ghs handbook

8/3/2019 GHS Handbook

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41 Morrill Avenue

Gorham, ME 04038

Phone: 207-222-1100

FAX: 207-839-7742

Website: www.goghs.org

Guidance: 207-222-1102

Athletics: 207-222-1099

Attendance: 207-222-1100

School Nurse: 207-222-1105

GSNP (Food Services): 207-222-1375Adult Education: 207-222-1095

Superintendents Office: 207-222-1000

GORHAMHIGH SCHOOL

2011-2012


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Gorham High School

Mission and Expectations

MISSION

The mission of Gorham High School is to provide a variety of

educational opportunities in a safe, positive environment. Our

aim is that each graduate thinks critically and creatively,

communicates effectively, reads and listens for understanding,

solves problems, acts as a responsible citizen and aspires to

and realizes individual goals.

ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS

1. Students will use the skills and strategies of the readingprocess to comprehend, interpret, evaluate, and appreciate

what they have read.

2. Students will write correctly, using conventions of

standard written and spoken English.

3. Students will work effectively in connection with

research.

4. Students will understand and apply the concepts of data

analysis.

5. Students will understand and apply concepts of

probability.

6. Students will understand and apply algebraic concepts.

7. Students will be able to make accurate observations and

measurements using tools (instruments) and units.

13. Students will understand the rights and responsibilities of

civic life.

14. Students will understand the constitutional principles and

the democratic foundations of the political institutions of

the United States.

15. Students will understand the political relationships

between the United States and other nations.

16. Students will develop historical knowledge of major

events, people, and enduring themes in the United States,

and throughout the world.

17. Students will apply the design process to develop a

project and redesign for improvement.

18. Students will utilize technological tools, materials and

processes to solve problems.

19. Students will acquire the knowledge and the skills to

design and implement a personal fitness program that

leads to a healthy life style.

20. Students will participate in a variety of lifelong fitness

activities that may become useful later in life.

21. Students will explore creative expression through

participation in visual or performing art experiences.

22. Students will understand health promotion and disease

prevention concepts.

23. Students will understand how to reduce their health risks

through the practice of healthy behaviors


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CODE OF CONDUCT(CODE JICDA)

POLICY STATEMENT

The Gorham School Committee is committed to maintaining a supportive and orderly school environment in which

students may receive and staff may deliver a quality education without disruption or interference and in which students may

develop as ethical, responsible and involved citizens.The School Committee believes that each member of the school community should take responsibility for his/her own

behavior. To that end, the School Committee recognizes the need to model and teach ethical and responsible behavior, to define

unacceptable student conduct and its consequences, and ensure that discipline is administered appropriately.

Having considered the input of staff, parents, students, and the community, the School Committee adopts this Code of

Conduct (Code).

Community Core ValuesWith rights come responsibilities. Members of the school community are expected to demonstrate ethical and

responsible behavior consistent with its core values. Such conduct is fundamental to a supportive, safe, and orderly school

environment and a civil society. The Gorham School Committee has established five core values.

RESPECTA person who is respectful of oneself, others and the environment

HONESTY

A person who is honest in all endeavors

COURAGE

A person who is courageous in the face of ethical challenges

Does Not Does

Verbally abuse self or others. Demonstrate polite and appropriate

Physically abuse self or others. interactions with others.

Cause damage to property. Value themselves and others.

Care for surroundings.

Does Not Does

Plagiarize the work of others. Seek to tell the truth.

Engage in deceptive, blaming or Accept ownership and

sneaky behavior. responsibility for actions and work.

Take the property of others. Maintain trust in all relationships.

Does Not Does


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Gorham High School - Daily Schedule 2011 - 2012

GRADE REPORTINGStudents will receive grades each quarter. The marking terms at Gorham High School for the 2011-2012 Academic Year are:

QUARTER 1.....Aug 29 Nov 4 Grades Available: Week of November 21

QUARTER 2.....Nov 7 - Jan 20 Grades Available: Week of February 6

QUARTER 3.....Jan 23 March 30 Grades Available: Week of April 23

QUARTER 4.....Apr 2 - June 15 Grades Available: Week of June 25

GRADE EQUIVALENTS

99 100 = A+ 95 98 = A 93 94 = A- 91 92 = B+ 87 90 = B 85 86 = B-

82 84 = C+ 78 81 = C 75 77 = C- 74 = D+ 71 73 = D 70 = D

7:50- 8:38 Period 1

8:42 9:27 Period 2

9:31 10:16 Period 3

10:22 11:07 Period 4

11:07 12:22 Period 5

11:07 11:32 Lunch A

(11:37 12:22 Class)

11:32 11:57 Lunch B

11:57 12:22 Lunch C

(11:12 11:57 Class)

12:26 1:11 Period 6

1:15 2:00 Period 7

Monday, Tuesday, Friday

7:50 9:18 Period 1

9:22 10:50 Period 3

10:50 12:05 Period 5

10:50 11:15 Lunch A

(11:19 12:05 Class)

11:15 11:40 Lunch B

11:40 12:05 Lunch C

(10:54 11:40 Class)

12:08 12:28 Advisory

12:32 2:00 Period 6

Wednesday

7:50 9:18 Period 2

9:22 9:42 Advisory

9:45 11:13 Period 4

11:13 12:28 Period 5

11:13 11:38 Lunch A

(11:42 12:28 Class)

11:38 12:03 Lunch B12:03 12:28 Lunch C

(11:17 12:03 Class)

12:32 2:00 Period 7

Thursday


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Community Service: Community service is not required to earn a diploma, but each student must have accumulated twenty (20)

community service hours in order to participate in Graduation ceremonies.

STUDENT SERVICES

ADVISORY

The purpose of Advisory is to connect every student to an adult in the school. Students will maintain the same advisor fortheir high school career.

GUIDANCE DEPARTMENT

Professionally certified staff are available to help students and parents with personal, educational, and vocational issues. If

there are questions regarding scheduling, standardized testing, career planning, student records, personal issues, or further

schooling, students and parents should make an appointment by calling 222-1102.

HEALTH SERVICES

The school nurse is available for routine testing and for emergencies. In case of accidents at school, the school nurse will

be called in. In extreme emergencies, the student may be taken directly to the hospital by appropriate personnel. Parents will be

contacted in all cases. Students who are taking prescribed medication or have special medical needs that arise during the schoolyear should notify the school nurse as soon as possible at 222-1105.

LIBRARY

The school library provides educational resources for students and staff. It is open from 7:30 AM to 3:00 PM Monday -

Thursday. The library is open on Friday from 7:30 AM to 2:20 PM.

Library cards are issued each semester. Students must have them to go to the library during a study period. The cards may

be used once a day. Students will not receive library cards if they have materials which are more than two weeks overdue, or if

there is an unpaid fine. Students are expected to work quietly in the library. A student's library card may be revoked for

disciplinary reasons.

Books are arranged according to the Dewey Decimal System. Reference books and current periodicals do not circulateexcept upon the request of a teacher. Books may be checked out for two weeks, with renewals allowed as needed. The fine for

overdue materials is 5 per day.

Reserved books (set aside by a teacher for use in course work) are to be used in the library when school is in session.

Unless otherwise specified, reserved books may be borrowed overnight if checked out at the end of the school day and returned

before school starts the next day. The fine for overdue reserved materials is $1.00 per day. If a student loses library materials,

the student must pay the current list price of the book. No food or drink is allowed in the library, except water.

RESPONSE TO INTERVENTION (RTI)

The RTI team is led by the Instructional Strategist and provides an intervention structure for students to enhance academic

progress.

SOCIAL WORKER AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR

These individuals provide individual and group opportunities to meet/discuss social and emotional issues, and mediation.

STUDENT REVIEW TEAM


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as long as they do not become a disruption. Should a student need to be removed from a course for the remainder of the school

year, he/she will be assigned to a study hall and expected to attend.

