Woodbury Alternative Education Program

Student/Parent Handbook2018-2019

SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION

Dr. Jason VivadelliPrincipal

Dr. Gary ScavetteAssistant Principal

CENTRAL ADMINISTRATION

Ms. Lynn DiPietropoloSuperintendent of Schools

Ms. Nancy McCabeBusiness Administrator

Ms. Donna Cohen Director of Pupil Personnel Services K-12

Dr. Jeffrey AdamsDirector of Special Services K- 12

BOARD OF EDUCATION

Kathy MangeriPresident

Steven R. AbbottVice President

Members

Melissa Catando, Joseph Coldren, Eric Hill, Elizabeth Mcilvaine, David Pipolo, Peggy A. Ulmer, Amy Sylvester,

Nora Campo (student representative)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Assistant Principal’s Message 4

2018-2019 Alternative Program Calendar and Schedule 5

Attendance 7

Academic Information 11

Health and Welfare 14

Expectations for Student Behavior/Dress 15

Re-Entry Into Woodbury Senior High School 18

Faculty List

Governing Regulation

Parent/Guardian Signature Page

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July, 2018Assistant Principal’s Message

The faculty and administration at Woodbury City Public Schools recognize that the traditional

school setting may not always be the best approach to educating every student. Some students flourish

academically, socially, and emotionally when given an opportunity to learn in an environment that provides

low student to teacher ratios, self-paced learning opportunities, and fosters the enhancement of social and

emotional competencies. The Woodbury Alternative Education Program was created to serve this

population of students and reflects our district’s commitment toward being leaders in personalizing

education.

It is my hope that this handbook will serve as a guide for both parents and students for the operation

of our school. Within the pages that follow you will find valuable information pertaining to the multiple

component of our program including our school’s calendar. Please take some time to become familiar with

its contents.

I look forward to working with you this year. As always, I regard communication with parents to be

a vital link to the success of our program. Together, with your support, we will make this an outstanding

year at the Woodbury Alternative Education Program.

Sincerely,

G. ScavetteDr. Gary D. ScavetteAssistant Principal

Woodbury Alternative Education ProgramSEPTEMBER6 First Student Day20 Early Dismissal-Alternative Staff In-Service26 Early Dismissal- Back to School Night

OCTOBER8 No School – Columbus Day25 Early Dismissal-Alternative Staff In-Service

NOVEMBER7 No School-Faculty In-Service8 No School-NJEA Convention21-23 No School-Thanksgiving

DECEMBER5-6 Early Dismissal13 Early Dismissal - Alternative School Parent Teacher Conferences24-31 No School-Winter Break

JANUARY1 No School-New Year’s Day21 No School- Martin Luther King, Jr Day31 Early Dismissal-Alternative Staff In-Service

FEBRUARY18 No School-President’s Day

MARCH14 Early Dismissal-Alternative Staff In-Service

APRIL15-22 No School-Spring Break

*NOTE: Emergency closing days are expected to be added, if necessary, during this span of daysMAY

27 No School-Memorial DayJUNE

6 Early Dismissal -Alternative Staff In-Service13-18 Early Dismissal Days18 LAST DAY OF SCHOOL

2018-19 Woodbury Alternative Education Program Calendar

NOTE: During early dismissal days students are dismissed at 5:00pm

Any day when Woodbury Junior-Senior High School is closed the Woodbury Alternative High School is also closed. SCHOOL CLOSING NUMBER: 806

Visit Woodbury’s Website at: www.woodburysch.com

ATTENDANCE SECRETARY (856) 853-0123, Extension 261

Alternative Program Schedule

A-Day B-Day C-Day3:05-3:20 Staff and Student

Arrival/Group TimeStaff and Student

Arrival/Group TimeStaff and Student

Arrival/Group Time3:20-4:20

Core 1H.S. Group 1-Math/SciH.S. Group 2-Eng/SS

Jr High-PE

H.S. Group 1-PEH.S Group 2-Math/Sci

Jr. High-Core

H.S. Group 1-Eng/SSH.S. Group 2-PE

Jr. High-Core4:20-5:20

Core 2H.S. Group 1-Eng/SS

H.S. Group 2-PEJr. High-Core

H.S. Group 1-Math/SciH.S. Group 2-Eng/SS

Jr High-PE

H.S. Group 1-PEH.S. Group 2-Math/Sci

Jr. High-Core5:20-5:40 Lunch-All Staff and

StudentsLunch-All Staff and

StudentsLunch-All Staff and

Students5:40-6:00Advisory

andElectives

H.S Group 1-Advisory with Math/Sci teacher

and PE Teacher(Offline)

H.S. Group 2 and Jr. High-Electives with Jr

High Teacher and Eng/SS teacher

H.S Group 2-Advisory with Eng/SS teacher and

PE Teacher(Offline)

H.S. Group 1 and Jr. High- Electives with Jr.

High Teacher and Math/Sci teacher

Jr. High Advisory with Jr. High teacher and PE

Teacher(Offline)

H.S. Group 1 and H.S. Group 2 Electives with Math/Sci and Eng/SS

teacher6:00-7:05

Core 3H.S. Group 1-PE

H.S. Group 2-Math/SciJr. High-Core

H.S. Group 1-Eng/SSH.S. Group 2-PE

Jr. High-Core

H.S. Group 1-Math/SciH.S. Group 2-Eng/SS

Jr High-PE

MISSION STATEMENT

Building upon our history, diversity and beliefs, the mission of the Woodbury Public Schools, a leader in personalizing education, is to ensure each child becomes a responsible citizen who excels in his or her endeavors and meets life’s challenges with courage, confidence and pride; this is accomplished by utilizing proven instructional strategies and innovative methods by highly skilled and dedicated individuals in partnership with families, our city, and the global community.

OUR MASCOT

Woodbury Alternative Education Program

- Home of the –

THUNDERING HERD

Attendance

A secondary student will be present for one-hundred sixty-six (166) days in order to be awarded course credit regardless of the reason for the absence, except that absences for the observance of religious holidays and absences caused by a student’s suspension will be counted toward the one-hundred sixty-six (166) day total.

A secondary student denied course credit may attend a credit completion session to regain the denied credit, provided the student has been in attendance for one-hundred forty-five (145) days. Exceptions to this rule may be made for students who have demonstrated through completion of home assignments and/or home instruction or attendance in an approved credit completion assignment that they have mastered the proficiencies established for the course of study during prolonged absences.

For courses meeting for less than a full year, a student needs to be in attendance ninety percent (90%) of the days.

Truancy or “unexcused absence” for local disciplinary purposes is defined as a student’s absence from all or a part of the school day without the knowledge of the student’s parent(s) or legal guardian(s). A student will also be considered truant if he/she:

o Leaves school without permission, o Leaves class because of illness and does not report to the school administrator as directed, oro Is present in school but is absent from class without approval. Such truancy from class is a “class cut.” A student will be identified as

truant if he/she is not present for a scheduled class or classes for more than a total of 15 minutes in a given school day. This includes but is not limited to: Taking too much time to move between classes Requesting to use the lavatory and not returning for a period in excess of 15 minutes. Medical conditions will be considered if

student provides a note from a licensed physician.

Tardiness is defined as late arrival for the school day. One (1) instance of unexcused tardiness will equal one (1) unexcused absence at the Woodbury Alternative School. Any student who arrives at school later than 3:20 p.m. will be considered tardy and subsequently will not be granted attendance credit for the day. A student assigned to the Remote Educational Adjustment Program (REAP) must also adhere to this policy by logging on during regular alternative school hours from a remote location.

Tardiness at the alternative school is defined as missing more than 15 minutes of class for any reason.

