WESTWOOD REGIONALJR./SR. HIGH SCHOOL

701 Ridgewood RoadTownship of Washington, NJ 07676

www.wwrsd.org201-664-0880

201-722-1542 (Fax)

STUDENT/PARENT/GUARDIANHANDBOOK

2016-2017

“Excellence in Education”

This agenda belongs to:Name: _______________ Grade: ______

All District Policies and Regulations can be found at the following link: Policies & Regulations

Dear Student and Parent/Guardian:This handbook has been prepared for the benefit of all parents/

guardians and students. It is designed with one purpose in mind: to improve communication between home and school. Students will do better if we work together in the spirit of cooperation.

Westwood Regional Jr./Sr. High School is committed to the pursuit of “excellence in education.” A group of people bound together in pursuit of educational excellence must set down in writing the policies, rules, and procedures which will bind them together as a community. This handbook represents a balance between individual rights and the school’s responsibilities as an educational institution. Other materials that may be of assistance to make this school year a success may be found on the school’s website at http://www.wwrsd.org/site/default.aspx?DomainID=76It is the hope of the administration and staff that the student body recognizes and understands the importance of the information contained in this handbook. It has been prepared to supply the students of Westwood Regional Jr./Sr. High School with a thorough overview of the school, its policies, and expectations. Please read this document carefully and keep it handy for future reference.

Motto“Excellence in Education”

Mission Statement“To provide excellence in education through rich and diverse

learning opportunities, enabling students to exercise intelligent control of their future.”

Vision StatementThe vision of Westwood Regional Jr./Sr. High School, serving the

diverse communities of the Borough of Westwood and the Township of Washington, is to provide a sound and comprehensive education. This education process will ensure that our students have the knowledge, skills, and experiences which will enable them to make future life choices. It is our long-term goal that each student will use this knowledge, these skills and these experiences to reach his/her potential and thus become an actively contributing, productive member of the global community.

Belief Statements

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The Westwood Regional Jr./Sr. High School staff believes that:1. Children are our community’s most valuable asset and we

value each individual child.2. All students have the right to a safe, positive, learning

environment where diversity and individuality are respected and appreciated.

3. Each student’s individual learning styles and needs shall be addressed.

4. Students shall be empowered to be productive, organized, responsible, and self-directed individuals.

5. Our school shall inspire pride, accomplishment, and growth in all students.

6. Physical and mental well-being contributes to student success.

7. Students shall be encouraged to become life-long learners.8. A sound and comprehensive education produces literate

individuals who are effective problem solvers, critical thinkers, and users of technology.

9. Our school has a responsibility to instill an awareness and appreciation of the global community and environment.

10. Education is the shared responsibility of the students, faculty, staff, Board of Education, family, community, and government.

Westwood Regional Jr./Sr. High School Administration

Frank ConnellyPrincipal

Christopher Mello Michael CorsoAssistant Principal Assistant Principal

Grades 10 & 12 Grades 8, 9, 11Department Supervisors

See: Supervisors

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Table of ContentsACADEMICS....................................................................................5

Credit SystemGrading SystemShared-time ProgramsGraduation Requirements Honor RollsPromotion Requirements – Jr. High School

Unprepared for ClassReport Cards/Progress Reports

ATTENDANCE.................................................................................8CuttingIllness at SchoolLong-term Illness – Home InstructionNotification to ParentsRight of Appeal

CODE OF DISCIPLINE..................................................................11Student Code of DisciplineDress CodeSubstance AbuseHarassment/Intimidation/Bullying

GENERAL INFORMATION............................................................12Communicating with TeachersSecurity System

GENERAL RULES AND REGULATIONS.......................................13Academic DishonestyCell Phones/Radios/Electronic DevicesSchool ActivitiesFire & Security DrillsParking at SchoolPersonal PropertyProhibited ItemsSchool PropertyStudent and Locker SearchesStudy Hall Standards

STORMY WEATHER REGULATIONS...........................................18SUPPORT NUMBERS & INFORMATION.....................................18TELEPHONE DIRECTORY.............................................................20

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IMPORTANT DATES & SCHEDULES...........................................20

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ACADEMICS

Credit SystemThe number of credits received by students for a subject is

determined by the number of times a class meets per week and the length of time a subject is studied.

