Student Handbook 09

8/14/2019 Student Handbook 09

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MCCPS Student Handbook

2008-2009


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Table of ContentsWho We Are page 2

A Community of Learners, A Great Place to Be, A Commitment to EducationReform, A Special Place for Learning & the MCCPS Mission Statement

The People of MCCPS - by position w/contact info page 4Administration, Leadership Team, Faculty & Staff, Counseling/Guidance, FoodService, Board of Trustees & Board Committees, PTO, MCCPS EducationFoundation, Volunteer Coordinators: Enrichment, Fundraising, Food Service

Life at MCCPS page 10Hours of Operation, Daily Schedule, After-school & Extra-curricular Activities,Staying after School, Extended Day, and School Cancellations/Snow Days

Academic Information page 13o Academic Program: Global Themes, Exhibition, Essential Habits, Core Subjects,

My Achievement Plans (MAPs), Critical & Analytical Thinkingo

Homework, ALEKSo CUE Reporting System & Parents Cornerthe MCCPS Report Cardo Academic Probationo MCAS Background, Purpose, Testing Schedule

General Information page 17 Constructive Communication Process (orWhat do to if you have a problem with

something thats happening at school) Attendance Policy, Absence, Late Arrival, Excessive Absences/Tardies, Early

Dismissal, Illness During the Day, Return to School after an Illness Sick Student Protocol

Dress Code Code of Conduct, Disciplinary Procedures, Student Behavior Referrals,

Suspension, Expulsion Emergency Procedures Medications

Volunteers/Visitors Getting to & from School Telephone Use, Messages, Cell Phones, Electronic Devices Celebrations/Birthdays MCCPS Website, Acceptable Use of the MCCPS Network & Internet

Massachusetts General Law Provisions page 29o Provisions Specific to Civil Rights: Title VI, Title IX, & Section 504 o Harassment Prevention Policyo Homeless Education Policy & Procedures

Charter School Info page 36Frequently Asked Questions, Myth & Realities

School Calendar page 40


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Who We AreA Community of LearnersYouve probably heard the expression it takes a village to raise a child. Well, thats thephilosophy at MCCPS, and thats why the word community is a part of our name.Students, faculty, staff, parents, and visitors begin the day together during Community

Meeting. We eat together in a communal dining room each day, and everyone goesoutside together at recess. We work together. We play together. We learn & growtogether - as partners in education. MCCPS is more than just a school; it is a nurturing,inclusive, and vibrant community that is empowered by the talents of dedicated adultswho are committed to doing what is in the best interest of the children and families weserve.

A Great Place to BeThe learning is challenging but fun, the children are respected, and parental involvementis valued and appreciated. Our community of learners includes students & families fromall over the North Shore. MCCPS provides a challenging, innovative, integrated, and

hands-on curriculum that includes art, music, foreign language, health & wellness, sports,and community service learning in a small school setting. Students enjoy the attention ofa talented and experienced teaching staff, a school nurse, counseling & support services,2 recesses a day, an internationally renowned breakfast & lunch program (Parents mayjoin us for meals.), controlled internet access, & an air-conditioned building. MCCPS iscommitted to providing public (free) education that actively meets the needs of eachstudent within the context of a dynamic and nurturing environment. At MCCPS, studentslove going to school!

A Commitment to Education Reform

Operational since 1995, MCCPS serves students in grades 4-8 in Marblehead and thesurrounding cities and towns. Charter schools are public schools of choice that are opento all students regardless of income, gender, race, religion, academic or physical ability.Charter schools are independently designed and operated, and they are committed toimproving the academic achievement of every student. Today, over a million children in40 states and Washington, D.C. attend one of more than 3,600 charter schools.Throughout their 15-year history, charter schools have stood at the center of our nation'sgrowing effort to reform and improve public education and provide greater educationaloptions to all families. MCCPS is proud to be a part of this effort.

A Special Place for Learning

MCCPS is the oldest charter school in the state of Massachusetts. Now in its 13th

year,MCCPS has been a model of innovative thinking. Because what happens here iscarefully crafted and accomplished with great purpose, nothing at MCCPS is an accident.We believe that students experience success in their education through a challengingprogram of core academic studies, the integration of learning opportunities, thereinforcement of productive attitudes toward work, community, school, friends, and self,a focus on the individual strengths and weaknesses of each student, and an institutionaland personal investment in community service learning. In addition to the learning


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gained from working on projects and participating in activities, the students learn aboutthemselves, enhance their skills and talents, and work cooperatively with other studentsand members of their community.

When you arrive, you may feel as if youre speaking a new language, but really, its all

just shorthand for the reform-minded practices that come to life at MCCPS everyday.We have Global Themes, My Achievement Plans (MAPs), Exhibitions of Student Work,essential habits, standards & strands, rubrics, ALEKS, Enrichment, the CUE Report, andmore. Each is an important part of what makes MCCPS special. These terms may soundforeign at first, but have no fear, youll be speaking like a native in no time!

Improving student achievement is imperative, but we dont teach to the test. At MCCPS,like at other schools, the students are required to learn the state standards in each subject,but what is unique at MCCPS is the way these standards are taught and assessed. Thecontent is put into context; there is a continuous focus on individual learning styles; theprocess by which student understanding is assessed is varied and authentic; and the

emphasis on personal responsibility throughout the curriculum builds character andproduces higher academic achievement. Not only are MCCPS students interested in theirlearning, but they perform well on the MCAS, too. We know that if the students areengaged, respected, challenged, and supported they will do well academically, and ourstudents performance on the MCAS tests has supported this fact.

At MCCPS, we believe that children are individuals, that everyone should be treated withdignity and respect, that global connections should be made to deepen learning, thatassessments should be authentic and include more than just test scores, and that being amember of a community means caring about others and taking responsibility for oneself.Thats why we believe in the following mission:

MCCPS Mission Statement

Recognizing that children learn best

in the context of community, our mission is

to create partnerships among community members that assist

students in reaching their highest intellectual, social, emotional,

and physical potential.


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The People of MCCPSADMINISTRATIONDr. Albert ArgenzianoInterim Managing [email protected]

781-631-0777 extension 10

Helena (Nina) Cullen-HamzehInterim Academic Director, BoardMember, & Leadership Team Facilitator,

Parent class of 2009, [email protected] extension 11

Molly WrightStudent Services Coordinator, EnrichmentCoordinator, Leadership Team Member,Personnel Committee [email protected] extension 27

Eileen PerryAssistant to the Directors,Admissions Coordinator,& MCCPS Education Foundation [email protected] extension 25

Jed OConnorSpecial Education Director, LeadershipTeam Member, & Parents AdvisoryCouncil [email protected] extension 37

Jeff BarryBusiness Manager &MCCPS Education Foundation Member,Parent Class of [email protected] extension 12

Chris FauciAssistant Special Education Director,6th Grade Inclusion Specialist, ExtendedDay Coordinator

& Board [email protected] extension 72

Matt CroninTechnology Coordinator, Leadership TeamMember & Board [email protected]

781-631-0777 extension 21


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LEADERSHIP TEAMHelena (Nina) Cullen-HamzehInterim Academic Director,Leadership Team Facilitator,Board Member, &

Parent, Class of 2011 & [email protected] extension 11

Jed OConnorSpecial Education Director, LeadershipTeam Member, &Parents Advisory Council Facilitator

[email protected] extension 37

Pam Miller4th Grade Advisory Teacher (Math /Science), Professional DevelopmentCoordinator, Leadership Team Member &Governance Committee [email protected] extension 17

Rebecca Perry8th Grade Science Teacher, Math/ScienceDepartment Chairperson, & LeadershipTeam [email protected] extension 18

Molly WrightStudent Services Coordinator, EnrichmentCoordinator, Leadership Team Member,Personnel [email protected] extension 27

Matt CroninTechnology Coordinator, Leadership TeamMember & Board [email protected] extension 21

Ryan Redmond8

thGrade Advisory Teacher (Humanities),

Humanities Department Chair, CommunityRelations Committee Member &

Leadership Team [email protected] extension 19

Tim StonecipherSchool Adjustment Counselor, &Leadership Team Member, CommunityRelations Committee Member


GRADE 4Pam MillerAdvisory Teacher (Math / Science),Professional Development Coordinator,Leadership Team Member & Governance

