2 0 2 0 - 2 0 2 1 s t u d e n t / p a r e n t h a n d b o

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C-A Middle School Student/Parent Handbook

2020-2021

Coxsackie-Athens Middle School 24 Sunset Boulevard

Coxsackie, New York 12051

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COXSACKIE-ATHENS CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT PHILOSOPHY OF EDUCATION

MISSION STATEMENT

The C-A community works collaboratively to create personalized learning opportunities. We develop self-directed college and career ready students who are prepared to succeed in our global society.

REPORT CARDS & INTERIM REPORTS STANDARD BASED GRADING

Report Cards and Interim Reports are available on the parent portal. Interim Reports are issued at the midpoint of each quarter. Report Cards and Interim Reports can be mailed directly home upon request.

A student may be given a grade of “I” for incomplete in the event there is a continued

absence immediately prior to the end of the marking period and there is no time to make up the work or there is some other extenuating circumstance. The student has 10 school days following the end of a marking period to make up an incomplete. If it is not made up, the incomplete work receives a TBD

A final average for a full year course is determined by averaging the marking period grades and factoring in midterm and final exam grades (grades 6, 7, 8). In grade 6, the midterm and final exam are 5% of the final grade. In grade 7, the midterm is 5% and the final exam is 10% of the final grade. In grade 8, the midterm and final exams are 10% of the final grade.

ADDING OR DROPPING A COURSE

Each year, as students work with their counselors, teachers, and parents to make their selections for courses for the upcoming year, it is important that they do so with great care. Opportunities to change courses once the school year has begun are very limited.

Students taking a distance learning course can alter their schedule for the first 10 days of the school year.

Students wishing to add or drop Band or Chorus can alter their schedule for the first 10 days of the school year or 10 days prior to the start of the 2 nd semester.

If a student wishes to challenge the policy due to unforeseen circumstances (i.e. serious illness), students are responsible for initiating the request to drop or change a course directly with their guidance counselor. A form must be completed, which includes input from the student, parent/guardian, teacher(s) and the counselor. Once the form is complete, and all required signatures have been obtained, it will be reviewed by the building principal. Students are expected to attend, and follow, their original class schedule until a determination has been made and an official schedule change has been provided to them by their counselor.

Please note that under no circumstances will course changes by considered for the following reasons:

● Teacher preference ● Choice of particular time for a study hall or lunch

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HIGH HONOR/HONOR ROLL -TO BE DETERMINED Students will be placed on the honor roll list if they receive an average of 85% or better

during the academic quarter. No grade can be below a 75%. For high honor roll, students must have a 90% or better average with no grade below a 75%

HONOR PASSES- TBD

Students whose grades reflect high academic success should be honored. All students listed at the end of each quarter as high honor roll students will receive an honor pass that entitles them to free entrance to games, plays, dances, etc. for 10 weeks. This pass also may be used in lieu of a hall pass for locker privileges and library access.

FAILURES AND GRADE RETENTION

All courses require a final average of 2.0 or better for successful completion of the course.

(?) In a course in which a Regents Common Core Exam is given, a student must pass the

exam in order to receive Regents credit. If the student fails the Regents Common Core Exam, school credit will be received for the course if the final average is 65% or over. If a student fails the course, but passes the Regents Common Core Exam, the student must repeat the course in accordance with the existing policy. The Regents Common Core Exam counts only 1/5 of the final grade.

MIDDLE SCHOOL PROMOTION POLICY Promotion in Grades 5, 6, 7 and 8 will be based upon the successful completion of the

student’s academic year. Therefore, a student may be required to repeat the entire grade if he/she fails two core subjects or one core subject and two exploratory subjects. Core subjects are ELA, Social Studies, Math, Science and LOTE. All other subjects are considered to be exploratory subjects.

A student may be required to repeat the entire grade if he/she fails any of the following core subjects for two consecutive years: ELA, Math, Science or Social Studies.

Subject failures can be made up for the purpose of promotion by attending an approved

summer school and successfully completing the subject(s). To be eligible for attending a summer school program in a subject failed, the student must meet the following criteria:

- The final mark in the failed subject must not be lower than 50. - If Math is one of the subjects failed, it may be required to be taken and passed in

order to be promoted.

If a student fails only one subject, it is strongly recommended that he/she attend summer school.

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Ref: Former Policy 8:1E Adopted by Board of Education Date: 07/13/93 Reviewed by Board of Education Date: 11/99 Revised by Board of Education Date: 05/03

REQUIREMENTS FOR ACCELERATED MATH AND SCIENCE

Grade 6

A student must maintain a grade of 3.0 or higher in math. If the math grade is below 3.0 , the student is withdrawn from accelerated math.

Grade 7

A student must maintain a grade of 3.0 or higher in math. If the math grade is below 3.0 , the student is withdrawn from both accelerated math and accelerated science. A student must maintain a grade of 3.0 or higher in science. If the science grade is below 3.0 , the student is withdrawn from accelerated science (can remain in accelerated math).

Grade 8 A student must maintain a grade of 3.0 or higher in algebra. If the algebra grade is below 3.0 , the student is withdrawn from accelerated algebra and accelerated science. A student must maintain a grade of 3.0 or higher to remain in the Earth Science program. If the Earth Science grade is below 3.0 , the student is withdrawn from Earth Science. Intent: Earth Science students need to be in the accelerated math program.

STUDENT’S RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES A. Student Rights The aim of the school district is to provide an environment in which a student’s rights and

freedom are respected, and to provide opportunities which stimulate and challenge the student’s interests and abilities to his/her highest potential. These opportunities will be available as long as the student pursues these interests and studies in an appropriate manner, and does not infringe upon the rights of others.

The Board of Education assures that district students shall have all the rights afforded

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them by federal and state constitutions and statutes. The District recognizes all federal, state and local laws in connection with these rights, and reminds students that certain responsibilities accompany these rights.

