MECHANICSBURG MIDDLE SCHOOLStudent Handbook 2018-2019

TABLE OF CONTENTSGENERAL INFORMATIONAlma Mater, Bell Schedule, Mission Statement…............................................... 2Contact Information…...............................................….......................................3

ACADEMIC POLICIESAthletic and Extracurricular Eligibility...............................................................3Enrollment, Withdrawal, and Transfer................................................................4College Credit Plus, Online Classes…................................................................ 4-5Courses Earning High School Credit………………………………………………...5Honor Rolls..........................................................................................................5

ATTENDANCE POLICIES AND PROCEDURESReporting Student Absences, Excused/Unexcused Absences...............................6-8Military, Vacation, Tardies, Leaving School, Make up Work ….........................8Truancy, Sign In and Out ....................................................................................9-10

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCTStudent Rights and Responsibilities..................................................................... 9-10Hazing, Bullying, Harassment............................................................................. 10-17Student Code of Conduct..................................................................................... 17-19Methods of Discipline….......................................................................................19-20

Detention............................................................................................20-21Friday Detention, ISS, OSS, Appeals............................................. 20-21Expulsion........................................................................................... 21

Search and Seizure, Student Grievance............................................................... 21-22Transportation..................................................................................................... 22

STUDENT DRESS AND GROOMING GUIDELINESGuidelines............................................................................................................ 22-23

OTHER SCHOOL POLICIES AND PROCEDURESEnrollment, Administration of Medication, Immunizations& Medical Records 23-24Wireless Communication Devices........................................................................

24-25Chromebook Guidelines…................................................................................... 26School Fees, Fundraisers, Dances.......................................................................

26Field Trips............................................................................................................26

Washington DC and Kirkmont information…................................... 26Leaving School and the End of the Day...............................................................27Lockers.................................................................................................................27Lost and Found.................................................................................................... 27School Delays and Closings.................................................................................

27Student Transportation........................................................................................ 27Visitors................................................................................................................. 27Drug and Alcohol Policies, All Students..............................................................

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ACCEPTABLE USE AND INTERNET SAFETY POLICYGuidelines............................................................................................................ 32-34

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POSTINGS/NOTICESPesticides, Video Surveillance, Positive Behavior Supports .............................. 34

MECHANICSBURG MIDDLE SCHOOL60 High Street – Mechanicsburg, Ohio 43044

(937) 834-2453 – Fax (937) 834-3954www.mechanicsburg.k12.oh.us

District Mission Statement The Mission of the Mechanicsburg Exempted Village Schools is to challenge students to reach their potential while instilling a sense of pride, responsibility, creativity, and self-discipline for future success.

District GoalsGoal #1 Prioritize student learning and achievement for ALL students.Goal #2 Maintain a Fiscally Responsible District.Goal #3 Focus on Customer Service, Relationships and School Safety.

NONDISCRIMINATION AND ACCESS TO EQUAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY

Any person who believes that s/he has been discriminated against or denied equal opportunity or access to programs or services may file a complaint, which may be referred to as a grievance, with the District’s Civil Rights Coordinator.

- Superintendent (See Policy 3122B)

School Colors Purple and GoldMascot IndiansLeague Affiliation Ohio Heritage Conference

BELL SCHEDULE 7:10 am Doors Open 7:20 am Tardy Bell 7:20 am - 8:45 am Period 1 8:49 am - 10:09 am Period 210:13 am – 10:43 am Lunch10:47 am – 12:07 pm Period 3 12:11 pm – 12:48 pm (NNI/Mentor)12:52 pm – 1:32 pm Elective A 1:35 pm – 2:15 pm Elective B2:15 pm Dismissal

ALMA MATERHere's to our dear old hill top high school

Here's to the purple and gold.Rally around her and protect her.Sing of her honor praise untold.

Here let us gather as we go.Wisdom and truth which we should know.

Here wave her banner and let it blow.Purple and gold on high.

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Here's to our gold and purple banner.Here's to the high school on the hill.

Glory and praise we’ll always bring her.Raise her banner, wave it still.

Administration Mrs. Danielle Prohaska, Superintendent (ext. 1402)

Mr. Scott Maruniak, Treasurer (ext. 1403)Mrs. Marlo Schipfer, Middle School Principal (ext. 1507)

Ms. Carol Carpenter, Guidance Counselor (ext. 1405)Mrs. Mary J. Huffman, Director of Academic Accountability (ext. 1602)

Mr. Coby Wilhelm, Director of Athletics and Facilities (ext. 1057)Ms. Ce Greene, Special Education Coordinator (ext. 1110)

Mr. Eric Griffith. Director of Information Technology (ext. 1217)

Board of EducationMr. Scott DeLongMr. Brian ForrestMr. Paul McMahillMrs. Mea Reiser Dr. Scott Wolf

Building SecretariesMrs. Elizabeth Porter, Central Office (Ext. 1400)Ms. Mandee Warfield, Middle School Secretary (ext. 1200)Athletics & Guidance Secretary (Ext. 1503)

Visit www.mcburg. org to view all Board of Education Policies and Administrative Guidelines

Lunch Price for MMS: $3.00

ACADEMIC POLICIES

Athletic and Extracurricular EligibilityFrom OHSAA – (ohsaa.org)● If a student enrolled in grade 7 or 8 attains the age of 15 before August 1, the

student shall be ineligible to participate in 7th & 8th grade interscholastic athletics for the school year commencing in that calendar year.

● A student must be passing 5 courses in which they are enrolled, and no more than one “F”.

Enrollment, Withdrawal, and Transfer Procedures When a student plans to move from this school district during the school year, please notify the office prior to the move in order to quickly forward a student's records to the new school district. Parents are not permitted to hand-carry a student's records to another school. A parent will complete a records request form when enrolling their student in the new school. Mechanicsburg will mail the records to the new school. Any student’s records/information are handled according to the FERPA (Federal Education Rights and Privacy Act). Certain records will not be released if all school fees have not been paid.

When a student under the age of 18 withdraws from school without moving out- of-state, transferring to another school, or enrolling in and attending an approved program, the Superintendent may notify the Registrar of Motor Vehicles and the Juvenile Court Judge.

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Such notification is to be given within two weeks after the Superintendent confirms that the student is not properly enrolled in and attending another approved school and/or program or that the student has moved out-of- state. Students under 18 years of age must attend school or have a valid work permit and a full-time job (minimum 30 hours per week).

Open Enrollment Students enrolled in the open enrollment program must submit an application on an annual basis.  All district regulations must be followed and time-lines met.  Applications are available in the superintendent’s office.  Families of athletes should also consider and review Athletic Eligibility and guidelines found on the OHSAA website. (www.ohsaa.org) (For more information, see Policy 5113)

Online ClassesOnline classes are arranged through the principal. Online classes are for credit. Some online classes will be pass/fail while others will calculate in the student’s G.P.A. Online classes that are not completed by the end of the semester will result in an “F” being posted on the students’ grade card. Online class participation will be at the discretion of the principal and guidelines based on State rules and regulations.

College Credit Plus (CCP) –The Board of Education recognizes the value to students and to the District for students to participate in programs offered by accredited colleges and universities in Ohio.

The following guidelines have been established in accordance with Board policy and the rules of the State Department of Education.

All students have the option of taking college courses for high school and college credit at area colleges or universities. Students wishing to take the College Credit Plus must notify the high school office by April 1st for the following school year. Each college and university has established eligibility requirements based on test scores for college readiness.

Failure to meet this deadline shall exclude the student from the program for that school year unless a written waiver is granted by the Superintendent. Participation may be withdrawn by the student or parent at any time upon written notification to the high school administration.

Prior to March 1, the school will provide information about the College Credit Plus program to all students in grades 7-12. An informational session will be held and all colleges and universities within a 30-mile radius will be invited to attend before March 30.

A student who has been expelled by this Board is ineligible to enroll during the period of expulsion. In accordance with Board policy, the Board may deny high school credit for postsecondary courses any portion of which are taken during the period of a student’s expulsion. If the student has elected to receive credit for course(s) toward fulfilling graduation requirements as well as postsecondary credit, that election is automatically revoked for all college courses in which the student enrolled during the college term in which the expulsion is imposed.

Students must identify the appropriate college course enrollment option prior to the start of the first class session of the fall quarter or semester at the college. Once the first class session of the term has been held, the student may not change the option selected during the period of that school year, regardless of the number of courses taken.

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Reasonable efforts will be made in scheduling to accommodate the needs of students who will be leaving the high school campus in order to participate in this program. However, scheduling conflicts are not the responsibility of the District. Revising the master schedule and/or unduly overloading classes are not required in order to accommodate schedule requests. Responsibility for transportation rests with the student.

CCP Financial ArrangementsStudents who elect to take the college course for college credit only will have the financial responsibility for tuition, books, materials, and fees. The Board accepts no financial responsibility for those students who will be paying for their own tuition, fees, or books. Those arrangements are between the college and the student and/or his/her parents

Students assume no financial obligations if they elect to take the college course for college and high school credit. Tuition, books, materials, and fees are assumed by the Board. Should students fail to complete a course taken for credit (whether through a formal "class drop" process or through nonattendance reasons other than those normally accepted by the school administration) any and all financial obligations assumed by the Board will default to the students and their parents. Classes failed or withdrawn with an “F” will receive an “F” on the high school and college transcripts and will be computed into the high school and college GPA. The school district may withhold grades and credits received for high school courses taken until reimbursement has been made.

CCP Consequences of Failing or Not Completing a CourseIf students withdraw from the college course within the first two (2) weeks of the course, they will be rescheduled for the appropriate high school courses, and no record of the college course will appear on the transcript.  However, if students withdraw from the college courses after two (2) weeks of the classes, the course will appear on the transcript and will carry a grade of Withdrawn/Failing, which will be computed in the same manner as a failing grade on the high school transcript.

Any course taken for high school credit at a college or university and completed (or recorded as Withdrawn/Failing) will be clearly identified on the transcript along with the name of the college and where the work was undertaken.

CCP Grade Point Computation and Reporting of GradeFor those college courses taken for high school credit, the grade for that course will be computed at the end of the next regular grading period at the high school following the receipt of an official transcript from the college. All grades to be entered on the high school transcript must be taken from an official transcript from the college. Should there be an urgent need for a letter grade; notification on official letterhead from the college instructor advising of the grade will be accepted to verify the grade. (See 2271 Policy and Administrative Guidelines for more information)

CCP effects athletic eligibility. It takes five Carnegie units each quarter to be eligible. These grades have to be reported to the OHSAA by 10/23/18, 12/20/18 & 3/26/19.  If a student is relying on a college class to fulfill this requirement they are responsible for obtaining these grades.

