WEST NEW YORK MIDDLE SCHOOL

2019-2020

STUDENT HANDBOOK

201 57 th Street West New York, New Jersey 07093

Phone: 201-553-4160

Fax: 201-863-6698 http://www.wnyschools.net/district/wnyms/

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Board of Education President

Adam Parkinson

Vice President David Morel

Trustees

Jonathan Castaneda Maite Fernandez

Damarys Gonzalez Jose Ruben Mendoza

Joseph Rodriguez Ronald Scheurle Adrienne Sires

Central Office Administration Superintendent Clara Brito Herrera Assistant Superintendent Jorge Acosta Assistant Superintendent Christian Cardenas Assistant Superintendent Anastasia Olivero Assistant Superintendent Scott Wohlrab

Business Administrator/Board Secretary Dean Austin Admin. Supervisor of Educ. Sys. & Data Lorenzo Corrrea

Administration Principal Patrick Gagliardi Assistant Principal Kelly Jameson Assistant Principal Reneé Rodriguez

Supervision Athletics/Physical Education John Fraraccio Bilingual/ESL/World Language Madely Miqueli Language Arts Jose Jimenez Mathematics Vincent Parisi Science Francisco Barquin Social Studies Sandra Rivas

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Welcome staff, parents and students to another year in the West New York Public Schools! As the Superintendent of Schools, I am looking forward to working with our community to continue to provide quality education to West New York’s children. In our schools, we are fortunate to have minorities being our majority. Our school district is rich in both culture and diversity, allowing for enhanced 21 st century learning. Growing up and attending public schools in West New York, I fervently believe that we, as human beings, learn so much from our environment and from those around us. In the West New York School District, we embrace each other’s differences in order to achieve academic success inside and outside the classroom. As your superintendent, assuring that our students receive meaningful education is my top priority. I am proud to say that our exceptional teachers push our students to the highest potentials through a challenging and rigorous curriculum. With career-orientated learning academies at Memorial High School, we make sure that our children are fully prepared for all of the next steps they will take in their lives. In addition, our partnerships with Syracuse University, New Jersey City University, Kean University, Fairleigh Dickinson University, and Hudson Community College provide our students with a glimpse of college life at the high school level. In today’s modern world, technology has become a major part of effective teaching and learning. The West New York School District uses the state-mandated Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC) exam to evaluate students. Because we are living in a digital age, we have adapted our instruction by making Chromebooks an essential resource for our students. In addition, Google Classroom allows for interactive discussions between classmates and their teachers. The technological advancements made in our public schools promote science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and the arts (S.T.E.A.M.) education. While education inside the classroom is incredibly important, parents play a critical role in the education process after the school day ends. Being a mother myself, I understand the everyday struggles West New York parents face. Nonetheless, parental involvement is without a doubt a necessary component of a successful school district. As parents, you truly understand that education is the great equalizer, and through education your sons and daughters will achieve great academic success. Parental input is always valued, and I strongly encourage parents to get involved in our school district by actively attending local parent meetings. Though change can often cause people to become worrisome, I assure you that together the West New York School District will continue to succeed. I have a clear vision for our schools focused upon student achievement, parent involvement, staff relations, and cultural diversity. Working with the members of our community for the best interest of our students is exactly the reason I choose to be an educator. I am confident that this will be yet another year of academic excellence for the West New York students. Sincerely, Clara Brito Herrera Superintendent of Schools

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Welcome to the West New York Middle School! For those Knights returning, we are very happy to have you with us for another year. To our new students, we are excited that you are joining us in this wonderful place to learn & grow. To everyone, we are committed to your success and hope to expand your love of learning. We have high expectations at the Middle School. We strive to do our best and challenge ourselves to achieve every day. We pride ourselves on being respectful, polite and kind. We offer help to each other and accept help when needed. Together we will overcome obstacles and realize great accomplishments. The Middle School is a place of transition. Many adjustments are made as we become comfortable with the campus, the academic rigor, the social atmosphere and the increase in responsibilities. We offer a rich support program to assist you with your transition and your overall experience. Please be sure to communicate with your teachers, administrators, disciplinarians, guidance counselors, social workers and substance awareness coordinator on a frequent basis. We are all here for you and your family. During your time at the Middle School, you will enjoy countless opportunities to develop in numerous ways. Take advantage of what we have to offer. Our programs are designed to help you grow academically, socially, physically and mentally. You will be provided with the tools you need to further your life experience at the high school level and beyond. Once again, welcome. The entire WNY Middle School faculty and staff wish everyone of you a happy, healthy and successful school year. All the best to you and your family.

Patrick Gagliardi, Principal

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MIDDLE SCHOOL TIME SCHEDULE

REGULAR TIME SCHEDULE

8:05 Teachers Report 8:11 - 8:19 Homeroom Period 8:21 - 9:02 First Period 9:04 - 9:45 Second Period 9:47 - 10:28 Third Period 10:30 -11:11 Fourth Period 11:13 -11:54 Fifth Period 11:56 -12:37 Sixth Period 12:39 - 1:20 Seventh Period 1:22 - 2:03 Eighth Period 2:05 - 2:46 Ninth Period 2:50 Teacher Dismissal

ONE-SESSION SCHEDULE

PROFESSIONAL LEARNING SEMINAR (PLS)

8:15 Teachers Report 8:20 - 8:32 Homeroom Period 8:34 – 8:59 First Period (25 min.) 9:01 - 9:26 Second Period (25 min.) 9:28 – 9:53 Third Period (25 min.) 9:55 -10:20 Fourth Period (25 min.) 10:22-10:47 Eighth Period (25 min.) 10:49-11:14 Ninth Period (25 min.) 11:16 -11:57 Fifth Period (41 min.) 11:59- 12:24 Sixth Period (25 min.) 12:26 - 1:07 Seventh Period (41 min.)