Committee [email protected] extension 17

Jeanne DowdellAdvisory Teacher (Humanities)[email protected] extension 15

Katie SouzaInclusion [email protected] extension 50

Rosanna LongenbakerForeign Language Instructor (4

th& 5

th) &

Teaching Assistant (4th & 5th)[email protected] extension


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GRADE 8Ryan RedmondAdvisory Teacher (Humanities),Humanities Department Chair, CommunityRelations Committee Member &

Leadership Team [email protected] extension 19

Rebecca PerryScience Teacher, Math/Science DepartmentChair, & Leadership Team [email protected]

781-631-0777 extension 18

Katie SullivanMath TeacherPersonnel [email protected] extension 24

Ida BazarovaInclusion Specialist& Grandmother, Class of [email protected] extension 45

Pam HaleyTeaching Assistant, Events Coordinator &

Parent, Class of 2011, [email protected] extension

INTEGRATED ARTS/SPECIALISTSDominque [email protected] extension 36

Mike RuthFitness Coordinator, Coach & PersonnelCommittee [email protected] extension 40

Quincy CarpenterForeign Language Instructor (6th, 7th, and8th)[email protected] extension 73

Rosanna LongenbakerForeign Language Instructor (4th & 5th) &Teaching Assistant (4th & 5th)[email protected] extension

Adria SmithMusic, & Band [email protected]

781-631-0777 extension 39

Ann ChandlerReading [email protected]

781-631-0777 extension 53

IF YOURE HAVING TROUBLE FINDING THE CONTACT INFO

FOR THE PERSON OR PROGRAM YOU NEED,

CALL EILEEN PERRY (781) 631-0777 extension 25.


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She will connect you with the right person!

HEALTH & WELLNESS and COUNSELING/GUIDANCEKellie Keenan


Mike Ruth

Fitness Coordinator, Coach & PersonnelCommittee [email protected] extension 40

Tim StonecipherAdjustment Counselor, Leadership TeamMember, & Community [email protected] extension 29

Gina HartleyAdjustment [email protected] extension 29

FOOD SERVICELaura DeSantisDirector of Nutrition [email protected] extension 14

Kim CameloKitchen [email protected] extension 14

Sarah HitchcockKitchen [email protected] extension 14

MCCPS PARENT-TEACHER ORGANIZATION Norma Ross Facilitator, Parent [email protected] Cormier Facilitator, Parent [email protected] Wolverton Facilitator, Teacher [email protected] Russell Treasurer [email protected]

MCCPS EDUCATION FOUNDATIONEmil Ronchi 781-639-3635 [email protected] Murphy 978-741-0005 [email protected]

Jeff Barry 781-631-0777 X 12 [email protected] Perry 781-631-0777 X 25 [email protected] Newhall

VOLUNTEER COORDINATORSEnrichment Molly Wright 781-631-0777 X 22Food Service Laura DeSantis 781-631-0777 X 14Fundraising Pam Haley 781-631-0777 X 70


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& Eileen Perry 781-631-0777 X 25

THE BOARD OF TRUSTEESEmil M. Ronchi, Chair

Parent, Class of 2011, &MCCPS Education Foundation Member39 Village StreetMarblehead, MA [email protected]

Cathy Vaucher, Vice-Chair

Parent, Class of 2011 & 200914 Devens RoadSwampscott, MA 01907(781) 598 [email protected]

John T. McEnaney, ClerkParent, Class of 200910 Springvale Dr.Lynn, MA 01902

[email protected]

Dr. John Sullivan, Treasurer& FinCom ChairParent, Class of 201116 Shorewood Rd.

Marblehead, MA 01945(781) 639 [email protected]

Helena (Nina) Cullen-HamzehInterim Academic Director& Parent, Class of 2011 & 200961 Blaney StreetSwampscott, MA 01907(781) 631-0777 extension [email protected]

Christopher A. Fauci6th Grade Inclusion Specialist9 Edwards StBeverly, MA 01915(978) [email protected]

Kay ODwyer,

Parent, Class of 201214 Ridge RoadMarblehead, MA 01945(781) [email protected]

Pam Wheaton Shorr

Parent, Class of 201250 Greenwood AvenueSwampscott, MA 01907781 598 [email protected]

Robert A. SousaParent, Class of 2011 & 200959 Lynnfield StreetPeabody, MA 01960(978) [email protected]

Cynthia CanavanParent, Class of 201024 Elmwood RoadMarblehead, MA 01945(781)[email protected]

Matt CroninTechnology Coordinator, Leadership TeamMember & Board [email protected] extension 21


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Life at MCCPSDAILY SCHEDULEHours of Operation 7:30 am 4:30 pm

7:30 Building Opens to Students7:30 - 7:45 Breakfast7:30 - 8:15 Band Practice (Tuesdays & Thursdays)7:45 - 8:00 Community Meeting8:00 - 8:30 Advisory8:30 - 10:00 1st Academic Block (A-block)

10:00 - 10:25 Recess / Fitness Caf Open10:30 - 12:00 2nd Academic Block (B-block)12:00 - 12:30 Lunch Caf Open12:30 - 12:55 Recess/Fitness

1:00 - 2:30 3rd Academic Block (C-block)2:30 - 3:15 Enrichment2:30 - 4:30 Team Practice3:15 Dismissal3:15 3:45 School Store (Mondays Only)3:15 - 3:30 Caf Open3:30 - 4:30 Counseling & Parental Support available by appointment3:30 6:00 Extended Day

Breakfast - A full breakfast, bagels, cereal, yogurt, fruit, juice, milk, and hotchocolate are available for purchase. Breakfast is served from 7:30 until 7:45.Parents and guests are welcome to join us for breakfast.

Community Meeting In keeping with our community philosophy, each schoolday begins with a 15-minute whole-school community meeting. This meeting is atime for announcements, celebrations, and facing the challenges of the day.Students are encouraged to share what they have learned and hear what their peersare learning. Attendance is required and guests are always welcome.

Advisory - Following Community Meeting, students report to their advisoryroom for 30 minutes. During advisory time, teachers greet students, takeattendance, and engage students in academic reflections, activities, and/or

classroom chores.

Academic Blocks - The curriculum provides students with a well-rounded andrigorous program in the areas of math, science/technology, humanities, and thearts. Students are given the opportunity to learn by doing: investigating,researching, building, presenting, discussing, and demonstrating.


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Recess/Breaks/Fitness We love to play outside! Students should come toschool prepared to go outside everyday, except in the case of rain. Researchshows that good health and fitness positively affect student achievement, and weknow that students benefit from fresh air and physical activity. Regular breakskeep students refreshed and ready to learn. The MCCPS Fitness Program includes

two

hour breaks one in the morning and one in the afternoon. During thesebreaks, students must complete at leastone lap (approximately mile) aroundthe field during each recess. Students may complete more than two laps per dayin order to achieve a higher fitness rating. There are also plenty of opportunitiesfor children to run and play on the field after completing their mandatory laps.

Lunch Delicious is the word for lunch at MCCPS, where our wonderfullytalented kitchen staff creates restaurant-quality meals for students, staff, andguests! A full lunch program, salad bar, snacks, desserts, and beverages areavailable for purchase. Students sit with peers and staff at round tables for lunch.

Parents and guests are always welcome and are encouraged to join students forlunch at any time. If youd like to order the main entre, please make reservationsvia the front office or through your childs advisory teacher prior to 9 A.M. Ifyou are unable to reserve a lunch before 9 in the morning, you are still welcometo join us, but please select a salad or something from the caf instead ofpurchasing the hot or cold entre. To operate efficiently, the kitchen preparesonly the number of meals ordered each day. Purchasing an entre without makinga reservation will leave a child without the lunch he/she has ordered. Also, pleasesign in/out at the front office when you arrive/before you leave. We lovecompany, so we look forward to seeing you often!

Enrichment Volunteers and staff share their expertise, talents, and hobbies withstudents in multi-age groups during a daily 45-minute Enrichment period. This isan opportunity for students to explore areas of interest and participate in activitiesthat enhance and enrich their regular academic day. In addition to the learninggained from the project/activity, students learn about themselves and their peers,gain skills and further develop talents, and witness adults providing a valuablecommunity service. Enrichment programs are made possible by volunteers.Their enthusiastic participation enables the Enrichment program to offer a widevariety of experiences to our students. We greatly appreciate the generouscontributions of time and energy made by these essential members of the MCCPScommunity.

Participation in Enrichment is a required part of the school day.

Students choose the Enrichments that interest them, and every effort ismade to place them in their 1st or 2nd choices.

