Untitled - Plymouth Regional High School - SAU 48
Untitled - Plymouth Regional High School - SAU 48
Untitled - Plymouth Regional High School - SAU 48
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Dear Students and Parents/Guardians,<br />
Thank you for taking the time to read through this handbook. As part of our commitment to our school’s mission statement, we have<br />
put everything into this handbook that you might need to know in order to navigate your way through our high school system. We<br />
want to make sure that you have all the tools you need “…to develop and demonstrate the skills, attitudes, and knowledge essential<br />
to attaining excellence in self, family, and community.” In this handbook, you’ll find our rules and procedures, the names and places<br />
you’ll need to know so that you can join in our activities or get help with a problem, and the programs we have to help you set your<br />
academic goals so that you are eligible for honors and awards as you move closer and closer to graduation.<br />
<strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> is a great place to learn, to make friends, and to find adults who care and who will lead you in the<br />
right direction. If you ever need anything; just ask. This Community of Caring <strong>School</strong> is a place where respect, responsibility, trust,<br />
caring and family are valued. We hope you will take an active part in our school community and that you will contribute in class, in<br />
clubs and activities, and in sports so that you may demonstrate excellence as you have fun and as you learn.<br />
On behalf of the entire faculty and staff, we challenge you to strive for excellence!<br />
Sincerely,<br />
Bruce W. Parsons<br />
Principal<br />
Randy Cleary<br />
Interim Assistant Principal<br />
Director of Career and Technical Education<br />
Robert J.R. Price<br />
Assistant Principal<br />
Dr. Kerry Schnell<br />
Director of Special Education<br />
Dr. Phil Sanguedolce<br />
Director of Health and Clinical Services; <strong>School</strong> Psychologist<br />
Charles Lenahan<br />
Director of Athletics<br />
Todd Austin<br />
Interim <strong>School</strong> Safety Coordinator<br />
Daniel Pierce<br />
Technology Coordinator<br />
2
2012 - 2013 <strong>School</strong> Calendars....................................................118<br />
A Message From the Guidance Department.............................. 126<br />
Academic Jackets....................................................................... 134<br />
Academic Policies and Procedures............................................ 130<br />
Acceleration Policy..................................................................... 133<br />
Advanced Placement Testing Policy........................................... 134<br />
Announcements.......................................................................... 143<br />
Assemblies................................................................................. 143<br />
Athletics & Co-Curricular Participant Agreement........................ 138<br />
Attendance Policy....................................................................... 126<br />
Bullying and Cyberbullying......................................................... 154<br />
Bus Regulations......................................................................... 163<br />
Bus Routes & Schedules............................................................ 164<br />
Captains, Class & Club Officers Policy....................................... 139<br />
Cell Phones................................................................................ 147<br />
Cheating/Plagiarism................................................................... 147<br />
Class Dues................................................................................. 139<br />
Co-Curricular Activities............................................................... 122<br />
Co-Curricular Organizations....................................................... 139<br />
Confidential Records.................................................................. 132<br />
Course Load............................................................................... 130<br />
Credit Recovery Policy............................................................... 135<br />
Directory Information.................................................................. 124<br />
Discipline Procedures................................................................. 147<br />
Dismissal Policy.......................................................................... 129<br />
Dress Code................................................................................. 1<strong>48</strong><br />
Drop/Add Policy.......................................................................... 131<br />
Drug & Alcohol Policy................................................................. 159<br />
Early Graduation......................................................................... 131<br />
Early Release Policy................................................................... 129<br />
Earned Time Policy.................................................................... 137<br />
Eating Facilities.......................................................................... 143<br />
Exams (Final & Mid-terms)......................................................... 135<br />
Extended Learning Opportunity.................................................. 132<br />
Extra-Curricular Activities Attendance Policy.............................. 129<br />
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act................................ 123<br />
Fund Raising.............................................................................. 139<br />
GED............................................................................................ 131<br />
Grading....................................................................................... 135<br />
Graduation Honors Policy........................................................... 136<br />
Graduation Requirements.......................................................... 136<br />
Grievance Procedure.................................................................. 158<br />
Hazing Policy.............................................................................. 154<br />
Health & Clinical Services.......................................................... 144<br />
Homework Policy........................................................................ 133<br />
Honor Roll................................................................................... 134<br />
Independent Study..................................................................... 133<br />
Initiation of Activities................................................................... 139<br />
Internet Access Policy................................................................ 163<br />
Interscholastic Athletics Eligibility Requirements........................ 140<br />
Interscholastic Sports................................................................. 122<br />
Junior/Senior Prom Participation Contract................................. 140<br />
Library......................................................................................... 144<br />
TABLE OF CONTENTS<br />
Lockers and Valuables............................................................... 145<br />
Lost and Found........................................................................... 145<br />
Make-Up Work............................................................................ 129<br />
Military Recruiting Information.................................................... 124<br />
National Honor Society............................................................... 142<br />
National Technical Honor Society............................................... 142<br />
Nondiscrimination Policy Statement........................................... 157<br />
Nondiscrimination Under Federal Grants & Program................. 157<br />
Parking Regulations................................................................... 145<br />
Pemi-Baker Board and Administrators....................................... 121<br />
Perfect Attendance Award.......................................................... 128<br />
Permanent Records.................................................................... 131<br />
<strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Vision and Mission.................. 123<br />
Recurring Medical Conditions..................................................... 129<br />
Reporting & Confirming Absences.............................................. 127<br />
Reporting Procedures................................................................. 152<br />
Request to Attend a <strong>School</strong> Function......................................... 141<br />
Safe <strong>School</strong> Environment Policy................................................ 151<br />
<strong>SAU</strong> #<strong>48</strong> Philosophy of Education.............................................. 125<br />
<strong>School</strong> Insurance........................................................................ 145<br />
<strong>School</strong> Socials............................................................................ 141<br />
<strong>School</strong> Store............................................................................... 145<br />
Science Student Safety Contract................................................ 141<br />
Sexual Harassment as Sexual Abuse........................................ 153<br />
Sexual Harassment Defined....................................................... 152<br />
Smoking/Tobacco Discipline....................................................... 149<br />
Special Education Services........................................................ 145<br />
Starting a Club............................................................................ 141<br />
Student Acceptable Use Computer Policy.................................. 161<br />
Student Activities........................................................................ 138<br />
Student Behavior........................................................................ 147<br />
Student Drivers........................................................................... 146<br />
Student Government.................................................................. 142<br />
Student Residency Requirements.............................................. 128<br />
Students in Non-Credit Programs............................................... 129<br />
Study Halls................................................................................. 146<br />
Suicide Intervention Policy......................................................... 156<br />
Summer <strong>School</strong> Policy............................................................... 132<br />
Take Courses at PSU................................................................. 134<br />
Tardy Policy to <strong>School</strong>................................................................ 127<br />
Teacher Qualifications................................................................ 125<br />
Telephone................................................................................... 146<br />
Testing Programs........................................................................ 131<br />
Texts........................................................................................... 146<br />
Transportation to and From <strong>School</strong> Activities............................. 146<br />
Truancy Policy............................................................................ 129<br />
Video Surveillance...................................................................... 159<br />
Visitors........................................................................................ 146<br />
Weapons Policy.......................................................................... 161<br />
Web2school Parent Portal.......................................................... 135<br />
Withdrawing or Transferring From <strong>School</strong>.................................. 131<br />
Working Papers.......................................................................... 146<br />
Yearbook.................................................................................... 141<br />
3
2012 - 2013 <strong>School</strong> Calendars<br />
Mon.-Wed. August 20, 21, 22 Teacher In-Service<br />
Wednesday August 22 Freshmen Orientation<br />
Thursday August 23 1st Day of <strong>School</strong><br />
SCHOOL’S CLOSED<br />
Friday-Monday August 31-Sept. 3 Labor Day Holiday<br />
Tuesday September 25 Early Release – In-Service<br />
Monday October 8 Columbus Day<br />
Friday October 26 Teacher In-Service<br />
Monday November 12 Veteran’s Day<br />
Wednesday November 21 ½ Day<br />
Thursday - Friday November 22-23 Thanksgiving Recess<br />
Tuesday November 27 Early Release – In-Service<br />
Monday – Tuesday Dec. 24 Jan. 1 Holiday Recess<br />
Tuesday January 29 Early Release – In-Service<br />
Monday - Friday February 25–March 1 Winter Recess<br />
Monday March 26 Early Release – In-Service<br />
Monday - Friday April 22-26 Spring Recess<br />
Monday May 27 Memorial Day<br />
Tuesday May 28 Early Release – In-Service<br />
Tuesday June 11 Last Student Day<br />
Wednesday June 12 Last Teacher Day<br />
PLEASE NOTE: This calendar may be changed by school board action or by inclement weather<br />
conditions. Such changes will be announced [on WPNH 100.1, WSCY 106.9, WLNH 98.3, WCSH<br />
TV Channel 6 and WMUR TV channel 9, and an ALERT-NOW message will be sent to all families<br />
as far in advance as possible to avoid personal and family inconvenience. <strong>School</strong> cancellations, e.g.<br />
snow days, will extend the school year and teacher in-service days will subsequently be delayed.<br />
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PROGRESS REPORTS AND REPORT CARDS<br />
PROGRESS GRADES PROGRESS GRADES PROGRESS GRADES<br />
CLOSE DUE AVAILABLE ON-LINE<br />
September 25 September 28 October 3<br />
December 4 December 7 December 12<br />
February 14 February 19 February 22<br />
May 2 May 7 May 10<br />
GRADES CLOSE GRADES DUE REPORT CARDS<br />
AVAILABLE ON-LINE<br />
October 30 November 2 November 7<br />
January 15 January 18 January 23<br />
March 26 March 29 April 3<br />
June 11 June 12 After <strong>School</strong> Closes<br />
MIDTERM EXAM SCHEDULE<br />
DELAYED OPENING<br />
Locker Time 9:30 – 9:35<br />
Exam 1 9:35 – 11:15 100 minute exams<br />
Lunch 11:20 – 12:35<br />
Exam 2 12:40 – 2:20 100 minute exams<br />
*Mid-term exam grades are due Jan. 29 and will be available Feb.1<br />
EXAM DATES<br />
EXAM 1 EXAM 2<br />
Thurs., Jan. 10 Blue Period 1 Blue Period 3<br />
Fri., Jan. 11 White Period 1 White Period 3<br />
Mon., Jan.14 Blue Period 2 Blue Period 4<br />
Tues., Jan. 15 White Period 2 White Period 4<br />
ASSEMBLY SCHEDULE<br />
BLUE DAY<br />
WHITE DAY<br />
Locker Time 7:25 - 7:30 Locker Time<br />
Period 1 7:30 - 8:40 Period 1<br />
BREAK 8:40 - 8:50 BREAK<br />
Period 2 8:50 - 10:00 Period 2<br />
Period 3 10:05 - 12:05 Period 3<br />
Period 4 12:10 - 1:15 Period 4<br />
ASSEMBLY 1:15 - 2:20 ASSEMBLY<br />
PERIOD 3 LUNCH SCHEDULE<br />
A 10:05 - 10:35<br />
B 10:35 - 11:05<br />
C 11:05 - 11:35<br />
D 11:35 - 12:05<br />
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WHERE TO SEEK INFORMATION<br />
“Look for up-to-date school and sports information on our website: www.prhs.sau<strong>48</strong>.org”<br />
Often, students and parents do not know who to see in school for specific information.<br />
Here is a handy checklist for reference:<br />
<strong>High</strong> school phone number - 536-1444<br />
<strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Fax number - 536-3792<br />
Phone Extensions:<br />
Guidance Office Press 1<br />
Student Services & Special Ed Office Press 2<br />
Principal’s Office Press 3<br />
Assistant Principal’s Office Press 4<br />
Athletic Department Press 6<br />
Extension Directory Press 7<br />
Attendance Press 8<br />
Main Office Press 0<br />
<strong>School</strong> Nurse Extension 2005<br />
To see a counselor- Make an appointment in the Guidance Office during study hall, break, and lunch, between classes or after<br />
school. Forms are available in Guidance.<br />
To get help with your locker or change your locker- Go to Main Office<br />
In case of illness- Go to the nurse.<br />
To find a lost article- Check lost & found under teacher mailboxes in Main Office.<br />
To have a notice printed in daily announcements- Write notice on an announcement form located in the main office before 11:00<br />
a.m. the day prior to the announcement. The notice must be signed by the student and the advisor authorizing the announcement.<br />
To use the telephone- Pay phones are located in the main lobby for use during study hall or before or after school. There is also<br />
a phone in the Main Office for use after school and a pay phone in the cafeteria for use during lunch.<br />
To change schedule- Go to your Guidance counselor during study hall, break, lunch or after school.<br />
To deposit money- See the Administrative Assistant to the Principal in the Principal’s Office.<br />
Parking permits - Registration and approval from the Main Office.<br />
To put up a poster- Go to the Main Office for approval.<br />
Fire Drill - See evacuation plan posted in each room.<br />
To see the Principal- See the Administrative Assistant to the Principal in the Principal’s Office to make an appointment.<br />
To see either Assistant Principal- Go to the Main Office and make an appointment with the Assistant Principal’s secretary.<br />
To schedule an event, field trip or co-curricular activity – Request forms are in the Main Office. Please see the Secretary to the<br />
Assistant Principal and fill out the appropriate request form.<br />
To purchase school supplies - Go to the school store.<br />
To get working papers – During the school year you can obtain working papers from the Main Office. From mid-June through<br />
mid-August you can obtain working papers at the <strong>SAU</strong> Office.<br />
If you are tardy to school (after 7:30 a.m.) - Go to the Main Office for an admittance pass.<br />
If you are tardy to class- Go directly to that class.<br />
To inquire about English as a Second Language (ESL) Services – Go to the Guidance Office.<br />
120
PEMI-BAKER REGIONAL SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS<br />
Catherine Hahn, Chairperson<br />
Lisa Ash, Assistant Chairperson<br />
Ross Deachman, Andy Hancock, Sue Judd,<br />
Barbara Noyes, Kathy Ringlein, Walter Joyce, Sam Brickley,<br />
Peter Pettengill, Carolyn Varin, Ed Gaiero, Tim Naro<br />
DISTRICT ADMINISTRATORS<br />
Mark J. Halloran<br />
Superintendent of <strong>School</strong>s<br />
Ethel Gaides<br />
Assistant Superintendent<br />
Kathleen Boyle<br />
Assistant Superintendent<br />
Fran Gonsalves Special Education Director <strong>SAU</strong> #<strong>48</strong><br />
Jon Francis<br />
<strong>SAU</strong> #<strong>48</strong> Facilities Director<br />
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS<br />
Bruce W. Parsons<br />
Principal<br />
Randy Cleary<br />
Interim Assistant Principal<br />
Director of Applied Technology<br />
Robert J. R. Price<br />
Assistant Principal<br />
Dr. Kerry Schnell<br />
Director of Special Education<br />
Charles Lenahan<br />
Director of Athletics<br />
Dr. Phil Sanguedolce Director of Health & Clinical Services/<br />
<strong>School</strong> Psychologist<br />
Todd Austin<br />
Interim <strong>School</strong> Safety Coordinator<br />
Daniel Pierce<br />
Technology Coordinator<br />
121
INTERSCHOLASTIC SPORTS<br />
Charles Lenahan – Director of Athletics<br />
Football Boys’ Basketball Girls’ Basketball<br />
Baseball Softball Boys’ Track<br />
Girls’ Track Girls’ Lacrosse Boys’ Lacrosse<br />
Field Hockey Wrestling Alpine Skiing<br />
Ski Jumping X-Country Skiing Boys’ Soccer<br />
Girls’ Soccer Girls’ Volleyball Cross-Country Running<br />
Boys’ Tennis Girls’ Tennis Golf<br />
Cheerleading Gymnastics Swimming<br />
CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES<br />
Robert Price – Assistant Principal<br />
Community of Caring<br />
Dance Club<br />
DECA - Distributive Education Club of America<br />
Granite State Challenge<br />
HOSA – Health Occupations Students of America<br />
Ice Hockey Club<br />
Literary Magazine<br />
National Honor Society<br />
National Technical Honor Society<br />
OSSIPEE Club<br />
Outing Club<br />
Pep Band<br />
Students for Diversity<br />
Student Government<br />
Theater<br />
Winter Carnival<br />
Yearbook<br />
122
PLYMOUTH REGIONAL HIGH SCHOOL VISION<br />
and MISSION<br />
Growth: Every person, every day, some way.<br />
CORE VALUES<br />
<strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>’s core values encourage a culture of respect, responsibility, integrity, honesty, and academic<br />
excellence. These core values act as the foundational commitments to students and the <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> community<br />
and enhance the school’s mission:<br />
Together we challenge one another to develop and demonstrate the attitudes, skills and knowledge essential to attaining<br />
excellence in self, family and community.<br />
BELIEFS<br />
• We believe students learn best in a healthy and safe environment connected with caring adults who are respectful role models.<br />
• We believe students learn best when challenged with clear, high expectations and are shown samples of quality work.<br />
• We believe students learn best when encouraged to think independently within a culture of collaboration.<br />
• We believe students learn best when instruction is engaging, relevant and applicable to the real world.<br />
• We believe students learn best when assessments are challenging, varied, and accurately demonstrate what students know<br />
and are able to do.<br />
• We believe students must have an understanding of the world within and beyond our community, state, and country in order to<br />
participate effectively in society.<br />
21ST CENTURY SCHOOL-WIDE LEARNING EXPECTATIONS<br />
Academic Expectations<br />
• Students will communicate effectively through writing<br />
• Students will communicate effectively through speaking<br />
• Students will engage in the process of critical thinking and problem solving<br />
• Students will develop and apply information literacy skills<br />
• Students will approach challenges with creativity and innovation<br />
Social Expectations<br />
• Students will work collaboratively<br />
• Students will work independently and responsibly<br />
Civic Expectations<br />
• Students will participate in civic life as informed citizens<br />
FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT<br />
Notification of Rights:<br />
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age (“eligible students”)<br />
certain rights with respect to the students education records. They are:<br />
1. The right to inspect and review the student’s educational records within 45 days of the day the District receives a request for<br />
access.<br />
Parents or eligible students should submit to the school Principal a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to<br />
inspect. The Principal will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where<br />
the records may be inspected.<br />
2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate<br />
or misleading.<br />
Parents or eligible students may ask the <strong>School</strong> District to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They<br />
should write the school Principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or<br />
misleading.<br />
If the District decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the District will notify the parent<br />
or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing with the Superintendent regarding the request for<br />
amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when<br />
notified of the right to a hearing.<br />
3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to<br />
the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.<br />
123
One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A<br />
school official is a person employed by the District as an Administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including<br />
health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); the <strong>School</strong> Board when in session; a person or company with whom<br />
the District has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent<br />
or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in<br />
performing his or her tasks.<br />
A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her<br />
professional responsibility.<br />
MILITARY RECRUITING INFORMATION<br />
It is the policy of the Pemi-Baker <strong>School</strong> District to comply with the intent and spirit of Section 9528 of the Law titled The No Child<br />
Left Behind Act of 2001.<br />
Data submitted to the federal government will consist of the names, addresses, and phone numbers of all students currently enrolled<br />
at <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>.<br />
The <strong>School</strong> District does recognize the right of parents or students of majority age, to request that their data not be sent to the<br />
federal government. The appropriate forms will be made available to all students/parents so their right to decline can be exercised.<br />
DIRECTORY INFORMATION<br />
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a Federal law, requires that the Pemi-Baker <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>School</strong> District with<br />
certain exceptions, obtain your written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from your child’s education<br />
records. However, the Pemi-Baker <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>School</strong> District may disclose appropriately designated “directory information” without<br />
written consent, unless you have advised the District to the contrary in accordance with district procedures. The primary purpose<br />
of the directory information is to allow the Pemi-Baker <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>School</strong> District to include this type of information from your child’s<br />
education records in certain school publications. Examples include:<br />
• A playbill, showing your student’s role in a drama production;<br />
• The annual yearbook<br />
• Honor roll or other recognition lists;<br />
• Graduation programs, and<br />
• Sports activity sheets, such as for wrestling, showing weight and height of team members.<br />
• Alumni Directory<br />
• <strong>School</strong> Web Page<br />
Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, can also<br />
be disclosed to outside organizations without a parent’s prior written consent. Outside organizations include, but are not limited<br />
to, companies that manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks. In addition, two federal laws require local educational agencies<br />
(LEAs) receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to provide military recruiters, upon<br />
request, with three directory information categories – names, addresses and telephone listings – unless parents have advised the<br />
LEA that they do not want their student’s information disclosed without their prior written consent.*<br />
If you do not want the Pemi-Baker <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>School</strong> District to disclose directory information from your child’s education records<br />
without prior written consent, you must notify the District in writing by the third Monday in September. The Pemi-Baker <strong>Regional</strong><br />
<strong>School</strong> District has designated the following information as directory information:<br />
- Student’s name - Participation in officially recognized activities and sports<br />
- Address - Weight and height of members of athletic teams<br />
- Telephone listing - Electronic mail address<br />
- Photograph - Degrees, honors, and awards received<br />
- Date and place of birth - The most recent educational agency or institution attended<br />
- Major field of study - videos & tapes<br />
- Dates of attendance<br />
- Grade level<br />
*These laws are: Section 9528 of the ESEA (20 U.S.C 7908), as amended by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (P.L. 107-110),<br />
the education bill, and 10 U.S.C. 503, as amended by section 544, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2002 (P.L.<br />
107-107), the legislation that provides funding for the Nation’s armed forces.<br />
124
TEACHER QUALIFICATIONS<br />
A parent may request information regarding the professional qualifications of their student’s teachers. This information consists of<br />
the following:<br />
1. Whether the teachers are qualified (certified) for the grade levels and/or subject areas taught,<br />
2. Whether the teacher is teaching under emergency or other professional status that the state has waived,<br />
3. The degree major and any other graduate certification or degree held and the field of discipline of certification or degree,<br />
4. Whether the child is provided services by other professionals and if so their qualifications,<br />