Courses Earning High School CreditAny course taken that will issue high school credit, grades will count towards high school GPA. Please see the High School handbook for credit and GPA values.

Honor Rolls: Any student whose GPA is 3.75 or higher and receives no grade lower than A- will be named to the High Honors List. Any student whose GPA is between 3.00 and

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3.74 and receives no grade lower than B- will be named to the Honor Roll.

ATTENDANCE (Policy 5200)The educational program offered by this District is predicated upon the presence of the student and requires continuity of instruction and classroom participation.  Attendance shall be required of all students enrolled in the schools during the days and hours that the school is in session.

Reporting Student Absences Parents are requested to call the school and report their child’s absence by 8:00 am each day. Parents may do so by calling the Middle School Absence Hotline at 937.834.2453 and choose #4 from the main menu or via email to: MMS-attendance@mcburg.org. Section 3313.205 of the Ohio Revised Code requires school districts to adopt policies notifying parents when a student is absent. If parents do not notify the school each day that their child(ren) are absent, the school is required to contact you by telephone or letter to verify the child's absence.

In accordance with statute, the Superintendent shall require, from the parent of each student of compulsory school age or from an adult student who has been absent from school or from class for any reason, a written statement properly signed and dated by a parent/guardian of the cause for such absence.  The Board of Education reserves the right to verify such statements and to investigate the cause of each single absence or prolonged absence.

Repeated infractions of Board policy on attendance may result in charges filed against the student/parent.If within five (5) school days after returning to school following an absence, written documentation has not been received, the absence will be “unexcused”.

● The parent/guardian (and not the school) maintains responsibility to make certain the telephone call and/or absence is submitted to the proper school attendance authority in a timely fashion.

● If the parent/guardian fails to contact the school and school personnel initiates contact with the parent/guardian via one call, the absence will still be considered unexcused until parent/guardian makes direct contact with school personnel to verify student’s absence.

If a student is absent two (2) days without notice, the school reserves the right to send District Attendance Officer to the student’s residence for inquiry. Call the District Attendance Officer, Brooke Perry (937-869-1035) for further information.

Attendance need not always be within the school facilities, but a student will be considered to be in attendance if present at any place where school is in session by authority of the Board.

At the discretion of the Superintendent or his/her designee, a student may be excused for a longer period of time than 52 hours if a child’s parent/guardian has recently died or become totally or partially incapacitated and there is no older brother or sister living in the home who is out of school. (The Superintendent may request a certificate of a physician attesting to the physical condition of the parent/guardian.)

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Excused Absences: When a student is absent, they are required to provide written documentation explaining the absence via parent/guardian or professional documentation. (See below for excused/unexcused reasons)  A parent/guardian may submit written documentation for reason of absence(s) not to exceed 52 hours. Any students who exceed 52 hours parental/guardian absences will be required to provide professional documentation stating the reason for absence.  Failure to do so will result in the absence being counted as unexcused.

Nothing contained in this attendance regulation is intended nor should be construed as restricting the discretion of school officials to make such inquiries and request such verification/documentation as is reasonably necessary to determine if an absence is for any of the reasons identified in this regulation as “Excused Absences”.

Note:  *Excused absences as outlined in the first column will not be counted in the 52 hours parental absences.     

Excused: Professional Documentation● Medical or dental appointments (partial days, in most cases).● Death/Funeral of immediate family member.● Quarantine of the home.● Appointments for court (partial days, in most cases).

Excused: Parental Absence● Personal illness or injury.● Observation or celebration of a bona fide religious holiday.● Pre-approved absences. (vacation, educational field trips)● Head lice. Children excluded from school due to head lice are allowed one (1)

excused on two (2) separate occasions in a school year.● Emergencies and other reasons deemed good and sufficient by the

superintendent and/or designee.

UnexcusedThe school administration will make the final decision whether an absence/tardy is excused or unexcused. In general, unexcused absences/tardies include (but are not limited to):

● Missing the school bus.● Experiencing transportation problems at home or on the way to school.● Remaining at home to complete school assignments.● Missing school without legitimate illness.● Oversleeping, “alarm clock failed to work.”● “My mom didn’t get me up.”● Not having suitable clothing to wear to school.● Working at a job during the school day without a proper work permit.● Babysitting.● Any form of recreation (unless pre-approved absence days).● Personal business that can be done after school or on weekends.● “Helping at home” or “Was needed at home.”● “I had a game last night.”

Medical ExcusesMedical excuses are acceptable documentation of an absence or tardy to school following a personal, in-office or hospital examination by a physician, nurse practitioner, or

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physician assistant. Physicians, et.al, may only excuse absences or tardies to school for the specific date(s) the student was under his/her direct medical care, during which the student was medically unable to attend school. Excessive medical excuses may result in the school contacting the physician’s office for additional medical documentation.

Military Provision: Students may receive up to 32 additional excused absence hours (5 days) per school year for the purpose of attending the deployment or return of a military parent/sibling.  These days shall be approved in advance by the principal and will not count against the normal 52 hour absences provision.  Additional days of excused absences may be approved by the principal in special circumstances. Parents must inform the principal in writing, at least 5 school days prior to the absence(s).

VacationVacations during the school year are discouraged: however, in situations where a parent’s vacation schedules necessitate a student being absent from school, the following guidelines must be met:

1. Parents must inform the principal in writing, at least 5 school days prior to the absence(s), with the dates and the nature of the trip.

2. The student is expected to obtain assignments prior to leaving and will be due upon return when feasible.

3. If no contact is made, the day(s) will be unexcused.4. Up to 32 hours per school year can be excused for vacation.5. Vacations will NOT be approved during testing windows.

**Vacation days are included in the 52 hours official absences

Un-excused AbsencesStudents accruing unexcused absences will be handled on the following schedule:

● 18 unexcused hours = Friday Night School and Mandatory Meeting with District Attendance Officer and Absence Intervention Team to develop Absence Intervention Plan

● 36 unexcused hours = Friday Night School and Mandatory Meeting with District Attendance Officer

● 54 unexcused hours = 2 Friday Night Schools● 72 unexcused hours = 2 Friday Night Schools and truancy charges filed in

juvenile court** If a student is absent for unexcused reasons, they are not permitted to attend school sponsored events; including sporting events.

TardiesStudents accruing unexcused tardies will be handled on the following schedule:

● 3rd unexcused tardy = detention● 6th unexcused tardy = detention● 9th unexcused tardy = Extended detention● 12th unexcused tardy = Extended detention● 15th unexcused tardy = Friday Night School● 18th unexcused tardy = Friday Night School and Mandatory Meeting with

District Attendance Officer

Leaving School/Early Dismissal A student must have prior written parent permission to leave the school premises and sign out in the main office. The note must be signed by a parent or guardian and must contain a telephone number where a parent/guardian and/or doctor may be reached for verification. Due to security purposes, student dismissals cannot be taken over the phone. Notifications can be accepted by Fax, e-mail, or written note by parent/guardian.

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Make Up WorkStudents are responsible for securing assignments and making up all schoolwork they miss. As a general rule, for each day absent, students will have 2 school days in which to complete and turn in all missed work but teachers and administrators have the discretion to adjust these deadlines to support the learning needs of students. All assignments, including tests, quizzes, etc., must be made up as directed by the individual teacher. Truancy: Truancy charges may be filed against students who become habitual truants. “Contributing” charges may be filed against the parent(s)/guardian(s)

Habitual Truancy (Unruly) = ● Absent 30 or more consecutive hours without a legitimate excuse.● Absent 42 or more hours in one month without a legitimate excuse.● Absent 72 or more hours in one year without a legitimate excuse.

If a student has excessive absences, the district will implement and require participation in an absence intervention plan. If the student does not make progress on the plan within 61 days or continues to be excessively absent, the district will file a complaint in the juvenile court.

Excessive Absences = ● Absent 38 or more hours in one school month with or without a

legitimate excuse.● Absent 65 or more hours in one school year with or without a legitimate

excuse.

Students admitting to the truancy charge or adjudicated as unruly/delinquent for truancy (and parents/guardians who have pled or been found guilty of a “contributing” charge) may be ordered by the Juvenile Court to accumulate no further unexcused absences or tardies. A violation of Court Order or Community Control Violation may be filed against the student/parent/guardian for future unexcused absences or tardies.  Juvenile Court may retain jurisdiction of students until they graduate, obtain their GED or attain 21 years of age.

A "legitimate excuse for absence from the public school the child is supposed to attend" includes, but is not limited to, any of the following:

(a) The fact that the child in question has enrolled in and is attending another public or nonpublic school in this or another state;

(b) The fact that the child in question is excused from attendance at school for any of the reasons specified in section 3321.04 of the Revised Code;

(c) The fact that the child in question has received an age and schooling certificate in accordance with section 3331.01 of the Revised Code.

If a student is habitually truant, and the student’s parent has failed to cause the student’s attendance, the Board authorizes the Superintendent to file a complaint with the Judge of the Juvenile Court.

In order to address the attendance practices of a student who is habitually truant, the Board authorizes the Superintendent to take any of the following intervention actions:

A. assign the student to a truancy intervention programB. provide counseling to the studentC. request or require the student’s parent to attend a parental involvement programD. request or require a parent to attend a truancy prevention mediation programE. notify the Registrar of Motor Vehicles of the student’s absencesF. take appropriate legal action

The Superintendent is authorized to establish an educational program for parents of truant

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students which is designed to encourage parents to ensure that their children attend school regularly.  Any parent who does not complete the program is to be reported to law enforcement authorities for parental education neglect, a fourth class misdemeanor if found guilty.

The Superintendent shall develop administrative guidelines that:

A. establish proper procedures so the student and his/her parents are provided the opportunity to challenge the attendance record prior to notification and that such notification complies with R.C. 3321.13 (B)(2);

B. establish a school session which is in conformity with the requirements of the rules of the State Board;

C. govern the keeping of attendance records in accordance with the rules of the State Board;

D. identify the habitual truant, investigate the cause(s) of his/her behavior, and consider modification of his/her educational program to meet particular needs and interests;

E. provide students whose absence has been excused an opportunity to make up work they missed and receive credit for the work, if completed;

F. refer for evaluation any student who, due to a specifically identifiable physical or mental impairment, exceeds or may exceed the District's limit on excused absence to determine eligibility either under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, or other appropriate accommodation.