Most students will have one Independent Study per week. An additionalday of Independent Study or a waiver excusing a student fromIndependent Study may be requested from the Advisory Teacher.

Each student must adhere to his/her Enrichment schedule.


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Enrichment Volunteer Opportunities: To learn more about teaching anenrichment course, please contact Molly Wright at 781-631-0777 X 27 [email protected].

Team Practice / Sports Teams - Currently, MCCPS is proud to cheer our teams

in track and field, cross-country, soccer (league champs!), and basketball.Please, contact Mr. Ruth for more information.

STAYING AFTER SCHOOLStudents who need to stay after school should arrange in advance to stay with a specificteacher. In cases where a teacher requests that a student stay after school for extra-help,discipline, or other reason, a call will be placed to the parent prior to the end of the day.Arrangements for transportation should be made prior to a student staying after school.To ensure student safety, no student may stay after school without the permission andsupervision of a teacher.

EXTENDED DAYMCCPS provides an extended day program most school days as well as most half-days.Extended day is not provided the day of or the day after an Exhibition, or the day before along weekend or school vacation. Only students enrolled in MCCPS are eligible toparticipate, and all MCCPS behavioral expectations will apply.THE EXTENDED DAY PROGRAM RUNS UNTIL 6:00PM.

On a Regular School Day-

The Extended Day Program will operate from 3:15 until 6:00pm. Students will have anopportunity to complete their homework and use the computer lab. The schedule will also

include some time for play, socializing, and a snack. This after school program provides asupportive, structured environment for students who wish to do some of their homework at school

or for whom after school care is needed. This program is supervised by MCCPS teachers, who

will gladly assist students with their homework, if requested. Attendance is taken each day, and abill will be sent home each month.

Cost of Extended Day on a Regular School Day:

3:15-4:30 $10.00/day 3:15 to anytime after 4:30 $20.00/day

On a Half-Day (teacher in-service day or MAP conference week)-

The Extended Day Program will operate from 12:00 until 6:00pm. The students will besupervised by MCCPS staff members. There will be some time for homework/independent study

(the computer lab will be available on an as-needed basis), and there will be some time for play

and exercise (inside or outside, depending upon the weather). Additionally, there may be someplanned activities based upon the ages and interests of the students. Students enrolled in theprogram may bring a lunch or purchase a sandwich/bagel, drink, and dessert from the Food

Service Department for $3.75 which can be deducted from their meal plan. At 3:15, students may

be picked up, walk home or stay for the rest of the Extended Day Program. There will be a chargeof $1.00 per minute for each minute that the student is left at the school after 3:30 (if that is the

arranged time for pick-up).

Cost of Extended Day on a Half- Day: (Not offered on the day of or after an

Exhibition, or the day before a long weekend/vacation)


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12noon-3:15 $25.00/day

12noon-4:30 $32.00/day

12noon-6:00 $45.00/day

Reduced rate for each participating sibling is $10.00 per day when both students are present.

The Extended Day Program will be available on the following dates:Wednesday, September 10, 2008Monday Friday, September 22-26, 2008Wednesday, October 22, 2008Wednesday, January 28, 2009Wednesday, April 29, 2009Wednesday, May 27, 2009Monday Friday, June 1-5, 2009

The Extended Day Program will not be available for full-day in-services or on the half-days before vacations/long weekends.

SCHOOL CANCELLATIONS / SNOW DAYS

MCCPS follows snow day decisions made by the Marblehead Superintendent ofSchools. If Marblehead Public Schools are closed, MCCPS will be closed as well. Therewill not be a separate announcement/listing for MCCPS. School cancellations will beannounced early in the morning on WBZ radio (AM1030) and WBZ channel 4. You canalso check online at www.marblehead.com/school.

ACADEMIC INFORMATION

MCCPS provides a rigorous academic program, including:

Global Themes that provide a means to connect the learning between gradelevels and result in high levels of student engagement and performance. Thereare three school-wide global themes per year.

Public Exhibitions of Student Workare the culminating events of eachtrimester. During this evening event, students are given the opportunity topublicly demonstrate, explain, and defend what they know and are able to do. Itis an authentic assessment and an alternative to a traditional final exam.

Exhibitions provide a means for a real world application of knowledge thatdirects the students towards more sophisticated use of the skills or knowledge.Exhibitions require students to develop and use a wide range of analytical,communication, and critical thinking skills.

Essential Habits Development, Assessment, & Reporting Work habitsessential for successful living are encouraged, assessed, and reported in order toassist students in becoming life-long learners and effective citizens. The habits


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we help them to develop are:Responsible & Reliable, Persistent & Self-directed,Reflective & Inquisitive, Organized & Attentive to Detail, Respectful & Honest,

Working Collaboratively. Teachers formally report student essential habitperformance at the conclusion of each trimester.

Academic Program Our coursework provides a project-based integratedapproach to teaching students the humanities, math, science, foreign language,art, music, health, and community service learning.

My Achievement Plans (MAPs) are individual learning plans developedcollaboratively by the student, teacher(s), and parent/guardian to reflect thelearning goal(s) of the student and establish the responsibilities of the student,teacher(s), and parent/guardian in achieving the goals. Students regularly writereflections to indicate and document progress toward achieving their goals. Twoformal conferences per year are reserved to discuss progress and update goals.

Critical and Analytical Thinking challenge students to think beyond thecontent and apply their knowledge to new and different situations. They grow tounderstand and appreciate the purpose and benefits of thinking critically.Students regularly participate in learning reflection activities where they respondto the following questions: What did you learn? How did you learn it? Why is itimportant?

HOMEWORKHomework is assigned regularly to support academic achievement. To facilitatehomework completion and support home/school communication, all students areprovided with a school assignment book. Daily homework assignments and brief notes

between parents and teachers are recorded in the assignment book. Homework is givendaily at the discretion of the individual teachers and students are expected to keep anaccurate record of all assignments. All homework should be completed in a neat andtimely fashion. It is each students responsibility to complete all homework missed due toabsence.

ALEKSALEKS(Assessment and LEarning in Knowledge Spaces) is a web-based, artificiallyintelligent assessment and learning system. ALEKS uses adaptive questioning to quicklyand accurately determine exactly what a student knows and doesn't know. ALEKS theninstructs the student on the topics he/she is most ready to learn. As a student works,

ALEKS periodically reassesses the student to ensure that topics learned are also retained.The program is available 24/7, is very complete in the topics covered, and has onlylimited multiple-choice questions. Students are required to complete a minimum numberof minutes per week on ALEKS as assigned by their math teacher.

CUE REPORT & PARENTS CORNER the MCCPS Report CardThe CUE (Communicating Understanding through Evidence) is designed to keep parentsand students up-to-date regarding student progress and performance. The CUE is a


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comprehensive, web-based reporting system that provides on-going, detailed, and timelyassessment of student work. Students and parents can keep track of assignments, canknow the results of tests as soon as teachers post them to their grade books, and canidentify academic areas that need extra attention. When checked regularly, the CUE canbe a very effective tool for students and parents.

As a public school, MCCPS must teach the content and skills that are described in theMassachusetts Curriculum Frameworks. In theFrameworks, each subject is divided intostrands. It is our goal that students will demonstrate a proficient level of understanding ineach strand in each subject by the end of the year. All student work is viewed asevidence toward this goal. At the end of each trimester, the students work will beevaluated. The grades will not be averaged, but instead the students demonstrated levelof understanding will be determined, the following descriptors will be used:

o Advanced: The students work has demonstrated a level of understandingthat exceeds the grade level standards at this time.

o Proficient: The students work has demonstrated a level of understandingthat meets the grade level standard at this time.

o Developing: The students work has demonstrated a partial understandingof the grade level standards at this time.

o Emerging: The students work has demonstrated a minimal understandingof the grade level standards at this time.

o Not Yet Assessed: Sufficient evidence does not exist to determine ademonstrated level of understanding, because the content and skills in thestrand have not yet been presented or, the student did not complete therequired work, and thus did not yet demonstrate his/her understanding.

Another important feature of the CUE is the separate reporting of the students academicachievement and his/her work habits. Both are important, but they must be understoodseparately to best help the student reach his/her full potential. The following habits willbe assessed each trimester:

o Responsible & Reliableo Persistent & Self-directedo Reflective & Inquisitiveo

Organized & Attentive to Detail

o Respectful & Honesto Working Collaboratively

The information in the CUE is password protected. Please, contact the subject matterteacher with questions about the work or grades, and contact Matt Cronin, TechnologyCoordinator, regarding your login or password needs.


