SRES
15 School Street
PO Box 308
Saxtons River, VT 05154
2007-2008 SCHOOL HOURS
Grades K-5.....8:25-3:00
IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS
Saxtons River School ...... 869-2637
Saxtons River School Fax …8692631
Superintendent’s Office.....463-9958
Transportation Director.....463-9958
Special Education Office.....463-1612
Electronic Communications: You may reach the school secretary and the principal at the following email addresses:
Arrival at School: Walkers and bicycle riders are asked to arrive at school no sooner than 7:50am and should leave the school grounds immediately after dismissal. Exceptions must be approved by the Principal. No students are allowed to ride or bring motorized vehicles of any kind to school.
Leaving School: If you wish your child to leave school by a different means than usual, please be sure that he or she has a permission slip. Pupils may not ride home with persons other than their parents unless written permission is received from their parents. Children are not to leave the school grounds during school hours. If you need to pick up your child during the school day, please be sure to check in with the office before doing so.
Please note that School Street is one-way past the school building. To prevent accidents, walkers and bikers should never leave the school against the flow of traffic on School Street. If you do want your child to walk down School Street against the traffic, please send a note into school to this effect.
School Attendance: School is your child’s work world and should be treated as the most important thing he or she does during the week. Regular attendance at school is necessary for healthy cognitive and social growth and is required by law. Students should be at school every day, well-rested and ready to learn.
Absences: Attendance is checked daily in each classroom. You should notify
the school by 8:45 AM if your child is not going to be in attendance. Reasons for
excusable absences include personal illness, bereavement, family emergencies, and observation of major religious holidays. The school must follow up when we do not receive a call or note from you concerning your child’s absence. A call will be made to your home or place of work to verify absenteeism.
Tardiness: Children who arrive at school after 8:30 AM must bring a note explaining the reason for being tardy. Although unforeseen circumstances may create a situation where a child must be late on occasion, it is important that you make every effort to have your child arrive on time for the start of school each day. Chronic lateness disrupts classroom routines and deprives children of the chance to connect with their teacher and classmates. Important announcements and information may also be missed.
Extended Absences: Please try to plan family trips and vacations so that they do not conflict with the school schedule. If your child must be away from school for an extended absence, please give his/her teacher and the Principal notice of the absence as soon as possible. Teachers may suggest activities, homework assignments, and projects for your child to do while you are away, however the most important learning activities take place each day in the classroom. Simply doing the assignments that accompany classroom activities is not a substitute for attending school.
Food Service Programs: The school provides healthy and nutritious meals for students every day. Breakfast is served each morning from 8:00-8:20AM. Lunch times are as follows:
Grades K and 1: 11:10-11:35
Grades 2 and 3: 11:35-12:00
Grades 4 and 5 12:00-12:25
Please feel free to come in to school to have lunch with your child. Give us a call beforehand if you would like to purchase a meal for yourself.
Forms for the Federal Free and Reduced Lunch Program will be sent home with your child on the first day of school. (Your child can still receive free or reduced lunches while these forms are being processed.) If you have applied through the VT Department of PATH, you will have already received a letter confirming your participation in the program. It is not necessary to fill the free and reduced forms out again. If you have not already applied for the program, please be sure to check over the guidelines to see if yiour family qualifies. The Free and Reduced Lunch Program offers substantial savings to families. Please return these forms to school as soon as possible.
Paying for meals: Meals must be paid for in advance. They may be paid for by the day, week, or month. To protect the confidentiality of families, we do not collect payment for breakfast or lunches in the lunchroom. Please place payments in an envelope with your child’s name on it. His or her classroom teacher will collect these envelopes at the beginning of the school day and send them to the office for accounting. Payment envelopes may also be given to the food service staff at breakfast time. Food service prices:
Lunch $1.50
Milk only $00.40
Breakfast $1.00
School Closing: Should school be closed for an emergency or bad weather, it will be reported on the local radio stations, WCFR(1480), WSSA(1570), WKNE(103.7, WKBK(1290), WTSA96.7), WKVT(1490), and KIXX (100.5).
Health Information: The Rockingham School Board encourages parents to preserve and protect each student’s general health. The Rockingham School Board recommends that each child receive a physical exam before entering kindergarten or first grade. A preschool child may receive immunizations free of charge through the Vermont Health Department and the State of Vermont provides several insurance options for people with low incomes. The school nurse can provide you with information about these services.
Health Records: It is important for the school nurse to know of any hospitalizations, illnesses, or operations that your child has had in order to update his or her health record.
Head Lice: Please be sure to notify the nurse if your child gets head lice or scabies so other children in the class can be checked. This is important to reduce the spread of head lice or other communicable conditions. Routine head checks at home are encouraged.
Rest, Nutrition, and Hygiene are important for your school-age child. A child should receive 8-10 hours of sleep at night. Late night outings and sleep-overs with a friend are best saved for the weekend. Breakfast is the child’s “fuel” for the morning, so help your child plan for time to eat breakfast. Please send a nutritious snack for your child
at school. Hygiene should be maintained daily and health habits developed in the home.
Clothing should be appropriate for the weather. The children go outside for recess, weather permitting, each day. Footwear should be appropriate for all activities.
Illness: All well children are expected to be in school every day. Any child who has an elevated temperature or has nausea and vomiting should remain at home until symptoms are gone. During the flu and cold season children should be reminded to practice good hygiene. They should be reminded to wash their hands frequently, especially before meals and after going to the bathroom. Children should not carry cough drops, lozenges, cold pills or aspirin to school. These are considered medications and medication policy must be adhered to.
Annual Routine Screenings are performed by the school nurse and include vision and hearing, height and weight, nutritional assessments, blood pressure (grade 1 only), and an immunization record review. Please notify the school nurse if you have any concerns regarding the routine screening or if you would like to refer your child for an early vision or hearing screening or a recheck.
Administering Medicines to Students: It is more desirable for medication to be administered at home whenever possible. However, any student who is required to take medication during the school day must comply with the following regulations:
1. The school must have on file written or verbal orders from a physician detailing the name of the drug, dosage, and when the medication needs to be given.
2. The school must have written permission from the parent or guardian of a pupil
requesting that the school district comply with the physician’s orders.
3. The prescribed medication must be brought to the school in a container
appropriately labeled by the pharmacy or the physician and delivered to the school nurse.
4. The school nurse shall provide a locked cabinet for the storage of such medication.
5. The above applies to non-prescription (over the counter), as well as prescription
medications.
6. Tylenol may be given at school with yearly written permission by parent or guardian. A standing order for Tylenol with parent or guardian written permission is attached to the health form.
Benadryl and epinephrine will be administered in accordance with the procedure and standing orders for bee sting, allergy, and anaphylaxis. Board Policy JHCD
Emergency Phone Numbers (IMPORTANT): We must have telephone number of 3 friends or relatives and your place of employment that can be contacted in case of an emergency. Please keep these numbers updated at all times.
Field Trips: Field trips provide excellent opportunities for teachers to expand and enrich the learning experiences of their students. A blanket permission form will be sent home on the first day of school for all field trips taken within the WNESU. For out of district field trips, parents will be asked to send in special permission. Parents will be informed of field trips by their child’s teacher or by the school newsletter unless they are in the immediate vicinity of the school and come up spontaneously. No child will be allowed to go on a field trip without a signed permission slip. Student behavior during field trips is
required to be up to the same standards expected at school. Inappropriate behavior, either on trips or at school, may jeopardize future trips for the child.
SRES Newsletter: The Newsletter is published just about every week and should arrive home with your child on Thursdays. It is also posted on our website: http://www.sreshome.net . The Newsletter provides information about school events, news, messages from teachers, PTO news, and lots more. On a space-available basis, we also publish information regarding events and classes at
not-for-profit organizations that sponsor activities for families and children. If you have an item you would like published, please get it to the principal by Wednesday at noon. Electronic formatting is preferred over hard copy. Final decisions about materials chosen for publication are strictly up to the administration.
Homework Club: We are currently working on the staffing for the homework club for this year for students in grades 3-5. The homework club meets from 3:00-3:30 PM Monday through Thursday. There is no homework club on Fridays or on early release days. A permission slip for this activity will be sent home with students when we have finalized these plans.
Visiting and Volunteering: Visitors are always welcome and volunteers are encouraged! It is best practice to consult with your child’s teacher beforehand concerning the best times to visit the classroom or to volunteer. As a safety precaution, all visitors must sign in at the office.
Please contact your child’s teacher or the school office if you would like to volunteer at the school. A sign-up list of activities is included in the forms packet sent home on the first day of school.
SRES Parent-Teacher’s Organization: The PTO is a not-for-profit organization that meets every month and supports many projects and programs, both financially and through volunteer work. New members are always welcome! Please give the school office a call for more information. Co-presidents for the 2007-2008 school year are Karen Wallace and Carol Perley.
PTO Reading Challenge: The Parent-Teacher’s Organization runs the SRES Reading Challenge. This program encourages children to read, both at school and at home, with small prizes and rewards as each child achieves higher numbers of pages read. Any kind of reading counts, as do books that are read aloud by adults. Look for a sheet with more complete information and a new tally sheet in the SRES forms packet that comes home at the beginning of school.
Progress Reports and Parent-Teacher Conferences: The school year is divided into three reporting periods. In November, individual conferences are scheduled for each parent. Your child’s teacher will contact you to set up this conference. The children will also bring home progress reports in November, March, and June. Additional conferences, either by phone or in person, are invited or may be scheduled as necessary. Please schedule these in advance with your child’s teacher so that he or she may be well prepared to meet with you. The office will be happy to assist you with setting up a meeting time.
Review of Records: We are trustees of your child’s records. You are welcome to review your child’s test results and permanent folder. You have may additional rights accorded you. A complete policy on student records is available at the school or supervisory union office. You must call the school office in advance in order to make an appointment if you wish to review your child's educational records.
Use of Telephone: Students will not be allowed to use the office telephone except in case of an emergency. Children may not leave the class to use the phone or for any other purpose without their teacher’s permission. Please plan visits with friends and other after school. Also, please use extreme discretion in calling the school to leave messages for your child, so that interruptions to school procedures can be kept to a minimum.
Appropriate School Dress: School clothing should be functional and reflect a positive attitude on the part of the student toward his/her job-learning. Consequently, appropriate dress at school is somewhat more formal than what may be worn for play at home. Halter tops, metal chains and objects, spaghetti straps, tee shirts with baggy armpits, short shorts, and the like can be distracting to other students and should not be worn at school. For safety’s sake, we suggest that clogs and sandals without backs should not be worn to school. Long dresses or long shirts hinder activities on the playground and gym. During changeable or cold weather, children
should have appropriate warm clothing. Please label your child’s clothing to avoid loss. Also, check the lost and found frequently..
For physical education, please have your child wear athletic type sneakers that have laces or velcro and comfortable clothing that is appropriate for all activities. For the safety of your child and others, neither watches nor jewelry of any kind would be worn on the days that your child has physical education.
Party Invitations: Please help prevent hurt feelings by sending party invitations either by mail or by telephone rather than distributing them during school.
Guidance Counselor: Our guidance counselor provides a wide range of services. If you feel that your children are experiencing any difficulties, please contact the guidance office.
Special Education: We have numerous programs to serve children with Individual Education Plans. Under Public Law 101-476 , all eligible children have the right to a free and appropriate education. If there is such a child in your home or neighborhood, please call the school. Should you have any questions about our Special Education Programs, please call our office or our Special Education
Coordinator at 463-1612. The Windham Northeast Supervisory Union, including the school districts of Rockingham, Grafton, Westminster and Bellows Falls Union High School #27, needs to know if there are children or youth between the ages of zero (0) and twenty-one (21) years who have developmental delays, learning difficulties or who are out of school and not receiving any education at all.
Educational Support Team: Saxtons River School has an Educational Support Team that helps children who may be having a wide range of emotional, cognitive, and/or disciplinary problems in the school. The team meets regularly to suggest accomendations and interventios to help each child succeed. Teachers, parents, or other school personnel may make a referral tot he EST. If your child is referred to the EST, the school will notify you and invite you to the team meeting. Please call the office if you have any questions regarding the EST.
Title I Program: The Saxtons River Elementary School has a school-wide Title I program that serves all students. Currently two teachers are funded through this program. They work with students in all of the grades in reading and mathematics. Periodically, the school holds informational meetings and sends home surveys regarding the Title I program that are required by federal law. You will also receive a copy of the School-Parent Compact in the opening of school form packet. Please sign this form (there will be a space for your child to sign it, too) and return it to school. This paperwork is required by law in order for the district to continue to receive federal financial support.
We appreciate your help in meeting these requirements and we invite your comments and suggestions regarding ways to make these programs more effective.
Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program: Our health curriculum includes objectives related to drug and alcohol abuse prevention at each grade level, as mandated by federal law. School district policy clearly prohibits the purchase, use, possession, or being under the influence of drugs and alcohol. Possession of devices specifically associated with alcohol or drug use is also prohibited. There is a support and referral system in place for those in need.
Smoking: Use of tobacco products is prohibited on school grounds at all times by state law and school board policy. Please observe this prohibition when visiting the school grounds for after school sports practices and events.
School Board Policies and State and Federal Laws: All schools within the Windham Northeast Supervisory Union recognize their responsibility to provide all students and employees with a working environment that is safe and conducive to learning for all. As a result, there are policies to ensure that this environment is created and maintained. The following list of Rockingham School District policies are contained in the Windham Northeast Supervisory Policy Manual and/or are part of state and federal laws:
C6 Board Commitment to Non-Discrimination
G11 Acceptable Use of Electronic Resources and the Internet
F21 Weapons
F20 Harassment of Students
E8 Tobacco Prohibition
F7 Alcohol and Drug Abuse
F24 Hazing
A complete copy of the policies follows this handbook. Each policy contains procedures to carry out the policy, including a grievance procedure for fairly and promptly investigating and deciding complaints of violations. To request copies of policies, contact the principal or the Office of the Superintendent of Schools or check the WNESU web site.
School Rules: The Saxtons River Elementary School is a community that is made up of students, teachers, parents, and other adults who work with the school. For a community to function smoothly everyone needs to take care of each other and to treat each other with kindness and respect at all times. When people choose not to do this, they need to be held responsible for their actions. These school rules are intended to help students and parents understand what the expectations are for behavior. Teachers may have additional rules that are specific to
situations in their classrooms.
At all times-
1. Speak to all people and treat all materials with respect.
2. Follow instructions.
3. No teasing, bullying, or harassing others.
4. No rough touching or fighting with others.
In the school building-
- Students are expected to be silent or to talk quietly as they move through the hallways and up and down stairs.
-Do not run on the stairs or in the hallways.
-The school building is old (but very cool!)-- Treat it with respect.
In the lunchroom-
-Students should not switch seats once they have chosen one.