ONE-SESSION SCHEDULE

NON-PLS (11/23, 12/23, 4/13, 6/21, 6/22)

8:15 Teachers Report 8:20 - 8:30 Homeroom Period 8:32 – 8:52 First Period (20 min.) 8:54 - 9:14 Second Period (20 min.) 9:16 – 9:36 Third Period (20 min.) 9:38 - 9:58 Fourth Period (20 min.) 10:00-10:20 Eighth Period (20 min.) 10:22-10:42 Ninth Period (20 min.) 10:44 -11:25 Fifth Period (41 min.) 11:27- 11:47 Sixth Period (20 min.) 11:49 – 12:30 Seventh Period (41 min.)

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DELAYED OPENING SCHEDULE

9:30 Teachers Report 10:00 - 10:11 Homeroom Period 10:13 - 10:38 First Period (25 min.) 10:40 - 11:05 Second Period (25 min.) 11:07 - 11:32 Third Period (25 min.) 11:34 -12:15 Fifth Period (41 min.) 12:17 -12:42 Fourth Period (25 min.) 12:44 -1:25 Seventh Period (41 min.) 1:27 - 1:52 Sixth Period (25 min.) 1:54 - 2:19 Eighth Period (25 min.) 2:21 - 2:46 Ninth Period (25 min.) 2:50 Teacher Dismissal

EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSING/DELAYED OPENING In the event of a severe storm or other emergency, news of the closing of school will be carried at approximately 7:30 a.m. on radio stations WADO (for Spanish-speaking parent(s) and guardian(s), WOR (710), WINS (1010) and FOX TV Channel 5. Parents will also receive a recorded phone message from the school Blackboard Connect communications system. Unless specifically announced, students should assume that school will be open and classes will be conducted as usual. No phone calls are to be made to the school or the Board of Education Office.

DISTRICT POLICIES The policies and Pupil Discipline/Code of Conduct contained in this student agenda/handbook are summaries of the District’s numerous policies. The District requires all pupils and their parent(s) or legal guardian(s) to review all District policies which are posted on the District’s web site and are available from any school principal. Find the District Policies page here:

DISTRICT POLICIES http://www.wnyschools.net/district/policiesandregulations.asp

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HALL PASSES AND ID CARDS Students are not permitted in the halls during class periods unless they are accompanied by a teacher or have a hall pass from an authorized staff member. Students must wear their school ID cards at all times. Students not having their ID must be issued a temporary ID in order to be admitted to class. Students not having or wearing ID’s will face disciplinary action. The school ID cards will be issued each year in the fall. Lost ID cards will be replaced at a cost of $5.00 to the student.

VISITORS/PARENT CONFERENCES All visitors are required to report to the Security Desk upon entering the building to sign in with the police officer, leave a proper ID, and receive a pass. All visitors must be escorted to and from their destination by a staff member. All parent-teacher conferences must take place during your child’s teachers’ CPT (Common Planning Period). Please review your child’s schedule and contact the teacher(s) to schedule an appointment.

GRADES

Students’ grades are a reflection of their academic achievement. The grade reflects the student’s daily work, homework assignments, test and quiz grades, classroom participation, and any projects which are assigned. Students will be informed of their academic progress throughout each marking period. The grading criteria are as follows:

Letter Grade Numerical Equivalent

A+ 100-97 A 96-93 A- 92-90 B+ 89-87 B 86-83 B- 82-80 C+ 79-77 C 76-73 C- 72-70 D 69-65

F 64-below

REPORT CARDS / PROGRESS REPORTS Report cards are issued at the end of each marking period, using letter grades to designate a pupil’s progress. Progress Reports are issued at the middle of the first, second, third and fourth marking periods. Report Cards and Progress Reports are printed and distributed directly to students every marking period. A Blackboard Connect call will be made every marking period as a reminder. Parents/Guardians are encouraged to contact their child’s teacher if there are any concerns.

HONOR ROLL

HIGH HONORS HONORS All A’s 4 or more A’s No grades lower than an A- B’s in all other areas

No grades lower than B- * All students recognized as HIGH HONORS or HONORS will receive a certificate of recognition.

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PROMOTION STANDARDS All students shall demonstrate proficiency in district-approved programs. The Middle School has developed the following standards for promotion to high school:

● Eighth grade students must attain at least a D final average (65-69) in all core subjects and Physical Education.

● Student must meet district attendance requirements. ● Students must maintain a satisfactory record of citizenship and behavior.

Students who fail to meet these standards will be retained in the eighth grade. Seventh grade students must also attain at least a D final average (65-69) in all core subjects and Physical Education, and comply with the above standards in order to be promoted.