Sign In & Sign Out GuidelinesStudents who do not attend school are not permitted to participate in school functions on that day. This includes trips, dances, practices, contests, concerts or ceremonies. If a student presents a Dr. note excusing the absence or Funeral memory card/obituary for the absence these generally are exceptions. A student attending a partial day must be present for a minimum of two 80 minute periods to be permitted to participate in the events listed above.

The principal has the final decision on attendance occurrences and how they are coded.

Beginning with the 2017-18 school year, Champaign County schools have implemented a countywide attendance policy.  Attendance and Absence Intervention Plans will transfer from county school to county school.

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT Student Rights and ResponsibilitiesStudents are entitled to basic civil liberties guaranteed to other citizens, such as freedom of expression, association, assembly, and the right to petition.  Furthermore, the school community is entitled to responsible action in the exercise of these civil liberties. Therefore, the purpose of the school is not only to encourage the exercise of these liberties, but also to develop a sense of responsibility and good citizenship within its students. These responsibilities include respect for the rights of others, obedience to properly constituted school authority, and compliance with the guidelines and rules of the District.

This Student Code of Conduct meets the intent of the Ohio Revised Code which requires a Board of Education to adopt rules and regulations designed to maintain order and discipline necessary for effective learning. The Board’s primary concern is that students

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who wish to learn can do so in an environment conducive to learning and that every disciplinary and prescriptive means, be employed on behalf of those who would destroy or deny such an environment.

Any pupil engaging in conduct outlined in this Code of Conduct is subject to appropriate disciplinary action and due process rights pursuant to Section 3313.661 of the Ohio Revised Code. Students subject to suspension must be given both written notice of his/her suspension, the reasons for the suspension, and the opportunity to respond to the charges against him/her prior to the suspension. The decision may be appealed to the Superintendent. Students subject to expulsion and his/her parent or guardian must be given written notice of the intention to expel, the reasons for the expulsion, and the opportunity to appear with a representative before the Superintendent to answer the charges. The decision of the Superintendent in matters of suspension and expulsion will be final.

This Code of Conduct applies to all Mechanicsburg Schools property, transportation, the property of employees of Mechanicsburg Schools. Its provisions shall be applicable during regularly scheduled school hours and related activities both at school and away from school.

Hazing (Policy 5516)Hazing activities of any type are inconsistent with and disruptive to the educational process and prohibited at any time in school facilities, on school property, and/or off school property if the misconduct is connected to activities or incidents that have occurred on school property. No administrator, faculty member, or other Board of Education employee shall encourage, permit, authorize, condone, or tolerate any hazing activities. No student shall plan, encourage, or engage in any hazing.

Hazing is defined as performing any act or coercing another, including the victim, to perform any act of initiation into any class, team, or organization that causes or creates a substantial risk of causing mental or physical harm. Permission, consent, or assumption of risk by an individual subjected to hazing shall not lessen the prohibitions contained in this policy.

Administrators, faculty members, and other employees of the Board shall be alerted to possible situations, circumstances, or events that might include hazing. If hazing or planned hazing is discovered, the students involved shall be informed by the discoverer of the prohibitions contained in this policy and shall be ordered to end all hazing activities or planned activities immediately. All hazing incidents shall be reported immediately to the Superintendent. Students, administrators, faculty members, and other employees who fail to abide by this policy may be subject to disciplinary action and may be held personally liable for civil and criminal penalties in accordance with law.

The Superintendent shall distribute this policy to all students and Board employees, and shall incorporate it into building, staff, and student handbooks. It shall also be the subject of discussion at employee staff meetings or in-service programs.

Administrators, staff members and volunteers shall not intentionally remain ignorant of hazing or potential hazing activities.R.C. 2307.44, 2903.31, 3313.661

The prohibition against hazing, harassment, intimidation or bullying is publicized in student handbooks and in the publications that set the standard of conduct for schools and students in the District. In addition, information regarding the policy is incorporated into employee handbooks and training materials.

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Bullying and Other Forms of Aggressive Behavior (Policy 5517)The Board of Education is committed to providing a safe, positive, productive, and nurturing educational environment for all of its students. The Board encourages the promotion of positive interpersonal relations between members of the school community.

Harassment, intimidation, or bullying toward a student, whether by other students, staff, or third parties is strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated. This prohibition includes aggressive behavior, physical, verbal, and psychological abuse, and violence within a dating relationship. The Board will not tolerate any gestures, comments, threats, or actions which cause or threaten to cause bodily harm or personal degradation. This policy applies to all activities in the District, including activities on school property or while enroute to or from school, and those occurring off school property if the student or employee is at any school-sponsored, school-approved or school-related activity or function, such as field trips or athletic events where students are under the school's control, in a school vehicle, or where an employee is engaged in school business.

This policy has been developed in consultation with parents, District employees, volunteers, students, and community members as prescribed in R.C. 3313.666 and the State Board of Education's Model Policy.

Harassment, intimidation, or bullying means:A. any intentional written, verbal, graphic, or physical act that a student or group of students exhibits toward another particular student(s) more than once and the behavior both causes mental or physical harm to the other student(s) and is sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating, threatening, or abusive educational environment for the other student(s); orB. violence within a dating relationship.

Aggressive behavior is defined as inappropriate conduct that is repeated enough, or serious enough, to negatively impact a student's educational, physical, or emotional well being. This type of behavior is a form of intimidation and harassment, although it need not be based on any of the legally protected characteristics, such as sex, race, color, national origin, marital status, or disability. It would include, but not be limited to, such behaviors as stalking, bullying/cyberbullying, intimidating, menacing, coercion, name calling, taunting, making threats, and hazing.

Harassment, intimidation, or bullying also means electronically transmitted acts (i.e., internet, e-mail, cellular telephone, personal digital assistance (PDA), or wireless hand-held device) that a student(s) or a group of students exhibits toward another particular student(s) more than once and the behavior both causes mental and physical harm to the other student and is sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating, threatening, or abusive educational environment for the other student(s).

Any student or student's parent/guardian who believes s/he has been or is the victim of aggressive behavior should immediately report the situation to the building principal or assistant principal, or the Superintendent. The student may also report concerns to teachers and other school staff who will be responsible for notifying the appropriate administrator or Board official. Complaints against the building principal should be filed with the Superintendent. Complaints against the Superintendent should be filed with the Board President.

Every student is encouraged, and every staff member is required, to report any situation that they believe to be aggressive behavior directed toward a student. Reports may be made to those identified above.

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All complaints about aggressive behavior that may violate this policy shall be promptly investigated. The building principal or appropriate administrator shall prepare a written report of the investigation upon completion. Such report shall include findings of fact, a determination of whether acts of harassment, intimidation, and/or bullying were verified, and, when prohibited acts are verified, a recommendation for intervention, including disciplinary action shall be included in the report. Where appropriate, written witness statements shall be attached to the report.

If the investigation finds an instance of harassment, intimidation, and/or bullying has occurred, it will result in prompt and appropriate remedial and/or disciplinary action. This may include up to expulsion for students, up to discharge for employees, exclusion for parents, guests, volunteers, and contractors, and removal from any official position and/or a request to resign for Board members. Individuals may also be referred to law enforcement officials.

Retaliation against any person who reports, is thought to have reported, files a complaint, or otherwise participates in an investigation or inquiry concerning allegations of aggressive behavior is prohibited and will not be tolerated. Such retaliation shall be considered a serious violation of Board policy and independent of whether a complaint is substantiated. Suspected retaliation should be reported in the same manner as aggressive behavior. Making intentionally false reports about aggressive behavior for the purpose of getting someone in trouble is similarly prohibited and will not be tolerated. Retaliation and intentionally false reports may result in disciplinary action as indicated above.

If a student or other individual believes there has been aggressive behavior, regardless of whether it fits a particular definition, s/he should report it and allow the administration to determine the appropriate course of action.

This policy shall not be interpreted to infringe upon the First Amendment rights of students (i.e., to prohibit a reasoned and civil exchange of opinions, or debate, that is conducted at appropriate times and places during the school day and is protected by State or Federal law).

The complainant shall be notified of the findings of the investigation, and as appropriate, that remedial action has been taken. If after investigation, acts of bullying against a specific student are verified, the building principal or appropriate administrator shall notify the parent/guardian of the victim of such finding. In providing such notification care shall be taken to respect the statutory privacy rights of the perpetrator of such harassment, intimidation, and/or bullying.

If after investigation, acts of harassment, intimidation, and/or bullying by a specific student are verified, the building principal or appropriate administrator shall notify in writing the parent/guardian of the perpetrator of that finding. If disciplinary consequences are imposed against such student, a description of such discipline shall be included in the notification.

ComplaintsStudents and/or their parents/guardians may file reports regarding suspected harassment, intimidation, or bullying. Such reports shall be reasonably specific including person(s) involved, number of times and places of the alleged conduct, the target of suspected harassment, intimidation, and/or bullying, and the names of any potential student or staff witnesses. Such reports may be filed with any school staff member or administrator, and they shall be promptly forwarded to the building principal for review, investigation, and action.

Students, parents/guardians, and school personnel may make informal complaints of conduct that they consider to be harassment, intimidation, and/or bullying by verbal

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report to a teacher, school administrator, or other school personnel. Such informal complaints shall be reasonably specific including person(s) involved, number of times and places of the alleged conduct, the target of suspected harassment, intimidation, and/or bullying, and the names of any potential student or staff witnesses. A school staff member or administrator who receives an informal complaint shall promptly document the complaint in writing, including the information provided. This written report shall be promptly forwarded by the school staff member and/or administrator to the building principal for review, investigation, and appropriate action.Students who make informal complaints as provided above may request that their name be maintained in confidence by the school staff member(s) and administrator(s) who receive the complaint. Anonymous complaints shall be reviewed and reasonable action shall be taken to address the situation, to the extent such action may be taken that (1) does not disclose the source of the complaint, and (2) is consistent with the due process rights of the student(s) alleged to have committed acts of harassment, intimidation, and/or bullying.

When a student making an informal complaint has requested anonymity, the investigation of such complaint shall be limited as is appropriate in view of the anonymity of the complaint. Such limitation of investigation may include restricting action to a simple review of the complaint subject to receipt of further information and/or the withdrawal by the complaining student of the condition that his/her report be anonymous.

