includes anabolic steroids, at any time. Closed Campus – Leaving School Property Students are not permitted to leave the building at any time without proper school authorization. Leaving school without proper school authorization will result in a suspension.

DANCES

Any and all School/club-sponsored dances held throughout the year will have established procedures and requirements as needed. Students need to be aware of those rules.

1. All school rules and consequences will be enforced at dances and social events. 2. Students violating dance rules will have a parent/guardian notified, will be dismissed from the dance,

and may be subject to discipline/criminal charges. 3. At school dances are for high school students only. 4. If event is held on the weekend, students must attend school the Friday preceding the event.

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Electronic Devices Students will be permitted to bring cell phones and music devices (iPods, mp3’s, etc.) to school. However, they MUST be turned off and be put away during the school day, from 7:40 am to 2:25 pm. Any device that is visible to the administration or staff will be considered “in use.”

Any student caught using (Visibility = Use) any electronic device will be subject to the following disciplinary sequence:

1st offense – A parent will be required to pick up the phone in the main office and the student will be suspended out of school one (1) day. 2nd offense – A parent will be required to pick up the phone in the main office and the student will be suspended out of school one (1) day. 3rd offense (and each offense after) – A parent will be required to pick up the phone in the main office and the student will be assigned three (3) days of Out of School Suspension.

Students should be aware that if a cellular/camera/video telephone in a student’s possession with or without administrative permission and is used to take photographs or record audio or video while on school property or at school events, the student may be subject to violation of the state wire tapping laws. (18 Pa C.S.A. section 5703) Emergency Closing and Delay of School When emergencies such as severe weather conditions, utility failures, or other situations require the delay or closing of school, notice is give as early as possible on most television/radio stations (i.e. KDKA, WTAE, and WPXI) Students are to listen for school delay and cancellation information broadcast over these stations, not phone the school. If an early dismissal is required, the information will be broadcast over these stations. Normally, when school is canceled, athletic events, practices and/or other student activities are not conducted on school grounds. Emergency Evacuations Emergency evacuation drills are required by law and conducted for students’ safety. Fire drills are held on a regular basis, or as weather conditions permit, severe weather drills are held annually. Evacuation procedures are posted within each classroom for reference; students should know the procedures and/or exit route in each of their respective classrooms. The following regulations have been established to maintain a safe and orderly evacuation.

1. Students are not permitted to talk during any part of the evacuation. 2. Students are to abide by all teacher, school and emergency staff, and school administration directives. 3. Students are to walk quickly to an assigned exit, moving to designated areas outside the school building. 4. Physically challenged students will leave the room with assistance as needed, reporting to the designated

area on each floor; further instructions will be given by the supervising staff member. Exemption from Specific Instructional Activities Section 1329 of the Pennsylvania School Code provides school districts with the authority to excuse a student from portions of a health course when the subject material, in the judgment of proper authorities, is incompatible with the student’s religious beliefs. Parents who wish to request that their child be excused must submit a signed “request for exemption” to the school principal. When a student is excused from portions of the health course, the teacher will provide alternate assignments from selected materials and adjust until or semester tests so as not to affect the student’s grade. Act 88 provides students the right to decline participation in any education project involving harmful or destructive use of animals (i.e., dissection, vivisection, incubation, capture etc.). To be exempted, the student must submit to the teacher a written request from the parent/guardian at least one (1) day prior to the activity. A student who chooses to refrain from participation in such activity will be offered an alternative education project that allows the factual knowledge, information or experience required by the course of study. If tests require harmful or destructive use of

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animals, students will be offered alternative tests. Students will not be discriminated against for their decision to exercise this right. Locker Searches- School/Gym Lockers are the property of the New Ken-Arnold School district. Each student is provided the use of one locker assigned by the administration. Homeroom teachers maintain a confidential record of locker number assignments and lock combinations for each student. Students are not permitted to use any locker other than their own. Additionally, any changes in locker assignments must be made in the Administration Office. The school administration reserves the right to search lockers, personally or by designee, and/or conduct canine searches. Students are responsible for keeping their lockers clean and locked at all times. Items stored in lockers are the responsibility of students. The school district is not responsible for any loss/theft of items; however, all losses should be reported to school authorities promptly. Locker problems should be reported to the homeroom teacher or administration. With the exception of student lunches, no food or drink may be kept in lockers. Gym lockers are to be used by students in the physical education areas. The school does not provide locks; therefore students may use their own lock to secure their personal items on physical education days. Students may also request physical education teachers to lock valuables in their offices. The school district is not responsible for any loss/theft of items; however, all losses should be reported to school authorities promptly. Loss or Damage of school Property Students who lose or damage any school property (including textbooks, athletic equipment, calculators, etc.) will be held financially responsible for its replacement/repair. Students are notified of their debts to the district through the Delinquent Obligation Notice. A copy of these notices is maintained in the High School Office should the student or parents require details. Students having financial obligations to the district will have their records (including report cards and transcripts) held until payment is made. Students with unpaid obligations will not be permitted to participate in the graduation ceremonies. Students should check the lost and found area in the Administration Office for missing items. Although the school is not responsible for lost or stolen property, students should report, or take, lost or stolen items to the High School Administration Office. All lost property should be sent to the Administration Office. Loss of Privileges Students who lose privileges are denied attendance at all extra-curricular activities (i.e. dances, athletic contests/practices, field trips, clubs, driving to and from school, prom, etc.) during the time of suspension and/or for the time period specified as a disciplinary consequence. Photographs and Videotapes of Students Media requested interviews or photographs of students will only be conducted after the building principal and parent/guardian have been notified and granted permission. An appropriate adult and/or school official must be present during all interviews or photo sessions; no student will be interviewed or photographed while alone. Team/group photographs for extra-curricular activities will be permitted. Candid photographs of students attending school functions will also be permitted. Student Dress The administration recognizes that each student’s mode of dress and grooming is a manifestation of person style and individual preference. However, personal appearance should not disrupt the educational process, call undue attention to the individual, violate federal, local, or state health or obscenity laws, or affect the welfare of the student or his/her

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classmates. Building principals will determine whether student dress is appropriate. In all cases, the decision of the Principal as to the appropriateness of attire is final. Specific dress rules include the following:

1. Hats, sweatbands, bandannas, and head coverings of any type cannot be worn in the school building. ( Including Hoods of sweatshirts )

2. Sunglasses cannot be worn in the school building. 3. Pants, shorts, or skirts must be secured at the waist and cannot be worn “sag styles.” 4. Shorts and skirts should be at least mid-thigh length. Skirts must reach at or below your longest finger tip,

when your arms are held at your side. Shorts must have a minimum 3 inch inseam. 5. Halter, tube, crop, tank tops, spaghetti straps, low-cut tops and abbreviated tops that expose the midriff area

or undergarments are prohibited. 6. No undergarments may be exposed. 7. Coats, jackets, or garment designed for protection against the weather may not be worn in the building

during the school day. 8. Jewelry or ornaments that may cause injury are not permitted; this includes wallet and/or key chains that are

used to secure these items to one’s clothes. 9. Clothing or items that display or advertise messages of drugs, alcohol, sex, profanity, and deviance or have

suggestive meanings are prohibited (i.e. Hook-Ups, Co-Ed Naked, etc.). 10. All males are to wear shirts with sleeves. 11. All females are to wear shirts with sleeves. 12. Boxer-type and spandex (i.e. biker shorts) are not permitted. 13. Ripped or torn clothing is not permitted. 14. Lounging/Pajama pants are not permitted. 15. Slippers are not permitted. 16. Heelies- Shoes with wheels are not permitted.