CHILD FIND

The Gorham School Department has the responsibility to locate, evaluate and identify all exceptional children between the

ages of three and 20. Parents, relatives, physicians and other persons who are aware of a child who may require services are asked

to contact Katie Hawes, Special Services Director, at 222-1002. The Gorham School Department provides a broad range of specialeducation and support services. These services extend from supported placement in the regular classroom through monitoring,

consultation, resource services, composite services, self-contained services, to supportive services in speech/language, occupational

and physical therapy, psychological evaluation and counseling, and adapted physical education. If you know of anyone between the

ages of three and 20 who resides in Gorham and in need of Special Education and supportive assistance or referral services, contact

Special Services Director, Katie Hawes at 222-1002.

STUDENT GOVERNMENT

Student Council: The representative group for the students at Gorham High School is the Student Council. The Council represents

the student body in its contact with the administration, faculty, and the public. Its membership includes representatives from each of

the four classes. Membership on the Council is a significant honor at Gorham High School. Students interested in working on

Student Council activities should contact a Student Council member.

Class Officers: Each class elects a slate of officers each year to oversee class activities such as Homecoming. Officers work with

the class advisors to promote class spirit and school spirit.

School Council: This organization is a student/faculty group that exists to hear and act on proposals for school change. Ten

student members are elected by their peers to serve.

STUDENT ACTIVITIESGorham High School is committed to a diversified activities program. There are many opportunities for students to become

involved in the school community. Groups that are active include:

ATHLETICS

The Athletic Department at Gorham High School offers many opportunities for students to participate in intramural and

interscholastic sports.

INTRAMURALS: Basketball, Volleyball

INTERSCHOLASTIC SPORTS:

Boys: Cheering; Cross Country; Golf; Soccer; Basketball; Football; Indoor Track; Ice Hockey; Baseball; Outdoor Track;Tennis; Lacrosse.

Girls: Cheering: Cross Country; Field Hockey; Golf; Soccer; Volleyball; Basketball; Indoor Track; Ice Hockey; Softball;

Outdoor Track; Tennis; Lacrosse.

ELIGIBILITY


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! The student will write an essay illustrating his/her interest in NHS.


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ATTENDANCE

ATTENDANCE PROTOCOL

Introduction

At Gorham High School, we value class attendance. It is a vital piece of a students academic success. When

students miss class, they lose integral amounts of classroom participation and instruction, which cannot be replaced. All

students are expected to be in school and in their regularly assigned classes and study halls every day. Students who miss

more classes than this policy stipulates will not receive credit for the course. Responsibility for attendance rests with

students and their parents.

Any adult having a person of compulsory-school age under their guidance shall compel the person to attend school.

Maine Law Title 20-A Section 5001-A requires that: Every child between the 7th

and 17th

anniversary of his/her birth

shall attend a public day school during the time it is in regular session.

Attendance Policy

Bothexcused and unexcused absences are entered into the numerical count of accrued absences.

Students, who are absent from a course for more than 15 days in full-year courses, may pass the course but will notreceive credit for graduation for that course.

Students who are absent from a course for more than 8 days in a semester course may pass the course, but will not

receive credit towards graduation for that course.

The attendance failure will be administered at the end of the semester for a semester course and at the end of the

year for a year course. A student who is failing the course will receive the failing grade. A student who is passing a

course will receive no credit for the course. Example: English 9 a student earns a grade of eighty but receives no

credit because of sixteen absences. The student may take English 10 next year but will need to make up the lost

English 9 credit. It is possible to request that particular absences be waived under extreme circumstances. Such absences considered

waiveable include but are not limited to: court appointments, legal confinement, religious observances, State

testing, death in immediate family, school related field trips or activities and suspensions from school. Absences,

which are considered non waiveable include but are not limited to: Illness (unless emergency and/or medical

determination not to attend school), college visitations, and family trips.

A student must pick up a waiver form in the Assistant Principals office if he/she wishes to have any absenceswaived. Only completed waiver forms along with the appropriate documentation will be considered.

Absences

Students who are absent for at least four periods during a seven period day or two periods during a block day are

considered absent for the day. If students are absent unexcused for at least this amount of time, they are considered truantfor the day. Students who are truant will receive a Friday detention.

Excused Absences

Maine State Law states that the following absences are excused:


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ABSENCES AND TARDIES

If you are absent from school:

1. Have a parent call school as soon as possible the day of the absence by calling 222-1100.

2. If excused, it is the student's responsibility to obtain make-up work and complete all missed assignments within the time period arranged bythe teacher. Work not made up in time will be averaged as zeros by the teacher. In the case of a long illness of three days or more, parents

may contact the Guidance Office for assistance in obtaining assignments.

3. If unexcused, no make-up work will be allowed and zeros will be averaged into the students grades. Teachers will notify parent/guardianfor excessive, unexcused absences. Disciplinary action may result.

4. Students will not be allowed to attend any school activities on the day they are absent, excused or unexcused (except for verified

appointments). Students should not be in the vicinity of the school or any other school/area in the system sponsoring a school activity of

any sort. Planned absences for personal or educational purposes must be approved in the Main Office by Administration three days in

advance.

Procedure to follow:

A. Parent must call the Main Office to inform the school that the student will be absent.

B. The parent completes and signs a Trip Form telling when the student will be absent and where the student will be.

C. The student takes the Trip Form around to teachers to be signed.

D. The signed Trip Form is given to Main Office personnel.

E. Administration approves or disapproves the absence.

F. *NOTE: Babysitting, hunting, employment, transportation problems, shopping, running errands, among others, are not excusable

absences. The school determines whether a tardy or absence is considered excused.

If you are tardy to school (the school day begins at 7:50 AM):

1. Have a parent call.

2. Students tardy to the beginning of school must report to the Main Office for an admittance slip.3. All tardies to school are considered unexcused. Parents/guardians need to call the school to provide information as to why the student is

tardy. If a parent has not called in before the student arrives or if the reason does not comply with state law the tardy will remain unexcused and

subject to consequences. Classroom teachers will assign consequences for tardies to class and/or missed classes because of unexcused lateness

to school If a tardy is unexcused no make up work will be allowed


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missed any part of a school day. (Any absences, tardies and/or dismissals eliminate students from perfect attendance status.)

EMERGENCY SHEETS

All students must have an emergency sheet on file in the Main Office. This information is used in the event of an emergency when parents,

relatives, or neighbors may need to be reached quickly. DISMISSAL FROM SCHOOL FOR ILLNESS OR OTHER EMERGENCIES

REQUIRES THE USE OF THE EMERGENCY SHEET INFORMATION ONLY. WE CANNOT RELEASE STUDENTS TO PEOPLE

UNLESS THEY ARE LISTED ON THE EMERGENCY SHEET. Students and parents should advise the Main Office if any changes in thisinformation occur.

GENERAL SCHOOL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS (See policy on pg. 18)

ASSEMBLIES

Assemblies will be scheduled throughout the school year. As assemblies and or pep rallies occur during the school day, students are expected to

remain in school during scheduled assemblies or pep rallies. An alternative room is available should students not desire to attend the assembly or

pep rally. Dismissing a student merely as a result of a scheduled assembly is not permitted. Students are expected to follow these rules:

1. Students must remain in assemblies until the program ends.

2. Students should be on time, respectful, appreciative, and attentive to all participants and speakers.

3. Students should applaud at appropriate times. Shouting and whistling are inappropriate.

4. No hats, hoods, book bags, cell phones, laptops, gum chewing, food, or drink are allowed in MPAC.

ATTENDANCE (See Attendance Protocol on pg. 7)

BEFORE-SCHOOL PROCEDURES

Students who drive to school MAY NOT remain in cars once they arrive at school. Once students arrive to school, they need to enter the

school in a timely fashion. Students will not be permitted to loiter around outside the building anywhere including Robie Woods, Morrill Avenue,

the gully, fields or neighboring lawns. Once students arrive onto school property, a parent/guardian must inform the office PRIOR to the

student leaving school grounds. This includes when students are dropped off via the school bus.

BUSES

Gorham High School students riding school department buses to and from school are expected to behave in an orderly fashion. Bus drivers will

report any inappropriate behavior to the transportation director who may call the high school administration for assistance. Parents will be notified

through a bus slip that is issued by the bus driver and given to the student. Riding school department buses is a privilege, which may be revoked.