5. And even without a parent request, if a child has been taught for more than four weeks by a teacher that is not highly qualified<br />
(certified), the parent will be notified.<br />
<strong>SAU</strong> #<strong>48</strong> PHILOSOPHY OF EDUCATION<br />
<strong>SAU</strong> #<strong>48</strong> is committed to education that fosters complete, productive individuals who are challenged by their school environment<br />
and to education that recognizes student differences. Embodied in this commitment is the responsibility to provide an educational<br />
environment that nurtures students’ particular strengths, stimulates their personal growth, and encourages their contributions to<br />
the community.<br />
Any programming designed to meet individual needs recognizes differences in learning style, rate, and level of interest. Programming<br />
should include flexible but comprehensive curricula of within-discipline and cross-discipline studies. These studies should allow for<br />
both vertical acceleration and horizontal in-depth study and research. Programming may require innovative scheduling; grouping<br />
that reflects varied ages, sizes, skills and interests; and multiple teaching strategies implemented by regular staff, mentors and<br />
resource people.<br />
We believe:<br />
• All students should be nurtured.<br />
• Nurtured students exhibit strengths in many areas, including visual art, music, dance, drama, math, social studies, science,<br />
language, athletics, social interaction, leadership, creativity, interpersonal skills, communication and technology education.<br />
• Identification and assessment of student strengths should be documented.<br />
• Identification and assessment of student strengths direct instruction.<br />
• Strengths are dynamic not static.<br />
• Nurturing strengths is more important than labeling.<br />
• A variety of learning options are required to meet programming needs.<br />
• All students need to be able to analyze, research, and solve problems.<br />
The program should:<br />
• Foster problem solving and creative thinking skills.<br />
• Develop self-directed learning (student-based research).<br />
• Encourage development of self-awareness, personal strengths, and social responsibility.<br />
• Promote students’ self-esteem and realistic assessments of individual strengths and weaknesses.<br />
• Prescribe particular curriculum for individual needs.<br />
• Allow for peer-grouping interaction both in homogeneous and heterogeneous settings.<br />
• Help develop future career expectations and skills.<br />
• Provide opportunities for students to discover their interests and strengths.<br />
• Broker learning opportunities from a variety of sources and areas.<br />
125
126<br />
A MESSAGE FROM THE GUIDANCE DEPARTMENT<br />
The Guidance Department of <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> exists to serve you; the students of the school. The counseling staff<br />
is concerned with your total educational and personal development. We encourage you to work with your counselor to obtain the<br />
most meaningful education possible from <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>.<br />
Your counselors want to get to know you and assist you in preparing for the future, whether it is next year’s schedule or some<br />
future goal. As a result of their education and experience, the counselors have the background and the ability to help you plan for<br />
the future. The Guidance office contains a great deal of up-to-date information on schools of higher education, technical schools,<br />
military service, and job opportunities. Your counselors and the Guidance secretaries are anxious to assist you in utilizing the many<br />
materials available in the Guidance library.<br />
In addition to helping you plan for the future, the counselors of <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> want to assist you in understanding<br />
yourself and coping with the world around you. Your counselors want to be your advocate by helping you deal with teachers, parents,<br />
and relationships with your peers. The counselors are good listeners, and they hope you give them the opportunity to listen to you.<br />
Please feel free to visit the Guidance office during your study time and before and after school. You need not have a specific reason<br />
to visit. The Guidance staff is anxious to get to know you. Don’t be surprised to get a pass from your counselor requesting a meeting.<br />
The counselors make every attempt to meet individually with each student during the year, but don’t wait for them to contact you;<br />
set up an appointment yourself.<br />
The Guidance Department exists to serve you, whatever your needs are. Please get to know your counselor and take advantage<br />
of the services available to you.<br />
NOTE TO PARENTS<br />
Your student’s counselor is anxious to assist you in any matter regarding your son’s/daughter’s progress in school and future plans.<br />
Please do not hesitate to contact the Guidance office (536-1444, ext. 1) if you have any questions or concerns regarding your son’s/<br />
daughter’s education at <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>. The counselors hope to work cooperatively with students, teachers, and<br />
parents to provide an outstanding education at <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> and make plans for the future. There are many<br />
informational meetings concerning higher education throughout the school year. Parents of any high school student are welcome<br />
to attend regardless of the age or grade of the student.<br />
All of the guidance resources we have are available to parents/guardians as well as students. Feel free to come in and check out<br />
our materials in print, on video, and on computer. If you would like an orientation to our materials or any assistance using them,<br />
please call the Guidance office for an appointment, and we’ll be happy to assist you!<br />
COURSE SELECTION POLICY<br />
Parents/guardians/students possess the final authority and responsibility for a student’s course selections, provided reasonable<br />
pre-requisites have been met. Teachers, counselors and administrators have a responsibility to guide students and parents in the<br />
decision-making and may, of course, note their objections on the course selection sheet.<br />
ATTENDANCE POLICY<br />
Regular attendance and punctuality are important in obtaining a diploma, getting into college, getting and keeping a job, and/or<br />
getting into and advancing in the military. Many of the inquiries received by the Administration and Guidance office are requests for<br />
attendance records of students and former students. Employers are very interested in student attendance and punctuality. Poor<br />
attendance inhibits academic success and is a waste of human resources and tax dollars. When a student misses class, there is no<br />
way that those discussions can be completely made up; therefore, it must be assumed that absence from class will have a negative<br />
effect on a student and his/her grades.<br />
POLICY FOR RECORDING AND REPORTING STUDENT ATTENDANCE<br />
<strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> will follow state statutes for reporting attendance; see below.<br />
NEW HAMPSHIRE STATE LAW<br />
242:1 <strong>School</strong> Attendance; Compulsory Attendance by Pupil. Amend RSA 193:1, I to read as follows:<br />
I. A parent of any child at least six years of age and under eighteen years of age shall cause such child to attend the public school<br />
to which the child is assigned in the child’s resident district. Such child shall attend full time when such school is in session<br />
unless:<br />
(a) The child is attending a public school outside the district to which the child is assigned or an approved private school for the<br />
same time;<br />
(b) The child is receiving home education and is therefore exempt from this requirement;<br />
(c) The relevant school district superintendent has excused a child from attendance because the child is physically or mentally<br />
unable to attend school, or has been temporarily excused upon the request of the parent for purposes agreed upon by the<br />
school authorities and the parent. Such excused absences shall not be permitted if they cause a serious adverse effect upon<br />
the student’s educational progress. Students excused for such temporary absences may be claimed as full-time pupils for<br />
purposes of calculating state aid under RSA 186-C:18 and equitable education grants under RSA 198:41;<br />
(d) The pupil has been exempted from attendance pursuant to RSA 193:5;
(e) The pupil has successfully completed all requirements for graduation and the school district is prepared to issue a diploma<br />
or the pupil has successfully achieved the equivalent of a high school diploma by either:<br />
(1) Obtaining a GED certificate; or<br />
(2) Documenting the completion of a home school program at the high school level by submitting a certificate or letter to<br />
the department of education.<br />
(f) The pupil has been accepted into an accredited postsecondary education program; or<br />
(g) The pupil obtains a waiver from the superintendent, which shall only be granted upon proof that the pupil is 16 years of age<br />
or older and has an alternative learning plan for obtaining either a high school diploma or its equivalent.<br />
(1) Alternative learning plans shall include age-appropriate academic rigor and the flexibility to incorporate the pupil’s<br />
interests and manner of learning. These plans may include, but are not limited to, such components or combination of<br />
components of extended learning opportunities as independent study, private instruction, performing groups, internships,<br />
community service, apprenticeships, and on-line courses.<br />
(2) Alternative learning plans shall be developed, and amended if necessary, in consultation with the pupil, a school guidance<br />
counselor, the school principal and at least one parent or guardian of the pupil, and submitted to the school district<br />
superintendent for approval.<br />
(3) If the superintendent does not approve the alternative learning plan, the parent or guardian of the pupil may appeal<br />
such decision to the local school board. A parent or guardian may appeal the decision of the local school board to the<br />
state board of education consistent with the provisions of RSA 21-N:11, III.<br />
242:2 <strong>School</strong> Attendance; Bylaws as to Nonattendance. Amend RSA 193:16 to read as follows:<br />
193:16 Bylaws as to Nonattendance. Districts may make bylaws, not repugnant to law, concerning habitual truants and children<br />
between the ages of six and eighteen years not attending school or who are not participating in an alternative learning plan under<br />
RSA 193:1, I(g), and to compel the attendance of such children at school; failure to comply with such bylaws shall constitute a<br />
violation for each offense.<br />
242:3 Truant Officers; Duties. Amend RSA 189:36 to read as follows:<br />
189:36 Duties. Truant officers shall, when directed by the school board, enforce the laws and regulations relating to truants and<br />
children between the ages of eight and eighteen years not attending school or who are not participating in an alternative learning<br />
plan under RSA 193:1, I(g); and the laws relating to the attendance at school of children between the ages of eight and eighteen<br />
years; and shall have authority without a warrant to take and place in school any children found employed contrary to the laws<br />
relating to the employment of children, or violating the laws relating to the compulsory attendance at school of children under the age<br />
of eighteen years, and the laws relating to child labor. No home school pupil nor any person between the ages of six and eighteen<br />
who meets any of the requirements of RSA 193:1, I(c)–(g) shall be deemed a truant.<br />
TARDY POLICY TO SCHOOL<br />
It is imperative that students arrive to school on time. All students must report to their first period class prior to the late bell at 7:30<br />
a.m. If a student is tardy to school, after 7:30 a.m., he/she is to report to the office for an admittance slip. A record for all tardies will<br />
be kept in the office. If a student does not report to the office after being late or sign in to school in the main office, the student will<br />
serve a Friday In-<strong>School</strong> Suspension from 2:30 - 5:00 p.m.<br />
The first five tardies per quarter are excused. Each tardy after five will be equal to an after-school detention and will be served the<br />
next school day immediately following the tardy.<br />
REPORTING & CONFIRMING ABSENCES<br />
All absences from school must be confirmed either by phone or by a note from home.<br />
1. On the day of a student absence, parents/guardians must notify the Attendance Secretary no later than 8:00 a.m. (Voicemail is<br />
available by Pressing 8 while listening to the school recording for early/late messages.)<br />
2. Upon a student’s return to school, it is their responsibility to properly confirm absences in writing, otherwise the absence will be<br />
considered unexcused. An excused absence must contain the following:<br />
a. Student’s name<br />
b. Date of the absence<br />
c. A copy of a note from the doctor, college visitation, etc.<br />
SEVEN-CLASS ABSENCE LIMIT<br />
Students are expected to miss no more than seven class periods in any one year. This seven-class limit is not intended to allow a<br />
student seven classes to be absent but is a maximum. Students enrolling at <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> after the first day of<br />
school will have their attendance requirement pro-rated.<br />
A <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> credit has two requirements.<br />
The student must:<br />
1. Earn a passing grade in the subject<br />
2. Attend a minimum of 83 classes<br />
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When a student has missed class eight times in a year-long course; four in a half-year course; and two in a quarter-year course,<br />
the student will receive no credit for the course. Students who enroll at PRHS during the school year will have their absence limits<br />
proportionate to their time enrolled here. All class absences count toward the seven-class limit except doctor-verified illness, family<br />
emergencies, religious requirements, school-sponsored activities, and for juniors and seniors only; three days of documented college<br />
visitations each year. Work may be made up, except a zero will be given for all work due on the day of truancy or out-of-school<br />
suspension unless given Administrative approval. (Please refer to the truancy policy as well). A student who has been notified of his/<br />
her removal from class may remain in class an additional five days provided an appeal has been filed with the Assistant Principal.<br />
Appeals and hearings for an extension must be held within five school days following the notification of removal unless the postponement<br />
is not initiated by the student.<br />
APPEAL OF ABSENCE LIMIT<br />
A student who wishes to present evidence as to why he/she should be considered an exception to the attendance policy may<br />
request a hearing before an attendance board. This board will consist of the teacher(s) involved, the student’s Guidance counselor,<br />
the Guidance Director, and the Assistant Principal. The student and his/her parents (if they wish to be present) will present their<br />
evidence to the Board. Students should be aware that days out of school for sickness are included in the seven class absence limit<br />
and will not be a reason for an extension unless the sickness is a major or chronic illness that requires a doctor’s care or is over an<br />
extended period of time and is verified by a doctor.<br />
Attendance appeal hearings will generally be held in the Guidance office. The student will be allowed to state his/her case to the<br />
Appeal Board with evidence to back up the case. After the attendance Appeal Board has had a full opportunity to discuss the case<br />
and decide what action will take place, the Assistant Principal will contact the student to notify him/her of the decision. A letter outlining<br />
the decision of the board will be sent to the parents with a copy to the teacher(s) involved within three working days of the hearing.<br />
The Appeal Board could make any one of the following decisions:<br />
1. Exclude the student from the class by refusing the appeal.<br />
2. Accept the appeal and grant the student an exemption of a specified number of days of past absences. Some courses may<br />
require that the student make up missed class time (vocational education, practical arts, physical education, etc.).<br />
3. Make any other decision the board feels would resolve the problem.<br />
A copy of each appeal and the decision made will be forwarded to the <strong>School</strong> Board. Decisions made by the Appeal Board will be<br />
final unless due process has not been observed.<br />
PERFECT ATTENDANCE AWARD<br />
A student with perfect attendance will have attended school every day school was in session and not have been tardy or dismissed<br />
for any reason. The only exceptions to these criteria are school-sponsored activities (field trips, sports, etc.) and a maximum of three<br />
documented college visits for juniors and seniors.<br />
AGE OF MAJORITY<br />
Any person who has attained his or her eighteenth birthday is declared to be of majority age for all purposes except as prohibited by<br />
the Constitution of New Hampshire and the Constitution of the United States. These students must register at the Assistant Principal’s<br />
office as soon as they become eighteen.<br />
When a student attains the age of eighteen, that student, for most purposes, becomes legally independent of his or her parents or<br />
guardian, and parental permission for trips, absences, etc., will not be required. All dismissals and absences will be checked accordingly<br />
by the Administration. In addition, if an eighteen-year-old student is released during school hours for sickness, he or she will not need<br />
to be discharged to the custody of his or her parents. He/she will, however, need to see the nurse for a dismissal due to sickness. All<br />
other regulations will be applied equally to those students over and under eighteen years of age.<br />
No student may dismiss him/herself without approval of the nurse or Administration. Failure to do so will lead to disciplinary action.<br />
If an eighteen-year-old student wishes to have all school correspondence sent directly to him/her, the following procedure must be<br />
followed:<br />
1. The student must make the request to the school in writing to the Assistant Principal’s office.<br />
2. A copy of the request will be sent to the student’s parents.<br />
STUDENT RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS<br />
In order for a non-tuition student to attend <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>, the following parameters must be met:<br />
1. Parent or legal guardian must be a resident of the District.<br />
*Proof of residency may be required.<br />
2. Any non-adult student must reside with his/her parent or legal guardian to attend <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>.<br />
*Legal guardianship requires court approval. A court document con-firming legal guardianship must be on file for any student<br />
not residing with his or her biological parent(s).<br />
3. Any adult student not living with a legal guardian must file proof of residency.<br />
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STUDENTS IN NON-CREDIT PROGRAMS<br />
Students in non-credit programs and some who have IEP’s will not come under the attendance policy. In each case, the IEP’s will<br />
clearly state that attendance is not a criteria. Teachers should be informed by the Special Education Director as to which students<br />
are involved in this situation.<br />
RECURRING MEDICAL CONDITIONS<br />
A student that is diagnosed with a medical condition which will result in extended or repeated absences is eligible to request having<br />
the attendance requirement waived. Parent/Guardian(s) should bring documentation from a doctor that explains the condition and<br />
what modifications need to be made. Parent/Guardian(s), school nurse, the students’ guidance counselor and administration will<br />
develop a plan to accommodate the student.<br />
EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES ATTENDANCE POLICY<br />
1. A student is not permitted to participate or attend any school functions that day if:<br />
a. He/She has been absent from school<br />
b. He/She arrived at school after 9:10 a.m.<br />
c. Any student that is dismissed and does not return to school for his/her last academic class.<br />
d. A student is dismissed by the nurse or Director of Health & Clinical Services/<strong>School</strong> Psychologist.<br />
2. A student is not permitted to participate or attend any school functions for the weekend if:<br />
a. He/She is absent on Friday or comes in after 10:45 a.m.<br />
b. Any student that is dismissed and does not return to school for his/her last academic class.<br />
c. A student is dismissed by the nurse or Director of Health & Clinical Services/<strong>School</strong> Psychologist.<br />
3. PRIOR Administrative approval from the Athletic Director or Assistant Principal must be obtained for any exceptions to this policy.<br />
DISMISSAL POLICY<br />
Dismissal notes are to be dropped off to the Main Office in the morning. Whenever possible, medical and dental appointments should<br />
be scheduled after school. When this is not possible, the advance request for dismissal should include the name and telephone<br />
number of the doctor or dentist. <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> reserves the right to verify by telephone all appointments for which<br />
students may be dismissed.<br />
After receiving permission, any student leaving school grounds before the end of the school day MUST sign out at the office, indicating<br />
name, destination, and time leaving. Upon returning, the student must sign in indicating the time of return.<br />
Students will not be allowed to ride in a car driven by another student during school time unless approval is granted by an Administrator<br />
and permission is given by a parent(s) or legal guardian of both/all students.<br />
EARLY RELEASE POLICY<br />
Early Release is a privilege we extend to Juniors and Seniors with study halls during the last periods.<br />
The following provisions need to be adhered to:<br />
1. You will sign out each and every day, leave the building and grounds, and you will not return unless you are participating in an<br />
after school activity or are involved in sports. (The student may not return until 2:20 p.m.). If the student needs to make up a test<br />
or meet with a teacher when he/she is supposed to be on Early Release, the student must get prior approval from Administration.<br />
Failure to adhere to these parameters will result in disciplinary action up to and including revoking early release privileges.<br />
2. Early Release is granted with the understanding that the student maintains good academic and behavioral standing. Students<br />
must pass a minimum of four courses during the previous quarter and have no more than one failure to be eligible for Early<br />
Release.<br />
MAKE-UP WORK<br />
When a student has been absent or dismissed from class, it is the responsibility of the student to make arrangements with his/<br />
her teachers to make-up work. Upon returning to school, the student is to agree upon a make-up schedule with his/her teacher(s).<br />
Teachers will give students an appropriate amount of time to make up work. Students should also inform their Guidance counselor<br />
of any difficulties they have completing make-up work.<br />
TRUANCY POLICY<br />
“Truancy” means an unexcused absence from school or class. An “unexcused absence” is an absence which has not been excused in<br />
accordance with RSA 189:34, II(a). In accordance with RSA 189:34, II(a), the Pemi-Baker <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>School</strong> Board defines an “excused<br />
absence” as an absence for one of the following reasons: a doctor-verified illness, family emergencies, religious requirements, school<br />
sponsored activities, and for juniors and seniors only; three days of documented college visitations each year. A written notice will<br />
be sent to the parent in each truancy case. In all cases of truancy, a zero will be recorded for the class day, and no credit will be<br />
given for all work, tests, and quizzes. The following procedures will be followed in cases of truancy.<br />
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A. Process for exceptions to unexcused absences<br />
The following process will be used for considering exceptions to absences not otherwise excused.<br />
1. A request must be made in writing to the principal stating reasons for requesting an exception to any absence not otherwise excused.<br />
2. Factors to be considered by the Principal or his designee as part of the decision-making process are:<br />
a. Number of days to be missed<br />
b. Absence of any alternatives other than missing school days<br />
c. The students attendance to date<br />
d. Any special or extraordinary circumstances<br />
3. The principal or his designee will respond to such request within five school days.<br />
4. The decision of the principal or his designee is considered to be a final decision.<br />
B. Discipline for truancy from a class or classes:<br />
1. First offense - Two administrative detentions for each class truancy<br />
2. Second offense - One day of Friday in-<strong>School</strong> Suspension<br />
3. Third offense – A parental conference with an Administrator, the teacher involved, and the student and could result in a<br />
suspension from school<br />
C. Discipline for all day Truancy<br />
(When a student has been absent from school for the day or has left school without permission during the day)<br />
1. First offense - One day of Friday in-<strong>School</strong> Suspension and the parent will be notified<br />
2. Second through fifth offense - a parental conference with an administrator in addition to a suspension from school<br />
D. Truancy Intervention Process<br />
In accordance with Amend RSA 189.34<br />
1. Parent/guardian will be contacted for each absence<br />
2. In case of truancy parent will be notified<br />
3. Second truancy a parental conference with an Administrator<br />
4. Third truancy a parent conference with the Assistant Principal<br />
5. Fourth truancy a parental conference with the Principal<br />
6. If a student is truant for five full or ten half days, the police will be notified and asked to take appropriate action.<br />
If a student has been absent for five consecutive days and the school has been unable to contact the student or parents, a registered<br />
letter will be sent informing them that the student will be officially withdrawn from school unless contact is made within five school<br />
days of the receipt of the letter.<br />
Upon a student’s return to school, it is their responsibility to properly confirm absences in writing, otherwise the absence will be<br />
considered unexcused. An excused absence must contain the following:<br />
a. Student’s name<br />
b. Date of the absence<br />
c. A copy of a note from the doctor, college visitation, etc.<br />
All class absences count toward the seven-class limit except for excused absences. See definition of excused absences above.<br />
ACADEMIC POLICIES AND PROCEDURES<br />
COURSE COMPETENCIES POLICY<br />
The Pemi-Baker Cooperative <strong>School</strong> District established and maintains required competencies and associated assessments for each<br />
course offered through <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>. Assessments shall be aligned with clearly defined educational standards that<br />
specify what students should know and be able to do. The assessment items and tasks shall be valid and appropriate representations<br />
of the standards students are expected to achieve.<br />
For the purpose of assessment of high school course work, through demonstration of student mastery of course competencies, the<br />
following definitions are established:<br />
Course Level Competency: the expected content, concepts, and skills to be mastered in a course<br />
Competence Assessment: the process by which a student demonstrates sufficient evidence of learning<br />
Mastery: sufficient evidence of attainment of the required competencies<br />
COURSE LOAD<br />
A student must carry a minimum of six credits per year. Seniors may carry 5 ½ credits. Exceptions must be made through the<br />
Guidance office and approved by the Principal.<br />
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DROP/ADD POLICY<br />
Scheduling for each school year is conducted the previous spring. It is essential that students select their courses carefully and<br />
with the assistance of their counselors and teachers. Once a student’s schedule has been created, changes will be made only<br />
for extenuating circumstances and are subject to available space in desired courses. All drop/add requests should be completed<br />
within the first two weeks of each semester and all changes during this period require the approval of the parent/guardian, teachers,<br />
