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Susquehanna Township School District
World Class. Every Day. In Every Way.
Susquehanna Township High School3500 Elemerton Avenue
Harrisburg, PA 17109(717) 657-5117
Susquehanna Township School District Office 2579 Interstate DriveHarrisburg, PA 17110
Core Values: Every learner has the right to a world class education.
We will be a leader in innovation and technology. The learning environment must be safe and supportive.
Our diversity is our strength. Community partnerships are vital to our success.
We will act ethically at all levels of the organization.
Hours of Operation“Success of Every Learner.”
Monday- Friday
7:30am to 4:00pm
Contact Directory
Title: Name: Email: Phone Number:
Superintendent of Schools
Dr. Tod F. Kline
[email protected] (717)657-5100
Assistant Superintendent for
Curriculum and Instruction
Dr. Tamara C. Willis
[email protected] (717)657-5100
Director of Pupil Services
Mrs. Paulie K. Zozos
[email protected] (717)657-5100
Business Manager Mr. Oslwen C. Anderson Jr.
[email protected] (717)657-5100
Director of Human Resources
Ms. Kathy McCool
[email protected] (717)657-5100
Athletic Director/Truancy
Officer
Mr. Andrae Martin
[email protected] (717)657-5117
Principal of Susquehanna
Township High School
Mr. Keith Still [email protected] (717)657-5117
Assistant Principal of Susquehanna Township High
School
Mr. Scott Lindsey
[email protected] (717)657-5117
Assistant Principal of Susquehanna Township High
School
Mr. Michael Selvenis
[email protected] (717)657-5117
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Susquehanna Township School District is an equal rights and opportunity public education school district and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color,
national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, religion, marital status, or genetic information in its activities, educational and vocational programs (providing equal access to Boy
Scouts and other designated youth groups) or employment practices as required by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as amended, Title IX of the 1972 Educational Amendments, Section 504 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 as amended, the Pennsylvania
Human Relations Act of 1955 as amended, and the Genetic Information Act of 2008.
For information regarding civil rights or grievance
procedures, contact Kathy J. McCool, Equal Rights and Opportunity Coordinator, at Susquehanna
Township School District, 2579 Interstate Drive, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 17110, Phone: 717-657-
5100, ext. 50136.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS STUDENT ATTENDANCE 6Lawful Absences 6Cumulative Lawful Absences 6 Unlawful (Unexcused) Absences 6 Tardy to School 7Withdrawal from School 7 Religious Holidays 8Educational Trips and Tours 8 College Interviews, Testing, and Orientation 9Field Trips 9STSD Volunteer Program 9 Participation in Extra-Curricular Activities 10 Working Papers 10 Conferences/Report Cards 10 Early Dismissal 11Weather Delays & Closings 11 GENERAL INFORMATION 12Student Educational Records 12 Six-Day Cycle 12 Food Services 12Celebrations 13Locks and Lockers 13 Searches 14 Bus Transportation 14 Obligations 15 Evacuation Drills 15 Emergency Alerts 16 Security 16 SCHOOL SERVICES 16 Academic Assistance Program (A.A.P.) 16 Student Assistance Team (S.A.T.) 17 Counseling Services 17 Health Services 17 Medication 18Immunization and Communicable Diseases 20 Keiser-Fearen Library Media Center 20Special Education 21
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STUDENT CONDUCT and DISCIPLINE 22 Offenses 25 Electronic Communication/Storage Devices 27
Academic Integrity 28Homework 29Parking Lot Rules and Regulations 32Hall Pass Procedures 33Dress Code 33Alma Mater 38
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STUDENT ATTENDANCE
Attendance at school is essential for a student’s academic success and it is the law under Public School Code Title 24, Section 13-1327, Subsection A. As a result, the following is an outline of Susquehanna Township High School’s Attendance Guidelines and Protocols which are in conjunction with and reinforced by School Board Policy 204.
Lawful AbsencesThe following situations are lawful, or excused absences if written notice is provided by the parent no more than three (3) school days after the student’s return: Illness or recovery from an accident Quarantine of the home Death in the family Court appearance Unavoidable family emergency Religious holidays and religious instruction
Cumulative Lawful AbsencesA maximum of fifteen (15) days of cumulative lawful absences verified by parental notification will be permitted during the school year. All absences beyond fifteen cumulative days will require an excuse from a physician and must be presented the day the student returns to school otherwise it will be an unlawful absence.
Unlawful (Unexcused) AbsencesUnlawful absences are those that are not excused. 1st and 3rd Unlawful Absence
The parent/guardian will receive a letter in the mail notifying them of the absences as well as a phone call and/or email.
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Unlawful (Unexcused) Absences (con’t) 5th Unlawful Absence
The parent/guardian will receive a letter via certified mail as well as a phone call and/or email notifying them of the absences, explaining that all further absences will require a doctor’s excuse the day their student returns to school, and requesting a meeting to devise an Attendance Improvement Plan
8th thru 10th Unlawful AbsenceA Private Criminal Complaint will be filed with the District Magistrate by the student’s principal.