Courses meeting for a full year will have a five (5) credit value. Courses meeting less than a full year receive a portion of that credit. Classes that are indicated as a semester (S) will receive two and one-half (2.5) credits while those indicated as a quarterly (Q) will receive one and one-fourth (1.25) credits. A student earns a passing grade by earning a 65 or better for the course.

Grading SystemThe purpose of grading is to:

1. Inform the pupil of his/her progress2. Inform the parent/guardian of the student’s progress3. Establish an objective record for promotion4. Provide information for the guidance of teacher and

parent/guardian in development of each pupilThe plan of grading is as follows:

1. Quarterly reporting of marking period and quarterly summative assessments

2. A five (5) letter scale of marking

Letter NumericGrade Equiv. Weight

A+ 100-97 4.3A 96-93 4.0A- 92-90 3.7B+ 89-87 3.3B 86-83 3.0B- 82-80 2.7C+ 79-77 2.3C 76-73 2.0C- 72-70 1.7D 69-65 1.0F 64-0 0

WA Withdrawn AbsentWC Withdrawn CuttingWF Withdrawn FailingWP Withdrawn Passing

Final averages are computed using the numerical values that a student has earned throughout the year. Report card and transcript grades will be converted from numerical grades to alpha grades.

If a student earns a grade that is lower than a fifty (50), and there is improvement in the subsequent quarter, then the case will be reviewed to determine whether or not the circumstances warrant

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accommodations. Parents/ guardians should reach out to the individual teacher(s) to begin the process.

For a full year course in the Jr./Sr. High School, the final average will be computed from the four (4) quarterly grades (21.25 percent each) and the final exam (15 percent). For a semester course, the final average will be computed from the two (2) quarterly grades (42.5 percent) and the final exam (15 percent). Quarter Courses will remain the same and if an end of course exam is given it will count as part of the quarterly grade.

In the event that a student fails a course, the prerequisite course must be completed with a passing grade before the student can move on to the subsequent course (i.e., Spanish II must be completed with a passing grade before the student can go on to take Spanish III). English and Physical Education are the only exceptions to this rule. In the event a student chooses to take a course during the summer to make up credits, all summer course work must be completed by September 1.

Shared-time ProgramsStudents attending the Bergen County Technical High School, Capri

Institute or Lincoln Technical School, on a shared-time basis (1/2 of the school day) must maintain passing grades in all of the courses in which they are enrolled. If a student fails one or more courses for the school year, either at Westwood Regional Jr./Sr. High School, Bergen County Technical High School, Capri Institute or Lincoln Technical School, he/she will be ineligible to continue attending the Technical School and forfeit this privilege. Appeals will be heard on a case-by-case basis.

Graduation Requirements – SeniorsHigh school diplomas will be granted to those students who have

completed studies totaling one hundred thirty-five (135) credits including the required subjects correctly distributed. Required subjects include twenty (20) credits in English, fifteen (15) credits in mathematics, fifteen (15) credits in science, ten (10) credits in United States and five (5) credits in world history, five (5) credits in world language, five (5) credits in health and driver’s ed., and the annual completion of physical education.

In addition, all students must meet the requirements listed below:1. Ten (10) credits in fine, practical, and/or performing arts.2. A minimum of ninety (90) hours in career exploration. (Please

note: career education exploration is infused throughout the student’s required classes and is not a separate course offering.)

Any senior who has not met all of the requirements for graduation may not walk at the graduation ceremony.

Students at Westwood Regional Jr./Sr. High School receive a decile rank beginning with the second semester of Junior Year. The

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deadline for final determination of class rank is the end of the first semester of Senior Year.

Additional State High School Graduation RequirementBeginning in March 2016, a redesigned SAT has been administered and scoring has been updated. The College Board has published a concordance table explaining score equivalencies between the redesigned SAT and the old SAT: https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/educators/higher-ed/scoring-changes/concordance. For the classes of 2016, 2017, and 2018, students will be able to demonstrate proficiency in both ELA and math by meeting ONE of the criteria in each column below:

English Language Arts MathematicsPassing score on a PARCC ELA Grade

9 orPassing score on PARCC Algebra I or

Passing score on a PARCC ELA Grade 10 or

Passing score on PARCC Geometry or

Passing score on a PARCC ELA Grade 11 or

Passing score on PARCC Algebra II or

SAT >= 400 or SAT >= 400 orACT >= 16 or ACT >= 16 or

Accuplacer Write Placer >= 6 or Accuplacer Elementary Algebra >= 76 or

PSAT >= 40 or PSAT >= 40 orACT Aspire >= 422 or ACT Aspire >= 422 orASVAB-AFQT >=31 or ASVAB-AFQT >=31 or

Meet the Criteria of the NJDOE Portfolio Appeal

Meet the Criteria of the NJDOE Portfolio Appeal

Valedictorian/SalutatorianIn each high school graduating class, the student who has earned

the highest grade point average shall be named valedictorian and the student who has earned the next highest grade point average shall be named salutatorian, provided that any student so names shall have been enrolled in this district for at least two (2) years immediately prior to high school graduation.