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GENERAL INFORMATION

CONSTRUCTIVE COMMUNICATION PROCESS(or What do to if you have a problem with something thats happening at school)

The MCCPS administrators, faculty, and staff believe that effective communicationcontributes to increased student achievement. All MCCPS administrators, faculty, andstaff maintain an open-door policy with regards to sharing information, answeringquestions, and discussing issues.

Goal: The goal of the Constructive Communication Process is to ensure open, honest,respectful, and constructive communication for all MCCPS stakeholders.

MCCPS administrators, faculty, and staff welcome your questions and comments; pleasecommunicate directly and often.

MCCPS administrators, faculty, and staff are generally available immediately before andafter school to answer questions or engage in informal conversations. Phone calls, emails,and comments/questions in a students MCCPS assignment book are also welcome.Parents, administrators, faculty, and/or staff members who are concerned with an issuethat cannot be resolved in a brief informal conversation are welcomed and encouraged toschedule a meeting to discuss steps towards resolution. In order to ensure an orderly andefficient course of resolving each issue, please follow the process outlined below:

NOTE: All meetings and conversations at this level are documented in a ConferenceReport, copies of which are sent to the meetings participants and the administration fortheir review and comment. All written comments become part of a documented record of

the issue under consideration. Step 1) Schedule a meeting to speak directly with the person or persons closest to

the issue. Meeting participants are encouraged (and MCCPS personnel arerequired) to invite a third party to take notes during the meeting. Follow-upmeetings may be scheduled to facilitate timely resolution of issues.

Step 2) If, after following step 1, an issue remains unresolved, any meetingparticipant is encouraged to schedule a meeting with the person or persons closestto the issue and the Student Services Coordinator. At this stage, follow-upmeetings should be scheduled through Student Services Coordinator.

Step 3) If, after following steps 1-2, an issue remains unresolved, any meetingparticipant is encouraged to schedule a meeting with the person or persons closest

to the issue, the Student Services Coordinator, and the Interim Academic Director.At this stage, follow-up meetings should be scheduled through Mrs. Eileen Perrythe Assistant to the Directors.

Step 4) If, after following steps 1-3, an issue remains unresolved, any meetingparticipant is encouraged to request mediation. All requests for mediation mustbe in writing and directed to the Interim Academic Director. The school willschedule a mediation session at the Marblehead Counseling Center with allrelevant parties.


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Step 5) If, after following steps 1-4, an issue remains unresolved, a letter ofappeal should be sent to the Chair of the MCCPS Board of Trustees. The BoardChair will review all related documentation and respond in writing with asummary judgment of his/her findings.

NOTE: In order to ensure effective issue resolution at MCCPS, any communication of anunresolved issue received by a member of the MCCPS Board of Trustees is forwarded tothe Interim Academic Director who will facilitate the process of issue resolutionexplained above. A report of each issue that results in a Conference Report will be copiedto the Interim Academic Director to track the progress of each inquiry to its satisfactoryresolution. A report of issues and resolution rates will be included in the monthly Stateof the School report given by the Interim Academic Director to the Board of Trustees.

ATTENDANCE POLICYMassachusetts State law requires that students between the ages of 6 and 16 years attendschool, and we have been charged by the state to ensure that this occurs. So, attendance

at school is mandatory. Students are required to be in school for all scheduled schooldays and Exhibition programs unless they are sick or they have permission from theschool to be absent.

Absence

o If a student is going to be absent, a parent/guardian should call the school(781- 631-0777) prior to8:00 A.M.

o A note explaining the absence should be presented to the AdvisoryTeacher upon returning to school. All notes must include the date of andreason for the absence.

o Absences will be excused for illness, religious holidays, a death in the

family, or a funeral.o Absences of 3 consecutive days require a note from a physician addressing

each of the days absent, stating the specific illness, and confirming that thestudent was too sick to attend school, but is well enough to return.

o Planned absences should be reported in writing to the Advisory Teacherprior to the absence. Whenever possible, appointments should bescheduled for after school.

o Absences due to family vacations that occur while school is in sessionmust be considered unexcused absences. MCCPS encourages parents toplan family vacations when school is not in session, however we recognizethat parents do not always have this option. The Advisory Teacher should

be notified in writing in advance of the dates of the vacation. School workwill not be provided in advance of a vacation. The student may requestthe work and extra help when he/she returns.

o All work missed due to absence must be completed. Due dates will bedetermined by the teacher(s).


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Late Arrival/Tardyo Community Meeting is an important part of the day, and students are

expected to be seated in the Community Room by 7:45AM.o If a student is going to be tardy, the school should be called prior to

8:00AM (631-0777) by a parent/guardian.o

A student arriving between 7:45 and 8:00 must sign in at the front deskand then go to the Community Room.o A student arriving after 8:00 A.M. should be accompanied by a

parent/guardian who will sign in the student at the front desk, or thestudent must present a note from his/her parent/guardian stating the date,arrival time, and reason for the tardiness.

o A parent/guardian will be notified if a student is chronically late.o Students are responsible for completing all work missed due to tardiness.o A student whose late arrival is unexcused will assist with the clean-up

crew after lunch on the day he/she was tardy.

Excessive Absence and/or Tardinesso If a student is excessively absent (10 or more days within one term) or

tardy (3 or more days within one week), the school may contact theparent/guardian to request an explanation.

If no written documentation of illness is received, or if the studentcontinues to be absent/tardy, a formal letter will be sent to theparent indicating the schools concern. This letter may request aphysicians note and/or schedule a conference with the parents andchild.

If absences/tardiness continue after the formal letter andconference, the school may be forced to contact the local truancyofficer for assistance and/or require that the student repeat theschool year.

Early Dismissal

o If a student needs to be dismissed early from school, a note should bebrought to school. The note should explain the reason for the earlydismissal and how the student will be getting home.

o A student being dismissed early must be signed out by a parent/guardian atthe front desk. Students can not be released early without directcommunication from the parent/guardian.

o Students are responsible for completing all work missed due to earlydismissal.

Illness During the Day

If a student becomes ill while at school, a parent/guardian will be notified. Thestudent will be cared for in the health office until he/she is picked up by aparent/guardian. A student who is being dismissed due to illness must be signedout by a parent/guardian at the front desk.


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SICK STUDENT PROTOCOLIf a student is observed to be ill or complains of illness, the student will be sent to theHealth Office for evaluation. The students temperature will be taken, and upon furtherevaluation, the student may be dismissed if any or all of the following occur:

o Temperature is elevated.

o

The student is vomiting.o The student continues to complain of illness after an appropriate period of

rest in the Health Office.o Consultation and/or evaluation by the school nurse determines

consideration for dismissal.o If, upon contact with the parent, it is felt to be in the best interest of the

student to be dismissed.

Changes/Concerns: If a student is noted to have any changes in behavior, functioning,gait, color, or has expresses any signs or symptoms of illness or discomfort, the schoolnurse should be consulted. Should a faculty/staff member become concerned about thehealth of a student or have any concerns about safety, the school nurse should beconsulted for evaluation of the student.

Exclusion from School Due to Illness: Students with the following symptoms should beexcluded from school until the illness has resolved and/or until a physician determinesthat the student may return to school:Conjunctivitis, Impetigo, Diarrhea*, Vomiting*, Fever*, Undiagnosed rash**, Severeupper respiratory infection, Sore throat, Earache

*Students should be symptom free for 24 hours before returning to school**A rash can be an indication of many things, frequently of illness that is contagious.Therefore, a student will be excluded from school until a physician determines that the

student is not contagious and may return to school. If a student is dismissed from schooldue to a rash, the student must present a note from the physician certifying that thestudent may return to school.Returning To School Following An Illness: A doctors note is required upon return toschool following: major surgery, fracture, severe illness or hospitalization (pneumonia,mononucleosis, bronchitis, asthma, etc). The note should state any limitations oraccommodations necessary for class attendance, gym and recess and a plan of care tomeet the students needs while in school. The date for resumption of normal activityshould also be clearly stated.

Questions: Please feel free to contact the school nurse, Mrs. Kellie Keenan, with any

questions regarding the return to school following illness, injury, or hospitalizationStudents are encouraged to return to school as soon as they are physically able.