All absences are reported daily via phone. It is the parent’s responsibility to ensure that the school has accurate and up to date contact information.
Tardy to SchoolTardy to school is arrival through the front doors of the building after 7:40 am.
Note – arrival at school after 11:00 am is a full day absence.
3rd Tardy to School - Parent notified. 8th Tardy to School- After School Detention Thirteenth (13th) Tardy to School - Parent notified. Equal
to one unlawful absence. Attendance Improvement Plan meeting requested.
Fourteenth (14th) Tardy to School - One (1) day of In School Suspension. Parent notified. Attendance Improvement Plan meeting requested.
Twentieth (20th) Tardy to School - One (1) day of In School Suspension. Parent notified. Equal to one unlawful absence. Attendance Improvement Plan meeting requested.
WITHDRAWAL FROM SCHOOL When a student is withdrawn from school for
reasons of moving or to attend another school, the guidance office should be notified at least two (2) days in advance. The students must secure the necessary forms from the guidance secretary. All textbooks, library books and materials must be either returned or paid for.
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Information as to where the student is moving and the name of the school district, if possible, must also be furnished. After all obligations are taken care of, and proper information presented to the school, all grades and records will be released to the next school.
Religious Holidays Upon written parental request, in advance, and with approval of the Principal, a student may be excused from school for religious holidays observed by a bona-fide religious group. A student’s absence for bona-fide religious holidays will
be recorded as an excused absence. There shall be no penalty attached to such an excuse.
The student is responsible for making up tests and assignments within the time frame established in the teacher’s syllabus.
Educational Trips and Tours Educational trips will be considered for approval if the Principal determines that the trip will be educationally significant to the student. In order for the Principal to make such a determination, the parent/guardian shall complete a Pre-Approval form seven (7) school days prior to the trip. The building Principal may not approve the request for any of the following reasons: The Principal deems the educational value of the trip
does not justify the absence from school. A student’s prior attendance record is not adequate to
approve additional days out of school. The Principal deems that the trip would be detrimental to
the student’s progress or success in school. The trip takes place during the final two weeks of the
school term, the Principal may choose to approve emergency requests during this time period.
The trip takes place during testing (i.e. Keystone exams, PSSA testing, Benchmark testing, Senior Project, etc.)
Requests may not exceed a total of five school days in one school year. It is the student’s responsibility to get
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assignments from his/her teachers. The teachers will need at least one week’s notice prior to departure. All work must be turned in within five days of the student’s return to school. Students who have not been granted an excused absence will be considered unexcused.
College Interviews, Testing, and Orientation Upon written parental request and approval of the Principal, a student will be excused from school for a college interview, college testing, or college orientation if the following requirements are met: The student is a junior or senior and his/her counselor
has verified that the absence is for an interview, testing, or orientation.
Upon the student’s return, he/she must present a letter on college stationary indicating that the purpose of the college visit was to be interviewed, tested or to participate in an orientation program.
FIELD TRIP - Policy #121 A field trip shall be defined as any trip by students away from school premises that is an integral part of approved planned instruction, is conducted as a first-hand educational experience not available in the classroom, and is supervised by district professional employees. Additional information on field trips can be found on the district website.
STSD VOLUNTEER PROGRAM The District supports a volunteer program that provides volunteers to the school outside of all other organizations (PTO’s, booster clubs, etc.).Requirements for these volunteers are the same requirements for Direct Regular Contact Volunteers. Additional training is provided for these individuals. Please visit the following link on our District webpage for more information: http://www.hannasd.org/Page/5487Participation in Extra-Curricular Activities
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A student who is absent from school or reports after 11:00 a.m. on a school day may not participate in any form of extra-curricular activity on that day. Any student sent home during the day for medical or disciplinary reasons is not able to participate in any extra-curricular activities on that day. Any student that is suspended in or out of school is not permitted to participate in extra-curricular activities. If the suspension spans the course of a weekend a student will not be able to participate in activities over the weekend.
Working PapersThe District is responsible for issuing work permits to all minors who reside within the Susquehanna Township School District including those who attend non-public schools or participate in a home education program. Work permits are obtained at the District Administration Building, located at 2579 Interstate Drive, HBG, PA 17110, during Business Hours. The Parent and/or Legal Guardian must provide the minor’s birth certificate or/ passport for age verification. An application is then completed and the work permit issued the same day.
PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES AND REPORT CARDS
Report cards are distributed four times a year. Formal Parent-Teacher Conferences are scheduled to discuss student progress (see District Calendar for specific date(s)). If other conferences are required, they will be scheduled by the parent or teacher as needed.
Report cards are mailed to homes at the end of each marking period, and the end of the school year.