-Shouting, yelling, or talking at the top of one's voice is not allowed. Children that do this will be warned to keep their voices down. However, it is okay to talk normally or even loudly at times.
-Children will be encouraged to eat their lunches, but whether they do or not is their decision. They are still required to at least take the correct food group components on their trays.
-Students will raise their hands to seek permission to leave their seats.
-About 3 minutes before the younger students' lunch ends and about 1 minute before the older students’ lunch ends, the lights will be turned off. During this time, students should finish lunch and clean up their spaces. They may talk quietly during this time.
-Younger students will be dismissed to line up to go outside as soon as their tables are cleaned up and everyone is finished. Older students will wait at their tables until their teachers appear to pick them up for class. Talking quietly during this time is permitted.
-Discipline in the lunchroom will follow the procedures set up in the school's discipline policy. Students that receive repeated warnings for mischievous behavior may have minor consequences-- i.e., loss of a few minutes of recess, a temporary assigned seat, or a short time out. Repeated warning for mischievous behavior can result in a call home to parents. Severe behavior results in an immediate office referral.
-Students that repeatedly have behavior problems in the lunchroom may be assigned seats on a temporary or permanent basis.
On the playground- Playground rules while we are at the Cherry Hill School are a work in progress. We will inform students about these rules before they begin to play outside there.
-Everyone is welcome to play any game on the playground. Make sure you understand the rules for the game. Tell newcomers to the game what the rules are. Students who will not play by the agreed upon rules will not be allowed to participate.
-If a particular game continually results in problems, it may not be allowed on the playground.
-If you feel yourself becoming upset, take a time-out from the game or activity. Talk to an adult about your feelings.
When there is snow on the playground-
-Snowballs or snow throwing is not allowed at any time.
-Feel free to build snowmen and other snow structures. Do not damage or break the snow creations of other students at any time. Remember that the public uses the school grounds after school. Sometimes snow structures may be damaged after the school hours. (Nothing lasts forever, you know.)
-Grades K - 3 students must wear snow pants and boots if they wish to play in the snow.
-Students in grades 4 and 5 need to wear boots if they wish to be in the snow.
SRES Discipline Plan-
Consequences for Misbehavior: Generally speaking, there are few discipline problems at SRES. The administration and the staff at SRES implemented a new system for dealing with disciplinary matters several years ago. This system has proven to be very effective for dealing with problem behaviors. Teachers handle most problems right in the classroom and quickly contact parents when there is a problem. Very few children are ever referred to the office, but if your child is, it is a matter of concern that we hope you will work with us on to avoid repeated problems.
The discipline system divides behavior into two categories-- mischievous and severe. Mischievous behavior includes what we think of as “fooling around”, inattentiveness, and minor disputes and/or teasing and put-downs. Severe behavior includes fighting, dangerous behavior, vandalism, overt defiance, and actions that stop the classroom from functioning. Bullying, which experts define as occurring “when a student or group of students targets an individual repeatedly over time, using physical or psychological aggression to dominate the victim” (Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory, 2001), is a severe infraction, as is harassment, which is also covered by procedures in the district’s policies.
Another aspect of the system is a method for tracking students’ behavior as they move through their school day. This allows teachers to be able to report to parents promptly any problems that may arise so that a proactive approach may be used to help the child behave appropriately. Teachers keep logs in which warnings given to students can be recorded and, when a staff member feels that the child may have difficulty elsewhere in the school, a yellow “tracking form” is used to record warnings that are given during specials, at lunch and recess, etc.
Procedures for Dealing With Mischievous Behavior - Mischievous behavior (“fooling around”, inattentiveness, and minor disputes and/or teasing and put downs) is dealt with first by the classroom teachers. There is a system for teachers to use in dealing with students who require repeated warnings for mischievous behavior over the course of a day. This includes:
1st incidence- Verbal warning
2nd- Verbal warning with minor consequence, for example, 2 minutes of recess missed
3rd- Verbal warning with slightly stronger consequence, for example, 5 minutes of recess missed
4th- Teacher calls parents
5th- Child is sent to principal or another teacher’s classroom for a time-out
6th- Office referral
Students that are having repeated warnings over a period of days or weeks may start the day at a higher level of warning. For example, starting at step 3, so that they receive one warning and then a call home to parents for the second incident.
As noted above, students that repeatedly need warnings for mischievous behavior are referred to the office. Once referred, there are procedures for dealing with this situation. The procedures are consistent, but have some flexibility built into them to meet the needs of the student and the particular instance. They include:
First instance-
1. Talk to principal.
2. Call home to parent.
3. Behavior card follows child for 1 day.
4. Loss of recess(es) and/or other appropriate consequences or restitution.
5. Time-out with principal at time of incident.
Second instance-
1. Talk to principal.
2. Call home to parent.
3. Behavior card follows child for 2 days.
4. Loss of recess(es) and/or other appropriate consequences or restitution.
5. Time-out with principal at time of incident.
Third instance-
See procedures for first incidence under severe behavior.
Procedures for Dealing With Severe Behaviors- Severe behavior results in an immediate referral to the office. Procedures are consistent in terms of consequences, with some flexibility built into the system to deal with each child’s particular circumstances and the seriousness of the behavior. Examples of the procedures for the first two office referrals are below:
First instance-
1. Talk to principal.
2. Call home to parent.
3. Behavior card follows child for up to 3 days.
4. Loss of recess(es) and/or other appropriate consequences or restitution.
5. Time-out with principal at time of incident.
6. Possible suspension from school, in-school or out.
Second instance-
1. Talk to principal.
2. Call home to parent.
3. Behavior card follows child for up to 5 days.
4. Loss of recess(es) and/or other appropriate consequences or restitution.
5. Time out with principal.
6. Possible in school or out of school suspension.
7. Referral to guidance counselor or other appropriate resources
Consequences become stricter with further referrals to the office.
Behavior cards are used by the school to monitor the actions of students whom have been experiencing behavioral problems and have been referred to the office. During the day, teachers and supervising staff initial the card in the appropriate spaces and record any warnings that have been given. While on the behavior card, the child has three warnings and a different set of consequences than the ones above if there are problems. These are specified on the card. At the end of the day, the card comes home with the child so the parent can see how the day went. We request that parents sign and return the card to school the next day.
ROCKINGHAM
SCHOOL BOARD
POLICY
MANUAL
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. Policy Maintenance
1. The Role of Policy
2. Policy Development and Adoption
3. Policy Dissemination, Administration & Review
B. Board Membership
1. Board Member Education
2. Board Goal-Setting and Self-Evaluation
3. Board Member Conflict of Interest
4. Code of Ethics for School Board Members
C. Board Procedures
1. Board Meeting Agenda Preparation and Distribution
2. Board Meetings
3. Public Participation at Board Meetings
4. School Visits by Board Members
5. Board Relations with School Personnel
6. Board Commitment to Non-Discrimination
D. Personnel
1. Personnel Recruitment, Selection, Appointment and Criminal Records Checks
2. Professional Development
3. Staffing and Job Descriptions
4. Educator Supervision and Evaluation: Probationary Teachers
5. Personnel Files
6. Substitute Teachers
7. Volunteers and Work Study Students
8. Alcohol and Drug Free Workplace
9. Resignations
10. Public Complaints About Personnel
11. Mandatory Drug & Alcohol Testing: Transportation Employees
12. Harassment of Employees
13. Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA)
E. Business and Non-Instructional Operations
1. Fiscal Management and General Financial Accountability
2. Budgeting
3. Financial Reports and Statements
4. Risk Management
5. Emergency Closings
6. Safety and Security of School Facilities
7. School Crisis Prevention & Response
8. Tobacco Prohibition
9. AIDS or HIV
F. Students
1. Student Conduct and Discipline
2. Bus Discipline
3. Search and Seizure
4. Interrogation or Searches of Students by Law Enforcement Officers or
Other Non-School Personnel
5. Student Records
6. Student Medication
7. Alcohol and Drug Abuse
8. Reporting Suspected Child Abuse or Neglect
9. Transportation
10. Student Activities (Elementary)
11. Student Clubs and Activities (Secondary)
12. Interscholastic Sports
13. Admission of Resident Students
14. Admission of Non-Resident Tuition Students
15. Student Publications
16. Tuition Payment
17. Head Lice
18. Eighteen Year-Old Students
19. Limited English Proficiency Students
20. Harassment of Students
21. Weapons
22. Student Assessment
23. Participation of Home Study Students In School Programs & Activities
24. Hazing
25. Student Attendance
26. Student Services: Federal and State Requirements
27. Pupil Privacy Rights: Student Survey
G. Instruction
1. Curriculum Development & Coordination
2. Copyrights
3. Field Trips
4. Selecting Library Materials
5. Selection of Instructional Materials
6. Complaints About Instructional Materials
7. Educational Support System
8. Local Action Plan
9. Grade Advancement: Retention, Promotion & Acceleration of Students
10. Special Education
11. Acceptable Use of Electronic Resources & The Internet
H. School-Community Relations
1. School Community Relations
2. Parental Involvement
3. Community Use of School Facilities
4. Public Solicitations/Advertising in Schools
5. Visits to School by Parents, Community Members, or Media;
Interviewing, Filming, Videotaping or Recording
6. Annual School Reports
CODE A1
THE ROLE OF POLICY
Policy
It is the intent of the Board to outline direction and goals for the successful consistent and efficient operation of the Rockingham schools through the adoption of policies.
Background
Policy development is the board's most important responsibility and is specified in 16 V.S.A.§563(1). Policies of the District will be in compliance with Vermont law and federal statutes as well as state and federal regulations. These policies will also reflect and be consistent with educational objectives, procedures, and practices that are generally accepted in the public education field.
Definitions
Policies describe the direction the Board, with input from its community, has outlined for the school District. They provide a guide for action by the administration. Policies should serve, also, to inform and guide all people interested in or connected with the School District.
Policies chart a course of action. They outline what is wanted; they may include why and how much and should always indicate the person responsible for implementing the policy. Policies should be broad enough to indicate a course of action for the administration to follow in meeting most situations; narrow enough to give clear guidance.
Procedures (also referred to as rules or regulations) are the specific directions that indicate exactly how school personnel and others will carry out the policies adopted by the School Board. Procedures should be developed by school administrators and may be reviewed by the board. They may change more frequently than the underlying policy and do not require adoption by the Board.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): 16 V.S.A. §563 (1) (Powers of school boards)
Cross Reference: Policy Development and Adoption (A2)
Policy Dissemination, Administration & Review (A3)
A1: Page 1 of 1
CODE A2
POLICY DEVELOPMENT AND ADOPTION
Policy
It is the policy of the Rockingham School District to adopt all policies in accordance with Vermont state law as outlined in 16 V.S.A. §563 (1).
Policy Initiation
Any person residing in or employed by the School District may suggest policies by providing a statement of need in writing to the Superintendent or Board clerk. Such suggestions will be considered by the Board and administrators to determine whether a policy is warranted to assure consistent and equitable school operations.
Policy Development
The Board, acting as a whole or through a policy committee, will seek appropriate public comment and administrative guidance as it considers proposals for policy development or revision.
Comment and information will be sought in the following areas:
1. The specific need for the policy.
2. The fiscal consequences of the proposed policy.
3. The effect of proposed policy on administrators, students, teaching staff and the community.
4. Samples of similar policies of other Boards.
5. Applicable provisions of state and federal law.
6. The anticipated costs and benefits of implementing, enforcing and evaluating the proposed policy.
Warnings
Policies will be adopted by the Board only after appropriate public notice and opportunity for public comment as outlined in state law.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): 16 V.S.A. §563 (1) (Powers of school boards)
Cross Reference: The Role of Policy (A1)
Policy Dissemination, Administration & Review (A3)
A2: Page 1 of 1
CODE A3
POLICY DISSEMINATION, ADMINISTRATION & REVIEW
Policy
It is the policy of the Rockingham School District to disseminate its policies broadly to all community members, to administer them fairly and to assure that there is regular periodic review of the District’s policies.
Dissemination
When policies are adopted, the Superintendent will publish and make them available to the public, students, and school personnel.
A copy of the District policy manual will be available during the normal working day in the office and/or library of each school within the District. The student handbook will include Board policies related to student activities and conduct. The teacher handbook will include Board policies related to teachers' responsibilities.
The Superintendent will develop other appropriate methods to familiarize and educate the school and general community about the District’s policies.
Administration
Policies will be administered through procedures and directives of the Superintendent of schools and members of the management team.
It will be the responsibility of employees and students to know and follow Board policy.
Policy Review
All policies will be reviewed periodically and, if necessary or appropriate, revised or repealed in response to changing legislation or other altered circumstances.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): 16 V.S.A. §563 (1) (Powers of school boards)
1 V.S.A. §316 (Access to records)
Cross Reference: The Role of Policy (A1)
Policy Development and Adoption (A2)
A3: Page 1 of 1
CODE B1
BOARD MEMBER EDUCATION
Policy
It is the policy of the Rockingham School District to encourage and support Board members’ efforts to remain knowledgeable about their roles and the issues with which they deal.
Implementation
Individual Board members will take advantage of opportunities to understand their roles; educational issues in general, school programs, State Department of Education functions and legislative activities. The Superintendent and Board Chair will be responsible for assuring that information on leadership development opportunities is available to all members. New members will participate in a district orientation session and other opportunities designed to familiarize themselves with all aspects of Board operation.
Members who take part in workshops and seminars offered by the Vermont School Boards Association and other organizations will be reimbursed for travel and other expenses related to participation in training activities provided prior approval is obtained from the Board, and funds for these purposes are available.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s):
Cross Reference: Board Goal_Setting & Evaluation (B2)
B1: Page 1 of 1
CODE B2
BOARD GOAL-SETTING & EVALUATION
Policy
The Board will participate in goal_setting and self_evaluation activities developed or recommended by the Superintendent at least annually.
Implementation
Particular attention will be given to Board goals and performance in the following areas:
Policy making
Policy implementation
Community relations
Board interpersonal communication skills
Board_Superintendent relations
Fiscal/budget management
The instructional program
Labor relations
Board in-service training
Government relations
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s):
Cross Reference: Board Member Education (B1)
B2: Page 1 of 1
CODE B3
(Mandatory)
BOARD MEMBER CONFLICT OF INTEREST
Policy
It is the ethical and legal duty of all School Board members to avoid conflicts of interest as well as the appearance of conflicts of interest.
Implementation
In order to comply with the obligations thus imposed, the Board and its members will adhere to the following recommended standards.
1. Board members will be familiar with the VSBA or similar Code of Ethics, and will observe their provisions.
2. Board members will be familiar with, and adhere to, those provisions of Vermont education law that define School Board powers and govern Board member compensation and public bidding processes.
