Staples High School was originally built in 1884 by a savvy Yankee trader, Horace Staples. Believing in the value of education, Horace determined Westport should be a progressive town and have its own high school.

As a young boy, Horace attended the local district school until he was 10 years old. At that age, farm boys were expected to forego schooling and go to work full time on the farm, though a determined boy might continue his studies during the four or five months of winter. Despite these limitations, Horace Staples completed his education and embarked upon a successful business and banking career.

Having unsuccessfully offered land for a school to the town of Westport in 1866, Staples decided to build the school himself. Some of the businessmen feared that education would make the boys lazy, but Mr. Staples did not believe this.

Opening on October 31, 1884, Staples High School was a three-story red brick building on Riverside Avenue located on the land now occupied by Bedford Middle School. Beginning with 60 students who paid an annual tuition of $16 to $20, the school had one high school classroom, one grammar school classroom, a library and a laboratory. School lasted from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. as students studied a variety of subjects including English, German, Latin, Greek and algebra.

On June 24, 1887, the first graduating class of six young women was handed the first Staples’ diplomas. Made of genuine sheepskin, these diplomas bore a picture of the school’s donor, Horace Staples. On July 1, 1903, control of Staples High School was transferred from Staples’ estate to the Town of Westport. Fifty years after the first graduating class of six, 88 young men and women graduated.

In 1958, Staples High School was moved to its current location on North Avenue in order to respond to the expanding needs of the community. Today’s Staples includes an Olympic-size indoor pool and a radio station, WWPT-FM (90.3 FM).

Staples is a front-runner in the state and nation for its broad range of extracurricular activities, its rich curriculum and its outstanding program of professional development for teachers and administrators.

During the 2000-01 school year, we are proud to report that Staples had first place winners in several academic national competitions including the Intel Science program, the Siemens-Westinghouse program, and the National Engineering Design Challenge.

PHILOSOPHY

Education is by its very nature a contradictory affair. On the one hand, its purpose is to conserve what society thinks is best and to pass on that information and those skills to the next generation. On the other hand, education must enable people to question tradition, to enhance and even change society. With this in mind, the role of a good school is to establish a balance between the conservative and the radical; it is to promote questioning and change as well as an understanding of and reverence for the past. Staples High School recognizes its central responsibility as an intellectual one - to teach students to use their minds and to stimulate their intellectual curiosity.

Staples High School is the active environment in which entering middle school adolescents become young adults whose future choices and decision swill influence, not only their own lives, but indeed our world. We at Staples help our students develop skills to communicate, calculate, create, research and reason. We encourage our students to build a foundation of responsibility, respect, cooperation and sensitivity to the needs and contributions of others. We recognize that the process of thoughtful choice and change can best occur in a nurturing environment, one in which students schooled in a shared body of knowledge come to possess a lifelong passion for learning.

Democracy is a way of life filled with paradox. The freedom of the individual must be sensitively balanced by responsibility and responsiveness to a community of individuals. Staples High School, as a center for education in a democracy, honors and promotes that freedom, that responsibility and that responsiveness.

The Staples community commits itself to a firm belief in the worth and dignity of each human being. We believe in the pursuit of knowledge and value the process of learning as highly as the product of learning. We are dedicated to the fostering of democratic principles and to the promotion of excellence.

CORE VALUES

· Cherish the attainment of academic excellence

· Act with respect and speak with kindness to one another

· Respect each person’s right to a safe and productive learning environment

· Prote ct personal and school property

ACADEMIC EDUCATION EXPECTATIONS

1. Each student will think critically in a variety of contexts and situations.

To that end a student will:

· Interpret, compare and contrast

· Apply knowledge in new contexts

· Generalize, predict and draw conclusions

· Analyze, evaluate and synthesize

2. Each student will be a reflective learner.

To that end a student will:

· Articulate their own learning styles

· Accommodate other students’ learning styles

· Assess areas for growth and strategies as a learner

· Incorporate constructive feedback in order to improve learning

· Utilize appropriate support and resources

· Demonstrate the ability to set priorities and achievable goals

3. Each student will read critically.

To that end a student will:

· Identify main ideas, author’s purpose and intended audience

· Locate supporting details

· Evaluate authenticity and reliability of sources

· Make connections within and among texts

· Formulate questions based on the text

· Analyze the text

4. Each student will write effectively.

To that end a student will:

· Write with organization and coherence

· Write for a variety of purposes and audiences

· Develop an idea completely

· Provide sufficient supporting details

· Use clear, correct and varied sentence structure

· Write with mechanical and grammatical correctness

· Make appropriate word choices

5. Each student will speak effectively.

To that end a student will:

· Listen for and identify main ideas, principles and concepts

· Use constructive feedback to improve two-way communication skills

· Interpret and synthesize information conveyed by other speakers

· Demonstrate an openness to speakers with differing points of view

6. Each student will listen effectively.

To that end a student will:

· Listen for main ideas, principles and concepts

· Use constructive feedback to improve two-way communication skills

· Interpret and synthesize information conveyed by other speakers

· Demonstrate an openness to speakers with differing points of view

7. Each student will be competent problem solvers.

To that end a student will:

· Identify and define the problem

· Understand the relevant issues presented by a problem

· Identify and locate the relevant information needed to solve a problem

· Develop a logical approach leading to a valid conclusion

· Collect and analyze data

· Clearly communicate the results

8. Each student will use technology as a tool for learning.

To that end a student will:

· Assess the strengths and weaknesses of various types of technology

· Use appropriate technology to research information

· Use technology to analyze data

· Understand technology to communicate ideas and information

9. Each student will demonstrate an understanding of the human experience through a study of history and diverse cultures.

To that end a student will:

· Demonstrate an awareness of various past and present political, social, economic and religious systems.

· Understand the concept and implications of ethnocentrism

· Assess the impact of diverse ideologies on the human condition

· Understand the significance of events and trends of the past and present

10. Each student will strive to be physically, mentally and emotionally healthy.

To that end a student will:

· Develop skills necessary to perform a variety of physical activities

· Regularly participate in practices and activities to help achieve and maintain physical, mental and emotional well being

· Demonstrate an ability to cope with stress and use a available support systems

11. Each student will demonstrate awareness and a critical understanding of aesthetics.

To that end a student will:

· Demonstrate the ability to work in an artistic medium

· Demonstrate an understanding of the elements of the creative process

· Demonstrate comprehension of the historical and cultural context in which arts are created

· Demonstrate a knowledge of artists and their works

CIVIC EDUCATION EXPECTATIONS

1. Each student will demonstrate citizenship in their school and community both in words and actions.

To that end a student will:

· Work to improve their school and community

· Develop a sense of civic responsibility to a group larger than friends, family, and co-workers

2. Each student will demonstrate a sense of ethics.

To that end a student will:

· Demonstrate honesty, integrity, dependability and self-control

· Fulfill academic, civic and social obligations

· Maintain standards of decorum

SOCIAL EDUCATION EXPECTATIONS

1. Each student will work cooperatively.

To that end a student will:

· Use positive interpersonal skills

· Monitor their behavior as group members

· Demonstrate willingness to compromise

· Accept and apply constructive criticism

· Perform a variety of roles within a group

2. Each student will demonstrate social competencies that promote respect for others.

To that end a student will:

· Accept individual differences and demonstrate concern and compassion for others

· Accept responsibility for their behavior

ACCREDITATION

Staples High School is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc., a non-governmental, nationally recognized organization whose affiliated institutions include elementary schools through collegiate institutions offering post-graduate instruction.

Accreditation of an institution by the New England Association indicates that it meets or exceeds criteria for the assessment of institutional quality periodically applied through a peer group review process. An accredited school is one which has available the necessary resources to achieve its stated purposes through appropriate educational programs, is substantially doing so, and gives reasonable evidence that it will continue to do so in the foreseeable future. Institutional integrity is also addressed through accreditation.

ACADEMIC SCHEDULE

We expect students and staff to practice high ethical standards. Honesty, respect for the process of learning, and concern for others are essential to the proper functioning of our community. In an educational setting such as Staples, academic cheating is not tolerated, and when discovered, the student faces appropriate school discipline.

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY

All students are expected to exhibit ethical behavior in meeting their academic responsibilities. Cheating, plagiarism and other violations of the academic integrity policy carry serious consequences including grade and course failure.

ACADEMIC YEAR

The year is comprised of 4 quarters with an assessment period after each semester (2^nd and 4^th quarters).

ACADEMIC DAY

An Academic Day runs from 7:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. with 8 periods (1-8) of varying lengths based on a 5-day cycle. The cycle rotates periods to insure 8 classes meet 4 times a week with a daily lunch period. See appendix: Daily Schedule.

Three Alternative Schedules (X,Y or Z), allowing for 5, 60 or 20 minute meetings, were developed to allow for time to discuss important school issues, distribute report cards, hold concurrent class meetings, elect officers, etc.

COMMUNICATION TIME

The purpose of the Communication Time period is to create an informed school community, which fosters greater and more effective engagement in the overall life of Staples High School.

A 15-minute Communication Time occurs at the start of the period three days a week periods 2, 3, 8 on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday during the school year.

ACADEMIC ASSISTANCE

TEACHER HELP

According to a teacher’s schedule, teachers are accessible for extra help. Students are encouraged to communicate this need with each specific teacher.

ACADEMIC SUPPORT CENTERS

Academic support is provided through the Reading and Writing Centers. The Reading Center offers semester courses designed to strengthen comprehension, vocabulary, study skills, and reading fluency and speed. The Writing Center offers semester courses designed to strengthen grammar, composition, editing and creative writing skills. The Title I program is designed to help students with study skills, homework assignments, projects and personal study skills. In addition, students may schedule appointments and/r attend drop-in sessions as needed.

LEARNING CENTERS

Three Learning Centers provide assistance to students at all levels throughout the entire school day from period 1 through period 8. Each center is staffed by two faculty members prepared to help students on class assignments, projects, and activities. The range of service extends from the struggling learner to students with advanced skills. The Centers include Math/Science, English/Social Studies and World Language.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Students must earn a minimum of 22.0 credits in the following areas:

AREA # OF CREDITS

English (1.0 each year) 4.0

Distribution:

As part of the English requirement, all students

Must produce a major research paper (usually in

The junior year) in one of the following courses:

English III, AP Language, Effective Writing, or

Research and Understanding Literature

Social Studies 3.5

Distribution:

· Western Humanities 1.0

· U.S. History 1.0

· Area Studies .5

· American Government .5

· Additional Elective .5

Mathematics 3.0

Science 2.0

Technology/Computer Science* .5

Physical Education and Health 3.0

Distribution:

Freshman year 1.0

Sophomore year 1.0

Junior year 1.0

Senior year (Health) Seniors must enroll

Arts 4.0

Distribution: (Minimum of .5 credits in 3 of 4 areas)

(1) Fine Arts – Art, Music, Theater;

(2) Practical Arts – Computer, Driver

Education, Family & Consumer Science,

Technology Education, Media/TV Production,

Work-Study;

(3) Human Arts – Child Development, Child

Study, Community Service, Senior Option,

Relationships;

(4) World Language – Only a third year level or

Higher course may be applied toward this credit.