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The school district maintains an internet parent portal that allows parents to view student grades and attendance as they appear in the school records. Parents are encouraged to register for a parent portal account to access this information on-line. Please contact the school office or teacher for more information. Early Dismissal In instances where students need to be excused from school during the school day, parents should notify the school prior to 9:00 a.m. The reason for an early dismissal should include one of the following: A doctor, medical or dental appointment A family emergency Driver’s examination Prior approval of the Principal School sponsored events Athletic events – approved by the Athletic Director. Parents are urged to schedule medical and dental appointments that result in minimal interference with the student’s school program. Weather Delays and Closings When weather conditions are such that school might be cancelled or the start of school delayed, a Blackboard Connect voice message will be dispatched from the District Office. This will provide information on weather closings or delays. Information will also be posted on the school district website as well as provided to the following radio and television stations: WINK 104, WCMB, WHP (21 and 580), WGAL, WHTM, WTPA, WITF and WHYL.
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GENERAL INFORMATION
Student Educational Records The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99) is a Federal law that protects the privacy of student education records.
All health information created and maintained by the STSD and contracted representatives is also considered part of the student’s educational record, and therefore protected by FERPA as well as HIPPA. FERPA provides certain rights with respect to a student’s educational records. Please refer to Board Policy #216 for more details.
Six-Day Cycle The high school year is composed of 30 six-day cycles. When a day of school is missed due to a holiday or snow day, school resumes with the next consecutive cycle day.
FOOD SERVICES (BREAKFAST/LUNCH)The cost of a lunch is determined and advertised each school year. A lunch/breakfast menu is available on the district’s website – click the link for Menus. Students are expected to conduct themselves in an orderly manner by staying seated while eating, speaking in quiet voices, returning trays and trash to the appropriate area, and enjoying social time with friends.
Sufficient funds must be kept in student accounts in order to purchase breakfast and/or lunch. A note from
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the cafeteria will be sent home to keep parents/guardians informed of delinquent accounts.
Breakfast is available for students from mid-September until the end of the year. Breakfast will be served between 7:27 am and 7:37 am. The account used for lunch can also be used to purchase breakfast.
Free and Reduced lunch applications and guidelines can be found on the high school website as well as the district website.
Celebrations – Non-School Related Students are not permitted to bring birthday/anniversary, related celebratory items or food into school including but not limited to: balloons, cakes, tiaras and noise makers.
Locks and Lockers All students will be issued a hall locker. Hall lockers, and all lockers assigned by the school for school activities or purposes are the property of the school. Students who are taking a physical education class will be issued a lock for their gym locker. Other than when students are storing or retrieving books, all lockers are to be closed and locked. Students are to use their own lockers and not allow anyone else to use their locker. Students are solely responsible for all items contained in the lockers assigned to them. Students will be subject to disciplinary action if prohibited materials such as alcohol, drugs or weapons are discovered in their locker.
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Searches-Policy #226 Student lockers are owned by the Susquehanna Township School District and The School Board authorized the administration to conduct searches of students, their belongings, including lockers, automobile, electronic devices, purses, backpacks, clothing and other possessions. Students have no expectation of privacy in the lockers which are assigned to them.
School authorities may conduct a physical search of a student’s locker and seize any illegal materials. Such materials may be used as evidence against the student in disciplinary proceedings. Where school authorities have reasonable suspicion that a locker contains materials which pose a threat to the health, welfare, and safety of students in the school, including drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or weapons, student lockers may be physically searched without prior notification and opportunity to be present. Notwithstanding the foregoing, school authorities may utilize a drug detection dog to conduct random and/or blanket canine sniff searches in the hallways or corridors where lockers are located with or without any suspicion of wrongdoing by a student or students.
Bus Transportation Students must obey State Bus Regulations and cooperate with bus drivers at all times. While on the bus, students are responsible directly to the driver. Any disorderly conduct or refusal to submit to the authority of the bus driver shall be sufficient reason
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for the school to refuse transportation to any student or to place such student on suspension. Bus drivers will submit a bus misconduct form to the Building Administration in instances where student behavior is inappropriate. The bus driver has the authority to assign regular or special seats for any and all students. Obligations Students are responsible to return all supplies, textbooks and equipment (including any and all athletic equipment and/or uniforms), issued to them. In addition students are required to pay library fines or charges for equipment they use and damage. Students will be issued an obligation slip when a charge is pending. Obligations may be paid during normal school hours in the main office. Important documents such as diplomas, report cards etc. will not be issued until obligations are paid. This also applies to any discipline obligations. Evacuation Drills At the sound of the fire alarm bell, students shall follow the direction of the teacher and shall leave their rooms promptly and in an orderly fashion. Students shall proceed directly toward the designated exit. Classroom doors and windows must be closed and lights must be turned off. If a drill occurs at a time other than when students are in classrooms, students shall proceed under the emergency directions of the staff member in charge of the group. If a student is outside of the classroom during a drill, the student should go promptly to the nearest exit and report to the nearest classroom teacher.