counselor and Administrator. Any requests for a change after the second week of school require a conference with the parent/guardian,<br />
counselor and teacher. NO COURSE MAY BE ADDED AFTER THE FIRST TWO WEEKS OF THE COURSE AND ALL COURSE<br />
DROPS MUST BE COMPLETED WITHIN THE FIRST SIX WEEKS OF THE COURSE. The students’ schedules are constructed<br />
for the following year on the assumption that they will pass the subjects that they are taking at the time. In the event of failure, the<br />
student’s program will be modified to incorporate the course(s) necessary to make up the failure(s).<br />
EARLY GRADUATION<br />
Students desiring to accelerate and complete high school in less than four years must so indicate in writing to the Principal. A letter from<br />
a parent or guardian must accompany the student’s request. All students planning to graduate early must meet all graduation requirements.<br />
The Guidance counselor and Administration will have final approval considering academic and personal goals of the student.<br />
WITHDRAWING OR TRANSFERRING FROM SCHOOL<br />
Effective July 1, 2009 the age of compulsory attendance changed from sixteen to eighteen years old. See the full text of the state<br />
law under the Attendance section of this handbook. Students between the ages of sixteen and eighteen wishing to withdraw from<br />
school must obtain a waiver from the superintendent of schools, which shall only be granted upon proof that the pupil is sixteen years<br />
of age or older and has an alternative learning plan for obtaining either a high school diploma or its equivalent. For any students<br />
wishing to withdraw or transfer to another school, prior to the last day of attendance, students will participate in an exit interview with<br />
a counselor. On the last day of attendance, the student will turn in all class materials (textbooks, calculators, etc.) and library books<br />
to respective teachers, pay any financial obligations, and clean out the assigned locker. Unofficial copies of the student’s grades<br />
will be given to the parent/guardian or student upon request. Official records will be forwarded to the new school upon receipt of a<br />
signed request from the parent/guardian/student. Arrangements will be made with the main office to complete all necessary forms.<br />
GED<br />
Any New Hampshire resident who is eighteen years or older may sign up for evening GED classes at PRHS to obtain a GED diploma.<br />
Evening GED classes at PRHS, if offered, are through a grant twice a year; September and January respectively. Each semester<br />
is thirteen weeks with classes being held two nights a week for 2 ½ hours each. At the end of the thirteen weeks, the Official GED<br />
test is administered on the following Saturday. GED classes are free; the only cost is $65 for the Official GED test – due on the day<br />
of the test. The test takes approximately 6 – 7 hours to complete. It takes about two weeks to receive the test results. A letter will<br />
be sent to the students with their scores and, if they pass, they will receive their GED Diploma approximately two weeks later in the<br />
mail from the Department of Adult Education.<br />
If you would like to find out more about GED classes or testing, please contact the GED Director at 534-1444, ext. 3.<br />
TESTING PROGRAMS<br />
Many new and interesting tests will be available to you throughout your four years in school. The purpose of these tests is to help<br />
you, your parents, teachers, counselor, and principal to better understand your personal needs.<br />
Following is a list of standardized tests provided at <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>:<br />
Required Tests<br />
Grade Given<br />
New England Common Assessment Program 11<br />
NWEA 9, 10<br />
Optional Tests<br />
Grade Given<br />
National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT) 11<br />
Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT) 10, 11<br />
Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) 11, 12<br />
Advanced Placement Exams 10, 11, 12<br />
Plan Test 10<br />
PERMANENT RECORDS<br />
A permanent record of every student ever registered at <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> is maintained by the high school Guidance<br />
office.<br />
These records include:<br />
1. Legal name, birth date, place of birth, date of entry, social security number and date of withdrawal/graduation<br />
2. Final grades and credits earned in high school<br />
3. Standardized test scores<br />
Students may see their files by appointment with the Guidance counselor.<br />
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CONFIDENTIAL RECORDS<br />
The following educational records may be collected, maintained and used by our school. Parents may review these records and are<br />
asked to send a letter to the Principal listing which records you wish to review. We will establish a time and date to accommodate<br />
your request. You may be charged a fee per page to copy these records.<br />
1. Cumulative Records are located in the Guidance Office.<br />
2. Health Records are located in the Nurse’s Office.<br />
3. Special Education files are located in the Special Education Office.<br />
4. 504 files are located in the Guidance Office.<br />
5. Student’s grades are located on the main computer and in the teacher’s grade book.<br />
6. Portfolios of student work and logs of student specific progress are kept in the teacher’s classroom.<br />
SUMMER SCHOOL POLICY<br />
Courses in which a student has received a failing grade below 50 are not eligible to take summer school unless approved by the<br />
principal. All requests to make up grades by attending summer school must be approved by the Guidance Department and the<br />
Administration in advance. Students should not be excluded from summer school for financial reasons. If tuition assistance is needed,<br />
please contact either the administration or a guidance counselor.<br />
Private tutoring, further defined as instruction conducted outside of a regular accredited high school program, is not acceptable as<br />
a means of earning credit for course failure. Exceptions may be considered if prior arrangements have been made, in advance,<br />
through the Guidance Department with the approval of the Principal.<br />
EXTENDED LEARNING OPPORTUNITY<br />
Purpose<br />
The Pemi-Baker <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>School</strong> Board allows students to pursue extended learning opportunities (ELO) as a means of acquiring<br />
knowledge and skills through instruction or study that is outside the traditional classroom methodology. Extended learning opportunities<br />
may include , but are not limited to, independent study, private instruction, internships, community service, apprenticeships, or other<br />
opportunities approved by the Superintendent or his/her designee, in conjunction with Board policies.<br />
The purpose of extended learning opportunities is to provide educational experiences that are meaningful and relevant, and that<br />
provide students with opportunities not otherwise available to explore and achieve at high levels. In order to maximize student<br />
achievement and meet diverse pathways for learning, this policy permits students to employ extended learning opportunities that are<br />
stimulating and intellectually challenging, and that enable students to fulfill or exceed the expectations set forth by State minimum<br />
standards and applicable Board policies.<br />
Extended learning opportunities may be taken for credit or may be taken to supplement regular academic courses. Extended learning<br />
opportunities may also be used to fulfill prerequisite requirements for advanced classes. The granting of credit shall be based on a<br />
student’s mastery of course competencies. The principal’s designee, a certified teacher, in conjunction with the administration must<br />
authorize the granting of credit for learning accomplished through extended learning opportunities.<br />
Roles and Responsibilities<br />
All programs of study must meet or exceed the proficiencies and skills identified by the New Hampshire State Board of Education,<br />
applicable rules and regulations of the Department of Education, and all applicable Board policies. All programs of study proposed<br />
through this program shall have specific instructional objectives aligned with the State minimum standards and District curriculum<br />
standards. All extended learning opportunities will comply with applicable laws and regulations, including child labor laws and<br />
regulations governing occupational safety.<br />
Students wishing to pursue programs of study under these guidelines must first present their proposal to the school’s ELO coordinator(s)<br />
for approval. The principal shall designate the person or persons responsible for acting as the ELO coordinator(s). The name and<br />
contact information for the school’s ELO coordinator(s) can be obtained by contacting the Principal’s Office. The designated ELO<br />
coordinator will assist students in preparing the application form and other necessary paperwork. To earn ELO credit a student must<br />
obtain prior approval from the ELO coordinator(s) and do some careful planning with the student’s advisor, counselor, or teacher in<br />
the subject area to document his/her learning experience and present a portfolio of work to the coordinator for review. To earn ELO<br />
credit a student must demonstrate mastery of the competencies required in the course work studied. Prior to pursuing the ELO, the<br />
student will investigate the competencies needed and submit a curriculum outline to the ELO coordinator. Periodic review and revision<br />
will be scheduled and periodic assessment will provide feedback and guide the student’s experience to maximize its fullest potential.<br />
The principal will have primary responsibility for ensuring the implementation of extended learning opportunities and all aspects of<br />
such programs. The principal will determine who will be responsible for approving student eligibility and such approval will include<br />
a consideration of the overall benefits, costs, advantages and disadvantages to both the student and the district.<br />
The principal will review and determine credits that will be awarded for extended learning opportunities toward the attainment of<br />
a high school diploma. Parents/Guardians and/or students may appeal decisions rendered by the Principal within the provisions<br />
below (see Appeal Process).<br />
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Students under eighteen years of age, approved for extended learning opportunities must have parental/guardian permission to<br />
participate in such a program. Such permission will be granted through a Memorandum of Understanding for Educational Services<br />
signed by the parent/legal guardian if needed and returned to the designated ELO coordinator prior to beginning the program.<br />
All extended learning opportunities not initiated and designed by the district shall be the financial responsibility of the student or his/her<br />
parent/legal guardian. Students electing independent study, college coursework, internships, or other extended learning opportunities<br />
that are held off the high school campus will be responsible for providing their own transportation to and from the off-campus site.<br />
A Student approved for an off-campus extended learning opportunity is responsible for his/her own personal safety and well-being.<br />
Extended learning opportunities at off-campus sites will require a signed agreement among the school, the student, and an authorized<br />
agent of the third- party host. The agreement shall specify the roles and responsibilities of each party.<br />
Students may take courses for credit through an approved ELO. The school will count only one credit toward the minimum number<br />
of credits required to be carried each year. The grade earned for the course(s) shall not be included in the student’s GPA.<br />
Students, who take an on-line course through an approved ELO, will have that course noted on the official school transcript; whether<br />
or not the course is completed. Students taking a course through an approved ELO will be responsible for any expenses incurred<br />
due to a course drop.<br />
INDEPENDENT STUDY<br />
Students will be allowed to carry courses of independent study only after approval of the teacher, counselor and principal. In the<br />
course of four years, a student should not request to take any more than two credits toward graduation. No more than one credit<br />
will be allowed for each project.<br />
DISTRICT HOMEWORK POLICY<br />
Rationale:<br />
Trends in public education continue to underscore the importance of encouraging life-long learning and independent thinking in the<br />
development of successful individuals and contributing citizens. To that end, requiring academic work outside of the classroom to<br />
be completed during out-of-school hours fosters habits, routines, and skill development to support this valuable element of public<br />
education. The institution of common homework guidelines and expectations will serve to prepare all students in the district for<br />
each stage of their academic development, for the many independent aspects of the educational process, and for the earned credit<br />
system at <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> that prepares students for a variety of post-graduate programs such as higher education<br />
and job training.<br />
Time Guidelines:<br />
It is important to note that the following guidelines for amount of homework are based on expected duration of assignments for a<br />
typical student. If the amount of uninterrupted time that a child engages in homework is significantly more than what is listed below,<br />
parents and students are asked to contact their teacher(s) to discuss and address the disparity. The guidelines are to serve as<br />
a common denominator within the district and apply to regular, routinely assigned homework to practice and reinforce skills and<br />
information introduced in class and to prepare students for upcoming lessons and discussions.<br />
District Guidelines for total homework for a typical student in the following grades:<br />
Grade 9 90 minutes per night 5 times/week<br />
Grade 10 105 minutes per night 5 times/week<br />
Grades 11-12 120 minutes per night 5 times/week<br />
*Students enrolled in electives and upper level courses in the middle and high school years, such as foreign language and advanced<br />
math courses, can expect homework amounts higher than the guidelines provided above.<br />
**The district recommends that all students at all grade levels engage in daily leisure reading above and beyond homework<br />
expectations above.<br />
All students in grade 9 will be provided with daily planners in which students are to record nightly and long-term assignments.<br />
Acceptance of, and credit for late homework, is up to the individual teacher.<br />
ACCELERATION POLICY<br />
The Pemi-Baker <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>School</strong> District is committed to the principles of our Mission Statement: Together we challenge one another<br />
to develop and demonstrate the attitudes, skills and knowledge essential to attaining excellence in self, family and community.<br />
A. Students in their junior or senior year, who have demonstrated strength in a subject area and have been recommended by a teacher,<br />
will be allowed, with the Principal’s approval, to take a college course at PSU if scheduling permits. The high school transcript will<br />
reflect their course and grade. The credit can be counted for graduation requirements if the student so chooses, but the grade will<br />
not be included in the PRHS grade point average. A three-credit PSU course is equivalent to a .5 high school credit. Once enrolled<br />
in a PSU course, the student falls under the grading policies of PSU.<br />
B. PRHS credit will be granted only for coursework completed by students enrolled in grades 9-12 at PRHS, another high school,<br />
or PSU.<br />
1. Students who have taken Algebra or a Foreign Language in their respective middle schools can be accelerated in their<br />
coursework when they enter PRHS.<br />
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2. Elementary school students who have met the criteria for acceleration into Algebra or a Foreign Language and whose programming<br />
will be best met at the high school will be afforded the opportunity to take a course at PRHS, pending space availability<br />
as determined by the PRHS Principal.<br />
The student’s PRHS transcript will reflect the coursework and grade(s). The course(s) will not count toward PRHS graduation<br />
requirements, and the grade(s) will not be included in the PRHS grade point average.<br />
Transportation costs for these students will be borne by the elementary school district. Scheduling will be worked out by the<br />
elementary district.<br />
C. Students who take summer courses or other programs approved by the Administration will receive notation of course and<br />
grade on their transcript but credit will not be counted toward graduation and the grade will not be included in the PRHS grade<br />
point average. The student may be allowed to take the next course in the sequence after successfully testing for placement or<br />
completing a pre-requisite program of equivalent time and content.<br />
HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS TAKING COURSES AT PLYMOUTH STATE UNIVERSITY<br />
In conjunction with the Dean’s Office at the University, the following guidelines have been developed regarding students wishing to enroll<br />
in PSU courses while they are attending <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>.<br />
General expectations to keep in mind before applying are:<br />
A. Whether or not they meet the requirements of the Acceleration Policy, all students who wish to enroll in courses at PSU must<br />
apply through the PRHS Guidance office and must meet all applicable guidelines and requirements.<br />
1. The student’s academic performance must be strong in all areas.<br />
2. The student must be in his/her junior or senior year.<br />
3. The student must have successfully completed all coursework in the chosen field available at PRHS.<br />
4. The student must be a full time student in the high school. To maintain student status at PRHS a student must sustain the<br />
equivalent of six courses per semester, one of which may be a PSU course.<br />
5. A student may take a limit of two PSU courses per school year but not more than one PSU course per high school semester.<br />
Up to two full credits may be awarded toward PRHS graduation.<br />
B. <strong>Plymouth</strong> State University offers half tuition scholarships each semester to a limited number of PRHS students. For those<br />
students who meet the requirements of the Acceleration Policy, the Pemi-Baker <strong>School</strong> District will pay the balance of tuition,<br />
fees, and books for students receiving a scholarship from PSU. For those students who meet the guidelines of the Acceleration<br />
Policy but do not receive a scholarship, the Pemi-Baker <strong>School</strong> District will pay for the student’s full tuition, books and fees.<br />
C. No student is to approach a PSU instructor for admittance to a course as part of their high school program before the student<br />
has made application through the PRHS Guidance Department and the PSU Dean’s Office.<br />
D. PRHS students are not allowed to audit PSU courses paid for by the Pemi-Baker <strong>School</strong> District.<br />
E. Students take courses at PSU on a space available basis. Students enrolled in courses at PSU are expected to complete those<br />
courses. PSU policy regarding course drops applies to students from the high school. Students are responsible for understanding<br />
the PSU course drop policy and for following it. Students will be responsible for any expenses incurred due to a course drop.<br />
AP TESTING POLICY<br />
The <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Advanced Placement (AP) Program reflects our mission by challenging students to develop<br />
attitudes, skills and knowledge through their coursework that will enable them to demonstrate their excellence through the AP Testing<br />
Program. <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> will fund the cost of the test as follows: for students with an average of 85 or better at the end<br />
of third quarter, PRHS will pay the full cost for the exam. All other students registering for the exam will pay a deposit equal to the total<br />
cost of the test. This payment will be held in escrow and returned, in full, if the student earns a qualifying score of three or better and<br />
will be forfeited for a student who does not qualify with a score of three or better. Any student failing to take the exam will be charged<br />
the minimum penalty fee for returning the test. A full fee waiver of all charges will be available to any student demonstrating need as<br />
determined by the Principal.<br />
HONOR ROLL<br />
Students must be enrolled in the equivalent of six courses (5½ for seniors), which meet every other day for 90 minutes and maintain<br />
the following grades each quarter to be placed on the honor roll. <strong>High</strong> honors are obtained by securing an average of 90 or better<br />
in each class. Honors are obtained by securing 80 or better in each class.<br />
ACADEMIC JACKETS<br />
Jackets will be awarded by the Northway Bank to those students demonstrating academic excellence. To be eligible for a jacket, a<br />
student must accumulate 15 points by the end of the third quarter marking period in their senior year, which shall be awarded on<br />
the following scale:<br />
1 Point - each time a student makes the Honor Roll<br />
2 Points - each time a student makes <strong>High</strong> Honors<br />
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GRADING<br />
Each teacher will hand out a syllabus at the beginning of each semester that details the teacher’s grading policies and expectations.<br />
Student achievement for all grades 9-12 will be marked as follows:<br />
A 90 - 100 Superior<br />
B 80 - 89 Commendable<br />
C 70 - 79 Average<br />
D 60 - 69 Needs Improvement<br />
F 59 or Below Failure (no credit)<br />
I<br />
Incomplete<br />
Incompletes - All incompletes are to be made up in a timely fashion worked out with each teacher and Guidance Department.<br />
Progress Reports - At the midpoint (4 1/2 weeks) in each marking period, progress reports will be available on-line to the parents<br />
of each student.<br />
Report Cards - Reports to parents on student achievement will be issued every nine weeks. All report cards will be available on-line.<br />
WEB2SCHOOL PARENT PORTAL<br />
<strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> offers parents/guardians access to student information via a Parent Portal. This username and password<br />
protected site offers parents/guardians the following information: Daily and class attendance, student schedule, report card, GPA/QPA and<br />
rank in class, progress reports, transcript information, and class assignment information (information about assignments and daily grades<br />
extracted directly from the teachers’ grade books). All of the information on this site is unofficial. For official information please contact the<br />
Registrar. To access the portal, logon to the PRHS website and click on the Web2<strong>School</strong> logo.<br />
MIDTERM EXAMS<br />
The midterm exam period will be scheduled for the last four days of first semester. The exam session will be a delayed opening schedule<br />
with students taking two tests per day. See the Midterm exam schedule at the beginning of the handbook for times and periods.<br />
All students will take midterm exams during the midterm exam period. Students with an unexcused absence from a midterm exam<br />
will not be allowed to make-up the exam. Students with an excused absence (i.e. Verified by doctor’s note) will make-up the exam<br />
during the next make-up session. Students who are late to a midterm exam will not be allowed into the exam after the first ten minutes<br />
of the exam and will not be allowed to make-up the exam. Students may not be dismissed early from testing and must remain in the<br />
testing room for the entire 100 minute testing period.<br />
Midterm exams will count 10% for half year courses (this is the final exam for those classes). Midterm exams for full year courses<br />
will count for 10% and the final exam will count for 10%. The only exception to this is if the midterm counts 5%, the final exam will<br />
count 15%. Midterm grades will not be counted as part of second quarter grades.<br />
The type of exam (performance, lab, written, oral or combination thereof) will be determined by the teacher(s). Performance type<br />
exams may require more than 100 minutes and time should be provided before and/or after the exam dates.<br />
All books or money for books will be collected by all teachers prior to the exam. A list will be given to the assistant principal of all<br />
students who have not turned in their books or paid for them. This list will be accompanied by a copy of the signed textbook inventory<br />
form that was used to issue the textbook at the beginning of the year or semester. Students will take the test but their grade will be<br />
held until the book or money for the book is returned. Any money collected will be turned into the Assistant Principal’s Secretary<br />
with the name of student, name of book, book number, and amount paid.<br />
FINAL EXAMS<br />
Final exams will be given in all classes. ALL STUDENTS will take final exams. Students with an unexcused absence from a final<br />
exam will not be allowed to make-up the exam. Students with an excused absence (i.e. Verified by doctor’s note) will make-up the<br />
exam during the next make-up session. Students who are late to a final exam will not be allowed into the exam after the first ten<br />
minutes of the exam and will not be allowed to make-up the exam. Students may not be dismissed early from testing and must<br />
remain in the testing room for the entire testing period. Only seniors will be permitted to leave once they have completed their exam.<br />
All books will be collected by all teachers prior to the exam. Any money owed for lost or damaged books will be paid to the Assistant<br />
Principal’s Secretary in the Main Office. A list will be given to the assistant principal of all students who have not turned in their books<br />
or paid for them. This list will be accompanied by a copy of the signed textbook inventory form that was used to issue the textbook<br />
at the beginning of the year or semester. Students will take the test but their grade will be held until the book or money for the book<br />
is returned. Students must resolve all outstanding books or money owed prior to participation in graduation. Any money collected<br />
should be turned in to the assistant principal’s secretary with the name of student, name of book, book number, and amount paid.<br />
CREDIT RECOVERY POLICY<br />
The Credit Recovery Program was instituted to help Freshmen students who have failed a major subject area. Participation in the<br />
program is dependent upon available space and criteria. The purpose of Credit Recovery is to allow students to move forward with<br />
their classmates with the hope that they stay on track with their class while recovering lost credit(s).<br />
Credit Recovery is not available for original credits.<br />
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Priority criteria for placement in the Credit Recovery Program are as follows:<br />
1) Sophomores who have multiple failures in major subject areas in their Freshmen year<br />
2) Sophomores who have failed a class in a major subject area in their Freshmen year<br />
3) Seniors who, because of a failed class are a credit short for graduation<br />
Final decision on placement in the Credit Recovery Program will rest with the Administration.<br />
Students who successfully complete the Credit Recovery Program will receive credit in the failed subject and their transcript will<br />
reflect both their original grade and a P for passing grade in Credit Recovery.<br />
GRADUATION HONORS POLICY<br />
To qualify for the top three senior graduation honor positions (valedictorian, salutatorian, and third honor) students must be enrolled<br />
as full-time “standard” program students at <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> for a minimum of seven quarters. Excluded from honors<br />
are students identified as PBA, non-traditional, placed, vocational sending, home school, exchange program, tutorial or students<br />
who have not been at PRHS for at least seven quarters.<br />
For purposes of calculating class rank and grade point average, the formula is the numerical grade for a class multiplied by the potential<br />
credits for the class divided by the total potential credits. Students who transfer to PRHS will have their transfer grades used in the<br />
calculation of grade point average and class rank.<br />
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS<br />
A minimum of six credits must be earned each year (seniors may carry 5 ½ credits), and the number of credits required for graduation<br />
will be 24.<br />