Grade point average is calculated at the end of the seventh semester. In the event the highest or next highest grade point average has been earned by two or more students, both or all the students who have tied for first or second place shall be name co-valedictorian or co-salutatorian, as the case may be.

Honor RollsWestwood Regional Jr./Sr. High School recognizes an Honor Roll

with Distinction and an Honor Roll. To be eligible for Honor Roll

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with Distinction, a student must achieve grades no lower than “A-.” To be eligible for Honor Roll, students must achieve grades no lower than “B.”

Promotion Requirements – Jr. High School (Grade 8) to the Sr. High School (Grades 9-12)

In order to be promoted to the next grade level, students in grade 8 must pass a minimum of three (3) major subjects (language arts, math, science and social studies). If a student fails any two (2) major subjects, he/she will be retained unless at least one (1) of the subjects is repeated in summer school and a passing grade is achieved.

Unprepared for ClassCertainly a student will have difficulty learning if he/she is not in

class or not prepared for class. Therefore, each student is expected to attend all of his/her classes daily, and to bring the necessary materials as required by each teacher.

If a student is continuously unprepared for class, his/her teacher may choose to assign detention, and/or contact the student’s parents/guardians. Additionally, a parent/guardian and teacher conference may be requested with the student’s school counselor.

Report Cards/Progress ReportsGenesis is accessible by going to the following link Genesis and

then “Take Me to Parent Access” at the bottom of the page. Sign in with your username and password.

To view your child’s most recent Progress Report or Report Card in Parent Access, go to “Grading” and click on “Please click here to view.”

Graded student work is also meant to serve as progress reports on a more regular basis. It is very important that each student bring home all graded work in order to help parents/guardians and each student keep track of his/her progress.

ATTENDANCEThe Board of Education has an obligation to require students of this

district be present at school so that he/she may be educated appropriately. This policy is for the benefit of the students, their parents/guardians, and the community at large. This policy is based on the belief that a student must attend class on a regular basis if he/she is to receive the maximum benefit from the classroom instruction and to profit from the exchange of ideas within the classroom. Absences, for any reason, restrict and inhibit the ability of the student to master and complete the prescribed curriculum requirements and the various subject proficiencies. The Westwood Regional Board of Education and the Westwood Regional Jr./Sr. High

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School staff recognize and accept the responsibility to provide a thorough and efficient education for every student and expect the cooperation of students and parents/guardians in this endeavor.

It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to contact the attendance office on the morning of the absence as to why the student is absent either by note, email or phone at (201) 664-0880 x2051. Please see Attendance for more information about the attendance policy and/or regulation.

Students arriving to school prior to the conclusion of first period shall report to their class and the teacher will mark them accordingly. Students arriving to school after the first period shall report to the Main Office. No student should report to class after the first period unless he/she has checked in at the Main Office and has been issued a late pass.

Every four (4) tardies of less than fifteen (15) minutes will count as an unexcused absence. Every eight (8) tardies will result in a late cut. Three (3) late cuts in a full year class and two (2) for semester and quarter courses will result in a loss of credit for course.

CuttingA student is expected to be in class on time every day he/she is in

school. If a student is reported as present to school, but fails to show for class without an excuse pass or is fifteen (15) minutes late or more without an excuse pass, it will be considered a cut. Students who accumulate three (3) cuts in the same class if the course is a full year course and two (2) cuts for a semester or quarter course will be denied credit for the course.

Illness at SchoolTo enable the school to contact a parent/guardian in an emergency

situation during school hours each student is to have a parent/ guardian complete the “Emergency Form” annually. Students who become ill in school shall obtain a pass from the teacher and report directly to the nurse with assistance from a faculty member or classmate. If a student is unable to report to the nurse, the teacher in charge will call the nurse for assistance. Under no circumstances shall students leave school without permission of the school nurse or administration. Violation of this rule will be considered leaving the school grounds without permission and treated as truancy under the Code of Discipline. All accidents and/or injuries occurring during school hours or school sponsored activities are to be reported immediately to the school nurse or the teacher/coach in charge of the activity.