Students are required to wear specific types of clothing for physical education classes. They may also be required to wear certain types of clothing while participating in labs, extra-curricular activities, or other situations where special attire may be required to ensure the health or safety of the student. Students have the responsibility to keep themselves, their clothes and their hair clean. School officials may impose limitations on student participation in the instructional program where there is evidence that lack of cleanliness constitutes a health hazard. Students inappropriately attired will be required to obtain a change of clothing before return to classes is permitted. Absence from class for inappropriate attire will be considered unexcused and work may not be made up. Additionally, disciplinary action may be taken. Student Identification Cards and Numbers Each student receives a unique identification number. The student number is frequently required information on many forms (i.e. early dismissals, excuses, sports applications, health records, etc.) This number is both on the picture identification card and may also be obtained from a student’s schedule, report card, Guidance office, or the Attendance office. Student Photo Identification Cards are issued at the beginning of each school year. The student’s identification number is encoded on the identification card. The student identification card must be

1. Carried at all times during the school day. 2. Present upon request of any school personnel. 3. Presented to enter all school activities. 4. Returned by graduating seniors to fulfill District obligations for graduation; the cards will be destroyed. 5. Replaced at the student’s expense if damaged, lost, or defective due to tampering or improper care. There

will be a $1.00 charge for the first replacement. Subsequent replacements will be assessed a charge of $5.00 each.

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Cards used fraudulently will be considered as forgery; appropriate disciplinary action will be taken. Students who habitually forget their student identification card will be subject to disciplinary action. Student Spectators Student spectators are expected to demonstrate good sportsmanship and appropriate school behavior during all athletic events or school activities. Participation in athletic contests as a spectator carries specific responsibilities, namely, quietly, and respectfully standing (or singing) for the National Anthem and Alma Maters with hats removed. Responsible spectators also sit in designated student areas, or seats assigned by tickets; cheering is not to be offensive or rudely critical of student athletes or referees. Spectators at drama, musical, or other types of events are also expected to be respectful towards the performers and audience members. Students are prohibited from displaying any unauthorized signs. If the event is held on the weekend, students must attend school the Friday preceding the event. All rules in the Discipline section of this handbook will be enforced. The School District reserves the right to remove any spectator who does not comply with the established student conduct and Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League (WPIAL) rules, and refer to proper law enforcement agencies. Visitors All visitors must register in the Administration Office upon arrival at the high school. Entry without approved registration will be filed as trespassing with the local police. Students are not permitted to bring visitors to school. Arson Any student setting a fire or assisting in the setting of a fire on school property shall be subject to suspension and/or expulsion. Criminal charges will be filed with the appropriate authorities. Any student setting off or attempting to set off a false fire alarm, or telephoning a false fire alert, shall be subject to suspension and/or expulsion. Criminal charges will be filed with the appropriate authorities. Any student found guilty of tampering with a fire extinguisher will be subject to suspension and will be required to pay for the cost of refilling, repairing, or replacing the fire extinguisher. Any student initiating a bomb threat or assisting in a bomb threat to the school shall be subject to suspension and/or expulsion. Criminal charges will be filed with the appropriate authorities. Any student who is in possession of, or who sets off smoke bombs, firecrackers or any other explosive or incendiary devices, shall be subject to suspension and/or expulsion. Cheating/Falsifying Information Any student supplying false information on passes, library slips, parental excuses, phone calls, etc. shall be subject to exclusion. False information would include but not be limited to altering or forging parental excuses, making or conspiring to make false phone calls, etc. Cheating is an attempt by a student to represent someone else’s work as his/her own, knowingly aid in an attempt by another student to misrepresent personal assignments, projects or tests. Students cheating shall be subject to appropriate academic penalties by the classroom teacher. Plagiarism is one form of cheating. Plagiarism occurs when one student copies another writer’s language or ideas without giving that person credit.

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First Offense:

o Handled by teacher; Records, or documentation to be kept by teacher with copy sent to building principal. o Zero to be given assignment, projects or tests where cheating occurred. o The teacher must notify the parent.

Second Offense:

o Notification of building principal by teacher; conference held with parent, teacher, and administrator. o Student receives failing grade for the grading period. o The building principal may impose additional penalties. o Severe or persistent incidents of cheating shall be subject to student exclusion.

CORPORAL PUNISHMENT The New Ken-Arnold Board of School Directors does not permit corporal punishment of students. School authorities (i.e. teachers, principals, etc.) shall have the right to exert reasonable force in the following situations: o to quell a disturbance; o to obtain possession of weapons or other

dangerous objects;

o for the purpose of self defense; o for the protection of persons or property

In all situations where reasonable force has been used, the parents/guardians of the students involved shall be notified. DUE PROCESS PROCEDURE The following procedures shall be followed in the suspension and/or expulsion of a student from the New Ken-Arnold School District: Suspension - The Principal and/or Superintendent, prior to imposing a suspension, shall meeting with the student(s) involved and inform said student(s) of the reasons for the suspension and at this meeting shall give the student(s) the opportunity to present a defense to the alleged misconduct. If the suspension is imposed, the principal shall:

o Immediately notify the parent/guardian of the student by telephone, if possible. o Confirm said telephone calls in writing, setting forth the reason for suspension, the dates the

suspension is to commence and re-admittance is permitted. Expulsion - Prior to the expulsion of a student, a formal hearing must be held as follows: a. Definitions

(1) “Parent” as used herein shall mean parent or parents, guardian or guardians, or person in legal custody of a student. (2) “Board” as used herein shall mean the New Ken-Arnold Board of School Directors.

b. Notice Subsequent to an investigation of the alleged misconduct by the Principal and/or Superintendent, or the Superintendent’s designee, a formal hearing before the Board shall be scheduled. The Board shall give separate written notices by certified mail to both the student and parent or guardian of the student at least five days before the date of the formal hearing. The notice shall contain:

(1) A concise statement of the charges alleged that make up the misconduct or the alleged offense. (2) The name of the person or persons to be charged. (3) The time and place of the hearing.

(4) A statement that the student and parent have the right to appear at the hearing, procure witnesses on their behalf and to be represented by legal counsel. (5) A statement that the student, parent or legal counsel have the right to be presented with the names of witnesses against the student, and the right to demand that any such witnesses appear in person and answer questions or be cross-examined.

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(6) The statement that the student, parent or legal counsel shall have the right upon reasonable request prior to the hearing to examine any written statements about the conduct and to obtain copies thereof, and to examine the student’s academic and behavioral records. (7) A statement that the hearing shall be private unless the student or parent submits a written request prior to the hearing that said hearing is to be public.

c. Time of Hearing before Board The formal hearing shall be held with all reasonable speed and an effort shall be put forth to convene the formal hearing prior to the expiration of any existing full suspension.

d. Hearing Procedure (1) The Board President or designee shall preside at all hearings.

(2) It shall be the duty of the chairperson to instruct the accused student, parent, or their counsel, that the student accused is not compelled to testify, and his/her refusal to testify shall not be construed as an admission. (3) The hearing shall be private and shall be attended by the following: members of the Board, Board Solicitor, and the student accused, his/her parents or guardians, their respective counsel, and all witnesses to be called by the parties involved. At the request of any of the parties involved, or the Board, witnesses may be separated. The accused student, his/her parents or their counsel may request that the hearing be public. However, such requests must be in writing and received by the Board before the hearing begins. (4) All witnesses will be sworn in by a court reporter or the chairperson of the Board. (5) The Board, its solicitor, the student and/or parent/guardian, or counsel for either of them, shall have the right to examine and cross-examine all witnesses. The student or parent/guardian may, in writing, request the attendance of any witness. Such a request must be in writing and received not later than forty-eight (48) hours prior to the scheduled hearing. (6) The Board shall not be bound by technical rules of evidence at the formal hearing, and all relevant evidence or reasonably probative value may be received. (7) The accused student’s past record shall not be consulted or any testimony pertaining thereto received in evidence until after the Board determines the guilt or innocence of the student accused. (8) The testimony of all witnesses shall be recorded by a court reporter or on a tape recording device. The student shall be entitled, at his/her expense, to a copy of the transcript of the record. (9) After the evidence is closed, the accused student, his/her parent/guardian, or their legal counsel, may make a summation of the testimony and argument.