It shall be the right of each district student:

1. To have a safe, healthy, orderly and courteous school environment; 2. To take part in all district activities on an equal basis regardless of race,

color, creed, gender, national origin, disability, religion, or sexual orientation;

3. To attend school and participate in school programs unless suspended from instruction and participation for legally sufficient cause as determined in accordance with due process of law;

4. To have school rules and conditions available for review and, whenever necessary, explanation by school personnel;

5. To be suspended from instruction only after his/her rights pursuant to Education Law 3214 have been observed; and

6. In all disciplinary matters, to have the opportunity to present his/her version of the facts and circumstances leading to imposition of disciplinary sanctions to the professional staff member imposing such sanction.

B. Student Responsibilities All district students have the responsibility to:

1. Contribute to maintaining a safe and orderly school environment that is conducive to learning and to show respect to other persons and to property.

2. Be familiar with and abide by all district policies, rules and regulations, dealing with student conduct.

3. Attend school every day unless they are legally excused and be in class on time, and prepared to learn.

4. Work to the best of their ability in all academic and extracurricular pursuits and strive toward their highest level of achievement possible.

5. React to direction given by teachers, administrators and other school personnel in a respectful, positive manner.

6. Work to develop mechanisms to control their anger. 7. Ask questions when they do not understand. 8. Seek help in solving problems that might lead to discipline. 9. Dress appropriately for school and school functions. 10. Accept responsibility for their actions. 11. Conduct themselves as representatives of the district when participating in

or attending school functions and to hold themselves to the highest standards of conduct, demeanor, and sportsmanship.

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The Maintenance of Public Order at The Coxsackie-Athens Central School District

Preface

Chapter 740, Article 44 of the laws of 1972 prescribes the right and duty of the Board of Education of the Coxsackie-Athens Central School District to promulgate regulations of conduct of students, teachers, other staff, visitors, licensees and invitees for the maintenance of public order on school property of the school district.

These rules of conduct shall be promulgated to maintain public order so that all persons mentioned above may enjoy the rights guaranteed them by the laws of the United States, the State of New York, and the Coxsackie-Athens Central School District. These persons shall assume the responsibilities implied by these rights.

A. Violations of these provisions set forth herein will be reported immediately to the Board of Education and its delegated administrative officers. (Hereafter referred to as “school officials”) by teachers, school employees, students or other persons. These reports will be oral and/or in writing depending on the circumstances surrounding the allegation.

Any report shall state particulars giving names, descriptions and specifics regarding the incident.

B. The school officials will give immediate oral and/or written notice to persons

violating these provisions that disciplinary action will be taken (listed as sanctions) and that continuance or repetition of the violation will be cause for more severe disciplinary action (further listed below).

C. Sanctions for Student Violation

1. Disciplinary Probation . Students will be excluded from participation in privileges or school extracurricular activities for a specified period of time.

2. Restitution. There will be reimbursement for damage to or misappropriation

of property. Restitution may take a form of compensation for damages other than monetary.

3. Suspension. Exclusion from classes and for all other privileges or activities

of the school for a specified period of time. When re-admission is established the conditions under which it may be granted will be specified in the order of suspension.

4. Expulsion. Termination of student status by the Board of Education.

D. Sanctions for other persons (visitors, licensees, guests). Violation by other persons will be treated by the same sanctions which

apply to the students of the school district (in section C-1, C-2 & C-3).

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Appropriate action may be taken against any and all persons who are classified as loiterers and/or trespassers and who have no acceptable or authorized reason for being present on school district property.

If necessary the school district administration or their appointees will eject, or cause to be ejected, such persons from school district property.

Persons who have a continuing and formal relationship to the school (employees and students) and who are acting in such a way as to disrupt the orderly functioning of the school may be ejected or caused to be ejected by the Chief School Officer or his designee. Subsequent to ejection, such persons will be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with these rules.

The list of regulations established is not to be considered all inclusive and may be amended at any time by the Board of Education of the Coxsackie-Athens Central School District.

At no time is the action of the school officials in dealing with violations of these regulations intended to deny due process of law to individuals.

Regulations by the Board of Education, for Conduct on School District Property:

(Chapter 740 - Article 55)

Willful disruption of the orderly conduct of classes or of any school program or activity

The Board of Education and its delegated administrative officers, (hereafter referred to as “school officials”), shall consider contrary to proper conduct any unauthorized action by students, employees, visitors or others (herein after referred to as “person”) present on school property disrupting the teacher-learning process, co-curricular activity programs or disciplinary proceedings of the school.

Oral and/or written notice will be given to the persons immediately by school officials. Disciplinary action will be taken and persons put on notice that continuation or repetition of this violation will be cause for a more severe disciplinary action.

School officials will invoke disciplinary suspension of privileges for a specified period of time, expulsion from the premises, and/or enlist the support of parents, law enforcement agencies, and the courts where appropriate.

The school officials shall consider it contrary to proper conduct for any persons to be involved in disorderly, lewd, indecent, obscene or abusive conduct on school property and/or school sponsored functions. No person will be allowed on school property or at school functions that is under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs.

Oral and/or written notice will be given to the persons immediately by school officials. Disciplinary action will be taken and persons put on notice that continuation or repetition of this violation will be cause for more severe disciplinary action.

Willful interference with lawful activities of others

The “school officials” shall consider it contrary to proper conduct for any “persons” to interfere with work programs of employees, supervision of school functions and students, and

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the transportation programs of students to, during, and from school functions. Oral and/or written notice will be to given the persons immediately by school officials.

Disciplinary action will be taken and persons put on notice that continuation or repetition of this violation will be cause for more severe disciplinary action.

School officials will invoke disciplinary suspension of privileges for a specified period of time, expulsion from the premises, and/or enlist the support of parents, law enforcement agencies and the courts where appropriate.

Willful physical injury or any physical injury to any person The “school officials” shall consider it contrary to proper conduct for any “persons” to

willfully inflict physical injury or the threat of physical injury to any other person on school premises before, during, and after school instructional programs, activities and transportation programs.

School officials will invoke disciplinary suspension of privileges for a specified period of time, expulsion from the premises and/or enlist the support of parents, law enforcement agencies and the courts where appropriate.

Possession of Weapons

The “school officials” shall consider it contrary to proper conduct for any “persons” to make unauthorized use of or have in their possession firearms (shotguns, rifles, pistols, automatic weapons, homemade weapons, pellet/BB guns), illegal knives, sharp implements, or dangerous weapons.