Notice to school of a student’s absence

o The parent(s) or legal guardian(s), or adult pupil is requested to call the school office before 3:00pm of the afternoon of the student’s absence.

o The parent(s) or legal guardian(s), or adult pupil who anticipates a future absence or anticipates that an absence will be prolonged should notify the Alternative School Guidance Counselor who will assist in the arrangement of make-up work.

Readmission to school after an absence

o A student returning from an absence of any length must present to the Principal or his/her designee, a written statement, dated and signed by the parent(s) or legal guardians(s), or adult pupil, of the reasons for the absence.

o A note explaining a student’s absence for non-communicable illness for a period of more than three (3) school days must be accompanied by a physician’s statement of the student’s illness.

o A student who has been absent by reason of having being suspected of having a communicable disease must present to the School Nurse written evidence of being free of communicable disease, in accordance with Policy No. 8451.

Instruction

Students absent for any reason are expected to make up the work missed. The student is responsible for requesting missed assignments and any assistance required. Teacher will provide make-up assignments as necessary.

o In general, students will be allowed one (1) day to make up missed work for each one (1) day of absence. Teachers shall make reasonable accommodations to extend time for students.

o A student who missed a test because of an excused absence shall be offered an opportunity to take the test or an alternate test.

Denial of course credit

The teacher will determine the credit to be awarded a student for make-up work, subject to the rules set forth in this section. Where class participation is a factor in the learning process, the teacher may consider a student’s absences in determining a final grade, except that absences for the observance of a student’s religious holiday, for a suspension from school, or a school-sanctioned event cannot adversely affect the student’s grade. The teacher may record an incomplete grade, in accordance with Regulation No. 2624, for a student who has not had full opportunity to make up missed work.

o No student who is absent from school for observance of a religious holiday may be deprived of any award or of eligibility for or opportunity to compete for any award because of absence.

In addition to the requirements as outlined in FILE CODE: 5113 ATTENDANCE, ABSENCES, AND EXCUSES, a student deemed truant shall be subject to appropriate student discipline.

Appeal1. A truant student may be suspended or expelled for truancies in accordance with policy. 2. A student who has been retained at grade level for excessive absences may appeal that action in accordance with policy. 3. A student who has been denied course credit for excessive absences may appeal that action in accordance with the following

procedures:

a. The student shall file a written appeal to the Principal or his/her designee within five (5) school days of receiving notice of the action. The appeal should state the reasons for admitted absences, documentation that would reduce the number of absences, and reasons why the student should continue to be enrolled in the course and/or receive course credit.

b. The Principal or his/her designee will respond in writing no later than five (5) working days after receiving the student’s appeal.

c. If the student is not satisfied, he/she may submit a written request to the Attendance Review Committee.

d. On the student’s request, the Principal shall convene an Attendance Review Committee consisting of Director of Pupil Personnel Services, Counselor, a teacher, Nurse, Case Manager, where appropriate, and Principal or his/her designee. The Attendance Review Committee shall meet informally to hear the student’s reasons for reenrollment and/or credit. The student’s parent(s) or legal guardian(s) and teacher may attend the meeting.

e. The Attendance Review Committee shall decide the appeal and inform the pupil in writing within seven (7) working days of the meeting. The committee may impose conditions on any reenrollment and may require the student to agree to those conditions.

f. The student may appeal an adverse decision of the Attendance Review Committee to the Superintendent, the Board of Education, and the Commissioner of Education, in that order and in accordance with Policy No. 5710, Pupil Grievance. Resort to the Attendance Review Committee shall be considered to have exhausted the first step of the grievance.

Lateness and Early DismissalThe Board of Education requires that students be in attendance for the full school day in order to benefit from the instructional program. That requirement will be waived only when compelling circumstances require that a student be late to school or dismissed from school before the end of the school day.

The Principal may excuse for cause the late arrival and early dismissal of a student on the prior written request of the student’s parent or legal guardian. Good cause may include, but need not be limited to, medical and dental appointments that cannot be scheduled outside the school day, medical disability, a motor vehicle driver’s test, interviews for college entrance or employment, and court appearances. In order to provide as much instruction and as many educational opportunities as possible for our students, all students are to be scheduled for a full four (4) period day with no early dismissals.

TruancyA student is truant if absent from school without the knowledge and consent of his/her parent or guardian. Truant students, which include students who cut class, forfeit any opportunity to make up work missed caused by either infraction; a zero (0) is assigned for the day’s work in all classes. Truancy also involves consequences outlined in the Student Conduct Code.

Saturday attendance school programStudents in danger of losing credit because of attendance will have the opportunity to attend the Saturday Attendance School program to make up absences. The program will be held once each month beginning in January through June. Students are expected to bring their books and assignments from their regular scheduled classes. A secondary student may only receive credit for attending the Saturday Attendance School Program if he/she has been in attendance for one-hundred forty-five (145) days.

Academic Information

Woodbury Jr. – Sr. High School’s comprehensive program seeks to meet the educational needs of all students as they prepare for further studies and/or career training upon graduation.

High School Graduation Requirement for the Alternative Education Program

Language Arts Literacy 25 credits 21 Century Arts 5 credits

Mathematics 15 credits World Language 5 credits

Science 15 credits Visual and Performing Arts

5 credits

Social Studies 15 credits Physical Education/Health

Economics

3.75 every year

2.5 credits

Service Learning 2.5 credits Life Skills (includes 4 hrs/week of community internship)

Must complete each year

Note: in addition to the requirements above students must successfully complete the current state assessments required for graduation.

GraduationOne hundred thirty (130) credits will is required to graduate. The language arts requirement will be reduced from twenty five (25) to twenty (20) credits, with the omission of the English 100 requirement.

College credit bankQualified juniors or seniors are permitted to take courses at Gloucester County College and Rowan University. Online courses are also available. See your counselor for more information.

Summer schoolStudents must achieve a minimum final grade of at least 50 and meet the Woodbury Jr.-Sr. High School attendance requirements (a minimum of 165 days) to attend summer school.

In all grades, students must meet the attendance policy expectations (Policy 5200) in addition to the academic expectations stated here.

Physical Education Requirements

Required dress

All students are required to have appropriate gym attire that permits safe movement. Piercings and jewelry that may be a hazard to a student or others is not permitted. All garments must be in compliance with the school’s dress code.

Shorts: FINGER TIP LENGTH; Elastic waist. (zippers, buttons, snaps, cargo pants are not permitted)

Tee Shirt: Socks:

Sneakers: Must have full backs. (platforms or sandals are not permitted)

Sweats may be worn.

Medical excuses– All PE medical excuses must be generated through the school nurseIn the event either unfortunate circumstance occurs and causes you not to be able to participate: Daily PE excuse:

Submit a medical note directly to the alternative school assistant principal who will consult with the school nurse. If the medical note is for one day a daily medical pass will be issued and you will be given the opportunity to complete a

written assignment to receive credit for the day or making up the missed class at a later date

Extended PE excuse: More than five (5) days:

Submit a medical note directly to the alternative school assistant principal who will consult with the school nurse. An alternative assignment will be provided. Note: It is the responsibility of the student to make arrangements with the

teacher for this assignment. Year long medical PE excuse:

Submit a medical note directly to the nurse Student will be reassigned to another subject by the Counseling department. No credit will be earned for PE.

Physical education- make upStudents who attend class unprepared for physical education will lose points for the day and are not permitted to make up the class/points.

Students absent or suspended from school will be required to make up work for every three days missed from class. It is the student’s responsibility to schedule the make-up with the physical education teacher. Students charged with truancy or cutting class are not permitted to make up lost points.