e. Disposition of Case (1) Promptly after said hearing is closed, the Board shall consider the evidence and, by majority roll call vote, determine the guilt or innocence of the accused student. (2) If the Board has determined that the accused student is guilty of the charges, the Board may review the past academic and discipline reports to determine the student’s penalty. Prior to imposing the penalty, the student or his/her parent or guardian, or counsel may make a statement as to any mitigating circumstances in regard to a penalty. (3) If the charges are sustained, the Board shall prepare a written adjudication which shall include findings of fact and conclusions setting forth in summary the evidence and the reasons for its decision and penalty imposed, if any. It shall transmit, by certified mail, a copy thereof to the student accused or to his/her parents/guardians and to their counsel, not later than five calendar days from the date of such hearing.

f. The formal hearing may be conducted in the absence of: (1) The student and/or (2) Said student’s parents or guardians

Provided, however, that the president or his/her designee at the time of the hearing is satisfied that the written notice requirements as required have been complied with and that proof of receipt of said certified mailed notification has been received and made part of the record at the time of the formal hearing.

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g. (1) The Board may issues subpoenas requiring the attendance of witnesses and the production of any documents pertinent to the formal hearing. Should the accused student demand the attendance of any witness, the Board shall, if necessary, issue a subpoena on behalf of the accused student. (2) If a student of New Ken-Arnold School District fails to appear and/or testify at a hearing as either directed by the Board or as subpoenaed by the Board or as directed by the Principal or Superintendent or the Superintendent’s designee, the student may be subject to disciplinary action including possible suspension or expulsion. h. If during a formal hearing, the Board is apprised of information that, if true, would justify the expulsion of any student other than the accused, the Board may set a formal hearing and direct the administration to investigate or reinvestigate the incident prior to the hearing. . A student that has been expelled may request readmission from the Board. Status of Student Pending Suspension or Expulsion During the period prior to the imposition of a suspension, or an, expulsion prior to the hearing and decision of the Board in an expulsion case, the student shall be placed in his normal class except as set forth below. An initial suspension of up to three (3) school days may be extended for up to a total of ten (10) school days for the same offense. When a suspension exceeds three (3) school days, the student and parent shall be given the opportunity for an informal hearing consistent with the requirements set forth in State Regulations relating to hearings. A suspension of three (3) days or less does not require an informal hearing. An informal hearing is required for suspensions from four (4) to ten (10) days. If a formal hearing for expulsion is initiated and it is determined, after an informal hearing, that the student’s presence in his/her normal class would constitute a threat to the health, safety, morals or welfare of others, and it is not possible to hold a formal hearing within the period of a suspension, the student may be excluded from school for more than ten (10) school days provided that the formal hearing is not unreasonably delayed. Any student so excluded shall be provided with alternative education that may include home study. HARASSMENT OR EXTORTION Any student harassing individuals for the purpose of obtaining money or other advantages, or for the purpose of intimidating others, will be subject to exclusion and/or charges being filed against the student with the appropriate authorities. This definition includes sexual harassment or ethnic intimidation (as defined in the Pennsylvania Crimes Code, 2710.) BULLYING Bullying is an action to physically, emotionally, mentally harm a student. Damage or extort or taking students personal or academic property. Placing a student in fear of physical harm. Placing a student in fear of damage to personal property. Creating an intimidating or hostile environment that interferes with a student’s education. Using forms of Electronics to harassing, teasing, intimating, threatening, or terrorizing a student, teacher or other employee of the district. HAZING Hazing is any action by anyone that endangers the mental and/or physical health or safety of another individual. The soliciting, encouraging, aiding, or engaging in hazing by another student, coach, sponsor, volunteer, chaperone or other school employee is prohibited. Students engaged in hazing shall be subject to one or more of the following disciplinary actions:

1. Removal from the activity. 2. Conference with parents/guardians. 3. Referral to local law enforcement agencies. 4. Other disciplinary measures up to and including expulsion.

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Students should report any violation to the adult sponsor or the school administration immediately. Students who fail to report these incidents are also subject to discipline measures. SALE, USE, POSSESSION OR PROCUREMENT OF INTOXICATING BEVERAGES, RESTRICTED DRUGS, ETC. Definition of Terms: (1) Restricted Drugs- includes opiates, hallucinogens, marijuana, barbiturates, heroin, morphine, alcohol, tranquilizers, amphetamines, glue and other solvent-containing substances, any substance that can be inhaled, misuse of prescription drugs, substances listed as controlled substances in either Section 202 of the Federal Controlled Substance Act ( 21 U.S.C. ?812) or Pennsylvania’s Controlled Substance, Drug, Device and Cosmetic Act (35 P.S. ?780-101, et seq.). The term also includes anabolic steroids; provided, however, Human Growth Hormone (HGH) shall not be included as an anabolic steroid. (2) Drug Paraphernalia- Shall include those items as listed in the Controlled Substance, Drug, Device and Cosmetics Act (35 P.S. ?780-101, et seq.). “Drug Paraphernalia” shall also include any forged, stolen or blank prescriptions. (3) Look-a-like Drugs- shall mean a “substance which, or the label or container of which, substantially resembles a specific Restricted Drug and/or Controlled Substance”. The Administration, in arriving at a determination of whether or not a substance is a look-a-like drug, shall be guided by the provisions of the Controlled Substance Drug Device and Cosmetic Act or any comparable or related state or federal statute or regulation. (4) Intoxicating Beverages- shall mean any liquor, malt or brewed beverages or alcohol as those terms are defined in the Liquor Code as amended (47 P.S. 1-101, et seq.) or any comparable or related state or federal statute or regulation. (5) Use- means to ingest, inhale, imbibe or otherwise cause a restricted drug, look-a- like drug or intoxicating beverage to reach the blood stream or digestive tract or be under the influence thereof. (6) Possession- means the possession of any restricted drug, intoxicating beverage, look-a-like drug or drug paraphernalia. Such restricted materials found in a student’s locker are equivalent to possession. Such restricted materials found in an automobile used by a student and located on school property is equivalent to possession. (7) Sale/Sell- shall include any abuse or transfer of a restricted drug, intoxicating beverage, drug paraphernalia, look-a-like drug or over-the-counter drug. “Over-the-counter stimulants and/or depressants” include any substance that can be purchased over-the-counter which can be health endangering when used in any way contrary to the manufacturer’s directions. (8) Distribution- means to deliver or give possession of a restricted drug, intoxicating beverage, look-a-like, over-the-counter drug or drug paraphernalia to another person whether or not said distribution is with or without consideration. (9) School Safety Zone- Students eighteen (18) years of age or older are subject to the School Safety Zone Law, Act 31 of 1988, Section 6314 of the Pennsylvania Crimes Code (18 P.S. 6314). The Safety Zone Law provides minimum sentences for delivery or possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance to a minor on school property or within one thousand (1000) feet of the school’s real property (or as amended from time to time by such Act). Prohibited Conduct – the possession, sale, use, distribution of, or aiding in the procurement of a restricted drug, intoxicating beverage, look-a-like drug, prescription drug/product, over-the-counter drug/product or drug paraphernalia is strictly forbidden. Students participating in such prohibited conduct while on school grounds, during a school-sponsored activity, while going to or from their homes, while using school transportation or violating the School Safety Zone Law shall be EXPELLED from school. The New Ken- Arnold School District has a zero tolerance towards Drugs.