CLOSED CAMPUS

Because of issues of liability, GHS is a closed campus. Students are not allowed to leave the school building during the day unless the Main

Office receives prior permission from the parent/guardian to do so This includes the parking lot dismissals for illness and appointments


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Office Detentions are assigned by a teacher or an administrator. Office detentions may be assigned whenever students are sent from class for

inappropriate or repetitive behavior, for breaking school rules, for skipping study halls or classes, or for failing to serve classroom detentions.

Students scheduled for a detention may not participate in any school-related activity during that time.

Friday Detentions are assigned by a teacher or an administrator. Friday detentions may be assigned whenever students are sent from class for

inappropriate or repetitive behavior, for breaking school rules, or for failing to serve Office detentions. Friday detentions are held from 2:15 to

5:30 PM at GHS. Failure to serve a Friday detention will result in an immediate 2-day In-School suspension. Students who are scheduled for a

Friday detention may not participate in any school-related activity during that time. Employment and/or athletic obligations are not valid excusesto be exempt from a Friday detention. Students are expected to bring academic work with them and to use the time productively.

Detention Rules

Detention begins promptly at 2:15 PM. Office detention ends at 3:00 PM; Friday detention ends at 5:30 PM.

Late students will be assigned an additional detention.

- Students must bring reading or writing materials with them, and must write/read the entire time.

- Students may not eat, sleep, talk, or listen to music listening devices while in detention.

- Students removed from detention will not receive credit for any time served.

- Students will be given 24-hour notice (if needed) for serving an Office detention. Athletic events or work are not permissible reasons to

be excused from Office detention.- Skipping Office detention will result in assignment to Friday detention.

- Changes in detention date must be requested by a parent/guardian 24 hours in advance through the Main Office by phone or in person.

" SUSPENSION

Suspension may be In-School or out-of-school, pending infraction and administrative decision. Suspension from school may be from one day to

10 days. For major infractions, the school administrator may make referrals to the School Committee for suspension from school beyond the 10

days allowable. In these cases the student is responsible for obtaining make-up work while on suspension or upon return through the Guidance

Office. In all cases the parent or guardian will be notified. In order for the student to return to school, one or both parents may be required to meet

with an administrator to discuss the school's concerns regarding the behavior. Generally, suspension is used to remove students who are disrupting

the safety and order of the school, interfering with the educational process, using abusive language, or are chronic offenders. Chronic offenders

subject themselves to progressive discipline. If a storm day occurs during any suspension, the suspension will be carried to the next day or series

of days.

Due Process

Minimal due process procedures will be followed when an administrator suspends a student for any period of time up to a maximum of ten (10)

days. These procedures include:

1. NOTICE: Informing the student verbally or in writing of the charge against him/her

2. EVIDENCE: Informing the student of the basis of the charge

3. HEARING: The student is given the opportunity to tell his/her side of the story. The administrator then makes the decision.

Students on suspension may not be on school grounds or attend any school-sponsored activity.

DRESS CODE


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This includes texting. The first time the phone is confiscated, it will be returned to the student at the end of the day. The second time the phone is

confiscated, students will receive an Office detention. For the third and all subsequent infractions, students will receive a Friday detention. If a

student refuses to relinquish their cell phone, a Friday detention will be assigned. For emergencies, parents can get messages to students through

the Main Office.

Music Listening Devices at School -- iPods, MP3 Players, Games, other electronic devices

Students are not to have music listening devices with speakers in school. Students may listen to music listening devices during lunch, before

school, and after school only. These items may be played during class time at the discretion of the teacher. Any infraction may result inconfiscation of item(s).

EMAIL

Students are expected to check their FirstClass email daily and respond to messages from staff members.

FIRE DRILLS

Fire drills, which are required by law, are important safety precautions. It is essential that when the first signal is given, everyone leaves the

building immediately. Students should assume that all fire alarms that ring in the building signal an actual fire. Students should make a point to

know the correct exit from each classroom. Directions for fire drill procedures are posted in each room.

FOOD/DRINK

Food and/or drink are allowed in the hallways. Food and drink may be permitted in classrooms only with individual teacher permission. Students

are expected to use the trash receptacles in the halls to dispose of any unwanted food or drink. Cafeteria vending machines are to be used only

during lunch periods and after school. Students may receive disciplinary action for failure to dispose of trash properly.

FUNDRAISING/SOLICITATION/ADVERTISING

Any type of fund raising/solicitation/advertising connected to the school requires administrative approval. Forms are available in the Main Office.

A staff member must supervise all such activities. Individual fundraising is not allowed. The promotion of for-profit business sales is also not

allowed.

HATS

Students may wear hats and hoods in the building, but must remove them in classes, study halls and the library unless allowed by the teacher. Hats

and hoods may not be worn in MPAC or for yearbook and school ID pictures.

LAPTOP COMPUTERS

All students will be issued a school laptop to support the academic program. Students are responsible for proper use and maintenance of the laptop.

An outline of disciplinary consequences for computer misuse can be found on page 17 of this handbook. Students are financially responsible for

any damage to or loss of their computer. The Gorham School Department offers elective insurance that will help defray costs associated with

computer damage or loss after deductibles are met.

LASER POINTERS

Laser pointers are not allowed in school or on school grounds. A laser pointer means any hand-held device that emits a visible light beam

amplified by the stimulated emission of radiation Laser pointers will be confiscated and returned to parents Police may be contacted


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Buses are provided free for all students who live more than one and a half miles from school. Students are encouraged to take advantage of this

service. Absence and tardiness resulting from choosing to use private transportation is not excusable. Vehicles driven by students must be

registered for road use. Lack of registration will result in notification to the police. Students are expected to adhere to all traffic laws and speed

limits while on school grounds and adjoining roadways.

PARKING

Student parking is a privilege at GHS. There is limited parking available. Seniors who wish to drive to school and park in the parking lot mustobtain a parking sticker from the office. Almost all parking spaces are assigned to faculty and seniors. The remaining spaces are available on a

first-come, first-served basis. Students who park illegally will receive a Office detention. Subsequent infractions may result in the vehicle being

towed at owner's expense. Cars that are parked on the light pole islands and other non-parking spaces are considered to be parked illegally, and

drivers are subject to disciplinary action described above. Parking privileges may be revoked at administrators discretion.

PLAGIARISM/CHEATING

Students are expected to be the sole author of their work. Any material taken from another's work, whether quoted or paraphrased, must be

properly noted as another's work and the source cited. Taking credit, or failing to give credit, for the work of another, in whole or in part, is

plagiarism. Using another person's working notes, unless specifically authorized by the teacher, is also plagiarism. Students who provide their

work to another student for use will also be considered guilty of plagiarism. Students found guilty of plagiarism will not receive credit for thework. Students may also receive additional penalties as outlined by departmental policies or individual teachers' policies. A meeting may also be

called involving the student, parent, teacher and school administrator to determine what additional steps should be taken. Other forms of cheating

will be handled in a similar manner.

PROGRESS/FAILURE REPORTS

Grade information will be regularly posted on the Infinite Campus parent portal. Mid-term progress reports and report cards will be posted on

Infinite Campus. Parents requesting that a report be sent home should contact the Guidance Office. Parents will be contacted by telephone or

email if their student is in danger of failing.

PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION

Our expectation is that students will conduct themselves appropriately while in school. Public displays of affection that include hugging, kissing,

touching, etc. are unacceptable. Faculty/Staff members may intervene as necessary, and the expectation is that the behavior will discontinue once

a warning has been issued.

SCHEDULE CHANGES

Students are strongly discouraged from making schedule changes during the school year. If it becomes necessary for a student to consider a

change in educational programming, the following procedure will be used:

1. Discuss it with the teacher and the counselor.

2. Have your parent contact the guidance counselor by phone or in writing, stating that they approve of the possibility of a schedule change.3. Make out an add-drop form with your counselor.

4. The student must remain in the present course until the change is finalized. The change is finalized when the counselor has signedand dated the lower right hand corner of the add-drop form.