Physical education grading systemSuccessful completion of physical education is required every year a student is in school. PE grades are based on the following components: AttendanceParticipationPreparedness Social Development

EffortSkillsApplication in game

Physical FitnessFitness testingWritten tests

Core Academic Subjects (Social Studies, Science, Math, English) and ElectivesCore academic subjects and some electives are offered through the Woodbury Alternative Program through a self-paced competency based environment. This is accomplished through the use of Educere which delivers the majority of the content online. Students are provided with a broad array of class options to meet the general graduation requirements of Woodbury Public Schools. Students are provided a rigorous engaging curriculum that assesses their competency as they move through each unit in the class. Students that struggle with the content are able to go back and retake unit assessments until they can demonstrate mastery prior to taking a comprehensive exam. The content of each course is aligned to Woodbury’s core content standards and the New Jersey core content standards. Each Educere learning lab is staffed by a certified teacher and a special education teacher is present on site for assistance. Grades are reported through PowerSchool at mid- marking period and the end of each marking period. Additionall, parents may request Educere progress reports. Teachers and guidance personnel will monitor a student’s progress as they move toward graduation requirements.

Educere makes it possible for students to have instruction from any computer with internet access. This affords students the opportunity to get caught up outside of regular school hours if necessary.

Life SkillsAll high school students are required to take life skills class throughout their time in the Woodbury Alternative School. The course is designed to help students to develop the skills required to be productive citizens outside of school and to enhance social and emotional competencies.

Community InternshipEach Friday students are expected to perform four (4) hours of community internship. This 4 hour commitment is required for graduation from the Woodbury Alternative Program. The community internship requirement is designed to assist students in developing the skills required to integrate into the workforce and to reinforce the bond between students and their community.

Students may earn community internship hours in the following manner: From an employer (if the student is employed) Through volunteer work in the community. (daily chores for a family member or relative do not qualify as community internship) Through an additional school enrollment (vocational school, college classes, certification program) Through continued independent work through the Educere learning environment

NOTE: A student may gain all required hours (4) on days other than Friday.

All students will be required to show documented evidence of meeting the community internship requirement.

Jr. High Instructional HoursIn addition to the standard alternative school program that operates Monday through Thursday, Jr. High Alternative School students must log an additional 4 hours each week outside of regular alternative school hours working through the Educere learning environment. This is required for grade level promotion.

Social/ Emotional Services at Woodbury Alternative SchoolThe Woodbury Alternative School is able to provide social/emotional support for its students in both a small group and individual setting throughout the week. Parent/Guardians must first provide consent for students to receive this service.

Students receive support and guidance in a variety of areas including but not limited to:

Anger management Peer relationships Family Relationships Stress Anxiety Substance Use/Abuse Parenting

Health and Welfare

Please inform the school immediately of any existing medical conditions for your child.

Health ServicesIndividual medical records are maintained for every student. Parents/Guardians are occasionally asked to provide the school nurse with information to maintain the complete records necessary for medical-health services. Current information is especially important as it relates to immunizations.

MedicationThe school nurse or a parent/guardian is the only person permitted to administer medication. When medication (prescribed or over-the-counter) is required during the school day, written orders from your physician and a written request from your parent/guardian must be submitted to the nurse. All medication must be in its original, labeled container.

Illness during School HoursIf a student becomes ill during the school day they are to report to the assistant principal’s office with a pass from a teacher. If necessary, the assistant principal will notify the parent/guardian to pick up the student. Students must always report to the assistant principal’s office to sign out before leaving the building with a parent or guardian.

School LunchesAll alternative school students are extended the opportunity to have school lunch each day utilizing the district’s lunch program. Students are also free to bring their own lunch. Students may not order take-out food that is delivered to the school. Free and reduced lunch forms are available in the main office.

Affirmative ActionStudents are guaranteed affirmative action rights in instructional and co-curricular activities as provided under Federal and State law. Students shall not be discriminated against in regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, or national origin. All related concerns should be directed to the building principal or the district’s Affirmative Action officer, Mr. Edward Murphy (Counseling Office, ext. 225).

Harassment/Intimidation and BullyingAs per Board of Education policy 5512.01, all acts of harassment, intimidation or bullying are prohibited. A safe and civil environment in school is necessary for pupils to learn and achieve high academic standards Harassment, intimidation or bullying, like other disruptive or violent behaviors, is conduct that disrupts both a pupil’s ability to learn and a school’s ability to educate its pupils in a safe environment.

Any person with any information regarding actual and/or potential planned hazing and/or information regarding acts of harassment, intimidation or bullying of pupil by any school employee or other pupils must report the information to the building principal directly or by phone or email. ** Reporting individuals are protected by law from any reprisals.

We-Tip (Anonymous Crime tip-line)Parents or students can make anonymous reports of crime in the school, including acts of vandalism, to the We-Tip hotline by calling 1-800-78-CRIME/1-800-782-7463. The hotline is staffed 24 hours/365 days per year. All calls are anonymous and confidential.

2NDFLOOR® New Jersey’s Youth Helpline The New Jersey Youth Helpline, 2NDFLOOR, is a toll-free, anonymous and confidential helpline available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to all New Jersey young people, ages 10 to 24. Youth can call 2NDFLOOR at 1-888-222-2228 to speak with professionals and trained volunteers who listen attentively, non-judgmentally and compassionately to issues and problems they are facing. Visit www.2NDFLOOR.org for more information.

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Expectations for Student Behavior

Woodbury Alternative School is committed to protecting the health and safety of all of our students. We believe an orderly and respectful environment is most conducive to learning. These conditions will be achieved when students practice self-discipline and comply with school regulations.

Remember, the authority of faculty and staff, is in no way limited to the classroom, assigned students, or in areas of supervision. All faculty and staff are authorized by the school to enforce rules and regulations at all times.

This student conduct code provides students, parents/guardians, faculty and staff with guidelines and expectations to maintain a learning environment that provides opportunities of success for all. The code includes, but is not limited to, the written system of acceptable conduct and consequences for violations which are outlined on the following pages.

Creating a Safe Respectful Environment for Learning Disrespect directed at other students or staff Insubordination Fighting Harassment, intimidation, bullying Being in an unauthorized place in the building or on school property Being on school property at times other than that which is designated as alternative school hours (3:05-7:05pm) Leaving a learning group without authorization Skipping class/school Inciting disturbance Unauthorized use of technology Use of cell phone at any time while on school property. Cell phones may not be seen or heard while an alternative student is on

school property Disruptive behavior Profanity Lewd remarks / behavior Theft Vandalism / Graffiti Dress code violations Drug/alcohol offenses Weapons offenses Cheating/Plagiarism

Consequences1st violation of any behavior code- The student is placed in the REAP for one day2nd violation of any behavior code- The student is placed in the REAP for three days3rd violation of any behavior code- The student’s Individual Program Plan is modified and the student is placed in the REAP for the remainder of the school year.NOTE: Severe behaviors which may include, but are not limited to, fighting, vandalism, inciting a severe disturbance, drug/alcohol possession, or weapons offenses may result in the student’s Individual Program Plan being modified and that student’s placement into the REAP for the remainder of the school year with the first offense.

Dress CodePlease note: The intent of this dress code is to keep our students safe and focused on learning. The dress code applies throughout the duration of the alternative school program and/or when students attend a school sponsored event – including athletic events – on or off school grounds. The administrative staff may also modify the dress code for specific school sponsored activities.