Privacy/ConfidentialityThe School District will respect the privacy of the complainant, the individual(s) against whom the complaint is filed, and the witnesses as much as possible, consistent with the Board’s legal obligations to investigate, to take appropriate action, and to conform with any discovery or disclosure obligations. All records generated under this policy and its related administrative guidelines shall be maintained as confidential to the extent permitted by law.

ImmunityA School District employee, student, or volunteer shall be individually immune from liability in a civil action for damages arising from reporting an incident in accordance with this policy and R.C. 3313.666 if that person reports an incident of harassment, intimidation, and/or bullying promptly, in good faith, and in compliance with the procedures specified in this policy. Such immunity from liability shall not apply to an employee, student, or volunteer determined to have made an intentionally false report about harassment, intimidation, and/or bullying.

Education and TrainingStudents in grades seven (7) and eight (8) shall receive age-appropriate instruction in dating violence prevention education, including instruction in recognizing dating violence warning signs and characteristics of healthy relationships. Parents, who submit a written request to the building principal to examine the dating violence prevention instruction materials used in the school, will be afforded an opportunity to review the materials within a reasonable period of time.

School Personnel Responsibilities and Complaint ProceduresHarassing, hazing, intimidating and/or bullying behavior by any student/school personnel in the District is strictly prohibited, and such conduct may result in disciplinary action, including suspension and/or expulsion from school.  Harassment, hazing, intimidation and/or bullying means any intentional written, verbal, graphic or physical acts, including electronically transmitted acts, either overt or covert, by a student or group of students toward other students/school personnel with the intent to haze, harass, intimidate, injure, threaten, ridicule or humiliate.  Such behaviors are prohibited on or immediately adjacent to school grounds, at any school-sponsored activity; in any District publication; through

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the use of any District-owned or operated communication tools, including but not limited to District e-mail accounts and/or computers;  on school-provided transportation or at any official school bus stop.

Hazing, harassment, intimidation or bullying can include many different behaviors. Examples of conduct that could constitute prohibited behaviors include, but are not limited to:

1. physical violence and/or attacks;2. threats, taunts and intimidation through words and/or gestures;3. extortion, damage or stealing of money and/or possessions;4. exclusion from the peer group or spreading rumors;5. repetitive and hostile behavior with the intent to harm others through the use of

information and communication technologies and other web-based/online sites (also known as “cyber bullying”), such as the following:

posting slurs on web sites, social networking sites, blogs or personal online journals; sending abusive or threatening emails, web site postings or comments and instant

messages; using camera phones to take embarrassing photographs or videos of students and/or

distributing or posting the photos or videos online and using web sites, social networking sites, blogs or personal online journals, e-mails or

instant messages to circulate gossip and rumors to other students.6. excluding others from an online group by falsely reporting them for

inappropriate language to Internet service providers.

In evaluating whether conduct constitutes hazing or bullying, special attention is paid to the words chosen or the actions taken, whether such conduct occurred in front of others or was communicated to others, how the perpetrator interacted with the victim and the motivation, either admitted or appropriately inferred.

Teachers and Other School StaffTeachers and other school staff who witness acts of harassment, hazing, intimidation and/or bullying, as defined above, promptly notify the building principal/designee of the event observed, and promptly file a written incident report concerning the events witnessed.Teachers and other school staff who receive student or parent reports of suspected hazing, harassment, intimidation and/or bullying promptly notify the building principal/designee of such report(s).  If the report is a formal, written complaint, the complaint is forwarded to the building principal/designee no later than the next school day.  If the report is an informal complaint by a student that is received by a teacher or other professional employee, he/she prepares a written report of the informal complaint that is forwarded to the building principal/designee no later than the next school day.

Intervention StrategiesTeachers and Other School StaffIn addition to addressing both informal and formal complaints, school personnel are encouraged to address the issue of harassment, hazing, intimidation and/or bullying in other interactions with students.

School personnel may find opportunities to educate students about harassment, hazing, intimidation and bullying and help eliminate such prohibited behaviors through class discussions, counseling and reinforcement of socially appropriate behavior.  School personnel should intervene promptly whenever they observe student conduct that has the purpose or effect of ridiculing, humiliating or intimidating another student/school personnel, even if such conduct does not meet the formal definition of harassment, hazing, intimidation or bullying.

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Administrator ResponsibilitiesInvestigationThe principal/designee is notified of any formal or informal complaint of suspected harassment, hazing, intimidation or bullying.  Under the direction of the building principal/designee, all such complaints are investigated promptly.  A written report of the investigation is prepared when the investigation is complete. The report includes findings of fact, a determination of whether acts of harassment, hazing, intimidation and/or bullying were verified, and when prohibited acts are verified, a recommendation for intervention, including disciplinary action, is included in the report.  Where appropriate, written witness statements are attached to the report.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, when a student making an informal complaint has requested anonymity, the investigation of such complaint is limited as is appropriate in view of the anonymity of the complaint.  Such limitation of the investigation may include restricting action to a simple review of the complaint (with or without discussing it with the alleged perpetrator), subject to receipt of further information and/or the withdrawal by the complaining student of the condition that his/her report be anonymous.

Non-disciplinary InterventionsWhen verified acts of harassment, hazing, intimidation and/or bullying are identified early and/or when such verified acts do not reasonably require a disciplinary response, students may be counseled as to the definition of the behavior, its prohibition and their duty to avoid any conduct that could be considered harassing, hazing, intimidating and/or bullying.   If a complaint arises out of conflict between students or groups of students, peer mediation may be considered.  Special care, however, is warranted in referring some cases to peer mediation.  A power imbalance may make the process intimidating for the victim and therefore inappropriate.  The victim’s communication and assertiveness skills may be low and could be further eroded by fear resulting from past intimidation and fear of future intimidation.  In such cases, the victim should be given additional support. Alternatively, peer mediation may be deemed inappropriate to address the concern.

Disciplinary Interventions When acts of harassment, intimidation and bullying are verified and a disciplinary response is warranted, students are subject to the full range of disciplinary consequences. Anonymous complaints that are not otherwise verified, however, cannot provide the basis for disciplinary action.  

In and out-of-school suspension may be imposed only after informing the accused perpetrator of the reasons for the proposed suspension and giving him/her an opportunity to explain the situation.

Expulsion may be imposed only after a hearing before the Board of Education, a committee of the Board or an impartial hearing officer designated by the Board of Education in accordance with Board policy.  This consequence is reserved for serious incidents of harassment, intimidation or bullying and/or when past interventions have not been successful in eliminating prohibited behaviors.

Allegations of criminal misconduct are reported to law enforcement, and suspected child abuse is reported to Child Protective Services, per required timelines.

Report to the Parent or Guardian of the PerpetratorIf, after investigation, acts of harassment, intimidation and bullying by a specific student are verified, the building principal/designee notifies the parent or guardian of the

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perpetrator, in writing, of that finding.  If disciplinary consequences are imposed against such student, a description of such discipline is included in such notification.    

Strategies are developed and implemented to protect students from additional harassment, intimidation or bullying, and from retaliation following reporting of incidents.

Reports to the Victim and His/Her Parent or GuardianIf, after investigation, acts of bullying or hazing against a specific student are verified, the building principal/designee notifies the parent/guardian of the victim of the finding.  In providing such notification, care must be taken to respect the statutory privacy rights of the perpetrator.  

Bullying matters, including the identity of both the charging party and the accused, are kept confidential to the extent possible.  Although discipline may be imposed against the accused upon a finding of guilt, retaliation is prohibited.

Police and Child Protective ServicesIn addition to, or instead of, filing a complaint through this policy, a complainant may choose to exercise other options including, but not limited to, filing a complaint with outside agencies or filing a private lawsuit.  Nothing prohibits a complainant from seeking redress under any other provision of the Ohio Revised Code or common law that may apply.  

The District must also investigate incidents of harassment, hazing, intimidation and/or bullying for the purpose of determining whether there has been a violation of District policy or regulations, even if law enforcement and/or the public children’s services are also investigating.

All District personnel must cooperate with investigations by outside agencies.No one is permitted to retaliate against an employee or student because he/she files a grievance or assists or participates in an investigation, proceeding or hearing regarding the charge of hazing and/or bullying of an individual.

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT/INFRACTIONSAttempting to Harm (Policy 7217): A student shall not cause physical injury, incite others to violence, or behave in such a way which could cause injury to themselves, other students, to school staff, to school volunteers, or to visitors while under the jurisdiction of the school. 'Harm' would also include students victimized by bullying behaviors. This policy is in effect (1) On school grounds or off school grounds when a student's behavior affects other student’s rights to a proper educational environment. (2) On school grounds at any other time when the school is being used by a school group, or event.  (3) Off school grounds at a school activity, function or event.

Damage/Destruction of School/Private Property (Policy 5513): No student shall cause or attempt to cause damage to any school or private property. This policy is in effect on school premises or at any school sponsored event off school grounds. Restitution may be required in addition to disciplinary action.

Dangerous Weapons and Dangerous Instruments (Policy 5772):  A student shall not possess, handle, or transport or conceal any object which might be considered a dangerous weapon or instrument of violence. This would include, but not be limited to guns, knives, brass knuckles or fireworks of any kind. State law now provides for an expulsion for one calendar year for a student bringing a firearm (or part of a firearm) or knife onto school property, in a student book bag, backpack or container, in a vehicle, or to any school sponsored activity. This rule also applies to improperly used normal school

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supplies like pencils or compasses. Matches, lighters and other dangerous objects of unreasonable use to a student at school also fall under this rule.

Disruption of School (Policy 5500):  A student shall not by use of violence, force, coercion, threat, harassment, insubordination, or repeated failure to comply with school rules or directives cause disruption to the educational process, including all curricular a extracurricular activities. This may include but is not limited to: bullying, distribution of pamphlets, leaflets, buttons, insignias etc, without permission of proper school authority, Demonstrations by individuals or groups causing disruption to the school system, turning in false fire, tornado, bomb or disaster alarms, placing of signs and/or slogans on school property without permission of the proper school authority, gambling, engaging in sexual acts on school premises, indecent exposure, possession and/or use of fireworks, smoke bombs, explosives or any other similar device on school premises or at a school function. Proper legal authorities will be notified if necessary.  A report or complaint will be filed with the Champaign County Juvenile Court if circumstances warrant.