At no time will the school officials allow the unauthorized use of explosives and/or explosive chemicals on school property or at any school sponsored functions. The above mentioned articles will not be kept on school premises without authorization.

Immediate oral and/or written notice will be given by school officials to the persons violating this provision. All regulations as set forth in the Gun Free School Act will be implemented, including a maximum of 1 year suspension from school.

Immediate confiscation of the above-mentioned articles will be affected by school personnel upon discovery of the violation. The proper law enforcement agencies and/or courts will be involved where appropriate in keeping with existing state and local laws. School officials will invoke sanctions listed in C and D.

Willful theft, damage or destruction of property on school premises The “school officials” shall consider it contrary to proper conduct for any person to

willfully steal, damage or destroy school property or private property on school premises at any time. School property is defined as the buildings, their fixed appointments, furniture, equipment, rented or leased objects and materials purchased by the school for its use in the overall program.

School officials will notify, in writing, the persons known to have violated this provision that remunerative restitution is required in the parameters of current market value. School officials may take further action in disciplinary suspension of privileges and/or exclusion from school premises. Law enforcement and legal agencies may be involved when appropriate.

Unauthorized entry and occupancy of school premises

The “school officials” shall consider it contrary to proper conduct for any person to forcibly attempt to enter upon any portion of the school premises for any purpose without

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authorization from the school officials. There shall be no unauthorized access to school property by any persons. School buses

are included in “school property” when on school trips. Oral and/or written notice will be given to the persons immediately by the school official.

Disciplinary action will be taken and persons put on notice that continuation or repetition of this violation will be cause for more severe disciplinary action.

School official will invoke disciplinary suspension of privileges for a specified period of

time, expulsion from the premises, and/or enlist the support of parents, law enforcement agencies, and the courts where appropriate.

Regulations for visitors to school buildings and grounds

Any visitors to school premises must enter the buildings through the secure main entrance and proceed to the window at the main office. They must state their purpose for being on school grounds and secure authorization in the form of a visitor’s pass from the building principal, superintendent or his/her designee. Picture ID may be required. Visitors will be signed in by the office personnel, provide collateral such as keys or a driver’s license, and receive a visitor’s tag which must be returned at the close of the visit at which time, any collateral will be returned . The visitor’s pass must be visible at all times. No student visitors are permitted unless they are taking part in a specific curricular or extracurricular program. Only those persons with legitimate reasons for being there will be allowed in the building. Indiscriminate wandering through the building is prohibited. Unauthorized visitors are an interruption and an insurance liability to the school district. Therefore, teachers should not permit unauthorized visitors in their classroom.

Regulations for conduct during fire drills and safety drills.

The first requirement for safety during drills is that students be able to follow the authorized procedures established by school officials for that particular building and the directions given by school personnel. Therefore, school officials shall consider it contrary to proper conduct for any person to interfere with, disrupt, or impede the normal procedures during school safety and fire drills.

Each building principal shall prepare and have approved by the school officials, written procedures for conducting fire and civil procedures, enumerate exits and re-entry details, traffic routers, waiting areas and conduct of students and employees and post them in each room.

Regulations regarding bomb threats The school officials shall consider it contrary to proper conduct for any persons who

knowing the same to be false, circulate or transmit to another or others, with intent it be acted upon, any statement or rumor, written, printed or by work of mouth, concerning the location of a bomb or other explosive on any portion of school premises or school vehicles.

When a bomb threat is made to the school, emergency procedures for that building will

commence immediately. The police will be notified. The Chief School Officer will be notified. A search of the building will be conducted by the police and authorized school personnel. All persons will follow the emergency response procedures for bomb threats.

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Immediate oral and/or written notice will be given to persons known to have violated this provision that they have committed a misdemeanor and will be prosecuted through the courts. (Section 727 of the Penal law).

School officials may also invoke disciplinary suspension of privileges for a specified period of time and/or exclusion for the premises for violators.

All people who enter school property, which also includes school vehicles, or attend school sponsored events are directed and required to follow the District’s Re-opening Plan and written protocols. The Plan and written protocols can be found at the district's web site home page. This includes, but is not limited to, any requirements to wear face masks, wash hands, maintain social distancing, permit temperature checks, and answer screening questionnaires. Failure to follow the Plan or protocols, as well as failure to follow the directive of an appropriate school official relating to following the Plan or protocols, may result in a person being refused entrance, or an administrator directing the person to leave the school property or event. It may also result in further consequences as follows:

● For all people, the District may contact law enforcement for trespass where the person refuses to leave school property as directed, as well as for any other violations committed;

● For students, discipline pursuant to the District’s Code of Conduct for insubordination, endangering the health, safety, or welfare of others, as well as other applicable violations of the Code of Conduct;

● For parents and other visitors, ban on attending school events as well as consequences pursuant to the Visitors’ Code of Conduct;

● For school personnel formal discipline, up to and including termination.

PROHIBITED STUDENT CONDUCT

The Board of Education is committed to maintaining a school which provides students and staff with productive, satisfying, and wholesome learning environments. Essentially, this means that relationships are such that students can learn and teachers can teach. Such an environment should allow students to learn behavior patterns which will enable them to be responsible, contributing members of society,

The Board is also committed to protecting First Amendment freedoms within the school

system; however, lawlessness in any form will not be tolerated. The school district will not permit students to engage in any conduct intended to destroy personal or school property, disrupt or interfere with teaching, research, service, administrative or disciplinary functions, or any district-sponsored or approved activity.

In order to teach each student how to develop as a responsible citizen with society, the school must clearly define the values and ideas by which personal and group conduct is judged.

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Toward this end, the school should foster a disciplined environment which will guide each individual in developing a firm code of moral conduct and respect for the dignity of others.

The Board shall, at various times, approve rules of conduct for students, which shall clearly state the forms of behavior which shall be unacceptable on school property or at school functions.

It shall be the responsibility of the Superintendent of Schools to ensure that all policies regarding student conduct and discipline are uniformly enforced and distributed annually to students, staff, and interested district residents.