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Students are to be quiet during drills so that the instructions of those running the drill can be heard. The student first arriving at the doors should assist in facilitating the passage of others by holding the doors in the open position. Once outside, students are to move away from the building and remain quiet and orderly. Emergency Alerts During emergency alerts, students and staff will be directed via intercom or alternate system. During severe weather drills or upon the direction of the administration, students will go into the hallway away from windows and glass doors. Students are to sit on the floor facing the lockers and follow the instructions of staff members. Students are to remain quiet so that additional instructions can be heard and followed. Security During a building lockdown, students who are not in a classroom are required to go to the nearest classroom immediately upon hearing the announcement of a lockdown. Students are informed that in any emergency situation they are to follow their classroom teachers’ directions or the direction of the nearest faculty member.
SCHOOL SERVICES Academic Assistance Program – A.A.P. The Academic Assistance Program (A.A.P.) is available to students who need or desire additional help with assignments. The A.A.P. provides individualized or small-group instruction for students and is delivered by certified teachers. The Academic
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Assistance Program meets after school three (3) days per week for approximately two hours.
During the Academic Assistance Program sessions students are subject to all school rules, regulations and guidelines. Students who wish to participate must report to A.A.P. by the designated time.
Student Assistance Team - (S.A.T.) The Student Assistance Team is available to offer support to students who are experiencing problems with drugs, alcohol, mental health issues, or who have friends who are experiencing these problems. The team exists to provide help to students, and all referrals are strictly confidential. Referrals may be made to any staff member.
Counseling Services The Counseling Office provides services and resources for students as an aid to their educational, vocational, social, and personal development.
Individual conferences are held each year in order to assist students with scheduling and post-secondary school planning. Parents and students are encouraged to meet with the guidance staff during school hours.
Health Services A primary responsibility of the school is the health and safety of each student. A registered nurse is available at school to address health issues.
The school health law requires a dental examination for grade 3 students. It is recommended that the examination is done by a family dentist, since he/she can best evaluate your child's dental health.
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Screening programs such as weighing, measuring, testing for vision and hearing, and checking for scoliosis (curvature of the spine) are procedures used to identify those students who need further attention. Parents will be notified if a student fails a test. Since certain phases of a student's health may change rapidly and interfere with school progress, these screening devices are essential supplements to less frequent, periodic medical and dental examinations.
In case a student is injured or becomes ill in school, the student will be cared for by the school nurse or nursing assistant. If the student's condition is thought to be serious, the school nurse will notify the parents. In cases requiring immediate intervention (i.e. bleeding, stoppage of breathing, or poisoning), the school will notify the parents and obtain emergency transportation to a medical care facility.
STUDENT MEDICATIONSusquehanna Township School District recognizes the problems associated with the misuse of drugs and concerns with product tampering and school liability. Therefore, any medication brought to or consumed at school by students is considered a serious matter. This policy is designed to protect students and to allow provisions for medical care while attending classes. It covers non-prescription as well as prescription drugs.
It is recognized that many children are able to attend regular education schools because of the effectiveness of medication in the treatment of chronic disabilities. Our medication policy is as follows:
1. Students requiring medication during the school day must present to the Certified School Nurse (CSN) a written order from the attending physician, which includes the diagnosis, name of medication,
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dosage, when it is to be administered at school, method or route of administration, the length of time for school use and Doctor’s name and telephone number. Physician’s written note and directions on prescription bottle must match exactly. A yearly update is required. Medication will not be transferred from one bottle to another by medical staff.
2. Medication must be brought to school in the prescription bottle with the label intact. We recommend that you ask the pharmacist for a “school bottle” with a complete label each time a prescription is filled. If the parent cannot come to school, the parent should call the principal or nurse to inform the school that the child is bringing in the medication. All medication must be turned into the nurse’s office immediately upon arrival at school.
3. In the case of non-prescription drugs, the physician’s written statement must accompany an unopened container of the drug of the same name as written on the physician’s statement. Name of medication and doctor’s note for school must match exactly. Please check expiration date. A yearly update is required.
4. Medication will be administered by the school nurse or an RN or LPN assistant or in their absence a trained designee will administer medication.
5. The Nurse’s office is not responsible for distribution of medication to students after the normal school dismissal time.
6. Students may not carry medications for self-administration on school district property unless a physician’s note is presented to the nurse, which states, “may carry or self-administer”. A yearly update is required.
7. Medications will not be sent home from school with students. Parents or guardian must be responsible to pick up medications from school at the end of
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school year when a drug or dose change occurs, and if a drug is discontinued during the school year.
8. If the school district medication policy is not followed, the student will not be given medication at school. This medication policy will continue to be strictly enforced. If there are any questions regarding this policy, please call the school nurse.
Approved by the School Board – January 8, 1990Revised March 24, 2003
IMMUNIZATIONS and COMMUNICABLE DISEASES - Policy #203
In order to safeguard the school community from the spread of certain communicable diseases, the Board requires that established policy and administrative regulations be followed by students, parents/guardians and district staff.