3. A Board member will do nothing intended to give the false impression that he or she has the authority to make decisions or take action on behalf of the Board or the school administration.
4. A Board member will not take any action which is intended to give the impression that he or she would represent special interests or partisan politics for personal gain.
5. A Board member will not use his or her position on the Board in any manner intended to unfairly promote personal financial interests or the financial interests of family members, friends or supporters.
6. A Board member will not accept anything of value in return for taking particular positions on matters before the Board.
7. A Board member will do nothing intended to leave the impression that his or her position on any issue can be influenced by anything other than a fair presentation of all sides of the question.
Avoiding Conflicts
When a Board member becomes aware of involvement in a conflict of interest as defined in state law or this policy, he or she will declare the nature and extent of the conflict or appearance of conflict for inclusion in the Board minutes, and will abstain from voting or participating in the discussion of the issue giving rise to the conflict.
Complaints of Conflict of Interest
When a conflict of interest claim against a Board member is brought to the Board in writing and is signed by another Board member or a member of the public, and the Board member against whom the claim is made does not concur that a conflict in fact exists, the following Board procedures will be followed.
B3: Page 1 of 2
1. Upon a majority vote of the remaining Board members, or upon order of the chair, the Board will hold an informal hearing on the conflict of interest claim, giving both the Board member and the person bringing the claim an opportunity to be heard.
2. At the conclusion of the informal hearing, the remaining Board members will determine by majority vote to take one of the following actions:
A. Issue a public finding that the conflict of interest charge is not supported by the evidence and is therefore dismissed.
B. Issue a public finding that the conflict of interest charge is supported by the evidence and that the member should disqualify him or herself from voting or otherwise participating in the Board deliberations or decision related to that issue, as required by Vermont statute.
C. Issue a public finding that the conflict of interest charge is supported by the evidence and, in addition to disqualifying him or herself from voting or otherwise participating in the Board deliberations or decision, the Board member should be formally censured or subjected to such other action as may be allowed by law.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): 16 V.S.A. § 262(d) (Election of officers)
16 V.S.A. §557 (Gratuity/compensation prohibited)
16 V.S.A. §558 (Eligibility for election to school board)
16 V.S.A. §559 (Public bids)
16 V.S.A. §563(20) (Powers of school boards)
Cross Reference:
B3: Page 2 of 2
CODE B4
CODE OF ETHICS FOR SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS
A school board member has no legal powers or authority unless acting at a school board meeting or acting for the school board after it formally grants power to act on its behalf. A school board member should perform the duties of a school board member in a manner consistent with this Code of Ethics.
Board Governance
1. Attend all regularly scheduled board meetings, insofar as possible, and review study materials about the issues to be considered on each agenda.
2. Set goals for the school system and establish policies to direct its administration.
3. Maintain confidentiality of discussion conducted in executive session and of other privileged information.
4. Abide by board decisions regardless of how individuals voted.
5. Act only as a member of the board and do not assume authority as an individual in school matters when the board is not in session.
6. Be familiar with and observe Vermont education laws.
7. Listen to legal counsel and constructive criticism to protect the board and the school system from liability.
Board-Administration Relations
8. Give school officials authority commensurate with their responsibility, work through the properly appointed school officials according to the school system's organization and policies, and support school officials in the performance of their duties.
9. Expect the superintendent to keep the board adequately informed through regular written or oral reports and hold the superintendent accountable through an annual job performance evaluation.
10. Refer complaints, requests, and concerns to the superintendent or other appropriate staff member.
11. Use the chain of command and avoid making commitments or promises that compromise the board, administration or the school system.
12. Listen to the recommendations of the superintendent and staff before making decisions and provide advice and counsel to the superintendent.
13. Recognize that a board member’s responsibility is to see that schools are well run, but not to run them.
Board Member Relations
14. Retain independent judgment and refuse to surrender that judgment to individuals or special interest groups.
15. Voice opinions responsibly, maintain good relations with other board members, respect other board members' rights and opinions, and make no disparaging remarks, in or out of the board meeting, about other board members or school staff. Instead, express opinions in a professional, fair manner.
16. Accept the responsibility to secure facts before arriving at conclusions.
17. Expect more time to be spent on educational programs and procedures than on business details at board meetings.
B4: Page 1 of 2
Personnel Relations
18. Support employment of the best qualified people as school staff and insist on regular, impartial evaluation of all staff.
19. Hire no superintendent, principal or teacher already under contract with another school unless assurance is first secured from the proper authority that the person can be released from contract.
Community Relations
20. Represent the entire community and vote for what seems best for the children and youth of the school system.
21. Interpret the attitudes, wishes and needs of the community to school staff and communicate the aims, methods and goals of the schools to the community.
22. Create an environment that fosters community participation and involvement.
Conflict of Interest
23. Refrain from using board membership for political, personal or business advancement.
24. Recognize conflicts of interest and avoid being placed in a position of conflict of interest in hiring, letting bids, approving contracts and other financial affairs of the school system.
Board Preparation And Training
25. Be informed about educational issues by individual study and through participating in programs providing needed information, such as those sponsored by the Vermont and National School Boards Associations.
26. Take advantage of opportunities to improve your knowledge and to build your skills as locally elected members of school governing boards.
27. Associate with board members from other schools to discuss school problems and cooperate in the improvement of public school conditions.
28. Provide assistance to new school board members and make sure adequate orientation and training opportunities are offered them.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s):
Cross Reference:
B4: Page 2 of 2
CODE C1
BOARD MEETING AGENDA PREPARATION AND DISTRIBUTION
Policy
It is the policy of the Rockingham School District to assure that Board meeting agendas are developed and distributed in a way that allows open access to the process.
Agenda Preparation
The Superintendent will prepare all agendas for meetings of the Board after consultation with the Board Chair. Items of business may be suggested by any Board member, staff member, student, or citizen of the District. The inclusion of items will be at the discretion of the Board Chair and Superintendent, unless a majority of the Board votes to place an item on the Board’s agenda.
The agenda will include all items on which the Board will take action and any proposed executive sessions including the reasons for such sessions.
Agenda Distribution
The agenda, together with supporting materials, will be distributed to Board members by the Superintendent five days prior to regular meetings and as soon as practicable before special meetings.
Copies of the agenda will be available at meetings. Upon request, the press, school staff, students, community members and concerned persons will be provided with copies of the agenda in advance of regular or special meetings.
In all instances, the Superintendent and Board will adhere to the provisions of 1 V.S.A. §312 regarding notice and agenda distribution.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): 1 V.S.A. §§310 et seq. (Public meetings)
Cross Reference: Board Meetings (C2)
Public Participation at Board Meetings (C3)
C1: Page 1 of 1
CODE C2
BOARD MEETINGS
Policy
All Board meetings will be held in compliance with Vermont’s open meeting laws, 16 V.S.A. §§310 et seq.
Schedules
Regular School Board meetings will be held on the 1st and 3rd Mondays of each month in one of the districts three public schools starting at 7:00 P.M. The meeting schedule is posted in three public locations; U.S.Post Office, Municipal Office and the Central Office.
The usual order of business at regular meetings will be:
1. Call to order
2. Adjustments to the Agenda
3. Review and Approve Minutes
4. Communications and Public Comment
5. Reports:
6. Other Business/Action Items
7. Unfinished Business
8. Directors Comments
9. Date of Next Meeting
10. Appointments and/or resignations
11. Executive Session: (Action may follow)
12. Adjournment
Special and emergency meetings will be called by the Chair on his or her own initiative or when requested by a majority of the Board and warned appropriately. Only items on the agenda may be discussed at these meetings.
An agenda for each meeting will be prepared by the Superintendent after consultation with the Board Chair and in compliance with Board policy on agenda preparation.
Conduct of Board Meetings
Meetings will be conducted in accordance with Robert's Rules of Order, Newly Revised.
Executive Sessions
Executive sessions of the Board will be convened only for the purposes stated in 16 V.S.A. §313. Minutes of executive sessions will NOT be kept though notes may be taken if the Board determines that is necessary. Any notes taken will not be made public and Board members will not make public the confidential issues discussed during an executive session.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): 1 V.S.A. §§310 et seq. (Public meetings)
16 V.S.A. §554 (School board meetings)
Cross Reference: Board Meeting Agenda Preparation and Distribution (C1)
Public Participation at Board Meetings (C3)
C2: Page 1 of 1
CODE C3
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION AT BOARD MEETINGS
Policy
It is the policy of the Board to encourage public participation at its meetings.
Background
Public participation is very important to the successful function of the Rockingham School District. The Board wants to carry out its business with the benefit of public input and expertise. It also wants to keep the public informed and up-to-date on what is happening in the community’s schools.
Implementation
Reasonable rules of participation may be used to insure that meetings are conducted in an orderly fashion and that the business at hand is completed in a timely manner. Such rules may take into consideration such things as length of each speaker’s presentation and the number of times each speaker may comment.
Persons Who May Address the Board
1. Any District resident
2. School staff members, students and parents
3. Individuals who have been requested by the Superintendent or the Board to present a given subject
4. Persons who are directly affected by matters on the Board agenda
5. Others at the discretion of the Board
Public Comment on Agenda Items
1. The Chair will ask for comments on agenda items before action is taken by the Board.
2. When the number of people wishing to speak is large, the Board may authorize the Chair to use a speakers' list. Members of the public will be given an opportunity to sign the speakers' list, indicating which agenda item will be addressed.
Public input on items not on the agenda
1. There will be time set aside for public input on items not on the agenda at every regular, special or emergency meeting of the Board.
2. The time allotted to this item will be assigned by the Chair or the person responsible for organizing the agenda.
3. The Chair shall rule out of order any presentation to the Board which breaches the privacy or other rights of students, parents or school employees, or which does not comply with Board policy on complaints.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): 1 V.S.A. §§310 et seq. (Public meetings)
16 V.S.A. §554 (b) (School board meetings)
Cross Reference: Board Meetings (C2)
Board Meeting Agenda Preparation and Distribution (C1)
C3: Page 1 of 1
CODE C4
SCHOOL VISITS BY BOARD MEMBERS
Policy
It is the policy of the Rockingham School District to encourage School Board members to become familiar with their schools, its programs and the needs of its staff and students.
Implementation
Individual Board members may visit schools periodically to expand their knowledge of school programs and staff and student needs.
These visits should follow prior notification to the Principal. Concerns raised as a result of school visits by Board members should be directed to the Superintendent.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s):
Cross Reference:
C4: Page 1 of 1
CODE C5
BOARD RELATIONS WITH SCHOOL PERSONNEL
Policy
It is the policy of the Rockingham School District to encourage School Board interactions with school personnel while respecting appropriate reporting relationships.
At School Board Meetings
The Board will request the Superintendent to invite school personnel to School Board meetings regularly to discuss student achievement relative to their programs.
Relations with the Principal
Interaction between the Board and the Principal should take into account:
1. the responsibility of the Superintendent to direct the administration and coordination of educational programs in the District;
2. the periodic need of Board members for information most readily available from school Principals; and
3. the need to maintain a distinction between the administrative role of the Principal and the policy making role of the Board.
Relations with other School Staff
1. Individual Board members will communicate with staff members on matters of school business only at the direction of the Board as a whole.
2. Staff participation in the development of educational and personnel policies will be encouraged and facilitated by the Board
3. Board members will adhere to procedures required by Board policy and Vermont law related to collective bargaining and teacher evaluation.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): 16 V.S.A. §§1981 et seq. (Labor Relations)
16 V.S.A. §§1751 et seq. (Contracts, etc.)
16 V.S.A. §§243 et seq. (Principals)
21 V.S.A. §§1721 et seq. (Municipal Labor Act)
Cross Reference: Personnel: Recruitment, Selection, Appointment and Criminal Records Checks (D1)
Staff Development (D2)
C5: Page 1 of 1
CODE C6
BOARD COMMITMENT TO NON-DISCRIMINATION
Policy
The Board will not unlawfully discriminate against any person or group on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), ancestry, national origin, place of birth, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, or marital status
Notice of Non_Discrimination
Applicants for admission and employment, students, parents, employees, sources of referral of applicants for admission and employment, and all unions or professional organizations holding collective bargaining or professional agreements with the Rockingham School District are hereby notified that this District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), ancestry, national origin, place of birth, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, or marital status in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its programs and activities.
A person has been designated by the Rockingham School District to coordinate the District's efforts to comply with the regulations implementing Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and other non-discrimination laws or regulations. The designated coordinator is identified in the procedure accompanying this policy along with information on how that person may be contacted.
Any person having inquiries concerning the Rockingham School District's compliance with the regulations implementing Title VI, Title IX, Section 504 or other state or federal non-discrimination laws or regulations is directed to contact the non-discrimination coordinator described above.
Grievance Procedure
In the absence of a controlling grievance procedure outlined in a collective bargaining agreement the procedure accompanying this policy will be in effect.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): 9 V.S.A. §4502 (Public accommodations)
21 V.S.A. §§495 et seq. (Employment practices)
21 V.S.A. §1726 (Unfair labor practices)
20 U.S.C. §§1400 et seq. (IDEA)
20 U.S.C. §§1681 et seq. (Title IX, Education Amendments of 1972)
29 U.S.C. §206(d) (Equal Pay Act of 1963)
29 U.S.C. §§621 et seq. (Age Discrimination in Employment Act)
29 U.S.C. §794 (Section 504, Rehabilitation Act of 1973)
42 U.S.C.§§2000d et seq. (Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964)
42 U.S.C. §§12101 et seq. (Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990)
Cross Reference: Personnel: Recruitment, Selection, Appointment and Criminal Records Checks (D1)
C6: Page 1 of 1
CODE D1
PERSONNEL RECRUITMENT, SELECTION, APPOINTMENT AND
CRIMINAL RECORDS CHECKS
Policy
It is the policy of the Rockingham School District to select for employment only persons of good character who have the skills and other qualifications necessary to fulfill job requirements while complying with the provisions of state law regarding the recruitment, selection and employment of school district employees and contractors.
Definitions
Persons subject to criminal records checks under this policy include all those recommended for full-time, part-time or temporary employment in the School District, including student teachers, and those contractors and employees of contractors (unless otherwise exempt from such checks by law) who may have unsupervised contact with students.
Persons employed by a public or independent school as of July 1, 1998 shall not be subject to the criminal record check provisions unless they ceased to be employed by a Vermont public or independent school for a continuous period of one year or more after that date.
Recruitment
1. The Board is committed to securing the services of the best personnel available. Only individuals who meet applicable state licensing requirements will be employed.
2. The Board seeks minority applicants in accordance with its policy pertaining to non-discrimination (see C6). The District will attempt to provide an educational experience enhanced by the professional contributions of representatives of different races, physical conditions, sexes, ethnic backgrounds and age groups.
3. All instructional personnel will be recruited by the District's administrative staff under the immediate direction of the Superintendent.