CURRICULUM Middle School students will participate in a 9 period day. Each period will last forty-one minutes. A typical nine period day will include:

● Language Arts Literacy – Reading—The Genres of Literature 7 th Advanced Literature and Composition 8 th ● Language Arts Literacy – Writing—The Writing Process 7 th Advanced Writing Strategies 8 th ● Mathematics ● Integrated Science with Lab Work ● American History ● Lunch ● Physical Education/Health (one marking period)—five times a week ● Exploratory Quarterly Units

○ Information Technology (Computers). ○ Studio Art ○ Survey of Music ○ World Language ○ G & T (Gifted and Talented) for selected students ○ Spanish (High School credit ) for selected 8 th graders (yearly course) ○ Algebra Honors (High School credit ) for selected 8 th graders (yearly course) ○ STEAM Science for selected 8th graders (yearly course)

In addition, all students must take State assessment tests as required by the Department of Education. Students determined to be at risk for proficiency may be required to attend extended day programs leading up to the test administration.

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KNIGHT CLUB EXTENDED DAY PROGRAM A.M. Session: 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m. P.M. Session: 2:50 - 3:50 p.m.

Begins Monday, September 30, 2019 Offered every full day of school, Mondays - Thursdays

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STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

Student Guide for Safety, Citizenship, Behavior and Conduct This guide was compiled to assist in making the West New York School District a safe and comfortable learning environment for all students. The West New York School District administration is committed to providing a safe, secure environment for all students and staff. The District’s Expectations for Pupil Conduct Policy 5500 and Pupil Discipline/Code of Conduct Policy 5600 are posted on the District’s website. Click here to review: District Policy & Regulation 5500 District Policy & Regulation 5600 Remember, if you do not have access to a computer; please reach out to the Principal for a copy of any of the policies referenced in this student handbook.

ATTENDANCE POLICY & REGULATION

Attendance is required of all students enrolled in a school during the days and hours that the school is in session unless it is shown to the satisfaction of the administration that an acceptable cause exists to justify the student’s absence. Parental/guardian notes will be kept on file by the attendance officers and physician’s notes will be kept on file by the nurse. The administration reserves the right to verify such notes and to investigate the cause of each absence or tardiness. Dental and medical appointments are to be scheduled AFTER school hours. Students may not attend after school activities if not in attendance during the school hours. The Board of Education neither condones nor permits absences from school for any reason not specified in the law, and course credit may not be issued if the student attendance requirement is not met. Vacations or family travel while school is in session are not considered reasons for excused absences. Excessive absences may lead to one or more of the following: parent conference with school administration, academic failure due to missed class time, and/or court appearance(s). Good attendance is critical in order to succeed in school. It is the student’s responsibility to be present and on time to homeroom and to each of their classes. Chronic absenteeism will result in ineligibility for extracurricular activities, athletic events and school functions such as graduation, sporting games, field trips, proms, dances, clubs, etc.

For a full description of the District’s Attendance Policy and Regulation 5200 Click here: District Policy & Regulation 5200 . Remember, if you do not have access to a computer; please reach out to the Principal for a copy of any of the policies referenced in this student handbook.

TRUANCY

Truancy is defined as absence from school without parent’s or guardian’s knowledge. Children under 16 years of age are required to attend school (N.J.S.A.18A:38:25). Students under 16 years of age who are truant will be referred for detention or court action.

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LATE TO SCHOOL/CLASS All students must be in their homeroom by 8:11 a.m. A student who enters the building after 8:11am will be marked late and will be assigned detention. When a student is late to school, he/she must report to the Security Desk and sign in. If arriving after 1 st period (9:02 AM), he/she must report to the Attendance Officer’s office before proceeding to classes. The late slip should be given to his/her class teacher. Excessive lates may lead to one or more of the following: detention, parent conference with school administration, academic failure due to missed class time, and/or court appearance(s). All students must report to all classes on time.

HOME INSTRUCTION Home Instruction is provided to students upon the recommendation of the attending physician. The physician must notify the school nurse in writing. Instruction will take place at the WNY Public Library, Monday - Friday only. No instruction will take place during holidays or school closings. If instruction is required to take place at the home of a student, a supervising adult must be present. No home instructor will be asked to enter the home of an unsupervised child for the purpose of providing home instruction.

GUIDANCE Guidance services and social work services are available to every student in the school. These services include assistance with educational planning, interpretation of test scores, occupational information, career information, study aids, help with home, school, and/or social concerns, or any question a student may feel he/she would like to discuss with the counselor. Each student will be assigned a guidance counselor and a school social worker based on his or her grade.

HEALTH SERVICES

If a student is ill before coming to school, he/she should stay home. If a student is injured or becomes ill during the school day, he/she must report to the nurse, who will decide what should be done. If the nurse decides that a student must go home, the nurse will contact the parent/guardian or designated adult. Students must not leave the building because of illness without authorization, nor use their cell phone to contact anyone. If the nurse is not available, students are to report to the main office. Any parent wishing to contact the nurse can reach her at (201) 553-4160 x68020.

MEDICATION School Board Policy prohibits students from taking any medication on their own. This includes over-the-counter medicine as well as prescription medicine. No medication will be administered to students in school except by the school nurse. Medication must be delivered to the school nurse in its original labeled container by the student’s parent and must be accompanied by the parent’s written request for its administration and by the physician’s written and signed statement of the medications name, the purpose of its administration, its proper timing and dosage, its possible side effects, and the time when its use will be discontinued. All student medications shall be appropriately maintained and secured by the school nurse.