Students should choose the most challenging courses possible, and should choose electives from a variety of departments. A<br />
balanced distribution of courses from a variety of departments is recommended. The required courses are as follows:<br />
Subject in Which Credits<br />
Number of Credits Must be Earned<br />
4 English<br />
3 Mathematics*<br />
3 (1 Phys/1 Bio) Science*****<br />
1 United States History<br />
1 Physical Education<br />
1/2 Earth & Space Science<br />
1/2 Geography<br />
1/2 Civics/NH History<br />
1/2 Economics**<br />
1/2 The Arts ***<br />
1/2 Wellness<br />
P<br />
Information &<br />
Communications Tech.****<br />
1/2 Freshman Seminar<br />
Remaining Req. Credits Electives<br />
* The third mathematics course credit may be earned by taking Intro and Advanced Java; C++ Programming; Drafting; or<br />
Marketing III.<br />
** This requirement may be met through Economics and Marketing Education.<br />
*** This requirement may be met through Art I, Intro to Art, Computer Graphic Design, Intro to Theatre, Band, Chorus, Acting I,<br />
Tech Theatre I, Digital Photography, Web Design and Development or Introduction to Dramatic Literature.<br />
**** This requirement consists of the creation of a digital portfolio. Students must successfully complete the digital portfolio during<br />
senior year to graduate.<br />
***** This requirement may be met through any science elective including Power and Energy I and Power and Energy II.<br />
Any student who fails a course that is necessary for graduation may be required by the Administration to repeat such course work<br />
in a certified summer or evening program.<br />
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EARNED TIME POLICY<br />
Earned time is computed each quarter based on the average of quarter grades.<br />
Students eligible for Earned Time will be issued an Earned Time card within the first five days after report cards are complete.<br />
Parents not wanting students to receive Earned Time privileges will need to submit such a request in writing to the Assistant Principal.<br />
1. A student must be enrolled in at least six credits (or their equivalent) (seniors 5 ½) per year in order to be eligible for Earned Time.<br />
2. All seniors with an average mark for the preceding quarter of 85 or above and no grades lower than a “70” and no incomplete<br />
grades will be eligible for Earned Time.<br />
3. All juniors with an average mark for the preceding quarter of 90 or above and no grades lower than a “70” and no incomplete<br />
grades will be eligible for Earned Time.<br />
4. All sophomores with an average mark for the preceding quarter of 93 or above and no grades lower than a “70” and no incomplete<br />
grades will be eligible for Earned Time.<br />
5. Earned Time does not start until Monday of the second week of school.<br />
6. The determination of eligibility for first quarter Earned Time is based upon the fourth quarter grades from the previous school year.<br />
7. An incomplete grade means loss of Earned Time until made up (within two weeks after issuance of report cards).<br />
8. If a student withdraws from a class with a failing grade, he or she will automatically lose Earned Time and will not be eligible for<br />
Earned Time the following quarter.<br />
9. If the Earned Time privilege is withdrawn, the student may petition, in writing, for reinstatement and is entitled to a hearing with<br />
the Administration.<br />
10. A teacher has the right to petition for the removal of any student from Earned Time. Such a petition will result in a hearing between<br />
the teacher, student, and Administration.<br />
11. If a student receives a Friday ISS, OSS, or Administrative Detention for anything other than tardy to school, his or her Earned<br />
Time privileges will be revoked for a period of time to be determined by the Assistant Principal.<br />
12. Students on Earned Time who do not have a first period class must sign in at the office upon entering the building. Students<br />
arriving after 8:15 a.m. will be considered tardy to school. Failure to sign in may result in loss of earned time.<br />
13. Students on Earned Time are to remain on the school grounds until their courses for the day are completed. If students on<br />
Earned Time MUST leave the school grounds during their free periods, they may do so ONLY with Administrative permission.<br />
14. Students on Earned Time cannot go to the parking lot or drive a vehicle during school time unless permission has been given<br />
by an Administrator.<br />
15. Students on Earned Time must attend all class meetings and all assemblies called by the Principal.<br />
16. Students on Earned Time are to remain in the Main Lobby, Library, and Cafeteria. Earned Time students found in the hallways<br />
while classes are in session or in other areas of school grounds identified as off-limits may lose their Earned Time.<br />
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STUDENT ACTIVITIES<br />
ATHLETICS & CO-CURRICULAR PARTICIPANT AGREEMENT<br />
“I, ______________, have chosen to participate in __________________, at <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>. I commit myself to<br />
continuously working toward the goal of top physical fitness. To do anything which would harm my body would not be in my best<br />
interest or the best interest of my activity and school. I agree to remain free from tobacco, alcohol, and other drugs during the entire<br />
school year. I fully understand this pledge extends to seven days per week. If I have a problem or need help fulfilling this contract, I<br />
understand that the coaches, advisors and the school’s social worker and school counselors will be available to help me. I have read<br />
and understand the co-curricular policies and consequences for violations of these policies. I pledge to keep all rules and policies<br />
and to help all of my teammates and classmates abide by the same co-curricular rules and policies.<br />
________________________________<br />
Student Signature<br />
________________<br />
Date<br />
“As the parent/guardian of ______________________, I understand and support this contract and pledge that my son/daughter has<br />
signed. Optimum health is the goal of our co-curricular programs and I support the school system in its efforts to attain this goal.”<br />
______________________________<br />
Parent/Guardian Signature<br />
_________________<br />
Date<br />
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CAPTAINS, CLASS & CLUB OFFICERS POLICY<br />
They are team leaders. While athletes and club members assume additional responsibilities by choosing to be a part of a team or<br />
club, so do captains, class and club officers when they choose to accept this position of leadership. The additional responsibilities<br />
that pertain to team captains, class and club officers are:<br />
A. To actively encourage sportsmanship (through one’s own behavior and actions) and actively discourage unsportsmanlike conduct.<br />
They are expected to be a liaison between their coach/advisor and other players or club members.<br />
B. To model and promote appropriate conduct in and out of school – to include support of and adherence to school policies governing<br />
athletics and co-curricular activities. Captains, class or club officers who violate school policies, other than drug and alcohol, will meet<br />
with the Principal, Assistant Principal and Director of Athletics, and may be removed from their role as captain, class or club officer.<br />
CAPTAINS, CLASS & CLUB OFFICER’S CODE OF CONDUCT<br />
1. They will model appropriate behavior and interactions with officials, coaches/advisors, and other players or club members.<br />
2. They will encourage appropriate behavior and interactions from their team or club members.<br />
3. They will abide by and uphold all school policies as detailed in the Student Handbook.<br />
In addition to the consequences of the drug and alcohol policy, a captain, class or club officer who is found to be in violation of the<br />
school’s substance use policy will be subject to immediate loss of their title for that season.<br />
CLASS DUES<br />
Class Dues are $5.00 each year for all students at PRHS. Class dues help fund senior activities (such as the Prom). When you pay<br />
your annual $5.00 class dues you will receive your school photo I.D card.<br />
<strong>School</strong> photo identification cards will be available in the fall in the Principal’s Office. Photos for these I.D. cards are taken on the day<br />
of school portraits, so be sure to have your photo taken, at no charge, even if you choose not to purchase school pictures. These<br />
I.D. cards will admit students free of charge to all home interscholastic athletic events (except for tournament games), are needed as<br />
a photo identification card for obtaining your driver’s license and are helpful in obtaining your passport. Please go to the Principal’s<br />
office to pay your class dues and receive your school I.D. card.<br />
An adult Booster Card is available for $20 in the Athletic Director’s Office. This card will admit adults free of charge to all home<br />
interscholastic athletic events.<br />
CO-CURRICULAR ORGANIZATIONS<br />
The following organizations are a part of student activities at PRHS:<br />
Band & Music Literary Magazine Student Government<br />
Community of Caring National Honor Society Theatre<br />
Dance Club National Technical Honor Society Winter Carnival<br />
DECA OSSIPEE Yearbook<br />
Granite State Challenge<br />
Outing Club<br />
HOSA<br />
Pep Band<br />
Ice Hockey Club<br />
Students for Diversity<br />
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES<br />
Students participating in any co-curricular activity must have received a passing grade in at least four full-term courses during the<br />
previous marking period. Advisors for each activity will be responsible for monitoring their own members to see that they meet this<br />
standard.<br />
FUND RAISING<br />
All fund-raising activities must be approved by the Assistant Principal. All moneys collected and/or expended must be processed<br />
through the Principal’s office. No activities involving house-to-house or business solicitations will be allowed unless approved in<br />
advance by the Pemi-Baker Cooperative <strong>School</strong> Board.<br />
INITIATION OF ACTIVITIES<br />
If any group of students wishes to undertake an activity, they should contact the Assistant Principal who will coordinate with Student<br />
Council. Student Council will help the interested persons understand the process of starting a new activity and go through all the<br />
necessary details (transportation, timetable, advisors, and perhaps, money) if the proposal seems feasible. To initiate an activity,<br />
follow these steps:<br />
1. Plan event<br />
2. Fill out a blue activity form<br />
3. Turn the blue activity form into the Assistant Principal’s Secretary one month prior to the event.<br />
4. Within two weeks, the blue activity form will be returned with an approval or denial for the stated activity.<br />
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INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETICS<br />
Boys: Cross-Country, Soccer, Football, Skiing, Basketball, Baseball, Track and Field, Tennis, Golf, Wrestling, Lacrosse.<br />
Girls: Volleyball, Cross Country, Field Hockey, Soccer, Golf, Cheerleading, Skiing, Basketball, Softball, Track and Field, Tennis, Lacrosse.<br />
INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETICS ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS<br />
The following eligibility requirements are set forth by the New Hampshire Interscholastic Athletic Association (N.H.I.A.A.) for all high<br />
schools in the State of New Hampshire for students participating in interscholastic sports:<br />
You are not eligible if:<br />
1. You have not successfully passed a physical examination by a doctor at the beginning of your high school career. (In addition, the<br />
Pemi-Baker <strong>School</strong> District will require an annual Health Screening Form prior to participation in your first sport in any academic year).<br />
2. You are nineteen years of age prior to September 1.<br />
3. You have been in high school for more than eight semesters beyond the eighth grade.<br />
4. You did not pass the equivalent of four units of work during the last marking period. A unit is a course that meets every other<br />
day for 90 minutes.<br />
5. You have changed schools this semester (except by change of residence of your parents).<br />
6. You are a post-graduate.<br />
7. You, at any time, received financial remuneration for your participation in any athletic activity.<br />
8. After being a certified member of your high school’s team, you have competed on a team other than your school team.<br />
JUNIOR/SENIOR PROM PARTICIPATION CONTRACT<br />
“I, ______________, have chosen to participate in <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>’s Junior/Senior Prom. To do anything which<br />
could potentially harm my body or cause harm to someone else would be irresponsible of me. I agree to remain free from alcohol<br />
and other drugs during the entire Junior/Senior Prom Weekend. I fully understand this pledge extends to pre-Prom activities, the<br />
Prom and post-Prom activities. If I have a problem or need help fulfilling this contract, I understand that the school’s social worker<br />
and school counselors will be available to help me. The consequences for violation of this contract are as follows:<br />
• If I am a senior, I will not be allowed to participate in the Graduation Ceremony<br />
• If I am a junior, sophomore or freshman I will not be allowed to participate in next years’ Junior/Senior Prom.<br />
I also understand that the above consequences do not preclude the administration from taking further disciplinary action in accordance<br />
with the rules and regulations as outlined in the Student Handbook. I pledge to abide by all rules and policies and to help all of my<br />
classmates abide by the same rules and policies.<br />
________________________________<br />
Student Signature<br />
________________<br />
Date<br />
“As the parent/guardian of ______________________, I understand and support this contract and pledge that my son/daughter<br />
has signed. Student health and safety is the goal of our program and I support the school system in its efforts to attain this goal.”<br />
______________________________<br />
Parent/Guardian Signature<br />
_________________<br />
Date<br />
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POSTERS<br />
Posters must be initialed by the faculty advisor and approved by the Assistant Principal. They may be posted on hall bulletin boards<br />
or hall walls unless it will result in property damage.<br />
REQUEST TO ATTEND A SCHOOL FUNCTION<br />
All <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> students who plan to invite a guest at an event must complete our Request to Attend a <strong>School</strong><br />
Function form available on our website or in the main office prior to being in attendance. The completed form must be submitted<br />
5 school days prior to the date of the event. There will be no exceptions to this policy which requires signatures from the visitor,<br />
host and their respective parents or guardians.<br />
In addition to this form, the visitor must present a photo ID card upon arrival at the <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> event. The<br />
<strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> student is responsible for informing his or her guest that the PRHS Code of Conduct applies to all<br />
students in attendance at the school or school event.<br />
SCIENCE STUDENT SAFETY CONTRACT<br />
Science is a hands-on laboratory class with activities which require the use of hazardous chemicals and materials. Safety in the<br />
science classroom is the #1 priority for students, teachers, and parents. To ensure a safe science classroom, a list of rules has been<br />
developed and will be provided to you by your science teacher. These rules must be followed at all times. A copy must be signed<br />
both by you and by a parent or guardian and returned to your teacher before you can participate in the laboratory. Violations of the<br />
safety contract that result in unsafe conduct in the laboratory or misbehavior will result in appropriate disciplinary action.<br />
SPORTSMANSHIP<br />
Respect is a central theme to our school culture and climate. Good sportsmanship is an important aspect of this theme. Students,<br />
parents, and fans of <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> are expected to accord other teams and their parents and fans the utmost<br />
respect and courtesy. <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> is committed to the philosophy of sportsmanship from the players and fans,<br />
positive cheering only, and respect for the officials working the game.<br />
STARTING A CLUB<br />
If any group of students wishes to establish a club, they should contact the Assistant Principal who will work with the group on the<br />
necessary process.<br />
YEARBOOK<br />
A. Purpose - The purpose of the PRHS yearbook is to entertain, inform, reflect, and provide a historical record of the school year.<br />
Coverage will include daily life, people, sports, academics, clubs, special events, ads, and national news.<br />
B. Publication - <strong>School</strong> sponsored student publications must be authorized by the administration. Publications must reflect the<br />
dignity and well being of the students, faculty and staff. Pictures and literature that promote, portray or glorify (either directly<br />
or through innuendo) drugs, tobacco, alcohol, vulgarity, guns, gangs, violence or violate the school’s dress code will not be<br />
allowed. All publications will conform to these rules. Any publication not approved by the administration and/or <strong>School</strong> Board<br />
will not be considered a school publication and it shall not be distributed on school property. All school publications will be under<br />
the supervision of the school Principal or his/her designee.<br />
C. Portrait Policy (As adopted by Yearbook Staff) - All students and school personnel must have their portraits taken with the<br />
official school photographer to be included in the current volume of the publication. McGrath Studios is the official photographer<br />
for all senior portraits; Lifetouch Studios is the official photographer for underclassmen and all school ID’s. NO PORTRAITS<br />
FROM OTHER PHOTOGRAPHERS WILL BE ACCEPTED. There is no charge for photos taken for inclusion in the yearbook.<br />
All students and staff will be afforded at least two opportunities to have their photos taken; this includes having photographs<br />
retaken when necessary. By having all portraits taken by the same photographer under the same conditions, the yearbook staff<br />
can be assured of the highest quality reproduction of all photographs serving the best interests of all students. All students who<br />
choose not to have their photos taken or miss both opportunities will be listed in a special section of the book under the title<br />
“Camera Shy” in order to show record of their participation at PRHS.<br />
Portrait standards: Students will dress appropriately for their portrait. No hats, props of any kind, pets, tee shirts with writing or logos<br />
on them, or outdoor photos will be allowed. Portraits that do not meet the above specifications will not be included in the yearbook.<br />
SCHOOL SOCIALS<br />
<strong>School</strong> social requests are to be made through the Assistant Principal’s Secretary in the Main Office. Requirements for holding a<br />
school social are as follows:<br />
A. REQUIREMENTS FOR HOLDING A SCHOOL SOCIAL ARE AS FOLLOWS:<br />
1. Adequate lighting must be maintained at all times in the areas within the school where socials are taking place.<br />
2. A minimum of five chaperones (teachers or other staff members) must be in attendance at all socials.<br />
3. A minimum of one policeman and one custodian must be present at all school socials and are to be paid by the class or<br />
activity sponsoring the social.<br />
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B. GENERAL RULES<br />
1. The first level of responsibility in regard to supervision at socials rests with the student advisor/organizer.<br />
2. Students may have guests attend a school social provided the guest is signed up on the guest list in the main office by 3:00<br />
p.m. on the day of the social. The student must accompany his/her guest and remain with the guest during the social.<br />
3. No one is allowed to leave a dance and then re-enter, except with the approval of the Administration.<br />
4. The use of alcohol and drugs is prohibited in the school, on the school grounds, and during all school activities.<br />
5. No elementary or junior high students will be allowed into high school socials without the approval of the Principal.<br />
6. Parents and guardians are cordially welcomed to all school socials.<br />
C. JUNIOR/SENIOR PROM<br />
1. The general rules of attending a school social will apply. The following additional rules also apply.<br />
a. Seniors must pay their class dues prior to purchasing tickets in the Principal’s office.<br />
b. Students bringing a guest must register and pay for his/her guest when they purchase their tickets with the Administrative<br />
Assistant to the Principal.<br />
c. It is the responsibility of the student bringing a guest to ensure his/her guest complies with all rules and regulations of<br />
PRHS.<br />
d. Students must arrive at the prom no later than 7:00 p.m. In the event of unforeseen circumstances that cause a student<br />
to arrive later, the student must call the Principal prior to 7:00 p.m.<br />
e. All PRHS students attending the prom must not be absent the day prior to the prom and will attend a mandatory meeting<br />
held before the prom.<br />
f. All students attending the prom must comply with the rules for attending extra-curricular activities<br />
NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY<br />
The National Honor Society embraces high standards of scholarship, service, leadership, and character, as specified by their national<br />
by-laws. Selection for the National Honor Society will take place twice during the school year for seniors (beginning of first quarter<br />
and end of second quarter) and once for juniors (end of second quarter only). In order to be eligible for selection, the candidate<br />
must have at least an 88 GPA. Candidates will then be invited by the Principal and the NHS Advisor to submit an application. The<br />
application must be completed and returned to the NHS Advisor by the indicated deadline.<br />
The Faculty Council will then review the applications and the input of the entire faculty to determine if the candidate meets the<br />
standards of the Society. The Faculty Council will make their recommendations to the Principal, through the NHS Advisor. The NHS<br />
Advisor forwards these recommendations to the Principal. The Principal and NHS Advisor will then notify the candidates of the<br />
decision in a timely fashion. A formal induction ceremony and reception will be held in the spring for all inductees. Membership in<br />
the National Honor Society is an honor, a privilege, and a responsibility.<br />
Once selected into the NHS, a member must maintain the characteristics of service, leadership, scholarship, and character, including<br />
20 hours of service during a school year beyond that which won his/her selection. This maintaining of a member’s selection is also<br />
contingent on his/her attendance at all mandatory membership meetings as well as mandatory service projects, including, but not<br />
limited to the annual Induction Ceremony. A great deal is expected from an Honor Society member, and membership should not be<br />
taken lightly. For copies of the Chapter By-Laws, Responsibilities of Members, Rules of Conduct and Discipline Procedures, please<br />
see the National Honor Society Advisor.<br />
NATIONAL TECHNICAL HONOR SOCIETY<br />
The National Technical Honor Society embraces high standards of scholarship, service, leadership, and character, as specified<br />
by their national by-laws. Selection for the National Technical Honor Society will take place after the first semester. In order to be<br />
eligible for selection, the candidate must be a junior or senior and have at least an 85 GPA and the support of the faculty. Once a<br />
candidate has received the support of the faculty, he/she will be invited to submit an application by the Applied Technology Director.<br />
The application must be completed and returned to the NTHS Advisor by the indicated deadline.<br />
The Faculty Council will then review the applications to determine if the candidate meets the standards of the Society, and they will<br />
forward their recommendations to the Principal. The Principal and advisor will then notify the candidates of the Council’s decision in<br />
a timely fashion. A formal induction ceremony and reception will be held in the spring for all inductees. Membership in the National<br />
Technical Honor Society is an honor, a privilege, and a responsibility.<br />
Once selected into the Society, a member must maintain the characteristics of service, leadership, scholarship, and character which won<br />
his/her selection. A great deal is expected from an Honor Society member, and membership should not be taken lightly. For copies of the<br />
Chapter By-Laws, Responsibilities of Members, and Discipline Procedures, please see your National Technical Honor Society advisor.<br />
STUDENT GOVERNMENT<br />
Student Government at PRHS is a co-curricular activity whose goal is to provide students with the opportunity to acquire the skills<br />
necessary to be a responsible and productive citizen within a democratic society. The focus of Student Government activities will<br />
be on empowering students to take control of their lives while contributing to the betterment of fellow citizens.<br />
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The name Student Government is meant to be inclusive of all activities that offer students firsthand experience involving government<br />
at the <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>, local, state, and national levels.<br />
The objectives of Student Government include activities that promote school spirit and pride, the development of leadership skills,<br />
and participation in the governing of the high school. Participation will be promoted through the creation of joint committees between<br />
students, school board, and the administration.<br />
1. Elections – Student Government Senators and Class Officers shall be elected during the May advisory for 10th, 11th, and 12th<br />
grade positions. Ninth grade positions will be elected on the fourth Tuesday of September. The entire student body will be invited<br />
to vote via appropriate ballots, which will be available at the polls. All elected Senators and class officers will serve a one (1)<br />
year term from the time of election.<br />
2. Student Government Senators (four per class – 16 representatives). These elected Senators will be responsible for organizing,<br />
promoting, and implementing Student Government activities, programs, and committees.<br />
3. Student <strong>School</strong> Board Representatives (two representatives). Two members of the Student Government will be selected to<br />
represent the student body at all school board meetings. The representatives will be responsible for briefing all elected officials<br />
on <strong>School</strong> Board activities and will present student body concerns to the <strong>School</strong> Board as needed.<br />
4. Class Officers, Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 (four per class – 16 officers). Each class will elect a President, Vice-President, Communications<br />
Coordinator, and Secretary who will tend to class activities and interests in conjunction with each Head Class Advisor. These<br />
elected officials are expected to attend all Student Government meetings in order to brief the Student Government as to class<br />
activities and concerns.<br />
5. Student Government Executives (four executives). A President, Vice-President, Treasurer, and Secretary will be elected exclusively<br />
by members of Student Government. The executives will manage and administrate Student Government agenda via proper<br />
parliamentary procedure. The elections will take place on the second Tuesday of May.<br />
Eligibility<br />
To be eligible to run for an executive or officer position, students must have an overall “70” average, have no in-school or out-of-school<br />
suspensions on their record, and have no academic honesty issues (i.e. plagiarism or cheating) on their record. Once elected,<br />
Student Government Senators and Executives must maintain an overall “70” average or they will be removed from office. If a Student<br />
Government Senator or Executive receives an in-school or out-of-school suspension, or violates a school policy, a meeting will be<br />
held with the Administration and the Student Government Advisors to decide if the student should remain in office. Vacancies due<br />
to removal or resignation shall be filled by special election. Students removed from office may not run for office again during the<br />
remainder of the academic year.<br />
SCHOOL SERVICES<br />
ANNOUNCEMENTS<br />