The Board authorizes that students who have been diagnosed by a physician or are suspected of having a disease by the school nurse shall be excluded from school for the period indicated by regulations of the Department of Health for certain specified diseases and infectious conditions.
Keiser-Fearen Library Media Center–K.F.L.M.C. The Keiser-Fearen Library Media Center (K.F.L.M.C.) is open to the public. Please check with the K.F.L.M.C. staff for operating times. Only STHS students and staff are permitted to check out materials. Computers are available in the K.F.L.M.C. for academic information retrieval and word processing. Any other use violates the AUP and K.F.L.M.C. policies and disciplinary measures will be taken. Students are not permitted to play games, access
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chat rooms, play music, access e-mail, or use their own CDs. Students may only access and print material from the Internet for academic purposes. Food and drinks are not permitted in the K.F.L.M.C. All backpacks must be placed in the designated backpack drop upon entering the K.F.L.M.C.
SPECIAL EDUCATION - Policy # 113 The district shall offer each student, with a disability, education programs and services that appropriately meet the student’s needs for educational, instructional, transitional and related services. A student who is eligible to receive special education services shall receive programs and services according to an individualized education program (IEP). The IEP shall provide access to the district’s general curriculum and participation in state and local assessments. The IEP shall include, where appropriate, the use of supplemental aids and services that permit the student to be educated, to the maximum extent appropriate, with their nondisabled peers. The district shall provide a continuum of placement options to appropriately meet the needs of students with disabilities.
Notice of Special Education Services and Program Child Find Each school district, along with other public agencies in the Commonwealth, must establish and implement procedures to identify, locate and evaluate all children who need special education programs and services because of the child’s disability. This notice is to help find these children, to offer assistance to parents, and to describe the parents’ rights with regard to confidentiality of information that will be obtained during the process.
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Please visit the following link on our District webpage for more information: http://www.hannasd.org/Page/64324
STUDENT DISCIPLINE- Policy # 218 1. PurposeThe Board finds that student conduct is closely related to learning. An effective educational program requires a safe and orderly school environment.
2. AuthorityThe Board shall adopt a Code of Student Conduct that will establish fair, reasonable and nondiscriminatory rules and regulations regarding the conduct of all students in the school district during the time they are under the supervision of the school or at any time while on school property, while present at school-sponsored activities, and while traveling to or from school and school-sponsored activities. Each student must adhere to Board policies and the Code of Student Conduct governing student discipline.
The Board prohibits the use of corporal punishment by district staff to discipline students for violations of Board policies and district rules and regulations.
Suspensions and expulsions shall be carried out in accordance with Board policy.
Off-Campus ActivitiesThis policy shall also apply to student conduct that occurs off school property and would otherwise violate the Code of Student Conduct if any of the following circumstances exist:
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1. The conduct occurs during the time the student is traveling to and from school or traveling to and from school-sponsored activities, whether or not via school district furnished transportation.
2. The student is a member of an extracurricular activity and has been notified that particular off-campus conduct could result in exclusion from such activities.
3. Student expression or conduct materially and substantially disrupts the operations of the school, or the administration reasonably anticipates that the expression or conduct is likely to materially and substantially disrupt the operations of the school.
4. The conduct has a direct nexus to attendance at school or a school-sponsored activity, for example, a transaction conducted outside of school pursuant to an agreement made in school that would violate the Code of Student Conduct if conducted in school.
5. The conduct involves the theft or vandalism of school property.
6. There is otherwise a nexus between the proximity or timing of the conduct in relation to the student's attendance at school or school-sponsored activities.
3. Delegation of ResponsibilityThe Superintendent or designee shall ensure that reasonable and necessary rules and regulations are developed to implement Board policy governing student conduct.
The Superintendent or designee shall publish and distribute to all staff, students and parents/guardians the rules and regulations for student behavior contained in the Code of Student Conduct, the sanctions that may be imposed for violations of those
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rules, and a listing of students’ rights and responsibilities. A copy of the Code ofStudent Conduct shall be available in each school library and school office.
The building principal shall have the authority to assign discipline to students, subject to Board policies, district rules and regulations and to the student's due process right to notice, hearing, and appeal.
Teaching staff and other district employees responsible for students shall have the authority to take reasonable actions necessary to control the conduct of students in all situations and in all places where students are subject to the Code of Student Conduct, and when such conduct interferes with the educational program of the schools or threatens the health and safety of others.
Reasonable force may be used by teachers and school authorities under any of the following circumstances: to quell a disturbance, obtain possession of weapons or other dangerous objects, for the purpose of self-defense, and for the protection of persons or property.
When conduct so warrants, the building principal or designee shall, in accordance with the Code of Student Conduct and the memorandum of understanding, contact the police department who has jurisdiction.
The memorandum of understanding shall provide procedures for local law enforcement response including, but not limited to, investigation of the incident, interrogation and custody of the student.