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LUNCH PROCEDURE The West New York Middle School has a closed 41-minute lunch. No one is allowed to leave the building for lunch. Students have the option to bring their own lunch or apply for free or reduced lunch. Otherwise, they are to buy the food prepared in the cafeteria daily. Food and beverages are prohibited in classrooms, corridors, hallways and stairwells. At no time are students allowed to take food outside of the cafeteria. Students using the cafeteria must: 1. Clean their table area before leaving. All debris must be emptied into trash containers. 2. Maintain orderly cafeteria lines. No running, pushing, cutting in, or reserving spots in line for

late-comers. 3. Eat only at the tables

TEXTBOOKS Textbooks are loaned to students for use during the school year. They are expensive and are to be treated as personal property. The condition of the books should be noted when they are received. Please report any problems immediately to the teacher issuing the textbook. We expect books to be returned in nearly the same condition as when received. If not, fines are imposed and must be paid. If the student fails to return a textbook and does not pay the necessary fine, he/she will not receive a report card, student schedule, and/or diploma.

LOCKERS Lockers with combination locks are issued to students at the beginning of the year by their homeroom teachers. Lockers should be kept locked at all times. Students are cautioned against telling their combination to each other, or they cannot expect their property to be safe. Each student is responsible for keeping his/her assigned locker clean both inside and outside. Damages caused by misuse of tape, graffiti, etc… will be charged to the student responsible. Any locker malfunction should be reported to the school administration. Students are cautioned not to keep money or other valuables in their lockers. The school is not responsible for loss of personal belongings. Students are required to change into gym clothes for Physical Education class. The locker room in the gymnasium has lockers without locks. We encourage students to bring a lock with them to physical education class to lock up their respective personal belongings. Each student must remove his/her lock at the end of each physical education class. Locks left on the gym lockers will be cut off at the end of each day. New Jersey Law (18A:36-19-2) permits the administration to inspect students’ lockers or storage facilities provided for use by students. The school administration will hold periodic inspections of all lockers.

FIELD TRIP ELIGIBILITY Any student who is participating in a school field trip must have a permission slip completed with the necessary information including a parental/guardian signature and comply with the middle school dress code. This must be returned to the faculty advisor prior to the trip. Students should be aware that they might be denied the privilege of participating in a field trip if they are considered ineligible by Administration.

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STUDENT DISCIPLINE Discipline should be thought of as teaching aimed at bringing about desirable behavior and self-control. Disciplinary action will be taken for inappropriate student conduct . Detention may be assigned when a rule is violated within the school community. Chronic and increasingly more severe offenses will warrant a parent conference and could bring about suspension of the student from school. Court action may be instituted for such violations as truancy, trespassing, assault, the use or sale of drugs, malicious destruction or damage to school property, carrying concealed weapons, and any other violations of New Jersey Statutes.

FIRE AND SECURITY DRILL PROCEDURES Fire and security drills at regular intervals are required by law and are an important safety precaution. It is essential that when the first signal is given, everyone obeys orders promptly and clears the building by the prescribed route as quickly as possible. It is the purpose of these drills to prepare the student body to meet any emergency which might require a rapid mass exit.

PARENT PORTAL

Parents and students have the ability to track and monitor academic progress in real-time as long as they have internet access and an email account. The Parent Portal gives parents and students access to real-time information from the teacher’s grade book including attendance, grades, and detailed assignment descriptions. Rest assured that the information accessed through the Parent Portal is secure and strictly confidential. If you have not already subscribed to the Parent Portal and would like to obtain access, you must pick up your respective Access ID Number and Access Password at the WNYMS. Students can be given their access credentials at school. Find the Parent Portal sign-in page here:

PARENT PORTAL SIGN-IN https://powerschool.wnyschools.net/public/

SECTION 504 COORDINATOR The Section 504 Coordinator (officer of the handicapped) for the West New York District is: Christian Cardenas, Assistant Superintendent of Special Services and Support Programs West New York Board of Education 6028 Broadway West New York, NJ 07093 201-553-4000, Ext.30028

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AFFIRMATIVE ACTION

Procedure 4111.1 Harassment Investigation Procedure

The Board does not tolerate and expressly prohibits any form of harassment based on race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, age, gender, marital status, domestic partnership status, political affiliation, liability for service in the United States Armed Forces, status as a Vietnam-era or special-disabled veteran, atypical hereditary cellular or blood trait, affectional or sexual orientation, physical or mental disability or handicap, genetic information or because of the refusal to submit to a genetic test or make available the results of a genetic test to the Board. All Board officials, executives, appointees, managers, supervisors, employees, volunteers, consultants, outside contractors and pupils alike must comply with this policy and take appropriate measures to insure that such conduct does not occur. Violations of this policy will result in disciplinary action up to and including discharge or, in the event non-employees are found to be at fault, other appropriate action. The Board having a policy for the prevention of sexual harassment, the following is the procedure for employees, pupils, outside contractors and members of the public for filing a charge of harassment, including but not limited to race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, age, gender, marital status, domestic partnership status, political affiliation, liability for service in the United States Armed Forces, status as a Vietnam-era or special-disabled veteran, atypical hereditary cellular or blood trait, affectional or sexual orientation, physical or mental disability or handicap, genetic information or because of the refusal to submit to a genetic test or make available the results of a genetic test to the Board. Procedure

1. Complainant shall notify his immediate supervisor of the complaint. If the immediate supervisor is unavailable or the target of the complaint, the Complainant shall notify the next immediate supervisor, the District’s Affirmative Action Officer, an Assistant Superintendent or the Superintendent. In the event that the Complainant is a pupil, the pupil should speak to his/her teacher, the building principal or his/her parent or guardian who shall inform the Superintendent of the complaint. 2. The Complainant shall be directed to the District’s Affirmative Action Officer who shall conduct a full investigation of the complaint. If the District’s Affirmative Action Officer is the target of the complaint, then the matter shall be directed to the Superintendent who will either conduct the investigation or designate someone other than the Affirmative Action Officer to conduct the investigation. 3. The Complainant shall complete as specifically as possible the “Complaint Form” and sign and date the form which will be held confidential. 4. The Affirmative Action Officer shall analyze the “Complaint Form”. The Affirmative Action Officer shall interview the Complainant in a timely manner. 5. The Affirmative Action Officer shall interview any witnesses identified by the Complainant. All witnesses shall complete the “Witness Statement Form”. The Affirmative Action Officer shall instruct the witnesses not to speak to anyone regarding the complaint.