*Computer requirement waiver: students who meet the exit standards of the middle school computer technology program will be exempted from the .5 high school computer requirement.

Electives 2.0

Total 22

COURSE EVALUATION

All courses are to be evaluated at the end of the semester in which the course is completed. Teachers will provide evaluation forms for all students in the class. The evaluations are used to improve curriculum and pedagogic strategies.

COURSE LOAD REQUIREMENTS

Students must enroll in a minimum number of classes in each quarter as follows:

Grade 9: 7 classes each quarter.

Grades 10-12: 6 classes each quarter.

CREDIT EARNED OUTSIDE OF WESTPORT PUBLIC SCHOOLS

The following guidelines have been established regarding credits earned outside of the Westport Schools:

· All credit awarding courses in the Westport Summer School will be given credit.

· All makeup courses at an accredited secondary school or college will be honored if the school certifies credit on a transcript.

· All courses taken to accelerate placement, meet prerequisites, or graduation requirements must have both:

1) Prior approval of the program/course and syllabus, by the appropriate division coordinator.

o Approval will be granted based on the match to our curriculum.

o Approval will not be denied for small differences, but the

student will be informed of the missing content. To monitor

learning, we think it is important for the student to have regular contact with a teacher.

2) Post completion approval of the program/course, by the appropriate division coordinator.

o Approval will be based on the grade and listing of objectives

mastered.

· If a student chooses to appeal a decision, he or she may ask for a review by the Staples Academic Placement team chaired by the Coordinator of Guidance.

· Only courses earned at Staples or the Westport Summer School during the high school years will appear on the student’s transcript and be counted toward grade point average.

· External transcripts will be attached to the Staples transcript.

DROP/ADD DEADLINES

Students who need to drop and/or add courses during the school year may do so during the following dates:

There will be only four reasons to drop or add a course:

1. Drop and/or add to accommodate the successful completion of a summer school course.

2. Drop and/or add to accommodate a level change.

3. Drop an advanced course to add a course that was failed last year.

4. Add a course during an unscheduled period if it doesn’t require another change in schedule.

Add Deadline:

Full Year Courses September 4

First Semester Courses September 4

Second Semester Courses January 31

First Quarter Courses September 4

Second Quarter Courses November 6

Third Quarter Courses January 31

Fourth Quarter Courses April 9

Drop Deadline:

Full Year Courses October 25

First Semester Courses September 27

Second Semester Courses March 7

First Quarter Courses September 6

Second Quarter Courses November 8

Third Quarter Courses February 5

Fourth Quarter Courses April 11

*Note: Students dropping a course after the drop deadline, will receive a grade of “WF” (Withdrawn Failing) and that grade will be recorded on the student’s transcript.

Level changes may not be made within the last five (5) school days of the first semester.

1^st qtr. – Oct.28-Nov.1; 2^nd qtr. - Jan. 22-28; 3^rd qtr. – Mar.31-Apr.4.

Pass/No Record Dates:*

Full Year Courses October 25

First Semester Courses September 27

Second Semester Courses March 7

First Quarter Courses September 6

Second Quarter Courses November 8

Third Quarter Courses February 5

Fourth Quarter Courses April 11

*Note: Students dropping a Pass/No Record course, after the drop deadline, will receive a grade of “WF” (Withdrawn Failing) and that grade will be recorded on the student’s transcript.

EXAMS

All classes are scheduled for a two-hour assessment at the end of each semester. Assessment days begin at 8:00 a.m. and end at 12:30 p.m. Make-up exams are administered on a designated date (after the last scheduled exam date). Bus transportation is provided before the first and after the last exam of the day. All students with a State of Connecticut driver’s license may drive during exam week providing that they park only in student parking spaces. Parents must call the Attendance Office if the student is going to be absent.

FINAL GRADES

Students earn a final grade in all of their classes. The final grade becomes part of the student’s official transcript. Students also earn quarterly grades that do not become part of the student’s transcript, but serve as an interim report on the student’s progress in semester and full year courses.

GRADE APPEAL

All grade appeals should be made in writing no later than one quarter after the grade is issued. The appeal should clearly state the reasons for consideration of a grade change. Documentation should be attached which supports each case. The appeal should be made first to the teacher, then the Division Coordinator, and if necessary, the principal.

Note: No case will be heard unless the teacher involved has been contacted.

GRADE CARDS

Grade cards are mailed home to students not owing an accountability approximately eight school days after the end of each quarter.

GRADES EARNED

Grades that may be earned in the Staples’ marking system are:

· A+, A, A-, B+, B, B-, C+, C, C-, D+, D, D-, F (fail)

Grade Equivalents

A+ A A- B+ B B-

97-100 93-96 90-92 87-89 83-86 80-82

C+ C C- D+ D D- F

77-79 73-76 70-72 67-69 63-65 60-62 59-lower

· P (pass): any student may elect up to one (1) credit per year to be graded as “P”. In the case of failure, neither the grade nor the title of the course is reported on any records (No Record). See Attendance Policy & Procedures: Consequences to Unexcused Absences

· I (incomplete): a grade given if a faculty member believes the student deserves additional time to complete a test, assignment, project, etc. Incompletes must be satisfied within one (1) quarter or the grade becomes an “F”.

· WF (withdrawn-failing): the final grade received if a student drops a course after the drop deadline.

GRADE POINT AVERAGE

Based on the grades earned at Staples High School, two grade point averages are calculated for all students:

Academic Grade Point Average: Based on the average of grades earned in English, Foreign Languages, Mathematics, Science and Social Studies classes are weighted by their instructional levels as in the following Grade Points per Credit chart:

GRADE POINTS PER CREDIT

Instructional

Lvl. A+ A A- B+ B B- C+ C C- D+ D D- F__

AP 5.00 4.67 4.33 4.00 3.67 3.33 3.00 2.67 2.33 2.00 1.67 1.33 0.00

HN. 4.67 4.33 4.00 3.67 3.33 3.00 2.67 2.33 2.00 1 .67 1.33 1.00 0.00

A 4.33 4.00 3.67 3.33 3.00 2.67 2.33 2.00 1.67 1.33 1.00 0.67 0.00

B 4.00 3.67 3.33 3.00 2.67 2.33 2.00 1.67 1.33 1.00 0.67 0.33 0.00

C 3.67 3.33 3.00 2.67 2.33 2.00 1.67 1.33 1.00 0.67 0.33 0.16 0.00

Overall Grade Point Average: Based on the unweighted average of grades earned in all subjects using the numerical grade value used for computing the Honor Roll.

Grade Point Average is calculated at the end of the sophomore and junior years, and at the end of the first semester and second semester of the senior year. Classes taken on “Independent Study” basis are not included in the computation of grade point average.

GRADUATION, EARLY/LATE

A student may, by special application, alter the duration of his/her stay at Staples. In some cases, this may mean graduating as much as a full year early. Students, who have not accrued adequate credits within 4 years, will have a special schedule of courses to meet their needs.

GRADUATION WITH HONORS

Certain students graduate from Staples High School with “High Honors” or “Honors”. In addition to other criteria noted below, Academic Grade Point Average, calculated at the end of the first semester of the senior year, is the determinant as to whether a student is graduated with or without formal honors.

High Honors

A student will be designated as graduating with “High Honors” if his/her academic grade point average falls in the top group of the graduating class as indicated by the table as follows:

Class Size

as of Dec. 1 Number of Students

Senior Year Receiving High Honors*

up to 250 10

201 - 250 11

251 - 300 12

301 - 350 13

351 - 14

*Inclusive of Valedictorian and Salutatorian.

If the student has received a failing grade on a report card, he/she will not be eligible for High Honors (may be eligible for Honors).

Honors: A student is designated as graduating with “Honors” if his/her academic grade point average falls in the top ten (10) percent of the graduating class (inclusive of those students receiving High Honors).

Valedictorian: the student with the highest academic grade point average. If there are two or more with the same academic grade point average, there are co-valedictorians and no salutatorian. Students transferring into Staples after the sophomore year will not be considered.

Salutatorian: the student with the second highest academic grade point average. Students transferring into Staples after the sophomore year will not be considered.

Students who do not successfully meet all graduation requirements are prohibited from participation in the graduation ceremony. When requirements are completed, they may participate in the next commencement exercise.

Students earn quarterly grades that do not become part of the student’s transcript, but serve as an interim report on the student’s progress in semester and full year courses.

HONOR ROLL

We publish the honor roll each quarter in the local newspapers.

Computation:

The Honor roll is computed quarterly according to the following scale:

A+ = 4.33 B+ = 3.33 C+ = 2.33 D+ = 1.33 F = 0.00

A = 4.00 B = 3.00 C = 2.00 D = 1.00 WF = 0.00

A- = 3.67 B- = 2.67 C- = 1.67 D- = 0.67

Classes which meet only two days per week are equal to1/2 the grade value.

Classes taken on Independent Basis are not included in the computation of honor roll.

First Honors are awarded to students with a quarterly grade average of 3.665 or higher.

Second Honors are awarded to students with a quarterly grade average between 3.17 and 3.665.

INSTRUCTIONAL LEVELS

Honors, A, B and C Levels

By teacher recommendation, students may enroll in an Honors Level Course. Honors Level courses are not available in all subjects.

Advanced Placement (AP) Courses

By teacher recommendation, students may enroll in an AP Level Course. AP Level courses are not available in all subjects. These courses are equivalent to college level offerings in quality, content and intensity. In May of each year, Educational Testing Service gives Advanced Placement Exams on a nationwide basis that allows AP students an opportunity to demonstrate their success in accomplishing college level work. Graded on a 1 (low) to 5 (high) basis, many colleges will waive a course or give credit to a student for a course completion if they receive a 3, 4 or 5 on the AP exam. It is possible to enter college as a sophomore on the basis of successful passage of multiple AP examinations.