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Notification of Police – When a student is in violation of this Policy the Administration will notify the Police and/or other appropriate authorities. Criminal charges will be filed. Exempted Conduct – A student shall not be considered involved in prohibited conduct if such student possesses and/or uses a substance that falls under the definition of restrictive drug when that student (1) had a valid prescription from a licensed physician and the student is adhering to the physician’s directions and (2) is following the prescription/medication policy of the Health Office in the building in which that student is attending to have the substance in possession. Provided, however, it shall be considered Prohibited Conduct for a student to sell or distribute any such substance even though that student may have complied with the provisions of this paragraph. Over the Counter Drugs - the sale, use and distribution of over-the-counter drugs/products is likewise strictly forbidden. Over-the-counter drugs/products, including caffeine derivatives, stimulants or depressants, may be abused and can cause serious allergic reactions to some users. As such, a student is strictly forbidden from selling, or distributing any such over the counter drugs/products. Students, who sell, use or distribute over-the-counter or prescription drugs/products, purporting them as restricted drugs shall be expelled. Any Student excluded under this provision will be referred to the New Ken-Arnold Education Support Team (NEST) and shall be evaluated prior to consideration for readmission to school. If the student is readmitted, NEST shall evaluate/assess the situation and develope an appropriate plan of action for the student and parent/guardian who shall comply with the recommendations. The plan of action may include enrollment in a substance abuse treatment program during the period of the student’s exclusion and/or return to school. (In no instance shall the recommendations by NEST increase the time of the exclusion in contradiction of Section III.) MEDIA POLICY o Media requested interviews or photographs of students may only be conducted after the building principal and

parent/guardian are notified and grant permission. o Team/group photographs for extra-curricular activities will be permitted. Media requested individual or small

group photographs may be taken only after the building principal and parent/guardian are notified and grant permission.

o An appropriate adult and/or school official must be present during any interview or photo. No student will be interviewed or photographed alone.

o Students and/or faculty are not to be interviewed during the school day, unless permission is granted by the building principal.

o Access to the media shall not disrupt the educational process under any circumstances. Violators will be prosecuted.

o Faculty members will only be interviewed with their consent and with the prior approval of the building principal.

POLICE QUESTIONING AND APPREHENSION It is the policy of the New Ken-Arnold School Board that while a student is properly in attendance, law enforcement officers may not remove a student from a school building for questioning, or question the student in, without the permission of the parent or guardian. The situation will be different; however, if an enforcement officer has a warrant for the student’s arrest or an order signed by a Judge of the Juvenile Division of the Court of Common Pleas. If a crime has been committed on school premises, pupils may be questioned in the school without parental consent. RETENTION OF DISCIPLINARY INFORMATION Information on disciplinary actions taken under the provisions of this policy will be expunged upon the student entering grade 6 and grade 9 except for suspensions of three (3) or more days, expulsions, and other acts on the part of the student which would seriously disrupt the educational processes of the school district or adversely affect the

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health, safety and welfare of fellow students, teachers, administrators or other school personnel. At graduation all disciplinary records will be expunged. SEARCHES OF PERSON AND LOCKERS Lockers are the property of the New Ken-Arnold School District and are to be considered school property; therefore, under certain conditions the appropriate school authorities are free to search lockers. Searches of students’ lockers shall be prohibited unless the building principal or the Principal’s designee has a reasonable belief that a student’s locker contains an article that is in violation of a federal, state, or local law, or is in violation of School Board Policy and or Procedure. In the event a search of a locker or lockers is warranted, said search shall be conducted as follows:

1. The building principal or the Principal’s designee, in the presence of the student and another member of the school staff, may search the student’s locker.

2. In the case of an emergency such as a bomb threat, or if the student is absent, the locker may be searched without the student being present.

The search of a student’s person shall be permitted only when there is a reasonable belief that said student has on his/her person items in violation of federal, state, or local laws or in violation of Board Policy. Such a search shall consist of a pat down only and shall be conducted by a designated school official of the same sex in the presence of another member of the school staff of the same sex. School officials in conjunction with the New Kensington and Arnold Police Departments will conduct random, periodic and canine sniff searches. As a result of such searches, students shall not expect privacy regarding items placed in school lockers. Student Parking Permit Policy o Students must park in spaces provided for student parking ONLY. o Speed limit is 5 miles per hour. Prudent judgment is required because of pedestrian traffic. o All vehicles parked on NKASD grounds are subject to random K-9 sniff searches. o Students who violate the 5 mph speed limit applicable to driving on District property, or who otherwise

drive in a reckless or dangerous manner will have their parking permits temporarily or permanently revoked at the discretion of the administration

o When exiting the student parking lot, drivers must follow the flow of traffic and not cut through parking spaces to advance. Patience is necessary for the safety of all.

o The student assumes all responsibility for loss or damage to his/her car, its equipment and its contents. Cars must be locked in the morning, and must not be entered or moved during the day without official permission. Violation of these regulations may cause loss of parking privileges and possible disciplinary action.

o Students who park illegally (e.g.: in areas not designated for student parking) or who do not have parking permits properly displayed on their vehicles shall receive a written warning for the first such infraction. Subsequent infractions may result in the loss of parking privileges, possible disciplinary action and/or towing of the vehicle at the students’ expense.

o Any student who uses a vehicle to transport another student illegally from school grounds will lose the privilege of parking on school grounds.

o Students who have had their parking privileges suspended or revoked may not have their cars on school property nor drive anyone else’s vehicle on school property. A violation of this procedure may result in the students’ cars being towed at the students’ expense and/or disciplinary action.

o With parking permit comes the responsibility of being on time to school. Students who are late to school excessively will have their parking permits revoked. Any student who is involved in the possession, use, distribution or sale of any types of alcohol, drugs or drug paraphernalia will lose the privilege of parking on school grounds and be subject to the disciplinary actions spelled out in the NKASD Code of Conduct.

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1. Parking permits must be hung from the rear view mirror with the printed information facing the windshield. Any vehicle parked in the student lot without a valid permit may be towed at the owner’s expense.

2. Vehicles must be parked in assigned spaces. 3. The only places available for student parking are in the main parking lot. 4. Vehicles parked in the wrong space or in an unauthorized area will be towed at the owner’s

expense and the permit will be subject to revocation without refund. 5. Vehicles should be parked front-end first. Backing into spaces is not permitted. The student

shall receive a written warning for the first such infraction. Subsequent infractions may result in the loss of parking privileges.

6. Only one tag will be issued per student. Students may register up to two of their family vehicles. The tag may be moved from one registered family vehicle to another, but may NOT be sold, given, or loaned to another student for his or her use. The penalty for so doing is revocation of parking privileges. Spaces may NOT be shared by students.

7. Students shall inform the Athletic Office immediately of any changes in vehicle information.

POSSESSION/USE OF TOBACCO OR SMOKING PRODUCTS Students shall be prohibited from possessing and /or using tobacco, tobacco products (including smokeless tobacco products) while in a school building, on school property, or while traveling on school buses. This policy will also be in effect for all school-sponsored activities. Students smoking, chewing snuff, or in possession of any tobacco products are in violation of Act 145 of 1996 and commit a summary offense. Charges will be filed automatically with the Police Depts. for secondary students, who are subject to fines that can be assessed b the district justice. Fines for the violation of this summary offense may be a maximum of $50. The school may also impose a minimum of an In-School suspension. Students smoking on a school bus have the same rules apply. Students may also lose bus-riding privileges for this violation. Students serving as lookouts for smokers shall be subject to a minimum of a temporary suspension. Secondary students found in violation of this rule may also be subject to a minimum of an In-School suspension. Repeat offenders of any of these rules may be subject to an Out of School suspension or expulsion. WEAPONS It is a misdemeanor of the first degree for any person to possess weapon in the buildings or upon the grounds of any public school in the New Ken-Arnold School District. In addition, Federal Gun-Free Schools Act and Pennsylvania Act 26 of 1995 require adherence to certain discipline and reporting requirements in the event a student is in possession of a weapon or firearm. As such, students are prohibited from possessing a weapon (1) in any New Ken-Arnold School District building (2) on any grounds of the New Ken-Arnold School District (3) in any conveyance (including private) providing transportation to or from New Ken-Arnold School District (4)at any school function, activity or event whether or not held on New Ken-Arnold School District grounds; or (5) while the student is on his/her way to or from school. Definitions:

1. Weapon- Shall include but not be limited to any knife, cutting instrument, cutting tool, nun-chuck stick, brass or metal knuckles, firearm, shotgun, rifle; chemical agent such as mace, explosive devices including but not limited to pipe bombs, and any other tool, instrument, or implement capable of inflicting serious bodily injury.