4. Written or electronic applications will be required of candidates for employment. The application will include a statement to be signed by the candidate listing the dates, locations and dispositions of any convictions, including findings of guilt, pleas of nolo contendre or guilty, for criminal violations. The application will also include a warning to the applicant that falsification of information on the application or during the application process will be grounds for dismissal if the applicant is hired.
Selection
1. It is the policy of the Board to select employees solely on the basis of character, professional qualifications, and critical job requirements. Employees will be selected in a manner that does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, age, marital status, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion (creed), disability, ancestry or national origin. The use of seniority or years of experience as a selection criterion is permissible and does not constitute age discrimination.
D1: Page 1 of 3
2. The Superintendent shall require that all applicants, as a condition of employment consideration, cooperate fully with background investigations, supplying references and releases so the District can contact previous employers. Applicants the Superintendent is prepared to recommend for employment will be expected to provide fingerprints, releases and other information necessary to conduct criminal record background investigations. The costs of such checks will be borne by the prospective employee. All offers of employment will be conditioned upon completion of the background investigation and a finding that the information provided by the application during the pre-employment process was accurate, complete and truthful.
3. The Superintendent will request a criminal records check through the Vermont Crime Information Center (VCIC) on any candidate he or she is prepared to recommend for appointment. Requests will be made for fingerprint-supported criminal records from the FBI as well as criminal records from the state of Vermont and any state in which the Superintendent has reason to believe the applicant has resided or been employed. The Superintendent shall maintain such records in accordance with state law.
4. Employment conditioned on the completion of a background check may be terminated if it is determined that the employee failed to respond truthfully to questions about criminal activity or prior employment. In any event the Superintendent shall forward the information received from VCIC to the person about whom the request was made and inform the person of their rights to challenge the accuracy of the record and to determine the disposition of the record under 16 V.S.A. §§255(f), (g).
5. Providing a safe learning environment for students is a primary consideration in District employment decisions. The District will base such decisions on all relevant information, qualifications, and circumstances. Unfavorable background check information is not an automatic bar to employment, nor is a background check with no unfavorable information a guarantee of employment.
6. The Board will interview candidates for administrative positions.
Appointment
1. The appointment of licensed and non_licensed employees will be made by the Board upon the recommendation of the administration.
2. Contracts of employment or other notification of employment will be conditional pending receipt of criminal records check information and evaluation of that information.
Upon completion of a criminal records check, the Superintendent shall comply with the District’s
user agreement with VCIC.
3. Employees who have been employed for fewer than two years in Vermont public schools are considered probationary teachers and may be offered a probationary contract.
D1: Page 2 of 3
4. All offers of employment may be withdrawn based on the criminal records check report or upon a finding that the information provided by the applicant during the pre-employment process was inaccurate, incomplete or untruthful.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): 4 V.S.A. §1102(b)(8) (Unauthorized disclosure)
16 V.S.A. §§251 et seq. (Criminal records checks)
16 V.S.A. §563 (12) (Responsibility for hiring)
20 V.S.A. §§2062, 2063 (Fees)
20 V.S.A. §2056c (Dissemination of criminal history)
Cross Reference: Board Commitment to Non_Discrimination (C6)
Educator Supervision and Evaluation: Probationary Teachers (D4)
Personnel Files (D5)
D1: Page 3 of 3
CODE D2
(Mandatory)
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Policy
It is the policy of the Rockingham School District to support the important connection between educator professional development and improved student achievement and assure that professional and para-professional staff members broaden their knowledge and skills in order to contribute effectively to the achievement of the goals and strategies articulated by the school action plan.
Principles to Guide Professional Development
School priorities for professional development will be directly linked to student performance goals identified in the annual action plan. Professional development that increases educators’ knowledge of content, pedagogy, and creating effective learning environments will ultimately contribute to enhanced student performance.
The school will develop a professional development system that is characterized as follows:
1. its primary focus is on improved student learning and achievement
2. it is based on current, documented research findings
3. it provides structure and substance that allow continuity
4. it focuses on content and curricular needs as well as teaching methodology
5. it includes the needs of all who contribute to the education system
6. it is developed and directed by professional educators
Implementation
The Principal will develop a process to analyze student performance data, best-practices research, state and local standards compliance and the action plan priorities all of which provide input to the creation of annual and multi-year professional development programs.
A professional development committee composed of teachers and the administration will recommend a professional development plan that will contribute to the accomplishment of the District’s priorities.
After consultation with the professional development and action planning committees, the Superintendent will recommend to the School Board a needs-based professional development plan and yearly calendar. The Superintendent will make recommendations to ensure adequate financial resources and time for educators to participate in appropriate professional development experiences.
The administration will:
1. coordinate professional development activities with local and regional standards Boards to ensure that each professional educator’s Individual Professional Development Plan (IPDP) is, to the fullest extent practicable, aligned with the school’s action plan and professional development needs;
2. provide adequate opportunities to prepare educators to utilize assessment data for the purpose of increasing student achievement and to improve the overall effectiveness of the curriculum;
D2: Page 1 of 2
3. for new teachers, ensure that appropriate training in standards-based instruction be provided, implement a system of mentoring for professional staff during the first two years of employment and ensure, to the fullest extend practicable, that the new teacher works with the local and regional standards Boards to establishes an IPDP for the licensure period.
The administration will at least annually report to the School Board the effectiveness of staff professional development and the relationship to the student achievement goals identified within the annual action plan.
The School Board will negotiate employment contracts that place high priority on provisions that will support the District’s professional development system.
The District’s professional development system will be in effect no later than September 1, 2002.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): 1 V.S.A. §§ 310 et seq. (Open Meeting Law)
16 V.S.A. § 165 (a)(4) (Public School Quality Standards)
16 V.S.A. §§1981 et seq. (Labor relations - professional staff)
21 V.S.A. §§ 1721 et seq.(Labor relations)
16 V.S.A. §261a(5) (Duties of supervisory union boards)
Vermont State Board of Education Rules §§2120.4, 2120.5
Cross Reference: Board Member Education (B1)
Board Goal-Setting and Self-Evaluation (B2)
Educator Supervision & Evaluation (D4)
Fiscal Management and General Financial Accountability (E1)
Local Action Plan (G8)
D2: Page 2 of 2
CODE D3
STAFFING AND JOB DESCRIPTIONS
Policy
It is the policy of the Rockingham School District to provide the level of staffing needed to accomplish the school system's goals and objectives. All staff positions will be created by the Board and only the Board may abolish a position. Positions may remain unfilled.
Implementation
Each time a new position is established by the Board, the administration will present for approval a job description for the position that specifies the qualifications required for the position, performance responsibilities, evaluation criteria, terms of employment, and supervisor. Employee evaluation will be based substantially on criteria stated in approved job descriptions.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): 16 V.S.A. §563(12) (Powers of school boards)
Cross Reference: Personnel Recruitment, Selection, Appointment and Criminal Records Checks (D1)
Evaluation and Supervision of Staff (D4)
D3: Page 1 of 1
CODE D4
EDUCATOR SUPERVISION AND EVALUATION:
PROBATIONARY TEACHERS
Policy
It is the policy of the Rockingham School District to provide appropriate supervision and evaluation as a basis for improving the knowledge and skills of the school staff that will advance student achievement. Effective supervision and regular evaluation provide constructive feedback on teaching methods and materials enabling professional educators to improve their abilities to help all students achieve at high levels.
Implementation
The Superintendent will ensure that all those engaged in supervision and evaluation are appropriately trained to do so and have appropriate time allocated to carry out those responsibilities.
The administration will develop procedures for the supervision and evaluation of educators. The Principal, in collaboration with the Superintendent, will implement those procedures that will be consistent with the following recommended guidelines:
1. A job description will be developed for each professional educator’s position. Job descriptions will specify the required qualifications, performance responsibilities, general evaluation criteria, terms of employment and supervisor.
2. Performance goals set by the educator and his/her supervisor will be clearly articulated.
3. Evaluations will be based substantially on criteria set forth in approved job descriptions, articulated goals, and linked directly to the school’s needs to improve student performance as outlined in its action plan;
4. Educator evaluations will be carried out as administration determines and in compliance with contractural requirements.
5. In any case requiring discipline of a professional educator, applicable state law, due process procedures, and contractual requirements will be followed.
Principals will ensure that educator supervision and evaluation priorities are linked closely to the school’s current action plan.
Probationary Teachers
Teachers who have been employed for less than two school years in Vermont public schools are probationary teachers. The Principal will ensure that probationary teachers have intensive support, including the assignment of a mentor, regular supervision and at least two written evaluations each year during the two year probationary period. When the required evaluations have been carried out, the standard for non-renewal of a probationary teacher’s contract is any reason not prohibited by law, and the decision of the School Board is final in the absence of contrary provisions in the teacher’s contract. If the probationary teacher has not received at least two written performance evaluations per year of probationary service, the standard for non-renewable of contract is just and
sufficient cause.
The principal will ensure that all teachers in their first two years of teaching in a particular school will have regular supervision and at least two evaluations. Annual evaluations will be provided for all staff beyond the initial two-year period.
D4: Page 1 of 2
Administrators will use a variety of staff evaluation strategies based on current research that may include:
1. pre and post classroom visitation conferences;
2. announced and unannounced classroom observations;
3. educator performance feedback from students and parents which will not be included in the educator’s personnel file;
4. formative and summative evaluation reports.
On the basis of evaluations carried out in accordance with this policy, the Principal will collaborate with the Superintendent to identify educators in need of intensive support or other special attention.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): 16 V.S.A. § 165 (Public School Quality Standards)
16 V.S.A. § 563 (12) (Powers of school boards)
16 V.S.A. § 1752 (Suspension and dismissal)
16 V.S.A. §§1981 et seq. (Labor relations - professional staff)
21 V.S.A. §§1721 et seq. (Labor relations)
Vermont State Board of Education Rules §§2120.4, 2120.5
Cross Reference: Board Member Education (B1)
Board Goal-Setting and Self-Evaluation (B2)
Staffing and Job Descriptions (D3)
Personnel Files (D5)
Board Relations With School Personnel (C5)
Professional Development (D2)
Budgeting (E2)
Local Action Plan (G8)
Annual School Report (H6)
D4: Page 2 of 2
CODE D5
PERSONNEL FILES
Policy
It is the policy of the Rockingham School District to develop and maintain complete and secure personnel files that accurately reflect the experience and service of each staff member employed by the District.
Administrative Responsibilities
1. General Information: The Superintendent will maintain a personnel file for each employee of the District and, unless otherwise provided by master contract, its contents will be confidential and will be released only as required by law or after written waiver by the employee.
Information which could be detrimental to an employee's job security will not become a part of an employee's file until the employee has examined same and been given an opportunity to append a response.
2. Criminal Record Check Information: At the time of employment, a copy of the Superintendent's request for a criminal records check by the Vermont Criminal Information Center and a copy of the Center's response will be placed in a file developed for that purpose. Criminal history logs, processed release forms and criminal record information will be maintained for the retention period specified in the District’s user agreement with the Vermont Criminal Information Center.
3. After the specified retention period, the record information and logs will be maintained or destroyed as follows:
A. If the person who is the subject of the background check authorizes maintenance of the information, and the information is a notice of no criminal record, the information will be securely maintained by the School District indefinitely;
B. If the person who is the subject of the background check authorizes maintenance, and the information is a criminal record or notice of the existence of a criminal record, the information will be sent by the Superintendent to the Commissioner of Education for secure maintenance in the central records repository;
C. If the person who is the subject of the background check does not authorize maintenance of the information, the Superintendent shall destroy the information in accordance with the user agreement.
Employees’ Rights And Responsibilities
An employee may examine his or her own personnel file by appointment with an appropriate administrator. Materials obtained prior to the employment of the individual, including confidential placement papers may not be available to employees.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): 1 V.S.A. §317 (c)(7) (Public records)
16 V.S.A. §§251 et seq. (Criminal records checks)
Cross Reference: Evaluation and Supervision of Staff (D4)
Personnel: Recruitment, Selection, Appointment (D1)
D5: Page 1 of 1
CODE D6 (Mandatory)
SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS
Policy
It is the policy of the Rockingham School District to employ substitute educators who will meet the minimum qualifications outlined by State Board of Education Rules.
Qualifications
No person will be placed on the qualified substitute list unless that person has graduated from high school and meets additional minimal requirements:
___________________________________________________________________________
Unlicensed Persons
An unlicensed person may be employed as a substitute teacher for up to fifteen consecutive days per educator absence. The Commissioner of Education may grant an extension for an additional fifteen days upon application by the Superintendent when evidence of the unavailability of a licensed educator or other compelling reasons have been presented. The Superintendent may apply for additional extensions, or when appropriate, seek a waiver pursuant to Section 5350 of the State Board of Education Rules.
Licensed Educators
Substitute teachers who are licensed but not appropriately endorsed for the position they are employed in or are asked to fill a position for more than thirty days per teacher absence only when the
Superintendent secures an extension allowing such employment from the Commissioner of Education after providing evidence of the unavailability of a licensed educator with appropriate endorsement or other compelling reasons. The Superintendent may apply for additional extensions, or when appropriate, seek a waiver pursuant to Section 5350 of the State Board of Education Rules.
Administrative Responsibilities
A list of qualified substitute teachers will be developed by the Principal or his/her designee.
The Principal or his/her designee will conduct an orientation session for substitute teachers each year. Each teacher under contract will compile a packet of information containing pertinent substitute teacher information as defined by the Principal.
The search for a licensed educator should continue through any extension.
Substitute teachers will be paid per diem wages as determined by the Superintendent from year to year. Distinctions in pay level may be made based on the guidelines developed for that purpose.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): Vt. State Board of Education Manual of Rules & Practices §§5350, 5510, 5520
16 V.S.A. §558 (Employment of school board members)
Cross Reference: Personnel: Recruitment, Selection, Appointment and Criminal Records Checks (D1)
D6: Page 1 of 1
CODE D7
(Mandatory)
VOLUNTEERS AND WORK STUDY STUDENTS
Policy
The Rockingham School District recognizes the valuable contributions made to the schools by volunteers and work-study students. It further recognizes that appropriate supervision of volunteers and work-study students will enhance their contributions as well as fulfill the responsibility that the School District has for the education and safety of its students.
Definitions
1. Volunteer: A volunteer is an individual not employed by the School District who works on an occasional or regular basis in the school setting to assist the staff. A volunteer works without compensation or economic benefits.
2. Work Study Student: A work-study student receives compensation for work performed at the school as part of a college work experience program. For purposes of this policy, an intern, working without pay, will be considered as a work-study student. A student working toward a teaching credential who may be placed at a school as a student teacher is not a work-study student.