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6. The Affirmative Action Officer shall inform the target of the complaint that a complaint was filed. The target shall be informed prior to this meeting that the target may bring a union or legal representative with them. The Affirmative Action Officer shall interview the target. The target is not permitted to review the complaint. The Affirmative Action Officer shall instruct the target not to speak to anyone regarding the complaint. The target is prohibited from retaliating against the Complainant. 7. The Affirmative Action Officer shall interview any witnesses identified by the target. All witnesses shall complete the “Witness Statement Form”. The Affirmative Action Officer shall instruct the witnesses not to speak to anyone regarding the complaint. The target is prohibited from retaliating against the Complainant. 8. The Affirmative Action Officer shall complete the investigation in a timely manner. The Affirmative Action Officer shall verbally inform the Complainant and target of the conclusion of the investigation and the results. 9. The Affirmative Action Officer shall submit a written report to the Superintendent or his designee. The Superintendent shall take action accordingly.

All complaints, investigations and results of investigations are considered to be confidential. Any breach of these procedures may lead to disciplinary action or, in the case of outside contractors, other appropriate action. Remedial Action If the District determines that the target is guilty of harassing the Complainant, appropriate disciplinary action will be taken against the offending employee, including the following:

1. referral to counseling; 2. verbal warning; 3. written warning; 4. reassignment; 5. suspension; 6. termination; and/or 7. referral to the criminal justice system for possible prosecution.

Retaliation It is a violation of this policy for any anyone to take reprisals against any person because she/he has filed a complaint, testified or assisted in any proceeding under this policy. Threats, other forms of intimidation, and/or retaliation against the complainant or any other party based on involvement in the complaint process may be cause for disciplinary action, including termination. However, if, after investigating any complaint of harassment, the District determines that the complaint is not bona fide, or that an employee has provided false information regarding the complaint, disciplinary action may be taken against the individual who filed the complaint or provided the false information. Constitutional Rights of Freedom of Speech Nothing in these policies is intended to infringe upon anyone’s right to express themselves as guaranteed by the Constitution of the United States or the State of New Jersey. For questions or assistance, contact: Affirmative Action Officer Scott Wohlrab, Asst. Superintendent Board of Education 6028 Broadway West New York, NJ 07093 swohlrab@wnyschools.net , Phone: 201-553-4000 x-30007

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ANTI-BULLYING POLICY

All students have a right to learn in an environment free from harassment and from retaliation for reporting harassment. Students are expected to treat each other with civility and respect. Any action that constitutes an act of intimidation, threat, extortion, or physical assault shall be considered as harassment. Acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying against any student will not be tolerated. (“Harassment, intimidation or bullying” means any gesture or written, verbal or physical act that takes place on school property, at any school-sponsored function or on a school bus and that:

➢ Is motivated by any actual or perceived characteristic, such as race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, or a mental, physical or sensory disability

➢ Has the effect of insulting or demeaning any student or group of students in such a way as to cause substantial disruption in or, substantial interference with, the orderly operation of the school.)

Violation of this policy will result in disciplinary action that may include suspension and/or a board hearing. Any student bringing a harassment complaint will not be adversely affected in terms and conditions of education, or discriminated against or disciplined as a result. Any act of reprisal or retaliation against any student who reports an act of harassment, intimidation, or bullying will also not be tolerated and will be promptly investigated and dealt with accordingly.

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STUDENT DRESS CODE

5511- DRESS AND GROOMING A. GENERAL DRESS CODE AND GROOMING

The Board of Education recognizes each pupil’s mode of dress and grooming is a manifestation of the pupil’s personal style and individual preferences. The Board will impose its judgment on pupils and parent (s) or legal guardian(s) only when a pupil’s dress and grooming affect the educational program of the schools.

Pupils may not wear clothing or engage in grooming practices that present a health or safety hazard to the individual pupil or to others; materially interfere with school work, create disorder, or disrupt the educational program; cause excessive wear or damage to school property; or prevent the pupil from achieving his/her own educational objectives because of blocked vision or restricted movement.

The Board of Education prohibits pupils from wearing, while on school property, any type of clothing, apparel or accessory which indicates that the pupil has membership in, or affiliation with, any gang associated with criminal activities. The local law enforcement agency will advise the Board, upon request, of gangs which are associated with criminal activities.

The Building Principal shall determine whether the dress or grooming of pupils comes within these prohibitions.

Staff members shall demonstrate by example and precept wholesome attitudes toward neatness, cleanliness, propriety, modesty, and good sense in attire and appearance.

The Superintendent shall, on consultation with staff members, pupils, and parent(s) or legal guardian(s), prepare a dress code that imposes only minimum and necessary limitations on a pupil’s taste and individuality.