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STUDY HALLS

Study halls are places where students can work quietly on their own. Students are not allowed to play cards during study halls. Students are to

arrive at study halls prepared to do school work. Skipping study halls will result in an Office detention. Study halls are considered part of the

academic day; therefore, attendance is mandatory. Passes to see other faculty/staff should be obtained in advance and brought to the study hall

teacher. A sign-out list will be kept by each study hall teacher.

TELEPHONES/TELEPHONE MESSAGESAll school telephones (including those in the classrooms) are business phones and not intended for student use. A telephone is provided in the

Main Office for student use only during his/her lunch period, or during a study hall. Emergency parent phone messages will be given to students.

TEXTBOOKS

Textbooks in good condition are loaned to students for their use during the school year. These textbooks are to be covered, kept clean, and

handled carefully. Students are responsible for these books. If a textbook is lost, a replacement book will be issued (if possible) only after the

original book is paid for. If the lost book is found, the student will be reimbursed. Before final exams can be taken, each textbook must be

returned in good condition or paid for. Ultimately, outstanding textbook debts must be settled before a student can participate in Graduation

exercises or receive his/her diploma.

VANDALISM

By state law, students/parents are liable for damage to school property by pupils. It is the expectation that students will take pride in and respect

the school building and grounds. Students will reimburse the school for any school property vandalized. Police referral may take place.

Restitution may take the form of work services provided to the school or community.

VISITORS

Only those adult visitors who have legitimate business at GHS will be allowed in the building. Visitors must check in and out of the building in

the Main Office. All visitors will be provided with an official GHS Visitors Badge and are expected to wear it while on GHS school grounds.

Students are not allowed to have friends or younger siblings visit or accompany them during the school day.

VOCATIONAL STUDENT EXPECTATIONS

Vocational students are allowed to attend Westbrook Regional Vocational Center (WRVC) and Portland Arts and Technology High School

(PATHS) as long as they are students in good standing at Gorham High School. If, for any reason, a vocational student is suspended or expelled

from Gorham, that individual will lose the privilege of attending vocational school as well.

Bus transportation is provided between GHS and PATHS and WRVC. Students who ride the vocational bus must enter GHS, PATHS or

WRVC and immediately report to their assigned area after arriving on school grounds.

Seniors and juniors may drive or ride with another student to PATHS or WRVC if they follow the required guidelines. Students

and a guardian must complete a permission form and return it to the Assistant Principals' office before driving or riding with another student. In

addition, a guardian must call the Main Office to verify the permission slip. Drivers will be required to show proof of a valid driver's license and

insurance.

Permission to drive or ride to vocational school may be revoked if a student forms a pattern of attendance issues and/or violates school

rules. Students who drive to WRVC or PATHS must arrive at vocational school or return to GHS by the time the Gorham bus is there; otherwise,

they will be considered late.


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basis.

OFF-CAMPUS MISBEHAVIOR

Students may be disciplined for off-campus misconduct if the behavior results in a negative, direct impact on the school, programs, other

students or staff. Appropriate consequences will apply.

SUMMARY OF CONSEQUENCES FOR INFRACTIONS (Includes, but is not limited to, the following):

Office Detentions: Students will serve an Office detention (2:15-3PM) for the following infractions: Disrespect, Excessive tardies to class and/or

school, Inappropriate attire, Inappropriate behavior, Insubordination, Leaving school building, Office referral, Unexcused absence from study hall

and/or class.

Friday Detentions: Students will serve a Friday detention for the following infractions: Failure to serve Office detention, Forged note, Illegal

parking, Impersonation, Leaving school grounds, Teacher discretion after engaging in progressive discipline consequences, Truancy. Friday

detentions will be served from 2:15 PM to 5:30 PM.

Suspension: Students will be suspended for the following infractions: Bullying, Cyberbullying, Failure to serve Friday detention, False alarm,

Fighting, Harassment, Inappropriate language directed at someone, Possession of cigarettes/tobacco products, Smoking, Theft,

Use/Possession/Distribution of drugs, Use/Possession of weapons, Vandalism.

INFRACTION DESCRIPTION MINIMUM 1ST CONSEQUENCE

Bullying, Cyberbullying, Refer to "Student Discrimination 1-3 days suspension

Harassment and Harassment" policy on p.21

False alarm 10-day suspension; contact police

and possible expulsion

Forged note Includes passes and notes Friday detention

from home

Impersonation Giving false identity over phone Friday detention;

or being involved in any way parent contact

Inappropriate attire See pg. 9 for description Warning; change clothing; possible

In-School Suspension


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Leaving school grounds without Includes Morrill Ave., Friday detention; parent contact.

prior permission from Robie Park and Woods, Cannot be excused after infraction

parents and school and the gully

INFRACTION DESCRIPTION MINIMUM 1ST

CONSEQUENCE

Public Display of Affection Hugging, kissing, touching, etc. Warning; Office detention if not followed

Removal from Office detention No credit for time served; Friday detention

Skipping Classroom detention Office detention

Skipping Office detention Friday detention; parent contact

Skipping Friday detention 2 days In-School suspension

Smoking and/or possession of Includes use or possession of 1-3 days suspension; confiscation no return;

tobacco products on school any tobacco products, including police contact

grounds chewing tobacco

Theft Defined as possessing 3-5 days suspension;

another person's property reparation; report to police

without their permission

Includes items from the Loss of cafeteria privileges;

cafeteria 3-5 days suspension;

reparation; report to police

Truancy Absences must be excused Friday detention

by parent or legal guardian


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Use or possession of weapons 5-10 days suspension; referral to police

Vandalism Includes graffiti 1-3 days suspension; clean-up; reparation;

referral to police

Harassment and Violence Protocol

Gorham High School has zero tolerance for harassment and violence. This protocol exists to help maintain the safety of Gorham High School

students and staff.

First Offense Second Offense

Bullying/Cyberbullying/Harassment 1-3 days suspension 5 days suspension(this includes teasing, inappropriate

language, or profanity directed at someone)

Fighting/Assault 5-10 days suspension, with 10 days suspension;

re-entrance to school contingent possible expulsion;

upon a conflict resolution meeting required

meeting with school personnel

Encouraging fighting: 3-5 days suspension 10 days suspension;

Anyone who chooses to encourage a fight verbally meeting required

or with gestures will receive disciplinary action

similar to those engaged in the fight. Students are

expected to leave the situation and contact

the nearest adult.

Inappropriate language directed at a teacher 3-5 days suspension 5 days suspension

Threatening language or physical contact 10 days suspension and referral 10+ days suspension

with a teacher to School Committee for and referral to

possible expulsion School Committee for


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of conduct will result in disciplinary action based upon the seriousness of that behavior, as deemed by

the administration.

Laptop Misuse Consequences

Infraction 1st

Offense 2nd Offense 3rd Offense 4th Offense

Inappropriate use

of laptop; websites

social networks,

cyber bullying, etc.

Tech Team

disables computer.Student has to

contact Admin tosign proper use

contract, and thenTech Team will

restore.

Tech Team

disables the airportfor one week;

student has to seeAdmin before

restoring (studentplugs in to use

Internetsupervised).

Tech Team

disables theInternetfor one

week; student hasto see Admin

before restoring(student has no

access to theInternet).

Administrative

Discipline

Consequences *

Illegal downloading Tech Team

disables computer.Student has to

contact Admin toi

Tech Team

disables the airportfor one week;

student has to seeAd i b f

Tech Team

disables theInternetfor one

week; student hast Ad i

AdministrativeDiscipline


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* Administrative Discipline Consequences may include: Detention, Friday detention, In-School suspension,Suspension, etc.

Gorham High School Administration reserves the right to impose accelerated consequences for serious

infractions.