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Possible Teacher Actions (in no particular order): * Verbal reprimand * Student-Teacher conference* Referral to counselor* Parent call* Parent-Teacher conference* Loss of privileges* Referral to administration
Principal/Assistant Principal Actions (in no particular order):* Verbal reprimand * Parent call* Parent-Teacher conference* Parent-Administrator conference* Student-Administrator conference* Counseling within the school* Transfer to another school setting, classroom,
or school bus* Exclusion from school sponsored activities* Loss of privileges* Suspension from school* Referral to law enforcement officials
In each classroom, the teacher and students will establish expectations for the classroom, hallways and stairs, restrooms, and materials. The rules will follow a consistent framework that has been established throughout the district.
ThreatsPolicy 218.2
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The Board recognizes the danger that terroristic threats by students present to the safety and welfare of district students, staff and community. The Board acknowledges the need for an immediate and effective response to a situation involving such a threat. Threats may result in suspension from school.Please refer to the full policy found on the District website.
Bullying/CyberbullyingPolicy 249The Board is committed to providing a safe, positive learning environment for district students. The Board recognizes that bullying creates an atmosphere of fear and intimidation, detracts from the safe environment necessary for student learning, and may lead to more serious violence. Therefore, the Board prohibits bullying by district students. Bullying/Cyberbullying may result in suspension from school. Please refer to the full policy found on the District website.
Possession of a Weapon Policy 218.1The Board recognizes the importance of a safe school environment relative to the educational process. Possession of weapons in the school setting is a threat to the safety of students and staff and is prohibited by law. Please refer to the full policy found on the district website.
HarassmentPolicy 248The Board strives to provide a safe, positive learning climate for students in the schools. Therefore, it shall be the policy of the district to maintain an educational
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environment in which harassment in any form is not tolerated. Harassment may result in suspension from school. Please refer to the full policy found on the District website.
FightingPolicy 218The Board strives to provide a safe, positive learning climate for students in the schools. Therefore, it shall be the policy of the district to maintain an educational environment in which physical altercation is not tolerated. Students who have been actively involved in a physical altercation will be suspended from school. No one participant will be considered absolved because he/she “defended” himself/herself. If a student has been punched/pushed etc., the student is to flee the scene and should seek the assistance of an adult. Students should not revert to the use of physical retaliation.
Students who are continually disrespectful and/or disruptive to the educational environment may be suspended from school. Parent meetings may be required as a means of partnering in the successful education of the child and may be required in order for a child to return to school.
ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION/STORAGE DEVICESAlthough the possession of electronic communication/storage devices by students on school property is not prohibited, possession of electronic devices is subject to the terms and conditions of this policy:1) For the purpose of this policy, electronic device
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is defined as any instrument capable of capturing, storing, displaying and/or transmitting information including text, audio, images, and/or video. 2) During school hours, ALL electronic devices will be turned off and stored securely in student book bags. 3) Students who improperly store or use an electronic device by either receiving or sending information will be subject to consequences. 4) Susquehanna Township High School is not responsible for lost or stolen electronic items that are brought to school.
Academic Integrity-Policy #243Susquehanna Township School District considers academic honesty to be the foundation of its educational program. Academic honesty is a fundamental expectation in course work completed by students. Cheating and plagiarism compromise the educational integrity of the school district’s educational program. All work submitted as part of course requirements must be the original work of the student. The faculty and administration of Susquehanna Township School District believe that enforcing rules against student cheating and academic dishonesty will enhance the validity of the educational program for every student. The District uses the following definitions when dealing with issues of academic honesty: Cheating is the submission of work that is not one’s own. Cheating may include, but is not limited to the following: Copying someone else’s work. Allowing someone to copy your work. Cheating on a test, soliciting or facilitating answers
from/to other students during testing situations, including the use of electronic devices.
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Submitting of individual assignments which, in the opinion of the teacher, have been shared improperly with other students.
Receiving assistance on an assignment that was to be completed independently.
Purchasing the work of others, copying files to and from disks and websites, and file sharing. Plagiarism is defined as the “false assumption of authorship; the wrongful act of taking the product of another person’s mind and presenting it as one’s own.” (Gibaldi, 30-31).
Plagiarism may take the form of: repeating someone else’s sentences as one’s own, adopting a particularly apt phrase as one’s own, paraphrasing someone else’s argument as one’s own, or even presenting someone else’s line of thinking in the development of a thesis as though it were one’s own. In summary, to plagiarize is to give the impression that one has written or thought something that has in fact been borrowed from another. A writer may use other people’s words or thoughts, but must acknowledge those words with a citation. Please refer to School Board Policy #243
HOMEWORK- Policy #130 1. PurposeIn an effort to provide education that will meet the varying needs of students, it shallbe the policy of the district to provide homework that parallels direct instruction and reflects the relevance and rigor of the curriculum. All homework assignments should serve a sound educational purpose and should be clearly understood by the students, enabling them to work independently.The amount of time in which students spend doing homework will vary in relation to interest and ability.