Students may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including suspension from school, when they:

A. Engage in conduct that is disorderly. Examples of disorderly conduct include;

1. Running in hallways 2. Making unreasonable noise 3. Using language or gestures that are profane, lewd, vulgar or abusive 4. Obstructing vehicular or pedestrian traffic 5. Engaging in any willful act which disrupts the normal operation of the

school community 6. Trespassing. Students are not permitted in any school building, other than

the one regularly attend, without permission from the administrator in charge of the building.

7. Computer/electronic communications misuse, including any unauthorized use of computers, software, or internet/intranet account: accessing inappropriate websites: or any other violation of the district’s acceptable use policy. (Ref. Board Policy #4550; #5325)

B. Engage in conduct that is insubordinate. Examples of insubordinate conduct

include: 1. Failing to comply with the reasonable directions of teachers, school

administrators or other school employees in charge of students or otherwise demonstrating disrespect

2. Lateness, truancy, leaving school without permission, and non-compliance with the District attendance policies

3. Skipping detention

C. Engage in conduct that is disruptive. Examples of disruptive conduct include: 1. Failing to comply with the reasonable directions of teachers, school

administrators or other school personnel in charge of students

D. Engage in conduct that is violent. Examples of violent conduct include: 1. Committing an act of violence (such as hitting, kicking, punching, and

scratching) upon a teacher, administrator or other school employee or attempting to do so

2. Committing an act of violence such as hitting, kicking, punching, and scratching) upon another student or any other person lawfully on school

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property or attempting to do so 3. Possessing a weapon. Authorized law enforcement are the only persons

permitted to have a weapon in their possession while on school property or at a school function (Ref. Board Policy #5312.21)

4. Displaying what appears to be a weapon 5. Threatening to use any weapon 6. Intentionally damaging or destroying the personal property of a student,

teacher, administrator or other district employee, or any person lawfully on school property. This includes graffiti or arson as well

7. Intentionally damaging or destroying school district property

E. Engage in any conduct that endangers the safety, morals, health or welfare of others. Examples of such conduct include:

1. Lying to school personnel 2. Stealing the property of other students, school personnel or any other person

lawfully on school property or attending a school function 3. Defamation, which includes making false or unprivileged statements or

representations about an individual or identifiable group of individuals that harm the reputation of the person or the identifiable group

4. Discrimination, which includes the use of race, color, creed, national origin, religion, gender sexual orientation or disability as a basis for treating another in a negative manner

5. Harassment, which includes a sufficiently severe action or a persistent, pervasive pattern of actions or statements directed at an identifiable individual or group which are intended to be or which a reasonable person would perceive as ridiculing or demeaning. This includes sexual harassment as well. (Ref. Policy #5400)

6. Intimidation, which includes engaging in actions or statements that put an individual in fear of bodily harm

7. Hazing, which includes any intentional or reckless act directed against another for the purpose of initiation into, affiliating with or maintaining membership in any school sponsored activity, organization, club or team

8. Selling, using, possessing, or creating obscene material 9. Using vulgar or abusive language, cursing or swearing 10. Possessing or smoking a cigarette, cigar, pipe or using chewing or

smokeless tobacco 11. Possessing, consuming, selling, distributing or exchanging alcoholic

beverages or illegal substances, or being under the influence of either. “Illegal substances” include, but are not limited to inhalants, marijuana, cocaine, LSD, PCP, amphetamines, heroin, steroids, look-alike drugs, and any substances commonly referred to as “designer drugs.” This also includes possession of any drug-related paraphernalia (Ref. Board Policy #5312.4; #9195)

12. Inappropriately using or sharing prescription and over-the-counter drugs 13. Illegal gambling 14. Indecent exposure, that is, exposure to sight of the private parts of the body

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in a lewd or indecent manner 15. Initiating a report warning of fire or other catastrophe without valid cause,

misuse of 911, or discharging a fire extinguisher 16. Possessing or using fireworks, stink bombs and smoke bombs

F. Engage in misconduct while on a school bus.

It is crucial for students to behave appropriately while riding on district buses to ensure their safety and that of other passengers and to avoid distracting the bus driver. Students are required to conduct themselves on the bus in a manner consistent with established standards for classroom behavior. Excessive noise, pushing, shoving, fighting and vandalism will not be tolerated.

G. Engage in any form of academic misconduct.

Examples of academic misconduct include but are not limited to:

1. Plagiarism (both electronic and non-electronic) 2. Cheating 3. Copying 4. Altering records 5. Assisting another student in any of the above actions

Penalties The range of penalties which may be imposed for violations of the student disciplinary

code includes (but may not be limited to) the following:

1. Verbal warning 2. Written notification to the parents 3. Counseling/mediation 4. Reprimand 5. Detention 6. Removal from classroom by teacher 7. Suspension from transportation 8. Suspension from cafeteria 9. Suspension from extracurricular activities or athletic teams 10. Suspension of other privileges 11. Exclusion from a particular class 12. Alternate Learning Site 13. Out-of school suspension 14. Referral to Alternative Evening Program 15. Long term suspension (more than five days) 16. Referral to Family Court

Depending upon the nature of the violation, it is the desire of the Board of Education that student discipline be progressive, i.e., a student’s first violation should merit a lighter penalty than subsequent violations. It is also the Board’s desire that an employee or agent take into account all other relevant factors which may reasonably be determined in an

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appropriate penalty. The above penalties may be imposed either alone or in combination. Such penalties will be imposed by the Superintendent of Schools or with his/her permission. This policy and the Board’s rules and regulations for the maintenance of public order on school property will be publicized and explained by the teaching staff of all students and provided in writing to all parents on an annual basis. In order to ensure the effectiveness of this student discipline code, the Board requests the continuing assistance of parents in explaining and enforcing the code. A student handbook will be made available each year for the entire student population. The student’s right to a Superintendent’s hearing before a suspension from attendance in excess of five days and the right to an appeal of such a suspension to the Board pursuant to the Education Law 3214 is recognized by the Board.

IN/OUT OF SCHOOL SUSPENSION

A student is placed on in-school suspension by the administration for disciplinary reasons and it is not to be viewed as free or social time while there. The student must stay in the in-school-suspension room through the end of the school day .