Long-term Illness – Home InstructionAny student who will be absent from school for an extended period of time (two (2) week minimum) is entitled to home-bound instruction.

The process to receive home-bound instruction invoices:9

1. A letter from a physician stating the nature of the illness or injury and the estimated duration of absence.

2. A letter from the parent/ guardian requesting this instruction.

Both letters should be sent to the school nurse. The process can only begin after these two (2) letters have been submitted. Guidance and/or special services will make arrangements for home instruction after verification is received from the school physician.

Notification to ParentsIn order to keep the parents/ guardians aware of the number of

absences and the serious consequences of excessive absences, the following procedure has been established:

1. Whenever the total number of a student’s absences in any class reaches seven (7) for a full year course, five (5) in physical education, four (4) for a semester course, or two (2) for a quarter course, the attendance office will send a letter to notify the parents/guardians. A copy of the letter will be sent to the school counselor for a follow-up phone call to the parents/guardians.

2. Whenever the total number of a student’s absences in any class reaches thirteen (13) for a full year course, nine (9) in physical education, seven (7) for a semester course, or three (3) for a quarter course, the attendance office will send a letter to notify the parent/guardian. A copy of the letter will be sent to the school counselor and the assistant principal, who will follow up with a phone call to the parents/guardians. A meeting may be requested at this time.

3. Whenever the total number of a student’s absences in any class exceeds the permitted maximum of fourteen (14) absences for a full year course, ten (10) in physical education, eight (8) absences for a semester course, or four (4) absences for a quarter course, the attendance office will notify the principal who will notify the parents/guardians that credit will be denied for the course(s) where the excessive absences have occurred.

Right of AppealA parent/guardian who has additional information which should be

considered may file an appeal with the assistant principal within five (5) days of the notification that the student will not earn credit for the course(s). The appeal must be in written form and should indicate the reasons why the penalty for excessive absences should not be imposed. The principal will convene the attendance review committee, chaired by the assistant principal. Such a committee may include one (1) subject supervisor, the student’s guidance counselor, the school nurse, and up to three (3) members of the teaching staff who teach the student involved. The committee will

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review all the reasons for the absences, information from the student file, and any additional information submitted by the parent/guardian with the appeal. The parent/ guardian have the right to attend the appeal hearing and present witnesses. The committee shall present to the principal a written recommendation with reasons within five (5) days of the receipt of the appeal from the parent/ guardian. The principal will review the recommendation of the committee and will either sustain or reject it within five (5) days. The decision of the principal will be forwarded to the parent/guardian. Any further appeal by the parent/ guardian must follow the procedures outlined in the grievance policy for students and parents/guardians. Cuts will not be considered for part of the appeals process.

CODE OF DISCIPLINEAn objective of education is to promote an environment where

individuals may function cooperatively and beneficially. This demands that each member of the community adhere to specified acceptable and appropriate modes of conduct which have been defined and ordained by society. When a member chooses not to conform to a reasonable and established code of conduct and behavior, disciplinary action is warranted.

In the school community, self-discipline, cooperation, and personal responsibility are the foundation upon which an effective and stimulating education is built and fostered. A positive, effective school environment, where learning and teaching are successfully executed, requires that each participatory individual, whether student, teacher, administrator, or parent/guardian, play an active role in the development and the maintenance of such an environment. This requires a code of behavior that clearly defines a student’s responsibilities and obligations while guaranteeing his/her rights and privileges.

Initially, discipline should be corrective and rehabilitative in nature in order to teach and maintain distinctive and proper behavior. However, and more importantly, the discipline process should initiate and nurture the continuing development of self-control in the individual to ensure that the individual will become a confident and effective contributing member of society.

The Student Code of Discipline listed herein conforms to the philosophy of education and the policies of the Westwood Regional Board of Education, the rulings of the State Commission of Education, and the Public Laws of the State of New Jersey as adopted by the Legislature and interpreted by the courts. It is established to ensure the orderly operation of the Westwood Regional Jr./Sr. High School.

Students in the public schools shall comply with the rules established in pursuance of the law for the government of such, pursue the prescribed course of study and submit to the teachers and others in authority over them (NJ Statutes 18A:37-1).