INTERIM PROGRESS REPORT (IPR)

Interim Progress Reports are mailed home approximately halfway through each quarter. These reports should serve as a progress report, i.e., a report of the student’s progress to that point in that quarter.

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITY AFTER IPR AND GRADE CARDS ARE ISSUED

· If a comment or grade indicates academic difficulties, the student should see the teacher and ask what he or she can do to improve his or her work in the class.

· The student should initiate, with the teacher’s advice, a plan to improve which could include: extra time on homework and studying, extra help sessions with teachers.

· The student may also see his or her counselor for assistance in approaching a teacher, developing an improvement plan, or exploring issues or pressures that may be affecting his or her performance. It is your responsibility as high school students, to actively seek to improve your school performance.

PARENT RESPONSIBILITY AFTER IPR AND GRADE CARDS ARE ISSUED.

· It is important for parents to know when the IPR and Grade Cards are issued.

· Parents should review the IPR and Grade Cards with your son or daughter. If progress is less than satisfactory, talk to your child about what is happening with that class and what his or her plans are to improve performance. Encourage your son or daughter to talk with his or her teacher. Follow up on what teacher conference determined as a plan to improve.

· If your child needs your support or you have a serious concern, please call the teacher for suggestions for a plan for improvement.

· If a second report indicates no progress, please call the teacher. You may also want to call the counselor for advice, particularly if there is difficulty in more than one class.

· It is important that you are aware of your child’s academic performance and maintain a dialogue with your child and school staff as appropriate.

STATE AND LOCAL TESTS

PSAT/SAT Tests - 2001-2002

Given at Staples High School

These tests are administered to students seeking college entrance or diagnostic evaluation.

Test Date at Staples

PSAT Oct. 20

SAT I & II Nov. 3

SAT I & II Dec. 1

SAT I & II Feb. 2

SAT I & II May 4

SAT I & II Jun. 1

CAPTests

The Connecticut Academic Performance Test (CAPT) is a statewide test administered to all tenth graders April 30 – May 9. Students are tested in five areas: Response to Literature, Editing, Mathematics Science, and Interdisciplinary. Students earn certificates upon reaching state levels of excellence. Eleventh and twelfth graders may retake the sections of the test they did not master.

Local Tests

Ninth graders are tested each September in reading and writing skills as part of the Westport standardized testing program.

Advanced Placement Tests

A.P. tests are administered each May for students enrolled in AP classes. There is a fee involved.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

CANDLELIGHT CONCERT

This holiday concert is held in mid-December for 2 nights with 2 performances. The Staples orchestra, band, choir, chorus and Orphenians perform. This concert is a gift to the community, and tickets are distributed by request through the mail.

CULTURAL ARTS

Daytime performances for SHS students and faculty sponsored by the town-Wide PTA Cultural Arts Committee. Funds for performances are raised by PTA and individual donations. Past performances include Alvin Ailey Repertory Ensemble, and the Young Artists Competition Winners. Free admission.

FRESHMAN FINE ARTS NIGHT

Staples art, drama and music departments plan an evening to exhibit freshman work in these areas. Parents and the community are invited to attend for free.

SPRING CONCERTS

Single evening performances are planned by the instrument and choral groups. Refer to the Appendix Calendar and the PTA’s newsletter’s updates for dates for orchestra, band, choir, chorus, Jazz Ensemble, Chamber Orchestra and Orphenians. There is an audience admission fee.

STAPLES PLAYERS PRODUCTION

This talented group of students offers two major productions per year in November and April. Previous performances have included “Chorus Line”, “Godspell”, “Pippin”, etc. Tryouts are held 6 weeks in advance and players are required to stay for after-school rehearsals. There is an audience admission fee.

STAPLES STUDIO THEATER

These are student-organized and directed performances open to the public. The performances are held in The Al Pia Studio Theater rather than on center stage in the auditorium. There is an audience admission fee.

TOWN-WIDE ORCHESTRA FESTIVAL

This is a March evening planned by all Westport schools’ music departments for the enjoyment of listening to the performance by children grades 5-12. In alternating years, the Festival is performed by the Band. There is an audience admission fee.

ATTENDANCE POLICY & PROCEDURES

EXPLANATION OF ATTENDANCE POLICY

A Statement of Belief

It is our belief that there is a clear and positive correlation between student learning and consistent and prompt attendance in class. Much of what is presented in courses is sequential. Therefore, learning requires a continuity of attendance and effort. We also strongly believe that what occurs in class is vital to student learning. The richness of class discussions, the exchange of ideas with peers and teachers, the opportunity to defend one’s ideas, the viewing of films and videos, mean that even if students make up the missed work, they have forever lost an opportunity for increased learning and skill development. In addition, a great deal of work in class is done cooperatively and a lack of attendance makes it difficult, if not impossible, for peers to successfully complete the work required. Lack of consistent attendance means that students will not get the full benefit of the courses offered at Staples High School and thus attendance should be and will be a significant factor in the determination of a student’s grade as determined by the individual teacher.

PURPOSE OF THE ATTENDANCE POLICY

The purpose of the Staples High School Attendance Policy reflects our desire to have each student attend all classes and arrive on time. Students and parents should familiarize themselves with the provisions and procedures of the policy. It is expected that parents will support the intent of the policy and encourage their children to have good attendance. The SHS Attendance Policy has been approved by the Board of Education and reviewed by the attorney for the Board of Education. Any questions should be directed to the administrators responsible for attendance.

THE ATTENDANCE POLICY

The number of absences permitted for each course before credit is lost is listed below:

· Full-year course: 20 absences

· Semester course: 10 absences

· Quarter course: 5 absences

· Special courses (other than above): Prorate absences

Absences beyond this number will result in loss of credit for the course or courses in which the student has been absent. For seniors, loss of credit in a course may result in failure to meet graduation requirements.

· A LOSS OF CREDIT MAY OCCUR THROUGH THE ACCUMULATION OF ABSENCES FROM ANY ONE OF THE FOUR TYPES OF ABSENCES LISTED BELOW, OR THROUGH ANY COMBINATION OF THE FOUR TYPES OF ABSENCES.

· EACH TYPE OF ABSENCE IS SLIGHTLY DIFFERENT IN ITS CONTRIBUTION TOWARD REACHING THE MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE ABSENCES IN A COURSE.

(1) Excused Absences: (equals ONE absence per occasion)

· Student illness

· Death or critical illness in the family

· Response to a legal process

· Medical appointment (which cannot be scheduled outside of the school day)

· College visit beyond two (juniors and seniors only)

· Early dismissal or late arrival for other than school related activities

· An absence deemed “excused” by the administrator responsible for the student for seniors only

· A verified visit to the Guidance Office to meet with a college representative. Juniors missing class to meet with a college rep will be charged with an unexcused absence.

(2) Unexcused Absences: (equals TWO absences per occasion)

· All absences not identified above are considered UNEXCUSED

· Absences that are not explained by a Pre-Planned Absence form, a note and/or a telephone call from a parent within 48 hours after the student’s return to school from an absence, are considered UNEXCUSED

· An absence deemed “unexcused” by the administrator responsible for the student

(3) Unexcused Tardies: (equals .25 absence per occasion)

· Occurs when a student arrives up to 10 minutes late for class without authorization

(4) Unexcused Late: (equals .50 absence per occasion)

· Occurs when a student arrives to a class later than 10 minutes without authorization, but less than half way through the class.

· Students arriving more than halfway through the class without authorization will be considered absent.

Absences which do not count towards the loss of credit include, but may not be limited to, the following:

· School related activities

· Suspensions: in-school or out-of-school

· Homebound instruction

· “Special” absences

à Class meetings

à Field trips

à Sports or other school approved extracurricular activities

à Scheduled office and guidance appointments - Normally, scheduled office and guidance appointments should occur during non-class time.

· Religious Observance

· For Juniors and Seniors ONLY: 2 days for college visits. Students must fill out a Preplanned Absence form available in the Dean’s Office prior to going on a college visit. Failure to do so will result in the visit being counted as an absence.

Communications From Parents

· It is the responsibility of parents to communicate to the school the reason for all absences.

· Parent notes or telephone calls to excuse an absence must be received no later than 48 hours following the student’s return to school, or the absence will be classified as unexcused.

All students, please call the Dean’s Office 24 hour Attendance Number (203) 341-1280.

· Parent notes to request an early dismissal must be presented to the office before the student is dismissed in order for dismissal to be considered excused.

· Provide medical documentation for long-term absences, to include the nature of the illness, any limitations on the student, inclusive dates of medical condition, specific dates of absence covered.

Content of Parent Notes

All parent notes for any reason must include the following:

(1) the student’s name,

(2) the date(s) of the absence(s),

(3) the specific reason for the absence, lateness or dismissal,

(4) the signature of the parent

(5) a daytime phone number where a parent can be reached to verify the note.

“Blanket” notes covering unspecified dates of absences, tardies, etc. are not acceptable. (for example: “Please excuse my child from all absences in the months of April and May due to illness.”)

Communications To Student and Parents

Students and parents will be notified concerning absences by mail utilizing the following letters:

· Individual Student Attendance Summary: mailed every two weeks; provides a summary of the number and type(s) of student absences.

· Excessive Absence Notification Letter: generated when one-half of the number of permitted absences has been accumulated in a class. The purpose of this notification will be to inform the parent and the student of the possibility of loss of credit if the student’s attendance does not improve.

· Loss of Credit Letter: generated when a student loses credit in any course.

· Appeals Board Hearing Results Notification: used to communicate the decision of the Appeals Board to the student and parent when a student appeals a loss of credit.

Anticipated Absences

Any anticipated absence, such as college visitations, family vacations, etc., which conflict with the school calendar, must be arranged in advance by a phone call or a Pre-Planned Absence form or the absence will be considered unexcused and make-up privileges will be forfeited.

Dismissal During The School Day

Once students have reported to school, they are expected to remain in school and attend classes all day. Under the following conditions, a student may have an excused dismissal:

1. Under rare or emergency circumstances, a written request from a parent must be presented or a phone call must be received by the Dean’s Office prior to dismissal. A parent may come to the attendance office and personally request dismissal.

2. The student must sign-out in the attendance office. If the student returns to school, the student must sign-in at the attendance office to verify the time of his/her return.

Failure to meet the above two conditions will cause any class absences to be considered unexcused. Such absences will be counted towards loss of credit and make-up privileges will be forfeited.

Illness In School

· In case of illness while in school, the student must report to the health office.