Fighting/Assault (Policy 5517.17): Fighting on school premises, on a school bus, at any school related activity or when an off-campus incident is directly related to a school incident is strictly prohibited. Generally speaking, BOTH parties involved in a fight will be punished. However, if one student is obviously the aggressor, and the other had done everything reasonably possible to avoid the situation, only one student will be punished. This could happen if the other student is clearly defending him/herself and doing nothing to aggressively continue the fight.  If a student is involved in an assault of another student (one student hitting another without any retaliation), the consequence will be greater. In all instances of these types of behavior, a student will be removed from class or event/premises and sent home with an out-of-school suspension to follow. Additional infractions will result in longer suspensions with severe recurrences potentially causing a recommendation for expulsion. In all fighting and assaults, the administration reserves the right to file a report with the proper authorities.

Frightening, Degrading or Disgraceful Acts (Policy 5500):  A student shall not engage in any act which frightens, degrades, or disgraces or tends to frighten, degrade, or disgrace anyone. This includes written, gesture, physical or verbal means.

Insubordination (Policy 5500): Insubordination refers to disregarding or refusal to obey reasonable directions or commands given by school personnel.  Repeated violations of minor rules, directions, or discipline procedures shall also constitute insubordination. These directions can come from any school personnel including but not limited to: administrators, teachers, substitute teachers, teachers’ aides, bus drivers and all other school personnel who are authorized to give such directions during any specified period of time when they are subject to the authority of such school personnel. Students shall comply with the directions of all school staff during any period of time when the student is under the authority of school personnel. Failure to comply will constitute insubordinate behavior. This includes dishonesty; students are expected to be truthful and straightforward with staff.

Profanity and/or Obscenity Toward a Staff Member (Policy 5500):  A student shall not use profanity or obscene language, written or verbal, when communicating with anyone. This would include obscene gestures, signs, pictures, or publications which would cause apprehension or concern to a person of reasonable sensibility.

Theft (Policy 5500): Theft is defined as stealing, attempting to steal or assisting another student to steal unauthorized possessions of the property of others. Theft is prohibited and could include restitution in addition to the notification of authorities.

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Unauthorized Area/Leave School Without Permission, Trespassing:  Students are not to be in restricted areas including but not limited to custodial areas, teacher areas, the kitchen area, stairways/hallways, and the elementary school without proper permission. Students are not to be outside the building and may not leave school unless authorized to do so.

Public Display of Affection (Policy 5500): Public displays of affection are generally considered in poor taste and have no place in the school. Hugging, kissing and inappropriate touching are not allowed.

Dress Code Violations (Policy 5511): Students who violate the school dress code will be issued a detention. Piercings, for example, will likely result in ISS time until the infraction is corrected.

General Rules, Regulations and Policies (Policy 5500):  A student shall not refuse to obey, or willfully aid another person to violate reasonable and lawful classroom rules and/or school rules, government regulations, Board of Education Policy, or other rules determined by school personnel to maintain an orderly educational environment.

Profanity and/or Obscenity (Includes WCD) (Policy 5500):  A student shall not use profanity or obscene language, written or verbal, when communicating with anyone. This would include obscene gestures, signs, pictures, or publications which would cause apprehension or concern to a person of reasonable sensibility.

Cutting Class: Cutting is defined as an unexcused absence from class, lunch, detention, etc. Students are held accountable to attend each class, assembly, event, etc. listed on their student schedule or as directed by staff.

Truancy/Tardy to Class: Students who are chronically truant or tardy will face disciplinary action and other consequences deemed necessary by the administration.

Forgery (Policy 5500): A student shall not verbally or in writing use the name of another person, or falsify times, dates, grades or other data or correspondence directed to the school or school personnel.

Academic Dishonesty (Policy 5500): Academic dishonesty is defined as any type of cheating including but not limited to plagiarism, providing false information, or using another person’s work for personal gain and without the knowledge of the person or instructor.

Misuse of Technology (Policy 7540): Misuse of technology is defined as any use not related to educational purposes. ** more details are located in the Student Acceptable Use Policy of the handbook

Violations of this policy could result in the following disciplinary action:1st offense: Tuesday School 2:15-4:15pm2nd offense: Friday School 2:15-6:15pm3rd offense: 2 Days of Friday School, no personal WCD permitted on campus4th offense: 3 Day OSS, no personal WCD permitted on campus5th offense: 5 Days OSS, no personal WCD permitted on campus

METHODS OF DISCIPLINE

Possible Disciplinary Consequences At Mechanicsburg each student is considered an individual and as such there are varying

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degrees of an individual's involvement with any violation. With this in mind, the disciplinary actions listed below are considered general. This policy does not define all types and aspects of student behavior. Any conduct which causes an interference with any school function, activity, or purpose, or which interferes with the health, safety or well-being or the rights of other students or with the staff is prohibited and may result in disciplinary action as outlined. Each discipline situation will be addressed according to the nature of the offense and the behavior pattern of a student. Age and maturity of the student committing the offense are mitigating factors in determining appropriate discipline. Therefore, the disciplinary sequence as presented may be modified by an administrator. Repeat violations of this code will result in more stringent punitive consequences at the discretion of the administration.

The following are examples of possible disciplinary consequences and are listed in order from less to more serious.

1. Conference with staff/principal2. verbal/written warning3. loss of privileges and/or community service4. removal from class5. parent notification6. conference with parents 7. referral to helping agency8. during school/after school detention9. Tuesday School (Extended detention 2:15-4:15pm) 10. Independent Student Study11. Friday School (2:15-6:15pm)12. Out-of-School Suspension (one to ten days)13. referral to Juvenile Court14. Expulsion

CounselingGuidelines, Services and Outcomes will be varied according to the situation

Detentions● Will be served at after school on Tuesdays and Thursdays for a minimum of

30 minutes. ● Responsibility for transportation rests with the student. ● Students are expected to be productive during the detention period. Failure to

do so will result in further disciplinary actions. ● Failure to serve a detention assigned could result in a Tuesday School 2:15-

4:15pm or Friday School 2:15-6:15pm. ● Chronic detentions during the year may result in more severe punishment up

to and including Out of School Suspension.

Friday School Detentions● Will be held on the 2nd and 3rd Friday of the month.● Friday School Detentions are held in the cafeteria (unless otherwise specified)

from 2:15-6:15pm. Students will need to pack a dinner.● Students are expected to be on time and productive during the duration of the

time period. Failure to do so will result in further disciplinary actions.** further information will be provided when assigned

Independent Student Study Students may be assigned time for discipline infractions to be served during the school day. Students are expected to be productive and credit may be given for completed assignments.

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Out-of-School SuspensionAn out-of-school prohibits a student from attending school or any school- related function for a period between 1-10 school days. For a student’s first suspension, he/she will be allowed to receive full credit for all work assigned or due during this time. All out-of-school suspensions are marked as unexcused absences.  Any additional suspensions will result in the student receiving zeroes for all work assigned or due during this time.

The guidelines listed below are followed for all out-of-school suspension:

1. The student is informed in writing of the potential suspension and the reasons for the proposed action.

2. The student is provided an opportunity for an informal hearing to challenge the reason for the intended suspension and explain his/her actions.

3. An attempt is made to notify the parent(s) by telephone if a suspension is issued.4. Within 24 hours, a letter is sent to the parent(s) stating the specific reasons for the

suspension and including notice of the right to appeal such action.5. Notice of this suspension is sent to the Superintendent, EMIS co-coordinator and

student’s school record (not for inclusion in the permanent record).6. Permanent Exclusion – If the offense is one for which the District may seek

permanent exclusion, the notice contains that information.

Appeal ProcedureShould a student or a student's parent(s) choose to appeal the suspension, he/she must submit in writing their request to the Superintendent within five (5) calendar days of the notice of suspension. The student may be excluded from school during the appeal process.

Standard Procedure with Out of School Suspensions1st = One to Three days and school work may be made up. 2nd = Three to Five days and school work is unexcused. 3rd = Five to Ten days and will include Unruly Charges filed in Juvenile Court. 4th = Ten days and a recommendation for Expulsion forwarded to the Superintendent.

Emergency RemovalIf a student's presence poses a continuing danger to persons or property or an ongoing threat of disrupting the academic process, the Superintendent, Principal, Athletic Director or personnel employed to direct, supervise or coach a student activity program may remove the student from the premises.

ExpulsionAt times, the behavior of a student can be considered so serious as to justify total removal from the educational program for a prolonged period of time. Expulsion is the removal of a student for more than 10 days, but not more than one year. An expulsion can extend beyond the end of the school year if there are fewer school days than expulsion days remaining. The Superintendent may apply any remaining part or all of the period of the expulsion to the following school year.

Appeal ProcedureThe Superintendent shall give the student and parent(s) written notice of the intended expulsion, including reasons for the intended expulsion. The student and parent(s) or

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representative has the opportunity to appear on request before the Superintendent/designee to challenge the action or to otherwise explain the student's actions. This notice shall state the time and place to appear.

The Superintendent will initiate expulsion proceedings against a student who has committed an act that warrants expulsion even if the student withdraws from school before the Superintendent has held the hearings or made the decision to expel the student. (For more information, see Policy 5611)

Search and Seizure School authorities are charged with the responsibility for the safety and well-being of the students in their care.  In the discharge of that responsibility, school authorities may search the person or property, including vehicles, of a student, with or without the student’s consent, whenever they reasonably suspect that the search is required to discover evidence of a violation of law or of school rules. The Board also authorizes the use of canines, trained in detecting the presence of drugs, when the Superintendent has reasonable suspicion that illegal drugs may be present in a school. (For more information, see Policy 5771)

Student Grievance Students are recognized as citizens and as such have the right to request an appeal or file a grievance with a teacher or the principal if the student feels that they have been treated unfairly. In order to resolve these situations, students are encouraged to speak to the appropriate staff member first. A student may make a formal grievance by turning in a written statement regarding the situation to the principal within five days of the incident.

TransportationAll students are expected to abide by the rules of conduct established for the use of bus transportation. The following rules and regulations are in effect at all times when students ride the school bus. This applies to the regular bus routes as well as extracurricular activities such as field trips and athletic trips. A violation of one of these rules could lead to the denial of the privilege of riding the school bus.