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2. Firearm- includes actual firearms of any type whatsoever, which will or is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive, the frame or receiver of any such weapon, any firearm muffler or silencer, any destructive device, pellet guns, BB guns, and look-alike firearms, whether they be capable of operation and whether they be loaded or unloaded. Any device which is authorized by the school for a legitimate educational purpose (such as tools, play properties, pallet knives and the like) or any device or object which has been given prior approval by the Principal in connection with any educational programs or extra-curricular activity is not considered to be a weapon.

3. Possession- means being on the person of the student, in the student’s locker, or otherwise under his or her direct or indirect control while the student is on school property, on property being used by the school or at any school function or activity, or at any school event held away from the school or while the student is on his/her way to or from school.

4. Destructive device- shall include any bomb, grenade, and rocket having a propellant charge of more that four (4) ounces, missile having and explosive or incendiary charge of more than one-quarter ounce, mine or device similar to any such devices.

Investigation Procedures: Every school employee and/or student who has knowledge of a weapon being impermissibly on or in school property shall immediately inform a building administrator who will immediately conduct an investigation. A person who has knowledge of a weapon being in school or on school property shall be subject to disciplinary proceedings if the person does not immediately report the matter. If reasonable suspicion exists that a student possesses a weapon, the principal or school official will conduct a search according to the approved procedures; including lockers, book bags, vehicles, etc. Teachers and school authorities to obtain possession of weapons may use reasonable force or other dangerous objects as provided by the Rules and Regulations of the State Board of Education. If the student resists such a voluntary search, the principal or school official shall immediately summon the local police and request assistance. The parent or guardian of the student shall likewise be notified. Under no circumstances shall the school official act as the student’s informed adult in regard to any Miranda Warnings given by the police when they appear. The school official shall follow the procedures for any student locker searches. If a weapon is found and confiscated, the Superintendent shall assess the circumstances of the possession, including but not limited to the type of object confiscated, the intent of the student and the potential threat of danger to the school community. The Superintendent may recommend to the Board of School Directors disciplinary action less than expulsion as required herein, on a case-by-case basis. All incidents involving the possession of a weapon prohibited shall be reported by the Superintendent or the Principal to local law enforcement officials and have charges filed. The Superintendent shall report all incidents relating to expulsions for possession of a weapon pursuant to this policy, to the Department of Education, Office for Safe Schools. In the event a student with a disability is determined to be in possession of a weapon in violation of this policy, all steps will be taken to comply with the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act, as amended, and other applicable Federal and State law and regulations. Look-alike weapons shall be considered under these provisions and are subject to the same procedures and punishment. Cafeteria The school cafeteria is maintained as a vital part of the health program of the school district. To encourage good nutrition, a well-balanced lunch is offered at a reasonable price. All students are to either purchase their lunch or bring one from home. Additionally, breakfast and dinner are served daily.

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The cafeteria is an ASSIGNED CLASS; Therefore, all students MUST report to the cafeteria whether the eat lunch or not. Students are to be in the cafeteria ONLY during the lunch period that is assigned to them. Those students violating this rule will face disciplinary action. Students may be assigned specific tables or areas at the discretion of the teachers on duty in the cafeteria or by an administrator. Cafeteria duty teachers have the same authority in the cafeteria as they do in the classroom. Students MUST conduct themselves in a mature and courteous fashion entering the cafeteria, while they are in the serving lines, while eating, while disposing of trash, and while exiting the cafeteria. While eating in the cafeteria, students will:

1. Deposit all lunch litter in the wastebasket. 2. Return trays and utensils to the dishwashing area. 3. Leave the tables, chairs and floors in a clean condition for others. The eating areas are the responsibility of

the entire table, not single individuals. 4. Not take any food from the cafeteria. 5. Not throw any object of any type, any distance. 6. Keep conversations at a reasonable volume. 7. Use the lavatories adjacent to the cafeteria. 8. Pay for broken or damaged plate ware, and flatware 9. Remain in the cafeteria unless permission is received from the monitors. 10. Pay for food items; credits will not be issued, unless covered by the NKASD Policy. Any student stealing

will be disciplined and will be subject to criminal charges. Any student caught throwing any object in the cafeteria will receive a three (3) day suspension. Cafeteria monitors may assign clean-up duties, detention, or recommend suspension to the administration. Violations of the lunch regulations may result in a student’s cafeteria privilege being revoked. It is each student’s responsibility to leave his/her area clean and free of trash. When asked, students should be polite and cooperative about cleaning an area even if the trash there is not belong to them. Students should report areas that are repeatedly left untidy to cafeteria monitors. STUDENTS ARE NOT PERMITTED TO TAKE FOOD OR DRINKS OUT OF THE CAFETERIA

STUDENT – PARENT ATHLETIC PARTICIPATION INFORMATION Philosophy Interscholastic athletics supplement and support the academic mission of the school system and assist students in their growth and development. Athletics assists in promoting the importance of teamwork, effort, goals, and commitment. Interscholastic athletics is highly competitive, but winning is not the primary measure of success. Sportsmanship, respect for participants, and dignity in the face of adversity are more important than the outcome of the contest. All athletes do not perform at the same level, but all can demonstrate effort, dedication, and fair play. Sportsmanship An important mission of the interscholastic athletics program is to teach and reinforce values relating to sportsmanship, competition, and fair play. It is expected that team personnel, parents, and spectators respect this mission by exhibiting appropriate behavior at athletic events. Countywide team and school awards are presented annually to schools whose coaches, players, and fans, demonstrate a high degree of sportsmanship.

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Student Eligibility Requirements Students must meet the following requirements to be eligible to participate. Participation of ineligible students shall result in individual and team sanctions, including forfeits for the team. 1. All participants are required to have a valid annual medical evaluation. 2. All participants are required to turn in a signed Student/Parent Athletics Participation Contract before being

allowed to participate in practices or contests. 3. Academic eligibility is determined on every Thursday for the following week. 4. Students must attend all of their scheduled classes in order to participate in a practice or contest on that day. If

the principal or designee grants an excused absence in advance for a prescheduled activity, or an unforeseen emergency, the student may participate on that day.

5. If during the season a student has an unexcused absence, he/she may not compete in the next contest after the violation has been verified.

6. In addition to other infractions, a student may be suspended or removed from a team for repetitive unexcused absences and/or tardiness to classes or team practices. This infraction to be monitored by the School Principles.

7. Students shall be ineligible for interscholastic athletic competition upon attaining the age of nineteen (19) years of age on or before July 1st of any given school year.

8. A student may not participate when he/she is serving an in-school or out-of-school suspension. The student becomes eligible to participate on the next school day following the suspension.

9. Students must satisfy school and school system Participation Standards. 10. Students whose legal residence is outside the designated boundaries of the New Kensington-Arnold School

District has no right to an education by the District and accordingly no eligibility for participation in the Districts interscholastic athletic programs. .

11. Students must agree follow all team rules outlined by a coach or face the necessary Disciplinary action, from a coach, including but not limited to the removal from the team.