· The nurse, with parental permission, will make the decision to dismiss the student from school.

· Once the nurse has obtained permission to dismiss the student, the student will be issued a dismissal pass.

· Students who become ill in school and report to areas other than the nurse’s office (cafeteria, restrooms, off campus) will be considered “unexcused” and may face disciplinary action.

Appointments With Staples High School Staff

· Upon arrival for an appointment, it is the student’s obligation to immediately inform the counselor, dean, etc. if a test or major graded assignment is planned for that period.

· The student should then request that the appointment be rescheduled.

· Failure to do so will result in the absence being considered unexcused.

· Such an absence will count towards loss of credit and make-up privileges will be forfeited.

Monitor the Number Of Absences In Each Class

· Throughout the school year, it is the responsibility of the student and parent(s) to monitor closely the number of absences, which have been accumulated in each course.

· When a student anticipates an absence from school or from a particular class for any reason, it is very important that the student and the parent consider carefully the necessity of the absence, taking into consideration the current number of accumulated absences and their potential impact on loss of credit in the course.

· Students and parents should contact the appropriate assistant dean about questions regarding the current number of accumulated absences in a specific class, or in reference to discrepancies in types of absences on attendance correspondence that is mailed home.

Certification Of Chronic Illness

· During an appeal for reinstatement of credit, the Appeals Board may request confirmation from a doctor to explain specific and frequent absences, which occurred due to medical reasons.

· Students and parents are advised to monitor the number of absences, which have accumulated because of medical reasons.

· When absences for medical reasons are frequent, it may be advisable to seek documentation from a doctor that a chronic illness exists.

· Presentation of verified information regarding chronic illness and specific dates of absence will strengthen a student’s case in an appeal for reinstatement of credit.

· Just as with parent notes, doctor’s notes need to specifically address dates of absences, and may not be “blanket excuses” for all absences which have occurred over a period a time. Such information must be presented on going and not at the end of a course.

Loss of Credit

· A student will lose credit in a course when the number of accumulated absences exceeds the number of permitted absences.

· When a student has lost credit, the administrator/assistant dean responsible for the student’s attendance will review the record with the student and the parent. The student and the parent will receive a written copy of the appeals procedure.

· The student will be instructed to attend class, and the procedure to appeal the loss of credit will be explained.

· When credit is lost, the student is expected to attend the class. In addition, consistent attendance following loss of credit strengthens a student’s appeals case.

· A letter grade will appear on the transcript even though credit is lost. All courses require a passing grade for the student to move to the next level.

Excessive “Class Cutting” Following Loss Of Credit

Students who flagrantly disregard the intent of the Staples High School Attendance Policy and continue to cut a class(s) after loss of credit, may be removed from that class with a final grade of Withdrawn (W). The administrator responsible for the student, after consultation with the teacher, will determine under what circumstances this action will be taken.

Right Of Appeal

The Attendance Policy is not designed to deny credit to students who, through no fault of their own, were unable to attend school or a class due to a legitimate illness or other condition beyond the student’s/parents’ control. In January and June, students who have lost credit will have an opportunity to appeal to have credit reinstated. A student’s decision to appeal must take into consideration the student’s total attendance record. Any absences, other than excused absences will weaken the student’s appeal. Absences which remain unexcused and undocumented as well as chronic absences will also weaken the student’s appeal. Students wishing to appeal must follow the appeals procedure. If students do not have valid reasons for appealing loss of credit, they should contact their counselor to identify what options are available.

The Appeals Board

· Composed of three teachers and the administrator responsible for the student.

· Hears the student’s case and makes a decision on whether to reinstate credit.

· An Appeals Board decision is final.

· The decision will only be reviewed by the Principal as a result of the introduction of additional information, which was NOT presented to the Appeals Board.

· A request for review must state the intention of the review, and any new evidence in a written statement by the student and the parent(s).

· Students wishing to appeal to the Principal must do so within two (2) schools days following the receipt of the decision of the Appeals Board.

· A students must appear in person before the Appeals Board. Failure to do so will be an automatic denial of restoration of credit.

CALENDAR FOR STUDENTS

Note: This calendar was prepared July 1, 2002. During the course of the year dates may be changed. If weather conditions or other emergencies cause cancellations, school will remain in session until students complete 182 days.

AUGUST:

28 Gr. 9 Orientation Day; Grades 10-12 – Mini-Arena

28 Freshman Parents, Café at 7:30 p.m.

29 All classes begin; special schedule

SEPTEMBER:

2 Labor Day; No School

5 Back-To-School Night, Gr. 9, 7:30 p.m.

11 Senior Guidance meetings, period 4

12 Class Meetings, special schedule

12 Back-to-School Night, gr. 10 - 12, 7:30 p.m.

16 Yom Kippur, No School

27 End of IPR period

OCTOBER:

2 College Panel, Cafeteria, 7:30 p.m.

4 IPR’s mailed home

9 Class Meetings, special schedule

9 Freshman Parents, Café 7:30 p.m.

14 Columbus Day, No School

17 College Financial Aid Workshop, Cafeteria, 7:30 p.m.

19 P.S.A.T. 8:00 a.m.

NOVEMBER:

1 Last day: First quarter

2 S.A.T., 8:00 a.m.

4 First day: Second quarter

5 Election Day, No school for students

8,9 Staples Players major production 8:00 p.m.

13 Grade cards mailed home

15,16 Staples Players major production 8:00 p.m.

26 Class Meetings, special schedule

27 Dismissal: 11:40 a.m.; Periods 8, 3, 2 & 6

28,29 Thanksgiving Recess, No School

30 WWPT Antique Show

DECEMBER:

1 WWPT Antique Show

6 End of IPR period

7 S.A.T., 8:00 a.m.

11 Freshman Parents, Cafeteria, 7:30 p.m.

13 I.P.R.’s mailed home

13,14 Candlelight Concert

17 Class Meetings, special schedule

23-31 Holiday Recess, No School

JANUARY:

1 New Year’s Day, No School

3 College Freshman Panel, periods 5 & 6

17 All classes meet, special schedule

20 Martin Luther King Day, No School

21 Exams 1 & 4; Appeals Board – Seniors, 1:30 p.m.

22 Exams 2 & 3; Appeals Board – Juniors, 1:30 p.m.

23 Exams 6 & 7; Appeals Board – Sophomores, 1:30 p.m.

23 Freshman Parents, Café, 7:30 p.m.

24 Exams 5 & 8; Appeals Board – Freshmen, 1:30 p.m.

27 Make-up Exams

28 Last Day: first semester, All classes meet, special schedule

29 First day: third quarter, second semester; Homeroom – 7:30-7:40 a.m.

29 Eighth Grade Parents, Cafeteria. 7:30 p.m.

FEBRUARY:

1,2 WWPT Antique Show

5 Curriculum Night “Open-House” 7:30 p.m.

7 Report cards mailed home

18 Presidents Day, No School

17-21 Winter Recess, No School

MARCH:

6 Class meetings, special schedule

7 End of IPR period

7,8 Staples Players major production, 8:00 p.m.

14 IPR’s mailed home

14,15 Staples Players major production, 8:00 p.m.

21 No School for Students

APRIL:

2 Freshman Parents Cafeteria, 7:30 p.m.

4 Last day: Third quarter

7 First day: Fourth quarter

9 CAPTest Parents Workshop, Café, 7:30 p.m.

14-18 Spring Recess, No School

21 No school for students

23 Grade cards mailed home

23 Class Meetings, special schedule

29 CAPTests

30 CAPTests

30 Sophomore Parents, Cafeteria, 7:30 p.m.

MAY:

1 CAPTests

3 S.A.T. 8:00 a.m.

6-8 CAPTests

5-16 AP tests

16 End of IPR period

22 Class meetings, special schedule

23 IPR’s mailed home

26 Memorial Day, No School

28 Early dismissal: periods 8, 3, 2 & 6, Eighth Grade Visitation

JUNE:

4 Freshman Parents, Cafeteria, 7:30 p.m.

6 All classes meet, special schedule

7 S.A.T. 8:00 a.m.

Tentative end-of-year schedule:

9 Exams 8 & 5; Appeals Board - Seniors, 1:30 p.m.

10 Exams 7 & 6; Appeals Board – Juniors, 1:30 p.m.

11 Exams 3 & 2; Appeals Board – Sophomores, 1:30 p.m.

12 Exams 4 & 1; Appeals Board – Freshmen, 1:30 p.m.

13 Registration, Grades 11 & 10; Make-up Exams

16 Registration, Grades 10 & 9

25 Grade cards mailed home

DAILY SCHEDULE

DIRECTIONS TO FCIAC SCHOOLS

(FAIRFIELD COUNTY INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETIC CONFERENCE)

Brien McMahon High School: Highland Ave. Norwalk, 852-9488

I-95 to Exit 14. Turn right off ramp to light at Post Rd. (Rt.1). Turn left onto Post Rd. to light (approx. 2 blocks). Turn left onto Scribner Ave. Cross over Thruway and follow to end of street. Turn right onto Flaxhill and left (approx. 2 blocks) onto Highland Ave. The school is on the left.

Broadview JHS: Hospital Ave. (9^th Grade Teams)

I-84 to Exit 5. Go straight at light. Turn right at 3^rd light (Union Savings Bank on right). Go to next light and turn right onto Tamarack Ave. Go to next light and turn left onto Hospital Ave. School is on right just past hospital.

Central JHS: (9^th Grade Teams)

I-95 to Exit 4. Turn right onto field Pt. Rd. Follow past Rt. 1 to Indian Rock. School is on left.

-or-

Merritt Pkwy. to Exit 31. Go south on North St. to traffic light at Fairfield. Turn left on Fairfield to Field Pt. Rd., Indian Rock, Stanwich Rd. (all come in together).

Cubeta Stadium: Scalzi Park (Baseball). I-95 to Exit 8.

Go straight at light (Elm St.) on North State. Follow to Washington. Turn right on Washington. Go approx. 2 miles. Park is on left. Turn left at light (Bridge St.). Park entrance is on left.

-or-

Merritt Pkwy. to Exit 34. Go south on High Ridge Rd. approx. 2 miles. Turn right after passing Lord & Taylor onto Washington Blvd. Turn right at third light into Scalzi Park.