Administrative Responsibilities
1. Recruitment: The Principal is authorized to recruit and approve volunteers and work study students to work in the school. It is the Principal's responsibility to be reasonably sure that the volunteer or work-study student is a person of good character with the ability to make significant contributions to the school. The Principal may require volunteers and work-study students to complete information forms providing background information including, but not limited to whether the individual is currently a defendant in a criminal proceeding, the dates, locations and dispositions of any convictions, including findings of guilt, pleas of guilty, or nolo contendere, for criminal violations. A person who fails to
provide full and accurate background information in response to the Principal's request will not be permitted to work with students.
If the position for which a volunteer is being recruited involves regular unsupervised contact with students, the Principal will carry out a criminal records check on the final candidate in accordance with the District’s employment policy (D1). The District will not pay the fees associated with criminal records checks.
2. Placement: Placement and replacement of volunteers and work-study students will be made by the Principal or the Principal's designee.
3. Conditions of Work: Volunteers and work-study students will be informed by the Principal of the extent to which School District insurance policies protect them from personal liability resulting from claims against them based on negligence or other injurious conduct while acting in a volunteer or work-study capacity.
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4. Supervision: Generally, volunteers and work-study students who work directly with students will be under the immediate supervision of a licensed professional employee and will not have unsupervised contact with students, except when that contact is of short duration and necessary in the context of activities planned by and under the direction of professional school staff or contractors employed by the school.
5. Policies and Procedures: The Principal will assure that all volunteers and work study students are familiar of the School District’s Policies and procedures.
Responsibilities of Volunteers and Work Study Students
1. Volunteers and work-study students are responsible for complying with school policies, rules and procedures.
2. Volunteers and work-study students will be considered staff members for purposes of compliance with the state and federal harassment statutes.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal References: 4 V.S.A. §1102(b)(8) - (Unauthorized disclosure)
16 V.S.A. §565 (Harassment & hazing prevention)
16 V.S.A.§ 260 (Supervision policy requirement)
20 V.S.A.§§2062, 2063 (Fees)
20 V.S.A.§2056c - (Disseminating of criminal history)
21 V.S.A. §495 (Employment discrimination)
20 U.S.C. §§1681 et seq. (Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972)
34 C.F.R. Part 106 (Nondiscrimination on the basis of sex in education programs
or activities receiving federal financial assistance )
42 U.S.C. §§2000e et seq. (Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964)
29 C.F.R. 1604.11 (Equal Employment Opportunities Commission)
42 U.S.C. §5119a - (Child Protection Act)
Cross References: Harassment of Students (F20)
Harassment of Employees (D12)
Personnel: Recruitment, Selection, Appointment & Criminal Records (D1)
D7: Page 2 of 2
CODE D8
(Mandatory)
ALCOHOL AND DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE
Policy
It is the policy of the Rockingham School District to maintain a workplace free of alcohol and drugs. No employee will unlawfully manufacture, distribute, dispense, possess or use alcohol or any drug on or in the workplace.
Definitions
Drug means any narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana or any other controlled substance as defined by state or federal statute or regulation.
Workplace means the site for the performance of work for the School District, including any school building or any school premises and any school_owned vehicle or any other school_approved vehicle used to transport students to and from school or school activities. It also includes off school property during any school_sponsored or school_approved activity, event or function such as a field trip or athletic event, where students are under the jurisdiction of the School District.
Employee Responsibilities
As a condition of employment, each employee will notify the Superintendent in writing of his or her conviction of any criminal drug statute for a violation occurring on or in the workplace as defined above. The employee must notify the Superintendent no later than five days after such conviction. Entry of a nolo contendere plea shall constitute a conviction for purposes of this policy, as will any judicial finding of guilt or imposition of sentence. Within 10 days of notification from an employee, or receipt of actual notice of an alcohol or drug conviction, the Superintendent will notify any federal or state officers or agencies legally entitled to such notification.
As a condition of employment, each employee must abide by the terms of the School District policy respecting an alcohol and drug free workplace.
An employee who violates the terms of this policy may be asked to satisfactorily complete an alcohol or drug abuse assistance or rehabilitation program approved by the Board. In addition, an employee who violates the terms of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action, including but not limited to non-renewal, suspension or termination at the discretion of the Board.
Administrative Responsibilities
The Board will take action in accordance with the District’s policies and procedures as well as applicable state and federal law.
The Superintendent will establish an alcohol and drug_free awareness program in the District to include information on the dangers of drug abuse in the workplace, the District's policy on an alcohol and drug_free workplace and any alcohol or drug counseling available to employees as well as any available rehabilitation and employee assistance programs.
D8: Page 1 of 2
A copy of this policy will be given by the Superintendent or his/her designee to each District employee.
The Superintendent or his/her designee will conduct a biennial review of the District's student and employee drug prevention programs as required by the Safe and Drug_Free Schools and Communities Act of 1994. The review will determine the effectiveness of the prevention programs and the consistency of the enforcement of disciplinary sanctions. Following each review, required changes will be implemented.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): 21 U.S.C. §§1521 et seq. (Drug-Free Communities Act)
20 U.S.C. §§7101 et seq. (Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of 1994)
21 C.F.R. §§1308.11 through 1308.15
21 V.S.A. §517 (Employer’s Authority)
Cross Reference:
D8: Page 2 of 2
CODE D9
RESIGNATIONS
Policy
It is the policy of the Rockingham School District to consider employee resignations in a manner that is timely and fair to both the employee and the School District.
Implementation
A resignation by a licensed employee who is under contract to the school should be submitted to the Superintendent. The resignation of a licensed employee will take effect on a date approved by the School Board after receiving the recommendation of the Superintendent.
A resignation by an unlicensed employee shall be submitted to the Superintendent and shall be effective upon acceptance by the Superintendent.
A resignation by a licensed or unlicensed employee may not be withdrawn unilaterally by the employee once it has been submitted to the Superintendent.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s):
Cross Reference:
D9: Page 1 of 1
CODE D10
PUBLIC COMPLAINTS ABOUT PERSONNEL
Policy
It is the policy of the Rockingham School District to see that complaints about school personnel are considered in a timely manner that is fair to all parties. The District places trust in its employees and desires to support their actions in such a manner that employees are freed from unnecessary, spiteful, or unjustified criticism or complaints.
Resolving Complaints
The complainant shall be encouraged first to bring a complaint to the individual concerned. If the problem cannot be resolved with the individual concerned, it should be brought to the attention of the immediate supervisor or administrator. The complaint should be in writing stating the issues and supporting facts. The individual employee involved shall be given every opportunity for explanation, comment, and presentation of the facts as he/she sees them.
If the issue is not resolved by involvement of the immediate supervisor, the complainant may refer the issue to the Principal for his/her review and decision. In the event the Principal’s review does not lead to a satisfactory resolution, the complainant may submit the issue to the Superintendent for review and decision.
In cases of alleged discrimination, the complainant should follow the procedures accompanying anti-discrimination policy (C6).
Appeal to the Board
If the above steps do not resolve the concern of the complainant, he/she may request a session of the Board for the purpose of reviewing the Superintendent's decision. If the School Board decides to hear the request of the complainant, it shall invite all parties involved including the appropriate school and supervisory union administrators to attend a meeting for purposes of presenting facts, making further explanations, and clarifying the issue. The Board shall conduct such meetings in a fair and just manner and shall render a decision.
It is the intent of the Board that the rights of employees under collective bargaining agreements and Vermont law be protected through the administration of this policy.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): 16 V.S.A. §1752 (Suspension, dismissal)
1 V.S.A. §§310 et seq. (Open meetings)
Cross Reference(s): Board Commitment to Non-discrimination (C6)
D10: Page 1 of 1
CODE D11
(Mandatory)
MANDATORY DRUG & ALCOHOL TESTING:
TRANSPORTATION EMPLOYEES
Policy
The School District will comply with the Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act of 1991.
Administrative Responsibilities
The Superintendent or his/her designee will implement procedures to conduct alcohol and drug tests for all safety sensitive transportation employees as required by the Testing Act.
Specific Categories of Employees Subject to Testing
This policy applies to safety sensitive employees. Safety sensitive employees are those who hold commercial drivers' licenses or who operate vehicles that may only be operated by holders of commercial drivers' licenses, or those who perform safety sensitive functions as defined in federal regulations.
Why an Employee Will be Tested
Employees will be tested for five prohibited drugs: marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and phencyclidine. Tests will also be conducted for specific prohibited alcohol related conduct while performing in safety sensitive functions as required by federal regulations. Federal regulations presently prohibit the performance of safety sensitive functions while having an alcohol concentration of 0.04 or greater as indicated by an alcohol breath test, while using alcohol, or within four hours after using alcohol. The performance of driving functions is prohibited within 24 hours of a test showing alcohol concentrations between 0.02 and 0.04.
When an Employee Will be Tested
Employees will be tested as follows:
1. Pre-employment tests will be conducted before applicants are hired or after an offer to hire, but before actually performing safety-sensitive functions for the first time. Employees will also be tested when transferring from a non-safety sensitive position to a safety-sensitive position.
2. Post-accident tests will be conducted after accidents (as defined by federal regulation) on employees whose performance could have contributed to the accident.
3. Reasonable suspicion tests will be conducted when a trained supervisor observes behavior or appearance that is characteristic of alcohol misuse or prohibited drug use.
4. Random tests will be conducted on an unannounced basis just before, during or just after performance of safety sensitive functions.
5. Return to duty and follow-up tests will be conducted when an individual who has violated prohibited alcohol or drug conduct standards returns to performing safety sensitive duties. Follow-up tests will be unannounced and at least 6 tests will be conducted in the first 12 months after an employee returns to duty. Follow-up testing may be extended for up to 60 months following return to duty.
Refusal to Take Tests
Refusal to submit to testing as required by this policy will constitute a verified drug or alcohol test result. An employee who refuses a required test will be subject to the same sanctions as an employee who tests positively for drug or alcohol misuse.
D11: Page 1 of 2
Consequences of Alcohol Misuse
Employees who engage in prohibited alcohol conduct will, at a minimum, be immediately removed from safety sensitive functions. Employees who have engaged in alcohol misuse will not be returned to safety sensitive duties until they have been evaluated by a substance abuse professional designated by the District and have complied with any treatment recommendations to assist them with an alcohol problem. In addition, employees who engage in prohibited alcohol conduct may be subject to further disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal.
Consequences of Drug Use
Employees who test positively for drug use will, at a minimum, be immediately removed from safety sensitive duty when a physician designated as the District's Medical Review Officer has interviewed the employee and determined that the positive drug test resulted from the unauthorized use of a controlled substance. If the positive test result is determined by the Medical Review Officer to be caused by the authorized use of a controlled substance, the employee will not be removed from the safety sensitive position. An employee will not be returned to safety sensitive duties until he/she has been evaluated by a substance abuse professional designated by the District or a Medical Review Officer, has complied with rehabilitation recommendations, and has a negative result on a return to duty test. Follow-up
testing will be conducted to monitor the returned employee's continued abstinence from drug use. In addition, employees who engage in the unauthorized use of controlled substances may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal.
Employee Education Programs
The Superintendent or his or her designee will provide information and educational materials to safety sensitive employees and supervisors of safety sensitive employees on the consequences of drug and alcohol abuse and treatment resources in accord with the requirements of the Testing Act. At a minimum, supervisors of safety sensitive employees will annually be required to attend at least one hour of training on the signs and symptoms of drug use and an additional hour on the signs and symptoms of alcohol abuse.
Rehabilitation and Treatment Programs
Unless otherwise agreed through collective bargaining with employees, the District will not pay for the rehabilitation and treatment of any employee who has tested positive for drug or alcohol use, whether or not such rehabilitation and treatment is made a precondition of that employee's continued employment or return to a safety sensitive position.
Cost of Testing
Unless otherwise agreed through collective bargaining with employees, the District will not pay for tests required by the Testing Act or this policy.
Dissemination of Policy Procedures
Each employee covered by this policy, and a representative of a recognized local employee organization designated by an employee, will be provided with written notice of the District's anti-drug and anti-alcohol policies and procedures.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): 49 U.S.C. §§ 5331, 31306 (Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act of 1991)
49 C.F.R. Parts 40, 382, 391, 392, 395 and 653
Cross Reference:
D11: Page 2 of 2
CODE D12
(Mandatory)
HARASSMENT OF EMPLOYEES
Policy
The Rockingham School District is committed to providing all employees a safe and supportive work environment in which all members of the school community are treated with respect. Harassment is a form of unlawful discrimination as well as disrespectful behavior, which will not be tolerated.
The Rockingham School District shall provide employees a work environment free of unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct, or communications constituting harassment as defined and otherwise prohibited by state and federal law.
Definitions
1. Adverse Action: Includes any form of intimidation, reprisal or harassment such as diminishment of grades, suspension, expulsion, change in educational conditions, loss of privileges or benefits or other unwarranted disciplinary action in the case of students and includes any form of intimidation, reprisal or harassment such as suspension, termination, change in working conditions, loss of privileges or benefits or other disciplinary action in the case of employees.
2. Employee: For purposes of this policy, an employee includes any person employed directly or through a contract with another company by the School District, agents of the school, School Board members and any student teacher, intern, school volunteer or work study student.
3. Harassment: Harassment means unlawful harassment and constitutes a form of discrimination. It is verbal or physical conduct based on an employee’s race, religion (creed), color, national origin, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, age, ancestry, place of birth or disability which has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an employee’s work or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment.
4. School Community: Includes but is not limited to all students, school employees, contractors, unpaid volunteers, work study students, interns, student teachers, and visitors.
5. Sexual Harassment: Is a form of sex discrimination and means unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:
A. Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual's employment; or
B. Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as a component of the basis for employment decisions affecting such individual; or
C. Such conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an individual's work performance or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive working environment.
D12: Page 1 of 4
Examples
Harassment can include any unwelcome verbal, written or physical conduct which offends, denigrates, or belittles an individual because of an employee’s race, creed (religion), color, national origin, marital
status, sex, sexual orientation, age, ancestry or disability. Such conduct includes, but is not limited to, unsolicited derogatory remarks, jokes, demeaning comments or behavior, slurs, mimicking, name calling, graffiti, innuendo, gestures, physical contact, stalking, threatening, bullying, extorting or the display or circulation of written materials or pictures.
Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment may include, but is not limited to, unwelcome touching, crude jokes or pictures, discussions of sexual experiences, teasing related to sexual characteristics, pressure for sexual activity whether written, verbal or through physical gestures, display or sending of pornographic pictures or objects, obscene graffiti, and spreading rumors related to a person's alleged sexual activities.
Racial and Color Harassment
Racial or color harassment can include unwelcome verbal, written or physical conduct directed at the characteristics of a person’s race or color such as nicknames emphasizing stereotypes, racial slurs, comments on manner of speaking, and negative references to racial customs.