Students should wear SAFE, day-time appropriate clothing that is NOT excessively tight, sheer, short, low-cut, or revealing Clothing should NOT display suggestive, obscene, or inappropriate images or language There will be NO outerwear including hats/head-coverings, gloves, or sunglasses Students CANNOT wear skirts, dresses, or shorts with the length falling above the fingertips of an open hand with a fully extended arm Footwear will be worn at all times Appearance that continually disrupts the normal operation of the school will be subject to review and possible disciplinary action

Drugs and AlcoholAny violation of Board rules prohibiting the use, possession and/or distribution of a substance is a serious offense, and the student who violates a substance abuse rule will be disciplined accordingly. Repeated violations are more severe offenses and warrant stricter disciplinary measure.

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In accordance with the administrative discipline code, and after due process procedures have been enacted, students suspended for substance abuse will be suspended up to ten (10) days or until a board hearing for first time offenses. Students failing to accept or to respond to treatment in a positive manner will face additional penalties. “Positive manner” is defined as refraining from further use or abuse of the substance.

Adequate Academic ProgressStudents enrolled in the alternative education program are assessed each month to ensure that they are meeting adequate academic progress standards. (AAP) In addition to providing students and parents with valuable information regarding student progress, a student’s AAP status is used to determine their eligibility to return to the regular education program as well as to participate in various incentive activities conducted at the alternative school. At this time students are also required to provide evidence of community Internship hours (High School Students) or additional time on Educere (Jr. High students) as a requirement for promotion.

Remote Educational Adjustment Program (REAP)

A student may be assigned to REAP if they demonstrate an inability to follow the alternative school code of conduct. Students assigned to REAP are able to work remotely on standard Educere coursework and other assignments provided by alternative school teachers. Teachers communicate with students directly through the Educere portal or through e-mail during regular alternative school hours. Students assigned to REAP may work during regular alternative school hours when their teachers are able to assist.

Student Arrival, Departure, and Proximity

In an effort to provide continuous supervision throughout the duration of the alternative program, students have been provided defined arrival and departure times. Additionally, students are only able to be present in specific regions of the building where alternative staff are located.

Arrival

Students may not be on school property before 3:00pmStudents must be at the Annex steps (Broad Street Entrance) by 3:05pmTeachers begin classes at 3:20pmStudents that arrive after 3:20pm are considered absent

Proximity of Alternative School Students

Students are only permitted to be on the second floor of the Annex throughout the duration of the alternative school program unless escorted elsewhere by a staff member.

Departure

Students are expected to depart each evening through the Annex, Broad Street entrance.

Out of School Suspension

Students that are assigned to Out of School Suspension are not permitted on school property, or, to participate in any extra-curricular activity until the term is of the suspension is complete.

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Re-Entry into Woodbury Senior High School

Students may be placed into the Woodbury Alternative School through two distinct processes. The nature of the process determines the minimum duration of their stay at the alternative school.

Placement through the IRSC (Intervention and referral service committee) and/or the school principal. Students must spend a minimum of one (1) full semester (or its equivalent) in the alternative program.

Placement through the Woodbury Board of Education. Minimum duration is determined through a board hearing.

In order for a student to be considered for re-entry into Woodbury Senior High School, the following conditions must be met:

The student must have been in the program for the period of time described above(see above). The student must have achieved adequate academic progress in all enrolled classes for a minimum of one semester leading up to the

desired transition. The student must have at least a 90% attendance rate for a minimum of one semester leading up to the desired transition. The student may not have behavioral offenses worthy of suspension or admission into the remote adjustment program.

Once a student has met the requirement for re-entry to Woodbury Senior High School a meeting is arranged with the Alternative School Assistant Principal, the Senior High Principal, the student, and the parent or guardian. If it is determined that the student is re-admitted to the Woodbury Senior High School, he/she joins the program with all associated privileges. The student is placed on a probationary period for a term of twelve (12) weeks. The condition of the student’s probation is outlined below:

12 Week Probationary Period- Standards

Student adheres to attendance/truancy policy. Student maintains a GPA that is comparable to that which was obtained at alternative school Student adheres to all discipline policies. Any offense worthy of issuing an out of school suspension will result in violation of

probation and immediate return to alternative school.Student must check in with the Alternative Supervisor, at the minimum, on a weekly basis and provide academic/behavioral progress reports as issued by teachers. However, these sessions may be as frequent as the student finds necessary to assist in the transition. The alternative school supervisor may serve as a student advocate in facilitating a successful transition back to the day school

If a student violates their probation they will immediately be placed back into the alternative school and will not be evaluated for re-entry into the day school program for the remainder of the school year.

2017-2018 Woodbury Alternative School Faculty List

Assistant Principal Dr. Scavette

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Guidance Counselor Ms. McLister

Special Education Mr. O’Leary

School Psychologist Dr. Adams

High School Academics Mr. Berg

High School Academics Mr. O’Leary

High School Academics Dr. Adams

Physical Education Mr. Brendan Butler

Jr. High Academics Ms. Amy Smith

Jr. High Academics Ms. Vetter

Hallway Supervisor Mr. Jones

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Governing Regulation

Regulation 6172- ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION PROGAMS

Establishment of Alternative Education Programs

The Alternative Education Program approved and established by the board shall be separate and distinct from the already existing programs operated by the board.

Annually, the school district shall obtain certificates of fire inspection and, if applicable, health, sewerage plant and health, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) inspections for an alternative education facility. These certificates shall be maintained and available upon request for review by the Department of Education.

Alternative Education is a comprehensive educational program delivered in a non-traditional learning environment that is distinct and separate from the existing general or special education program. The program should be developed for the purpose of addressing the individual learning, behavior and health needs of students determined by the school district to be at risk of school failure or who have been mandated for removal from general education.

Program Criteria

The alternative education program in the district will fulfill the following program criteria for the high school and middle school programs, unless otherwise noted:

A. A maximum student-teacher ratio of 12:1 for high school programs;

B. A maximum student-teacher ratio of 10:1 for middle school programs;

C. An individualized program plan (IPP) will be developed for each general education student enrolled in the program;

D. For a student with a disability, the alternative education program shall be consistent with the student's Individualized Education Program (IEP);

E. Individualized instruction to students shall address the New Jersey State Standards in mathematics and language arts and literacy;

F. Instructional staff shall be appropriately certified, pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:9B-5.2;

G. Compliance with attendance policy (see board policy 5113 Attendance, Absences and Excuses) shall be required;

H. Academic instruction sufficient to fulfill graduation requirements (see board policy and regulation 6146 Graduation Requirements) shall be provided to high school students;

I. Comprehensive support services and programs shall address each student's health, social and emotional development, and behavior;

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J. Case management services including, but not limited to, monitoring and evaluating student progress and coordinating instructional and support services shall be provided;

K. Services to facilitate the transition of students returning to the general or special education program shall be provided; and

L. A minimum student enrollment period of not less than two (2) complete and consecutive marking periods/quarters shall be required.

1. If the student is enrolled with less than two (2) complete and consecutive marking periods/quarters remaining prior to the end of the school year, the decision regarding continued placement in the alternative education program shall be made according to the procedures below in the section titled Student Placement;

2. If the student is removed from the general education program and placed in an alternative education program as a result of a firearm or assault with a weapon offense, the superintendent may modify the term of removal or placement on a case-by-case;

3. For the student with a disability, the enrollment period shall be determined by appropriate school personnel.

Student Placements

Student placement is determined with the Multidisciplinary Team may consist of the following staff, but not limited to, the Intervention and Referral Service (I&RS) members, an administrator, counselor, Child Study Team (CST) members, Vice Principal of the Alternative Education Program, teachers, and/or parents. The members of this team must have knowledge of student’s educational, behavioral, emotional, social and health needs.

Once a determination has been to place a student in the Alternative Education Program, the Vice Principal of the Alternative Education Program will develop a multidisciplinary team to develop the IPP. The members of this team must have knowledge of student’s educational, behavioral, emotional, social and health needs.