12. Students should refer to the New Kensington-Arnold Code of Conduct handbook for 13. additional guidelines and regulations related to eligibility. Assumption of Risk Participation in interscholastic athletic activities often includes intense competition and poses the potential for serious, catastrophic, or life-threatening injury. Participants and parents are urged to consider that there are inherent risks and hazards associated with athletic participation. Risks vary from sport-to-sport and can occur under direct supervision and with use of proper safety equipment. Accordingly, each student athlete and their parents assume the risk of injury associated with athletic participation. Hazing Hazing is prohibited at all times. Hazing involves any act that subjects teammates to mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule. In some instances hazing constitutes a criminal act. At a minimum, hazing may lead to immediate dismissal from a team. Communication with Coaches Parents should not attempt to address coaches immediately after games and practices. Coaches have many post game/practice responsibilities, including supervision of players. Also, the post game/practice period is often emotionally charged, and not conducive to productive discussion. If a parent feels a need to communicate a concern, the parent should contact the coach and/or athletic director to arrange a later meeting. Participation Standards Participation in interscholastic athletics is a privilege. Accordingly, students must meet certain standards in order to earn the privilege of participation. At a minimum, the following standards are required of all student-athletes. 1. Exhibit public behavior that will reflect positively on the team, school, and community. 2. Exhibit responsible, respectful, and trustworthy behavior to teammates and the coach.

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3. Exert efforts to maintain a high level of academic achievement. 4. Comply with all team issued rules, school rules and regulations, all WPIAL and PIAA Rules, the rules

promulgated by the Pa School Code of 1949 and the laws of the Commonwealth of PA. 5. Exhibit appropriate behavior at all team and school-related activities. 6. Attend all team functions unless ill or given prior permission to be absent by the coach. 7. Respect and comply with decisions made by the coach and athletic department. 8. Respect calls and decisions made by game officials. 9. Display good sportsmanship at all times. 10. Report to the coach any issues or developments that may affect eligibility status. Illegal Substances/Alcohol/Tobacco/Steroids/Controlled Substances NKASD regulations state that any student-athlete with verified use, distribution, or possession of alcohol, tobacco, illegal drugs, and/or controlled substances on school property or at a school sanctioned event, may be subject to suspension or expulsion accordingly, and may also be subject to Criminal Prosecution. Valuables Students are strongly urged not to bring large sums of money or valuables to school. If students find themselves in situations where they MUST bring a large sum of money to school, they should secure it in the main high school main with one of the office personnel. Especially during physical education classes, items such as wallets and jewelry should be locked in main hall lockers or secured with the phys. ed. teacher. Leaving valuables in pockets, purses, or gym lockers is very unadvisable. Students are responsible for the care and safety of all their personal belongings. The school will not accept responsibility for lost or stolen articles. Book Responsibilities The whereabouts and condition of textbooks assigned to students are their responsibility. If a book is lost, stolen, or damaged, the student to whom the book was assigned is responsible for paying for it. A book that is not turned in to the proper authority at the appropriate time will be considered lost and will become the student’s financial obligation. Financial Obligations Students who incur financial obligations to the school will not have access to report cards, grade information, or other school records until the financial obligations have been met. Financial obligations often occur due to:

• lost or damaged books • lack of payment for fundraising activities • debt to the cafeteria

• unreturned materials to the library • athletic team uniforms

These are certainly not the only ways that students may incur debts, but they are the most common. No students who, at the time of graduation, continue to owe money to the school will receive a cap and gown or take part in the graduation ceremony in any way. Use of School Telephones If a parent/guardian telephones the school with an urgent message for you, the office personnel will notify you as quickly as possible and you may return the call. However, students are NOT to ask for permission to leave class to use a telephone. Except in the case of dire emergencies, students are NOT permitted to use the office telephones during the school day. Even in a dire situation, students may only use the phone AFTER ASKING AND RECEIVING PERMISSION OF OFFICE PERSONNEL. Assembly/Auditorium Behavior and Procedures In the event of an assembly, students should remain in the rooms where they are assigned until they are called to report to the auditorium. When they are notified to report to the auditorium, students should report directly there. They should make NO stops – at lockers, restrooms, or anywhere else – on their way to the auditorium. Students must remain quiet and attentive during all programs. Whistling, booing, hooting, calling out people’s names, and all other acts of discourtesy show a lack of maturity and respect. They also damage the reputation of the entire student body. Therefore, a courteous reception should be extended to everyone who performs in an assembly, regardless of the type of program.

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SECTION V. PROCEDURES AND PROGRAMS Hall Passes Student accountability is imperative in the operation of an efficient school. When a student wishes to leave the classroom – FOR ANY REASON – he or she should first ask the teacher for permission to leave. If the teacher is inclined to grant the permission, he or she, at that point will issue the student a Hall Pass that includes the student’s name, the time, destination and the teachers signature. Teachers may continue to use or may initiate their individual procedures for students who leave the classroom (e.g. making up the time after school, etc.) When the teacher signs a hall pass, he or she is giving the student permission to be in the halls during class time; he or she is NOT exempting the student from the standard procedure for leaving the classroom that is traditionally in effect. Students found in the halls without a signed pass will be escorted directly to their classroom or the Administrative Office. Such an infraction will be viewed like any other infraction, and progressive disciplinary steps will result. All students are encouraged to use the restroom facilities before and after school, between classes, and during their assigned lunch times; they are strongly urged to visit their lockers before school, before lunch, and after eighth period. Aside from these times, students and teachers should work to keep students in class. STUDY HALLS Students are assigned study halls during periods where they do not have academic classes. Study halls are, in deed, assigned classes. All rules and procedures that apply to classes apply to study halls; however no credit is awarded for the completion of a study hall. Students are expected to bring enough work to study hall to keep them busy the entire period. Students who have received library passes from their subject teacher may use the library during study hall; students MUST secure their library passes in the proper place. Students may also use study hall time to do make up work for other teachers; they must secure a pass from the subject teacher prior to arriving at the study hall and present it to the study hall teacher at the very beginning of the study hall class period. Students who do not follow the rules and procedures of study hall will face progressive disciplinary action. VOCATIONAL/TECHNICAL STUDENTS Students who attend Northern Westmoreland Career and Technology center are required to follow certain guidelines: • Morning Vo-Tech students are to report directly to their 1st period class at 7:40 am. Upon their dismissal from the Vo-Tech,

students are to enter Valley through the main lobby, and report to the designated area. • On days when the Vo-Tech does not have school but Valley does, AM Vo-Tech students are required to report to the

attendance office no later than 10:30 AM to have their presence recorded. If a student in this situation does not report to the attendance office, then the day will be considered an unexcused absence.

• Most assemblies and special school functions will include Vo-Tech students. In these cases, the Career and Technology Center will be notified that shared students will remain at Valley for the activity. Students will be made aware of this condition via the PA system. If students are NOT notified, then they should report to the Career and Technology Center as usual.

• Afternoon Vo-Tech students will only be permitted to re-enter the high school after the final bell for the day. They also must attend the Vo-Tech lunch, and are prohibited from being in the student parking lot during the school day.

CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES PARTICIPATION For any student participating in a co-curricular activity, i.e., athletics, performances, plays, clubs, school-related organizations, etc., the student attend school regularly, be in attendance the day of the event, performance, or practice, have no outstanding obligations, and maintain a record of academic proficiency. Students who are not academically proficient in any course must attend study table. Students who are serving OSS may not participate in practice and/or the event during the time of their suspension. This also includes weekends if the student is suspended on either a Friday or a Monday.