Announcements are distributed daily to teachers via email, and are read to students at the beginning of school over the intercom.<br />
ASSEMBLIES<br />
Assemblies are held periodically during the school year. Advance notice of the program is normally given. Attendance at assemblies<br />
is mandatory. This includes students who are on Earned Time. Students are to be courteous and polite to the performers or persons<br />
involved in the program and helpful to any guests who may be attending. Talking and fooling around is considered extremely rude.<br />
Students who cannot behave during the program will stand the chance of not being able to attend future assembly programs or<br />
face other disciplinary actions.<br />
Classes will pass to the assembly at intervals beginning with the North Wing. Teachers will sit with the class they are assigned to<br />
as an advisor so they can monitor behavior and insure safety for all attending the assembly program.<br />
EATING FACILITIES<br />
The cafeteria serves as a multiple-use facility, but its primary function is providing a place to eat. It also provides a place to relax<br />
and enjoy a fellow student’s company. It has been the policy at <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> to maintain a relaxed and informal<br />
atmosphere. However, a few common sense rules must be followed for everyone’s health and safety. Any abuse of the lunch facilities<br />
could result in the removal of lunch privileges.<br />
1. Do not sit on tables<br />
2. Do not throw food<br />
3. Pick up or clean up anything you drop or spill<br />
A wide variety of healthy, nutritious foods are available during scheduled breakfast, break and lunch times. Many low- and fat-free<br />
items are available: fresh fruit and vegetables, deli sandwiches, and snacks.<br />
Free and reduced price meal applications can be obtained from the Main Office at anytime throughout the school year.<br />
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HEALTH & CLINICAL SERVICES<br />
The Health and Clinical Services Department is a collaborative team that consists of the Psychologist, <strong>School</strong> Social Worker and <strong>School</strong><br />
Nurse. This department provides a full range of school based mental health and health services. All department members provide<br />
supportive counseling to students and consultation to staff and parents as well as in-service training. In addition, each department<br />
specializes in a particular area. Any member of the school community may make referrals to any member of the team. Students<br />
may self-refer or refer other students. The department meets weekly and welcomes participation from any interested staff member.<br />
Psychologist – The Psychologist conducts individual, group, and family psychotherapy; psycho-diagnostic and psycho-educational<br />
testing; risk assessment; crisis counseling; behavioral consultation; and parent training and consultation. Along with consultation to<br />
staff members, physicians, community, mental health providers, law enforcement agencies and the courts, clinical and administrative<br />
supervision of the team, coordination of the Crisis Assistance Team, provides in-service training and classroom seminars on topics<br />
related to psychological services. In addition, the Psychologist serves on the Administrative Team as well as the Special Education<br />
Team and is assigned specific duties by these respective teams.<br />
<strong>School</strong> Nurse – enhances educational process by:<br />
1. The modification or removal of health related barriers to learning<br />
2. The promotion of an optimal level of wellness and open communication between parents, students, administrators, faculty<br />
members and medical personnel for optimal wellness<br />
3. Facilitating health programs<br />
4. Monitoring environmental safety issues within the school building and school grounds<br />
5. Assisting students to return to classes as quickly as possible<br />
6. Enforcing and adhering to all New Hampshire Division of Public Health codes and laws<br />
<strong>School</strong> Social Worker – The <strong>School</strong> Social Worker’s primary purpose is to facilitate and support family and community involvement<br />
designed to optimize a student’s social, emotional, behavioral, and academic functioning. Bringing together youth and family service<br />
agencies with the school into a coordinated and collaborative network creates a system of care that enhances youth and family<br />
strengths. This produces improved outcomes in all areas. Youth and family service entities include Mental Health Agencies, Public<br />
Health, the Division for Children, Youth and Families; Division of Juvenile Justice Services; and any social services agencies as well<br />
as the natural resources of the family and youth.<br />
The Social Worker also assists families in understanding and accessing appropriate school based services. The Social Worker is<br />
available to all students and families. Appropriate referrals include families or youth in crisis, individual students who are at risk due<br />
to suicidal thoughts, depression, and inability to function in school or other interpersonal and social difficulties. The Social Worker<br />
will make recommendations and/or referrals to other agencies as needed, serving as a liaison.<br />
The Social Worker assists the Assistant Principal in harassment issues and resolving in-school disputes. The Social Worker is<br />
available to provide social, emotional and communication skills education to students.<br />
LIBRARY<br />
The PRHS Library is open Monday through Thursday 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Fridays 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.<br />
The Library provides a wide variety of resources to support the learning and research needs of the students and teachers. Materials<br />
include fiction and nonfiction books, Kindles, graphic novels, general and specialized reference sources, audio books, periodicals,<br />
videos, and networked computers with a variety of programs. In addition to current magazines and newspapers, periodical sources<br />
also include access to on-line subscription services. The library’s collections can be searched online.<br />
The Library subscribes to a selection of online databases that are available via the Internet. These databases provide access to<br />
published material from journals, magazines, newspapers, encyclopedias, dictionaries, and other reference sources. These services<br />
are available for all PRHS students. See the library staff for username and password information to access these resources.<br />
There is additional information about the library on the library’s website http://www.prhslibrary.com.<br />
The Library provides a relaxed environment for study, research, and reading. The library staff is always available to assist students<br />
with using and finding information. Students are encouraged to request materials, ask questions, and seek advice for their assignment<br />
and research needs.<br />
Listening/viewing areas provide access to news, weather, and cable channels and allow students to view videos for research or<br />
class assignments. Equipment is available for making photocopies, transparencies, laminating materials, listening to podcasts<br />
and audio books, and scanning images and documents. Students may borrow a variety of digital media resources (such as digital<br />
cameras) for a week at a time.<br />
During the school day, students in study hall must have a library pass to use the Library, while Earned Time students may use<br />
the facility without passes during their free time. Passes are not needed before or after school or between periods. Students are<br />
expected to behave responsibly and show respect for each other, for the resources and the facility of the Library. Students who<br />
infringe on the rights of others to work in an appropriate environment may be asked to leave. Additional incidents will be handled<br />
by the administration and may result in the loss of library privileges. <strong>School</strong> rules as outlined in this handbook also apply to Library<br />
use (computer acceptable use policy, no cell phones, no hats in the classroom, etc.)<br />
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Most non-electronic resources may be borrowed for a three-week period or overnight. All materials must be checked out and must<br />
be returned promptly by the due date. Students are responsible for any materials checked out and will be charged for lost, missing,<br />
not returned or damaged items.<br />
LOCKERS AND VALUABLES<br />
Each student will be assigned a locker. Lockers must be kept neat and orderly: books and clothes are not to be just thrown in, but<br />
placed on the shelf and hung on the hook.<br />
Under the Constitution, all citizens are protected from unreasonable searches and seizures; however, this does not mean that you are<br />
legally protected from search and seizure of any materials in your locker, which is school property. <strong>School</strong> officials reserve the right<br />
to periodically inspect all lockers for reasons of health, safety, and recovery of school-owned items which should not be in lockers.<br />
Individual lockers may also be searched by school officials if there is reason to believe that there are illegal or harmful materials in<br />
the locker. Writing and/or stickers in or on the lockers is not permitted.<br />
Everything must be removed from lockers, locker walls, locker rooms or any place in the building at the end of school.<br />
The school is not responsible for money or valuables left in lockers; these items should be brought to the office for safekeeping.<br />
LOST AND FOUND<br />
Coats, sweaters, books and other articles found outside or left in a room or on a desk will be turned in to the office. Students may<br />
claim their lost articles by identifying them to the school receptionist.<br />
PARKING REGULATIONS<br />
Applications for parking are available from the main office and are subject to Administrative approval. Students who are given<br />
Administrative permission to bring a registered vehicle onto school grounds during the school day shall abide by the following:<br />
1. Vehicles must be registered each school year. Registration forms must be validated by a parent’s signature for all students under<br />
eighteen years of age.<br />
2. Parking passes are awarded to seniors first, juniors second, and sophomores, if available and determined by the administration.<br />
3. Students parking at school without a valid permit may receive a Friday detention, and their vehicles may be towed at the owners’<br />
expense at any time and without prior notice.<br />
4. Vehicles must be parked in the area designated by the administration.<br />
5. Speeding or careless driving will result in the parking privilege being suspended.<br />
6. Vehicles must be locked throughout the day.<br />
7. Vehicles are parked at the owner’s risk. PRHS assumes no liability for theft or damage by vandalism.<br />
8. Vehicles may not be left overnight for any reason.<br />
9. Vehicles are not to be entered during the school day except when authorization is given by the administration.<br />
10. This permit is non-transferable. Students found giving their permit to another student will lose their parking privilege.<br />
11. DO NOT bring your car if you DO NOT have your permit. NO EXCEPTIONS.<br />
SCHOOL INSURANCE<br />
Each student is eligible to be covered by insurance for accidents and mishaps that occur during the school year. An insurance<br />
packet will be mailed home to each student at the beginning of the school year. This packet is for parents to fill out. Parents are to<br />
fill out the form whether or not they wish to take the insurance. These packets are to be returned to the school within five days. If a<br />
parent decides to enroll the student after the beginning of the school year, he/she must do so directly with the insurance company.<br />
SCHOOL STORE<br />
The Cats Corner <strong>School</strong> Store is located in the south end of the Career-Technical Center on the second floor. The store is operated<br />
by the students in the Marketing Education classes. Products offered for sale include beverages, snacks, baked goods as well as<br />
a variety of school-related supplies, clothing and gear bags. Cats Corner is also open during all varsity and junior varsity athletic<br />
events during the winter sports season. Students may purchase products from the Cats Corner during the day during regular store<br />
hours. Regular daily hours are as follows: block one - 8:40-9:10 a.m.; block two 10:20-10:40 a.m.; Closed block three; and open<br />
block four 1:50-2:15 p.m.<br />
SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES<br />
Special Education services are available to students identified under Public Law 94-142. These services include, but are not limited to,<br />
individual diagnostic assessments by a team of specialists; remediation in Reading, Mathematics and Written Expression; academic<br />
assistance through classroom-based services, career assessment and exploration aimed at transitioning students with disabilities<br />
to meaningful careers; and pre-vocational skills and counseling. It is the intent of Special Services to provide assistance to students<br />
in gaining and maintaining academic, emotional, social, and vocational successes so that they may function as productive and<br />
independent members of society.<br />
Special Education professionals seek to work closely with parents, teachers, Guidance, Administration, and Health Services, to<br />
insure the development of an appropriate educational plan for each student.<br />
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STUDENT DRIVERS<br />
Parking passes are awarded to seniors first, juniors second, and sophomores, if available and determined by the administration.<br />
STUDY HALLS<br />
A student excused from study hall to go to any place should be given a pass and sign out, recording his/her name, destination, and<br />
time of leaving and returning. No more than two students at a time should leave the study hall for areas other than the Library. Study<br />
halls are to be quiet, so that the students can concentrate on studying.<br />
TELEPHONE<br />
The telephone is to be used only if on Earned Time, or during break, lunch, after school, in an emergency, or with permission from<br />
their teacher. The phone in the office will only be available for student use before and after school.<br />
TEXTS<br />
Students are responsible for all school or classroom materials which are assigned to them or which they have occasion to use – this<br />
includes such things as textbooks, calculators, electronic equipment, library materials, computer materials, etc. Students are expected<br />
to treat all school materials properly, as any materials that are unreasonably damaged or lost will have to be paid for at full current<br />
replacement cost. All textbooks must be covered. Credit for any courses will be held until all items have been turned in or paid for.<br />
Student records will not be sent to any schools for students transferring until all items are returned or paid for. Students no longer<br />
attending school will be subject to a petition to small claims court to recover costs of books, materials and equipment not turned in or<br />
paid for. Students will not be issued any additional books or materials in any course until all outstanding books are returned or paid for.<br />
TRANSPORTATION TO AND FROM SCHOOL ACTIVITIES<br />
Students participating in school activities which require transportation are expected to utilize the transportation provided by the school.<br />
Students may not drive private vehicles to school-sponsored events such as athletic contests, field trips, and meetings. Parents<br />
may transport their own children with prior permission of the Director of Athletics. In such cases, no students outside the immediate<br />
family are to be transported in either direction. Any student who accepts other than school transportation to or from a school event<br />
without proper permission is subject to immediate suspension from further participation in any school activities (other than normal<br />
class attendance) for a period of five weeks, or for the remainder of the marking period, whichever is longer. When signing up for<br />
school transportation, a student must ride both ways with that transportation unless Administrative permission is granted in advance.<br />
VISITORS<br />
Parents or others are welcome to visit the school. Please call beforehand so that the school can be certain that what you want to see<br />
is occurring on the day you plan to visit. Parents or others are not permitted to observe and evaluate teachers or classroom instruction<br />
and may not attend classes with the students. Parents or others may have a tour of the building accompanied by an administrator.<br />
If in the sole opinion of the administrator accompanying parents or visitors no confidentiality would be breached, classrooms may<br />
be briefly viewed. Exceptions to the policy are made by the administration for student teachers, methods students, interns, other<br />
teachers for professional development, and consultants hired by the district.<br />
All visitors need to sign in and out at the office and display the visitor pass while in the building.<br />
Relatives and out-of-town friends of students are not allowed to attend school with the student. There are exceptions, however, and<br />
each case will be considered individually by the Administration as long as requests are made in advance. Out-of-town friends of<br />
students will need the permission of their school to visit <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>.<br />
Local friends and former graduates will not be allowed to visit the school when classes are in session. Those who wish to visit<br />
teachers may do so only after school and must check in at the main office.<br />
WORKING PAPERS<br />
The procedures below must be followed when the need for a working paper arises:<br />
1. Get the forms, “Employer’s Request for Child Labor”, and “Verification of Adequate health of Child” from the employer or the<br />
main office.<br />
2. Take the form to the prospective employer for his/her signature and a description of proposed employment.<br />
3. Return the completed form from the employer to the Assistant Principal’s Secretary during the school year or the <strong>SAU</strong> office<br />
during the summer to be processed.<br />
4. The certificate will be ready to be picked up on the following day. The student whose name appears on the request must be<br />
present to sign the certificate at the time of pickup.<br />
Notes Regarding Working Papers:<br />
1. The Youth Employment Certificate may be revoked if the minor fails to maintain a satisfactory level of academic performance.<br />
If revocation occurs, the student, parent, and the New Hampshire State Department of Labor must be notified within <strong>48</strong> hours.<br />
2. Please call the high school for information on obtaining working papers.<br />
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DISCIPLINE PROCEDURES<br />
STUDENT BEHAVIOR<br />
The philosophy of “freedom with responsibility” means that students are to take full responsibility for their own actions.<br />
ACADEMIC CHEATING AND PLAGIARISM<br />
A student found to have cheated/plagiarized is to receive no credit for the assignment/test at issue. Parent(s), guidance counselors<br />
and the Assistant Principal are to be notified by the teacher of the first offense and a conference will be scheduled. Second (repeated)<br />
offenses are to be referred to the Assistant Principal by the teacher/counselor for further action. No credit will be awarded for any<br />
work completed through cheating or plagiarism.<br />
Cheating is defined as presenting someone else’s ideas, words or information as one’s own or giving unauthorized assistance to<br />
someone else’s work. Unless authorized by a teacher, the following examples are considered cheating: using unauthorized cheat<br />
sheets, looking at someone’s paper, having someone else write a paper, copying homework, giving or receiving answers, allowing<br />
someone to copy work, tests, etc. and presenting information as one’s own without giving credit to one’s source.<br />
POLICY ON THE USE OF PERSONAL CELL PHONES, PAGERS, ELECTRONIC DEVICES, AND LASERS AT PRHS<br />
The <strong>School</strong> Board of the Pemi-Baker <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>School</strong> District wishes to promote a school environment in which learning will flourish.<br />
It is a policy of the <strong>School</strong> Board that any use of personal electronic devices such as an I-Pod, personal CD players, cell phones<br />
(voice, text, and pictures), or pagers is inconsistent with that environment and therefore, such devices are prohibited. Student cell<br />
phones are not allowed to be on in the building at any time.<br />
Students who are required to be available by cell phone or pager in emergency situations must leave their phone or pager in the<br />
Main Office so that school personnel can contact them immediately in the event of an emergency. Students who have this situation<br />
must meet with the Assistant Principal, coach, or co-curricular advisor to make appropriate arrangements. (Note – if a student is<br />
eighteen and they have signed and submitted a letter to PRHS requesting all correspondence be sent to them, the parent/guardian<br />
will not be called.)<br />
Cell phone and/or other communication device violations of this policy will result in the following discipline cycle: First offense:<br />
confiscation for the rest of the day, an Administrative Detention and the parents/guardians called. Second offense: confiscation for<br />
three days, a Friday in-school suspension, and the parents/guardians called to pick up the device after the three days of confiscation.<br />
Third offense: same as second offense.<br />
Electronic device, laser pens, etc. violations of this policy will result in the following discipline cycle: First offense: warning and<br />
confiscation for the rest of the day. Second offense: an Administrative Detention, and confiscation for the rest of the day. Third<br />
offense: Friday in-school suspension and confiscation for the rest of the day.<br />
Violations of the electronic device/cell phone policy while a student is taking a test or quiz will result in the student receiving<br />
a zero on that test/quiz.<br />
Behavior After <strong>School</strong> Hours: Students are expected to behave appropriately when in the building after school hours. Only students<br />
who have a reason to be here (sports, clubs, rehearsals, classes, etc.) will be allowed in the building after hours. After hours are<br />
identified as after 2:20 p.m.<br />
Behavior at <strong>School</strong> Functions: Any student identified as engaging in behavior that is disruptive, dangerous, or detrimental to the<br />
<strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> community at any athletic, social, or cultural event involving representatives of the school, or on<br />
any bus identified as transporting <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> students, shall forfeit participation in or admittance to such events<br />
for such a length of time to be determined in conference with the Principal, the student, and the parents of the offender. It shall be<br />
within the discretion of the Principal to place a student on probation for the first offense.<br />
Belligerence to Teachers/Staff: Students are expected to accord teachers and other members of the school staff the respect that<br />
their position of authority demands. Swearing, threatening, refusing to follow a teacher directive, or belligerence directed at a teacher<br />
or any other member of the school staff is considered one of the most severe offenses against school policy:<br />
1. First offense – Friday In-<strong>School</strong> Suspension.<br />
2. Second offense - one to five days out-of-school suspension and conference with Principal, Superintendent of <strong>School</strong>s, and<br />
parents. At this time, the student will be removed permanently from the class involved.<br />
3. Third offense - recommendation to the Superintendent for expulsion.<br />
Bicycles and Skateboards: For safety reasons, students are not to ride bicycles or skateboards on school grounds at any time.<br />
Students may use their bicycles or skateboards for transportation to and from school. Once on school property they must walk<br />
their bicycle or skateboard. Bicycles are to be placed in the designated bicycle rack location. Skateboards must be placed in the<br />
students’ locker.<br />
Classroom Behavior Policy: Students are expected to conduct themselves in a respectful and obedient manner in the classroom.<br />
If a student is not performing in a scholastically and behaviorally accountable manner, the following method will be used to deal<br />
with the above described student:<br />
1. Minor offenses will be handled according to the procedures set up by the individual teacher at the beginning of the year.<br />
2. If this fails to remediate the disruptive behavior, then this will always be followed by parental contact by the teacher.<br />
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3. If normal discipline procedures fail to bring about a change and the student continues to disrupt the learning environment in<br />
the classroom, the teacher will request a conference with the student’s parents, Guidance, and the Administration to discuss<br />
what further action should be taken. This could include removal from the class for the remainder of the year.<br />
4. Food or drink will not be allowed in any classroom except in an unusual or extenuating circumstance.<br />
5. Tardy to class will be handled the following way:<br />
a. The first three tardies will be handled by the teacher.<br />
b. After three tardies the teacher will submit a discipline referral slip for each additional tardy to the office and the administration<br />
will take appropriate action to resolve the issue.<br />
Dress Code: The atmosphere of <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> is one in which all people are treated with respect, dignity, and<br />
well-being. Student and staff dress reflects the quality and atmosphere of the school. We take pride in the appearance of the<br />
members of our educational community. Dress should be neat, clean, and appropriate for classes and school activities. Examples<br />
of inappropriate dress include, but are not limited to, the following:<br />
1. Clothing, jewelry, accessories, or tattoos that make reference to alcohol or drug use, sexual activity, gangs or secret societies,<br />
violence, or vulgarity;<br />
2. Tears, shreds, or holes in clothing;<br />
3. Large chains or spikes;<br />
4. Sleepwear (Lingerie or pajamas worn as outer-garments);<br />
5. Non-prescription sunglasses;<br />
6. Shorts or skirts that are more than four inches above the top of the knee;<br />
7. Body-con skirts are not allowed. Leggings, lycra or spandex, and tight yoga pants, if worn, must be covered by another garment<br />
that meets the prior requirement laid out in #6 above;<br />
8. Garments that allow bare midriffs or undergarments to show*. (The front of the shirt or blouse should be no lower than two<br />
inches from the student’s collarbone or nape of the neck);<br />
*Shirts must cover the student’s torso and shoulders. Halter tops, sleeveless shirts, garments with spaghetti straps, and tank<br />
tops are not allowed;<br />
9. Garments that are sheer enough to see through;<br />
10. Clothing with writing in inappropriate places;<br />
11. Any headgear (including hats, hoods, bandanas, etc.) will not be worn in any academic classrooms or the library.<br />
Final determination of appropriate dress will rest with the principal or his/her designee. Students wearing inappropriate clothing will<br />
be asked to change. Students may be sent home to change and are subject to disciplinary action.<br />
Consequences for violation of the dress code:<br />
First Offense:<br />
Warning<br />
Second Offense:<br />
Administrative Detention<br />
Third Offense:<br />
Friday ISS<br />
Subsequent Offenses:<br />
Friday ISS<br />
Drugs and Alcohol: Possession/and or use of drugs and alcohol, and/or drug paraphernalia is considered to be a serious violation<br />
of school rules. A student involved in the possession/and or use of drugs or alcohol, and/or drug paraphernalia will receive an<br />
immediate out-of-school suspension. (See Safe <strong>School</strong> Policy)<br />
Fighting: Fighting is considered to be a serious violation of school rules. A student involved in fighting will receive an immediate<br />
out-of-school suspension. (See Safe <strong>School</strong> Policy)<br />
Fire Alarms/Defibrillator: Pulling fire alarms or opening the defibrillator door when no emergency exists is an extremely serious and<br />
potentially life-threatening offense. Any student found responsible for pulling/opening, or in any other way falsifying an emergency<br />
activation, will be suspended for a period of five days, will make full restitution for costs (up to $300), and will be reported to the<br />
police for prosecution.<br />