A student’s placement in an alternative education program shall be made as follows:

A. For the general education student, the Board shall make a determination of the student's risk for school failure and a decision regarding the student's placement in an alternative education program, at a minimum, based on the following:

1. The review of the student's academic, health, and behavioral records, including the student's IPP, if one has been developed and the results of available testing, assessment or evaluation of the student;

2. Consultation with and notice to the student's parents/guardians;3. Information provided by the school-based multi-disciplinary team responsible to provide

intervention and referral services or other multi-disciplinary team, as appropriate4. Based on the recommendation of administration.

B. Students may be placed into the Woodbury Alternative School through two distinct processes. The

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nature of the process determines the minimum duration of their stay at the alternative school.1. Placement through the I&RS (Intervention and Referral Services) Committee and/or the school

principal.2. Placement through the Woodbury Board of Education and duration is determined through a board

hearing.

C. Decisions regarding the placement of the student with a disability in an alternative education program shall be based on the recommendation of appropriate personnel including but not limited to teaching staff and the child study team;

D. The district shall provide mandatory placement for a student in an alternative education program for removal due to a firearms offense or an assault with weapons offense:

1. If placement in an alternative education program is not available in the instance of a mandatory student placement, the student shall be provided home or out-of-school instruction until placement in an alternative education program is available (see board policy 6173 Home Instruction);

2. For the student with a disability, placement in an alternative education program for a firearm offense or an assault with a weapon offense shall occur only upon a determination by appropriate school personnel to place the student in accordance with the provisions of N.J.A.C. 6A:14-1 et seq. Special Education Programs and the Individuals with Disabilities Act of 2004, 20 U.S.C. § § 1400 et seq.

Development of Individualized Program Plan (IPP)1. The IPP will be developed by the school district in which the student is enrolled, in

consultation with the student's parents/guardians and the receiving school district, as appropriate;

2. The IPP will be developed by a multidisciplinary team of professionals with knowledge of the student’s educational, behavioral, emotional, social, and health needs;

3. The IPP will identify the appropriate instructional and support services for addressing the student's identified needs;

4. The IPP will be developed in accordance with the format prescribed by the Commissioner of Education and implemented within thirty (30) calendar days of the student's placement in the district’s alternative education program;

5. The IPP may, but need not, be developed prior to the student's placement;6. A multidisciplinary team will review and, as appropriate, revise the IPP prior to the

completion of the student's anticipated enrollment in the alternative education program or prior to the end of the school year, whichever occurs first;

7. The multidisciplinary team shall review and revise the IPP, as needed, at any time during the student's enrollment in the alternative education program;

8. The multidisciplinary team that reviews the IPP shall include staff from the sending school and the alternative education program who have knowledge of the student's educational, behavioral, emotional, social, and health needs;

9. The student's parents/guardians shall be advised of revisions to the IPP.

Alternative Education Program in another District or Agency

If the student is placed in an alternative education program outside the district, the sending district shall be responsible for ensuring compliance with the requirements law and board policy and regulation.

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Students from another District

The Woodbury Board of Education will consider the placement of a student from another school district if there is room available in the program and for a tuition fee to be determined by the Business Office.

Continued Placement/Change of Placement

Decisions regarding continued placement in an alternative education program or a change to a student's placement shall be made as follows:

A. For the general education student returning to the general education program, the continued placement decision shall be made in accordance with “A” of section titled Student Placements above;

B. For a student with disabilities, the continued placement decision shall be made in accordance with “A”. of section titled Student Placements above, and as appropriate, “C” above, and N.J.A.C. 6A:14-1 et seq. Special Education Programs.

Re - Entry into Woodbury Senior High School

In order for a student to be considered for re-entry into Woodbury Junior-Senior High School, the following conditions must be met:

The student must have been in the program for the period of time described above Program Criteria Subsection L, and Student Placements Subsection B, above.

The student must have achieved adequate academic progress in all enrolled classes for a minimum of two (2) complete and consecutive marking periods/quarters one semester leading up to the desired transition.

The student must have at least a 90% attendance rate for a minimum of two (2) complete and consecutive marking periods/quarters leading up to the desired transition.

The student may not have behavioral offenses worthy of suspension or admission into the remote educational adjustment program.

Once a student has met the requirement for re-entry to Woodbury Junior-Senior High School a meeting is arranged with the Alternative School Assistant Principal, the Senior High Principal, the student, and the parent or guardian. If it is determined that the student is re-admitted to the Woodbury Junior-Senior High School, he/she joins the program with all associated privileges. The student is placed on a probationary period for a term of one (1) marking period/quarter. The condition of the student’s probation is outlined below:

One (1) Marking Period/Quarter Probation Period Student adheres to the attendance/truancy policy. Student maintains a GPA that is comparable to that which was obtained at the alternative

education program. Student adheres to all discipline policies. Any offense worthy of issuing an out of school

suspension will result in violation of probation and immediate return to the alternative education program.

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Student must check in with the Alternative School Assistant Principal, at the minimum, on a weekly basis and provide academic/behavioral progress reports as issued by teachers. However, these sessions may be as frequent as the student finds necessary to assist in the transition. The alternative school supervisor may serve as a student advocate in facilitating a successful transition back to the day school.

If a student violates their probation they will immediately be placed back into the alternative education program and will not be evaluated for re-entry into the day school again for the remainder of the school year.

Home Schooled Students

Home schooling is an educational program provided at home, usually by the parents/guardians of the child. Children are taught using their own curriculum or published home school curriculum. The board of education recognizes that home schooling is an option for parents/guardians under the compulsory education law.

A. Legal Requirement for Compulsory Attendance

1. N.J.S.A. 18A:38-25 requires all children six to 16 years to attend the public schools or a day school in which there is given instruction equivalent to that provided in the public school for children of similar grades and attainments or to receive equivalent instruction elsewhere other than school;

2. The parents/guardians of a child that is home schooled is responsible to ensure their child receives instruction equivalent to that provided in the public school for children of similar grades and attainments or to receive equivalent instruction elsewhere other than school;

3. The superintendent may report to the appropriate municipal authorities those children whom he/she has reason to believe are not offered instruction outside the schools equivalent to that offered in the public schools for children of similar ages or attainments;

4. If the superintendent makes a report, the parents/guardians of a student receiving instruction elsewhere other than school may notify the superintendent of their child’s educational program status and provide sufficient information to satisfy the district that equivalent instruction is being offered;

5. Parents/guardians of a home schooled student are not required to seek approval from the district or to submit materials to the superintendent in order to permit it to make a determination as to the equivalency of the instruction.

6. The New Jersey Department of Education encourages a parent to notify the superintendent of the intent to educate the child elsewhere than at school to avoid questions with respect to compliance with the compulsory education laws.

B. Truancy/Violations of Compelling Attendance

1. When a superintendent and board believe a person is not complying with the compulsory education law (N.J.S.A. 18A:38-25 et seq.) they must initiate truancy proceedings in municipal court where a parent may be found guilty of a disorderly persons offense and fined;

2. If the parents/guardians are challenged in court by the superintendent or board, the district must demonstrate, beyond a reasonable doubt that the parents are not providing a curriculum that is academically equivalent to that provided in the public school for a child of

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similar grade and attainment.

C. District Requirements for Home Schooled Students

1. Unless requested by the parents, and agreed to by the school district, the school district is not required or permitted to:

a. Test a child educated at home;b. Review the quality of instruction received at home;c. To monitor the results of home instruction.