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If students are arrested within the communities of the New Kensington-Arnold School District, even if not on school property or at a school event, they can lose their ability to participate in co-curricular activities. CLUBS AND ACTIVITY PERIOD Students at Valley High School have the opportunity to join a variety of clubs and organizations. Not only does being involved in clubs become an item of high priority when applying to colleges, but statistics also show that students have better grades, attendance, and behavior when they are involved in an assortment of activities. Ideally, every student would join at least one club. Students may join as many clubs as they wish, but if they join more than one, they will have to balance the time they spend in meeting with those clubs. FIELD TRIPS Students who have the opportunity to go on field trips must complete travel request forms. These forms include having the students’ parent’s or legal guardian’s signature as well as the signatures of each of the students’ subject teachers. If the travel request form is not submitted to the sponsor of the field trip by the time of departure, then the student who failed to submit the request cannot go on the trip. Also, if a student does not obtain the signatures of two or more teachers because of academic difficulties, he or she is not eligible to go on the field trip. Some field trip sponsors require that all teachers sign the travel request. The final decision of who goes on a field trip is left to the trip sponsor and the building administrators. Under no circumstances will field trips be permitted during the first three weeks or last full three weeks of the school year. VISITORS TO VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL The school policy is to welcome only those visitors who have legitimate business at the school. Guests and visitors must sign in at the front desk and report to the main office for authorization before proceeding to their destinations in the school. Visitors are expected to leave promptly once their business has been completed. Students are not allowed to bring guests to school – not even their own offspring or siblings. If a situation arises where a student wishes to have someone tour the building with him or her, then that student should receive permission to do so from a building administrator. The request for such permission must be made at least 5 school days prior to the time of the tour. EDUCATIONAL TRAVEL Parents who wish to take their children away during the school year must present a written request to a building administrator at least 10 school days prior to the first day of absence. The request must include the specific dates of absence, the destinations of the trip, and the date of return to school. It must also include the parent’s signature. If the building administrator approves the trip, the student must then complete the teacher portion of the travel request form. This form must be submitted to the attendance office prior to the first day of absence. In addition to the parent’s request and the student’s travel request, students who go on educational travel will be required to complete a project based on the educational goals of the trip. The building administrator who approves the educational travel will assign this project, and the student will submit the project to that administrator at a time agreed upon by the student and the administrator. If both requests and the project are acceptable, then the days of absence will be considered excused absences, and all make up work from these days will count for credit. If any part of this process is incomplete, then the affected student is subject to unexcused absences and may be denied credit or opportunity for make up work. No excused absences for family trips and educational tours will be granted during the first or last two weeks of the school year or during PSSA testing. Students and parents who choose to disregard the administration’s decision not to approve an absence will be subject to the established guidelines and procedures for unexcused absences and the attendance policy.

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SCHEDULING After the conclusion of the first semester each year, school counselors will visit classrooms for grades 9, 10, and 11. They will explain the requirements for each grade, and they will make suggestions for all students to consider as they begin to select classes for the next school year. Following this general meeting, school counselors will meet individually or in small groups with each student to help him or her to make the best class choices. After this meeting, students will take their course requests home to review with their parents. Parents will sign the course request sheet if they approve of the selections. If parents have questions, they are to contact the counseling office. On the first day of school, students will receive their schedules with the courses they selected. A student who wishes to change educational paths – which will involve major schedule changes – must do so within the first sixty days of the school year. No changes in educational paths will occur after the sixtieth day of the school year. INDEPENDENT STUDY This elective is an opportunity for highly motivated students to pursue concentrated study in a topic/subject area of their choosing. It is structured so that students work independently and are responsible for completing the terms of their Independent Study Contracts. Students must consult first with the counseling office to get a copy of an Independent Study booklet and to read very closely the guidelines for both students and teachers. If a student agrees to these guidelines, then he or she should proceed with the approval process. The application must be signed by the student, the parent, and the counselor confirming the commitment to taking the Independent Study for credit. Final approval is given by the building principals. Students may take Independent Study for credit (1/2 or 1). Half-credit courses require 60 hours of work while full-credit courses require 120 hours. To earn credit, students and teachers of Independent Study must maintain a time log for the duration of the Independent Study period. Each work session must be documented independently on the log sheet. Entries of weeklong sessions or more extended periods of time are not acceptable. This time log must be submitted to the high school office at least two weeks prior to the end of each semester. Failure to submit a time log at the prescribed times will result in zero credit for the Independent Study Program. Also, students who submit time logs which are short of the number of required hours will not be given credit for the Independent Study. HOME/SCHOOL COMMUNICATION Undoubtedly, one of the most effective ways to promote student success is for parents and educators to maintain on-going communication. The forum for this communication is multi-fold: • Parents are notified every time their child is absent via a computerized calling system. Between 5:30 and 9:30 AM on the

day that a student is absent, that student’s parents will be called, and a computerized message will be left. If no person or recording device answers the call, then no message can be left. If parents call the attendance office in the morning to notify the school that their child will be absent that day, they may or may not receive a phone call.

• When a student misses a number of days equal to a multiple of 5, a form known as a “habitual absentee letter” is mailed to his or her parents or legal guardians noting the number of days the child has missed. The purpose of the letter is to inform parents of the number of days that their child has missed. It is merely an informational correspondence.

• Twice during each nine week grading period (every three (3) weeks) the school will provide progress notices similar to the quarterly report card. The purpose of the notices is to make parents aware of the performance of their child before the grade appears on the report card. This effort is made in hopes that parents, with the help of all school personnel, can work with the student to help him or her improve the grade in the near future.

• Parents may leave phone messages for teachers any time during the school day. Teachers will return these calls as promptly as possible during their planning period. If too much time elapses before hearing back from a teacher, parents should contact a building administrator or a school counselor.

• Parents may schedule conferences with teachers and administrators at any point in the year. If the conference involves only one teacher, parents may wish to schedule the conference by speaking to that one teacher. If the conference involves several teachers or other school personnel, parents should contact a building administrator or a school counselor to schedule the conference. Conferences MUST be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance.

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• Parents are notified by mail when their child has served a day of in-school suspension. The purpose of these letters is to inform parents of the infraction which brought about the in-school suspension, of the date of the in-school suspension, and of the procedures that their child should follow to make up work missed during the suspension.

• Parents are notified by phone when a student is suspended out of school. In cases where parents and no other emergency contacts can be reached, a letter is sent home with the student at the end of the day before the suspension begins. In all cases, follow up letters are mailed to confirm with parents the reason for and dates of the out-of-school suspension. The purpose of this communication is to help prevent repeat offenses.

FIRE DRILLS For the safety of all concerned and by State Law, schools are required to have fire drills. These drills are practiced so that the building can be evacuated quickly and safely in the case of a real emergency. Teachers will review with students the evacuation plan from their respective rooms, and they will each post the evacuation plan in their room. The following precautions MUST be taken during fire drills: • Cease all work. • Close all windows. • Close doors to rooms after everyone has left. • Keep as quiet as possible in case further instructions

are aired over the PA system. • Walk quickly, but do not run.

• Make no stops on the way out of the building. • If the exit that has been designated is blocked, move to

the nearest open exit. • Move to the student parking lot and move far enough

back to leave the fire lane completely empty.

TECHNOLOGY PRECAUTIONS All students having access to New Kensington-Arnold School District computers, related computer hardware and software, audio-visual equipment, electronic security equipment, and all other technological facilities must abide by strict and unyielding regulations set forth in the security agreement statement. This agreement must be signed both by students and by their parents or legal guardians before a student is permitted to use any technological devices in school. Tampering with, vandalism to, or unauthorized use of the New Kensington-Arnold School District’s computers, related computer hardware and software, audio-visual equipment, electronic security equipment, and all other technological facilities is strictly prohibited. Violations of this policy may also constitute violations of the Pennsylvania Crimes Code or other statues, subjecting violators to serious criminal prosecution. This policy is intended to be as broad and encompassing as Section 3933 of the Pennsylvania Crimes Code, 1995. The Westmoreland Intermediate Unit has established an ethics code to insure that its Internet accounts are being used for lawful and educational purposes. Failure to adhere to this code can result in the suspension of Internet accounts and accessibility as well as prosecution under state and federal laws, where applicable. 1. All use of the Internet at school must be for instructional or educational purposes. 2. Only authorized users may access the Internet. 3. To safeguard privacy, users should never reveal their names, addresses, or phone numbers to other Internet users. 4. The following uses of the Internet at school are strictly prohibited:

• for personal or private business • for product advertisement of any kind • for political lobbying • to duplicate copyrighted material • to play games which are not used for educational

purposes

• to access pornographic material of any kind • to communicate any threatening, obscene, or

harassing remarks • to tamper with, interfere with, or intercept e-mail

5. Users must delete e-mail messages on a weekly basis to conserve file server space. Users may be charged a fee for e-mail that has remained longer than seven days. The charge will be based on the disk size of the e-mail.