DRESS CODEIn general, a students appearance should be neat and clean and should reflect theimportant educational work pursued at MCCPS. Please, label coats, sweatshirts, etc.

No items of clothing may have offensive/vulgar images or language, references tosex, alcohol, drugs, or abuse of any kind.


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Students should dress for the weather. They will go outside for AM/PM Breakseveryday. They will go out when its hot, when its cold, and when it snows! Weknow that fresh air and exercise are very important to academic success, so onlyrain will keep us inside during breaks.

Ripped and torn items are not acceptable.

Collared shirts are encouraged, but not required. Shirts may be sleeveless, buttank tops, spaghetti straps, and strapless tops are not acceptable. Short-shorts & micro-minis are discouraged. Sneakers and comfortable clothing must be worn during Fitness. Flip-Flops and

dresses are not appropriate for Fitness Class.

Heelys are not allowed, and cleats may be worn only when required for teampractice. Flip-flops should not be worn during muddy weather.

Hats may be worn outside during AM/PM Breaks and during Outdoor Fitness, butthey may not be worn in the school building.

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

Student behavior should always reflect a seriousness of purpose and a cooperativeattitude both in and out of the classroom. MCCPS enjoys an atmosphere of trust and highbehavioral expectations, because everyone makes every effort to do their best everyday.The culture of respect at MCCPS is carefully nurtured, and the students at MCCPSrespond well to this expectation.

Students are expected to treat all teachers/staff, classmates, all communitymembers, and volunteers with respect to at all times. Disrespectful words,actions, or attitudes will not be tolerated at MCCPS.

Staff members are continually looking for opportunities to recognize positivebehaviors. Public presentation of a Commendation is one way that staff can

encourage and acknowledge exceptional student behavior. Inappropriate behaviors will be redirected and/or documented via a Student

Behavior Referral.

RULE 230All MCCPS students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with thegoals of the school, and work in cooperation with all members of the MCCPS communityto create a positive learning environment. Students can check their compliance withRule 230 by asking themselves, If all 230 students were doing what Im doing now,would that be appropriate? If the answer to this question is yes, the students behavioris probably acceptable. If the answer to the question is no, the student should redirect

his/her behavior.

HANDS-OFF POLICYStudents are expected to keep their hands to themselves. The touching of other students(even in play or affection) is prohibited.

ENRICHMENT - BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS


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All school rules apply at all times during Enrichment classes/activities. Students areexpected to arrive to their Enrichment activities on time, and they must treat theEnrichment instructors with respect. A student may be removed from an Enrichmentactivity for the remainder of the class/term if his/her behavior is unacceptable. StudentBehavioral Referrals may be issued during Enrichment.

DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES- Student Behavior Referrals, Suspension, ExpulsionAt MCCPS, we recognize that sometimes kids make mistakes. That doesnt make thembad kids, it just makes them kids. So, the adults at MCCPS will make every effort to helpthem learn from their mistakes and make better choices in the future. Each studentsbehavior file will remain confidential. This file will not be included in the studentspermanent record, and it will be destroyed after the student withdraws or graduates fromthe school. If a student or his/her parent wants to view this file, Mrs. Eileen Perry shouldbe contacted to arrange an appointment.

STUDENT BEHAVIOR REFERRALSStudent Behavior Referralswill be issued to students who do not follow the school rules,so that they and their parent/guardian will be informed of the inappropriate behavior andthe steps that have been taken by the school to correct/redirect the behavior. A studentwho earns a Student Behavioral Referral will be required to:

o Discuss the issue with his/her parent/guardian.o Reflect upon his/her behavior by answering 3 questions:

- What did you?- What should you have done instead?- Were you treated fairly?

o Obtain a parents/guardians signature on the SBR.

o

Return the completed SBR to the teacher who issued it.o Make every effort to make better choices in the future.

A Student Behavioral Referral may be issued for any inappropriate behavior, includingbut not limited to:

Failure to follow instructions Disrespectful behavior

Disruptive behavior Inappropriate interaction physical Inappropriate interaction verbal Destruction of student property

Destruction of school property

Behaviors that show a gross neglect for the rules of the school may necessitateimmediate and serious disciplinary action. Sanctions for the following behaviors mayinclude suspension for one or more days, work service, or expulsion:

Flagrant disrespect shown to a teacher, staff member, administrator, volunteer, orfellow student

Bullying


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Harassment - verbal, physical, sexual Truancy Fighting Theft (of school or student property) Possession of a controlled substance (tobacco, drugs, alcohol)

Possession of a weapon Vandalism

SUSPENSIONA student may be suspended because he/she has earned 5, 10, or 15 Student BehaviorReferrals. A student may also be suspended immediately if his/her behavior reflectsgross neglect for the schools rules. Any student who is suspended for any reason mustparticipate in a conference with his/her parent/guardian, Advisory Teacher, and anadministrator before returning to school. Most suspensions are served out of school,however in some cases, an in-house suspension will be served instead. Students arerequired to complete all school work missed due to suspension. Students who are

suspended will be excluded from all school activities (including but not limited to:dances, ski trips, athletic events, exhibitions and field trips) until the reentry meeting hasoccurred.

A student whose behavior results in 5 Student Behavioral Referrals will berequired to serve a one-day suspension as scheduled by the Interim AcademicDirector or her designee.

A student whose behavior results in 10 Student Behavioral Referrals will berequired to serve a two-day suspension as scheduled by the Interim AcademicDirector or her designee.

A student whose behavior results in 15 Student Behavioral Referrals will berequired to serve a three-day suspension as scheduled by the Interim Academic

Director or her designee. At this point, a discussion regarding the placement ofthe student in an alternative program will take place.

EXPULSIONA student who assaults, verbally, physically, or sexually, a member of the school staff onschool premises or at a school sponsored or school related event may be subject toexpulsion from the school.

SPECIAL EDUCATION & DISCIPLINESpecial education students at MCCPS are subject to all Rules/Procedures and privileges as

stated in the Student/Parent handbook. The MCCPS starting point is trusting that studentswill do the right thing. Consistent staff presence, emphasis on Rule 230 (A studenthim/herself the question, If all 230 students were doing what Im doing, would it bealright?), and the use of positive communication conversations are tools used to engagestudents in resolving their issues, following behavioral expectations, and finding alternativeways to act appropriately in getting their needs met.


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The most common method of resolving behavioral concerns is through the referralsystem that engages students, parents, teachers, and the Student Services Coordinatoror in discussions. Proactively, individual students with emerging patterns of inappropriatebehavior who may not be receiving referrals are discussed at grade level Team meetings.The students Advisory teacher informs parents and their input is sought, including meeting

with the Team. Behavior plans and strategies to change identified behaviors are oftendeveloped by Teams working with the MCCPS School Adjustment Counselor. TheInclusion Specialist at each grade level has an important role to play when there is growingconcern about a special education student. The main role of the Inclusion Specialist ismonitoring the plan to ensure its implementation, maintaining interpersonal connectionswith the student throughout the school day, and communicating regularly with theparent/guardian for updates and further strategizing.

Special education students follow the same procedures for suspensions as their regulareducation peers. Were a student to reach the 7th day of suspension, a Functional BehaviorAssessment will be conducted. Starting with the 10

thday of suspension and for each

subsequent suspension, whether in-house or out-of-school, a Manifestation Determinationmeeting is held. When there is a determination that the behavior is caused by thedisability, the student will not be subject to expulsion. In such instances, an appropriateplan will be developed to assist the student and support his/her continued education.

EMERGENCY PROCEDURESThe staff at MCCPS takes the safety of your children very seriously. Our building isequipped with a security camera at the front door and locks on all doors. Students aresupervised at all times when out on the playing field. All staff members have beentrained in emergency response procedures. In the event of a school emergency,parents/guardians will be contacted as soon as possible with information and/or

instructions.

MEDICATIONSAll medication MUSTbe administered by the school nurse or a designated member ofthe schools administration or staff. Students are not permitted to keep anymedication with them without the permission of the schools nurse.


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VOLUNTEERS/VISITORSAs a community school, committed to creating partnerships among communitymembers that assist students in reaching their highest intellectual, social, emotional, andphysical potential, MCCPS offers many volunteer opportunities that serve our studentsand school. All community members are welcomed and encouraged to invest their time,

energy, and expertise to help our students achieve! To learn about volunteeropportunities at the school, please contact:Molly Wright, Student Services Coordinator about Enrichment opportunities

Laura DeSantis, Director of Nutrition Services about food service volunteersPam Haley, Events Coordinator about fundraising eventsEileen Perry, Assistant to the Directors about fundraising Events

Visitors are always welcome at MCCPS. Please check in at the front desk when youarrive/depart.