Students are expected to follow the directions of the in-school-suspension monitor. Those students who continue to be disruptive while placed on in-school-suspension may

be placed on out-of-school suspension for up to five (5) days for violation of school rules or policies. Parents will be contacted.

Teachers will be contacted by the in-school-suspension monitor or the Building Principal so classroom work will be provided for students to keep them up with their classroom work and assignments. Students will not lose credit for being absent from class when on in-school-suspension.

The Board of Education, and the Superintendent of Schools have delegated to the building Principals the authority to suspend a student for a period of up to five (5) school days. Prior to the suspended student’s return to school, every attempt will be made to have a formal conference with the suspended student and the person in parental relationship to the student. For frequent offenders, parents may be asked to attend school with their child.

Suspensions in excess of five (5) school days may be imposed by the Superintendent of Schools or the Board of Education on a student who is insubordinate, disorderly, or whose conduct otherwise endangers the health, safety, morale or welfare of himself or others. A student may not be suspended for more than five (5) school days, however, unless the student and the person in parental relationship to the student have an opportunity for a hearing before the Superintendent of Schools or the Board of Education. At such a hearing, the student has the following rights:

o to be represented by counsel; o to present witnesses; o to testify regarding the subject of charges; and o to refrain from testifying.

A record of the hearing must be made by stenographic transcript or tape recording.

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Students who are suspended (in-school or out-of-school) on the day of an extra curricular

activity may not participate in that activity, such as, but not limited to: sporting events (participate or spectate), clubs, intramurals, dances, and concerts.

SCHOOL DAY

The school day begins at 8:10 and ends at 2:20 or 3:09 if authorized by the principal. ALL STUDENTS MUST LEAVE THE BUILDING AT 2:20 PM UNLESS ASKED TO STAY EXPECTATIONS

1. A student is committed and must stay the extra help period if they are involved in any of the following situations:

a. Teacher assistance in coursework is required. b. Teacher assigns a student to stay because of behavior or discipline problems. c. Student assigned by Principal to detention.

2. Students who are wandering the hallways after 2:30 PM will be assigned to a detention room and sent home.

SCHOOL ATTENDANCE

EXPECTATIONS

1. Regular attendance is critical to class participation. 2. On the day students return to school following absence (or lateness), a written

excuse from the parent/guardian must be turned into the homeroom teacher. This excuse whether for absence or release from school should contain the following information:

a. Student name b. Date of absence c. Reason for the absence (legal reasons are medical, educational, emergency

situation). Student’s absence for hunting, fishing, shopping, driving test, just because, etc. are not legal and will be recorded as such.

d. Phone number where a parent/guardian can be reached e. Doctor’s name where appropriate f. Parent or guardian’s signature

3. A student who is absent on the day of an activity and who has not made

arrangements in advance with the main office, may not participate in that day’s activity.

MIDDLE SCHOOL ATTENDANCE POLICY

1. Ten (10) days absent – letter to parents 2. Twenty (20) days absent – letter to parents, attendance officer may be called to visit

home; students may be banned from participating in any school-sponsored activity

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requiring them to miss classes; 3. For each instance of truancy, a student will be assigned to the Alternate Learning

Site and receive a “zero” for the time truant; notice sent to parents. Ref: Board Policy #5100

TARDINESS TO SCHOOL OR CLASS

Promptness to school and classes is necessary for the proper functioning of the building, and is a necessary work habit for a successful student. EXPECTATIONS

1. A student who is not in his homeroom seat at the 8:10 a.m. bell is tardy. 2. A student is given five minutes to pass between classes. If you are detained for any

reason by a teacher, request a pass to the next class. CONSEQUENCES

1. Middle School students who arrive late for class may be assigned a detention by the classroom teacher.

2. A student guilty of unexcused or excessive tardiness may be placed on the ineligibility list by an administrator.

3. Placement of a student on suspension may also occur for excessive tardiness. 4. A student who arrives after 10:00 a.m. and is to participate in an extracurricular

event, must possess an acceptable written excuse or the student will not be allowed to attend the event. Legal excuses are: medical, dental, death in the family, court. A note from the doctor or dentist is required.

5. When late to class, present to your teacher a signed pass. If you do not have a pass, quietly take your seat and after class explain the reason you were late to your teacher. Your teacher may assign a period to make up work missed or as a detention. If you do not attend, the teacher will contact your parent, and, if necessary, refer you to an Administrator.

BAND AND CHORUS ADD/DROP POLICY Band and Chorus are elective courses in Grades 5 through 8. Students may add and/or

drop band and chorus at two (2) times during the school year. Students may add and/or drop band and chorus during the first two (2) weeks of September or 10 days prior to the start of the 2 nd semester. Joining band and chorus is a commitment. Students prepare for concerts and depend on one another to produce quality performances. Students wishing to add and/or drop band and chorus need to pick up a green schedule change request form from the Counseling Office. This form needs to be signed by a parent/guardian and the student’s band/chorus teacher.

VACATION – HOMEWORK POLICY For students in grade 5 who request schoolwork due to a family trip or similar reason, the following will apply:

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1. Students should take all relevant materials with them. 2. Parents should email the teacher to request the missed work at least one week in

advance, in order for the teacher to gather and prepare materials needed to complete assignments.

3. All assignments other than those requiring a handout given during the absence will be due on the day a student returns to school. Handout assignments, quizzes, tests, and labs must be made up by the end of the third school day back. It is the student’s responsibility to meet with the teacher to schedule a make-up opportunity for quizzes, tests and labs. Please understand that it may not always be possible for a student to be given a remediation session to re-teach missed material.

For students in grades 6, 7, and 8 who request schoolwork due to a family trip or similar reason, the following will apply:

1. Students should take all materials and related items with them. 2. They should check the Middle School webpage for grade level homework

assignments. 3. All assignments other than those requiring a handout given during the absence will

be due on the day a student returns to school. Handout assignments, quizzes, tests, and labs must be made up by the end of the third school day back. It is the student’s responsibility to meet with the teacher to schedule a make-up opportunity for quizzes, tests and labs. Please understand that it may not always be possible for a student to be given a remediation session to re-teach missed material.