Any pupil who is guilty of continued and willful disobedience or defiance of any staff member or of obscene language, or who shall

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cut, deface, or otherwise injure any person or school property, shall be liable to punishment and to suspension or expulsion from school (NJ Statutes 18A:37-2).

Student Code of DisciplineIt is impossible to foresee every situation that may arise. Any

infraction not listed will be dealt with in a reasonable and fair manner by the appropriate administrator. Each student and parent/guardian has the right to a fair hearing. Appeals may be made to the principal and then to the Superintendent of Schools.

Nothing in the Code of Discipline should be interpreted as to preclude an administrator from exercising discretion in the administration of the code. Upon investigation of an offense, and in determination of extenuating circumstances, the administrator may modify the punishment in the best interests of the school, the code, or the individual student. For the most current Board of Education approved Pupil Discipline/Code of Conduct Regulation click on the following link Code of Conduct.

Dress CodeAll students are expected to conform to acceptable standards of

dress during the hours of regular school attendance and each individual should have the privilege and right to choose his or her own dress, except for the following:

1. Extremely low cut, tight fitting, or transparent clothes, bare midriffs, and/or suggestive clothing

2. Inappropriately revealing skirts, dresses, and shorts3. Tights/leggings with tops that are not at least hip length4. Cut-off tee shirts, see-through mesh shirts, shirts that are

worn off the shoulder or shirts without straps5. Clothing that is overly soiled, torn, worn, or defaced6. Clothing bearing nudity, vulgarity, obscenity, profanity and

double-entendre pictures or slogans7. Clothing, apparel, and/or accessories that are offensive, drug

or alcohol related, or indicate gang affiliation 8. Undershirts or underwear worn as an outer garment;

undergarments should not be visible9. Bare feet, unsafe footwear, and cleats10. Bathing suits11. (In the classroom) clothing required for physical education

classes12. Nonprescription sunglasses, glazed, or tinted glasses, except

as prescribed by the student’s doctor13. Any form of chains attached to wallets or pants14. Hoods and/or bandannas15. Pin curlers and other hair curling aids16. Other attire deemed inappropriate by the administration

Substance Abuse

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Please see Substance Abuse for policy and regulation information.

Harassment/Intimidation/BullyingIf you feel you or another person is being harassed, intimidated, or

bullied please inform administration or the anti-bullying specialist (extension: 2076) immediately. Also, there is an anonymous reporting box in the Media Center for people who wish to remain anonymous. Please see Harassment/Intimidation/Bullying for up to date policy and regulation information.

GENERAL INFORMATIONCommunicating with Teachers

Teachers can be reached by e-mail firstname.lastname@wwrsd.org or by calling the Main Office at 201-664-0880 X2062 for a secretary to take a message.

Parents may request conferences with teachers. To request a parent/guardian conference, please contact the teacher and school counselor, at 201-664-0880 x2073, and a conference will be arranged.

Security SystemStudents, staff, and parents/guardians are hereby notified that the

district maintains a security system at the Westwood Regional Jr./Sr. High School. The system consists of cameras, video recording devices, and monitors at strategic locations throughout the facility.  The primary purpose is the safety, protection, and well-being of the students and staff.  However, students, staff, and parents/ guardians are also notified that the school administration reserves the right to use this system to deter and remedy situations in which individuals are involved in activities which are in direct violation of the Discipline Code such as, but not limited to, vandalism, fighting, assaults, and loitering.  The system will also be used to investigate any situation where a member of our school community may have caused or incurred harm or otherwise also acted within the limits of N.J.S.A. 18A:37-13 et seq.  The contents of such records will be reviewed by district administration when appropriate within their discretion in order to mitigate any situation that arises and are the sole property of the district.  It is important to note that this systems is recording 24 hours daily, but is not monitored by an individual at all times.

GENERAL RULES AND REGULATIONS

Academic DishonestyWestwood Regional Jr./Sr. High School is committed to the

promotion of intellectual and moral development. The fulfillment of these goals depends largely on the personal integrity of each student and on the bond of mutual trust that exists between faculty and students. All course requirements are expected to be fulfilled by

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work that is the exclusive product of one’s own effort without unauthorized help from any other source. In keeping this trust, the student advances his/her own academic growth and maturity.

The assumption of academic honesty is an essential element of the educational process. Sanctions do exist, however, for those who would betray this trust.

Breaches of academic honesty are dangerous to both the morale and reputation of the school. They undermine the principles upon which Westwood Regional Jr./Sr. High School was founded. The academic integrity of every student is important so that Westwood Regional Jr./Sr. High School may continue its proud tradition of excellence.