Misrepresentation: Forging, altering, or misusing a pass or note is considered a violation of school policy. Students who engage in<br />
this or any other deliberate deception or fraudulent action will be subject to detention, loss of passes or Friday in-school suspension;<br />
parent/guardian will be notified.<br />
Offensive and Discriminatory Language: Profanity and vulgarity directed toward fellow students is regarded as inappropriate<br />
behavior. Disciplinary action for profanity will be taken and may range from a warning to an Friday in-school suspension.<br />
1<strong>48</strong>
Off Limits Area: In order to provide proper supervision and protect the rights of our neighbors, the following areas are deemed<br />
“Off Limits”:<br />
1. Any place outside the school building. Students are expected to come immediately into the building after arriving on school<br />
property either by car or bus. Students may not leave the property after arrival without proper permissions (administrative<br />
and parental) and following correct procedures.<br />
2. There are a number of places in the building in which students should not be during and after school time. Those areas are<br />
clearly marked on the doors (emergency use only). Students should not use these areas except in the case of an emergency.<br />
3. Any elevators without Administrative approval.<br />
Failure to adhere to this policy will result in the following:<br />
• First Offense – Friday In-<strong>School</strong> Suspension<br />
• Second Offense – Out-of-<strong>School</strong> Suspension<br />
Skip Teacher Detention: Any student who skips a teacher detention will be given an administrative detention; and the teacher<br />
detention will be reassigned.<br />
Smoking: N.H. law states, “Children over age 12 who sell, possess, or use tobacco can be treated as adults and fined up to $100<br />
and sentenced to community service, or both.” It is the policy of <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> that this prohibition will be applicable<br />
to all students while on school property or attending any school-sponsored activity. Consequences for the use or possession of<br />
tobacco products will be as follows:<br />
Possession/and or use of tobacco products on school property or during a school-sponsored activity will result in confiscation of the<br />
tobacco products, and a five-day out-of-school suspension. The five day suspension is waived pending participation and successful<br />
completion of a Tobacco Education and Awareness class. Second offense will result in a five-day out-of-school suspension. The<br />
police will be notified concerning any violation of tobacco products and may bring a petition to the court.<br />
Stealing: Stealing is a criminal act and will be dealt with severely. Any student found guilty of stealing will automatically be suspended<br />
for a period of two to five days and/or until complete restitution is made. The student will also be subject to prosecution according<br />
to state and municipal laws depending on the nature and the extent of the offense.<br />
Throwing Objects: The throwing of objects (including snowballs) is prohibited. Punishment will be determined by the seriousness<br />
of the offense.<br />
Vandalism: Any student involved in the vandalism of personal or school property may receive up to five days of out-of-school<br />
suspension (OSS). The student may not return to regular classes until full restitution is made. The student will also be subject to<br />
prosecution according to state and municipal laws depending on the nature and the extent of the offense. Long-term suspensions<br />
or referral for expulsion will be applied in major vandalism offenses.<br />
1. If a person or persons responsible for any act of vandalism taking place on school property is not identified, restitution will<br />
be shared equally by all classes, grades nine through twelve, by having the cost deducted from their class treasuries.<br />
2. Vandalism that takes place at any event sponsored by an organization is the responsibility of the organization and will be<br />
deducted from its profits.<br />
IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSIONS<br />
Students who are in violation of the established rules and regulations may be referred to the in-school suspension room. The<br />
in-school suspension program will be supervised by a full-time staff member. Students will be required to complete class work while<br />
assigned to the ISS room.<br />
Individual class in-school suspension regulations are:<br />
1. Teachers should only send students to ISS when they are disruptive and are preventing other students from learning. Otherwise,<br />
teachers are expected to handle situations within the classroom.<br />
2. The teacher will communicate directly with the parent whenever a student is sent to ISS out of their class for a disciplinary issue.<br />
Notify Assistant Principal if direct contact is not made.<br />
3. Students sent to ISS from an academic class:<br />
First occurrence - detention with teacher<br />
Second occurrence - meeting with Guidance counselor, teacher and student<br />
Third occurrence - removal from class and denied credit<br />
4. Students sent to ISS out of a study hall will serve an Administrative detention the following day.<br />
5. After three incidents of being sent to ISS (any class), students will be assigned a Friday ISS for each additional occurrence.<br />
FRIDAY IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION<br />
A. Friday ISS begins promptly at 2:30 p.m. and ends at 5:00 p.m. Students who arrive after 2:30 p.m. will not be admitted.<br />
B. Students must be on time and have schoolwork to do. There will be no talking at all for the entire period (2:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.).<br />
Failure to comply with these rules and successfully complete the Friday ISS requirements will result in a five-day suspension.<br />
C. ISS’s are to be served the Friday immediately following the infraction.<br />
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ADMINISTRATIVE DETENTION<br />
If necessary, administrative detention may be assigned to students for violations of school rules. Detentions will be served from 2:30<br />
p.m. to 3:15 p.m. every day after school. Twenty-four hour notice of the detention will be given so transportation arrangements can<br />
be made. Detentions will be served the day following the infraction. The only exceptions are medical (school nurse) or documented<br />
family emergency (parent contact prior to detention).<br />
Consequences for skipping an administrative detention, being late for a detention, being asked to leave because of not having work<br />
to complete, or talking during the detention will result in a Friday In-<strong>School</strong> Suspension and administrative detention reassigned.<br />
In the case of an absence from school on the day of a scheduled detention, the detention will be served the day when he/she<br />
returns to school.<br />
OUT-OF-SCHOOL SUSPENSION<br />
Infractions of certain rules and regulations will result in an out-of-school suspension. Whenever a student receives an out-of-school<br />
suspension, the following guidelines shall be adhered to:<br />
1. Students will be informed of the infractions that caused the out-of school suspension.<br />
2. Parents/guardian will be notified.<br />
3. Students will not be permitted to attend any school-sponsored activity during the suspension period.<br />
4. If a Friday is included in the suspension period, the student will be excluded from all weekend activities.<br />
5. RSA 193:13 states students may be suspended or expelled for gross misconduct and/or misconduct that is offensive/hostile or<br />
for refusal to conform to the reasonable rules of the school. Gross misconduct includes, but is not limited to, fighting, threatening,<br />
indecent exposure, harassment and other offenses.<br />
6. Students will not get credit for any work, tests, etc. while on OSS unless they are given Administrative approval or placed on<br />
Alternative OSS.<br />
7. Except in extreme situations, students will be offered Alternative Suspension a maximum of two times. Only one of which can<br />
be for not completing Friday ISS.<br />
a. Alternative OSS is from 7:30 a.m.-2:20 p.m. Students will work under supervision of the Assistant Principal or his designee,<br />
doing homework projects, taking tests, etc. and doing community service projects in the afternoon.<br />
b. Credit will be given for all work completed in Alternative OSS.<br />
c. Students who refuse to participate in our Alternative OSS program will not receive credit for any tests, quizzes, in-class work<br />
or homework due, on days of suspension.<br />
1st O.S.S.<br />
2nd O.S.S.<br />
3rd O.S.S.<br />
4th O.S.S.<br />
5th O.S.S.<br />
Out-of-<strong>School</strong> Suspension Chain of Command:<br />
Student meets with Assistant Principal and parents.<br />
- Student will be suspended up to 5 days.<br />
Student meets with Assistant Principal and parents.<br />
- Student will be suspended up to 5 days.<br />
Student meets with Assistant Principal and parents.<br />
- Student will be suspended up to 5 days.<br />
Student meets with Superintendent of <strong>School</strong>s, Assistant Principal and parents.<br />
- Student will be suspended up to 5 days by Assistant Principal and may be<br />
suspended further up to 20 days.<br />
Student meets with Superintendent of <strong>School</strong>s resulting in further suspension and/or expulsion<br />
by the <strong>School</strong>.<br />
RIGHT TO APPEAL DISCIPLINE PROCESS<br />
If a student or student’s parent/guardian, feel that they or their student have been incorrectly or unjustly disciplined, they may appeal<br />
using the following procedure:<br />
1) If the discipline occurred with the faculty or staff, the appeal will be directed to the Assistant Principal.<br />
2) If the discipline occurred with the Assistant Principal, the appeal would be directed to the Principal.<br />
3) If the situation is not resolved in the opinion of the students’ parents then the situation will be referred to the Superintendent.<br />
4) If the situation still is not resolved, the PRHS <strong>School</strong> Board will be the final deliberator of this situation.<br />
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SAFE SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT POLICY<br />
The Pemi-Baker <strong>School</strong> District wishes to promote a school environment in which learning will flourish. The environment recognizes<br />
the worth of the individual while at the same time valuing a spirit of community. Learning thrives best in an environment which fosters<br />
mutual respect and tolerance.<br />
Behavior on the part of students or staff, which creates a hostile environment, is unacceptable at <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>.<br />
Anger, frustration, and differences among members of the community must be worked out by means of communication and compromise<br />
and not through threats, intimidation, bullying or harassment.<br />
All members of our community must be guaranteed to work and learn in a safe and comfortable atmosphere. Incidents of threatening,<br />
harassing, bullying or intimidating behavior should be reported to the appropriate persons and handled as indicated below.<br />
Incidents may be reported to any faculty, Administrator, or staff member, who in turn will report occurrences to the Social Worker or<br />
other designated persons. (All incidents will be handled in the most informal manner appropriate to the situation).<br />
A. Minor Incidents<br />
Reports of minor and common everyday disputes and disruptive behavior will be handled by the Social Worker. A “Memorandum<br />
of Understanding” may be signed by both parties when asked by the Assistant Principal. This is an agreement in writing to have<br />
no contact with each other on school grounds. This agreement may be revoked if both parties agree. This must go through the<br />
Social Worker or the Assistant Principal. No further action will be taken.<br />
B. Other Incidents<br />
1. First Incident<br />
The Social Worker will start mediation procedures or delegate the process to other appropriate staff and inform the parents<br />
and Administration. (When appropriate, peer mediation can be used at this level).<br />
2. Second Incident<br />
A second incident will result in direct involvement of the parents or guardians in resolving the situation. The Administration<br />
will take disciplinary action if appropriate.<br />
3. Third Incident<br />
Third incidents of disruptive, harassing, bullying or threatening behavior will be reported to the Administration for appropriate<br />
action. Appropriate action may include, but not be limited to, suspension unless the Administration feels assured that the behavior<br />
will not continue. Where appropriate, other disciplinary action, counseling, or referral to police authorities will be initiated.<br />
4. Fourth Incident<br />
Persons reported repeatedly for disruptive, harassing, bullying or threatening behavior will be suspended, and the student<br />
will meet with the parents/guardian, the building Administration, the Superintendent of <strong>School</strong>s, and the police juvenile officer.<br />
The intent of the meeting will be to determine if further suspension will result and if a hearing before the Board of Education<br />
will be required.<br />
[Nothing in the policy is meant to preclude, replace, or substitute the enforcement of our policy regarding sexual harassment<br />
for the laws pertaining to criminal threatening or assault.]<br />
C. Fighting<br />
1. Fighting, inciting a fight or any physical assault will result in out-of-school suspension for up to five days or until the student<br />
and parents/guardian assure the Administration that the student’s return will not result in a hostile environment for others.<br />
Counseling will occur upon the student’s return. The police will be notified.<br />
2. A second offense of fighting or inciting will result in out-of-school suspension for up to five days and a meeting with the<br />
student, the parents/guardian, the building Administration, and the Superintendent of <strong>School</strong>s. The intent of the meeting<br />
will be to determine if further suspension will result and if a dismissal hearing before the <strong>School</strong> Board will be required. The<br />
police juvenile officer will be notified.<br />
3. A third offense will result in referral to the Board for dismissal.<br />
* Fighting includes, but not limited to: punching, hitting, pushing, or touching someone in a threatening manner. Any violation<br />
of section C may result in criminal prosecution.<br />
D. Violence Toward Faculty, Staff, or Administration<br />
No faculty, staff, or Administration member will be hit, pushed, or threatened. Such action will result in suspension, a meeting<br />
with the Superintendent of <strong>School</strong>s, and a dismissal hearing with the <strong>School</strong> Board. Police will be notified and any violation of<br />
section D will result in criminal prosecution.<br />
E. Clothing<br />
The wearing of articles of clothing, symbols, emblems, or insignias that cause intimidation, harassment or incites violence is not<br />
allowed. The Administration will determine if this section has been violated. An appeal may be made to a committee of seven<br />
consisting of two faculty members, two Administrators, and three students.<br />
F. Students 18 Years of Age or Older<br />
The law requires that students eighteen years of age or older will be dealt with as adults.<br />
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GENERAL STATEMENT POLICY ON SEXUAL HARASSMENT<br />
The <strong>School</strong> Districts of <strong>SAU</strong> #<strong>48</strong> are committed to an environment in which all members of the educational community can work<br />
and learn in an atmosphere of respect for their dignity, work, and well-being. Such an environment is one that is free of sexual<br />
harassment. Sexual harassment is illegal, unacceptable, and prohibited. Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act and Title IX of 1972<br />
protect all students and employees.<br />
It shall be a violation of this policy for any student or employee of <strong>SAU</strong> #<strong>48</strong> or one of its districts to harass a student or employee<br />
through conduct or communication of a sexual nature as defined by this policy. This includes harassment based on the sexual<br />
orientation or gender identity of a student or employee. The <strong>School</strong> Districts of <strong>SAU</strong> #<strong>48</strong> will act to investigate all complaints, either<br />
formal or informal, verbal or written, of sexual harassment and to discipline any student or employee who sexually harasses a student<br />
or employee of the <strong>SAU</strong> or one of its <strong>School</strong> Districts.<br />
SEXUAL HARASSMENT DEFINED<br />
A. Sexual harassment consists of unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, sexually motivated physical contact,<br />
or other verbal or physical conduct or communication of a sexual nature when:<br />
1. Submission to that conduct or communication is made a term or condition, either explicitly or implicitly, of obtaining or<br />
retaining employment, or of obtaining an education: or<br />
2. Submission to or rejection of that conduct or communication by an individual is used as a factor in decisions affecting that<br />
individual’s employment or education: or<br />
3. That conduct or communication has the purpose or effect of substantially or unreasonably interfering with an individual’s<br />
employment or education, or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive employment or education environment.<br />
Any action or conduct as defined above when directed at any student or employee or by student or employee will be treated<br />
as sexual harassment under this policy.<br />
B. Sexual harassment may include but not limited to:<br />
1. Verbal harassment or abuse;<br />
2. Subtle pressure for sexual activity;<br />
3. Inappropriate patting or pinching;<br />
4. Intentional brushing against a student’s or employee’s body;<br />
5. Demanding sexual favors accompanied by implied or overt threats concerning an individual’s employment or educational status;<br />
6. Demanding sexual favors accompanied by implied or overt promises of preferential treatment with regard to an individual’s<br />
employment or education status;<br />
7. Any sexually motivated unwelcome touching;<br />
8. Dating one’s student<br />
REPORTING PROCEDURES<br />
Any person who believes he or she has been the victim of sexual harassment by a student or an employee of the <strong>School</strong> District or<br />
<strong>SAU</strong>, or any third person with knowledge or belief of conduct which may constitute sexual harassment should report the alleged acts<br />
immediately to an appropriate official as designated by this policy. The <strong>SAU</strong> and its <strong>School</strong> Districts encourage the reporting party<br />
or complainant to use the report form available from the Principal of each building or available from the <strong>SAU</strong> office.<br />
A. Informal - Each school and the <strong>SAU</strong> office shall have an informal complaint process, adapted to the sensitive nature of sexual<br />
harassment complaints, to address allegations of sexual harassment. The information procedure will establish a process which<br />
allows for resolution by mutual agreement and provides for a readily accessible and flexible means of dealing with complaints<br />
of sexual harassment. The process must protect the rights of both parties. By law, the victim defines sexual harassment. What<br />
one person may consider acceptable behavior may be viewed as sexual harassment by another person. Each building will<br />
identify a sexual harassment coordinator who will be responsible for receiving oral or written reports of sexual harassment at<br />
the building level. Upon receipt of a report, the Principal must be notified. The Title IX Officer will be informed by the Principal.<br />
B. Formal - The formal process is used if the victim is not satisfied with the result from the informal process or if the victim wishes<br />
to formalize the complaint because of its magnitude. The <strong>School</strong> Board hereby designates the Assistant Superintendent and<br />
another member of the <strong>SAU</strong> of the opposite gender as Title IX officers to receive reports or complaints of sexual harassment<br />
from any individual, employee, or victim of sexual harassment and also from the building Principal as outlined above. If the<br />
complaint involves one of the officers, the complaint shall be filed directly with the Superintendent. If the complaint involves the<br />
Superintendent, the complaint shall be filed with the <strong>SAU</strong> Board chairperson. All buildings shall have conspicuously posted the<br />
name of the officer including mailing address and telephone number.<br />
C. Submission of a complaint or report of sexual harassment will not affect the complainant’s future employment, grades, or work<br />
assignments.<br />
D. Use of formal reporting forms is not mandatory.<br />
E. The <strong>SAU</strong> and its <strong>School</strong> Districts will respect the confidentiality of the complaint and the individual(s) against whom the complaint<br />
is filed as much as possible, consistent with legal obligations and the necessity to investigate allegations or harassment and<br />
take disciplinary action if the alleged misconduct has occurred.<br />
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INVESTIGATION AND RECOMMENDATION<br />
By authority of the <strong>School</strong> District and <strong>SAU</strong>, the Title IX Officer, upon receipt of a report or complaint alleging sexual harassment,<br />
shall immediately inform the Superintendent and authorize an investigation. This investigation may be conducted by <strong>School</strong> District,<br />
<strong>SAU</strong> officials, or by a third party designated by the <strong>School</strong> District. The investigating party shall provide a written report of the status<br />
of the investigation within 10 working days to the Superintendent of <strong>School</strong>s and Title IX Officer. If the Superintendent is the subject<br />
of the complaint, the report shall be submitted to the <strong>SAU</strong> <strong>School</strong> Board chairperson.<br />
In determining whether alleged conduct constitutes sexual harassment, the <strong>SAU</strong> and the <strong>School</strong> Districts should consider the<br />
surrounding circumstances, the nature of the sexual advances, relationships between parties involved, and the context in which the<br />
alleged incidents occurred. The investigation may consist of personal interviews with the complainant, the individual(s) against whom<br />
the complaint is filed, and others who may have knowledge of the alleged incident(s) or circumstances giving rise to the complaint.<br />
The investigation may also consist of any other methods and documents deemed pertinent by the investigator.<br />
In addition, the <strong>SAU</strong> and <strong>School</strong> Districts may take immediate steps, at its discretion, to protect the complainant, students, and<br />
employees pending completion of an investigation of alleged sexual harassment. The <strong>School</strong> District Title IX Officer shall make a<br />
report to the Superintendent upon completion of the investigation.<br />
SCHOOL DISTRICT ACTION<br />
A. Upon receipt of a recommendation that the complaint is valid, the <strong>SAU</strong> or <strong>School</strong> District will take such action as appropriate<br />
based on the results of the investigation.<br />
B. The result of the investigation of each complaint filed under these procedures will be reported in writing to the complainant, the<br />
<strong>SAU</strong>, and <strong>School</strong> District. This includes the in-formal process. The report will document any disciplinary action taken as a result<br />
of the complaint.<br />
NON-REPRISAL<br />
The <strong>SAU</strong> and the <strong>School</strong> District will discipline any individual who retaliates against any person who reports alleged sexual harassment<br />
or who retaliates against any person who testifies, assists or participates in an investigation, proceeding or hearing relating to a<br />
sexual harassment complaint. Retaliation includes, but is not limited to, any form of intimidation, reprisal or harassment.<br />
NON-HARASSMENT<br />
The <strong>SAU</strong> and its <strong>School</strong> Districts recognize that not every advance or consent of a sexual nature constitutes harassment. Whether<br />
a particular action or incident is a personal, social relationship without a discriminatory employment effect requires a determination<br />
based on all the facts and surrounding circumstances. False accusations of sexual harassment can have a serious, detrimental<br />
effect on innocent parties.<br />
RIGHT TO ALTERNATIVE COMPLAINT PROCEDURES<br />
These procedures do not deny the right of any individual to pursue other avenues of recourse such as filing a complaint by a student<br />
under Title IX with the grievance officer or filing inquires may also be directed to the:<br />
• US Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, 33 Arch St., Suite 900, Boston, MA 02110-1491 (617) 289-0111.<br />
• Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, JFK Federal Building, Room 475, Government Center, Boston, MA 02201 (617)<br />
565-3200.<br />
• NH Commission for Human Rights, 2 Chennell Dr., Concord, NH 03301 (603) 271-2767.<br />
SEXUAL HARASSMENT AS SEXUAL ABUSE<br />
Under certain circumstances, sexual harassment may constitute sexual abuse under state statutes. In such situations, the <strong>SAU</strong> and<br />
its <strong>School</strong> Districts shall comply with the reporting requirements of state law and the procedures under the policy on child abuse.<br />
DISCIPLINE<br />
Any action taken pursuant to this policy will be consistent with requirements of applicable collective agreements, state statutes<br />
and <strong>School</strong> District and <strong>SAU</strong> policies. The <strong>SAU</strong> and <strong>School</strong> Districts will take such disciplinary action as deemed necessary and<br />
appropriate including warning, suspension, or immediate discharge to end sexual harassment and prevent its recurrence.<br />
POLICY GUIDELINES REGARDING THE TEACHING OF SEXUALITY<br />
In order to minimize confusion and assist teachers relative to appropriate instruction in regard to sexuality, the following guidelines<br />
are established. Teachers seeking to vary the guidelines must have Superintendent’s approval.<br />
1. In keeping with the stated policy of N.H. General Court, instruction must stress that “abstinence or a monogamous relationship<br />
and avoiding drugs are the most effective ways to prevent contracting the human immunodeficiency virus. The curriculum and<br />
instruction must place high value on the abstinence message.<br />
2. Parents must sign a waiver if their student is to be excused from specific instruction regarding sexuality issues. This waiver<br />
also releases the <strong>School</strong> District from any liability for harm that the student may experience because he or she did not receive<br />
facets of health instruction at <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>. The Superintendent will approve the informational waiver form.<br />
Parents will have an opportunity upon request to preview all instructional materials.<br />
3. Gay and lesbian youth will be afforded the same respect and dignity as other youth. They will not be discriminated against or<br />
treated intolerantly. Questions raised by students will be answered with non-judgmental facts.<br />
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4. All books will have final approval by the Principal and Superintendent.<br />
5. Abortion is a controversial issue and if raised during classroom instruction, particular attention will be paid to presenting all sides<br />
of the issue in an unbiased and non-prejudicial manner.<br />
6. There will be no distribution of condoms, birth control pills, or other forms of contraceptives.<br />
7. Instruction relative to condoms will be consistent with the New Hampshire Educator’s Handbook, A Guide for Developing HIV/AIDS<br />
Curriculum as revised by the State Board of Education in collaboration with the New Hampshire Department of Education. Instruction<br />
relative to condoms will not use replicas.<br />
8. Students will be encouraged to discuss issues raised by instruction with their parents.<br />
HAZING POLICY<br />
The Pemi-Baker <strong>School</strong> District wishes to promote a school environment in which learning will flourish. The environment recognizes<br />
the worth of the individual while at the same time valuing a spirit of community. Learning thrives best in an environment that fosters<br />
mutual respect and tolerance.<br />
All coaches and advisors will be informed of their responsibilities to promote a safe environment for all student participants. The Principal,<br />
Athletic Director and the student services director will insure that the evaluation process for each coach and advisor will include an<br />
analysis of their promotion of a safe environment.<br />