Danbury High School: Clapboard Ridge Rd., Danbury, 797-4800

Merritt Pkwy. to Exit 40 (Rt.7) or Rt. 133 (Wilton Rd.) to Rt. 7. Go north on Rt. 7 to I-84. Go east on I-84 (toward Hartford) to Exit 5. Follow ramp and road down hill to first light (Main St.). Turn left onto Main passing under I-84 to Clapboard Ridge (road Y’s - follow to the right). Proceed up Clapboard approx. 1 mile. School is on the right.

Darien High School: High School Lane, Darien, 655-3981

I-95 to Exit 10. Follow ramp to Stop sign and turn right onto Noroton Ave. Go approx. 1 mile and turn right onto High School Lane. School is on the left.

Eastern JHS: (9^th Grade Teams)

Merritt Pkwy. to Exit 34. Go south on Long Ridge. Turn right on Stillwater. Stay on Stillwater until Palmer Hill Rd. Turn right (Hubbard Heights Golf Course on left). Take Palmer Hill Rd. to stop sigh. Turn left on Havemeyer Lane. Continue to Post Rd. ((Putnam Ave.) Turn right and go to Riverside Ave. (5 traffic lights). Turn left and go 5 blocks. Turn left on Hendrie Ave. School is short way on left.

Fairfield High School: Melville Ave., Fairfield 255-8534

I-95 to Exit 24 (Black Rock Tnpk). Pass under Turnpike following center lane to left. Turn right onto Black Rock Tnpk. Go to second light and turn right on Knapps Hwy. School is approx. 1 mile on left.

Greenwich High School: Hillside Rd., Greenwich, 625-8000

I-95 to Exit 4. Go north to Post Rd. Turn left onto Post Rd. and go 2 short blocks to Hillside Rd. Turn right onto Hillside. School is on the left.

Hillcrest Middle School: same as Trumbull High School

Madison Middle School:

Merritt Pkwy to Exit 49 North. Turn left Lake Ave. Go to end of Lake Ave. and turn left onto Madison Ave. School is on left approx. ½ mile.

-or-

I-95 to Exit 27A onto Rt. 8-25. Follow Rt. 25 to left (Danbury). Exit 9 turn left onto Daniels Farms Rd. Turn right at light onto Churchill Rd. At next traffic light (Main St.) turn right. Go to next traffic light (Lake Ave.) and turn left. Follow Lake until it ends at Madison Ave. Turn left on Madison Ave. School is short distance on left.

Mead Park (V. Baseball): Pass New Canaan H.S. to stop sign. Turn right on Old Stamford Rd. Go 1 mile to Park St. Turn left on Park St. for .3 miles. Mead Park on left.

New Canaan High School: Farm Rd., New Canaan, 972-1852

Merritt Pkwy. to Exit 37. Go north on South Rd. approx. 1 mile. Turn left at light onto Farm Rd. School is on left.

Football Field: South Rd. on right before light at Farm Rd.

Conner Field (V. Soccer, Fr. Baseball): South Rd. Turn right at light on Farm Rd. Field by Saxe JHS.

Norwalk High School: Strawberry Hill Ave. and County St., 838-4481.

Post Rd. to Strawberry Hill. Turn left 1 block to light. Turn left for school. Turn right (1 block) to football field.

Ridgefield High School: North Salem Rd., 438-3785.

Merritt Pkwy. to Exit 40 (Rt. 7) or Wilton Rd. to Rt. 7 North on Rt. 7 to Rt. 33 (Wilton Cntr.). Turn left following signs to Ridgefield. Turn right onto Mail St. passing through town to light at North Salem Rd. (Rt. 116). Turn left. School is approx. 4 miles north of town.

-or-

Weston Rd. to Rt. 57 into Georgetown. Turn right on Rt. 7. Left on Rt. 102 into Ridgefield. Turn right on Main St. and follow as above.

Rogers Park JHS: ((9^th Grade Teams)

I-84 to Exit 5. Turn right at light onto Main St. Follow through town. Rogers Park is at end of street. Enter park. School is on right approx. 300 yards. Field is in the same area.

-or-

Merritt Pkwy. to Exit 31. Go south on North St. to Fairfield Rd. to Hillside.

Rowayton School Field (softball): Continue past Brien McMahon to end of street. Turn right and go ½ block to light. Run left. The field is to the right of the school just after turn.

Stamford Catholic High School: Newfield Ave., Stamford, 322-3402

I-95 to Exit 8. Turn right onto Elm. Continue straight onto Grove, which becomes Strawberry Hill for approx. 2 miles and then becomes Newfield Ave. School is another ½ mile on the left.

-or-

Merritt Pkwy. To Exit 35. Go south on High Ridge Rd. approx. ¼ mile to Vine. Turn left onto Vine to Newfield Ave. Turn right on Newfield. School is on right.

Stamford High School: Strawberry Hill Ave., 977-4223

I-95 to Exit 8. Turn right at end of ramp onto Elm. Continue straight onto Grove. At fork in road becomes Strawberry Hill. School is on right just after light at fork.

Boyle Football Stadium: behind high school.

Trumbull High School: Strobel Rd., Trumbull 452-5150.

Merritt Pkwy. to exit 49 North (Danbury, Rt. 25). Stay on Rt. 25 to Exit 9 (Daniels Farms Rd.). Turn right at end of ramp onto Daniels Farms Rd. Go to top of hill and take right after Hillcrest Middle School onto Strobel Rd. School is on right.

Waveny Park: (V/JV Softball) Merritt to South Rd. (Rt. 124). Go north as for high school. Approx. .4 miles from Merritt turn left into Park.

Western JHS: (9^th Grade Teams)

I-95 to Exit 2. Follow Frontage Rd. to 2^nd light and turn right onto Byron Rd. Go to 3^rd street and turn right on Richland. School on Richland.

Westhill High School: Roxbury Rd., Stamford 977-4927

Merritt Pkwy. to Exit 34. Go south on Long Ridge Rd. Roxbury is a sharp right.

Wilton High School: Danbury Rd., Wilton 762-0381

Merritt Pkwy. to Exit 40 (Rt. 7) or Wilton Road. To Rt. 7. Go north on Rt. 7 passing Wilton Cntr. School is approx. 1 mile past Center on left.

DIRECTIONS TO OTHER ATHLETIC LOCATIONS

Golf

Hap Halohan Tournament, Wee Burn Country club, 410 Hollow Tree Ridge Rd., Darien

I-95 to Exit 10. Turn right onto Noroton Ave. Turn right at second traffic light onto Middlesex Ave. After 1 mile, sigh on left “Wee Burn C.C.” Turn left onto Hanson Rd. Clubhouse ahead on right.

-or-

Merritt Pkwy. to Exit 37. Turn toward Darien. Go 1 ½ miles. Take Middlesex Rd. (on the right). Continue 1 mile. Turn right onto Hanson Rd. Club ahead on right (approx. ½ mile).

Ice Hockey

Darien Ice Rink: Old Kings Highway, Darien

I-95 to Exit 13. Turn right off ramp onto Post Rd. Turn left on Post Rd. and left again onto Old King’s Highway.

Dorothy Hamill Ice Rank: Sherman Ave., Greenwich

I-95 to Exit 2. Turn right off ramp onto Byram Rd. Go approx. ½ mile to top of hill. Turn right onto High School Lane. Rink is on left.

Terry Connors Ice Rink: Cove Island Park, Stamford

I-95 to Exit 9. Turn left off ramp over Turnpike. Go to bottom of long hill and turn right onto Weed Ave. Go to end of Weed Ave. Cove Island Park is facing end of Weed Ave. Take drive on the left into the Park. Terry Connors Rink and Troy Field in Park.

Wonderland Ice Rink: Glenwood Ave., Bridgeport

I-95 to Exit 27A. Go to Exit 5. Turn left at light at end of ramp, follow road up and down hill staying to left. Turn left at bottom of hill onto Glenwood. Follow signs to rink.

Swimming

Darien YMCA: I-95 to Exit 9. Turn left off ramp onto Post Rd. YMCA approx. 2 miles on right.

New Canaan YMCA: Merritt Pkwy. to Rt. 124, Exit 37. Turn left on South Ave. YMCA on right approx. .8 miles.

Ridgefield YMCA: Follow as for High School. Go approx. 2 ½ miles on Rt. 116. Bear right onto Barlow Mountain Rd. At next fork stay left. YMCA on left.

Trumbull: See Hillcrest Middle School.

Wilton YMCA: Across from Wilton High School on Danbury Rd.

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Staples encourages its students to participate in the various extracurricular activities offered. Such participation assures the student’s emotional well being, while discovering new talents and developing the whole person.

ATHLETICS AND INTRAMURALS

Purpose

The purpose of the athletic program is to stimulate boys and girls to develop mutual interests, promote motivations and improve their physical skills. Athletic contests involve considerable time for practices, games, strenuous physical effort and student travel. Each sport is a learning experience, and, as such, entails numerous responsibilities. Students who try out for any sport should be aware of these responsibilities and be willing to assume them.

The coaching staff must authorize overnight get-togethers. Athletic and club initiation rights practices connected with clubs or athletics are expressly prohibited by the school.

Eligibility

To be eligible to participate in extra-curricular activities, a student must receive a passing mark in at least three (3) courses for the preceding marking period. To be eligible for All activities, a student must have received credit in at least three (3) courses at the close of the preceding school year, or have made up that credit in summer school. Additionally, a student must be enrolled in at least six (6) courses to be eligible to participate. Individual teams or activities may establish eligibility requirements that go beyond these minimum standards. It is also necessary to meet the academic and eligibility requirements of both the school and the Connecticut interscholastic Athletic Conference, C.I.A.C.

Health Requirements

To participate in any sport, including try-outs, a student must have a current (within one year) health assessment. A completed health assessment form MUST BE on file in the Nurse’s Office.

Locker Use

Lockers are provided for the purpose of giving students a convenient place to store clothing, books and other articles necessary for the student’s use during the school day. Students are responsible for maintaining the interior of their lockers. The student has no property interest in any locker. Lockers are subject to reasonable search and seizure with probable cause. All physical education students and athletes must use a locker and purchase a school lock when using the locker room. Students should not bring valuables to the locker room.

C.I.A.C. Regulations

The Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference governs all competitive sports of member schools. The following is a partial list of its regulations:

· An Athlete shall not have reached her/his 19^th birthday prior to September 1 of the current year.

· An athlete shall have passed three (3) academic credits or the equivalent at the end of the last regular marking period and must be carrying at least four (4) academic credits in the current year. She/he must also satisfy any local eligibility requirements.

· An athlete may not participate on any organized outside sports team in which she/he will compete in school during the school season.