1. Pupils shall arrive at the bus stop before the scheduled bus arrival.2. Pupils must wait in locations away from traffic and the bus stop.3. The student code of conduct is in effect at the bus stop.4. Pupils must go directly to an available or assigned seat.5. Pupils must remain seated keeping aisles and exits clear.6. Pupils must observe bus rules and obey the driver at all times.7. Pupils must not use profane language.8. Pupils will not eat or drink on the bus without medical reasons.9. Pupils must not use tobacco on the bus or any other school time. 10. Pupils must not have alcohol or drugs in their possession on the bus except for

prescription medication required for a student. 11. Pupils must not throw or pass objects on, from or into the bus.12. Pupils may carry only objects that can be held in their lap.13. Pupils must leave and board the bus at locations to which they have been

assigned.14. Pupils must not put head or arms out of the bus windows.15. Pupils must leave and board the bus through the front door except in an

emergency.16. Pupils must not bring glass objects on the bus.17. Pupils must not bring live animals on the bus.

STUDENT DRESS AND GROOMING GUIDELINES As society’s norms for dress and grooming change, it is helpful for students and parents

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to have some guidelines concerning school policy on controversial questions relating to student dress and grooming. It is impossible to list all the styles, which might be considered appropriate for school. Likewise, it is impossible to anticipate all the questions involving dress and grooming. Therefore, students are expected to keep themselves clean, well groomed, and dressed in “good taste.”

The following statements are intended to provide minimal guidelines for a standard of student dress and grooming. The major responsibility for meeting these standards is established at home. Student dress and grooming must meet conventional standards of dress and modesty during all school functions. Students who violate the student dress and grooming guidelines will be instructed to remedy the situation and may be subject to further disciplinary action.

STUDENT DRESS AND GROOMING GUIDELINES

1. Students should make every attempt to be clean and well groomed at all times. Attempts by students to call undue attention to themselves by unusual, bizarre, or revealing dress will not be permitted (Specific examples would include pants with holes or distressed areas above the knees, pajamas, or make-up coloring/styling)

2. Clothing with profane, suggestive, or questionable pictures and/or lettering is prohibited.

3. Clothing should be worn as designed and should not display inappropriate parts of the body or undergarments. (no bra straps, cut-offs, or sagging pants)

4. While on field trips, the teachers/chaperones in charge will determine the mode of dress appropriate.

5. Shorts, skirts, or dresses are not permitted unless they are no shorter than mid-thigh.

6. Tank tops are not to be worn; shoulders are to be covered. Please refer to the diagram.

7. Shoes must be worn at all times.8. Hats, caps, head-scarves, or bandanas are not permitted to be worn in the

school building except on special days approved by the administration. (Unless for a recognized Religious belief.)

9. Items, such as dog chokers, dangling chains, jewelry with sharp points (i.e. studded collars, bracelets, and ear tapers) are prohibited.  

10. Exposed body piercing other than earrings will not be permitted, this would include tongue piercing and/or any other piercing visible to staff. Clear spacers are permitted.

11. Wearing coats is not permitted unless approved by the administration due to temperature problems in the building. A coat is anything considered outerwear. If questions arise, the administration will make the final determination about what is or is not a coat.

12. Book bags, tote bags, and duffel bags are only to be carried to and from school. Exception: school provided electronic device carrying case. (Medical exceptions may apply – per administration approval.)

13. Shorts and pants with pictures or writing across the seat are unacceptable.14. Spandex, yoga pants and leggings are not to be worn unless under dress code

appropriate length skirt, shorts, or pants. Test: If leggings (etc.) removed would the attire still meet dress code?

The building principal shall serve as the arbiter of student dress and grooming in his/her building.

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OTHER SCHOOL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

Enrollment/Required Documents: The Superintendent shall require that each child who registers for entrance to school provide:

● his/her birth certificate or similar documentation authorized by law as proof of age and birthdate;

● a certified copy of any custody order or decree together with any modification in such an order or decree.

If such documents are not provided, the child may be admitted under the Superintendent’s guidelines.  Appropriate law enforcement authorities shall be notified in the event that required documents are not provided in accordance with the provision of R.C. 3313.672.(See Policy 5112)

Administration of Medication All medications for students should be administered at home. Under exceptional circumstances, medication may be administered by school personnel when the appropriate administrative procedures are followed. This policy applies to both prescription and non-prescription (over-the-counter) medication.  

If a student has a need to receive a medication at school, it is the student's responsibility to: Present the medication (in the original container) to the school nurse upon arrival to school. A medication release form, (signed by the doctor and the parent or guardian) must accompany the medication. Report to the school nurse at the assigned time to receive the medication.

Please note: At no time is a student permitted to carry medications on his/her person while on school property. All medications are dispensed by the school nurse or designated staff member. The only exception to this policy is a written doctor's order specifying the student is to carry the medication with him/her (ex. an asthma inhaler). FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THIS POLICY MAY RESULT IN DISCIPLINARY ACTION. Cough drops, cough syrup, Tums, aspirin, Tylenol, ibuprofen, Kaopectate, Pepto-Bismol, Midol, etc. are all medications and are prohibited on school property without an accompanied form completed by a physician or parent/guardian. (For more information, see Policy 5330)

Immunizations and Medical RecordsThe state of Ohio mandates that all students entering the 7th grade must have a second MMR. No student may enter the 7th grade at Mechanicsburg Exempted Village Schools without documented evidence of receiving the MMR.  Beginning September 15, students will not be permitted to attend or sent home if MEVS does not have proper documentation. Parents/guardians must keep all student medical records up-to-date and on file in the school office. (For more information, see Policy 5320)

Wireless Communication Devices (Examples: cell phone, tablet, Chromebook, Smart Watch, etc.) (Policy 5136)The use of WCDs (wireless communication device) in locker rooms and/or bathrooms and at lunch is prohibited. NO CELL PHONES OR WD AT LUNCH. *WCDs may be used in class for educational purposes only as approved by classroom teacher and/or principal. WCDs should remain in lockers.

Smart Watches, (example: Apple Watch, Android Wear or Fitbit) or any similar device that can send or receive information and communication wirelessly are considered WCDs and ARE NOT TO BE WORN OR USED during the school day.  Smart Watches are an exception to the above WCD policy regarding use for educational purposes as approved

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by the classroom teacher.

Also, when directed by the administrator or sponsor, WCDs shall be powered completely off (not just placed into vibrate or silent mode) and stored out of sight.

Students are prohibited from using WCDs, cameras, and other electronic equipment/devices to capture, record or transmit the words (i.e. audio) and/or images (i.e., pictures/video) of any student, staff member or other person in the school or while attending a school-related activity, without prior notice and explicit consent for the capture, recording or transmission of such words or images. Using a WCD to take or transmit audio and/or pictures/video of an individual without his/her consent is considered an invasion of privacy and is not permitted, unless authorized by the building principal. Students who violate this provision and/or use a WCD to violate the privacy rights of another person may have their WCD confiscated and held until the end of the school year.

No expectation of confidentiality will exist in the use of WCDs on school premises/property.

Students are prohibited from using a WCD or an electronic equipment/device in any way that might reasonably create in the mind of another person an impression of being threatened, humiliated, harassed, embarrassed or intimidated. See Policy 5517.01 – Bullying and Other Forms of Aggressive Behavior. In particular, students are prohibited from using their WCDs to: (1) transmit material that is threatening, obscene, disruptive, or sexually explicit or that can be construed as harassment or disparagement of others based upon their race, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, or political beliefs; and (2) send, share, view or possess pictures, text messages, e-mails or other materials of a sexual nature (i.e., sexting) in electronic or any other form. Violation of these prohibitions shall result in disciplinary action. Furthermore, such actions will be reported to local law enforcement and child services as required by law.Students are also prohibited from using a WCD to capture and/or transmit test information or any other information in a manner constituting fraud, theft, cheating, or academic dishonesty. Likewise, students are prohibited from using their WCDs to receive such information.

Possession of a WCD by a student is a privilege that may be forfeited by any student who fails to abide by the terms of this policy, or otherwise engages in misuse of this privilege.

Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action and/or confiscation of the WCD. The building principal may also refer the matter to law enforcement if the violation involves an illegal activity (e.g. child pornography). Discipline will be imposed on an escalating scale ranging from a warning to an expulsion based on the number of previous violations and/or the nature of or circumstances surrounding a particular violation. If the WCD is confiscated, it will be released/returned to the student's parent/guardian after the student complies with any other disciplinary consequences that are imposed. In particular egregious offenses involving the invasion of another person's privacy, the Board reserves the right to confiscate the WCD and hold it until the end of the school year. A confiscated device will be marked in a removable manner with the student's name and held in a secure location in the building's central office until it is retrieved by the parent/guardian. WCDs in District custody will not be searched or otherwise tampered with unless school officials reasonably suspect that the search is required to discover evidence of a violation of the law or other school rules. Any search will be conducted in accordance with Policy 5771 – Search and Seizure. If multiple offenses occur, a student may lose his/her privilege to bring a WCD to school for a designated length of time or on a permanent basis.

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Students are personally and solely responsible for the care and security of their WCDs. The Board assumes no responsibility for theft, loss, damage, or vandalism to WCDs brought onto its property, or the unauthorized use of such devices.

Parents/Guardians are advised that the best way to get in touch with their child during the school day is by calling the school office. (More info?, see Policy 5136 and 5136.01)

Violations of this policy could result in the following disciplinary action:1st offense: Tuesday School 2:15-4:15pm2nd offense: Friday School 2:15-6:15pm3rd offense: 2 Days of Friday School, no personal WCD permitted on campus4th offense: 3 Day OSS, no personal WCD permitted on campus5th offense: 5 Days OSS, no personal WCD permitted on campus

ChromebooksStudents will purchase/lease/and/or use Chromebooks in their middle school classrooms. There will be a semester fee assessed and students will be expected to transport the Chromebooks from classroom to classroom using school-issued bags. These will be used to enhance classroom instruction and provide opportunities for teaching and learning in a connected world.

Student Fees and Fund-raisersStudents are responsible for any school fees, and/or fund-raiser items/monies received. Fees are paid to the office. Monies for fund-raisers are paid to fund-raiser sponsors. Non payment of fund-raising money or Student Fees not paid at the rate of 25% by the end of the 1st grading period, 50% by the end of the semester, and 100% by the end of the 3rd grading period will not be permitted to:

● Attend school sponsored dances● Attend field trips● Participate in fundraisers.

Dances● School dances may be held during the school year. Dances are open to

currently enrolled Mechanicsburg Middle School students only. These events are chaperoned by school administrators and teachers.

● Students who have multiple unexcused absences in the week preceding a dance may be denied participation.

● Student fees must be paid in accordance with 25% prior to receiving schedule, 50% by the 2nd Quarter, and 100% by the third quarter in order to participate.