Cheating is an act of deception by which a student misrepresents his/her mastery of material on a test or other academic exercise. Some examples of cheating are:

1. Copying from another student’s work2. Allowing another student to copy your work3. Using unauthorized material such as a textbook or notebook

during an assessment4. Using specifically prepared material such as notes written on

clothing or other unauthorized notes, formula lists, et., during an assessment

5. Collaborating with another person during an assessment by giving or receiving information without authority

To avoid a charge of plagiarism, a student should be sure to include an acknowledgement of indebtedness by citing the source from which the information came. Students may be required to submit their work to an online plagiarism checking database service. This may result in evidence of plagiarism. This would be then further investigated and result in the policies regarding plagiarism as stated by school policy.

Plagiarism is defined as, ‘the presentation of the ideas of writing of someone else as one’s own work.’ It includes the following:

1. Reproducing another person’s work, whether published or unpublished, including using materials from companies that sell research papers

2. Submitting as your own any academic exercise prepared totally or in part by another

3. Using another’s written ideas or words without properly acknowledging the source. If a student uses the words of someone else, he or she must put quotation marks around the passage and add indication of its origin. Simply changing a word or two while leaving the organization and content substantially intact and failing to cite the source is plagiarism. Students should also take note that failure to acknowledge study aids such as Cliff Notes or common reference sources constitutes plagiarism

4. All sources, including the sources of ideas, must be acknowledged and cited in ways appropriate to one’s

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discipline. Electronic sources, such as found in the Internet or on the World Wide Web, must also be cited

5. Failure to acknowledge sources is plagiarism, regardless of intention

In most cases a zero (0) will be imposed as a consequence of cheating/plagiarism and notice will be sent home. In the case of a long written assignment, such as a term paper, any students involved in the copying may receive an “F.” Students may lose eligibility or member status in academic clubs/organizations, including honors societies, if found guilty of academic dishonesty. These consequences occur after an investigation has occurred and are given by the school’s disciplinarian.

Cell Phones/Radios/Electronic DevicesStudents and parents understand that such items are brought to

school at the student’s own risk, and the school will not be responsible for lost or stolen items. It is expected that students will put their device away when asked by a staff member.

School ActivitiesSchool sponsored activities and other events are provided for

students so that they may better enrich the experience had at Westwood Regional Jr./Sr. High School. It is expected that all students will conduct themselves in accordance with school policies at all times while participating in or attending such events. Behavioral expectations include, but are not limited to the following:

1. Under normal circumstances, all spectators will have to purchase tickets and enter the facility where the event is to take place

2. No one will be permitted to loiter outside the gym during sporting events and dances or outside the auditorium during stage presentations (intermissions not included)

3. No one will be permitted to loiter in parked cars or parking lots

4. Individuals causing disturbances will be removed5. Individuals drinking alcoholic beverages, using illegal drugs, or

under the influence of alcoholic beverages or drugs will be removed from the activity and may be subject to prosecution. This applies to activities held out of school as well (i.e., proms, field trips)

6. Students who are placed on suspension may not participate in or attend school sponsored activities during the period of time their suspension is in effect

7. When no school-sponsored activities are scheduled, no one is permitted to be on school grounds except those individuals who have permission to be there

Fire and School Security Drills

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In general, the four (4) safety drills are evacuation, shelter-in-place, lockdown, and code blue (cardiac event) . New Jersey State Education Law requires that one (1) fire drill and one (1) school security drill per month be held throughout the school year to prepare students for a safe and secure environment should an emergency arise. During a fire drill, all students and personnel will be directed to leave the building with their classes and assemble on the lawn or parking lot.

When students hear the fire alarm they must assume it is real and not a practice drill. Every precaution is made to prevent fires and students are expected to do what is necessary and prudent to cooperate. This includes reporting any unsafe conditions that may lead to fire. The simple rules to follow during a fire drill are as follows:

1. No noise of any sort is permitted so emergency directions can be heard if needed

2. Students should stay with their teacher and class at all times3. Pushing, shoving and horseplay are strictly forbidden4. If an exit is blocked, proceed in an orderly manner to the

nearest available exit5. Be familiar with all the fire exit procedures posted in each

assigned room attended dailySchool security information is posted in in every room in the building.