2. When children are educated at home and are not enrolled in a school, the school district will not provide entitlements or privileges of students enrolled in the school district unless specifically provided in the federal special education laws;

3. A child educated at home shall not receive a state endorsed high school diploma from the board of education.

D. Students with Disabilities

The superintendent will consider requests for evaluation of all potentially disabled home schooled children and make determinations whether or not to conduct evaluations:

1. If the school district’s child study team (CST) determines that an evaluation is required, the procedures as outlined in N.J.A.C. 6A:14 are followed;

2. If the child is eligible for special education, the CST will determine a classification category and develop an individualized education program (IEP);

3. Home schooled children with disabilities may be provided a special education program including related services;

4. If a home schooled child with disabilities re-enrolls in the public school, the school district must implement the special education program described in the IEP. The school district will also review the IEP annually and be ready to conduct re-evaluation every three years;

5. The school district will notify the parents/guardians of a classified child who is being educated at home to offer services as required by law. The documentation of this notice will be maintained in the child’s record file;

6. Any determination by the school district CST regarding the provision of a special education program to a classified child who is being educated at home may be challenged by the parents/guardians.

E. Curricular and Extracurricular Activities

When children are educated at home and are not enrolled in a school, the school district is not required to provide any of the entitlements or privileges of students enrolled in the school district unless specifically provided in the federal special education laws:

1. Curricular activities – Home schooled children will not be permitted to participate in school curricular activities, (e.g. field trips);

2. Extracurricular activities – Home schooled children will not be permitted to participate in school extracurricular activities, (e.g. clubs and athletics);

3. Textbooks - The school district will not loan books or materials to home schooled children.

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Withdrawal from School

A. Request for Permanent Withdrawal

1. A student's parent/guardian must complete a withdrawal form from the counseling office (grades 6-12) at the time of a required withdrawal conference with the counselor;

2. The student must meet with the school counselor to discuss the reasons for the requested withdrawal;

3. The school counselor will review the student's file to determine whether the student has received the educational services to which he/she is entitled;

4. The student will be offered an exit conference with the principal, at which the student will be informed of:

a. The desirability of continuing education at some future time toward the award of a high school diploma through an adult high school program, GED program or Woodbury's Alternative Program;

b. The possibility of readmission until the student is twenty (20) years of age (or, if the student is disabled, until the end of the school year in which his/her twenty-first birthday occurs);

c. The possibility of further education in the Armed Forces of the United States and the application of such training toward a high school diploma ; and

d. The continuing availability of high school counseling services;

5. The principal will report the withdrawal and the reasons for the withdrawal to the superintendent to satisfy state reporting requirements.

B. Student's Responsibilities

1. A student who withdraws, permanently or by transfer, must:2. Return all books, uniforms, and other school property to the appropriate school staff

member, who will give a proper receipt for returned items;3. Clear out his/her locker(s) and turn in any locks owned by the district;4. Clear any obligations, for materials or fines, to the school library;5. Pay any fines due for damaged or lost textbooks; and6. Submit a properly authorized withdrawal or transfer form.

C. Records

1. The records of a student who transfers to another school will be sent to that school in accordance with board policy 5119 Transfers;

2. The permanent records of a student who withdraws from school will be retained in accordance with board policy 5125 Student Records.

Regulation: 6146- OPTION II

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Background Information

Students may apply to receive high school credits for alternative learning experiences that enable them to fulfill or exceed the expectations set forth in the New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards including the Common Core State Standards in mathematics and language arts and literacy. Woodbury City Public School District may design and/or approve educational experiences that serve as an alternative to traditional instruction and provide meaningful learning experiences which support student achievement of the Core Curriculum Content Standards including the Common Core State Standards as provided by law (N.J.A.C. 6A:8-5.1) and including Option II. Option II allows schools to provide enhanced educational opportunities for all the students through the use of multiple and diverse pathways. Option II is also referenced as a “program completion” option in Woodbury Junior Senior High School handbook and board graduation policies and regulations (file code 6146).

Procedures

A. An application shall be completed by the student/parent/guardian seeking approval for the earning of credit outside the traditional Woodbury Public School District courses offered as described in the high school course description book;

B. The application must be completed and submitted at least thirty (30) days prior to the beginning of the proposed program. All required information must be attached to this application. The application should be submitted to the Option II coordinator;

C. Option II program/courses during the high school years are available to students in grades nine (9) through twelve (12);

D. This application will be reviewed by a committee of the Woodbury Public School District faculty and administrators (director of pupil personnel services, Option II coordinator, chairperson; supervisor of curriculum and instruction; and two faculty members) and a decision will be made within twenty-one (21) days. The applicant will be notified in writing. If additional information is requested by the review committee, this information must be submitted within one (1) week;

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E. It is the student’s responsibility to maintain academic standing and enrollment in an approved Option II program. Any failure to complete an approved program may jeopardize the student’s ability to meet graduation requirements. The Woodbury Public Schools cannot guarantee placement in an equivalent Woodbury Public Schools course in the case of a student withdrawing from an approved Option II Program;

F. Woodbury Public Schools reserves the right to determine the number of credits to be awarded. Any credits earned via this Option II procedure will not be factored into grade point average calculation unless the Option II course is part of the schools approved Competency-Based Learning (CBL) experience. However, the course and actual grade earned will be noted on the student’s official transcript.

G. When considering awarding credit under Option II, Woodbury Public Schools shall consider the following:

1. Does the content of the course/program directly relate to the Core Curriculum Content Standards (CCCS) of the Woodbury Public Schools course for which the student is requesting credit?

2. (The CCCS may be found on the NJ Department of Education website at www.state.nj.us/education/)

3. Is the program taught/organized by a qualified professional?

4. What are the goals, objectives, activities, and assessment methods of this program?

5. What is the total number of hours associated with this program?

6. Are there any issues involving student safety?

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H. When applying for credit through Option II, the student/parent/guardian shall be responsible for:

1. Successfully completing the application and providing all requested information in the stated time frame;

2. Any tuition or other costs related to the program, including transportation arrangements (Note: The Board will pay the cost of an Option II on-line course of a class offered in the Woodbury High School’s Program of Studies that is taken due to the fact that a course cannot be scheduled in a traditional manner due to the small nature of our student body and limited number of sections that result; students who fall into this category can discuss options with their counselor.);

3. Maintaining attendance and academic records for the approved Option II Program;

4. Securing professional credentials of instructors/coordinators/personnel and ensuring that the program is safe and in compliance with child safety and/or labor laws (Note: according to law, all employees of the Woodbury Board of Education are fingerprinted for purposes of background checks. The program instructor, if not directly employed by the Woodbury Board of Education, may not have been required to submit to such background checks. It is the student/parent/guardian’s responsibility to check into this background information);

5. Providing the Woodbury Public Schools with all requested information including, but not limited to academic progress, course syllabus, final grade report, instructor credentials, assessment methods, links to CCCS and CCSS, and proof of attendance;

6. Understanding that the student’s attendance at Woodbury Public Schools is only required when the student is participating in a Woodbury-sponsored program or class. If a student is participating in an outside, approved Option II program and the program is not scheduled to meet, that student shall not report to the Woodbury Public Schools unless they have a regularly scheduled class at the Woodbury Public Schools;

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7. Providing a student summary report on how the identified course objectives have been met (signed off by the instructor);

8. Providing final grade reports from an approved Option II program no later than two (2) weeks after the conclusion of the program (please note that any final grade report that needs to be considered for graduation purposes must be received by thee Woodbury Public Schools no later than June 1st. Also, programs that are not finished by the end of the stated time frame will receive a failing grade notation except in cases beyond the student’s control);

I. If the Woodbury Public Schools Option II committee declines the application, the student shall be permitted to appeal this decision. The following must occur:

1. The student shall notify the principal within five (5) days of notification from the committee. Included in this written appeal to the principal must be the reason(s) why the student feels s/he should be granted permission for the Option II program;

2. The principal will gather information and notify the student of his/her decision, in writing, within five (5) days;

3. If the decision is upheld and the student still wishes to appeal s/he must submit a written appeal to the superintendent within five (5) school days of receipt of the principal’s notification. The superintendent’s decision will be communicated to the student in writing within five (5) school days.