GETTING TO & FROM SCHOOL

Drop Off/Pick Up All pedestrians should use the sidewalk and the crosswalk on Lime Street when

going to and from the school.

Cars should not pull up to the front stairs. Drivers should use the turn-about for drop-off/pick-up only. Pull into the

turnabout as far as you can without re-entering Lime Street. Tell yourchild/carpool to enter/exit the car as quickly as possible, so that you can move outof the turn-about and allow the next group of cars to move up.

Cars should not park in or block the turn-about at any time. If your child/carpoolrequires more than a moment for drop-off/pick-up, please park in the lot to allowenough time to unload/load. After school, if youre in the turn-about, but your

child is not visible and moving toward your car, please go around the turn-aboutagain (or pull into the lot and park) to allow the traffic to continue to move.

Public Transit BusesThe MBTA bus runs every 30 minutes with the first bus after dismissal arriving at theGreen Street stop around 3:40 pm. Students traveling to and from school using theMBTA bus can request a Charlie card, so they will pay a reduced rate. Students should beaware that riding the MBTA bus is a privilege, so students are expected to conductthemselves accordingly. Consequences for inappropriate behavior on the bus may resultin the loss of this riding privilege.

Bicycles/Skateboards/Rollerblades Students who ride a bike/skateboard/ rollerblades to school are required to wear ahelmet/protective gear for their safety. The school provides a bike rack, and studentsshould use a lock, as the school is not responsible for the loss of bikes or otherequipment. Bicycles, skateboards, and rollerblades may be ridden on school propertyonly while traveling to and from home. They may not be used during school hours.

TELEPHONE USE/MESSAGES/CELL PHONES


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To facilitate home/school communication, all faculty and staff have email and voicemailaccounts. Email addresses are listed in this handbook and on the schools website.Voicemail accounts can be reached by calling the schools main number (781-631-0777).Extension numbers are available in this handbook in the People of MCCPS section.

Using the Schools Phone: There is a phone in every classroom. In the event of

an emergency, students will be permitted to use the phone. However,arrangements for after school activities/play dates should be made prior to school. Phone Messages: To protect instructional time from disruptions, phone messages

will be delivered to students during break times. Cell Phones: Please ensure that your childs phone is labeled with his/her name.

Although MCCPS understands the need for students to carry cell phones, it isimportant that parents and students are aware that cell phones may not be usedwithout teacher permission for any reason during the school day (includinglistening to music, taking pictures, etc.). Students cell phones must be turned offduring the day and should be left in the students backpacks. If a student useshis/her cell phone without permission, it will be confiscated, and a Student

Behavior Referral will be issued.

ELECTRONIC MUSIC/GAMING DEVICESGame boys, cd-players, iPods, and other electronic music/gaming devices may be usedbefore/after school and during recess. Music/gaming devices may not be used at anyother time unless teacher permission has been granted. If a student uses his/hermusic/gaming device without permission, it will be confiscated, and a Student BehaviorReferral will be issued. The students name should be visible on his/her device.

BIRTHDAYS/CELEBRATIONSBecause it is difficult to ensure the safety of students with food allergies, food

intolerances, or dietary restrictions, please check with your childs Advisory Teacher orthe school nurse before bringing treats to school. Non-food celebrations or prepackagedfoods are encouraged.

WEBSITEThe MCCPS website is an excellent source of information past, present, and future.We hope that you will visit http://marbleheadcharter.org frequently. There is a calendarof events. You can see the months menu and purchase breakfast/lunch tickets. Theclassroom pages are a combination of delightful memories and useful documents. Thereare many historical and governance pages. You can access the SchoolPop site to donateto the school just by doing your regular online shopping. And, best of all, youll learn

even more about our wonderful school and the extraordinary accomplishments of ourtalented students and staff.

Student work and photos will be posted on our website (and in ads/articles about theschool) unless you inform us in writing that you do not want your childs work or picture

included. If applicable, please notify Matt Cronin, Technology Coordinator.


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DO create, use, and maintain a password that was created according toMCCPS guidelines. This password is to be used to access the MCCPSNetwork and any resources that reside within the network and requirepassword access.

DO take precautions to maintain the secrecy of their password so that other

users will not be able to utilize that password for malicious purposes. MCCPSusers are responsible for all activity under their accounts DO change their password immediately if a user suspects that someone has

discovered their password. Additionally, users should notify their teacher ifthey suspect their password has been discovered or used by another person.

Unacceptable Use

It is not acceptable for users to use the MCCPS network for any of the followingactivities:

interfering with the normal and proper operation of the MCCPS Network orthe Internet

adversely affecting the ability of others to use MCCPS Network, equipment,or services, including, but not limited to, placing a computer virus on anycomputer system, including the MCCPS system

conducting themselves in ways that are harmful or deliberately offensive toothers

gaining unauthorized access to any computer or telecommunicationsnetworks, including the MCCPS network

giving their passwords to another user, permitting other individual to makeuse of any of their passwords to access account privileges on the MCCPSNetwork, or making an effort to learn anyone elses password

attempting to hide their identity or impersonate anyone else, including logging

in through another person's account or attempting to access another user'spassword or files

vandalizing, destroying data, invading the privacy of another's account, orposting anonymous inflammatory messages

accessing, sending or posting materials or communications that are damaging to another's reputation; abusive; obscene; sexually oriented; threatening; defamatory, libelous, or hate speech material concerning a person

or group of people contrary to MCCPS's policy on harassment; harassing; or illegal.

using any form of instant messaging including, but not limited to, AOL InstantMessenger, Yahoo Instant Messenger, and ICQ,

attempting to bypass, circumvent, or disable any MCCPS firewalls, internetfilters, or other software and devices the school uses to monitor and manageinternet traffic on the MCCPS Network


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engaging in any non-MCCPS commercial or fundraising purpose intercepting communications intended for other persons furthering any illegal act, including identity theft or infringement on any

intellectual property rights

downloading, uploading, storing or distributing any files, software, or other

material that is not specifically related to an MCCPS educational project downloading, uploading, storing or distributing any illegal files, software, or

other material downloading, uploading, storing or distributing any files, software, or other

material in violation of federal copyright laws

Any attempts to use the network in an unacceptable manner will result in the revocationof Internet access privileges and may result in additional consequences as determined bythe Technology Coordinator and/or the Interim Academic Director.

No Expectation of Privacy

It should be understood that users of the MCCPS Network have no reasonableexpectation of privacy (with respect to access by the system administrators or theirdesignee) to any materials transferred through or stored within the MCCPS Network.Further, in order to prevent any abuse of the MCCPS Network or effectively maintainand repair the system, MCCPS system administrators reserve the authority to inspect anyand all materials transferred through or stored within the MCCPS Network.

It should also be understood that certain materials accessible through the Internet may beobjectionable and that is each students responsibility to avoid deliberately accessingobjectionable material at any time.

Personal Computers and Devices

Provided students adhere to all the specific conditions below, they will be permitted touse their personally owned computers or other devices. In order to use personal devices,

students will: agree to abide by all elements of this Acceptable Use Policy

not upload or transmit any files from their computer to the MCCPS Networkwith the exception of files associated with an MCCPS assignment or project.

understand that there may be limited access to MCCPS Network resourcessuch as printers and user home directories.

acknowledge that MCCPS is not responsible for any damages incurred,including, but not limited to loss of data or damage to personal property usedto access MCCPS resources.

Internet EtiquetteTeachers and students are expected to follow accepted rules of network etiquette. Thesewill include (but are not limited to) the following:

Respect time in a manner that would not infringe upon others' attempts to accessinformation.

Be polite in your questions and responses (No use of inappropriate language).

NEVER reveal your (or anyones) personal address or phone number


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Consequences for Violating the Acceptable Use Policy

Students may be disciplined in accordance with the MCCPS School Discipline Policy forany violation of this Acceptable Use Policy. MCCPS teachers and administrators willconsider the seriousness of the violation when determining what disciplinary action totake.

Any intentional malicious activity which causes damage to any MCCPS computers or theMCCPS Network will result in serious disciplinary action which may include financialresponsibility for repair.

MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL LAW PROVISIONSGeneral Provisions1. Charter Schools shall be open to all students, on a space available basis, and shall notdiscriminate on the basis of race, color, nation origin, creed, sex, ethnicity, sexual

orientation, mental or physical disability, age, ancestry, athletic performance, specialneeds, proficiency in English language, or academic achievement.

2. The power of the Board of Trustees, or of any teacher, administrator, other employee,or volunteer to maintain discipline upon school property shall not include the right toinflict corporal punishment upon any student.

3. Any student who is found on school premises or at a school sponsored activity inpossession of a weapon or a controlled substance may be subject to expulsion from theschool.

4. Any student who assaults, verbally, physically, or sexually, a member of the schoolstaff on school premises or at a school sponsored or school related event may be subjectto expulsion from the school.

5. Any student who has been expelled pursuant to these provisions shall have the right ofappeal to the Board of Trustees and shall have ten (10) days from the date of theexpulsion in which to notify the Board of his/her appeal. Further, any student requestingan appeal has the right to counsel at a hearing before the Board of Trustees.

Provisions Specific to Civil Rights

It is the role of the Marblehead Community Charter Public School to provide a safe andsecure learning environment for all its students without distinction based on race,religion, ethnicity, disability, gender, or sexual orientation. Discrimination, sexual orbias-motivated harassment, and violations of civil rights disrupt the educational processand will not be tolerated.


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Harassment Prevention Policy

Introduction

It is the goal of the Marblehead Community Charter Public School (MCCPS) to provideits students and faculty with a school environment free and safe from sexual harassment.

MCCPS will not tolerate the conduct that is described in this policy, considers allallegations of sexual harassment serious, and will respond to complaints promptlyfollowing the included procedures. For allegations that are proven to be true, MCCPSwill take the necessary steps to correct and eliminate the conduct, using disciplinaryactions where appropriate. Retaliation in any form against any person who has filed acomplaint is also considered unlawful and will not be tolerated.

While this policy describes what sexual harassment is and the procedures andconsequences of such conduct, it is not intended to limit any remedial action. Conductwithin or part of the school environment that is considered unacceptable, regardless if theconduct satisfies the definition of sexual harassment, will be investigated.

Definitions

Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, prohibits sexual harassment ineducation. Sexual Harassment is defined by the Massachusetts General Law as anysexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a

sexual nature when:(i) submission to or rejection of such advances, requests, or conduct is made

explicitly or implicitly as a provision of employment, benefits, privileges,or as a basis for the evaluation of academic achievement or,

(ii) such advances, requests, or conduct have the purpose or effect ofunreasonable interference within an individuals education by creating an

intimidating, hostile, humiliating or sexually offensive educationalenvironment.

In the school, sexual harassment can cover a wide range of behaviors and may encompasssexually oriented behavior that makes the school environment hostile, offensive,intimidating, or humiliating.

Examples of conduct that, if considered unwelcome, may constitute sexual harassmentinclude but are not limited to:

unwelcome sexual advances either physical or emotional sexual jokes

comments, verbal or written, about an individuals body comments, verbal or written, about an individuals sexual activity/prowess display of sexually suggestive objects, pictures, cartoons whistling, gesturing, insulting pulling at someones clothing forcing to kiss someone attempted rape and rape


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Complaints

A Sexual Harassment Report must be filed in any case involving student, faculty, orvolunteer that occurs while on school grounds. Reports should be filed with the SexualHarassment Coordinator and will be kept confidential within the confines of the law.Sexual Harassment Coordinators:

Molly Wright Jed OConnorStudent Service Coordinator Special Education Director781.631.0777 ext. 27 781.631.0777 ext. [email protected] [email protected]

Investigation

Once reported, an evaluation involving separate conversations with the involved partieswill be conducted to gather facts and assess the risk of the situation. Assessment of theinformation will include these steps:

1. maintenance of complete recordsname of complainant

date(s) of complaintkinds of inquiries undertakendate(s) of investigative stepsdate(s) and documentation of resolutionsconfirmations/notices of outcomes to complainantconfirmations/notices of further procedural rights to complainantinformation on implementation or monitoring of resolution(s)

2. Notification to appropriate authorities regarding complaint(s)3. Retention of records with secure and limited access

When the investigation is complete MCCPS will, to the extent appropriate, inform the

person filing the complaint and the person alleged to have committed the conduct of theresults of the investigation.

If it is determined that inappropriate conduct has occurred, MCCPS will act promptly toeliminate the behavior and impose necessary disciplinary action.

Disciplinary ActionIf it is determined that an inappropriate action has been committed, MCCPS will takeaction appropriate to the situation. Such action may range from referral of counseling tosuspension or expulsion from school, or termination of employment as well as otherforms of disciplinary action deemed appropriate and in conjunction with

M.G.L. c.151B, ss.2 & 3.

Legal References Other Reference

M.G.L. c.151B, ss. 2&3 Essex County District Attorneys OfficeMCAD policy 96-2Title IX

Title VII, Civil Rights Act of 1964


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are living in motels, hotels, or camping grounds due to the lack of alternativeadequate accommodations

are living in emergency shelters are abandoned in hospitals; or are awaiting foster care placement

have a nighttime residence that is a public or private place not designed for or

ordinarily used as a regular sleeping accommodation for human beings are living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing,

bus or train stations, or similar settings runaway children or children who are abandoned

Homeless status is determined in cooperation with parents or in the case ofunaccompanied youth the local educational agency liaison.

Procedure

School Selection

For a student determined to be homeless who is enrolled in MCCPS, the school shall,according to the child's best interest, continue the child's or youth's education at MCCPSfor the duration of homelessness, in any case in which a family becomes homelessbetween academic years or during an academic year, or for the duration of the academicyear, if the child or youth becomes permanently housed during an academic year

In determining the best interests of the child or youth to the extent feasible the child oryouth will continue to attend MCCPS, except when doing so is contrary to the wishes ofthe child's or youth's parent or guardian, for the duration of homelessness.

Comparable Services

Each homeless child or youth shall be provided services comparable to services offeredto other students enrolled in MCCPS, such as

Educational services for which the child or youth meets eligibility criteria such asESL or special education programs

School nutrition programs Enrichment programs After School programs

Transportation

At the request of the parent, transportation will be provided for homeless children toMCCPS for the duration of the school year or until the childs family finds permanenthousing.

Permanent housing is defined as any signed lease or long-term approved living situation.Self-paying day to day in a motel is not considered permanent housing.


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Local Educational Agency Liaison

The Interim Academic Director will be the liaison for homeless children and youths.

Homeless Liaison Molly Wright 781-631-0777

The Homeless Liaison or designee shall ensure that: homeless children and youths are voluntarily identified by school personnel and

through coordination with other entities and agencies homeless children and youth enroll in and have a full and equal opportunity to

succeed at MCCPS. homeless families, children, and youths receive educational services for which

they are eligible and referrals to other appropriate services. the parents or guardians of a homeless child or youth is informed of the

educational and related opportunities available to them and are provided withmeaningful opportunities to participate in the education of the child/youth.

public notice of the educational rights of homeless children and youths isdisseminated in such public places as schools, meal sites.

compliance with all policies and procedures and mediate disputes. the parents or guardians of a homeless child or youth are informed of all

transportation services. coordination of services between MCCPS and other homeless family service

providers. assistance is provided to children and youth who do not have immunizations, or

immunization or medical records, to obtain necessary immunizations, orimmunization or medical records.

students are not segregated on the basis of their status as homeless.

programs for homeless students are coordinated with other federal and localprograms

Disputes

The Homeless Liaison shall carry out the dispute process as expeditiously as possibleafter receiving the notice of the dispute.

The MCCPS Constructive Communication Protocol will be followed in the event of adispute.


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ADDITIONAL INFO ABOUT CHARTER SCHOOLS

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONShttp://www.masscharterschools.org/schools/aboutschools.html

Q. What is a charter public school?A. Charter schools are public schools, authorized by the Department of Education andoperating tuition free for students in the Commonwealth. Founders are generally parents,community members, and/or members of the general public, who come together andwrite a proposal for a school. Often charter public schools are organized around aspecific mission, theme, or curricular focus. The Department of Education determineswhich charter public schools will open and provides rigorous review, oversight, andevaluation of those schools.

There are two types of charter public schools: Commonwealth Charter Schools andHorace Mann Charter Schools. MCCPS is a Commonwealth Charter School. Both

operate independent of the local school system, but a Horace Mann Charter School musthave the approval of the local school committee and teachers' union, and their yearlybudget request must be approved by the local school committee as well. Every charterpublic school is managed by a board of trustees.