The practice of hazing, as a means of initiating new members of any co-curricular group, club or team, will not be encouraged, condoned,<br />
or tolerated by <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>. “Hazing” includes any conduct or method of initiating students into any student team<br />
or organization, which subjects a student to physical or mental abuse and/or publicly embarrasses or humiliates the student.<br />
Any coach or advisor who encourages, condones or tolerates such practices will be subject to disciplinary action including termination.<br />
Any team or activity member taking part in the hazing or initiating of other team or activity members will be subject to disciplinary<br />
action including being dropped from the group, club, or team. If the hazing or initiation takes place within the last week of an athletic<br />
season, the student(s) participating will be subject to disciplinary actions, including being ineligible to participate in any sport/activity<br />
the next season.<br />
Under New Hampshire Law, the implied or even expressed consent of any persons toward whom an act of hazing is directed is not<br />
a defense for hazing.<br />
As required by the State of New Hampshire Student Hazing Law (RSA 631:7), all such incidents will be reported to the police.<br />
Pemi-Baker <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>School</strong> District BULLYING AND CYBERBULLYING<br />
The Pemi-Baker <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>School</strong> Board believes that students are entitled to learn in a school environment that is safe and secure.<br />
Students are expected to conduct themselves with respect for others and in accordance with this policy and other Board policies<br />
and school rules governing student conduct. The Board will take reasonable steps to protect all students from the harmful effects of<br />
bullying and cyber bullying that occurs at school and/or that interferes with student learning and orderly school operations.<br />
The Superintendent is responsible for implementing this policy, but may delegate specific responsibilities to administrators and<br />
others as he/she deems appropriate.<br />
A. Prohibited Conduct<br />
Students are prohibited from bullying and cyber bullying actions or communications directed toward other students which:<br />
1. Occur on, or are delivered to, school property or a school-sponsored activity or event on or off school property; or<br />
2. Occur off school property or outside of a school-sponsored activity or event, if the conduct interferes with a student’s<br />
educational opportunities or substantially disrupts the orderly operations of the school or school-sponsored activity or event.<br />
Students are further prohibited from retaliating against or making false accusations against a victim, witness or anyone else who<br />
in good faith provides information about an alleged act of bullying or cyber bullying.<br />
B. Definitions<br />
For the purposes of this policy, the following definitions shall apply:<br />
1. “Bullying” means a single significant incident or a pattern of incidents involving a written, verbal or electronic communication,<br />
or a physical act or gesture, or any combination thereof, directed at another student which:<br />
a. Physically harms a student or damages the student’s property;<br />
b. Causes emotional distress to a student. For the purposes of this policy, the term “emotional distress” means distress<br />
that materially impairs the student’s participation in academic or other school-sponsored activities. The term “emotional<br />
distress” does not include the unpleasantness or discomfort that accompanies an unpopular viewpoint;<br />
c. Interferes with a student’s educational environment;<br />
d. Creates a hostile educational environment; or<br />
e. Substantially disrupts the orderly operation of the school.<br />
“Bullying” shall also include actions motivated by an imbalance of power based on a student’s actual or perceived personal<br />
characteristics, behaviors or beliefs, or motivated by the student’s association with another person and based on the other person’s<br />
characteristics, behaviors or beliefs if those actions cause one or more of the results in paragraphs (a) through (e) above.<br />
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Bullying or cyber bullying of a student on the basis of sex, sexual orientation, race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion,<br />
age, marital status, familial status, pregnancy, physical or mental disability may constitute illegal discrimination under federal<br />
and/or state laws. Complaints regarding such conduct may be processed through the Board’s Student Discrimination and<br />
Harassment Complaint Procedure (ACAA-R).<br />
2. “Cyber bullying” means conduct defined in Paragraph 1 that takes place through the use of electronic devices.<br />
3. “Electronic devices” include but are not limited to telephones, cellular phones, computers, pagers, electronic mail, instant<br />
messaging, text messaging and websites.<br />
4. “<strong>School</strong> property” means all real property and all physical plant and equipment used for school purposes, including public<br />
or private school buses or vans.<br />
5. “Perpetrator” means a student who engages in bullying or cyber bullying.<br />
6. “Victim” means a student against whom bullying or cyber bullying has been perpetrated.<br />
C. Disciplinary Consequences and Intervention Programs<br />
Administrators have the discretion to determine appropriate disciplinary consequences and/or interventions for violations of this<br />
policy based upon the relevant facts and circumstances in a particular case, including but not limited to the age and maturity<br />
of the students involved; the type and frequency of the behavior; a student’s willingness to cooperate in the investigation and<br />
correct behavior; and the student’s prior disciplinary record.<br />
Disciplinary consequences may include detention, suspension or expulsion from school. In addition, students may be required<br />
to participate in education programs, mediation, counseling and/or other programs and/or activities to address and prevent<br />
recurrence of bullying and cyber bullying behavior.<br />
D. Reporting Bullying and Cyber bullying<br />
Students who are subjected to bullying or cyber bullying, or who observe bullying/cyber bullying by or against other students<br />
are strongly encouraged to report it to the building principal, guidance counselor and/or teachers.<br />
<strong>School</strong> staff and volunteers who observe bullying or cyber bullying are required to report these incidents to the building Principal/<br />
Assistant Principal as soon as practicable. Parents and other adults are also encouraged to report any concerns about possible<br />
bullying or cyber bullying of students to the building principal.<br />
E. Report Handling and Investigation<br />
1. The building administrator shall notify the parents/guardians of the alleged victim(s) and perpetrator(s) that a bullying/cyber<br />
bullying report has been made within <strong>48</strong> hours of the report and in accordance with applicable privacy laws. However, the<br />
building principal may request a waiver of this parent notification requirement from the Superintendent. The Superintendent<br />
may waive parent/guardian notification at this stage of the procedure if he/she determines this to be in the best interest of<br />
the victim(s) and/or the perpetrator(s). Any such waiver of the parent notification requirement shall be made in writing.<br />
2. An investigation of the bullying/cyber bullying report will be initiated by the building principal within five school days.<br />
a. The alleged perpetrator(s) will be provided the opportunity to be heard as part of the investigation.<br />
b. Privacy rights of all parties shall be maintained in accordance with applicable laws.<br />
c. The building principal shall keep a written record of the investigation process.<br />
d. The building principal may take interim remedial measures to reduce the risk of further bullying/cyber bullying, retaliation<br />
and/or to provide assistance to the alleged victim while the investigation is pending.<br />
e. The building principal shall consult with the Superintendent as appropriate concerning the investigation and any remedial<br />
measures or assistance provided.<br />
f. The investigation shall be completed within 21 school days of receipt of the report, if practicable. The Superintendent<br />
may grant in writing an extension of time to complete the investigation of up to seven additional school days if necessary.<br />
The Superintendent shall notify all parties involved of any such extension.<br />
g. If the building principal substantiates the bullying/cyber bullying report, he/she shall, in consultation with the Superintendent<br />
determine what remedial and/or disciplinary actions should be taken against the perpetrator(s) and determine what<br />
further assistance should be provided the victim(s), if any.<br />
h. The building principal shall inform the victim(s), the perpetrator(s) and their parents/guardians in writing of the results of the<br />
investigation and any remedies and/or assistance provided by the school, including strategies for protecting students from<br />
retaliation. Such communication shall be provided within ten school days and shall be in compliance with applicable privacy laws.<br />
F. Training<br />
1. The school administration shall provide appropriate training on this policy for school employees, regular school volunteers<br />
and any employees of companies contracted to provide services directly to students. The purpose of the training is to<br />
prevent bullying/cyber bullying if possible, and to educate staff on how to properly identify, respond to and report incidents<br />
of bullying/cyber bullying.<br />
2. The school administration shall provide age-appropriate education programs for students and parents regarding this policy,<br />
bullying/cyber bullying prevention, how to identify, respond to and report bullying/cyber bullying.<br />
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All training and education programs shall be initially approved by the Superintendent. Building administrators are responsible for<br />
scheduling the required training and education programs each year.<br />
G. Annual Report to New Hampshire Department of Education<br />
The Superintendent shall prepare and submit an annual report of substantiated bullying/cyber bullying incidents on the form<br />
provided by the New Hampshire Department of Education. Such reports shall not contain personally identifiable information<br />
regarding students.<br />
H. Immunity<br />
Any employee of the school district, the <strong>SAU</strong>, or contract company, regular school volunteer, student or parent/guardian shall<br />
be immune from civil liability for good faith conduct arising out of or pertaining to the reporting, investigation, findings, and the<br />
development or implementation of any recommended response under this policy.<br />
I. Policy Dissemination<br />
This policy shall be posted on the district website and included in student and employee handbooks. It shall also be provided to<br />
employees of any company contracted to provide services directly to students. The policy may also be disseminated by other<br />
means as determined by the Superintendent.<br />
PEMI-BAKER SCHOOL DISTRICT SUICIDE INTERVENTION POLICY AND PROCEDURE<br />
A student’s school community constitutes a significant portion of his/her daily lives and studies have shown that students and<br />
adolescents can and do occasionally suffer from serious depression which may lead to thoughts and plans of suicide.<br />
When a student threatens suicide or manifests any signs of his/her intent to any employee of the Pemi-Baker <strong>School</strong> District, said<br />
employee shall take immediate action to intervene on behalf of the student and the student’s family. The district recognizes most<br />
employees may not be equipped to perform the necessary steps which may be required. Therefore, said employees shall refer any<br />
student who verbalizes thoughts of self-harm and any reports of suicidal behaviors to the staff member designated in the procedure<br />
for implementing this policy. While the District recognizes that some students may make suicidal comments to employees without<br />
intent, it also recognizes the importance of clinical training in making judgments concerning intent of self-harm.<br />
The Pemi-Baker <strong>School</strong> District recognizes a parent’s right to be informed of any suicidal comment, threat, or gesture made by a<br />
minor to an employee during school hours, on school premises, or during legitimate school functions. Enrolled students, eighteen<br />
years and over, should be accorded the confidential privileges of adults. However, the District reserves the right to treat any specific<br />
suicidal act or gesture as a danger to self.<br />
Personnel involved in suicide prevention and intervention efforts should, within the limits of the law and professional ethics, respect<br />
the student’s right to privacy. This will include the keeping and maintaining of confidential records and confidentiality laws pertaining<br />
to those records. To this end, the District will seek to limit, to the minimum number possible, the personnel needed to secure the<br />
safety and well being of the student in need.<br />
One of the following people shall be notified by any employee: Psychologist, Social Worker, Nurse, Guidance, Principal, Assistant<br />
Principal, Superintendent, or Assistant Superintendent.<br />
Procedure:<br />
A. If a Medical Emergency Exists<br />
1. The nurse or his/her designee will follow school procedures for a medical emergency.<br />
2. Parents/guardians are notified.<br />
3. Principal is notified.<br />
4. Students eighteen or older are requested to give verbal/written consent for parental notification unless they are unable to<br />
do so as a result of the emergency.<br />
B. If no Medical Emergency Exists<br />
1. The employee will notify the Psychologist unless he/she is unavailable, in which case the Social Worker, Guidance counselor,<br />
or nurse should be notified.<br />
2. Upon receiving notification, the Psychologist or above designated professional will assess the report and elect to interview<br />
the student immediately or by the end of the school day.<br />
3. If a person other than the Psychologist interviews the student, the Psychologist should be informed of the circumstances.<br />
The Psychologist’s office becomes the office of record for the student in question.<br />
4. Parents/Guardians of a minor child are notified. Students 18 or older are requested to provide informed consent to notify<br />
significant others.<br />
5. If warranted, the student will be referred to the local mental health center for further evaluation. If the student is already<br />
involved with a mental health professional, the referral will be made to that professional.<br />
6. The Psychologist or designee will consult with the mental health center or private professional regarding the disposition of<br />
the referred student.<br />
7. The student will be seen by the Psychologist or designee upon returning to school for a follow up meeting.<br />
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NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY STATEMENT<br />
The <strong>School</strong> Administrative Unit #<strong>48</strong> <strong>School</strong> Boards including, Campton, Ellsworth, Holderness, Pemi-Baker, <strong>Plymouth</strong>, Rumney,<br />
Thornton, Waterville Valley, and Wentworth have adopted a policy of nondiscrimination on the basis of sex, race, creed, color, country<br />
of national origin, handicapping condition, disability or age.<br />
Pemi-Baker Cooperative <strong>School</strong> District, in accordance with the requirements of Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972;<br />
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, The Age Discrimination Act of 1975, Individuals<br />
with Disabilities Education Act, and amendments thereto in Public Laws, hereby declare formally that it is the policy of the Pemi-Baker<br />
Cooperative <strong>School</strong> Board in their actions, and those of their employees, that there shall be no discrimination on the basis of sex,<br />
race, creed, color, country of national origin, disability or age for employment in, participation in, or operation and administration of<br />
any educational program or activity in the district’s schools.<br />
Inquiries, complaints and other communications relative to the compliance of this policy and other public laws and federal regulations<br />
concerned with nondiscrimination, shall be addressed to:<br />
Title IX Coordinator:<br />
Kathy Boyle, Assistant Superintendent, 47 Old Ward Bridge Road, <strong>Plymouth</strong>, NH 03264 - (603) 536-1254<br />
Section 504 Coordinator:<br />
Robert J. Price, Assistant Principal, 86 Old Ward Bridge Road, <strong>Plymouth</strong>, NH 03264 - (603) 536-1444<br />
Any complaints or alleged infractions of the policy, law, or applicable regulations, will be processed through the grievance procedure<br />
as outlined in this Parent/Student Handbook.<br />
The Board acknowledges that their policy of nondiscrimination applies to employment practices in hiring and personnel management<br />
as well as to admissions and participation in, and operation and administration of programs and activities within the Pemi-Baker<br />
Cooperative <strong>School</strong> District, and is applicable to all persons employed or served by the district.<br />
DEFINITIONS OF NONDISCRIMINATION LAWS<br />
Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color or national origin in any program or activity<br />
receiving Federal financial assistance (34 CFR Parts 100 and 101).<br />
Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex under federally-assisted education<br />
programs or activities (34 CFR Part 106).<br />
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 prohibits discrimination on the basis of handicap in any program or activity receiving<br />
Federal financial assistance (34 CFR Part 104).<br />
The Age Discrimination Act of 1975 prohibits discrimination on the basis of age in programs or activities receiving Federal financial<br />
assistance (42 USC 1601, et.seq.).<br />
IDEA Individuals with Disabilities Act and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), 42 USC Section 12134, prohibits<br />
discrimination on the basis of disability in all services, programs and activities of state and local governments.<br />
NONDISCRIMINATION UNDER FEDERAL GRANTS & PROGRAM<br />
No otherwise qualified individual with a disability in the United States as defined in Section 7(20)[29 U.S.C. § 706(20)], shall, solely<br />
by reason of her or his disability, be excluded from the participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination<br />
under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance or under any program or activity conducted by any Executive<br />
agency or by the United States Postal Service.<br />
Definitions<br />
Individual with a Disability:<br />
any individual who<br />
(i) has a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more such person’s major life activities,<br />
(ii) has a record of such impairment, or<br />
(iii) is regarded as having such an impairment.<br />
(29 USC sec 794)<br />
Physical or Mental Impairment<br />
(A) any physiological disorder or condition, cosmetic disfigurement, or anatomical loss affecting one or more of the following<br />
body systems: neurological; musculoskeletal; special sense organs; respiratory; including speech organs; cardiovascular;<br />
reproductive; digestive; genitourinary; hemic and lymphatic; skin; and endocrine; or<br />
(B) any mental or psychological disorder, such as mental retardation, organic brain syndrome, emotional or mental illness, and<br />
specific learning disabilities.<br />
(34 Code of Federal Regulations Part 104.3)<br />
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Major Life Activities<br />
functions such as caring for one’s self, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, working,<br />
sitting, standing, lifting, reaching, thinking, concentrating, interacting with others, and sleeping which is an everyday activity an<br />
average person can perform with little or no difficulty.<br />
(34 Code of Federal Regulations Part 104.3)<br />
Has a Record of Such an Impairment<br />
has a history of, or has been classified as having, a mental or physical impairment that substantially limits one or more major life<br />
activities.<br />
(34 Code of Federal Regulations Part 104.3)<br />
Is Regarded as Having an Impairment<br />
(A) has a physical or mental impairment that does not substantially limit major life activities but is treated by a recipient as<br />
constituting such a limitation;<br />
(B) has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits major life activities only as a result of the attitudes of others<br />
toward such impairment; or<br />
(C) has none of the impairments defined but is treated by a recipient as having such an impairment.<br />
(34 Code of Federal Regulations Part 104.3)<br />
NONDISCRIMINATION GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE-(Excludes IDEA)<br />
The Pemi-Baker Cooperative <strong>School</strong> Board, in accordance with the requirements of Title IX of the Education Amendments 1972;<br />
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, The Age Discrimination Act of 1975, Individual<br />
with Disabilities Education Act, and amendments thereto in Public Laws, hereby declare formally that it is the policy of the board<br />
in their actions, and those of their employees, that there shall be no discrimination on the basis of sex, race, creed, color, country<br />
of national origin, disability, or age for employment in, participation or operation and administration of any educational program or<br />
activity in the district’s schools.<br />
Step 1: Informal inquiry, complaint or communications to Building Level<br />
Nondiscrimination Coordinator and/or Director of Special Education<br />
Any inquiries, complaints, or other communications relative to the compliance of any nondiscrimination laws should initially be<br />
addressed informally at the local school level. These inquiries should be addressed to the Building Level Nondiscrimination<br />
Coordinator, and/or the Director of Special Education, <strong>SAU</strong> # <strong>48</strong>, 47 Old Ward Bridge Road, <strong>Plymouth</strong>, NH 03264, (603) 536-1254.<br />
Step 2: Formal Complaint to the Assistant Superintendent<br />
A formal complaint should be filed in writing to the Assistant Superintendent, containing the name and address of the person<br />
filing it, and briefly describe the alleged violation of the regulations. Formal Complaints should be addressed to: Assistant<br />
Superintendent <strong>SAU</strong> # <strong>48</strong>, 47 Old Ward Bridge Road, <strong>Plymouth</strong>, NH 03264, (603)536-1254. The <strong>SAU</strong> #<strong>48</strong> Nondiscrimination<br />
Coordinator will maintain the files and records relating to the complaints filed.<br />
• A formal complaint should be filed within five business days after the complainant becomes aware of the alleged violation.<br />
(Processing allegations of discriminations that occurred before this grievance procedure was in place will be considered on<br />
a case –by-case basis.)<br />
• While there is a formal complaint form available to students, parents, staff and others for the filing of complaints, reports<br />
may be made verbally or in writing.<br />
• An investigation as may be appropriate will follow the filing of a complaint. The investigation will be conducted by an Assistant<br />
Superintendent. These rules contemplate informal but thorough investigations, affording all interested persons and their<br />
representatives, if any, an opportunity to submit evidence relevant to a complaint.<br />
• A written determination as to the validity of the complaint and a description of the resolution, if any, will be issued by an<br />
Assistant Superintendent and a copy forwarded to the parties involved of the outcome of the complaint no later than ten<br />
business days after its filing.<br />
Step 3: Reconsideration by Superintendent<br />
The complainant can request a reconsideration of the case in instances where he/she is dissatisfied with the resolution. The<br />
request for reconsideration should be made within five business days to the Superintendent of <strong>School</strong>s, <strong>SAU</strong> #<strong>48</strong>, 47 Old<br />
Ward Bridge Road, <strong>Plymouth</strong>, NH 03264, (603) 536-1254. The Superintendent shall meet with all parties involved, formulate a<br />
conclusion, and respond in writing to the complainant within 10 business days.<br />
Step 4: Appeal to <strong>School</strong> Board<br />
If the complainant remains dissatisfied, he/she may appeal through a signed written statement to the local Board of Education<br />
within five business days of his or her receipt of the superintendent’s response, as documented in Step three. In an attempt<br />
to resolve the grievance, the local Board of Education shall meet with the concerned parties and their representatives within<br />
thirty business days of the receipt of such an appeal. A copy of the local Board’s disposition of the appeal shall be sent to each<br />
concerned party within ten business days of this meeting.<br />
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Step 5: Right to Alternative Complaint<br />
The right of a person to a prompt and equitable resolution of the filed complaint will not be impaired by the person’s pursuit of<br />
other remedies, such as the filing of a nondiscrimination complaint with the responsible federal department or agency. Using<br />
the district’s grievance procedure is not a prerequisite to the pursuit of other remedies. These procedures do not deny the right<br />
of any individual to pursue other avenues of recourse such as filing a complaint by a student under Title IX with the grievance<br />
officer or filing inquires may also be directed to the:<br />
• US Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, 33 Arch St., Suite 900, Boston, MA 02110-1491 (617) 289-0111.<br />
• Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, JFK Federal Building, Room 475, Government Center, Boston, MA 02201<br />
(617) 565-3200.<br />
• NH Commission for Human Rights, 2 Chennell Dr., Concord, NH 03301 (603) 271-2767.<br />
These rules will be construed to protect the substantive rights of interested persons, meet appropriate due process standards and<br />
assure that <strong>SAU</strong> #<strong>48</strong> complies with all Nondiscrimination Policies and Procedures.<br />
VIDEO SURVEILLANCE<br />
Video cameras will be used on school property to enhance safety and security. The Superintendent or his/her designee will ensure<br />
there is signage informing those on school property that such video recording is occurring.<br />
All recordings shall be retained for a period not to exceed thirty-one days, unless the Principal determines that the recording is<br />
relevant to a disciplinary proceeding and these shall be erased at the conclusion of the disciplinary process.<br />
Video recording used as part of disciplinary investigations or proceedings shall be considered an educational record for purposes of<br />
the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Therefore, release of video recordings will only occur pursuant to disclosure<br />
requirements of FERPA.<br />
POLICY ON DRUG AND ALCOHOL EDUCATION AND ABUSE GRADE K-12<br />
The <strong>School</strong> Board of Pemi-Baker <strong>School</strong> District, recognizing the significance of problems related to drug and alcohol use by students<br />
and others established the following drug and alcohol policy guidelines.<br />
1. The use and/or possession of non-prescribed, mind-altering, and/or illegal drugs and alcoholic beverages, and/or drug paraphernalia<br />
on school premises and in connection with any school related activity/function on or off school premises, is prohibited.<br />
2. All Administrative rules and regulations shall reflect the District’s desire to protect and promote the health and well being of<br />
its students, and to create an educational atmosphere in which sensible, as well as legal, attitudes toward drug/alcohol use can<br />
be developed by students.<br />
3. The Administration/staff shall cooperate with the law enforcement agencies in an effort to eliminate the illegal sale, possession,<br />
and use of drugs/alcoholic beverages on school property or at any school sanctioned event. Criminal prosecution could result.<br />
4. Authority and responsibility in the handling of drug/alcohol-related problems shall reside with the Pemi-Baker <strong>School</strong> Board<br />
who may delegate this responsibility to the Superintendent of <strong>School</strong>s. The Board/Superintendent shall be responsible for the<br />
implementation of rules, regulations, and procedures. Whenever student behavior or other actions indicate possession, use, or<br />
distribution of drugs/alcohol, the cognizant school personnel shall immediately notify the Principal.<br />