Courses Taken Prior to High School

A. Courses taken in grades prior to a student’s enrollment into high school will be awarded high school credit as long as the courses meet the objectives of equivalent high school courses (e.g., Algebra I, Spanish I). At the time of enrollment into the high school, parents may request that the course not be included on the high school transcript. As an Option II course, the grades will be recorded on the transcript but will not be factored into the grade point average or used for class rank purposes;

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B. Though these courses will meet the New Jersey high school graduation requirements, parents are responsible to understand the implications on a child’s NCAA athletic eligibility. For NCAA, only courses taken during the 9th through 12th grade years count toward the core course requirements.

Performance or Competency Assessment

Performance or competency assessments shall not be offered for the awarding of credit in place of completing actual courses/programs unless the assessment is specifically approved in advance by the board.

Students are encouraged to utilize these regulations when completing the Option II application. Students/parents/guardians are advised to include and attach all required information in order to expedite the processing of the application.Regulation: 5113-R ATTENDANCE, ABSENCES AND EXCUSES

Notice to School of a Student's Absence

A. The parent(s) or legal guardian(s) or adult student is required to call the school office before 8:00 a.m. of the morning of the student's absence, or the student will be recorded as truant;

B. The parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of a student who attended morning session but will not attend afternoon session must call the school office or send a note before 10:00 a.m. to give notice of the student’s absence;

C. The parent(s) or legal guardian(s) or adult student who anticipates a future absence or anticipates that an absence will be prolonged must notify the Principal who will assist in the arrangement of make-up work.

Readmission to School after an Absence

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A. A student returning from an absence of any length must present to the principal or his/her designee, a written statement, dated and signed by the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) or adult student, of the reasons for the absence;

B. A note explaining a student’s absence for non-communicable illness for a period of more than three (3) school days must be accompanied by a physician’s statement of the student’s illness;

A student who has been absent by reason of having or being suspected of having a communicable disease must report to the school nurse and provide a written statement from a physician certifying that the student is free of communicable disease and well enough to retun to school.

Instruction

A. Teachers are expected to cooperate in the preparation of home assignments for students who anticipate an absence of one (1) or more school days duration. The student, parent(s) or legal guardian(s) must request such home assignments;

B. A student who anticipates an absence due to a temporary or chronic health condition may be eligible for home instruction in accordance with board policy 6173Home Instruction. The parent(s) or legal guardian(s) or adult student shall provide a written statement from a physician certifying the need for home instruction;

C. Students absent for any reason are expected to make up the work missed. In grade six (6) and above, the student shall be responsible for requesting missed assignments and any assistance required. In PK-5, the parent is responsible for making this request. Teachers will provide make-up assignments as necessary;

D. In general, students will be allowed one (1) day to make up missed work for each one (1) day of absence. Teachers shall make reasonable accommodations to extend time for students;

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E. A student who missed a test because of an absence shall be offered an opportunity to take the test or an alternate test.

Denial of Course Credit

A. The teacher will determine the credit to be awarded a student for make-up work. Where class participation is a factor in the learning process, the teacher may consider a student's absences in determining a final grade A student shall not lose credit for absences for the observance of a student's religious holiday, for a suspension from school, or a school sanctioned event. The teacher may record an incomplete grade, for a student who has not had full opportunity to make up missed work (see board policy 6154 Homework/Makeup Work);

B. A secondary student will be present for one-hundred sixty-six (166) days in order to be awarded course credit regardless of the reason for the absence. Absences for the observance of religious holidays and absences caused by a student's suspension will not be counted toward the one-hundred sixty-six (166) day total:

1. A secondary student denied course credit may attend a credit completion session to regain the denied credit, provided the student has been in attendance for one-hundred forty-five (145) days. Exceptions to this rule may be made for students who have demonstrated through completion of home assignments and/or home instruction or attendance in an approved credit completion assignment that they have mastered the proficiencies established for the course of study during prolonged absences;

2. For courses meeting for less than a full year, a student needs to be in attendance ninety percent (90%) of the days to receive full credit;

C. An elementary student will be present for one-hundred sixty (160) days in order to be awarded course credit regardless of the reason for the absence. Absences for the observance of religious holidays and absences caused by a student's suspension will not be counted toward the one-hundred sixty (160) day

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total. Exceptions to this rule may be made for students who have demonstrated through completion of home assignments and/or home instruction or attendance in an approved credit completion assignment that they have mastered the proficiencies established for the course of study during prolonged absences.

Discipline

A. Students may be denied participation in extracurricular activities and athletics (see board policies 6145 extracurricular Activities, 6145.1/6145.2 Intramural and Interscholastic Competition);

B. No student who is absent from school for observance of a religious holiday may be deprived of any award or of eligibility for or opportunity to compete for any award because of the absence.

Recording Attendance

A. Teachers must accurately record the students present, tardy, and absent each day in each session or each class. Attendance records must also record students' attendance at out-of-school curricular events such as field trips;

B. The report card will record the number of times the student was absent and tardy in each marking period;

C. A student's observance of a religious holiday will not be recorded as absent on any transcript or application or employment form.

Appeal

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A. A truant student may be suspended or expelled for truancies;

B. A student who has been retained at grade level for excessive absences may appeal that action according to the appeal process detailed below;

C. A student who has been denied course credit for excessive absences may appeal that action in accordance with the following procedures:

1. The student shall file a written appeal to the principal or his/her designee within five (5) school days of receiving notice of the action. The appeal should state the reasons for admitted absences, documentation that would reduce the number of absences, and reasons why the student should continue to be enrolled in the course and/or receive course credit;

2. The principal or his/her designee will respond in writing no later than five (5) working days after receiving the student's appeal;

3. If the student is not satisfied, he/she may submit a written request to the attendance review committee.

4. On the student's request, the principal shall convene an attendance review committee consisting of director of student personnel services, counselor, a teacher, nurse, case manager, where appropriate, and principal or his/her designee. The attendance review committee shall meet informally to hear the student's reasons for reenrollment and/or credit. The student's parent(s) or legal guardian(s) and teacher may attend the meeting;

5. The attendance review committee shall decide the appeal and inform the student in writing within seven (7) working days of the meeting. The committee may impose conditions on any reenrollment and may require the student to agree to those conditions;

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6. The student may appeal the decision of the attendance review committee to the superintendent;

7. The student may appeal the decision of superintendent to the board of education. If the board agrees with the disposition of the grievance by the attendance review committee and the superintendent, no hearing shall be conducted and the parent/guardian, the student and/or the adult student shall be notified of the decision in writing. If the board requires more information to make a decision, a hearing may be scheduled. The parent/guardian, the student and/or the adult student shall be notified of the hearing date in writing;

The student may appeal the decision of the board to the Commissioner of Education, (see board policy 5145.6 Student Grievance).

Average Daily Attendance

A. The office of student personnel services will collect attendance data from each of the schools in the district and calculate the average daily attendance rate for the district and for each school. The attendance rate shall be calculated by dividing the total number of student days present for all students by the total possible number of student days present for all students and multiplying the result by one hundred (100);

B. When the average daily attendance rate for the district or for a school does not meet the New Jersey Department of Education requirements of 90% or higher average daily attendance, district improvement activities to improve student attendance shall be developed.