· All Games in which an ineligible player competes shall be counted as defeats for her/his team, regardless of the true results.

Participation is a privilege

In order to participate in all extra-curricular activities, students must exemplify good citizenship. Participation in such activities is a privilege not a right. Violation of the school’s Code of Conduct regarding the use of drugs or alcohol will impact that privilege. In addition to receiving the disciplinary consequences as discussed in the Code of Conduct, violators of school rules may become ineligible to participate in all extra-curricular and school sponsored activities. A school sponsored activity includes, but is not limited to, a prom, a graduation ceremony, an athletic event, and homecoming.

Athletic and club initiation rights, practices connected with clubs or athletics, are expressly prohibited by the school.

Violations of the Athletic Standards

Violations will be treated with consideration for the individual, the team, the school and the family. Penalties for violations may involve temporary suspension, permanent suspension for the remainder of the current season or year, ineligibility for future teams and/or the cancellation of awards, and will be gone for a season, quarter, semester, year – whatever is warranted.

Interscholastic Awards

All teams, unless otherwise noted, participate in FCIAC (Fairfield County Interscholastic Athletic Conference) and CIAC (Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference) competition.

The Staples Athletic Department will offer a very competitive and comprehensive program for all students. The Interscholastic Program will include 55 different teams. A breakdown by season, starting dates and levels follows:

Interscholastic Sports Events

FALL SEASON HEAD COACH

Aug. 24 Boys Football: Varsity, JV, Freshman Marcellino Petroccio

(conditioning Aug. 20)

Aug. 24 Girls Cross Country Lawrence Sidney

Aug. 24 Boys Cross Country Laddie Lawrence

Aug. 24 Field Hockey: Varsity, JV, Freshman

Aug. 24 Girls Soccer: Varsity, JV. Freshman

Aug. 24 Boys Soccer: Varsity, JV, Freshman Jeff Lea

Aug. 24 Girls Swimming & Diving Mike Laux

Aug. 24 Girls Volleyball: Varsity, JV, Freshman Bruce Betts

Aug. 24 Coed Cheerleading Varsity Shelley Moll

WINTER SEASON

Nov. 25 Girls Basketball; Varsity, JV, Freshman -Ed Huydic

Nov. 25 Ice Hockey: Varsity Ralph Unker

Dec. 2 Boys Basketball; Varsity, JV, Freshman-Jason Kirck

Dec. 2 Boys Indoor Track Laddie Lawrence

Dec. 2 Girls Indoor Track Peter VanHagen

Dec. 2 Boys & Girls Ski Teams Richard Healing

Dec. 2 Boys Swimming & Diving Matt Pohlman

Dec. 2 Wrestling: Varsity Chip Stevens/K.Lippert

Dec. 2 Coed Cheerleading Varsity, JV Shelley Moll

Dec. 2 Girls Gymnastics Todd Bucaro

SPRING SEASON

Mar. 24 Boys Baseball: Varsity, JV, Freshman Brian Ruther

(conditioning Mar. 17)

Mar. 24 Boys Golf: Varsity, JV Tom Owen

Mar. 24 Girls Golf: Varsity, JV Bob Byiteck

Mar. 24 Boys Lacrosse: Varsity, JV, Freshman Dick Linnell

Mar. 24 Girls Lacrosse: Varsity, JV Tony Coccoli

Mar. 24 Girls Softball: Varsity, JV ,Freshman Jacqui Sheftz

Mar. 24 Girls Tennis Casey Sandor

Mar. 24 Boys Tennis

Mar. 24 Girls Outdoor Track Peter VanHagen

Mar. 24 Boys Outdoor Track Laddie Lawrence

Mar. 24 Boys Volleyball: Varsity, JV Bruce Betts

Certified Athletic Trainer

Dawn Richitelli is the Certified Athletic Trainer for all seasons.

Intramural Sports

For those students interested in less competitive sports, the Staples Athletic Department offers a very popular intramural program. These activities are offered to all students regardless of ability. A fully operational fitness center is available after school for all SHS students.

Fall Season: Winter Season Spring Season

Fitness Center Fitness Center Fitness Center

Open Gym Basketball Water Polo

Tennis Open Gym

Personal Trainer – Phil Halliwell is our Certified Personal Trainer on staff in the Fitness Center.

CLUBS AND ACTIVITIES

Staples attempts to provide a wide range of clubs and activities. Students are strongly encouraged to become active in those clubs and activities that seem to appeal to their interests. If a group of students demonstrates an interest in establishing a new club or activity, they should take their request to one of the administrators for guidance as to the steps that should be taken. Participation in extra-curricular activities is contingent upon students maintaining good standing in the school community.

American Field Service (AFS) C. Kochefko

Amnesty International J. Cosell

Asian Cultural Society C. Gans

Astronomy Club K. Sullivan

Best Buddies S. Dressler

Class Committees Class Advisors

Seniors – A. Addicks

Juniors – M. Cota

Sophomores –

Freshmen – M. Von Ohlen

Culinary Arts Club C. Gans

Debate Club

Diversity R.Rogers

E.S.O.L. A. Woldring

French Club C.Sandor

Fun Club S. Muson

Gay/Straight Alliance Club C.Fray

German Club C. Kochefko

Inklings (school newspaper M. Fulton, S. Rexford

International AFS C. Kochefko

Jazz Band N. Mariconda

Key Club H. Ballesteros

Latin Club D. Sullivan

Law Club S. Muson

Math Club

Model UN Club J. Chiappetta

Orphenians A. Lipson

Peer Advisor C. Rivera, M. Newman

QED (Academic Magazine) J. Chiappetta

Snowboarding Club M.L .Huisking

Soundings (Literary Magazine) M. Fulton

Spanish Club H. Ballesteros

Staples Orientation Committee (SOC) C. Rivera

Stapleite (School Yearbook) S. Dodd

Student Assembly J. Giudice

Staples Players D. Roth

Students At Work M. L. Huisking

Students for Environmental Awareness C. Duffy, K. Sullivan

Students Supporting AIDS Awareness C .Fray

Women’s’ Issues J. Boland

WWPT - FM Radio – Staples radio station J. Honeycutt

Youth Ending Hunger J. Rossi

NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY

Membership Requirements for the National Honor Society:

A student must exhibit and demonstrate all of the following qualities:

1. Scholarship: Maintaining an overall GPA of 3.7.

2. Character: Possessing the attributes of responsibility, good conduct, initiative, and desirable qualities of behavior, as assessed by the entire faculty.

3. Leadership; Actively participating in clubs and activities and viewed as a leader, helping other, being active in discussions, etc.

4. Service: Rendering his/her service in and or out of school, having completed a minimum of 30 hours during the school year.

The list of specific indicators of character, service, and leadership that have been established by the National Honor Society is available in the Guidance Office for student review.

Students will be initially considered for membership if they meet the GPA requirement and the character assessment by the faculty. It is important to understand that students do not “apply” for membership in the National honor society, but rather they are selected by the faculty. As part of the selection process, students will be required to prove their leadership and service commitments. All information ascertained about students will be verified and will remain confidential. It is recognized here that the selection process contains both objective and subjective assessments.

A faculty council appointed by the principal annually is responsible for implementing the National Honor society selection process. Student selection will be made by a majority vote of the council.

NATIONAL LANGUAGE HONOR SOCIETIES

Member selection and induction at Staples High School will take place during fall semester of each year. See the World Language Coordinator for the specific requirements for French, German, Latin and Spanish.

HAVE A QUESTION ABOUT…? FIRST TRY CALLING…

STAPLES:

Academic questions (in order): Student’s Teacher

Counselor

Division Coordinator

Principal/Assistant Principal

Accountabilities Mrs. Carroll, Main Office

Address/phone/etc. changes Mrs. Birkmaier, Main Office

Attendance, gr. 9,11 Mr. Farnen

Attendance, gr. 10,12 Mr. Franzis

Attendance issues Dean’s Office

Classes: homework, tests, grades Teacher

College/Career Information College/Career Center

Communication, Tuesday News Mrs. Birkmaier, Main Office

Curriculum Teacher; Division Coordinator

Discipline Teacher; Dean; Principal

Driver Education Sign-up Continuing Education Office

Field Trips Teacher; Division Coordinator

Good Driver Insurance Discount Form Pupil Services’ Counselor

Staples Testing Lee Littrell

Independent Study Forms Pupil Services’ Counselor

Insurance Forms (student) Main Office

Interscholastic questions (in order) Coach of Team; Athletic Director; Principal

Job Bank College/Career Center

Library Librarian, Mrs. Jordan

Lockers Mrs. Birkmaier, Main Office

Lunch: Tickets, Free/Reduced Assistant Principal

Menu Cafeteria Service

Music: Lessons, Concerts, Equip. Teacher; Fine Arts Coordinator

Parking, Student Mrs. Romano, Dean’s Office

Pass/No Record Forms Pupil Services’ Office

Pay Telephones Hall 7-8; Fieldhouse; Front of school

Scheduling/Course Change Pupil Services’ Counselor

Scholarships, summer programs Pupil Services’ Office

School philosophy and goals Principal

Student Activities Mrs. Carroll, Main Office

Support Staff: Aides, Secretaries, Custodians, Principal

Tests: PSAT, SAT, ACH Pupil Services’ Office

Transcripts Mrs. Ketley, College/Career Center

Working Papers College/Career Center

SYSTEM-WIDE:

Adult Ed or Summer School Continuing Education Principal 341-1206

Buildings/Grounds Director of Facilities 341-1271

Curriculum Assistant Superintendent 341-1213

Employment Opportunities Personnel Manager 341-1023

General Policies Assistant to Superintendent 341-1012

Special Education Programs Director of Pupil Services 341-1253

Standardized Testing Testing Coordinator 341-1487

Transportation Transportation Director 341-1754

Check the system-wide website: www.westport.k12.ct.us

GRADUATION ACTIVITIES

AWARDS ASSEMBLY

Major awards are presented at an awards assembly in June. Some of the most prestigious awards are:

HIGH HONORS DINNER

This dinner is given in honor of the 10-11 seniors achieving the highest academic rank. Families and invited administrators attend.

BACCALAUREATE

This is an evening for seniors, their families and the community to come together to reflect. The Salutatorian and a chosen parent are keynote speakers.

GRADUATION

This is the ceremony held to award diplomas to those seniors who successfully complete all academic requirements. The class Valedictorian speaks at graduation.