Field TripsAt times during the school year, field trips may be scheduled in order for students to have the opportunity to participate in activities which are not available in the classroom. An admission expense may be charged. Attending field trips is a privilege and must be earned. Students must have a permission slip signed by a parent/guardian and teachers should provide a list to staff of students attending field trip.

● Students who have multiple unexcused absences in the week preceding a field trip may be denied participation.

● Student fees must be paid in accordance with 25% by 1st Quarter, 50% by the 2nd Quarter, and 100% by the third quarter in order to participate.

Washington D.C.

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Students in the 8th grade have the opportunity to participate in a school sponsored trip to our Nation’s Capital. The trip, 3 nights and 4 days, falls in the early-to-mid part of May. The approximate cost of the trip is $750. Students must have fees paid in full and be in good standing with attendance and discipline to attend. Any student who is issued two (2) Out-of-School Suspensions will not be permitted on the trip. Monies paid will NOT be refunded. Please watch for fundraiser opportunities and scheduled parent meetings.

KirkmontStudents in the 6th grade have the opportunity to attend Kirkmont, an outdoor educational center. The trip is typically in the third week of May. Cost is to be determined based on success of fundraisers scheduled throughout the year. Student fees must be paid in full to be eligible to attend. Please watch for fundraiser opportunities and scheduled parent meetings. Any student who is issued two (2) Out-of-School Suspensions will not be permitted on the trip. Monies paid will NOT be refunded.

Leaving School at the End of the Day All students must leave the school premises unless they are involved in an activity that is under the direct supervision of a staff member. Athletes who do not have practice immediately after school are to leave the school premises and not return until their scheduled practice time.  The public library is available for student use until a practice time necessitates returning to school.  The School/Coaches are not liable to students/families who do not abide by this policy.

LockersEach student is responsible for his/her personal belongings as well as school books, materials, etc. which are given to the student to use. School officials do not take responsibility for items that are stolen from lockers. Students may visit their lockers between classes; however, each student is responsible for arriving to class on time. Students may not switch lockers without permission or interfere with the lock system. They must be used as intended. (Ex. Jam the lock to prevent locking and quicker access.)

All school lockers are the property of Mechanicsburg Exempted Village Board of Education and are maintained to ensure privacy of each student's belongings. Lockers shall not be used for illegal or dangerous purposes and can be inspected by the administration to ensure safety and student's welfare.

Lost and FoundArticles that are found should be turned into the main office.

School Delays and ClosingsIn the event school must be closed due to inclement weather or the starting time of school is delayed; students and parents should listen to area radio and TV stations.  Additionally, parents may sign up for “One Call” system, which will call their designated phone(s) with pertinent information (additional information to sign up can be found on www.mechanicsburg.k12.oh.us)

Student Transportation Students may not ride skateboards, inline skates, etc. on school property. If parents drop students off or pick up students after school, they must enter the premises from Parkview and drop-off by the paper recycle bin, by the Sweet Garden Entrance, or by the DWE entrance.

VisitorsVisits to the school by parents, other adult residents of the community, and interested

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educators are welcome and encouraged. Persons who wish to visit the school must sign-in at the respective school office. A visitor must have official business with a staff member or administration to be allowed on campus.  No student visitors during the school day will be permitted unless approved 1 day prior by the administration. Any other circumstances for a visit must be approved by the principal. A visitor to the school whose presence or conduct is disruptive, or whose behavior past or present suggests that he/she intends or is likely to become disruptive may be requested to leave the premises. If the visitor so addressed does not withdraw, school officials may summon assistance from the local law enforcement agency.

MECHANICSBURG E.V.S.D.  DRUG, ALCOHOL, and TOBACCO POLICY ~ All Students

I. PHILOSOPHY STATEMENT

The Mechanicsburg Exempted Village School District recognizes its responsibility to provide all students with an environment conducive to the development of their maximum learning potential. The presence of alcohol and other drugs in the school or students with alcohol and other drug problems is a deterrent to learning, thereby limiting, interfering with or inhibiting the primary responsibility vested in the educational system.

Mechanicsburg Schools is concerned about disruption of the learning environment of all students exposed to alcohol and other drug related behaviors. The District is concerned about the health of its students. Students adversely affected by alcohol and other drugs in the schools increases the likelihood that the safety and well being of our students will be disrupted through accidents, fights, absenteeism, academic performance, chronic discipline problems, etc.

Mechanicsburg Exempted Village School Board of Education recognizes student alcohol and other drug use as wrong and harmful. Student alcohol and other drug use is a community problem requiring a community solution. Since the Mechanicsburg Schools is an integral part of the community, it is in the best interest of the community that steps be taken to promote, enhance, and maintain a drug-free school environment. The District also recognizes that alcohol and other drug use may lead to addiction, a treatable medical disease. In response, it is the policy to provide discipline as well as positive action to address alcohol and other drug use and/or dependency.

In developing this policy, the Board has tried to maintain a balance between compassion and aid to the students suffering from alcohol and other drug use, and the protection of the academic environment of students who wish to learn. It is recognized that the rights of students who do not use alcohol and other drugs may be protected. They should not have to be exposed to the possibility of being involved in illegal activities. The Board recognizes that the rights of administrators and teachers to perform their duties must be protected.  

Additionally, it is important to recognize that the Mechanicsburg School District is not a treatment program. Diagnosis, treatment, and aftercare are complex processes that require trained specialists. Instead our goals are education/prevention, intervention/referral and support/guidance.

The Mechanicsburg Exempted Village School Board of Education is responsible for establishing a policy and directing its implementation. It carries these duties out through the District administrators, and the guidance counselor. The Board calls upon the administrators, faculty, staff, parents and students to collectively ensure the policy's success.

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II. POLICY STATEMENT

The Mechanicsburg Exempted Village School Board of Education shall not permit any student to possess, transmit, conceal, consume, showing evidence of having consumed, used or offer for sale any alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, un-prescribed drugs, look-alike drugs or any mind altering substance while on school grounds or facilities; at school sponsored events; in other situations under the authority of the District or in controlled vehicles. Included in this prohibition are any substances represented as a controlled substance, nonalcoholic beers, steroids, tobacco and tobacco products, electronic "vapor," or other substitute forms of cigarettes and drug paraphernalia.

III. EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM

Individuals who are experiencing problems with drug, alcohol, and tobacco usage are in need of assistance. Recognition of the type of assistance needed may vary; however, the Mechanicsburg School District is committed to work cooperatively to provide the most appropriate program or services to help these individuals.

Becoming aware of the extent of the problem, recognizing the symptoms of abuse, and knowing the effects of drug and alcohol use are necessary elements of a "Preventive Educational Effort."

Therefore, it shall be the responsibility of the school officials of the Mechanicsburg School District to:

● through surveys and school records, establish the extent of usage. The results of these surveys shall be conveyed to the students, parents, and community.

● communicate information in terms of statistics, publications, meetings, workshops, and other pertinent items of interest regarding substance abuse programs and their availability.

● provide continuing instructive programs for all staff personnel which will enable them to identify the symptoms of drug and alcohol abuse.

● bring outside speakers into the schools and cooperate with other agencies to disseminate information to students.

● provide information to students, staff, and parents about outside agencies, a encourage them to take advantage of these services and programs.

● inform students that use, possession, or selling/distributing counterfeit controlled substances is also a criminal offense.

IV. ABUSES OF DRUGS, ALCOHOL, and TOBACCO

A. Responsibilities of Students

Students in the Mechanicsburg School District shall not knowingly possess, use sell, give or otherwise transmit, or be under the influence of any drug, (counterfeit (look-alike controlled substance), the possession of which is prohibited by law and by the Mechanicsburg Board of Education.  This includes all types of drugs, alcohol, or tobacco of any kind:

● On or in sight of any property owned, leased by, or under the control of the Mechanicsburg Board of Education, including vehicles used for the transportation of students.

● On any public or private property during normal school hours including recess, lunch and class changes.

● At any school sponsored or sanctioned activity or event away from or within the school district.

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This policy and in accordance with state law, defines counterfeit and controlled substance as the following:

● Any drug that bears, or whose container or label bears, a trademark, trade name, or other identifying mark used without authorization of the owner of rights to such a trademark, trade name, or identifying mark.

● Any unmarked or unlabeled substance that is represented to be a controlled substance manufactured, processed, packed or distributed by a person other than the person that manufactured, processed, packed or distributed it.

● any substance that is represented to be a controlled substance but is not a controlled substance or is a different controlled substance;

● any substance other than a controlled substance because of its similarity in shape, size, and color, or its marking, labeling, packaging, distribution, or the price for which it is sold or offered for sale.

● any paraphernalia or instrument which may be used with a controlled substance or drug.

All students are responsible for understanding this Drug, Alcohol, and Tobacco Policy and the counseling services available to them.  The student's responsibility is to use this information to make decisions about drug and alcohol use. The student who voluntarily requests assistance or counseling in situations where no offense, as specified later in this policy, has been detected by school officials will not be deemed to be in violation of school policy based on the information divulged. When an offense, as described later in this policy has been detected by school officials, violation of school policy will not be excused on the basis that the student has requested counseling.  

This policy will be subject to enforcement and/or disciplinary action by the administration during the course of any school year, including summer school sessions.

B. Responsibility of School Officials 

It is the responsibility of the Mechanicsburg Board of Education and the school administrators to provide a copy of the standards of conduct and the statement of disciplinary sanctions required to all parents and students. All parents and students will be notified that compliance with the standards of conduct required is mandatory.  

All matters concerning reports of individual students directly related to drug and alcohol abuse shall be and remain confidential except as between the person(s) directly involved in the student's education and except as otherwise provided herein.

When a school official has reason to believe that a student is in violation of the Drug, Alcohol, and Tobacco Policy, the following action will be taken:● the student, at an informal due processing hearing, will be brought to the school

administration and informed of the alleged offense, the evidence to support the allegations, and the disciplinary penalty which may apply if guilty.

● if a student is in need of medical attention, the medical emergency squad will be notified to render immediate and temporary medical attention.

● the parents(s) or legal guardian will be notified and asked to meet with the building administrator.

● only in the case of a medical emergency and the parent(s) can't be reached will the person(s) on the medical emergency card be notified.

● school officials will cooperate fully with the law enforcement agencies and will report to them any information that would be considered beneficial in the law enforcement's efforts to stem the use of drugs, alcohol, and tobacco. This will include notifying the police if an illegal act has been committed by the student.