The Board believes school dress can influence pupil behavior and enhance a school’s learning environment. Therefore, the Board adopts a School Uniform Provision of this Dress and Grooming Policy to require all pupils in the school district to wear an approved uniform shirt.

The School Uniform Provision of this Policy shall be implemented in accordance with N.J.S.A. 18A:11-7 and 18A:11-8.

B. SCHOOL UNIFORM PROVISION

The following is the school uniform policy for the District’s schools.

Shirts/tops: The following types of styled shirts are permitted: golf (polo) shirts bearing the official school insignia with identifying school name and color. Short or long sleeve styles are

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permitted. The shirts must fit properly within business standards. Each individual school shall designate, in conjunction with the Superintendent of Schools, each school’s shirt color.

Outer Garments: Coats, jackets, and outerwear, not limited to, but including hooded clothing or “hoodies”, shawls, ponchos, and raincoats cannot be worn inside the school building. Students will only be allowed to wear the solid black non-hooded fleece with the official District logo in white stitching over their uniform shirt. The fleece must be full front zippered.

Pants/bottoms: The following styles of pants or bottoms are permitted: skirts or slacks must be khaki or black in color. The pants/bottoms must fit properly within business standards and the length of the pants/bottoms shall conform to this Policy and Regulation. Pants/bottoms shall have no holes, tears or shredded hemlines. No outside labels should be seen and must be removed. Denim material, tights, leggings or other skin tight bottoms are not permitted.

Physical Education: Physical education uniforms (example: sweatpants, sweatshirt, running shorts) are not mandatory. If physical education uniforms are purchased, they must be the appropriate color for the pupil’s school. Parents are requested to purchase the correct uniform from the District’s designated provider; however, the correct uniform may be purchased wherever said clothing is sold. N.J.S.A. 18A:11-1;18A:11-7; 18A:11-8; 18A:11-9 Adopted: 8 June 2016

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WEST NEW YORK ALCOHOL/SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

5530- SUBSTANCE ABUSE (M) M The Board of Education recognizes that a student’s abuse of harmful substances seriously impedes that student’s education and threatens the welfare of the entire school community. The Board is committed to the prevention of substance abuse and the rehabilitation of substance abusers by educational means, but will take the necessary and appropriate steps to protect the school community from harm and from exposure to harmful substances. Accordingly, the Board will establish policies and procedures in operating programs to support the social, emotional, and physical development of students in accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-1 et seq. and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.1 et seq. The Board of Education will maintain a comprehensive substance abuse intervention, prevention, and treatment referral program in the schools of this district.

A. Definitions N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-9 N.J.A.C. 6A:16-1.3; 6A:16-4.1 et seq. The definitions as outlined in N.J.S.A. 18A:40A et seq., N.J.A.C. 6A:16 et seq., and those terms defined in Regulation 5530 shall be used for the purposes of this Policy and Regulation. B. Discipline N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-10; 18A:40A-11 N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.1(c)2.; 6A:16-6.3(a) The Board prohibits the use, possession, and/or distribution of alcohol or other drugs on school grounds according to N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-9, 10, and 11. A student who uses, possesses, or distributes alcohol or other drugs will be subject to discipline in accordance with the district’s Code of Student Conduct. School authorities also have the authority to impose a consequence on a student for conduct away from school grounds in accordance with the provisions of N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.5. Discipline may include suspension or expulsion. The Board will establish consequences for a student not following through on the POLICY West New York Board of Education Section: Pupils 5530. SUBSTANCE ABUSE (M) Date Created: June, 2008 Date Edited: April, 2015 West New York Page 1 of 7 http://www.straussesmay.com/seportal/secure/DistrictPolicy.aspx?policyid=5530&search=... 5/21/2015 recommendations of an evaluation for alcohol or other drug abuse and related behaviors. C. Instruction N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-1 et seq. N.J.A.C. 6A:16-3.1 The Board shall provide an instructional program on the nature of drugs, alcohol, anabolic steroids, tobacco, and controlled dangerous substances in accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-1 et seq. and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-3.1. D. Reporting, Notification, and Examination N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-11 through 18A:40A-17 N.J.A.C. 6A:16-3.1; 6A:16-4.1; 6A:16-4.2; 6A:16-4.3 1.

1. Alcohol or Other Drugs

a. Any educational staff member or other professional to whom it appears that a student may be currently under the influence of alcohol or other drugs as identified in N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-9 and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.1(a), on school grounds shall report the matter in accordance with N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.3(a)1.

b. An immediate medical examination shall be conducted and a written report of the medical evaluation shall be furnished to the parent of the student, the Principal, and the Superintendent in accordance with N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.3(a)2 through 4.3(a)8.

c. If the written report of the medical examination is not provided within twenty-four hours of the referral of the student, the student shall be allowed to return to school until such time as a positive determination of alcohol or other drug use is received from the examining physician, unless the student was also removed for violating the Code of Student Conduct.

d. If the written report of the medical evaluation verifies that alcohol or other drugs do not interfere with the student’s physical or mental ability to perform in school, the student

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shall be immediately returned to school. If there is a positive determination from the medical examination indicating the student’s alcohol or other drug use interferes with his or her physical or mental ability to perform in school, the student shall be returned to the care of the parent as soon as possible. Attendance at school shall not resume until a written report has been submitted to the parent, Principal, and Superintendent from a physician licensed to practice medicine or osteopathy who has examined the student that verifies the student’s alcohol or other West New York drug use no longer interferes with his or her physical and mental ability to perform in school.

e. Removal of a student with a disability shall be in accordance with N.J.A.C. 6A:14. f. While a student is at home because of the medical evaluation or after the student

returns to school, an appropriately certified school staff member(s) will conduct an alcohol and other drug assessment of the student and a reasonable investigation of the situation and may initiate referral alcohol or other drug abuse treatment in accordance with N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.3(a)12, 4.3(a)13, and 4.3(a)14.

g. Disclosure to law enforcement authorities of the identity of a student in instances of alcohol and other drugs shall be in accordance with the requirements of N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.3(a)3.

h. The Board may provide additional intervention and referral services for the student according to the requirements of N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-10 and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-8. 2.