EXCUSED FROM THE BUILDING The school is responsible for your whereabouts during the school day. Your safety is

important. Your parent/guardian assumes that you are in school and you should be in class unless they wish you to be excused (for legal reasons only). EXPECTATIONS

1. If a student needs to leave the building, he/she must have authorization, which can be procured in the following manner:

a. A pass from the school nurse for medical or health reasons. b. A pass from the Principal. c. An excuse from home brought in before 8:15 a.m. and authorized by the

office as a legal excuse which is then given to the homeroom teacher. The excuse should contain the same information listed above.

2. When a student leaves the building, he/she must sign out in the office.

Picking Students Up for Appointments If you need to pick up your child during the school day for a doctor appointment/early dismissal, please send a note in with your student indicating who will be picking them up. Anyone picking up a student is required to show photo identification to ensure your child’s safety.

TRUANCY

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Most parents assume that when they send their child to school, the child will be responsible enough to attend.

A person who is not in attendance at school, but his/her parent/guardian believes he/she to be in school is truant. EXPECTATIONS

1. Students must attend school daily, unless they have a written excuse from a parent. CONSEQUENCES

1. A student who is truant or cuts a class will receive a zero for any quiz or test given that day.

2. A student found to be truant from school may be assigned In-School Suspension. 3. A student found to be truant from school on repeated instances may be assigned for

a period up to five days on in-school suspension. This will be up to the discretion of the Building Principal who will consider the circumstances and severity of the incident.

STUDENT INELIGIBILITY - TBD

Assump�ons:

The school’s foremost responsibility is the academic educa�on of its students. A secondary goal is to provide ac�vi�es for student par�cipa�on such as dances, student council, drama, sports, proms, student parking and other social opportuni�es which make the school experience a more enjoyable and rewarding one as well as foster training, leadership, ci�zenship, and social responsibility.

Expecta�ons: Each student will behave in a manner which represents himself/herself in a posi�ve fashion. In order to take part in extracurricular ac�vi�es, a student must first be successful in the classroom. A student shall be declared ineligible to par�cipate in, or to observe, any extracurricular ac�vi�es if any of the following condi�ons exist: 1. A student a GPA of TBD

(a) based on the five week interim report of the first marking period or (b) as indicated by a report card at the end of each ten week marking period.

2. When the principal or his/her designee determines the need based on: a. Poor discipline b. Poor a�endance c. Excessive tardiness d. Lack of responsibility in mee�ng school/district requirements, e.g., not returning or paying for lost books, locks, equipment, etc.

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Removal from Ineligibility: - TBD

Students who are ineligible due to academic performance (failure of two or more subjects) shall remain ineligible for the remainder of the quarter but may par�cipate in any ac�vity, club or sport if they stay three 10th periods each week for remedia�on. All three of these must be with a teacher of a class in which the student is failing. This will be monitored on a weekly basis. Furthermore, it is understood that the teacher will only sign off for a student if they are mee�ng the following criteria:

A. Students arrive to 10th period ON TIME and stay un�l 10th period has officially ended as signified by the 10th period bell.

B. The student puts forth a genuine effort to complete all work that is given to him/her by the teacher. If a student has no work and/or is up to date with his or her work, he/she will be expected to work on any addi�onal assignments provided to him/her, as the teacher feels is beneficial to his/her future academic success.

C. Students are required to bring the green “sign-off sheet” with them to the 10th period. Teachers are expected to sign-off on the sheets at the end of the period that the student stayed. There is no expecta�on that teachers will sign-off for a student the next day, or later in the week.

D. Students must be well behaved during the en�rety of the 10th period; students who cause a disrup�on will not receive a signature from the teacher.

In the event of student/staff absences from school, or truncated school weeks due to weather or holidays, the determina�on of whether to release a student from ineligibility will be made by the building principal or his/her designee. Students placed on ineligibility by the principal or his/her designee shall remain so for the period designated by the principal.

Par�cipa�on Requirements Related to School A�endance: A student who arrives at school a�er 10:00 a.m., without a note from a physician or prior approval from the building principal or his/her designee, may not par�cipate in extracurriculars/athle�cs on that day. A student absent on the day of an ac�vity who has not made prior arrangements in advance with the principal or his/her designee may not par�cipate in, or observe, that day’s ac�vity. If a student is absent or reports to school a�er 10:00 a.m. on a Friday, that student remains ineligible un�l the next day that school is in session. If the absence/tardy occurs on a Friday

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prior to school recess/break, the student’s ineligibility status will be at the discre�on of the building principal.

CLASSROOM BEHAVIOR

1. A healthy learning environment requires that students be polite and cooperative with classmates, teachers, and other staff.

2. If a student is not interested in the lesson, he does not have the right to disrupt the lesson so that others are unable to learn.

EXPECTATIONS

1. All students are to be polite and cooperative. 2. Treat all others and their property with respect. 3. Follow the teacher’s directions the first time. 4. Be prepared for class. 5. Be seated at the bell. 6. Do not chew gum. 7. Wait for dismissal by the teacher.

CONSEQUENCES

1. Initial disruption(s) will be handled by your teacher. 2. Continued disruptions will result in the assignment of detentions and additional

home contacts. Students failing to report to detention as assigned will receive additional penalties.

3. Frequent classroom disruptions by students will result in suspension and home contact made requesting a parental conference with the Principal.

CAFETERIA BEHAVIOR

1. It is expected that all students will act in an orderly way during their lunch time. 2. There is a closed lunch policy and students may not leave during lunch period. 3. Students may not order lunches and have them delivered to the school. 4. Any exceptions to the above must be approved by the Administration.

EXPECTATIONS

1. There is to be no horseplay, shouting, throwing of food or popping of milk cartons. Garbage placed on the floor not only ruins the surface but also results in an unpleasant atmosphere for individuals who must use the cafeteria later.

2. All students are requested to pick up their own waste materials and place them in the proper receptacles.

3. A recess period will be provided every day for 20 minutes prior to or after lunch. Students are expected to follow the General Expectations mentioned above and stay within the recess area.