5. The Board/Administration shall work to establish and maintain an effective program of drug education. It/they shall also work<br />
cooperatively with the community in its efforts to combat the problem of substance abuse.<br />
INTERVENTION PROCEDURE<br />
The intervention procedure provides for student identification through the court system, school drug and alcohol policy violations,<br />
or by referral.<br />
SCHOOL DRUG AND ALCOHOL POLICY VIOLATORS<br />
When a student is believed to be in violation of the drug and alcohol policy (i.e., under the influence of or in possession of any nonprescribed,<br />
mind altering, and/or illegal drug or alcoholic beverage, and/or drug paraphernalia) while involved in any school-related<br />
activity or while on school property, the Administration shall initiate the due process procedure outlined below:<br />
A. The situation will be investigated and the parent/guardian will be notified of the result. At this time the student will be given the<br />
opportunity to present information on his/her behalf. If appropriate, a significant other or mentor (as determined by the student,<br />
parent, and/or Administration) may be involved in this discussion.<br />
B. Once the situation has been investigated and if the respective individual is found in violation, the Administration shall impose<br />
a ten-day out-of-school suspension. Seven of the ten days will be waived contingent upon the student’s continuous successful<br />
involvement/cooperation with a substance abuse program as determined by the Administration and may include Drug Court<br />
and will include the following:<br />
1. Student will be asked to submit a drug screen administered on the day of the situation (at the parents’ expense).<br />
2. The student will participate in a short-term substance abuse educational program. Confirmation to the school will be needed<br />
within three days of the offense that the student will be entering the sub-stance abuse program.<br />
3. The student will undergo an informal assessment which will be conducted by a staff assessment team which may consist<br />
of a representative of the Administration, a Guidance counselor, and/or a substance abuse resource person.<br />
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4. If deemed appropriate by the staff assessment team, the student may be required to undergo a formal assessment to be<br />
conducted by a psychologist or other person qualified to conduct such an assessment. (This will be at the expense of the<br />
parents/guardian.)<br />
5. The student will participate in a program designed to respond to the individual student’s problem/degree of substance<br />
abuse. Such a program may include a related educational, preventative program, counseling by a specialist, and/or therapy.<br />
Parents/guardians will be financially responsible for such a program. The student and parents will also be made aware of<br />
the available support systems within the school and community.<br />
6. The student and/or his/her parents will sign a release of information and be subject to regular random drug screening at<br />
the parent’s expense for the rest of the time the student is enrolled at PRHS or PBA. Failing any random drug screen could<br />
result in suspension and any treatment deemed necessary by the assessment team.<br />
7. The police will be notified and the student would be arrested for possession and/or being under the influence of drugs or alcohol.<br />
In the event a student fails to complete the assessment team’s recommendations or chooses not to participate, the remainder of<br />
the ten-day suspension will be imposed and the appropriate law enforcement officials will be notified for the purpose of petitioning<br />
the court to act on this case.<br />
C. The Superintendent shall be notified of all suspensions in writing.<br />
D. The appropriate law enforcement officials shall be notified. The <strong>School</strong> Board reserves the right in unusual circumstances to<br />
maintain the confidentiality of the matter.<br />
E. Students determined to be in violation of this policy for a second time shall meet with the Administration to discuss the violation:<br />
1. The Administration will notify the parents and law enforcement officials.<br />
2. The student will be suspended out-of-school for five to ten days during which a hearing before the <strong>School</strong> Board will be<br />
scheduled for the purpose of hearing details of the respective student’s behavioral and academic history and to determine<br />
what further disciplinary action will be taken. Such action may result in expulsion from school.<br />
REFERRALS<br />
Students may refer themselves or may be referred by the court system, parents, teachers, Guidance counselors, or others.<br />
1. Students so referred will not face suspension or notification of law enforcement officials.<br />
2. The student will undergo an informal assessment to determine his/her dependency on substances. The assessment will be<br />
conducted by a team which may (depending on the situation) consist of the Administration, a Guidance counselor, and/or a<br />
substance abuse resource person.<br />
3. Based on the results of this informal assessment, the student may undergo formal assessment by a psychologist and/or person<br />
qualified to conduct such an assessment. The expense of this assessment will be borne by the parents/guardian.<br />
4. The student will be given the opportunity to participate in a substance abuse program including educational, preventative<br />
programs, counseling, and/or therapy.<br />
INVOLVEMENT IN CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES<br />
A. When a violation of the Drug and Alcohol Policy occurs while a student is involved as a participant in or spectator at any<br />
school-related and/or school-sponsored activity, or occurs on school property -<br />
1. The student shall not be allowed to participate in any school co-curricular activity/function for a period of nine weeks from<br />
the time of the incident. If the student agrees to participate in the assessment and treatment program described above, the<br />
suspension shall be reduced to two weeks.<br />
2. Students determined to be in violation of this policy for a second time shall not be allowed to participate in any school<br />
co-curricular activity/function for a period of nine weeks from the time of the incident.<br />
B. When a violation of the Drug and Alcohol Policy occurs during the school year, but while a student is off school property, the<br />
student shall not be allowed to participate in any school co-curricular/athletic activity for the next event.<br />
SALE AND/OR DISTRIBUTION OF DRUGS<br />
The <strong>School</strong> Board will work pro-actively with law enforcement officials and the courts to prosecute to the fullest extent of the law any<br />
individual involved in the sale and/or distribution of non-prescribed mind altering and/or illegal drugs and alcoholic beverages or any<br />
substance that is represented by an individual to be alcohol or a mind altering or controlled drug. The use of any of the above on<br />
school premises or in connection with any school related activity/function on or off school premises is strictly prohibited.<br />
[Administrative Policy - Student involvement in sale and/or distribution of drugs/alcohol may result in expulsion without benefit of<br />
the assessment and treatment program].<br />
PRESCRIPTION AND NON-PRESCRIPTION DRUGS<br />
Prescription and non-prescription drugs which a student has on prescription or through written parent authorization and are carried onto<br />
school property must be kept in the nurse’s office along with a copy of the prescription. The drug must be taken in the nurse’s office as well.<br />
The distribution and/or sale of prescription and/or non-prescription drugs to others are strictly forbidden; suspension and counseling<br />
will result. Other action may also be taken.<br />
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PEMI-BAKER REGIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT<br />
WEAPONS POLICY<br />
Weapons are not permitted on school property. Visitors, faculty, staff and students are not allowed to carry weapons in the school<br />
buildings, on school property, or at school-sponsored events.<br />
Any violation of this policy will be reported to the police.<br />
In addition, students will have weapons confiscated, parents/guardians, will be notified, and appropriate disciplinary action will be<br />
taken. Suspension and/or expulsion can result.<br />
Weapons include, but are not limited to: firearms, knives, pellet and BB guns, firecrackers, brass knuckles, self defense sprays<br />
(MACE, pepper, or other sprays), or any object that can be used to inflict harm or injury.<br />
Law enforcement personnel are exempt.<br />
Courses or activities such as hunter safety require the specific written approval of a waiver and monitoring by the Administration.<br />
The school district complies with RSA 193:13 (Suspension and Expulsion of Students).<br />
1. The Superintendent, or chief administering officer, or a representative designated in writing, is authorized to suspend pupils<br />
from school for gross misconduct or for neglect or refusal to conform to the reasonable rules of the school, providing that where<br />
there is a suspension lasting beyond five school days, the parent or guardian has the right to appeal any such suspension to<br />
the local Board. Any suspension to continue beyond twenty school days must be approved by the local Board.<br />
2. Any pupil may be expelled from school by the local <strong>School</strong> Board for gross misconduct or for an act of theft, destruction, or<br />
violence as defined in RSA 193-D:1, or for possession of a pellet gun or BB gun or rifle and the student shall be subject to review<br />
if requested prior to the start of each school year and further, any parent or guardian has the right to appeal any such expulsion<br />
by the local Board to the State Board of Education.<br />
3. Any pupil who brings or possesses a firearm as defined in Section 921 of Title 18 of the US Code, in a safe school zone, as<br />
defined in RSA 193-D:1, without written authorization from the Superintendent or designee, shall be expelled from school by<br />
the local Board for a period of not less than twelve months. Any expulsion shall be subject to review by the <strong>School</strong> Board if<br />
requested by a parent or guardian prior to the start of each school year, and further, any parent or guardian shall have the right<br />
to appeal any such expulsion by the local Board to the State Board of Education.<br />
4. Any pupil expelled by the local <strong>School</strong> Board under the provisions of Gun-Free <strong>School</strong>s Act of 1994 shall not be eligible to enroll<br />
in another <strong>School</strong> District in New Hampshire for the period of such expulsion. Nothing in this section shall be construed to prevent<br />
the local <strong>School</strong> District that expelled the student from providing educational services to such students in an alternative setting.<br />
5. A pupil expelled from school in another state under the provisions of the Gun-Free <strong>School</strong>s Act of 1994 shall not be eligible for<br />
the period of such expulsion.<br />
STUDENT ACCEPTABLE USE COMPUTER POLICY<br />
Purpose of this Document<br />
To establish a policy to promote efficient, secure, ethical and legal use of the <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>’s computer information<br />
systems. This policy applies to all students of computer information systems at <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>.<br />
Definition<br />
The definition of “computer information systems” is any configuration of computer hardware, software and peripherals that connect<br />
students. This includes all internal (intranet) and external (Internet) connections, as well as all of the computer hardware, operating<br />
system software, application software, stored text and data files. This also includes electronic mail, local databases, externally<br />
accessed databases, CD-ROM, recorded magnetic or optical media, digitized information, communication technologies and any<br />
new technologies as they become available. Stand-alone workstations are also governed by this Policy.<br />
Introduction<br />
<strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> recognizes that computer information systems are used to support learning and to enhance<br />
instruction. One of the goals for <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> is to provide students with the privilege of using the computer<br />
information systems and to keep the number of restrictions to a minimum while maintaining excellent service for all students. To<br />
assist <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> in achieving these objectives, students themselves must observe reasonable standards of<br />
behavior in the use of these facilities.<br />
Student Responsibilities<br />
Successful operation of the computer information systems requires that all students conduct themselves in a responsible, decent,<br />
ethical and polite manner while using the computer information systems. The student is ultimately responsible for his/her actions<br />
while accessing the computer information systems.<br />
Students will not respond to any illicit or suspicious activities. Students shall immediately report such activities to an appropriate<br />
administrator, teacher or staff member, or to the school technology coordinator.<br />
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USAGE GUIDELINES<br />
Acceptable Use<br />
1. Access to the computer information systems at PRHS is a privilege and must be recognized as such by all students.<br />
2. Computer information systems will be used for the purpose of research, education and school related business and operations.<br />
3. All students must respect the privacy of other students and the confidentiality of passwords.<br />
4. All use of the computer information systems will be performed through the students’ own designated account. Account owners<br />
are ultimately responsible for all activity under their accounts.<br />
5. All software installation will be done by PRHS authorized personnel only.<br />
6. All software used on PRHS equipment must be licensed to PRHS or <strong>SAU</strong><strong>48</strong>.<br />
7. Student-owned laptops can be used at PRHS during study halls, free periods and at the discretion of teachers, in the classroom.<br />
Network/Internet access will not be permitted for these units.<br />
Unacceptable Use<br />
PRHS has the right to take disciplinary action, remove computer information systems privileges and/or take legal action, for any activity<br />
characterized as unethical or unacceptable. Unacceptable activities include, but are not limited to, any activity through which any student:<br />
1. Uses the computer information systems for illegal or obscene purposes, or in support of such activities.<br />
2. Uses the computer information systems for commercial purposes.<br />
3. Engages in activities that would be in violation of Federal Copyright Laws.<br />
4. Downloads, installs, copies or loads any software applications, programs, shareware, utilities, and trial versions of any software<br />
or games onto computers or network folders.<br />
5. Attempts to modify or disconnect computer equipment, peripherals and cables.<br />
6. Attempts to modify or destroy system software components such as operating systems, compilers, utilities, applications or other<br />
software residing on any school computer.<br />
7. Attempts to bypass, change or otherwise defeat systems and network security, such as the use of proxy sites to gain access to<br />
prohibited internet sites or to gain access to other user’s folders, programs or files.<br />
8. Shares passwords so that others have access to one’s account. The use of a student account other than one’s own account is prohibited.<br />
9. Attempts to connect to and/or gain access to information being transported by computer networks, or to install, run or place<br />
software designed for this purpose on any school computer.<br />
10. Attempts to connect to or use school computers with a user ID that was not assigned to you by the school. Use of another<br />
person’s user ID or password is prohibited.<br />
11. Attempts to gain access to a password belonging to another person. In addition, no attempts shall be made to install, run or<br />
place software designed for this purpose on any school computer.<br />
12. Attempts to interfere with the proper operation of a computer or interfere with another person’s use of a computer.<br />
13. Attempts to use <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>’s computer information systems and Internet services for unauthorized local<br />
or remote game playing.<br />
14. Attempts to use <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>’s computer information systems for political, commercial or business purposes.<br />
15. Attempts to steal or damage data, equipment or intellectual property.<br />
16. Attempts to intentionally disrupt the proper operation of school’s computer information systems.<br />
Restricted Materials and Actions<br />
To keep students and our computer information systems secure, the following is NOT allowed:<br />
1. Use of personal email accounts. Students may not access these accounts from the school network. This includes, but is not<br />
limited to Hotmail, AOL mail, Yahoo mail and personal internet mail through an Internet Service Provider account.<br />
2. Use of peer-to-peer files sharing programs, including, but not limited to, Napster, Scout and Gnutella.<br />
3. Use of Instant Messaging, including , but not limited to, AOL Instant Messenger, MSN Messenger, ICQ, Yahoo Messenger or<br />
any other programs that function as such.<br />
4. Use of chat rooms unless with prior approval by the Technology Coordinator.<br />
5. Downloading to and/or storage of illegal MP3 files on school equipment.<br />
6. Disclosure of personal contact information such as name, address or phone number to unknown or questionable web sites.<br />
<strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> regularly monitors computer and network usage. When placing files on computer systems and/<br />
or network folders, students should be aware that the Technology Coordinator has access to their files is authorized to review the<br />
contents of their account when investigating problems or suspected computer usage abuse.<br />
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Consequences of Violations<br />
<strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> values the appropriate and responsible use of its computer information systems. Any student<br />
suspected of violating the school’s Acceptable Use Computer Policy guidelines may be denied access to the schools computer<br />
information systems. Students who are deemed in violation of any rules and guidelines outlined in this Policy will be referred to the<br />
Assistant Principal for disciplinary action including, but not limited to, the following consequences:<br />
First Infraction: removal from the computer information systems for five school days.<br />
Second Infraction: removal from the computer information systems for twenty school days.<br />
Third Infraction: removal from the computer information systems for sixty school days.<br />
The above consequences are cumulative over a period of one school year. Infractions of this policy may result in further disciplinary<br />
action based on the rules outlined in the Student Behavior section of the Student Handbook. Infractions of an illegal nature will be<br />
reported to the local legal authorities. It is important to understand that the loss of privileges to use computer information systems may<br />
result in a grade reduction or loss of credit for any classes in which computer information systems are used. <strong>School</strong> administrators<br />
of <strong>Plymouth</strong> <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> reserve the right to modify the consequences outlined above if deemed appropriate based on<br />
specific circumstances.<br />
INTERNET ACCESS POLICY<br />
The Pemi-Baker <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>School</strong> District’s intent is to make Internet access available to further its educational goals and objectives.<br />
Although it does not have control of the information on the Internet, the Pemi-Baker <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>School</strong> District does provide prudent<br />
filtering of Internet sites.<br />
The Pemi-Baker <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>School</strong> District believes that the benefits to educators and students from access to the Internet, in the form<br />
of information resources and opportunities for collaboration, far exceed any disadvantages of access. Ultimately, the parent(s) or<br />
guardian(s) of minors are responsible for setting and conveying the standards that their child should follow. To that end, the Pemi-Baker<br />
<strong>Regional</strong> <strong>School</strong> District supports and respects each family’s right to decide whether or not to permit Internet access for their child.<br />
All Pemi-Baker <strong>Regional</strong> <strong>School</strong> District students will by default, be granted access to the Internet. If you do not want your<br />
child to have access to the Internet, you must contact the school and request an Internet Restriction Form. You will need to sign<br />
this form and return it to the school’s main office. IF WE DO NOT RECEIVE THIS FORM, YOUR CHILD WILL BE ALLOWED TO<br />
ACCESS THE INTERNET.<br />
BUS REGULATIONS<br />
Bus service to and from school is a method of transportation afforded students by the Pemi-Baker <strong>School</strong> Board. This is not a right<br />
students have but a privilege. Consequently, it will be taken away from students who act inappropriately or jeopardize the safety of<br />
students in any way.<br />
Rules for Safe Student Transportation:<br />
A. Students will take a seat and remain in it until the bus reaches school or home. The driver may assign definite seats to students.<br />
B. Students will not throw anything while they are on the bus.<br />
C. Students will not do anything to distract the driver. This includes the playing of radios or tape players without the use of headphones.<br />
D. There will be no fooling around or fighting on the bus or while waiting for it.<br />
E. Students are not to put head, hands, or arms out of the windows.<br />
F. Aisles are to be kept free from books, carryon bags, and other objects.<br />
G. Students who must cross the road after leaving the bus will cross in front of the bus on signal from the driver.<br />
H. Students will not eat on the bus.<br />
I. Students will line up single file to pass in or out of the bus.<br />
J. Students will be ready to take the bus when it arrives. Drivers will not wait for students who are not ready.<br />
K. Permission to ride may be taken away for unsatisfactory conduct on the bus after due warning:<br />
1. First offense - bus driver will notify the Assistant Principal, who will speak to the student, notify the parent, and take necessary<br />
action.<br />
2 Second offense - bus driver will notify the Assistant Principal who will notify the parent. The privilege of riding on the bus<br />
will be taken away for one week with transportation to be provided by the parents.<br />
3. Third offense – Student will be denied the privilege of riding the bus for an indefinite period of time to be determined by the<br />
Assistant Principal.<br />
NOTE: If offense is of a serious nature, student may be suspended from riding the bus on first offense.<br />
Any questions concerning bus transportation should be addressed to:<br />
Mr. Neil Robertson 726-4463 or 726-7366.<br />
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ROBERTSON’S TRANSIT - BUS ROUTES<br />
Please note that all times are approximate. Bus stops and times may be adjusted during the course of the school year. All students<br />
should be at their bus stop at least 5 minutes before their bus is expected to arrive. Bus drivers and bus numbers are subject to<br />
change. Any questions call Robertson’s at 726-4463.<br />
Wentworth/Rumney – Bus #172<br />
6:20 Route begins at Wentworth Elementary <strong>School</strong>, continues on Route 25 East for rural pick-ups.<br />
6:25 Arrives at Shawnee’s Store, continues on Route 25 East for rural pick-ups<br />
6:30 Turns onto North Dorchester Road for rural pick-ups and turns back to Route 25<br />
6:40 Reaches intersection of Route 25 and Route 118 for pick-ups<br />
Bus travels Old Route 25 East for rural pick-ups<br />
Bus then travels down Route 25 East for rural pick-ups<br />
6:50 Pick-up travels Depot Street<br />
Bus continues to travel down Route 25 East for rural pick-ups<br />
Bus turns onto <strong>High</strong>land Street<br />
7:00 Bus makes final stop at Plaza Village<br />
7:05 Bus arrives at PRHS<br />
<strong>Plymouth</strong> Route – Bus #117<br />
6:33 Bus travels Yeaton Road<br />
Bus turns West on Route 3A to Yeaton tanks<br />
Bus returns to East on Route 3A<br />
6:37 Pick up @ Tenney Mt. Country Store<br />
Bus turns onto Bell Road @ bottom of Hoyt Hill<br />
Bus travels Old Hebron Road to Texas Hill Road to town line<br />
6:50 Bus turns around @ town line<br />
Bus travels back Texas Hill to New Hebron Road<br />
6:58 Bus turns on to New Hebron Road<br />
Bus turns right on Reservoir Road<br />
Bus travels to school<br />
7:05 Bus arrives PRHS<br />
Ashland Route 1 – Bus #120<br />
6:38 Bus travels South on Route 3through Ashland<br />
Bus travels on River Street<br />
Bus continues North on Route 3<br />
Bus turns onto Owl Brook Road for rural pick-ups<br />
6:40 Arrives at the foot of Hicks Hill Road for pick-ups<br />
Bus travels <strong>High</strong>land Street toward town for rural pick-ups<br />
6:50 Pick-up on Main Street at hardware store<br />
Pick-up at West Street<br />
Pick-up at North Ashland Road<br />
Pick-up at Whip-O-Will Park<br />
Bus travels up Parker Street for rural pick-ups<br />
7:05 Intersection of Texas Hill & Langdon<br />
Bus continue to school<br />
7:10 Bus arrives at PRHS<br />
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Ashland Route 2 – Bus #166<br />
6:32 Bus travels Winter Street for pick-ups<br />
6:34 Pick-up at Depot & Winter Streets<br />
Bus turns left on Depot Street<br />
Pick-ups on Depot Street<br />
6:35 Bus turns onto Washington Street<br />
Bus travels down Winona Road<br />
Ledgewood Estates<br />
6:36 At the monument<br />
Bus travels through Ashland and North on Route 3<br />
Bus makes a North bound loop on River Road<br />
Continues rural pick-ups on Route 3<br />
6:<strong>48</strong> Rite-Aid<br />
6:52 Bus arrives at PRHS<br />
Holderness Route – Bus #173<br />
6:35 Route begins at corner of East Holderness Road and Route 3 for<br />
Pick-ups; Proceeds along Route 3 North for rural pick-ups<br />
6:37 Yankee Trail Motel<br />
6:40 Stops at the Holderness Free Library<br />
Proceeds along Route 3 North for rural pick-ups<br />
Continues on Route 175 North for rural pick-ups<br />
6:45 Stops in front of the Holderness Central <strong>School</strong><br />
Continues on Route 175 North for rural pick-ups<br />
6:<strong>48</strong> North Ashland Road; continues on Route 175 North<br />
Bus turn onto Mt. Prospect Road and turns at Heritage Hill<br />
6:55 River Street; Bus proceeds to high school<br />
7:00 Bus arrives at PRHS<br />
Campton/Thornton Route 1 – Bus #115<br />
6:25 Begins rural pick-ups along Mad River Road<br />
6:27 Uhlman Drive; bus continues toward Route 49<br />
6:35 Route 49 West rural pick-ups<br />
6:40 Campton Cupboard for pick-up; continue on Route 175 South<br />
6:43 Pick-up at the Winter Brook Road; continue on Route 175 South<br />
6:45 Beebe River; Corner of Perch Pond Road and Route 175;<br />
Continue rural pick-ups to<br />
6:50 Livermore Falls Trailer Park<br />
Bus continues south rural pick-ups on the way to school<br />
7:10 Bus arrives at PRHS<br />
165
Rumney / <strong>Plymouth</strong> Route – Bus #116<br />
6:29 Route begins at the corner of <strong>School</strong> Street and Route 25<br />
Bus proceeds down <strong>School</strong> Street for rural pick-ups<br />
6:37 Bus pick-up at Restaurant on corner of Depot Street<br />
6:39 Pick up by the Common<br />
6:40 Trailer after big rock<br />
Bus travels Quincy Road making stops along the way<br />
6:45 Bus turns onto Fairgrounds Road<br />
6:45 Loon Lake<br />
Bus continues on Fairgrounds Road for pick-ups<br />
6:55 Beech Hill Road<br />
Bus continues on Fairgrounds Road for pick-ups<br />
Bus turns South on Route 3<br />
Bus continues to school<br />
7:02 Bus arrives at PRHS<br />
Campton/Thornton Route 2 – Bus #167<br />
6:25 Begins on Route 175 North rural pick-ups<br />
6:30 Thornton Central <strong>School</strong><br />
Continue Route 175 North to Cross Road for rural pick-ups<br />
Turn onto Cross Road and turn onto Route 3 North for rural pick-ups<br />
6:43 Mirror Lake Road; bus turns around and continues South on Route 3 for rural pick-ups<br />
6:53 Adams Farm Road; bus turns onto Route 49 East<br />
6:55 Campton Mobil Station<br />
Bus returns to Route 3 South for rural pick-ups<br />
7:05 Corner of Route 3 and Bog Road<br />
Continue rural pick-ups along Route 3 South<br />
Bus continues to school<br />
7:15 Bus arrives at PRHS<br />
166
167
168