2. Anabolic Steroids

a. Whenever any teaching staff member, certified or non-certified school nurse, or other educational personnel has reason to believe a student has used or may be using anabolic steroids, the person shall report the matter in accordance with N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.3(b)1.

b. The Principal or designee upon receiving such report shall immediately notify the parent and Superintendent and shall arrange for an examination of the student as soon as possible to determine whether the student has been using anabolic steroids in accordance with N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.3(b)2.

c. Disclosure to law enforcement authorities of the identity of students in instances of anabolic steroids shall be in accordance with the requirements of N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.3(b)3.

d. A written report of the examination shall be provided by the examining physician to the parent, Principal, and Superintendent.

e. If it is determined the student has used anabolic steroids, an appropriately certified school staff member(s) shall interview the student and others to determine the extent of the student’s involvement with and use of anabolic steroids and the possible need for referral for treatment in accordance with N.J.A.C. 6A:16- 4.3(b)5.

f. If the results of a referral for evaluation have positively determined the student’s involvement with and use of anabolic steroids represents a danger to the student’s health and well-being, an appropriately certified school staff member(s) shall initiate a referral for treatment to agencies and/or private practitioners as outlined in N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.3(b)6.

3 . A school employee who seizes or discovers alcohol or other drugs, or an item believed to be a controlled dangerous substance, including anabolic steroids, or drug paraphernalia, shall comply with the provisions of N.J.A.C. 6A:16-6.4.

4 . The Board will provide intervention, referral for evaluation, and referral for treatment services to those students that are affected by alcohol or other drug use in accordance with the provisions of N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.1 (c)7.

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5 . Refusal or failure by a parent to comply with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-12 and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.3 shall be treated as a policy violation of the Compulsory Education Act, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:38-25 and 31, and child neglect laws, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 9:6-1 et seq. and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-11.

6 . Refusal or failure of a student to comply with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-12 and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.3 shall be treated by the school district as a policy violation and handled in accordance with N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.1(c)2.

E. In-Service Training N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-15 The Board directs the Superintendent to

develop a program of in-service training for all teaching staff members involved in the instruction of students in accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-15. The Board will provide time for the conduct of the program during the usual school schedule. The in-service training program required in N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-15 shall be updated at regular intervals in order to ensure teaching staff members have the most current information available on this subject.

F. Parent Training Program/Outreach Program N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-16; 18A:40A-17

N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.1(c)8 The Board will provide a parent training program/outreach program in accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-16 and 17. West New York Page 4 of 7 http://www.straussesmay.com/seportal/secure/DistrictPolicy.aspx?policyid=5530&search=... 5/21/2015

G. Records and Confidentiality of Records 42 CFR Part 2 N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-7.1;

18A:40A-7.2 N.J.A.C. 6A:16-3.2; 6A:32-7.1 et seq. Notations concerning a student’s involvement with substances may be entered on his/her records, subject to N.J.A.C. 6A:32-7.1 et seq. and Policy 8330 regarding confidentiality. Information concerning a student’s involvement in a school intervention or treatment program for alcohol or other drug abuse shall be kept strictly confidential according to 42 CFR Part 2, N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-7.1 and 7.2, N.J.A.C. 6A:16-3.2, and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-6.5. If an elementary or secondary student who is participating in a school-based drug or alcohol abuse counseling program provides information during the course of a counseling session in that program which indicates that the student’s parent or other person residing in the student’s household is dependent upon or illegally using a substance as that term is defined in N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-9, that information shall be kept confidential and may be disclosed only in accordance with N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-7.1 and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-3.2 the pupil’s written consent, to another person or entity whom the pupil specifies in writing in the case of a secondary pupil, or to a member of the pupil’s immediate family or the appropriate school personnel in the case of an elementary pupil; pursuant to a court order; to a person engaged in a bona fide research purpose, except that no names or other information identifying the pupil or the person with respect to whose substance abuse the information was provided, shall be made available to the researcher; or to the Division of Protection and Permanancy or to a law enforcement agency, if the information would cause a person to reasonably suspect that the elementary or secondary pupil or another child may be an abused or neglected child.

H. Nonpublic School Students N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-5; 18A:40A-17(c) The Board has the

power and duty to loan to students attending nonpublic schools located in this district and to the parents of such students all educational materials on the nature and effects of drugs, alcohol, anabolic steroids, tobacco, and controlled dangerous substances developed and made available by the Commissioner of Education. The Board shall not be required to expend funds for the loan of these materials.