HEALTH

School nurses

Staples has the full time service of a nurse during school hours. In addition to seeing all sick and injured students, the nurse administers or supervises tests for vision and hearing. Parents are notified when any deviation from the norm is found. Complete and confidential health records are maintained by the nurse for each student.

Communicating With The School Concerning A Student’s Health

The school nurse should be notified of changes in the student’s status, illness, injury, or hospitalization.

· Parents/guardians should call the school office if their children are absent because of illness.

· The school requires a doctor’s note to excuse a student from gym for more than three days.

· Parents/guardian should consult the school psychologist if they anticipate a student may be absent for medical reasons for three weeks or longer. The school psychologist will help to arrange medical certification and appropriate home-based instruction by a qualified teacher. Please contact the psychologist in advance of the absence, if possible, or as soon as possible in an emergency situation.

Health Assessments Requirements For School Entry

In accordance with Connecticut General Statues, Section 10-206, the Westport Board of Education requires each student to have a “health assessment” within twelve (12) months prior to entry into the Westport school system. The mandated health assessment MUST be performed by a legally qualified practitioner of medicine (M.D. or D.O.) who is licensed in this or another state, or by a nurse practitioner or physician assistant licensed to practice in this state.

The health assessment must be documented on the State Department of Education’s required HAR-3 or “blue form,” and must include, but is not limited to, the following:

1. State-mandated immunizations;

2. Hemoglobin or hematocrit;

3. Blood pressure, height and weight;

4. Vision, auditorium, gross dental and postural screenings; and

5. Risk assessment for tuberculosis (by healthcare provider). If student is in a high-risk group, a Mantoux test for tuberculosis sensitivity must have been administered at least 48 hours before school entry, since it takes that long before the results can be determined.

All preschool, kindergarten and new students must present the completed and signed health assessment form, including documentation of state-mandated immunization, prior to school entry. A scanned version of the HAR-3 will be accepted only if it is printed on blue paper (for legal and record maintenance purposes). Please return the completed form to the school nurse’s office no later than August 22, 2002. Families who may require financial assistance in order to obtain a health assessment for their child should contact the school nurse.

If a parent or legal guardian (or student who is 18 years old or an emancipated minor) objects on religious grounds to:

· The state-mandated health assessment, a signed statement to that effect must be submitted to the school nurse prior to school entry.

· Immunizations, a signed copy of the Immunization Exemptions and Exclusions-From-School form must be submitted to the school nurse prior to school entry.

If an immunization is contraindicated for medical reasons, a written statement from the physician, including the reason for deferment, must be submitted to the school nurse prior to school entry.

The HAR-3 form is reviewed by the school nurse and filed in the student’s confidential school health record. If you have questions or confidentiality concerns, please speak with the school nurse.

Health Assessments - Screenings

School nurses are responsible for yearly screenings for:

Vision: Students in Kindergarten through Grade 6, Grade 9, and all new students.

Hearing: Pure-tone (audiometric) hearing tests will be conducted for students in Kindergarten through Grade 3, and Grades 5 and 8. The school audiologist shall perform all impedance tympanometry testing if needed.

Scoliosis: Students in Grade 5 through Grade 9.

Lice: Students in Kindergarten through Grade 4. Will be done early in the fall, after spring recess, and as needed. Grades 5 through 12, as needed.

Parents will be notified by mail concerning students who need further evaluation by a physician. Parents should return the referral form to the school nurse after it has been completed by a physician.

Please notify the school nurse if you do not with to have your children participate in these screenings.

Leaving School Because Of Illness

The school nurse will ask a parent/guardian to pick up any student who becomes ill during school hours. In addition, the school nurse may ask the parent/guardian to remove a student from school if the student suffers an illness or injury that, in the professional judgment of the school nurse, needs to be observed at home or by a medical doctor. Examples include:

· Seizures

· Severe asthmatic episodes with respiratory distress

· Head injury

· A systemic allergic reaction

· Communicable illnesses

· Injury requiring sutures

· Fractures

· Soft tissue injuries

· Dental injuries

· Any injury or illness that, in the professional judgment of the school nurse, requires transportation to an emergency room.

Students must not leave the building because of illness without authorization. Parents/guardians must sign students out of school.

Immunizations Requirements

In accordance with Connecticut General Statutes, Sec. 10-204a, all students must be protected by adequate immunization. Students must show compliance with the immunization requirements by documentation form a physician or local health agency before they may attend school. This rule applies to initial entry into school (all grades, including preschool, kindergarten) and for return to 7^th and 8^th grade.

Month, Day and Year must be recorded for each dose:

1. DTP – Five (5) doses, Diphtheria, tetanus, Pertussis (whooping cough), unless the last dose was given after the fourth birthday, in which case four is adequate.

2. POLIO – Four (4) doses unless the third dose was given after the fourth birthday, in which case three may be accepted.

3. MEASLES – Two (2) doses, the first one given on or after the first birthday and a second dose prior to entering kindergarten.

4. MUMPS – One (1) dose given on or after the first birthday.

5. RUBELLA – One (1) dose given on or after the first birthday.

6. HEMOPHILUS INFLUENZAE TYPE B (HIB) – One (1) dose given at fifteen months or older, but nor required after age five.

7. VARICELLA (Chicken Pox) – One (1) dose given on or after the student’s first birthday and before the thirteenth birthday, OR two (2) doses given at least 4 weeks apart if the first dose was given on or after the thirteenth birthday OR a signed statement from the student’s physician indicating that the student has already had Chicken Pox. All students born January 1, 1997 or later entering preschool or kindergarten and all students entering the 7^th grade must show proof of immunization OR immunity to varicella. Proof of immunity is a signed statement from the student’s physician indicating that the student has had a confirmed case of Chicken Pox or confirmation by specific blood test conducted by a certified laboratory.

8. HEPATITIS B – (HBV) – Three (3) doses, the first two doses given at least four weeks apart, followed by a third dose given four to six months after the initial dose. All students entering the 7^th grade must show proof of at least one dose of Hepatitis B vaccine and all students entering the 8^th grade must show proof of three doses of Hepatitis B vaccine.

TUBERCULOSIS TEST – A Mantoux test for sensitivity to tuberculosis is required prior to the entry into school of any student who is identified as “high risk” for possible exposure to tuberculosis. Determination of high risk must be made by the physician, advanced practice registered nurse, or physician assistant who performs the required health assessment for school entry, according to guidelines of the Connecticut State Department of Public Health. If the school medical advisor questions a low-risk determination, the medical advisor may require the student to have a Mantoux test prior to school entry.

Staying Home From School

To safeguard the health of all students, we ask parents to monitor their children for possible communicable diseases.

Students must stay home from school if they:

· Have a fever of 100.5 degrees of more;

· Have an undiagnosed rash;

· Are vomiting;

· Have more than one episode of diarrhea;

· Have copious yellow/green mucus discharge from nose;

· Complain of severe earache, with or without fever;

· Have a severe sore throat with symptoms indicating possible strep throat;

· Have conjunctivitis (pink eye);

· Have head lice;

· Have a communicable illness.

Students must remain home:

· For 24 hours after their temperatures return to normal;

· Until a physician has determined the results of a throat culture for strep;

· For 24 hours after their first dose of medication with a diagnosis of strep throat, to prevent the spread of infection to other students;

· For 24 hours after vomiting has ended;

· Until treatment for conjunctivitis is initiated;

· Until they are nit free after treatment for head lice.

Student Medication

For students who must take medication during school hours - including medication prescribed by a physician for short-term use (antibiotics), daily medication, medication needed only occasionally, over-the-counter medication, and medication for emergencies (epi-pens and inhalers). The parents/guardians must provide the school nurse with written orders signed by the parents/guardians and by the physician, advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), or physician’s assistant (PA) authorizing the nurse to dispense the medication. The order must include:

· The name, strength, and dosage of the prescribed medication;

· Directions for administering the medication;

· The time the medication is to be administered;

· The duration of the order;

· Side effects, if any.

The parent/guardian is responsible for delivering the medication to the school nurse. Do not send any medication to school with a student. The medication must be in its original container, clearly labeled with the student’s name, the physician’s name, the prescription number, the date it was ordered, the name of the medication, its strength, and directions for administering the prescription. Parents must notify the nurse concerning any changes in the prescribed dosage. Forms are available in the nurse’s office. A new form must be provided each school year (including Summer School) for each medication.

Students are not permitted to carry medication at any time while in school. With the approval of the school nurse, middle and high school students may carry and self-administer epi-pens and inhalers if authorized to do so in writing by a physician, and with the permission of their parents(s) guardian(s). Such medication should also be available in the nurse’s office to prevent a potential medical emergency. The nurse cannot keep more than 45 days’ supply of medication at the school at any one time.

The parent or a responsible adult must pick up unused medication within one week of completion or it will be disposed of by the school nurse.

NOTIFICATION OF PARENTS’ AND STUDENTS’ RIGHTS ON STUDENTS’ RECORDS

Federal Government Legislation regarding Privacy Rights of parents and Students require each school system to annually inform parents of information on our student records policy. We are taking this opportunity to let you know some basic aspects of our student record-keeping procedures and policies.

Type Of Education Records Maintained - Who Has Access - For What Reasons:

The Westport Schools maintain three general types of records on students:

Permanent Record

This record includes identifying information, academic achievement (report cards), grade level attained, attendance records, and a record of schools and others to whom transcripts have been sent. These must be stored in a lockable file.

Non-Permanent Records

These records are maintained for special purposes and include health records, disciplinary records, counselor’s records (including standardized aptitude and achievement test scores), social work case studies, school psychologist’s reports, Planning and Placement Team records, Individualized Education Programs, and records outside agencies.

Teachers’ Records

Teachers keep records of the academic work of the students in their classes.

Access

Professional and non-professional staff members who have legitimate educational reason have access to these records.

No other person or agency may have access to a student’s record without written consent from the parent having custody, legal guardian, or students who is over 18. When a parent is divorced or separated, both natural parents have rights of access to a student’s record.

Permanent records only are transferred when a student enrolls in a school outside of Westport. Non-Permanent records transfer requires a parental release.

Test Papers:

Students are entitled to see and obtain, in a timely fashion, a copy of graded test papers administered by Staples teachers, unless the test is a closed, standardized, national or state examination.

Custodian, Procedures For Parental Access To Records, Cost of Reproduction, Location Of Policies:

The principal of each school is the legal custodian of all records in that school. The principal may be contacted regarding parental access to their child’s records.