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If a school official has reason to believe that intoxicants, illegal drugs or potentially harmful substances or drug paraphernalia are concealed in a school locker or on a student, the following will apply:

Locker Search - School lockers, desks, or other similar property are subject to search by school officials at any time or without notice.

Personal Search - As determined by the United States Supreme Court, when the possession of illegal or dangerous items are suspected to be on a student's person, the school official may ask the student to reveal the items suspected to be on this person. Refusal to consent will require that the school official at his/her discretion call the police to investigate at their discretion.

C. Parent/Guardian(s) Responsibilities 

The effectiveness of this Drug, Alcohol, and Tobacco Policy will be greatly assisted by the cooperative efforts of the school, family, and school board and it is, therefore, the responsibility of the parents to be aware of and completely understand the Mechanicsburg School District Drug, Alcohol, and Tobacco Policy. All students and parents of the district shall receive a copy of the standards of conduct and the statement of disciplinary sanctions required. Compliance with these standards conduct is mandatory.

D. Prescription Drugs 

The Mechanicsburg Board of Education wishes to cooperate fully with students, parents, and the medical profession to assure that any student receives required medication during the school day at the time the student needs it. The administration and the Board of Education have established a policy for the dispensation of prescription drugs. Students must adhere to the policies described within the student handbook.  V. OFFENSES AND DISCIPLINARY ACTION

A. Introduction The actions set forth below will be considered routine disciplinary measures for each category and occurrence of offense and shall be administered by the building principal in accordance with the policy and regulations of the Mechanicsburg Board of Education. It is noted that the penalty to be imposed for the offense described; however, in cases where an extreme violation occurs, the specified action may be waived by the school official in favor of a stronger measure such as longer suspension, expulsion, or other appropriate measure deemed necessary.   

B. Offenses The following are types of offenses that are prohibited by the Mechanicsburg Board of Education:

Selling or distributing any quantity of intoxicant, illegal drug, controlled substances, or counterfeit controlled substances:First Offense

● Parent(s) will be notified immediately and the student will be removed from the school for the remainder of the day.

● The police shall be notified of the incident.● Consultation with Parent(s) and student emphasizing the availability of

counseling services.● The student shall be suspended for a maximum of ten (10) days from school.

If the student and parent do not ask for and receive an assessment in a certified drug/alcohol/ tobacco counseling program, the student will be

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recommendation for expulsion.

Second and subsequent Offenses in a calendar yearParent(s) will be notified immediately and the student will be removed from school for the remainder of the school day.Police shall be notified of the incident.Consultation with parent(s) and student emphasizing the availability of counseling services.The student shall be suspended for ten (10) school days and a recommendation for expulsion filed.

Possession of, use of, or having control of intoxicants (being under the influence) of illegal drugs or other controlled substances when such a possession or control is prohibited by law or by the policy of the Mechanicsburg Board of Education.

First Offense● Parent(s) will be notified immediately and the student will be removed from

school for the remainder of the day.● The police shall be notified of the incident.● Consultation with parent(s) and the student emphasizing the availability of

counseling services.● The emergency medical rescue squad will be called if deemed necessary by

the school officials.● The student shall be suspended for a maximum of ten (10) days from school.

If the student and parent(s) agree to receive an evaluation in a certified drug/alcohol/tobacco counseling program, five (5) of the days will be rescinded. If the student and parent do not ask for and receive an assessment in a certified drug/alcohol/tobacco counseling program, the student will be suspended for (10) days.

Second and subsequent offenses● Parent(s) will be notified immediately and student will be removed from

school for the remainder of the day.● The police shall be notified of the incident. ● Consultation with parent(s) and student emphasizing the availability of

counseling services.● The emergency medical rescue squad will be called if deemed necessary by

the school officials. ● The student shall be suspended for ten (10) school days and a

recommendation for expulsion filed.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia or other instruments

First Offense● Parent(s) will be notified immediately and student will be removed from

school for the remainder of the day.● The police shall be notified of the incident. ● Consultation with parent(s) and student emphasizing the availability of

counseling services.● The student shall be suspended for a maximum of ten (10) days from school.

If the student and parent(s) agree to receive an evaluation in a certified drug/alcohol /tobacco counseling program, five (5) of the days will be rescinded. If the student and parent do not ask for and receive an assessment

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in a certified drug/alcohol /tobacco counseling program, the student will be suspended for (10) days.

Second and subsequent offenses● Parent(s) will be notified immediately and student will be removed from

school for the remainder of the day.● The police shall be notified of the incident.● Consultation with parent(s) and student emphasizing the availability of

counseling services. ● The student shall be suspended for ten (10) school days and a

recommendation for expulsion filed.

STUDENT ACCEPTABLE USE AND INTERNET SAFETY POLICY

Advances in telecommunications and other related technologies have fundamentally altered the ways in which information is accessed, communicated, and transferred in society. Such changes are driving the need for educators to adapt their means and methods of instruction, and the way they approach student learning, to harness and utilize the vast, diverse, and unique resources available on the Internet. The Board of Education is pleased to provide Internet services to its students. The District’s Internet system has a limited educational purpose. The District’s Internet system has not been established as a public access service or a public forum. The Board has the right to place restrictions on its use to assure that use of the District’s Internet system is in accord with its limited educational purpose. Student use of the District’s computers, network and Internet services ("Network") will be governed by this policy and the related administrative guidelines, and the Student Code of Conduct. The due process rights of all users will be respected in the event there is a suspicion of inappropriate use of the Network. Users have no right or expectation to privacy when using the Network (including, but not limited to, privacy in the content of their personal files, e-mails, and records of their online activity while on the Network).The Board encourages students to utilize the Internet in order to promote educational excellence in our schools by providing them with the opportunity to develop the resource sharing, innovation, and communication skills and tools that are essential to both life and work. The instructional use of the Internet will be guided by the Board's policy on instructional materials.The Internet is a global information and communication network that provides an incredible opportunity to bring previously unimaginable education and information resources to our students. The Internet connects computers and users in the District with computers and users worldwide. Through the Internet, students and staff can access up-to-date, highly relevant information that will enhance their learning and the education process. Further, the Internet provides students and staff with the opportunity to communicate with other people from throughout the world. Access to such an incredible quantity of information and resources brings with it, however, certain unique challenges and responsibilities.First, and foremost, the Board may not be able to technologically limit access, through the Board's Internet connection, to only those services and resources that have been authorized for the purpose of instruction, study and research related to the curriculum. Unlike in the past when educators and community members had the opportunity to review and screen materials to assess their appropriateness for supporting and enriching the curriculum according to adopted guidelines and reasonable selection criteria (taking into account the varied instructional needs, learning styles, abilities, and developmental levels of the students who would be exposed to them), access to the Internet, because it serves as a gateway to any publicly available file server in the world, will open classrooms and students to electronic information resources that have not been screened by educators for use by students of various ages.Pursuant to Federal law, the Board has implemented technology protection measures,

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which protect against (e.g. filter or block) access to visual displays/depictions/materials that are obscene, constitute child pornography, and/or are harmful to minors, as defined by the Children’s Internet Protection Act. At the discretion of the Board or the Superintendent, the technology protection measures may be configured to protect against access to other material considered inappropriate for students to access. The Board also utilizes software and/or hardware to monitor online activity of students to restrict access to child pornography and other material that is obscene, objectionable, inappropriate and/or harmful to minors. The technology protection measures may not be disabled at any time that students may be using the Network, if such disabling will cease to protect against access to materials that are prohibited under the Children’s Internet Protection Act. Any student who attempts to disable the technology protection measures will be subject to discipline.The Superintendent or Technology Director may temporarily or permanently unlock access to sites containing appropriate material, if access to such sites has been inappropriately blocked by the technology protection measures. The determination of whether material is appropriate or inappropriate shall be based on the content of the material and the intended use of the material, not on the protection actions of the technology protection measures.Parents are advised that a determined user may be able to gain access to services and/or resources on the Internet that the Board has not authorized for educational purposes. In fact, it is impossible to guarantee students will not gain access through the Internet to information and communications that they and/or their parents may find inappropriate, offensive, objectionable or controversial. Parents assume risks by consenting to allow their child to participate in the use of the Internet. Parents of minors are responsible for setting and conveying the standards that their children should follow when using the Internet. The Board supports and respects each family's right to decide whether to apply for independent student access to the Internet.The Superintendent shall prepare guidelines that address students' safety and security while using e-mail, chat rooms, instant messaging and other forms of direct electronic communications, and prohibit disclosure of personal identification information of minors and unauthorized access (e.g., "hacking") and other unlawful activities by minors online.Building principals are responsible for providing training so that Internet users under their supervision are knowledgeable about this policy and its accompanying guidelines. The Board expects that staff members will provide guidance and instruction to students in the appropriate use of the Internet. Such training shall include, but not be limited to, education concerning appropriate online behavior, including interacting with other individuals on social networking websites and in chat rooms and cyberbullying awareness and response. All Internet users (and their parents if they are minors) are required to sign a written agreement to abide by the terms and conditions of this policy and its accompanying guidelines.Students and staff members are responsible for good behavior on the Board's computers/network and the Internet just as they are in classrooms, school hallways, and other school premises and school sponsored events. Communications on the Internet are often public in nature. General school rules for behavior and communication apply. The Board does not sanction any use of the Internet that is not authorized by or conducted strictly in compliance with this policy and its accompanying guidelines. Users who disregard this policy and its accompanying guidelines may have their use privileges suspended or revoked, and disciplinary action taken against them. Users granted access to the Internet through the Board's computers assume personal responsibility and liability, both civil and criminal, for uses of the Internet not authorized by this Board policy and its accompanying guidelines.The Board designates the Superintendent and Technology Director as the administrators responsible for initiating, implementing, and enforcing this policy and its accompanying guidelines as they apply to students’ use of the Network. P.L. 106-554, Children's Internet Protection Act of 200047 U.S.C. 254(h), (1), Communications Act of 1934, as amended (2003)

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20 U.S.C. 6801 et seq., Part F, Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, as amended (2003)

POSTINGS/NOTICES

Pesticides are applied on school grounds as part of regularly scheduled lawn maintenance.

Video Surveillance & Electronic Monitoring: (BOE Policy 7740): Mechanicsburg High School is equipped with surveillance cameras in the school building, on the school premises and on school busses. These may be used to determine violations or illegal actions.

The school is required to post a Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports and Limited Use of Restraint and Seclusion Policy. Please refer to Board Policy 5630.01 on the school website.

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