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I. Civil Immunity N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-13;, 18A:40A-14; N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.3(c) No action of any kind in any court of competent jurisdiction shall lie against any West New York Page 5 of 7 http://www.straussesmay.com/seportal/secure/DistrictPolicy.aspx?policyid=5530&search=... 5/21/2015 employee, officer, or agent of the Board because of actions taken under the education statutes on substance abuse, N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-1 et seq., provided the skill and care given is that ordinarily required and exercised by other such employees, officers, and agents of the Board in accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-13. Any educational or non-educational Board employee who in good faith reports a student to the Principal or designee in compliance with N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.3 shall not be liable in civil damages as a result of making such a report, as specified in N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-13 and 14.

J. Reporting Students to Law Enforcement Authorities N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.1; 6A:16-6.3

The Superintendent or designee shall disclose to law enforcement authorities the identity of a student reasonably believed to be in possession of a controlled dangerous substance, including anabolic steroids, or related paraphernalia or involved or implicated in distribution activities regarding controlled dangerous substances, including anabolic steroids pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.1(c)9. The Superintendent or designee shall not disclose the identity of the student who has voluntarily sought and participated in an appropriate treatment or counseling program for an alcohol or other drug abuse problem provided the student is not reasonably believed to be involved or implicated in drug-distribution activities. The Superintendent or designee may disclose to law enforcement authorities the identity of a student suspected to be under the influence of alcohol and/or other drugs, pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.1(c)9.i. Law enforcement authorities shall not be notified of the findings if a student’s alcohol or other drug test was obtained as a result of a district’s voluntary random drug testing program pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-22 et seq. and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.4.

K. Policy Review and Accessibility N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-10; 18A:40A-11 N.J.A.C.

6A:16-4.2(a) and (b) The Board will annually review the effectiveness of Policy and Regulation 5530 on student alcohol and drug abuse. The Board may solicit parent, student, and community input, as well as consult in the review process with local alcohol or other drug abuse prevention, intervention, and treatment agencies licensed by the New Jersey Department of Human Services. This Policy and Regulation shall be annually, disseminated to all school staff, students, and parents through the district website or other means. The policy and regulation shall apply to all students registered in the District, including those students which are placed in an out of District placement. All out of District placements shall be provided the District’s Substance Abuse Policy and Regulation. http://www.straussesmay.com/seportal/secure/DistrictPolicy.aspx?policyid=5530&search=... 5/21/2015 N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-1 et seq.; 18A:40A-7.1 et seq. N.J.A.C. 6A:16-1.1 et seq.; 6A:16-4.1 et seq.; 6A:16-6.1 et seq. Adopted: 14 Apri l 2015

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ACCEPTABLE USE OF COMPUTER POLICY

This is a summary of the District’s acceptable use of computer network and computer resources policy. The District requires all pupils and their parent(s) or legal guardian(s) to review the entire policy which is posted on the District’s web site and is available from any school principal. The Board of Education recognizes that as telecommunications and other new technologies shift, the manner in which information is accessed, communicated and transferred that those changes will alter the nature of teaching and learning. Access to telecommunications will allow pupils to explore databases, libraries, Internet sites, bulletin boards and the like while exchanging information with individuals throughout the world. The Board supports access by pupils to information sources but reserves the right to limit in school use to materials appropriate to educational purposes. While the Board provides access to computer network/computers for educational purposes only, it retains the right to restrict or terminate pupil access to the computer network/computers at any time, for any reason. The Board retains the right to have district personnel monitor network activity, in any form necessary, to maintain the integrity of the network and ensure its proper use. Prior to a pupil accessing any District computer, the Board requires each student to have a consent form signed by the pupil and his/her parent(s) or legal guardian(s). The Board also recognizes that telecommunications will allow pupils access to information sources that have not been pre-screened by educators using Board approved standards. The Board has adopted standards of conduct for the use of computer networks and declares unethical, unacceptable or illegal behavior as just cause for taking disciplinary action, limiting or revoking network access privileges and/or instituting legal action. These standards are fully stated in Policy and Regulation 2361. This Policy also establishes Internet safety policy and procedures in the district as required in the Neighborhood Children’s Internet Protection Act. Notwithstanding blocking and/or filtering the visual depictions prohibited in the Children’s Internet Protection Act, the Board shall determine other Internet material that is inappropriate for minors. The Board will provide reasonable public notice and will hold one annual public hearing during a regular monthly board meeting or during a designated special board meeting to address and receive public community input on the Internet safety policy - Policy and Regulation 2361. Violations of Policy 2361 include but are not limited to suspension or revocation of computer privileges, suspension or expulsion from school or prosecution by authorities.

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PUPIL SUPERVISION AFTER SCHOOL DISMISSAL DISTRICT POLICY 8601

Any parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of a student in grades Pre-Kindergarten to twelve may request the school or program not release the student to walk home after dismissal unless the pupil is released to the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) or escort(s) designated by the parent(s) or legal guardian(s). The parent(s) or legal guardian(s) may designate up to three escorts. The parent(s) or legal guardian(s) requesting their child(ren) only be released to a parent(s) or legal guardian(s) or parent(s) or legal guardian(s)-designated escort after dismissal must submit a completed Request for Supervision at Dismissal from School Form to the Principal or designee, or program administrator.

The Form shall be made available in the Main office of the school building or the location of the program; upon request to the Principal, or designee, or the program administrator; on the school or school district website; and to parent(s) or legal guardian(s) in the beginning of the school year. All parents or legal guardians must complete the Request Form and return the form to the school along with the student acknowledgement that this Student Handbook was received.

District Policy 8601 PUPIL SUPERVISION AFTER SCHOOL DISMISSAL is posted on the District website in its entirety for review.

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