Religious or Creed Harassment
Harassment on the basis of religion or creed includes unwelcome verbal, written or physical conduct directed at the characteristics of a person’s religion or creed such as derogatory comments regarding surnames, religious tradition, or religious clothing, or religious slurs or graffiti.
National Origin Harassment
Harassment on the basis of national origin includes unwelcome verbal, written or physical conduct directed at the characteristics of a person’s national origin such as negative comments regarding surnames, manner of speaking, customs, language or ethnic slurs.
Marital Status Harassment
Harassment on the basis of marital status includes unwelcome verbal, written or physical conduct directed at the characteristics of a person’s marital status, such as comments regarding pregnancy or being an unwed mother or father.
Sexual Orientation Harassment
Harassment on the basis of sexual orientation includes unwelcome verbal, written or physical conduct directed at the characteristics of a person’s sexual orientation such as negative name-calling and imitating mannerisms.
Disability Harassment
Harassment on the basis of a person’s disabling mental or physical condition includes any unwelcome verbal, written or physical conduct directed at the characteristics of a person’s disabling condition such as imitating manner of speech or movement, or interference with necessary equipment.
Harassment includes, but is not limited to, examples cited in this policy.
D12: Page 2 of 4
Reporting
1. Mandatory: It is the express policy of the Rockingham School District to encourage employee targets of harassment and employees who have first-hand knowledge of such harassment to report such claims. Employees who witness or are targets of harassment shall report the incident(s) immediately to their immediate supervisor or another administrator who is not the subject of the complaint as may be appropriate under the circumstances.
Targets of harassment should directly inform the person engaging in the harassing conduct or communication that such conduct or communication is offensive and must stop.
2. Privacy: Complaints will be kept confidential to the extent possible given the need to investigate and act on investigative results.
3. Retaliation: There will be no adverse action taken against a person for making a complaint of harassment when the complainant honestly believes harassment has occurred or is occurring, or for participating in or cooperating with an investigation. Any individual who retaliates against any employee or student who reports, testifies, assists or participates in an investigation or hearing relating to a harassment complaint will be subject to discipline by the School District.
Administrative Responsibility and Action
1. Reporting: An employee who receives a complaint of harassment shall promptly inform the Principal (or designee) or another administrator who is not the subject of the complaint.
2. Investigation: The School District is responsible for acting on any information regarding harassment of which it is aware. The Superintendent shall provide for a thorough, prompt investigation of the incident; the investigation and written report shall be completed in a timely fashion in accordance with school procedures after a report or complaint, formal or informal, written or oral, has been received. No person who is the subject of a complaint shall conduct such an investigation.
3. Final Action on Complaint: The School District shall take disciplinary or remedial action as appropriate in order to ensure that further harassment does not occur. Such action may include, but is not limited to, education, training, counseling, transfer, suspension and/or expulsion of a student and education, training, counseling, transfer, suspension and/or termination of an employee.
4. False Complaint: Any person who knowingly makes a false accusation regarding harassment will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including discharge of employees, or suspension and expulsion of students.
5. Appeal: A person judged to be in violation of this policy and subjected to action under it may appeal the determination and/or the action taken in accordance with procedures adopted under this policy. The procedures shall be consistent with the provisions of any applicable collective bargaining agreement.
D12: Page 3 of 4
6. Dissemination: The Superintendent shall use all reasonable means to inform students, employees, and the community that the District will not tolerate harassment. A copy of this policy shall be provided to students, staff and parents each year and shall be included in the appropriate materials that are disseminated to the school and community.
7. Training: The Superintendent shall develop age-appropriate methods of discussing the meaning and substance of this policy with staff and students in order to help prevent harassment. Training may be implemented in the context of employee professional development and the school curriculum to develop broad awareness and understanding among all members of the school community.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal References: 9 V.S.A. §§4502 et seq. (Public accommodations)
16 V.S.A. 11(a)(26) (Definitions)
21 V.S.A. §§495 et seq. (Unlawful employment practice, sexual harassment)
42 U.S.C. §§2000e et seq. (Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964)
29 C.F.R. 1604.11 (Equal Opportunity Employment Commission)
Cross Reference: Harassment of Students (F20)
Board Commitment to Non-Discrimination (C6)
D12: Page 4 of 4
CODE D13
(Mandatory)
HEALTH INSURANCE PORTABILITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT COMPLIANCE
The Rockingham School District shall comply with the requirements of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) with regard to any employee benefit or group health plan provided by the district that is subject to the requirements of the Act. The superintendent or his or her designee shall develop and implement procedures necessary to ensure continuing compliance with the requirements of HIPAA.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal References: 42 U.S.C. 1320d-2 and 1320d-4
45 C.F.R. Subpart C
D13: Page 1 of 1
CODE E1
FISCAL MANAGEMENT AND GENERAL FINANCIAL ACCOUNTABILITY
Policy
It is the policy of the Rockingham School District to manage its financial affairs in a fair and open manner using acceptable financial practices and providing appropriate accountability.
Administrative Responsibilities
With the advice and consent of the Auditor of Accounts and the Commissioner of Education, the Superintendent shall establish and maintain an accrual system of accounting for the proper control and reporting of school district finances and for stating the financial condition of the School District.
Guidelines
1. The approved budget will be the spending plan for the year. The Superintendent or his or her designee is authorized to make commitments in accordance with the budget appropriations in amounts not to exceed $10,000.00. For expenditures in excess of that amount, or expenditures of over $1,000 not planned for in the budget, approval for purchases must be made by the Board.
2. The Superintendent shall have authority to transfer funds for planned expenses between two line items in the budget up to an amount not to exceed the over-all approved budget.
3. The Superintendent shall arrange all required audit of accounts by a certified public accountant.
4. Employees handling large sums of money will be properly bonded.
5. Inventories of supplies, materials and instructional equipment will be maintained and reviewed on an annual basis.
6. The bidding requirements of 16 V.S.A. §559 will be followed by the Board and its designees.
7. A system will be established for managing miscellaneous accounts such as fees, fines, penalties, book losses, breakage and sale of equipment and materials.
8. At the school level, the Principal will be responsible for overseeing all student accounts.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): 16 V.S.A. §563 (3) (Powers of school boards)
16 V.S.A. §559 (Public bidding)
24 V.S.A. §832 (Bonding requirements)
16 V.S.A. §1756 (Indemnity and insurance)
Vt. State Board of Education Manual of Rules & Practices §3250
Cross Reference: Budgeting (E2)
Financial Reports and Statements (E3)
E1: Page 1 of 1
CODE E2
BUDGETING
Policy
The budget is a policy document that reflects the goals of the School District. It is the policy of the Rockingham School District to develop school budget(s) that reflect the District’s goals in improving student achievement as outlined in its strategic and annual action plans and to ensure responsiveness to community needs.
Administrative Responsibility
Approval
The Board will, after public hearings and/or informational meetings adopt a budget for consideration by the District’s voters. The budget will be presented by the Board for approval by the voters at the annual meeting of the District. Preparation of the Board's budget presentation and other Board strategies for explaining and supporting its budget will be a formal agenda item at a meeting of the Board prior to the annual district meeting.
Presentation
The Board will adopt a budget presentation format that may include the following:
· reviews the accomplishments of the prior year with regard to student performance and budgetary effectiveness in addressing increased student performance;
· clarifies budget priorities linked to student achievement adopted by the Board during the budget preparation process;
· emphasizes cost_saving measures taken by the Board during the current budget period;
· indicates anticipated amounts and sources of revenue from sources other than local taxation;
· compares costs and budget increases or decreases for specific programs over a period of time;
· clearly indicates such key budgetary factors as cost per pupil, student_teacher ratios, tax rate, and state aid computations;
· allows ample time for questions from voters;
· explains in a clear way the relationship between the budget and the amount of taxes to be raised;
· explains the relationship of the needed tax rate and the tax bills that individuals will receive using information developed by the State Department of Education.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): 16 V.S.A. §563 (Powers of boards)
16 V.S.A. §165 (a)(1) (Action plans)
Cross Reference: Fiscal Management and Financial Accountability (E1)
Financial Reports and Statements (E3)
E2: Page 1 of 1
CODE E3
FINANCIAL REPORTS AND STATEMENTS
Policy
It is the policy of the Rockingham School District to create financial reports and statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting practices that will allow the administration to demonstrate accountability while providing the Board with needed information.
Administrative Responsibilities
The Business Manager shall be responsible for submitting financial reports for all funds to the Board.
The Business Managers report shall be made quarterly and include:
1. Cash on hand at the beginning of the quarter
2. Receipts by service
3. Disbursements during the quarter
4. Cash balance on hand at the end of the quarter
5. Reconciliation with bank statements
A financial report will be prepared monthly and includes:
1. Appropriation Accounts
A. Original appropriation
B. Authorized transfers and adjustments
C. Revised appropriations
D. Expenditures to date
E.. Outstanding encumbrances
F. Unencumbered balance
2. Revenue Accounts
A. Estimated revenues
B. Amounts received to date
C. Revenues estimated to be received during the balance of the fiscal year
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): 16 V.S.A. §563 (Powers of school boards)
Cross Reference: Fiscal Management and Financial Accountability (E1)
Budgeting (E2)
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CODE E4
RISK MANAGEMENT
Policy
It is the policy of the Rockingham School District to minimize risk to the School District as it discharges its responsibility for properly managing the resources of the school system. This responsibility includes concern for the safety of students, employees and the public, as well as concern for protecting the system's property from loss. No new program, policy or procedure will be adopted or approved by the Board without first giving careful consideration to the school system's risk exposure.
Implementation
The Superintendent or his designee shall be responsible for establishing a risk management and insurance program covering all property and program risks related to the performance of the educational and service missions of the system. This risk management and insurance program shall include means for identifying, eliminating, reducing, retaining or transferring risk. Only when a particular risk cannot be eliminated or feasibly retained by the system shall it be transferred by the purchase of insurance.
The Board realizes that the assumption of some predictable risks is the most economically feasible method of treating certain exposures. When it is in the apparent best interest of the system, the Board may budget for and retain limited and predictable risks of financial loss, through the use of contingency funds, deductibles, or other strategies.
Insurance shall be purchased on the basis of service offered by the insurer, the reliability and financial stability of the insurer, and price of the insurance as competitively determined in accordance with 16 V.S.A. §1756.
The Board does not recognize any obligation to purchase insurance from a particular agent, broker or insurer representative or from any group of agents, brokers or insurer representatives other than an obligation based on the above stated considerations.
The Superintendent is responsible for preparing an annual risk management audit report for review by the Board. The report shall include a description of the system's current risk management program and a summary of the existing insurance coverage’s.
The Superintendent may seek professional risk management advice, within budget constraints, in order to develop, implement, maintain and audit an effective risk management program for the system.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): 12 V.S.A. §5781 (Non-profit organizations)
16 V.S.A. §1756 (Protection of school officials and staff)
Cross Reference: Safety and Security of School Facilities (E6)
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CODE E5
EMERGENCY CLOSINGS
Policy
The School Board through its Superintendent may order the closing of any and all schools whose operation on a short_term basis would pose a serious threat to students or staff.
Implementation
Such emergencies may be caused by weather conditions, equipment breakdown, bomb threats, or health problems. The Superintendent will also have the authority to delay school opening or dismiss early due to inclement weather or other emergencies.
In all cases, notification will be given staff and the public according to a predetermined plan developed by the Superintendent. The Board chair will be notified as soon as practicable by the Superintendent when school is closed for emergencies.
Days lost due to emergency closings will be rescheduled so that school will be in session as required by state law.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): Vt. State Board of Education Manual of Rules & Practices §2311
Cross Reference:
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CODE E6
SAFETY AND SECURITY OF SCHOOL FACILITIES
Policy
It is the policy of the Rockingham School District to maintain a physical environment that is safe, clean and attractive.
The Board and the school staff cannot be the guarantors of student safety, and the school does not owe students a duty of immediate supervision at all times and under all circumstances.
Implementation
The Principal or his or her designee will conduct weekly inspections of facilities. This inspection will include proper storage and use of potentially hazardous materials on the premises and areas where safety hazards might develop.
Faculty and staff members will report potentially hazardous conditions to the Principal promptly, and will correct those hazardous conditions which can reasonably be corrected. The Principal will be responsible for seeing to it that any hazardous conditions which cannot be reasonably corrected by faculty and staff members are promptly corrected by qualified persons.
Procedures for maintaining security will be developed by the building Principal (or Superintendent). Procedures will be distributed to all employees who will have responsibility for complying therewith.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): 16 V.S.A. §563 (5) (Duty of care)
Cross Reference: Risk Management (E4)
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CODE E7
SCHOOL CRISIS PREVENTION & RESPONSE
Policy
It is the policy of the Rockingham School District to maintain a safe, orderly, civil and positive learning environment, and to be prepared, in so far as possible, to prevent and respond to unexpected crises quickly and appropriately. While the very unexpected nature of a crisis may make preparation difficult, the Board believes that staff and students should be ready to respond quickly and appropriately to emergency situations.
Definition
Examples of crises include criminal acts, disease epidemic, physical injury or death, presence of intruders on school premises, hazardous materials spills, weather related emergencies, natural disasters or bomb threats.
Administrative Responsibilities
To help prevent the occurrence of some individually caused crises, the Superintendent shall research and share information about educational programs and practices designed to create and sustain a safe learning environment.
The Superintendent is directed to create a school crisis prevention and response plan and administrative procedures that identify how the students, staff should respond to emergency situations, and the role that local emergency service providers will play in crisis preparedness and crisis management. This will include appropriate and effective training; establishment of crisis response teams, both within each building and throughout the supervisory union/district; consultation and cooperation with community agencies, such as police, fire, emergency medical, youth and health authorities; and publication of emergency procedures for such situations as can be imagined.
Generally, the Principal or his/her designee will organize and oversee the planning and operation of the crisis response team and will serve as the incident response team leader, according to the crisis response procedures. The plan will be reviewed annually and routinely practiced during regular drills.
Following a major incident, the crisis response team shall debrief and review the effectiveness of the crisis response and present a report and any recommendations for the future to the superintendent.
Staff Responsibilities
The staff shall follow all guidelines outlined in the crisis response procedures and staff handbook when practicing routine drills and when responding to actually emergency situations.
Student Responsibilities
Students shall follow all guidelines outlined in the crisis response procedures and student handbook when practicing routine drills and when responding to actually emergency situations.
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Students suspected of involvement in causing school crises will be held accountable and shall be dealt with in accordance with the school’s discipline policy and state/federal law. An incident may also be referred to law enforcement for possible criminal charges or for the school to pursue civil litigation.