In exchange for specific freedoms (in organizational structure, mission, and academicprogram), charter public schools are held to high levels of accountability; they mustsuccessfully manage school finances and operations, and they must demonstrate studentachievement; if they don't, the school may be closed.

Charter public schools began in Minnesota in 1991 as a way to offer students the choice

to attend new and different public schools. In Massachusetts, charter public schools wereinitiated as part of the Education Reform Act of 1993, to offer choice and to fosterinnovation in education. Currently Massachusetts has 61 charter public schools.

Q. How are Commonwealth charter schools funded?

A. For each child that a Commonwealth charter school enrolls, it receives a tuitionamount from the state equal to a per-pupil amount calculated by the Department's SchoolFinance Unit. The state then deducts the same amount from the sending district's (schooldistrict pertaining to the municipality in which the student resides) state aid account.Like other public schools, Commonwealth charter schools are eligible to receive federaland state grant funds. Commonwealth charter schools may apply for private grants and

receive contributions. For more detailed information about how the state calculatestuition payments for Commonwealth charter schools, visithttp://finance1.doe.mass.edu/charter/.


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Q. Do charter schools serve students with special needs and students who are

English language learners?

A. Yes. Charter schools cannot discriminate in admissions on the basis of special need orEnglish language proficiency. Once admitted, students who are special needs or Englishlanguage learners must be appropriately identified, assessed, and served in accordance

with federal and state requirements. For special education, this requires a full- or part-time special education administrator and additional staff to meet the needs of student'sIndividual Education Programs. The number of staff required varies by level of servicesrequired and by the size of the school. See http://www.doe.mass.edu/sped/laws.html formore information on special education laws and regulations. English language learnersmust be identified and supported in their acquisition of the English language through aprogram of sheltered English immersion and instructed by appropriately qualified andcertified staff. See http://www.doe.mass.edu/lawsregs/603cmr14.html for moreinformation on the laws and regulations relating to English language learners.

Q. Are laws and regulations waived for charter schools?

A. Charter schools must follow the same state educational standards, administer the samestate tests, and abide by almost all the same state and federal laws and regulations asother public schools in the Commonwealth. Commonwealth charter schools however, arenot subject to local school district rules and may operate without collective bargainingagreements. Horace Mann charter schools, depending on the terms of their charters, maybe exempt from some local school district rules and some provisions of the localcollective bargaining agreement and regulations. (As is the case for other public schools,charter schools may request waivers from state regulations.)

Q. What are the certification/training requirements for charter school teachers?

A. State law requires that all Massachusetts charter school teachers hired after August 10,2000 must either be certified OR pass the appropriate Massachusetts Test(s) for EducatorLicensure (MTEL) within one year of their date of employment. For more information onthis requirement or alternative certification, please contact the Department's Office ofEducator Quality at (781) 338-6600. Additional information on determining HighlyQualified Teacher status may be found online athttp://www.doe.mass.edu/charter/tech_advisory/03_2.html and through the federal NoChild Left Behind website athttp://www.ed.gov/nclb/methods/teachers/hqtflexibility.html.

Q. What do the state curriculum frameworks and state tests mean for charter

schools?

A. All public schools, including charter schools, must administer the MassachusettsComprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) tests. These tests are based on thecurriculum frameworks adopted by the Board of Education. Charter schools must alsoadminister any other assessment the Board of Education may require. MCAS results areused in the charter school accountability process and are central in evaluating whether aschool is an academic success.


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Q. What accountability is required of charter schools?

A. Authorized by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts' Education Reform Act of 1993,charter schools are independent public schools that operate under five year chartersgranted by the Commonwealth's Board of Education.

The increased freedom available to charter schools coupled with increased accountability,infuses all aspects of the Department of Education's oversight of charter schools,beginning with the rigorous application process that groups must go through to receive acharter. Once the Board of Education has awarded a charter, the new charter school hasthe freedom to organize around a core mission, curriculum, theme, or teaching method. Itis allowed to control its own budget and hire (and fire) teachers and staff. In return forthis freedom, a charter school must demonstrate good results within five years or risklosing its charter.

The Board of Education is obligated by Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 71, Section89, and attendant regulations to conduct an ongoing review of charter schools and, in the

fifth year of a school's operation, decide whether its charter should be renewed.Specifically, the renewal of a public school charter is based on affirmative answers tothree questions:

* Is the academic program a success?* Is the school a viable organization?* Is the school faithful to the terms of its charter?

The answers to these questions are based on a variety of information that is both providedby the school and gathered by the Department of Education.

MYTHS AND REALITIEShttp://www.masscharterschools.org/schools/myths.html

MYTH: Charter public schools are private schools.REALITY: Charter schools are public schools open to any child, free of charge.

MYTH: Charter public schools accept only the "cream of the crop" and reject underperforming students.REALITY: Unlike private schools, charter public schools do not recruit and select "thebest" students. When enrollment requests exceed the number of seats, charter schoolshold a public lottery to determine who will attend. Because they are free and open to all,charter public schools do not engage in selective admissions policies.

MYTH: Charter public schools do not provide special education services.REALITY: Charter public schools are under the same state and federal obligation toprovide in-school special education services as other public schools.


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MYTH: Charter public schools "drain money" from district public schools.REALITY: When charter public schools are funded, there is no loss of public schoolmoney because charter schools are public schools. The total amount of spendingonpublic education in communities with charter public schools is unchanged.

MYTH: Charter public schools receive more state money than district public schools.REALITY: Charter public schools receive exactly what the districts spend to educatetheir students. A new funding formula ensures that the amount of money that charterpublic schools receive reflects the demographics, grade levels, and special educationneeds of the students who enroll.

MYTH: Charter public schools cost more.REALITY: When you factor in both operating expenses and facility costs, charter publicschools cost less than district public schools. Charter public schools are not eligible toreceive state subsidies from the School Building Assistance Bureau (SBAB), whichgrants districts large subsidies (60% to 90% of the total cost) to finance new construction

or major renovations.

MYTH: The state should not be expanding any programs during tight fiscal times.REALITY: Charter public schools require no new state funds, so this "expansion" comeswithout a price tag. Charter public schools receive the same amount of money thatdistrict public schools would receive if they were still educating that student. The moneyis just being moved from one public school to another public school.

MYTH: District public schools do not save $1 for every $1 that's transferred to charterpublic schools when a student enrolls in a charter public school.REALITY: Legislation provides that district public schools are reimbursed for the moneythat is transferred to charter public schools: 100% the first year; 60% the second; 40% thethird. This gives district schools four years to adjust their budgets for the loss of students.Districts have to constantly adjust their budgets to account for changes in enrollment,whether students leave for charters or private schools, or when families move out oftown. The only time they are reimbursed for such changes is for charter school transfers.

MYTH: Charter public schools are not held accountable for performance.REALITY: The charter application process is rigorous. Only strong, viable applicationsare approved. The charter public school renewal process is equally stringent. Charterpublic schools must reapply for certification every five years and are subject to annualinspections by the state. Charter public schools that don't succeed don't survive. TheWashington-based Thomas B. Fordham Institute ranked Massachusetts' application,performance, and oversight practices the toughest in the nation.

MYTH: Charter public schools are an unproven experiment.REALITY: Charter public school students are outscoring their district counterparts onMCAS, and the longer students are enrolled in charter public schools, the better they do.In addition, charter public schools are held to extremely high standards; charters arerenewed every five years; if they fail, they are closed by the state.


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MYTH: Charter public schools are a fad.REALITY: There is continued demand for charter public schools. There are over 20,000students currently enrolled in charter public schools that are already operating or havebeen approved by the state, with over 14,000 students on charter public school waiting

lists.

STAY INFORMED & MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD!

To receive email notices from MCCPS, go to marbleheadcharter.org.On the home page, bottom left side, click on Get MCCPS Email Updates.

To receive regular updates from the Massachusetts Charter School Association and to beable to send emails to your state legislators visit:

http://www.masscharterschools.org/advocacy/newsletter.html.On the right side of the home screen, click on Parents: Sign Up Here.

MCCPS 2007-2008 ACADEMIC/PROFESSIONAL SCHEDULEAugust 30, 2007 -June 20, 2008 - Academic School Year - 185 Days

August 27, 2007 - June 26, 2008- Professional School Year- 195 Days

Documents

Student Handbook 09