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School Committee Policies

The following policies can be viewed on the Gorham School Department website (www.gorhamschools.org):

Hazing (Code ACAD)

Smoking on School Premises Prohibited (Code ADC)

School District Commitment to Learning Results (Code ADF)

Pest Management in School Facilities and on School Grounds (Code ECBA)

Student Transportation Services (Code EEA)

Student Conduct on School Buses (Code EEAEC)

Video Surveillance on School Vehicles (Code EEAEF)

Referral/Pre-Referral (Code IHBAA)

Child Find (IHBAC)

Selection and Review of Instructional Materials (Code IJJ)

Selection of Library and Media Materials (Code IJL)

School Web Site (Code IJND)

Student Progress Through the Grades (Code IKE)

Student Surveys and Marketing Information (Code ILD)

Code of Conduct (Code JICDA)

Bullying (Code JICK)

Questioning and Searches of Students (Code JIH)

Student Fund-Raising Activities (Code JJE)

Student Medication Policy (Code JLCD)

Student Education Records and Information (Code JRA)

Parent Involvement in Title I (Code KBF)

ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUG USE BY STUDENTS (Code JICH)

Statement of Philosophy

The Gorham School Committee and the staff of the Gorham School Department support a safe and healthy learning environment for all

students which is free from the detrimental effects of alcohol, other drugs and tobacco. Accomplishing this goal requires a cooperative effort

among students, parents, school staff, law enforcement, and organizations working to reduce the use of alcohol, other drugs and tobacco by school-

aged youth


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Intervention

The School Committee encourages substance use intervention. The district will provide assistance and information as appropriate

through a team approach to students who are involved with alcohol, other drugs or tobacco. Assistance to students seeking to address their

involvement with substances may include referral to community agencies for substance use treatments.

Procedures

I. Tobacco

Tobacco use in any form is prohibited on a school system location. School system location shall mean in any school building or on any school

premises; in any school-owned vehicle or in any other school-approved vehicle used to transport students to and from school sponsored or school-

approved activity, school-sponsored event or function, such as a field trip or athletic event, where students are under the jurisdiction of the school

system. Students violating this policy will be disciplined up to and including possible School Committee expulsion.

II. Alcohol and Other Drugs

A. Middle School/High School: Disciplinary Action/Violation of School Policy

1. Possession/Use - First Offense

a. Administrator meets with student. b. Verify/confiscate substance when possible.

c. Notify parent/guardian and Superintendent. Notify police, if appropriate.

d. Suspend student from school for ten days. A more substantial penalty, including recommendation

for expulsion, may be made depending upon the facts and circumstances of individual cases.

e. During suspension, student may undergo a drug and alcohol assessment.

f. Administrator will refer case to Student Review Team/Student Asst. Team (SRT/SAT).

g. SAT/SRT will convene as soon as possible and recommend a plan of action.

h. Upon returning to school, the student must maintain weekly contact with the guidance counselor,

social worker or member of the SAT/SRT for a period of time determined by the SAT/SRT.

i. Student shall maintain proper attitude, behavior and attendance.

j. Student will follow recommendations of the SAT/SRT.

k. The SAT/SRT will provide student and parents with a list of community resources and recommend they

attend an educational program on alcohol and other drug use.

2. Possession/Use - Second or Subsequent Offense

a. Administrator meets with student.

b. Verify violation/confiscate substance if possible.

c. Notify parent/guardian and Superintendent. Notify police, if appropriate.

d. Suspend student from school for ten days.


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b. To be reinstated to competitions and activities, the student must participate appropriately in an action plan

developed by the administrator, coach/advisor and student.

c. A second violation of the activities contract will result in suspension from participation in all

interscholastic contests and activities for a period of at least one calendar year.

d. Students and parents may appeal any suspension to the administrator and may propose an alternative plan

to a year-long suspension. Upon administrative review, the decision to approve or reject the proposal is

final.e. A third violation of the activities contract will result in dismissal from any activity for the remainder of the

students middle school and high school career.

f. If, on the first offense, a student self refers to the coach, administrator, or member of the school department

prior to any observation/report concerning the participants contract violation, the person contacted will

then refer the reported student to the substance abuse coordinator in confidence and an action plan will be

developed. Students who self refers for the first time may not be suspended or dismissed from the activity

if they willingly participate in the form of treatment approved by the administration. In addition, the

student shall not participate in a minimum of one sanctioned event or performance. The referral will count

as the first offense of the substance abuse policy.

g. For transfer students, any known violations from previous schools apply to this ladder of violations.

B. Elementary: Disciplinary Action/Violation of Policy

1. Possession Use - First Offense

a. Verification/confiscation

b. Administrator meets with student and parent

c. Disciplinary action as appropriate, i.e.

-out of school suspension up to ten days

-other disciplinary procedures

d. Notify parent/guardian and Superintendent. Notify police, if appropriate

e. Meet with the Community Health Team (CHT)

f. Provide parents with a list of community resources

g. Student will follow recommendation of CHT or face hearing with School Committee for possible

expulsion

2. Possession/Use - Second or Subsequent Offense

a. Verification/confiscation

b. Administrator meets with student

c. Suspension of student for ten days

d. Notify parent/guardian and Superintendent. Notify police and Department of Human Services (DHS), if

appropriate


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evidence that the behavior which was the cause of the student being expelled will not likely recur. Prior to any School Committee meeting to

consider such evidence, the student and his/her parents shall meet with the Superintendent to review the matter. The Superintendent shall make a

recommendation on re-admittance to the School Committee.

Implementation and Dissemination

The Superintendent shall be responsible for the development and promulgation of appropriate programs and regulations to implement

this policy.This policy and appropriate related information are to be distributed to students and parents annually through school handbooks and

other means as deemed appropriate by the Superintendent.

The Superintendent is to oversee a biennial review of the policy and regulations to determine the program's effectiveness, to implement

changes to programs, policy and regulations, as needed, and to ensure that disciplinary sanctions are consistently enforced.

STUDENT DISCRIMINATION AND HARASSMENT (Code ACAA)

The Gorham School Committee recognizes the right of each student to a school environment which is free of intimidation, hostility and

offensiveness. Harassment/sexual harassment of students by school employees or other students is prohibited on school property, while inattendance at school or at any school-sponsored activity, or at any time or place that such conduct directly interferes with a students education or

with the operations, discipline or general welfare of the school. In order to ensure such an environment, students are not to engage in harassment

and/or discrimination of any other person. Acts of harassment based upon race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, sexual orientation or

physical or mental disability are not only a violation of this policy but also constitute illegal discrimination under state and federal laws.

Discrimination against and harassment of students because of race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, sexual orientation or

physical or mental disability is prohibited.

Examples of prohibited harassment include but are not limited to:

A. Verbal abuse such as offensive racial, ethnic or sexual threats or comments;

B. Physical overtures, rude gestures or pressure to engage in sexual activity;C. Offensive jokes;

D. Ridicule, slurs, threats, derogatory action or remarks; and

E. Basing academic decisions or practices on submission to harassment.

Sexual harassment is prohibited by state and federal law. Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal,

written or physical conduct of a sexual nature constitute sexual harassment when:

A. Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of a students educational

benefits;

B. Submission to or rejection of such conduct by a student is used as the basis for decisions on educational benefits;

C. Such conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an individuals academic performance or

creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive education environment.

Examples of sexual harassment include, but are not limited to the following:

A. Unwelcome sexual advances

B Suggestive or lewd remarks


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ii. Determine what, if any, disciplinary action should be taken against the individual(s) who engaged in the

discrimination or harassment. Disciplinary action against students and employees shall be kept

confidential in accordance with applicable state and federal law.

G. If the complaining students parent or guardian is dissatisfied with the principals conclusions and/or remedial action,

the parent or guardian may appeal to the Superintendent. The Superintendent shall review the report of the

investigation and may conduct further investigation if he/she deems it appropriate. The Superintendents decision

shall be final.Students also have the right to report incidents of discrimination or harassment to the Maine Human Rights Commission, State House

Station 51, Augusta, Maine 04333, telephone 207-624-6050; or to the Federal Office for Civil Rights, Regional Director, U.S. Department of

Education, 33 Arch St., Suite 900, Boston, MA 02110.

STUDENT COMPUTER AND INTERNET USE RULES (Code IJNDB)

The Gorham School Committee believes that the resources available through the Internet are of significant value in the learning process

and preparing students for future success. At the same time, the unregulated availability of information and communication on the Internet require

that schools establish reasonable controls for lawful, efficient and appropriate use of this technology. The School Department provides computers,

networks and Internet access to support the educational mission of the schools and to enhance the curriculum and learning opportunities forstudents and school staff.