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The purpose of homework should be to:
1. Provide practice and reinforcement of skills presented by the teacher.
2. Reinforce skills needed for independent work.3. Provide teachers with an additional means to
monitor knowledge acquisition and adjust instruction accordingly.
4. Provide students an opportunity to prepare assignments designed to preview material that will be helpful in understanding future instruction.
5. Acquire good study skills and work habits.6. Promote home/school communication.7. Integrate skills with assignments designed to utilize
separately learned skills and concepts and apply them in the completion of a single product such as a book report, science project, or writing assignment.
8. Extend assignments designed to transfer previously learned skills and concepts to other situations such as making real world and cross-curricular connections.
2. Definition As used in this policy, homework shall be defined as assigned school work to be completed outside of the regular school day, without the immediate and direct supervision of the teacher.
3. Delegation of ResponsibilityResponsibilities of the teacher in regards to homework should be to:
1. Design homework so that it can be accomplished by the student independent of direct support from others.
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2. Clearly communicate to the student the purpose, directions and expectations for all homework assignments.
3. Clearly establish and communicate to parents/guardians the general purpose and expectations for homework, encouraging feedback regarding quantity and difficulty of homework. Homework should not be used for new learning.
4. Provide timely and appropriate feedback to students and parents/guardians using strategies that will:a. Acknowledge receipt of the homework.b. Monitor for completion and accuracy.c. Give timely feedback on key assignments.d. Give significant feedback on assignments based on extension or skill integration.
5. Differentiate homework to fit individual needs, recognizing differences in working speed, ability, and other factors that may impact on students. Homework tasks can be differentiated by length, by difficulty, or by specific concepts on which students need help.
Responsibilities of the student in regards to homework should be to:
1. Have a system for recording homework assignments on a daily basis.
2. Have a clear understanding of the homework assignments before leaving school.
3. Have books and materials necessary to complete the assigned homework.
4. Allocate an appropriate amount of time daily for the completion of homework.
5. Turn in homework assignments when requested.
Responsibilities of the parent/guardian in regards to homework should be to provide:
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1. Time for students to complete homework.2. A place for students to complete homework.3. The basic materials needed.4. The expectation for homework to be completed.5. The supervision necessary to ensure successful
completion of homework.6. Information to the teacher about homework
questions or concerns, and feedback regarding the quantity and difficulty of homework
Parking Lot Rules and Regulations Students are expected to utilize the transportation provided by the school district. Students who drive their automobiles to school must register them in the high school office by purchasing a parking permit.
Students will be issued parking regulations at the time of registration and will be expected to follow all procedures. Violations will lead to suspension of parking privileges and subject the student to disciplinary action. Students must only park in the assigned rows of the parking lot immediately west of the high school. No students are permitted to park in front of the building or to the east of the building.
The following rules must be followed: All traffic rules must be observed i.e., right of way rules,
speed limit (15 MPH), stop signs, and all posted regulations.
Students must park in assigned rows with parking permit displayed on back of the rearview mirror so it is plainly visible through the front window of your vehicle.
Students must park between the painted lines on the lot (no angle parking).
Students may not park in the marked bus parking spaces in the parking lot.
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Under normal circumstances during the school day, students shall not be permitted in the school parking lot unless: o Authorized to leave school property to attend classes
at Harrisburg Area Community College. o Authorized to leave school property because of
participation in work study or cadet teaching. o Authorized by a pass signed by one of the principals
to get something from their car in an emergency. No other unauthorized persons shall be in the parking lot
and no students will be permitted to enter or sit in a parked car in the parking lot during school hours.
Any accidents that occurs between 7:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. are to be reported to the office immediately and accidents after 3:30 p.m. are to be reported to the office the next school day. Serious traffic offenses will be immediately reported to the Susquehanna Township Police. Cars illegally parked are subject to being towed.
Hall Pass Procedures Students are required to be in their classrooms as assigned. All students outside their classroom during the school day must have a pass. Students who are scheduled for field trips or other activities must notify the teacher of the classroom they are assigned to and receive a pass prior to attending the alternate activity. Students may go to their lockers between classes but not during class time or during their assigned lunch period.
STUDENT DRESS- Policy # 221 1. PurposeThe Board recognizes that each student's mode of dress and grooming is a manifestation of personal style and individual preference. The Board also recognizes that some forms of dress are not appropriate or create a disruption or distraction to the learning environment.
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2. AuthorityThe Board has the authority to impose limitations on students' dress in school. The Board will not interfere with the right of students and their parents/guardians to make decisions regarding their appearance, except when their choices disrupt the educational program of the schools or constitute a health or safety hazard.
Students may be required to wear certain types of clothing while participating in physical education classes, technical education, extracurricular activities, or other situations where special attire may be required to ensure the health or safety of the student.