CONSEQUENCES

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1. Assignment of detention for unacceptable behavior; e.g. lunch detention table. 2. Assignment of lunch in another room for a period of time.

BUS BEHAVIOR 1. The safety during the transportation of students to and from school is of prime

importance. All students should arrive safely at their destination, and no student wishes to be held responsible for injury to others.

2. It is a privilege to ride the bus to school, and therefore, privileges can be taken away.

3. The bus is an extension of the school, and therefore, all school expectations apply. 4. Bus passes will be completed and issued by the extra period teacher. Students who

arrive by bus are not permitted to leave the school ground prior to the beginning of school.

EXPECTATIONS

1. All students will be warned about changes in appropriate behavior, and parents will be contacted.

2. Students will be treated under existing school rules. 3. Students who arrive by bus are not permitted to leave the school ground prior to the

beginning of school. 4. Failure to cooperate will result in the suspension of the bus riding privilege.

STUDENT DRESS CODE

All students are expected to give proper attention to personal cleanliness and to dress appropriately for school and school functions. Students and their parents have the primary responsibility for acceptable student dress and appearance. Teachers and all other district personnel should exemplify and reinforce acceptable student dress and help students develop an understanding of appropriate appearance in the school setting. EXPECTATIONS 1. Be safe, appropriate, and not disrupt or interfere with the educational process.

2. Recognize that extremely brief clothing, which in any way reveals any undergarments or cleavage of any kind, are not appropriate.

3. Include footwear at all times. Footwear that is deemed a safety hazard will not be allowed.

4. Not include items that are vulgar, obscene, libelous, or denigrate to others on account of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, gender, sexual orientation or disability.

5. Not promote and/or endorse the illegal use of alcohol, tobacco or illegal drugs and/or encourage other illegal or violent activities.

6. Not denote or represent gang affiliation such as bandanas, beads, jewelry or other indicators and/or symbols intended expressly so.

7. Masks Link to mask wearing protocol.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ZIKNVuqHHr8cBRqctVmhm_4CzEplEkPGQclpWqRi1zA/edit

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A general note to determine if something is appropriate for school is to determine if it has an educational purpose. Therefore, items such as sunglasses, chains, or jewelry with spikes are not items with an educational purpose and are not allowed during the regular school day. Response to Violations of Student Dress Code Students who violate the student dress code shall be required to modify their appearance by covering or removing the offending item and, if necessary or practical, replacing it with an acceptable item. Any student who refuses to do so shall be subject to discipline, up to and including assignment to an Alternative Learning Site for the day. Any student who repeatedly fails to comply with the dress code shall be subject to further discipline up to and including out-of-school suspension, and/or a Superintendent’s Hearing. When appropriate, a referral will be made to the student’s counselor for follow-up. Special occasions such as graduation, concerts, National Honor Society inductions, etc. will require more formal attire. Parents will be notified of specific standards prior to the event. Students who violate the student dress code shall be required to modify their appearance by covering or removing the offending item, and, if necessary or practical, replacing it with an acceptable item. Any student who refuses to do so shall be subject to discipline, up to and including assignment to an alternative learning site for the day. Any student who repeatedly fails to comply with the dress code shall be subject to further discipline up to and including out-of-school suspension and/or a superintendent hearing.

BULLYING, HARASSMENT, AND INTIMIDATION The Board of Education recognizes that bullying (including cyber bullying), harassment (sexual or otherwise), and hazing are abusive and at times illegal behavior that harms victims and negatively impacts the school environment by creating an environment of fear, distrust, intimidation and intolerance. The Board further recognizes that preventing bullying, harassment, and hazing in schools is essential to ensure a healthy, non-discriminatory environment in which students can learn and employees can work productively. The Board is committed to providing an educational environment that promotes respect, dignity, and equality and that is free from all forms of harassment. To this end, the Board condemns and strictly prohibits bullying and/or harassment based on a person’s actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender or gender expression, as well as any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state and/or local law. All forms of bullying and harassment are prohibited on school grounds, school buses, and at all school-sponsored activities and events that take place at locations outside the district. Reporting Complaints

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In order for the Board to effectively enforce this policy and to take prompt corrective measures, it is essential that all victims of bullying, harassment and/or hazing and persons with knowledge of these issues report the matter immediately. In compliance with the Dignity for All Students Act (2012), the Board has appointed a Dignity Act Coordinator, who will be responsible for receiving and initiating prompt investigation of all complaints. For the 2020-2021 school year, that person is: Mr. Ryan Naccarato at [email protected] Investigation/Resolution After investigation, the District may seek discipline against any students or staff in violation of the District’s policies or law. All complainants and those who participate in the investigation of a complaint of bullying, harassment and/or hazing have the right to be free from retaliation of any kind. To the extent possible, all complaints will be treated in a confidential manner, though limited disclosure may be necessary to complete a thorough investigation. The complainant will be notified of the outcome of the investigation.

USE OF CELL PHONES AND OTHER ELECTRONIC OR

COMMUNICATION DEVICES

The Coxsackie-Athens Central School District recognizes that the use of cell phones and other electronic communication devices is a regular part of the lives of our students and their families. It is important, however, that we work together to balance this with the safety and well-being of all students while on the school campus, as well as insure that we preserve the integrity of our academic and instructional environments.

Cell phones and other electronic communication devices are prohibited from being used

from 8:05 until 3:09. Students may use a personal communication device with permission from a staff member for educational purposes only.

Wireless communication devices with photographic capabilities are prohibited from

being used for the purpose of taking photographs or recording images during the school day, unless proper authorization has been approved. Students who use such devices to record or take pictures of any argument, fight, or other altercation in the school environment will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including placement in ISS and/or out-of-school suspension. Response to Violations of Policy for Use of Cell Phones and Other Electronic Devices First Offense: Device will be confiscated by the classroom teacher until the end of the period and the teacher will make a parent/guardian contact to inform them of the matter. Second Offense:

mailto:[email protected]

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Device will be confiscated by the classroom teacher and turned in to the Main Office. Teacher will assign detention, contact a parent/guardian, and the student will pick the item up at the end of the day from a building administrator. Thereafter: Device will be confiscated by the classroom teacher, who will make a parent contact and refer the student to a building administrator for follow-up. Items will need to be picked up in the Main Office by a parent/guardian, and students will be subject to progressive discipline at the administrative level, up to and including placement in ALS. The district may modify the response on a case by case basis based upon the individual circumstances of the violat i on.

PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION

Intimate behavior in public is not considered to be in good taste, and is detrimental to the reputation of the students involved. It may be offensive to others.

This type of behavior is inappropriate for a Coxsackie-Athens student. Disciplinary action ranging from reprimands to notification of parents are possible actions that may be taken.

Examples of violations and corresponding consequences may include, but are not limited to:

● Inappropriate displays of affection; hugging, kissing, touching, etc. First Offense:

● Verbal warning ● Possible contact of parent/guardian

Each Offense Thereafter:

● Contact parent/guardian ● Will be treated as insubordination

CONDUCT IN SCHOOL CORRIDORS Students have five minutes between periods to pass from one class to another. They are

expected to maintain social distancing in the corridors and on the stairways, passing promptly from class to class without loitering. Running, pushing, shouting, whistling, scuffling or any other form of disturbance in the corridors constitute offensive behavior at any time. It is especially important that the corridors be clear and quiet during class periods.

LIBRARY USAGE AND RULES The library is considered the hub of the learning wheel and provides students with many

opportunities to research, read advanced subject matter, and read for enjoyment. The library is not to be considered a social center or study hall for students “who have nothing to do.” Students may use the library during an academic class or study hall if the teacher gives a signed Library Pass which notes the reason for library use.

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(?) BORROWING AND RETURNING BOOKS

Books are loaned for a two week period and may be renewed; assuming no one else has requested the same title. It is the responsibility of the student to return library books on time. Students with overdue items may not borrow additional items. Cumulative overdue notices are prepared monthly and students are notified in their homeroom if they have outstanding materials. After two homeroom notices, letters are sent home appraising parents of the situation. Library privileges are suspended and a request for payment is made when materials are late by more than a month.

LOST/DAMAGED LIBRARY BOOKS

AND TEXTBOOKS (?) If a book is lost or damaged while signed out to a student, it is the student’s

responsibility to pay for the book. Students will not be allowed to participate in extracurricular field trips if there are

outstanding book fines. Students are responsible for textbooks loaned to them. Lost books will be paid for at the

office. When the student shows a receipt, he is entitled to another book. Fines will be assessed for damaged books.

USE OF PERSONAL LEARNING DEVICES AND COMPUTER LABORATORIES

The Coxsackie-Athens Central School District is committed to instructional technology and its use in providing important resources to our students. It is expected that students will respect the equipment and treat it properly. In addition to the application of normal school rules and behavior expectations, adherence to the following guidelines is required:

1. Students are responsible for the cleanliness of their workstation/work area- monitors

should be returned to the beginning screen, papers should be cleared from printers, and all diskettes removed from drives, if applicable.

2. Unauthorized tampering with Personal Learning Devices (PLD) equipment will result in suspension from use of such equipment for a period to be determined by the building principal, up to a permanent loss of privileges. Additional disciplinary action may be applied.

3. Students who damage PLD equipment will be expected to pay for necessary repairs or, if required, or replacement of such equipment. Charges will be at current market value.

4. Eating and drinking (including gum chewing) around PLD equipment or in computer labs is prohibited.

5. Students caught accessing other students’ work will be subject to immediate course failure, if applicable, or other disciplinary action, as determined by the building principal.

Ref: #5325 Adopted by Board of Education Date: 08/19/97

SKATEBOARDING, IN-LINE SKATING, ROLLER SKATING AND

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RECREATIONAL BICYCLING ON SCHOOL PROPERTY Skateboarding, in-line skating, roller skating and recreational bicycling are prohibited on

all properties owned by the Coxsackie-Athens Central School District between 7:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. during the school year and when the Summer Programs are held, and during any activities when the building and /or grounds are in use.

At no time may tennis courts, running track, handicap ramps or other similar areas be used. Furthermore, the building of ramps, runways, or other obstacles is also prohibited.

Individuals using school district property for the above purposes do so at their own risk and are expected to wear appropriate protective devices during all activity, including a helmet for bicycling and a helmet, knee pads, and elbow pads for skateboarding. Individuals using school district property for the above purposes shall not do so in any manner which endangers others.

All persons using these means of conveyance will be subject to the Code of Conduct of the district, including the possibility of disciplinary action. Ref: #1550 Reviewed by Board of Education Adopted by Board of Education Date: 04/02 Date: 8/20/91 (Policy 9:12) Revised by Board of Education Revised by Board of Education Date: 11/99 Date: 05/07 Adopted by Board of Education Reviewed by Board of Education Date: 12/21/99 Date 5/16

POSITIVE RECOGNITION PROGRAMS (TBD) Honor Roll and High Honor Roll. Honor Roll and High Honor Roll students are recognized in the local newspaper and are given a special privilege pass. Student of the Month/Student of the Quarter . The Student of the Month and Quarter programs recognizes students who deserve recognition for their character, leadership, service, citizenship and academic achievement. Students are recognized in the newspaper and at monthly assemblies. Coxsackie-Athens National Junior Honor Society . Beginning in grade 6, students with a 90% average for quarters 1, 2 and 3 are invited to apply for membership in the Coxsackie-Athens National Junior Honor Society. Membership is an honor bestowed upon a student. Selection for membership is by a Faculty Council and is based on outstanding scholarship, leadership, service, character, and citizenship. Once selected, members have a responsibility to continue to demonstrate these qualities.

eSchool Parent Portal . Grades, assignments and class information are posted on eSchool Data Gradebook weekly. If you do not have an eSchool Parent Portal account for your Middle School child, please contact the main office or counseling office.

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Restricted Study Hall . Students who are failing one or more subjects on the interim or quarter grade report are not permitted to leave the study hall unless they have a pass from a subject teacher. The purpose of the program is to encourage students to use the study hall as a tool to complete homework and to study for upcoming tests and quizzes. Students need a pass from a subject teacher to be excused to go to the library or computer labs.

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