Student use of school computers, networks and Internet services is a privilege, not a right. Students are required to comply with this

policy and the accompanying rules (IJNDB-R). Students who violate the policy and/or rules may have their computer privileges revoked and may

also be subject to further disciplinary and/or legal action.

All Gorham School Department computers remain under the control, custody and supervision of the Gorham School Department. The

Gorham School Department reserves the right to monitor all computer and Internet activity by students. Students have no expectation of privacy

in their use of school computers.

While reasonable precautions will be taken to supervise student use of the Internet, the Gorham School Department cannot reasonably

prevent all inappropriate uses, including access to objectionable materials and communication with persons outside of the school in violation of

Committee policies/procedures and school rules. The Gorham School Department is not responsible for the accuracy or quality of information thatstudents obtain through the Internet.

Before a student is allowed to use school computers and Internet services, the student and the students parent/guardian must sign and

return the Computer/Internet Access Acknowledgment. The signed acknowledgment will be retained by the school.

The Superintendent shall be responsible for overseeing the implementation of this policy and the accompanying rules, and for advising

the Committee of the need for any future amendments or revisions to the policy/rules. The Superintendent may develop additional administrative

procedures/rules governing the day-to-day management and operations of the Gorham School Departments computer system as long as they are

consistent with the Committees policy/rules. The Superintendent may delegate specific responsibilities to building principals and others as he/she

deems appropriate.

BOMB THREATS (Code EBCC)

The School Committee recognizes that bomb threats are a significant concern to the school district. Whether real and carried out or

intended as a prank or for some other purpose, a bomb threat represents a potential danger to the safety and welfare of students and staff and to the

integrity of school property Bomb threats disrupt the instructional program and learning environment and also place significant demands on


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C. Development of Bomb Threat Procedures

The Superintendent shall be responsible for developing and implementing procedures specific to bomb threats as part of the

Crisis Response Plan. The Superintendent will be responsible for overseeing a review prior to the School Committees required annual

approval of the school districts Crisis Response Plan.

D. Reporting of Bomb Threats

A student who learns of a bomb threat or the existence of a bomb on school premises must immediately report suchinformation to the building principal, teacher, the School Resource Officer or other employee in a position of authority.

An employee of the school district who learns of a bomb threat shall immediately inform the building administrator. The

building administrator shall immediately take appropriate steps to protect the safety of students and staff in accordance with the school

districts bomb threat procedure, as developed under Section C, and inform the Superintendent of the threat.

All bomb threats shall be reported immediately to the local law enforcement authority, as provided in the bomb threat

procedures. The Superintendent shall be responsible for reporting any bomb threat to the Department of Education within two

business days

of the incident. Reports will include the name of the school, the date and time of the threat, the medium used to communicate the threat,

and whether or not the perpetrators have been apprehended.

E. Student Disciplinary Consequences

Making a bomb threat is a crime under Maine Law. Any student suspected of making a bomb threat shall be reported to law

enforcement authorities for investigation and possible prosecution. Apart from any penalty imposed by law, and without regard to the

existence or status of criminal charges, a student who makes a bomb threat shall be subject to disciplinary action by the school.

The administration may suspend and/or recommend for expulsion any student who makes a bomb threat. The making of a

bomb will be considered deliberately disobedient and deliberately disorderly within the meaning of 20-A M.R.S.A. Section 1001(9) and

will be grounds for expulsion if found necessary for the peace and usefulness of the school.

In addition, a student who is found after hearing by the School Committee to have brought a bomb to school shall be expelled

from school for at least one year in accordance with 20-A M.R.S.A. Section 1001(9-A) and Policy JICIA, except that the Superintendent

may modify the requirement for expulsion based on individual circumstances.

A student who has been identified through the PET process as having a disability and whose conduct in violation of this policy

is related to the disability shall be disciplined as provided in Policy JKF.

F. Aiding Another Student in Making Bomb Threats

A student who knowingly encourages, causes, aids or assists another student in making or communicating a bomb threat shall

be subject to the disciplinary consequences described in Section E of this policy.

G. Failure to Report a Bomb Threat

A student who fails to report information or knowledge of a bomb threat or the existence of a bomb or other destructive device

in a school building or on school property may be subject to disciplinary consequences, which may include suspension and/or expulsion.

H. Staff Disciplinary Consequences

A school system employee who makes or communicates a bomb threat will be reported to appropriate law enforcement

authorities and will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment. Disciplinary action taken shall be

consistent with collective bargaining agreements, other employment agreements and School Committee policies.

A school system employee who fails to report information or knowledge of a bomb threat or the existence of a bomb on school


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instructional time during the school year. The Gorham School District affirms the importance of homework as supporting and extending the

regular curriculum. We acknowledge research that underscores homework as a potentially important instructional tool that raises overall

achievement in school only when well designed, reasonable in amount, and supported in school and at home. Given this, the following guidelines

provide a framework for the designing and assigning of homework in the Gorham Schools.

Homework Guidelines

The Gorham School District values home-school relationships and recognizes that the partnership is a necessary element in the educating ofour students. It is acknowledged that homework extends beyond the school day and brings the work of the schools into the home. It affects family

life, extra-curricular activities, and parent-child interactions. In order for the Gorham School District to endorse this extension of schooling it is

imperative, therefore, that homework be well-designed, meaningful and beneficial to overall student achievement in school. It is agreed that the

following must be acknowledged and considered in the design of any homework assignment:

It is important that the design and length of homework is sensitive to a healthy balance of academics, home life, and extra-curricularactivities.

Homework should be designed to enrich learning, aid in the mastery of skills, offer opportunity for creative expression, and/or stimulate

further learning.

It is understood that as students grow and mature, the nature of their homework will evolve in length and complexity.

Homework will not be used as a punishment nor is it intended to be busy work. All homework must be appropriate, purposeful, and

provide added value to learning.

In order to acknowledge the differences in learning needs, abilities, and degrees of support in the home, the differentiation of homework

is necessary to ensure that the assigned homework is within reach of each student and can be completed independently. The exception to

independently might be assignments that are intentionally designed to be group work or a family activity.

Teachers have the responsibility to provide adequate and clear expectations, directions, and availability of materials for all homeworkassignments.

It is expected that teachers provide students timely feedback on homework assignments.

In an assessment system based on progress toward standards, the passing or failing of coursework should not depend upon the

completion of homework.

Parents are expected to consider homework as an important extension of their childs learning experience. Parents and school staff are

expected to work collaboratively to ensure successful completion of homework, being respectful of each others input. In the spirit of a

genuine two-way partnership, this communication is critical to keeping the best interest of the student as a top priority.

Any summer homework assigned to students must reflect the Gorham School Department Homework Policy.

WEAPONS, VIOLENCE AND SCHOOL SAFETY (Code JICIA)

The Gorham School Committee believes that students and staff are entitled to learn and work in an environment free of violence, threats,

and disruptive behavior. Students are expected to conduct themselves with respect for others and in accordance with Committee policies, school

rules, reasonable unwritten behavior expectations, and applicable state and federal laws.

School staff members are required to immediately report incidents of prohibited conduct by students to the building

administrator/designee for investigation and appropriate action.


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Disciplinary Action

Principals may suspend and/or recommend expulsion of students who violate this policy based upon the facts of each case and in

accordance with applicable state and federal laws. Conduct which violates this policy is deliberately disobedient and deliberately disorderly within

the meaning of 20-A MRSA Section 1001(9) and will be grounds for expulsion if found necessary for the peace and usefulness of the school.

Such conduct may also be grounds for expulsion under other provisions of 20-A MRSA Section 1001(9 and 9-A) that specifically prohibit the use

and possession of weapons, infractions or violence, and possession, furnishing and trafficking of scheduled drugs.Students who are found to have brought a firearm to school (as defined by federal law), shall be expelled for a period of not less than one

year, unless this requirement is modified by the Superintendent on a case-by-case basis.