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Regulation: 6146-R(1) GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Course Minimum State Credit Requirements for all Students Entering Grade 9

Minimum Woodbury Requirements

LANGUAGE ARTS LITERACY

20 credits aligned to grade nine through 12 standards

25 credits

MATHEMATICS

15 credits including algebra 1 and geometry or the content equivalent and a third year of math that builds on the concepts and skills of algebra and geometry and prepares students for college and 21st century careers

Same

SCIENCE

15 credits including at least five credits in laboratory biology/life science or the content equivalent; an additional laboratory/inquiry-based science course including chemistry, environmental science, or physics; and a third laboratory/inquiry-based science course

Same

SOCIAL STUDIES

15 credits including satisfaction of N.J.S.A. 18A:35-1 and -2; five credits in world history; and the integration of civics, economics, geography and global content in all course offerings

Same

FINANCIAL, ECONOMIC, BUSINESS, AND ENTREPRENEURIAL LITERACY

2.5 credits

Same

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SERVICE LEARNING

---

2.5 credits [72 hours -- 12 hours completed as part of Freshman Seminar; 60 hours independent study.]

HEALTH, SAFETY, AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION

3¾ credits in health, safety, and physical education during each year of enrollment, distributed as 150 minutes per week, as required by N.J.S.A. 18A:35-5, -7 and -8

Same

VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS

5 credits

Same

WORLD LANGUAGES

5 credits or student demonstration of proficiency

Same

TECHNOLOGICAL LITERACY

Consistent with the Core Curriculum Content Standards including the Common Core State Standards, integrated throughout the curriculum

Same

21ST CENTURY LIFE AND CAREERS, OR CAREER-TECHNICAL EDUCATION

5 credits

Same

ELECTIVE CREDITS

----

Sufficient to bring total credits to 130

MINIMUM ANNUAL CREDIT REQUIREMENT

----

40 credits

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TOTAL CREDITS

120 credits

130 credits

Grade Level Requirements

High school pupils shall complete the minimum number of credits required by the State Board of Education and the Woodbury Board of Education, and attained a minimum level of competence as required by State Statute, Code, and policies of the Woodbury Board of Education for placement at the sophomore, junior, and senior grade levels.

To be a sophomore:   30 credits must be earned

To be a junior:           60 credits must be earned

To be a senior:          90 credits must be earned [or a minimum of eighty (80) credits earned in conjunction with a special senior year schedule consisting of enough attempted credits to graduate – maximum fifty (50) credits.]

No more than two sequential courses can be scheduled concurrently.

Option II

The one hundred thirty (130) credit* requirement may be met in whole or in part through program completion (Option II) as follows:

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A. The board may determine and establish curricular activities or programs aimed at achieving the Core Curriculum Content Standards including the Common Core State Standards for promotion and graduation purposes;

B. Curricular activities and programs may involve in-depth experiences linked to the Core Curriculum Content Standards including the Common Core State Standards, such as interdisciplinary or theme-based programs, independent study, co-curricular or extracurricular activities, magnet programs, student exchange programs, distance learning opportunities, internships, community service, or other structured learning experiences;

C. Programs and appropriate assessments shall be planned for individuals and/or a group based on specific instructional objectives aimed at meeting or exceeding the Core Curriculum Content Standards including the Common Core State Standards;

D. The principal shall certify completion of curricular activities or programs based upon specified instructional objectives aimed at meeting or exceeding the Core Curriculum Content Standards including the Common Core State Standards;

E. Group programs based upon specific instructional objectives aimed at meeting or exceeding the Core Curriculum Content Standards including the Common Core State Standards shall be approved in the same manner as other approved courses;

F. Individual programs based upon specific instructional objectives aimed at meeting or exceeding the Core Curriculum Content Standards shall be on file in the local district and subject to review by the Commissioner or his or her designee.

G. A performance or competency assessment may be used to approve student completion of programs aimed at meeting or exceeding the Core Curriculum Content Standards including the Common Core State Standards at the secondary level, including those occurring in all or part prior to a student's high school enrollment;

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H. Successful completion of an accredited college course that assures achievement of knowledge and skills as delineated in the Core Curriculum Content Standards including the Common Core State Standards or includes learning that builds on and goes beyond the standards.

Any senior who transfers into the district after the start of the year and has demonstrated proficiency in language arts and literacy on the required graduation assessment and for students enrolled in the alternative school for a minimum of one full academic year, the language arts requirement will be reduced from twenty-five (25) to twenty (20) credits, with the omission of the English 100 requirement;

*For student enrolled in the alternative program one hundred thirty (130) credits will be required to graduate. (Lesser credits in accordance with the New Jersey Department of Education minimum requirements for graduation will be expected for any student who started the alternative program earlier than 2011.)

Additional Graduation Requirements

Additional requirements for graduation shall include the following:

A. Attendance requirements as indicated in board policy 5113 Attendance, Absences and Excuses;

B. Demonstrated proficiency on the state assessment or substitute assessment (approved for the graduation class through 2020) or Portfolio Appeal.

Students with Disabilities

A students classified with a disability may be eligible for alternate requirements for a State endorsed diploma which may include a substitute assessment or portfolio. Alternate requirements shall be detailed as

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part of the student’s individualized education program (IEP) pursuant board policy 6171.4 Special Education and to law (N.J.A.C. 6A:14-4.12). Proficiency in the alternate requirements shall be assessed to determine if the standards for graduation have been met.

Permanent records of all students who graduate from out-of-district placements shall be maintained in the district. A student classified with a disability who attends a school other than Woodbury Junior-Senior High School, shall have the choice of receiving the diploma of the school attended or Woodbury Junior-Senior High School.

Any students meeting the standards for graduation shall have the opportunity to participate in graduation exercises and related activities without regard to race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, age, sex, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, pregnancy, domestic partnership status, familial status, nationality, or disability.

Alternate Demonstration of Proficiency

The student who has not demonstrated proficiency on the required assessment for high school graduation may appeal and provide proof of proficiency on a state approved alternative assessment in addition to the Portfolio Appeal process. It is expected/required (beginning with the class of 2020) that students participate in each administration of the state assessment when administered in order for a substitute assessment or Portfolio Appeal to be used as an alternate means to satisfy the graduation testing requirement.

Attendance

Regular attendance is required for the successful completion of a course of study and graduation. Students are expected to be present in every scheduled class except as their attendance is excused in accordance with board policy 5113 Attendance, Absences and Excuses.

Remediation Services

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Student progress shall be assessed. Students deemed to be at risk of failure on any section of the state endorsed standard high school proficiency assessment shall be identified and offered services (see board policy 6171 Remedial Instruction).

Any student who does not demonstrate proficiency on an end-of-year state assessment will be given the option to audit the class in order to gain the requisite skills necessary to achieve proficiency.

Students Not Meeting Graduation Requirements

Students who do not complete the 130 credit graduation requirement but complete 120 credits or more may complete the remaining course credits by:

A. Attendance at an approved summer school;

B. Attendance at a state approved adult high school, provided student is not enrolled at Woodbury High School;

C. Attendance at Woodbury High School’s regular program with permission of the board.

Students making up the work by the successful completion of the credits shall be eligible for a Woodbury High School Diploma. This eligibility shall be extended one year from the original graduation date.

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Dear parent/guardian:

The Woodbury Alternative Education Program operates according to the guidelines and regulations outlined in this handbook. It is, therefore, imperative that parents/guardians, and students, are aware of its contents. By signing below you acknowledge that you have read and shared with your child the contents of this handbook.

__________________________________ ____________Parent / Guardian Signature Date

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