Parking at SchoolParking is a privilege for senior students eligible to drive. Parking is

limited and will be assigned to seniors only. Seniors will be permitted to park on school grounds provided:

1. A valid driver’s license and registration card is presented and photocopied for office files.

2. The student’s car is parked only in the parking spots assigned at the time of registration.

3. The vehicle is registered in the Main Office and displays a current school registration tag.

The parking lot is off limits to students while school is in session. Permission from the office is required in order for a student to go to the parking lot during classes, except when accompanied by a teacher. (Seniors who have permission to leave school grounds for lunch may go to their cars only during their lunch periods and study halls, but only for the purpose of leaving school grounds. Seniors may not eat lunch in their cars.)

The flow of traffic in the parking lot is one way coming in to the student parking lot from Ellen Place. No one should exit school rounds via Ellen Place.

The speed limit in the school parking lot is ten (10) miles per hour. Anyone exceeding the limit or operating a motor vehicle in a careless or reckless manner will be reported to the police and will automatically lose parking privileges.

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Students must comply with all regulations governing driving privileges as set forth by Westwood Regional Jr./Sr. High School. Any cars which are illegally parked will be towed at the owner’s expense and/or a summons will be issued by the Township of Washington Police. No person should park a motor vehicle in a parking space or area upon the premises of Westwood Regional Jr./Sr. High School unless assigned that space by the principal or designee (Ord.#97-12). Failure on the part of a student to abide by the rules and regulations regarding driving privileges and the use of the parking lot may also result in the loss of the privileges. Please be advised that utilizing a parking space on school grounds allows for any such motor vehicle to be searched by school administration with reasonable suspicion.

Any underclassmen found parking on school grounds will be subject to the discipline outlined in the code of conduct.

Personal PropertyEach student is responsible for his/her personal property while in

school and care needs to be taken to ensure minimum risk of loss. Students are also responsible for textbooks and other materials issued to them. Textbooks and other personal property should not be left unattended. Students are urged not to place money and other valuables in their lockers and to lock their hall and physical education locker at all times. Students are urged to place their names in all personal property and clothing brought to school.

Prohibited ItemsIt is forbidden to bring knives, weapons, controlled dangerous

substances (such as tobacco, illegal drugs, and alcohol), and incendiary devices (such as firecrackers and smoke bombs) to school. School authorities are required to report to the police department any incident involving these items.

School PropertyStudents are expected to keep the school neat and clean. Pride in

the school and the property belonging to it will produce a better school in which to work and live. The physical condition of the campus reflects the character of the student body.

Any school property lost or damaged by a pupil must be paid for by the student. Accidental damage is one thing; but malicious destruction of school property will be dealt with severely. Significant fines may result in a “freeze” of the student’s academic record.

Textbooks are the property of the Board of Education for students’ use. These books must be returned at the close of the school year in good condition. In the event of unreasonable wear, a fine will be assessed. Any lost book must be paid for based on the current cost of replacement. It is the student’s responsibility to have all books covered at all times. Students’ names must be placed in the appropriate place on the stamp in the book.

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Student and Locker SearchesEach student in attendance in school is protected against illegal, or

unreasonable, personal searches or seizures of property by both federal and state constitutions. However, school officials have the right to conduct a search of any person and/or locker if there is a “reasonable suspicion” that materials are being concealed, the possession of which, is prohibited by law or by the rules of this school (this includes stolen items). Westwood Regional Jr./Sr. High School reserves the right to search a student’s locker, other storage facility, or person. This will serve as the written notice to that effect for students and parents/guardians. Students and parents/guardians are informed herein that inspection may occur at any time at the discretion of the school administration.

Study Hall Standards1. Study halls are to have an academic atmosphere. They are

not to be used for socializing.2. Students are to use the time to complete class assignments or

to read.3. Students will not be excused from their study hall by the

teacher unless a pass is presented to the study hall teacher. If a student requests permission to go to the Main Office, Guidance Office, or to see another teacher, a pass must be obtained by the study hall teacher.

4. Students may receive a pass to go to the Media Center at the discretion of the study hall teacher. Those then leaving for the Media Center are to remain in there for the entire period.

5. Seniors who have Senior Privilege Cards may leave the building during lunch and study hall periods. Seniors are not required to report to study hall before leaving the building and are expected to return to school on time for the next class. Failure to do so will result in the loss of this privilege.