All firearm violations shall be referred to law enforcement authorities as required by law. Other violations of this policy shall be referred

to law enforcement authorities at the discretion of the Superintendent.

Students with disabilities shall be disciplined in accordance with applicable federal and state laws/regulations and School Committee

policy JKF.

Psychological Evaluation/Risk Assessment

The Committee authorizes the Superintendent to request an immediate psychological evaluation of a student who violates this policy

when, in the Superintendent's opinion, such an evaluation will assist in assessing the risk the student poses to school safety if the student were to

remain in school.

The Superintendent is also authorized to request psychological evaluations of students who have been identified as posing a substantial

risk of violent behavior.

All such evaluations shall be performed at the expense of the Gorham School Department.

If the parents/guardians and/or student refuse to permit a requested psychological evaluation, the Superintendent and the Committee may

draw any reasonable inferences from the student's behavior concerning the risk the student poses to school safety for purposes of determining

appropriate action.

NOTIFICATION OF RIGHTS UNDER F.E.R.P.A.

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age ("eligible students") certain rights

with respect to the student's education records. They are:

(1) The right to inspect and review the student's education records within 45 days of the day the District receives a request from access.

Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal [or appropriate school official] a written request that identifies the record(s)

they wish to inspect. The principal will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the

records may be inspected.

(2) The right to request the amendment of the student's education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate or

misleading.


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GORHAM SCHOOL DEPARTMENT HEALTH SERVICES

There are many important health needs recognized in school-age children, therefore many state laws and Board of Education policies have been

developed to promote the health and safety of these children. It is the goal of the Gorham Health Services Department to carry out these policies

and to identify preventative measures to promote wellness in the school community.

The School Health Dept. is staffed by professional nurses, who cover Gorham High School, Gorham Middle School, Narragansett, Great Falls, and

Village Schools. Please contact the school nurse at your childs school for any health concerns or questions.

Accidents

Parents will be notified of all accidents occurring at school, except those requiring basic first aid. If the student needs follow up care at home or atthe hospital, the parent is responsible for transporting the student (or their designated emergency contact person). For serious medical

emergencies, the rescue department will be called.

Allergies

The school nurse will ask parents of students with allergies to complete an allergy action plan in collaboration with the childs physician on an

annual basis. Students who require emergency medications, such as inhalers or Epipens, may self-carry with the written permission of their

physician and parent. Parents will work with the nurse to set up instructions regarding snacks, meal choices, and field trip concerns at the start of

each school year. There are students in the district who are latex allergic; therefore the only balloons allowed in the school building are Mylar

balloons (NO LATEX BALLOONS).

Communicable Diseases

Students with diseases that are contagious/infectious shall be excluded from school until signs of contagion are past. Exclusions are as follows:

Chicken Pox- until all lesions have crusted over or are dry, usually 5-7 days, or longer

Conjunctivitis- 24 hours after medication started or MD note

Impetigo- 24 hours after medication started or MD note

Pertussis- MD note needed

Measles-MD note needed

Scabies- may return after treatment has been completed

Strep- 24 hours after medication started

Ringworm-24 hours after medication started

Fifth Disease-No exclusion necessary, but notify the Health Office of the illness

Head Lice In Accordance with guidance from the Center for Disease Control the American Academy of Pediatrics the Harvard School of Public


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Please notify the school office if your child is ill and will not be attending school. When you call the school office please state the childs

symptoms and whether or not there is a fever over 100 degrees. Students who become ill at school will be dismissed only to the specific people

listed on the emergency card unless the school is instructed by the parent to make other arrangements. All students who are ill at school should be

seen by the school nurse or school secretary in the nurses absence prior to dismissal. Students may not notify parents they are ill via text or cell

phone call during school hours. The phone call home should be made from the main office or nurses office. Following this procedure allows us to

track common illnesses. Students who have a fever and/or a sore throat or cough should stay home until they are fever-free for 24 hours (without

the use of anti-fever medicine). Students with diarrhea or vomiting should also stay home for 24 hours after diarrhea or vomiting has stopped,

before returning to school.

Immunizations

Current Maine State Law for children attending public schools requires:

5 Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis doses (4 doses if dose 4 after 4th birthday)

4 Oral Polio doses (3 doses if dose 3 after 4th birthday)

or

4 doses of IPV

2 Measles, Mumps, Rubella doses (dose 1 must be on or after first birthday)

1 Varicella vaccine or a health record from your Primary Care Provider showing proof of chickenpox disease or a blood test showing immunity to

chickenpox.

Immunization dates or an annual exemption letter for medical or philosophical reasons must be on file as follows:

Kindergarten-upon registration

Transfer students- upon registration

Additionally, the current recommendation from the Center for Disease Control for adolescents includes:

Td at age 11(tetanus), pertussis, meningococcal meningitis vaccine, and HPV vaccine

Hepatitis B series (if not already done)

Medications

Please note the medication policy and permission form located below.

Physical Exams

Health Services encourages parents to forward physical exam records to the school nurse when a student has been seen by his/her primary care

provider. We will routinely send home reminder notices in grades K, 4, 7, 10 if we do not receive documentation of an exam for our health

records. A physical examination provides the school with valuable information about the health status of your child and is an important part of the

health record. The Gorham School Department is not responsible for providing physical examinations for students. The Athletic Department

requires a physical every 2 years in grades 6-12 for any student who is playing a school sport. Please keep a copy on hand of your childs physical

exam report so that it is readily available for any sports season.

Student Health Records


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Code: JLCE

ALLERGY POLICY

The Gorham School Committee is committed to providing a safe environment for students who have an allergy history. In the event of

an allergic reaction, the students individual physician orders will be followed. In the absence of individual student orders, the anaphylaxis

procedure in the Health Policy and Procedure manual will be followed.

The decision to carry and self administer epinephrine and inhalers should be made jointly by the students physician, family, the student

and school nurse.

Parent/Guardian Responsibilities to Provide:

Physician documentation of the allergy

Signed medication permission forms or allergy plan to administer medication

Epi-pens or other allergy medications

Information about students allergy

Emergency contact information

Physician contact information

School Responsibilities:

All staff will be trained annually in the care of students with allergies.

An Epi-pen will be readily available in the office and cafeteria of every school building.

All reasonable efforts will be made to avoid student exposures to allergens. With this in mind, latex balloons will not be allowed in any

school buildings and allergy safe eating areas will be provided in every school. The district will continue to review measures that will

improve the safety and well-being of students.

Cross Reference: JLCD Student MedicationAdopted: April 6, 2011

ALLERGY PROTOCOL

HEALTH SERVICES STAFF DEVELOPMENT

1. Prior to the beginning of the school year, all staff, including food service, transportation, custodial, and maintenance staff will be trainedby the school nurse about the following topics:

OSHA standard for blood borne pathogens

The care of the diabetes student

General first aid procedures


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CLASSROOMS OF STUDENTS WITH KNOWN ALLERGIES

1. A letter will be sent home to the parents of all students at the beginning of the school year and again in January (by the school nurse) toremind parents to review the handbook for allergy information.

2. No obvious nuts, peanuts or peanut butter foods will be consumed in the classroom of students with known food allergies in grades K-5.

3. Students may consume nuts, peanuts and peanut butter foods in the cafeteria or other designated area followed by surface cleaning andhand washing.

4. In the classroom with a known allergy student:

The classroom adult is responsible for monitoring that the environment is cleaned after food consumption in grades K-5.

All tables in the classroom will be cleaned immediately after food consumption.

An adult will spray surfaces with a school approved cleaner and the area will be wiped dry after.

Students will wash their hands with soap and water.

Hand washing by all students after eating.

5. All students will wash their hands with soap and water upon arriving at school in grades K-5

6. Snacks provided for an entire class should not contain obvious nuts, peanuts, or peanut butter foods.

7. No food trading, touching or sharing ever.

8. The classroom teacher is responsible for including the allergy plan of the allergy student in the sub packet.

9. Teachers will notify parents of allergy students about lesson plans or activities involving the use of any food.

10. Epi-pens will be kept in a case on a hook by the classroom door in grades K-5. Students in grades 6-12 may self-carry-see medication

policy.