Any lost time learning time resulting from response to a school crisis or emergency shall be made up.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): 16 V.S.A. §1161a(a)(4) (Discipline)
13 V.S.A. § 1604 (Possession of explosive devices)
13 V.S.A. §1612 (Placing a hoax device)
13 V.S.A. §1753 (False alarms and reports)
School Crisis Response Procedures Guide
Cross Reference: Risk Management (E4)
Student Conduct and Discipline (F1)
Search and Seizure (F3)
Weapons (F21)
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CODE E8
(Mandatory)
TOBACCO PROHIBITION
Policy
It is the policy of the Rockingham School District to prohibit the use of tobacco on school grounds in accordance with state law. This ban extends to any student, employee or visitor to the school, and applies at all times, whether or not school is in session. Students are, furthermore, prohibited from possessing tobacco products at all times while under the supervision of school staff or at school sponsored activities.
Administrative Responsibility
The Superintendent or his or her designee is directed to take reasonable steps to inform students and employees of this policy, to post signs on school property and to provide notice to visitors and those who are invited to attend school activities in bulletins, programs and announcements related to school events.
Violations of Policy
Students who violate this policy will be disciplined under the school’s disciplinary policy and procedures, and tobacco products may be confiscated.
Employees who violate this policy will be subject to disciplinary action in accord with applicable employee policies, employment contracts and requirements of law.
Others who use tobacco on school grounds will be informed of this policy and asked to comply. A person failing to comply will be asked to leave school grounds. A person who refuses to comply or to leave school grounds when requested to do so under this policy may be referred for prosecution as a trespasser.
For purposes of this policy, “school grounds” means any property and facilities owned or leased by the school and used at any time for school related activities, including but not limited to school buildings, areas adjacent to school buildings, athletic fields and parking lots.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): 16 V.S.A. §140 (Tobacco on school grounds)
18 V.S.A. §§1422 et seq. (Smoking in the workplace)
13 V.S.A. §3705 (Unlawful Trespass)
20 U.S.C. §§6083 et seq. (Goals 2000 Educate America Act, Title X)
42 U.S.C. §§5119a et seq. (Children Protection Act of 1995)
Cross Reference: Student Conduct and Discipline (F1)
Bus Discipline (F2)
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CODE E9
(Mandatory)
AIDS OR HIV
Policy
It is the policy of the Rockingham School District to tolerate no discrimination against students or employees who may be afflicted with AIDS or HIV and to provide appropriate education to students about this disease.
Background
The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is not transmitted through casual contact and, therefore, is not reason in itself to treat individuals having or perceived as having HIV differently from other members of the school community. Accordingly, with respect to HIV disease, including acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), the Rockingham School District recognizes the:
1. rights of students and employees with HIV;
2. importance of maintaining confidentiality regarding the medical condition of any individual;
3. importance of an educational environment free of significant risks to health; and
4. necessity for HIV education and training for the school community and the community-at-large.
General Provisions
1. The School District shall not discriminate against or tolerate discrimination against any individual who has or is perceived as having HIV.
2. A student who has or is perceived as having HIV is entitled to attend school in a regular classroom, unless otherwise provided by law, and shall be afforded opportunities on an equal basis with all students.
3. No applicant shall be denied employment and no employee shall be prevented from continued employment on the basis of having or being perceived as having HIV. Such an employee is entitled to the rights, privileges, and services accorded to employees generally, including benefits provided school employees with long-term diseases or disabling conditions.
Confidentiality, Disclosure, Testing
1. A student or student’s parent/guardian, or an applicant/employee, may, but is not required to, report HIV status to any school personnel
2. Except as otherwise permitted by law, no school personnel shall disclose any HIV-related information, as it relates to prospective or current school personnel or students, to anyone except in accordance with the terms of a written consent. The Superintendent shall develop a written consent form which details the information the signatory permits to be disclosed, to whom it may be disclosed, its specified time limitation, and the specific purpose for the disclosure. The School District shall not discriminate against any individual who does not provide written consent.
3. No school official shall require any applicant, employee, or prospective or current student to have any HIV-related test.
4. The Superintendent shall develop procedures which ensure confidentiality in the maintenance and, where authorized, dissemination of all medically-related documents.
Education and Instruction
1. HIV is not, in itself, a disabling condition, but it may result in conditions that are disabling. To the extent that a student who has HIV is determined to meet the criteria for eligibility for
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accommodations under state and federal non-discrimination laws or for special education services, the School District shall meet all procedural and substantive requirements.
2. The School District shall provide systematic and extensive elementary and secondary comprehensive health education which includes education in HIV infection, other sexually transmitted diseases as well as other communicable diseases, and the prevention of disease, as required by law.
3. The Principal shall designate a coordinator to oversee the District’s HIV education plans and programs.
Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens and Universal Precautions
1. The School District shall comply with applicable Vermont Occupational Safety and Health Administration (VOSHA) rules in order to protect employees who are reasonably anticipated to be exposed to bloodborne pathogens as part of their regular job duties.
2. The Superintendent or his/her designess shall determine those employees (by job class and plossibly by task or procedure) who are reasonably anticipated to have occupational exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials as part of their duties. These employees will be protected in strict accordance with the provisions of the Bloodborne Pathogens Standard.
3. Students and all staff not covered by the Bloodborne Pathogens Standard shall be instructed to avoid contact with potentially infectious materials and blood and shall immediately contact a member of the staff who is covered by the exposure control plan. When this is not possible, any person providing assistance shall follow universal precautions.
4. The Superintendent or his/her designee shall provide training to all staff and students about the hazards of bloodborne pathogens, the recommended operating procedures of universal precautions, the existence of the VOSHA required exposure control plan, individuals or job classes to be notified in order to safely handle or clean up blood or other body fluid spills, and the location and use of appropriate protective equipment and first aid devices.
5. The Superintendent or his/her designee shall provide training on the recommended operative procedures of universal precautions to teaching substitutes and school volunteers.
Enforcement
1. A person who violates this policy may be subject to remedial and/or disciplinary action in accordance with applicable laws, collective bargaining agreements, policies, and/or disciplinary codes.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): 1 V.S.A.§§317(c) (7), (11) (Public records)
16 V.S.A. §§131 et seq. (Comprehensive health education)
16 V.S.A. §906 (Course of study)
18 V.S.A. §1127 (HIV testing)
21 V.S.A. §201(c) (2) (Occupational safety), §224, (VOSHA standards)
§495 (Employment practices)
20 U.S.C. §§1400 et seq.(IDEA)
42 U.S.C.§§2000d et seq. (Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964)
42 U.S.C. §§12101 et seq. (Americans with Disabilities Act)
29 U.S.C. §§651 et seq. (Occupational Safety & Health Act of 1970)
29 C.F.R. §1910.1030 (Occupational Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens Standard)
Vermont State Board of Education Manual of Rules & Practices §2120.8.2.3(c
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CODE F1
(Mandatory)
STUDENT CONDUCT AND DISCIPLINE
Policy
It is the policy of the Rockingham School District to maintain a safe, orderly, civil and positive learning environment. In order to ensure that the school is free from hazing, harassment, bullying and other disruptive misconduct, a system of classroom and school management practices, supported by consistent, clear and fair disciplinary procedures, will be utilized.
The goal of this policy is to create an environment where the rules for student behavior are clearly stated, are understood and accepted by students and staff, and are applied in compliance with due process requirements. This policy is to be applied in conjunction with the school's overall discipline plan developed pursuant to 16 V.S.A. § 1161a.
Student Responsibilities
It is the responsibility of each student to contribute to a safe and productive learning environment in the school by demonstrating respect and consideration for fellow students and adults. This includes complying with all policies and rules of conduct of the School District and individual classrooms.
Administrative Responsibilities
The Principal, in consultation with the educational staff will develop an overall discipline plan pursuant to 16 V.S.A. §1161a. The plan will include clear guidelines for student behavior. Behavioral expectations, and the consequences of misconduct, will be stated in the student handbook and other publications distributed to students and parents/guardians.
The rules of conduct will be distributed to, and discussed with, all students at the beginning of each school year in accord with procedures stated in the school discipline plan. Students will be instructed to share the student handbook with their parents. Copies of the handbook will be provided to parents or guardians in a manner determined by the Principal. The Principal may ask that parents sign a form indicating that they have reviewed the rules of conduct with their children. When new students enroll during the school year, they and their parents will be given copies of the rules of conduct as part of the pre-enrollment process.
The Principal or his or her designee shall be responsible for carrying out discipline procedures conforming with the following guidelines.
1. A student may request a meeting with the Principal or his or her designee to review any disciplinary action, other than a suspension or expulsion, affecting the student. If requested, the Principal or designee shall hold an informal meeting to review the incident and to hear the views of the student and any other persons who may have information that the Principal or designee believes to be relevant in the circumstances. The Principal or designee shall issue a prompt decision to the student, which may be oral or written. Except as otherwise provided in this policy, the decision of the Principal will be final.
2. Suspension or expulsion of students shall be imposed in accordance with state and federal law and regulations, due process requirements, and the following rules and procedures:
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A. The Principal or his or her designee may assign a student to in_school detention for up to 10 consecutive school days for any infraction of school rules. As provided in the school's overall discipline plan, students assigned to in_school detention will be provided with reasonable opportunities to complete academic assignments and to benefit from counseling or other activities designed to bring about improvements in their behavior.
B. A student who poses an immediate danger to persons or property or a significant threat of disrupting the academic process of the school shall be removed from the school or to a place within the school determined by the Principal, Superintendent or their designee to be sufficiently secure to ensure the safety of students and school personnel and the continuation of the academic process. The Superintendent or Principal or their designee shall notify a parent or guardian of a student who is removed from school without undue delay. If the parent, guardian or other responsible person designated as an emergency contact by the parent or guardian cannot be notified, the student will be detained at school or at another safe and secure setting for
the remainder of the school day.
C. No student will be removed from school for more than the remainder of a school day unless the student and his or her parents are given an opportunity for an informal hearing pursuant to paragraph “D” of this policy. When immediate removal of a student is necessary prior to a hearing, the hearing shall be held as soon as possible following the removal.
D. The Superintendent or Principal may suspend a student from school for a period of 10 days or less for misconduct occurring on or off school grounds. Except as provided in paragraph b above, prior to such a suspension, the student and his or her parent or guardian shall be given an opportunity for an informal hearing with the Principal or his or her designee. The student and his or her parent or guardian must be given notice of the charges, an explanation of the evidence against the student, an opportunity for the student to tell his or her side of the story, and a decision in writing to the parent or guardian.
E. The Superintendent or Principal may, with the approval of the Board and in accordance with 16 V.S.A. §1162(a), impose a long-term suspension or expulsion of a student (for longer than ten days and up to 90 school days or the remainder of the school year, whichever is longer) for misconduct on school property, on a school bus or at a school-sponsored activity when the misconduct makes the continued presence of the student harmful to the welfare of the school.
F. In accord with the overall discipline plan developed under 16 V.S.A. § 1161a, short-term (ten days or less) or long-term suspension or expulsion may be imposed for misconduct not on school property, on a school bus or at a school-sponsored activity where direct harm to the welfare of the school can be demonstrated.
G. Long_term suspension or expulsion must be preceded by notice and formal due process procedures, including the opportunity for a hearing before the School Board. The Superintendent shall notify the student and his or her parents in writing of the nature of the charges, the date, time and place of the hearing, the right to legal representation, and the disciplinary action to be recommended to the board. This notice shall be provided in
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sufficient time to allow the student and his or her parents to prepare for the hearing. At the hearing, the student and parent/guardian shall be given an opportunity to present evidence and to cross_examine witnesses. The Board shall issue a written decision within two (2) days of the conclusion of the hearing.
3. Notwithstanding the above provisions, a legal pupil who has a disability or is suspected of having a disability, and is eligible for special education services or Section 504 services may be removed from his or her current educational placement for disciplinary reasons for more than 10 consecutive days, or for more than 10 cumulative days in a school year only in accordance with Vermont State Board of Education Rules 4313 or 4312. The school Principal, with the agreement of a special education administrator, may impose short-term disciplinary sanctions on special education students as provided in Vermont State Board of Education Rule 4313. The Superintendent and coordinator of special education will develop additional procedures as needed to
govern the discipline of students with disabilities.
4. In the event a student brings a weapon to school, the procedures set forth in the District’s Weapons policy (F21) shall apply.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): 16 V.S.A. §1161a (discipline)
16 V.S.A. §1162 (suspension and expulsion)
20 U.S.C. §§1400 et seq.(IDEA)
29 U.S.C. §794 (Section 504, Rehabilitation Act of 1973)
VT State Board of Education Manual of Rules & Practices §4311, 4312, 4313
Cross Reference: Board Commitment to Non-Discrimination (C6)
Public Complaints About Personnel (D10)
Interrogations or Searches of Students by Law Enforcement
Officers or Other Non_School Personnel (F4)
Search and Seizure (F3)
Alcohol and Drug Abuse (F7)
Weapons (F21)
F1: Page 3 of 3
CODE F2
BUS DISCIPLINE
Policy
It is the policy of the Rockingham School District to provide a safe environment on school buses transporting students to and from school and school activities.
Administrative Responsibility
Maintaining student control on the bus is a primary responsibility of the driver. Unmanageable behavior will be reported to the school Principal. Parents will be notified at the discretion of the Principal.
Student Misbehavior
In the event a student is denied transportation privileges for a period of time, parents will be given notice by letter as well as by direct verbal contact when possible. A driver may remove a student from the bus when that student's behavior represents a serious immediate threat to the health and safety of fellow passengers and/or the driver and when removal of the student will not endanger the student's health or safety.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): 16 V.S.A. §1221 (Transportation of students)
16 V.S.A. §1161a (Discipline)
16 V.S.A. §1162 (Suspension and expulsion)
Cross Reference: Transportation (F9)
Student Conduct and Discipline (F1)
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CODE F3
SEARCH AND SEIZURE
Policy
It is the policy of the Rockingham School District to maintain school property to assure the safety and enjoyment of students, school employees and the general public and to extend the useful life of the school facilities.
To carry out this policy the school retains the right to examine all its property and to carry out searches or to seize property under the guidelines provided in this policy.
Guidelines for Searches and Seizure
1. Desks, lockers, textbooks and other materials or supplies loaned by the school to students remain the property of the school, and may be opened by school employees for cleaning, maintenance or emergencies. When prohibited items are found in the course of routine cleaning or maintenance, or in the case of emergency, they will be confiscated and a report will be made to the Principal who will determine whether further investigation is warranted.
2. School property may also be searched by school employees upon reasonable suspicion on the part of the Principal, Assistant Principal, or Superintendent that a law or school policy is being violated. Searches of school property in the possession of students will not extend to areas or items not reasonably calculated to aid in the enforcement of specific policies or laws.