6. Check-in is necessary for any student having a 9:00 am study hall.

STORMY WEATHER REGULATIONSAny change in the normal opening of school will be signaled by

sounding the towns’ siren systems at 6:30, 7:00, and 7:30 A.M. Specific information about the changes for the day can be obtained in any of the following ways:

By logging onto the District Website at www.wwrsd.org By calling the District Switchboard – 201-664-0880 after 6:00

A.M. By contact through School Messenger phone call. By receiving a district e-mail (you must be a subscriber to

district E-Newsletter).

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o By logging onto the WOR website at www.worschoolclosings.info

ALL DAY CLOSING All extracurricular activities, practices, and school-aged childcare

programs are canceled.DELAYED OPENING All schools will be open 90 minutes later than their normal start

times: Jr./Sr. High School 9:30 A.M. Pre-School Disabled/ Preschool Integrated 10:20 A.M. STAFF WILL REPORT 90 MINUTES LATER THAN THEIR OFFICIAL

START TIME. All before school clubs/activities will be cancelled. All bus pick-ups will be 90 minutes after normal time. All students will be dismissed at their normal time.DELAYED OPENING CHANGED TO AN ALL DAY CLOSING Sound of the siren at 8:00 and 8:30 A.M. will signal this change.

District and radio websites, switchboard, and School Messenger notification will be updated as well.

ONE SESSION DAY (EARLY DISMISSAL) A stormy weather bulletin regarding early dismissal and school

closings will be sent to each home in the fall of each school year. Students will be dismissed at 12:16 P.M. in the event of early dismissal due to inclement weather. Lunches will not be served. Please refer to www.wwrsd.org for policy and regulation information.Please refrain from calling the local Police Departments or school authorities for information to ensure that telephone lines remain clear for emergencies.

SUPPORT NUMBERS & INFO

Addiction Hotline of NJ.....................800-238-2333Child Abuse

.....................................................800-531-1096

.....................................................800-792-8610Children’s Mobile Crisis....................877-652-7624Community Resource Council..........201-343-4900National Runaway Switchboard............................. 800-786-2929NJ AIDS/STD Hotline.........................800-624-2377NJ Domestic Violence Hotline...........800-225-0196Rape Crisis.......................................201-487-2227Mental Health Crisis Intervention.....201-262-4357

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TELEPHONE DIRECTORYThe following is a list of extension numbers for the school district.

These extensions can be used by dialing 201-664-0880. All other phone numbers can be found at www.wwrsd.org. Nurse 208

7 Supervisors Offices

PE/Athletic Department English 2228Athletic Director 213

9 Math 2054

Athletic Trainer 2129 World Language & ESL 2070

Special Services 2031 Business Technology 2067

Jr./Sr. High School CST Team

2033 Science 2058

Main Office VP & Related Arts 2064Principal 206

5 Social Studies 2066

Asst. Principal 2050 Music Department 2162

Asst. Principal 2062

Guidance Department 2074

Attendance 2051 Media Center 2085

Student Asst. Counselor 2076 Cafeteria 2142

IMPORTANT DATES AND SCHEDULES

Regular Day ScheduleSenior High Junior High

A B C D A B C D8:00 – 9:01 1 4 3 2 1 4 3 29:04 – 10:04 2 1 4 3 2 1 4 310:07 – 11:01

3 2 1 4 3 2 1 4

11:04 – 11:58

L L L L 6 9 8 7

11:58 – 12:52

6 9 8 7 L L L L

12:55 – 1:55 7 6 9 8 7 6 9 81:58 – 2:58 8 7 6 9 8 7 6 9

Early Dismissal ScheduleSenior High Junior High

A B C D A B C D

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8:00 – 8:41 1 4 3 2 1 4 3 28:44 – 9:24 2 1 4 3 2 1 4 39:27 – 10:07 3 2 1 4 3 2 1 410:10 – 10:50

6 9 8 7 6 9 8 7

10:53 – 11:33

7 6 9 8 7 6 9 8

11:36 – 12:16

8 7 6 9 8 7 6 9

Delayed Opening ScheduleSenior High Junior High

A B C D A B C D9:30 – 10:18 1 4 3 2 1 4 3 210:21 – 11:09

2 1 4 3 2 1 4 3

11:12 – 11:53

3 2 1 4 3 2 1 4

11:56 – 12:37

L L L L 6 9 8 7

12:37 – 1:18 6 9 8 7 L L L L1:21 – 2:09 7 6 9 8 7 6 9 82:12 – 2:58 8 7 6 9 8 7 6 9

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