11. If the building is evacuated the adult in the classroom is responsible for carrying the students Epi-pen or other emergency medicine withthem.

BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

1. The school nurse is a resource for activity leaders to discuss any health concerns related to students in their activity or sport.

2. It is the parents responsibility to notify the adult in charge about the health conditions related to their child for any before or after school

activity including the location of all medicines (Epi-pen, inhalers etc.).

3. It is the responsibility of the parent to provide emergency medicine for

before and after school events and to be sure that any required medication is in the students personal back-pack or sports bag.

4. The activity leader will include a place on the registration sheet for parents to complete any information related to health conditions.

5. As part of any activity sign-up, health concerns including allergies must be communicated by the parent to the adult in charge consulting

with the school nurse when necessary.

FIELD TRIPS

1. Teachers must notify the school nurse and parent one week in advance of any trip.


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8. Parents and food service directors will review labels and keep the allergic student informed.

9. In buildings where the cafeteria is also used for class, the floors will be washed after any eating event that has occurred.

TRANSPORTATION

1. Parents will introduce child with allergy to the bus driver or sub bus driver.

2. NO eating on the bus during routine bus trips to and from school unless it is medically necessary.

3. Students will be instructed about bus protocols related to food with the annual student bus training

4. At the parents request, preferential seating to the front of the bus may be arranged with transportation department.

5. Parents must inform the bus driver, if a student has emergency medicine such as an inhaler, Epi-pen, glucagon in the outside pocket of

their backpack. Any concerns with the transportation of students will be directed to the transportation director.

MEDICATIONS

1. The school physician will issue an annual order for Epi-pens and Benadryl to be available for use by any school staff in an emergency(see Physicians Standing Orders Anaphylaxis Protocol).

2. The school nurse team leader will be responsible for obtaining annual orders from the school physician.

3. Each school will have a limited supply of Epi-pens for emergency use and/or field trips.

4. Parents are responsible for supplying Epi-pens and other medications for students with known allergies. The parent of any student whomay self-carry a medication is responsible for tracking the expiration date and replacing the medication when needed.

5. The school nurse will check expiration dates and replace school supplied Epi-pens as needed.

6. Students will not be allowed to carry medications except under the conditions outlined in the school medication policy.

7. Students who self-carry medications are responsible for proper storage and availability of Epi-pens and other emergency medications.Staff must be aware that Epi-pens will be available in the school office, cafeteria and other designated areas to provide quick access in

an emergency.

8. Epi-pens will be stored at 59-86 degrees, room temperature. They may not be left in a hot or cold vehicle/bus or stored in sunlight.This is the responsibility of the adult on duty.

9. It is the responsibility of the adult on duty during outdoor activities including recess, to carry the Epi-pen(s) in an insulated fanny packin all K-5 locations.

10. The fanny pack for recess (K-5) and building evacuations will be located in the main office.

11. For elementary (K-5) students whose IHP requires the Epi-pen to follow the student to classrooms, unless there is a self-carry order inplace, the adult will move the Epi-pen from room to room and hang the Epi-pen on a hook near the door of the classroom.

Gorham School Health Services Department


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File: JOC

STUDENT MEDICATION POLICY

The Gorham School Committee is committed to ensuring the safety of all students who may require medications at school. To ensure

safe practice thismedication policy was developed with the intention of keeping students requiring essential medications in school without placing

undue burden upon those responsible for their care.Medications will not be administered without the written consent of both the parent and the students physician. The physician should

concur that the administration of a medication during school hours is necessary for the health of the student.

The physician order must include:

the medication, route, and dosage

frequency

the length of time to administer the medication (no longer than the current school year)

medication side effects

the medical personnel to notify in case of an untoward effect of the medication

In the interest of maintaining students health, nurses may ask the parent to seek a physicians advice if the use of over-the-countermedication is prolonged or may be inappropriate.

Adopted: December 8, 1999, revised 8/05

*******

The following procedures are an adjunct to the policy and reflect a process intended to safely implement administration of medications in the

school setting.STUDENT MEDICATION PROCEDURES

1. Students will not be permitted to carry and self-administer any medication (including over the counter meds) in school except under very special

circumstances (see #2) with a written order from the physician.

2. Students with asthma or allergies may be permitted to carry inhalers, Epipens, or other medications if the school nurse receives written

permission from the parent and the students physician that the child is able to manage the medication administration independently. Students must

demonstrate to the school nurse the ability to safely administer the prescribed medication.

3. Unlicensed trained personnel or the school nurse will administer medications in the school setting.

4.The medication permission form must be completely filled in and signed by the parent and physician. One form is required for each medication,


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Request for School Personnel to Administer Medication

To be completed by the physician/dentist:

Students Name____________________

Telephone__________________

Allergies____________________

Name of Medication_________________________

Dosage___________________________________

Time to Administer__________________________

Physicians Name___________________________ Telephone_________________________________

Reason for Medication_________________________________________________

Side Effects________________________________________________

Termination Date______________________________________________________

I understand that school employees are not medically trained personnel and that a school nurse is not available to give individual nursing

attention at all times during the school day. However, the above-named student is in need of the medication during school hours to maintain his/her

health. In my opinion, his/her need for the medication is so important that, if the school nurse is not available, I advise and request that non-

medical school personnel dispense this medication in accordance with the above instructions.

In the event of side effects, school officials should take the following action:

___________________________________________________________

Physician Signature___________________________________Date________________

To be completed by a parent/legal guardian:


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SCHOOL CALENDAR

2011-2012

September October November December January

M T W T F M T W T F M T W T F M T W T F M T W T F

22 23 24 25 26 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 1 2 2 3 4 5 6

29 30 31 1 2 10 11 12 13 14 7 8 9 10 11 5 6 7 8 9 9 10 11 12 13

5 6 7 8 9 17 18 19 20 21 14 15 16 17 18 12 13 14 15 16 16 17 18 19 20

12 13 14 15 16 24 25 26 27 28 21 22 23 24 25 19 20 21 22 23 23 24 25 26 27

19 20 21 22 23 31 28 29 30 26 27 28 29 30 30 3126 27 28 29 30

25/26 Inservice K-12 7 Early Release K-12 4 Quarter Ends 6-12 9 Early Release K-12 2 New Year's Day

29 Grades K, 6, 9 Begin 10 Columbus Day 11 Veteran's Day 23-2 Vacation 16 Martin Luther King Day

30 All Other Grades Begin 27 Early Release K-12 23 Flex Day 26 Christmas 20 Quarter Ends 6-12

2 No School 28 Conference K-12 24/25 Thanksgiving 26 Early Release K-12

5 Labor Day 22 Trimester Ends K-5 27 Inservice K-12

February March April May June

M T W T F M T W T F M T W T F M T W T F M T W T F

1 2 3 1 2 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 16 7 8 9 10 5 6 7 8 9 9 10 11 12 13 7 8 9 10 11 4 5 6 7 8

13 14 15 16 17 12 13 14 15 16 16 17 18 19 20 14 15 16 17 18 11* 12* 13* 14* 15*

20 21 22 23 24 19 20 21 22 23 23 24 25 26 27 21 22 23 24 25 18 19 20 21 22

27 28 29 26 27 28 29 30 30 28 29 30 31 25 26 27 28 29

20 President's Day 2 Early Release K-12 12 Early Release K-12 18 Early Release K-12 10 Graduation

20-24 Winter Vacation 9 Trimester Ends K-5 13 Inservice K-12 28 Memorial Day 15 Last Student Day

29 Early Release K-12 16 Patriot's Day 18 Flex Day

30 Conferences K-12 16-20 Spring Vacation

30 Quarter Ends 6-12

Start Stop Early Release Storm Dismissal No School *5 Storm Days Built In

Great Falls 9:00 3:00 12:00 12:00

Narragansett 9:00 3:00 12:00 12:00 Early Release

Village 9:00 3:00 12:00 12:00

Middle School 8:00 2:10 11:10 11:10 No School for Students

High School 7:50 2:00 11:00 11:00 (Flex or Inservice) Adopted 3/23/11

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