6. In order to insure adequate resources for all users, the Westmoreland Intermediate Unit reserves the right to log Internet use and to monitor file server space and bandwidth while respecting the privacy of user accounts.

TALENT SEARCH PROGRAM The Talent Search Program is federally funded through Penn State University to provide services, information, direction, and guidance to middle and high school students, grades 6-12. The two main goals of the Talent Search Program are to help participants successfully complete secondary education and to assist them in selecting and enrolling in some form of post-

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secondary education or training. Most Talent Search students come from low-income households where no one has completed a higher education degree. Students from these backgrounds often face the most difficult challenges in completing secondary education and in pursuing higher education. At least two-thirds of participants in a given year must fall under these circumstances. Program counselors strive to meet with each participant monthly. They hold workshops on different topics related to post-secondary education, academics, and careers. STUDENT ASSISTANT PROGRAM (SAP) TEAM The SAP team is designed to offer help to students who are at-risk for any of a variety of reasons. The team accepts referrals from teachers, administrators, other school personnel, parents, and students. Upon receiving a referral, the team will discuss the nature of the referral and will then decide how to proceed with it. In most cases, behavioral checklists are given to all the teachers and coaches of the referred student in order to gain more information about the problems that the student may be facing. Once this data is collected, it is presented to the team so that they may make further recommendations about how to proceed. If the team feels that some type of intervention or treatment is needed to assist the student, then the parents or legal guardians of the students are asked for their permission to do so. If parents accept the assistance of the SAP team, then the team’s recommendations are carried out. If parents reject the assistance, then the referral is closed and no further discussion about that student occurs. Strict confidentiality is maintained throughout the entire referral, intervention, and treatment process. Students who are experiencing difficulties or who know of fellow students who are struggling should make a referral to one of the SAP team members: STUDENT LUNCH ACCOUNTS Each year, students forget, lose, and misuse their money. For this reason, the Board adopts this policy to govern situations when students do not have lunch money or when their lunch accounts have insufficient funds. Prepayment of accounts is allowable in all grades. Student ID is used to access their account and roster systems. The Board shall permit students to charge two lunches. Parents/Guardians shall be contacted for payment. Then students will receive peanut butter and jelly or cheese sandwiches until the account is settled. Students who owe money will not be permitted to purchase ala carte items until their balance is paid. The district shall inform students and parents/guardians in writing of the district’s policy regarding nonpayment at the time they begin participating in the lunch program

SPECIAL EDUCATION

Mission The New Kensington-Arnold School District provides a free, appropriate, public education to exceptional students. To qualify as an exceptional student the child must be of school age, in need of specially designed instruction and meet eligibility requirements as set forth in the state of Pennsylvania, under Chapter 14 standards and regulations of special education service delivery. To be identified as an exceptional student one or more of the following mental or physical disabilities must be present: autism, pervasive developmental disorder, blindness, visual impairment, deafness, hearing impairment, mental retardation, multi-handicap, neurological impairment, other health impairment, specific learning disability, serious emotional disturbance, or speech and language impairment. To be identified as a gifted student, the child must be of school age, and meet the eligibility requirements set forth in the state of Pennsylvania, under Chapter 16 standards and regulations. The criteria for mentally gifted under Chapter 16 is “a person who has an IQ of 130 or higher and when multiple criteria indicate gifted ability”. Screening Procedure To ensure eligible students are receiving a free, appropriate, education a screening procedure is conducted at no cost to the parents. The procedure consists of various screening activities including: review of group-based data (health records, cumulative records, report cards, and achievement scores), hearing, vision, physical and speech/language screening, as well as review of an outside agency report. During this process a six-week intervention occurs to address the student’s needs in the regular classroom. At the end of the six-week intervention, when screening results suggest a student might be exceptional, the Team meets with the school psychologist who seeks parental consent to conduct an evaluation. A parent can seek an evaluation at any time through a written request to the school principal.

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Multidisciplinary Team If a full evaluation is warranted, the Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) begins an evaluation process. This team includes parents and child development professionals, such as psychologist, special education teacher, school nurse, principal, and/or counselor, and regular education teachers. The team evaluates the child, then makes recommendations of eligibility based on the needs identified. Information provided and included in this report is developmental history, behavioral strengths and needs as provided by the parents, other evaluations made by psychiatrists, pediatricians, etc., intelligence and achievement testing, and reports including behavioral and academic strengths and needs. Once the Multidisciplinary Evaluation (MDE) is completed, the team will develop an Evaluation Report (ER) which will include recommendations as to the child’s eligibility for services, and types of services required. The parents will receive a copy of the ER and will be asked to agree or disagree with the contents and recommendations. The Team has sixty (60) school days from written parental permission to presenting a written report to parents. Services for Students in Nonpublic Schools Parents of nonpublic school students who suspect their child is exceptional and in need of special education may request a multidisciplinary evaluation through a written request to the superintendent or the Westmoreland Intermediate Unit #7 Nonpublic School Supervisor at 724-836-2460. Exceptional Students

Services designed to meet the need of exceptional students include the annual development of the Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a Gifted Individualized Education Program (GIEP), reevaluations in accordance with Chapter 14 and 16, support intervention in the regular classroom, supplemental interventions in the regular classroom or in the special education resource room, and placement in a part-time or full-time special education class in either the regular school or another location outside of the regular school. The extent of special education services and the location of the delivery of such services are determined by the IEP Team and are based on the student’s identifiable needs and abilities, chronological age and the level of intensity of the specific intervention. The district also provides related services such as transportation, physical and occupational therapy required for the student to benefit from the special education program. Confidentiality of Student Records The privacy rights of parents and students is mandated by federal legislation known as the Family Educational Rights to Privacy Act of 1974 (Buckley Amendment, state regulations Chapter 14 and 16) and district policy. The different categories of information maintained by the school district are: educational and health records, personally identifiable information and directory information. With the exception of receiving school districts, educational and health records, and personally identifiable information cannot be disclosed or released without parental consent or if a student is eighteen years or older without their consent. Information known as directory information can be released without consent. Directory information means information which would be considered not harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. This information includes: student’s name, address, date of birth, courses taken, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received and the most previous educational agency or institution attended by the student. Written parental, or a student age eighteen or older, request is required for the disclosure of educational and health records, and personally identifiable information. The consent must specify the records that may be disclosed, purpose of the disclosure, and identify the party to whom the disclosure may be made. A written record of the disclosure must be maintained by the school district. Informational access and school records are available to parents, their representatives, and to students eighteen years of age or older. Non-Discrimination Statement It is the policy of the New Kensington-Arnold School District not to discriminate on the basis of sex, race, religion, color, national origin, age handicap, or limited English proficiency in its educational programs, services, facilities, activities, or employment policies as required by Title IX of the 1972 Educational Amendment, Title VI and VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as amended, Section 504 regulations of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, Section 204 regulations of the 1984 Carl D. Perkins Act or any applicable federal statute. For information regarding program, services, activities and facilities that are accessible to and usable by handicapped persons, or for inquiries regarding civil rights compliance contact: New Kensington-Arnold School District, or the Director of the office Of Civil Rights, Department of Health, Education and Welfare, Washington, D.C.