3. Guidelines All students shall be groomed and dressed appropriately for school and school activities. A student’s dress and/or appearance shall not disrupt the learning environment or constitute a threat to health or safety. It shall reflect practices of good hygiene and cleanliness.
District administration reserves the right to question any mode of dress that is beyond established school rules or in any manner jeopardizes the health or safety of the student or other students.
Reasonable consideration shall be made for those students who, because of a sincerely held religious belief or medical reason, request a waiver of a particular guideline for dress or appearance. The waiver request shall be in writing from the parent/guardian and approved by the building principal or designee on an annual basis. In considering a waiver request, the principal or designee shall have the right to request additional documentation to support the request.
Reasonable accommodation shall be made by the principal for students involved in special duties, activities, or projects approved by the school. This would include but not be limited to athletics, career and technical education, P.E. classes, special events, and other activities that require nonconforming dress on a school campus prior to/during a school-sponsored event.
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4. Delegation of ResponsibilityThe building principal and his/her staff shall be responsible to monitor student dress and grooming, and to enforce Board policy and school rules governing student dress and grooming.
The Superintendent or designee shall ensure that all school rules implementing this policy impose only the minimum necessary restrictions on the exercise of the student's taste and individuality.
Staff members shall be instructed to demonstrate, by example, positive attitudes toward neatness, cleanliness, propriety, modesty, and good sense in attire and appearance.
Restricted Items1. Hats, caps, visors, bandanas, sweatbands, do rags, headdress of any
type and sunglasses may not be worn inthe building. Tinted prescription glasses which change with exposure to the sun may be worn.
2. Shorts, skirts, and skorts must be of appropriate length, mid-thigh. The administration will use the following rule to gage appropriateness. The garment should exceed the length of the student’s fingertips when the student’s arms are fully extended.
3. Clothing that is skin-tight excessively baggy, transparent or reveal back, midriff, cleavage or buttocks when involved in normal school activities such as walking, sitting, bending, raising hand, etc., will be deemed, unacceptable. No bare midriff means no skin should be showing between the bottom of the shirt and the top of the pants. Sleeveless shirts, spandex shirts, strapless tops, tube tops, or tops with spaghetti straps are considered unacceptable for school. Clothing will not be worn in a manner that exposes undergarments.
4. Ripped or torn clothing should not be worn.5. Pants should be worn at the waist level. A belt or suspenders should
be worn.6. Clothing displaying slogans/pictures which suggest the use of
tobacco, weapons, alcohol, drugs, obscene language, sexual innuendoes, gang related behavior, lewd or illegal behavior or is derogatory to any racial, religious, disabled, age, gender or ethnic group, are not permitted.
7. Clothing with ornamentation that will scratch or mark furniture or present possible danger of injury to the wearer or others (i.e.: chains, spiked wristbands, studded bracelets, or extra length belts) will not be considered acceptable in school.
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8. Shoes must be worn at all times. Bedroom slippers are not acceptable. Due to safety concerns about recess, flip-flops may not be worn at the elementary level. Clogs, flip flops, sandals, and platform shoes are discouraged at all schools due to the potential for injury.
9. Coats and any type of outerwear must be placed in lockers or other designated locations at the start of the school day.
EnforcementStudents who violate the student dress code will be referred to the office. The student will be directed to change into appropriate clothing either by putting on an item provided by the school, getting a replacement item from the student’s locker, or having a replacement garment brought to school by a parent or guardian. A record of the violation will be placed in the student’s discipline folder, and a notice will be sent home to the parent or guardian.
ASBESTOS/PEST CONTROL NOTIFICATION
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STSD continues to manage asbestos containing materials as per AHERA regulation. The management plan is available for review by appointment at the district office.
STSD uses an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach for managing insects, rodents and weeds. Our goal is to protect every student from pesticide exposure by using the IPM approach to pest management. Our IPM approach focuses on making school buildings and grounds unfavorable habitats for these pests by removing food and water sources and eliminating their hiding places. This is accomplished through routine inspection by school staff and Home Paramount. Pest sightings are reported to our IPM coordinator who evaluates the “pest problem” and determines the appropriate pest management techniques to address the problem. Techniques can include increasing sanitation, modifying storage practices, sealing entry points, physically removing the pest, etc.
If there are questions about either of these plans, please contact Barry Seilhamer, STSD supervisor of building and grounds, at 717-657-5100, ext. 50132.
ALMA MATER
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Best of all High SchoolsLoud rings her cryProud of her studentsIs the Susquehanna HighWe’ll stand by you Ever the same,We’ll always love you and honor thy name
CHORUSDear old SusquehannaWe’re all for youDear old SusquehannaWith a heart that’s trueWhere ‘ere our paths may leadWe’ll ever cherish, honor youIn word and deed,So good old, dear old Susquehanna We’re all for you.
When we shall leave you For worlds of fameOft to our minds will comeThoughts of thy dear nameWhen we’ll rememberTimes that are goneOf dear, old, S.T.H.S.And of this song.
(Repeat Chorus)
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