3. Searches of students' persons, personal effects or vehicles may be conducted if there is reasonable cause to believe that such search will produce evidence of a breach of school policy or law. Search of a student's person will be conducted by a school employee of the same sex and, whenever possible, in the presence of another school employee. A strip search will be conducted only upon probable cause (and will not be carried out by school personnel).
4. School employees are not the agents of law enforcement officials. Search and/or seizure by law enforcement officials on school property may occur when a warrant or other legal basis exists authorizing such search and/or seizure, and when the requirements of the Board's policy on interrogations by law enforcement officers have been complied with.
5. Copies of this policy will be distributed to students when they enroll in school, and will be included in the student handbook given to students and parents at the beginning of each school year.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): New Jersey v. T.L.D., 105 S.Ct. 733 (1985)
Vernonia School District v. Acton, 115 S.Ct. 2386 (1995)
M.M. v. Anker, 607 F.2d 588 (2d Cir. 1979)
Cross Reference: Interrogation or Searches of Students by Law Enforcement Officers or
Other Non_School Personnel (F4)
Student Conduct and Discipline (F1)
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CODE F4
INTERROGATION OR SEARCHES OF STUDENTS BY LAW ENFORCEMENT PERSONNEL OR OTHER NON-SCHOOL PERSONNEL
Policy
School employees are not the agents of law enforcement officials. For purposes of law enforcement interrogations, searches and/or seizure may occur on school property under the guidelines outlined in this policy.
Guidelines
1. Search and/or seizure by law enforcement officials on school property may occur when a warrant or other legal basis exists authorizing such search and/or seizure.
2. No questioning by non_school personnel of a student under the age of eighteen who may be accused of an offense shall occur without the knowledge of the school administrator and the knowledge and permission of the parent(s) or guardian(s) who will have been given the opportunity to be present at the time of the questioning. Questioning may, however, take place without notification of parents if such questioning is 1) part of a child abuse or neglect investigation conducted by the Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services in accordance with Chapter 49 of Title 33 of the Vermont Statutes Annotated; or 2) required due to an emergency or urgent potential danger to life, or property, as determined by the Principal, and reasonable efforts to notify the student's parents are
unsuccessful.
3. Any interrogation by non_school personnel must be conducted in private with the Principal or his or her designee present.
4. A student may not be released to the custody of persons other than a parent or legal guardian, unless placed under arrest by legal authority.
5. If a student is removed from the school by legal authority, the student's parent(s) or guardian(s) should be notified of this action by school officials as soon as possible.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): 33 V.S.A. §4915 (Child welfare services)
Cross Reference: Search and Seizure (F3)
Student Conduct and Discipline (F1)
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CODE F5
(Mandatory)
STUDENT RECORDS
Policy
The Rockingham School District recognizes the importance of keeping accurate and appropriate education records for students as part of a sound educational program and is committed to act as trustee of this information, maintaining these records for educational purposes to serve the best interests of its students. The information contained in students' education records belongs primarily to the students and/or their parent(s), or guardians.
The principle of confidentiality underlies all policies and procedures for the collection, maintenance, disclosure and destruction of educational records. The building Principal will be the legal custodian of all student records in a given school. The Superintendent has overall responsibility for school records throughout the District and for assuring that adequate systems are in place to maintain such records.
Definitions
1. Other school official determined to have legitimate educational interests means a person who needs to review a student’s education record or receive information there from in order to fulfill his or her employment or official responsibilities and who is:
o A person employed by the Rockingham School District as an administrator, supervisor, educator or substitute therefore, paraprofessional or support staff member, including tutorial, health, law enforcement, custodial, transportation, nutrition, athletic, extra-or co-curricular, clerical or other support staff;
o A member of the Rockingham School Board;
o A person or company with whom the Rockingham School District has contracted to perform a special task, including an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, therapist, evaluator;
o A volunteer assisting another school official in the performance of his or her tasks; and
o Any other person designated by the Rockingham School Board or Principal of any school within the Rockingham School District to have legitimate educational interests.
Directory information. The school will release directory information without prior written consent unless the parent or guardian or eligible student informs the Principal in writing that any or all of
the information designated below should not be released without prior consent.
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o Student's name, address, date of birth, dates of enrollment;
o Parent or guardian’s name and address;
o Student's grade level classification;
o Student's participation in recognized school activities and sports;
o Weight and height of member of athletic teams;
o Student's diplomas, certificates, awards and honors received.
NOTE: FERPA regulations permit the identification as directory information any "information contained in an education record of a student which would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed." The above list is, therefore, suggestive.
Implementation
The Superintendent is responsible for developing procedures to assure the consistent implementation of this policy. The procedures shall comply with all federal and state laws and regulations governing the collection, maintenance, disclosure and destruction of education records.
1. Parental Notification. Annually, the school will notify parents or guardians of students currently in attendance and eligible students (age 18 and over) currently in attendance of their rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974. Notice will be given in a manner outlined by the Superintendent and likely to inform parents or guardians and eligible students of their rights. The notice will include a statement that the parent or guardian or eligible student has a right to:
o Inspect and review the student's education records;
o Request the amendment of the student's education records to ensure that they are not inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student's privacy or other rights;
o Consent to disclosure of personally identifiable information contained in the student's education records, except to the extent that the Act authorizes disclosure without consent;
o File with the U.S. Department of Education a complaint concerning alleged failures by the school to comply with requirements of the Act; and
o Obtain a copy of the school's policy and written procedures or protocols related to student records.
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2. Notification to Parents Required by the No Child Left Behind Act
o Parents of students attending grades 9-12 and eligible students shall be notified annually that the No Child Left Behind Act requires the release of a student’s name, address and telephone listing to military recruiters and institutions of higher learning upon request. In accord with the Act, parents or eligible students will further be notified that they may request that the district not release this information, and the district will comply with the request.
o Parents shall be notified annually if the district has or adopts a policy on the collection or use of personal information collected from students for the purpose of marketing or selling that information or otherwise providing that information to others for that purpose, including arrangements to protect student privacy in the event of such collection, disclosure or use.
3. Release/Review of Student Information
o Disclosure of student information will be made only with the written consent of the parent or guardian or eligible student subject to the following exceptions:
§ Information may be disclosed to officials of the school in which the student is enrolled who have a legitimate educational interest in the records and require the information to adequately carry out their jobs;
§ Information may be disclosed upon request to officials of a school in which the student seeks or intends to enroll;
§ Under court order or subpoena;
§ To individuals seeking Directory Information: see definitions
§ In connection with a student’s request for financial aid;
§ To appropriate parties in a health or safety emergency.
o Parents or guardians of students or eligible students may inspect and review the student’s records upon request. Parents or guardians should submit requests to the Principal in writing specifying as precisely as possible the information he or she wishes to inspect. The Principal will make appropriate arrangements to meet with the parent(s) or guardian(s) for such inspection according to procedures developed by the school’s administration.
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I if an eligible student or parent or guardian believes the education records contain
information that is inaccurate, misleading or in violation of any of the student’s
rights, s/he may request the building Principal to amend the record. If the building
Principal decides not to amend the record as requested, the student or parent or guardian may appeal using the District’s general appeal process.
o Non-custodial Parents: Access to a student’s school records shall not be denied to a parent solely because that parent has not been awarded parental rights and responsibilities by a court. However, access will be denied where a court order or other legally binding document specifically revokes a parent’s right of access to such records.
o Each contract entered into between the Rockingham School District and persons or entities who may either receive a student's education records or personally identifiable information shall contain a provision setting forth the restrictions on redisclosure of information from education records.
o School District will maintain a record of all requests for and/or disclosures of information from a student’s records according to the school’s procedures. The District will record, also, all requests for amendment of the record and the disposition of the request(s).
4. Juvenile Court Records. The Family Court is required to inform in writing the Superintendent of the District in which a student is enrolled within seven days of a court finding that the student has committed a delinquent act requiring notice.
o Sharing of Information. The Superintendent shall inform only those for whom the information is necessary for the rehabilitation program of the child or for the protection of staff or students, and only after first evaluating rehabilitation and protection measures that do not involve informing staff or students. “Need to know” should be narrowly and strictly interpreted. Persons receiving this information shall not discuss the information with anyone except the Superintendent, the child, the child’s parent or guardian, law enforcement personnel, the student’s probation officer or others who have been similarly informed.
o Maintenance of Records. The notice from the Family Court shall be maintained by the Superintendent in a file separate from the student’s education record. Upon the graduation of the student or when the student turns 18, the Superintendent shall destroy the record. If a student transfers to another public or private school,
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the Superintendent shall forward the written notice in the original marked envelope to the Superintendent or headmaster of the school to which the student is transferring.
o Transfer of Records. When a student transfers to another school or school district, all student records shall be forwarded.
o Staff Training. Annually, the Superintendent shall ensure that training is provided to each member of the School Board and staff concerning his or her responsibilities to maintain the confidentiality of information from student education records consistent with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. Such training shall be tailored to the scope of the staff or Board member’s duties and, as appropriate, include presentation of information on:
§ The maintenance and storage of education records;
§ Record keeping requirements regarding disclosure of a student’s education records;
§ The potential penalties both to the staff member and the school for inappropriate disclosure of a student’s education record or personally identifiable information there from.
§ The definitions of “record,” “education record,” “directory of information,” and “personally identifiable information” under federal law;
§ Where to receive advice and direction in circumstances where the Board or staff member’s responsibilities in this regard are unclear; and
§ The penalties for violation of the rules of confidentiality set forth in Vermont law.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): 20 U.S.C. §§1232f-1232j (Federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974)
20 U.S.C. § 7908 (NCLBA Armed Forces Recruiter/Higher Education Access)
34 C.F.R. Part 99
1 V.S.A. §317 (Definitions)
15 V.S.A. §670 (Non-custodial parents)
33 V.S.A. §5536a (Juvenile court records)
VT State Board of Education Manual of Rules and Practices §2120.8.3.3
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CODE F6
STUDENT MEDICATION
Policy
It is the policy of the Rockingham School District to have procedures in place to assure that medication required by students during the school day will be administered and maintained in a safe manner as directed by the student’s parent, guardian or health care provider.
Implementation
The Superintendent (or designee) will develop procedures that assure that the dispensing of prescribed medication to any student during the regular school day or during school sponsored activities comply with the following:
1. Medication may be given by the school nurse or principal upon written orders from a physician, and upon written request of a student's parent or guardian that the School District comply with the physician’s order. The physician's orders must detail the name of the drug, dosage, time interval the medication is to be taken, diagnosis and reason for giving.
2. Medication must be brought to school in a container labeled by the pharmacy or physician and stored in a secure, locked storage place.
Non_prescription medication must be accompanied by a written request from the parent or guardian of a student bringing such medication to school. The request must contain assurances that the student has suffered no previous ill effects from the use of medication. Medication must be left in the custody of the school nurse or principal.
The school shall provide an opportunity for communication with the pupil, parent or guardian, and physician regarding the efficacy of the medication administered during school hours.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): Vt. State Board of Education Manual of Rules and Practices §§4220 et seq.
Cross Reference:
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CODE F7
(Mandatory)
ALCOHOL AND DRUGS
Policy
It is the policy of this School District that no student shall knowingly possess, use, sell, give or otherwise transmit, or be under the influence of any illegal drug, regulated substance, or alcohol on any school property, or at any school sponsored activity away from or within the school.
Philosophy
This policy is concerned with the health and well-being of all students and the policy takes into consideration the individual needs of students with alcohol and substance abuse problems as well as the right of all students to receive an appropriate education in an alcohol and drug free environment. The Board encourages educational programs that provide every student with an understanding of the physical, psychological, social and legal dangers associated with drug abuse.
Chemical abuse and dependency are treatable health problems that are primarily the responsibility of the home and the community. The school shares this responsibility in the areas of prevention (education) and intervention (identification and referral).
Community and schools share in this responsibility because chemical problems often interfere with behavior, learning, and the fullest possible development of each student.
Definitions
Alcohol and drug (substance) abuse is the ingestion of a substance in such a way that it interferes with a person’s ability to perform physically, intellectually, emotionally, or socially.
Drug means any narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana or any other controlled substance as defined by state or federal regulation or statute.
Implementation
The Superintendent (or designee) is responsible for implementing procedures to see that the following requirements are met:
1. Educational Program. The District shall conduct an alcohol and drug abuse educational program on a sequential basis from early childhood through grade 12 in accordance with the mandates of 16 V.S.A. §909, the Vermont Alcohol and Drug Education Curriculum Plan, and the federal Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act (20 U.S.C. §§7101 et seq.).
2. Cooperative Agreements. In dealing with substance abuse cases, every effort will be made to promote responsible decision_making by the student involved and other students who are aware of another student’s use or abuse. The focus will be to encourage appropriate medical and/or psychological intervention by trained professionals. Students and parents or guardians will be given information about outside agencies and will be encouraged to take advantage of their services and programs.
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The Rockingham School District has established a Student Assistance Program. Students, under the age of eighteen, who have been referred or who refer themselves to the Student Assistance
Program counselor may be seen individually by the counselor for purposes of substance abuse screening and consultation. It will be the goal of the Student Assistance Program to encourage the student to involve his/her parents or guardians at the earliest point in time.
No student under the age of eighteen will be referred to an outside agency for substance abuse treatment without parental consent unless, in accord with 18 V.S.A. §4226, the student is 12 or over and found by a licensed physician to be dependent upon regulated drugs or an alcoholic.
Parental consent is not required for student participation in group programs conducted within the schools which are educational in nature and designed to impart information and/or assist students in improving their sense of self_esteem. Such groups may be conducted only by trained professionals contracted by the schools to perform such service or by trained school staff who have been approved by the school administration to conduct such groups.
3. Substance Abuse Team. In each school the Principal shall form a Substance Abuse Team which shall screen students who refer themselves and students who are referred by staff for suspected drug and/or alcohol use and/or abuse problems. The membership of the team and the procedures to be used by the team will be developed by the Principal and disseminated in writing to the building faculty and staff.
4. Staff Training. The District will provide school staff with training such that teachers and health and guidance personnel can competently teach or provide other services required in the school’s alcohol and drug abuse prevention education program. Such training is outlined in State Board Rule 4213.2.
5. Community Involvement. The District will provide for a program to inform the community about substance abuse issues and about how schools are handling such issues.
6. Annual Report. In a standard format provided by the Department of Education, schools will submit an annual report to the Commissioner of Education describing substance abuse education programs and their effectiveness.
7. Notification. Parents and students will be given a copy of the standards of conduct and disciplinary sanctions contained in this policy and accompanying procedures, and will be notified that compliance with the standards of conduct is mandatory.
Date Warned: 20 March 2006
Date Adopted: 3 April 2006
Legal Reference(s): 20 U.S.C. §§7101 et seq. (Safe & Drug-Free Schools & Communities Act of 1994)
16 V.S.A. §909 (Education curriculum)
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