In most cases, the counselor will be the person to contact to review the Permanent Record and Non-Permanent Student Record. It is customary to set up an appointment in advance to review the records. Parents are entitled to copies of their child’s records. If the record is extensive, there will be a charge for copying the records (actual reproduction cost).

Federal, State and Westport policies regarding student records are available at the Teachers’ Center as well as the Pupil Personnel Services and Special Education office at Staples High School.

Policies for Reviewing and Expunging Records (by School Officials):

All Permanent Records are reviewed thoroughly at transition from one level to the next, at graduation and/or a student/s withdrawal from school. They are updated yearly.

All Non-Permanent Records are reviewed yearly.

Permanent Records are maintained fifty years after a child has graduated or withdrawn from the Westport Schools.

Non-Permanent Records are maintained until three years after a student’s class has graduated from the Westport Schools. At that time, they are destroyed. Special Education Records are maintained six years after a student’s class has graduated from the Westport Schools and are then destroyed.

Policies For Challenging The Contents Of Records

Parent, legal guardian, or student, 28 years or older, may ask for correction or deletion of any incomplete, inaccurate, or inappropriate information in the student’s records. If the designee disagrees, the parent, legal guardian, or student, 28 years or older, has the right to appeal the decision.

A formal appeal procedure exists if a disagreement over content of a record cannot be resolved. The steps include:

· Custodian of the records (the principal in each building);

· Appropriate Assistant superintendent for that level (Assistant Superintendent for Pupil Personnel Services and Special Education is available for consultation and is the System Custodian of Records);

· Superintendent of Schools and Board of Education attorney;

· A Hearing Panel appointed by the Superintendent with parental approval. (Detailed Hearing Rights are available at the Pupil Personnel Services and Special Education Office.)

If the resolution by the Panel is that the information is accurate and should remain in the file, the parents may insert an explanation into the file portraying their opinion.

If a parent is still aggrieved following a Hearing Panel decision, he/she may appeal the decision to the Court of common Pleas.

If you have any questions on Westport’s records policy or your child’s records, please contact your school principal or your child’s counselor.

PARENT – SCHOOL COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP

The home and the school, as partners, share the responsibility to foster constructive communication. Through written reports, conferences, and calls, schools share information about children’s successes and alert parents to concerns and problems. Similarly, we encourage parents to communicate promptly; often problems can be averted through early intervention.

A group of parents and faculty meet throughout the year to identify school and student needs, identify goals, and plan for implementation. All members of the school community are invited to participate or volunteer for specific school improvement projects.

HANDLING PROBLEMS

1. You may wish to encourage children to try to resolve some matters without your direct intervention. Often, discussing a problem with a parent can help children see possible solutions and increase their ability to cope. If the nature of the problem does not lend itself to this approach, by all means call before it intensifies, using lines of communication described below.

2. Your first contact should always be with the teacher if you have questions about your child’s academic progress or about something in a particular class.

3. Academic problems at Staples should be discussed with the teacher and then with the department chairperson if the problem is not resolved.

4. For issues that cut across several classes, or that concern social or emotional adjustment to a school situation or a disciplinary problem, contact your youngster’s counselor, or the Dean at Staples.

5. Special education problems should be discussed first with the teacher and then with the special education coordinator.

6. For issues not settled at an earlier level, or if you have a compliant about a school staff member, you should contact the principal.

7. Problems not resolved at the school level may be referred to the Assistant Superintendent or Deputy Superintendent and, if necessary, to the Superintendent.

8. The Board of Education, while not directly involved with day to day operations, has the authority to consider appeals from decisions of the Superintendent.

MAKING SUGGESTIONS

1. Requests for change at your school should be discussed with the principal.

2. To suggest changes with broader curriculum impact, contact the Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum. 341-1213

3. For system-wide policy issues contact the Assistant to the Superintendent. 341-1012

4. To discuss other system-wide issues or procedures contact the Superintendent. 341-1025

5. The Board of Education ultimately determines system-wide policy. You are encouraged to attend Board meetings. The agenda provides the opportunity for parent and community input on matters before the Board.

PUPIL SERVICES PROGRAMS

CAREER AND VOCATIONAL GUIDANCE

Students have many opportunities for acquiring vocational skills and experiences, both at Staples and at other off-site locations. Specific job-related preparation is offered for students interested in employment after graduation from high school.

CAREER DEVELOPMENT/WORK EXPERIENCE

Students are engaged in a career development/work-experience program which allows them to receive credits in a class and for work for a minimum of 15 hours/week at a paying job. In addition, they do shadowing of adults at a job site.

CHILD STUDY TEAM

This is a team of professional staff that works together to help problem-solve student’s academic emotional needs.

The procedure for referral is: a student, parent, or teacher may request the student’s counselor to make a referral to the child Study Team. A parent is informed of a student’s referral to the team and the outcome of the team’s work.

COLLEGE/CAREER CENTER

Students receive both college admissions information and counseling about appropriate post-secondary learning institutions. College recruitment representatives can set up appointments to meet individual students or small groups here. Videotapes, computer software, and college catalogues are available for student perusal. In addition, career plans and employment opportunities are offered.

COLLEGE FRESHMAN PANEL

This is an opportunity for seniors to discuss college life with Staples graduates who are freshmen at college. This meeting takes place near the Christmas vacation.

COMMUNITY SERVICE CREDIT

Students have an opportunity to earn credit for contributing their time and talent to school and community programs. Activities might include: tutoring in the Learning Centers or working in the Special Education Program, Town Recreation Department, YMCA, Red Cross, etc. Students may make their own arrangements with a volunteer agency. Credits can be earned by enrolling by arrangement with a counselor via an Independent Study Contract. Second semester seniors seeking to earn community service credit must do it through the Senior Option course.

HOMEBOUND TUTORING

A student may be referred for homebound services under the following circumstances:

1. Section 504/IEP: When a Section 504/IEP team recommends homebound services either pending or following an appropriate evaluation for Section 504 or special education eligibility.

2. Medical Only: When it is expected that, for medical reasons, a student will be out of school for at least three consecutive weeks, or has been out of school for 15 consecutive days, and a Section 504/IDEA eligibility evaluation is not indicated. Both a physician’s written recommendation and approval of the nursing supervisor are required.

3. Administration Only: When a student is in expulsion proceedings and is referred by a building administrator.

JOB BANK

The College/Career Center receives requests from local employers needing part-time help; private individuals also place requests for jobs such as baby-sitting and yard work. Information, such as brief description of the job, hours needed, wages and contact person, is compiled and posted at four different locations in the school. If the job request is not filled in 30 days, it is removed from the list. Students may also drop in the College/Career Center and talk with the coordinator concerning specific job requirements. Working papers are available, if needed.

JUNIORS - POST HIGH SCHOOL PLANNING MEETINGS

Counselors meet with juniors during the school day and with their parents in the evening to orient them to the post high school planning process. Each junior is presented with a booklet, A Guide To Post High School Planning. These meetings are held in January and February.

NINTH GRADE ADVISOR PROGRAM

Volunteer ninth graders meet with a faculty advisor in small groups of eight to twelve students. The goals of the program are to increase a sense of caring at Staples and teach and reinforce in students the habits of being successful students. Topics discussed in sessions include getting to know how Staples works, study skills, students’ goals, and issues of concern the students may raise. The program usually operates for one semester but may continue for the full year if students and advisors agree.

PEER ADVISOR PROGRAM

The Peer Advisor Program focuses upon the development of leadership and communication skills in its participants. Students focus on adolescent issues such as alcohol and drug abuse, student advocacy and health issues among others. Applications are available in the Pupil Services Office.

SENIOR OPTIONS

Twelfth graders have the opportunity to participate in unique learning experiences during the second semester of their senior year. Working with a Staples teacher mentor, they can work in the community, perform independent research, and demonstrate knowledge through a final exhibition.

SENIORS - COLLEGE PANEL AND FINANCIAL AID WORKSHOP

These two activities are provided for students and their parents to share information about the college admission process and availability of financial aid. They are held in the evening in the fall.

SMOKING CLINIC

Smoking Clinics are offered after school monthly to review information relative to the harmful effects of tobacco use. Students who are interested in quitting tobacco use are referred to outside agencies to pursue this.

SOPHOMORES – POST HIGH SCHOOL PLANNING MEETINGS

Counselors meet with sophomores during the school day and with their parents in the evening to begin the post high school planning process. These meetings are held during the school year.

STUDENT CENTER

The center, located adjacent to the Cafeteria, is an area dedicated to the well being of students. Students are encouraged to drop in and talk in an informal setting to the Outreach worker and Student Center assistant.

STUDENT GROUP COUNSELING

Group counseling opportunities are offered to students based on their individual needs. Counseling is designed to help students learn to discuss their individual issues, to foster behavioral change, to improve social skills, and to develop confidence and improved self-esteem. Groups offered include an Adoption Support Group, Sibling Connection, Stress Management, New Student Group, and Thin, Myers-Briggs, and a group to explore teen drug use.

Parenting workshops are also offered at each grade level to assist and support parents with respect to their relationships with their children and child rearing.

OFF-CAMPUS PROGRAMS

THE CENTER FOR JAPANESE STUDY ABROAD SCHOOL

This is a regional program based at Brien McMahon High School in Norwalk. Students may attend for the full year or one semester. Students take three classes at the Japanese Center (history, language, and culture) and other courses at Brien McMahon. There is a two-week trip to Japan. Additional information is available in the Pupil Services Office or at Brien McMahon,

852-9488.

REGIONAL VOCATIONAL-TECHNICAL PROGRAMS

Four regional schools, supported largely by state funds, provide both high school and post-high school opportunities in a wide variety of skill trades. These trades include carpentry, masonry, beauty culture, plumbing printing, food services,

fashion design, dressmaking, landscaping, nursery management, farm management, and many others. Additional information may be received from your counselor or by contacting the school directly.

J.M. Wright Technical School - Stamford

Bullard Havens Regional Vocational Technical School - Bridgeport

Center for Vocational Arts - Norwalk

Regional Program in Vocational Agriculture – Trumbull

THE WILTON-WESTPORT ALTERNATIVE NIGHT SCHOOL

This is a program, which allows students at least sixteen years old to complete their education at night. Students must be fully employed during the day. Available for students of Westport and Wilton, this meets in Wilton four nights per week. See your counselor for information.

RESIDENCY

Two proofs of residence are required to enroll a student in the Westport schools. If a parent already has a child in the school system and is bringing in another child, the proof does not need to be redone.

Acceptable proofs are: document establishing home ownership (deed, mortgage, contract of sale, etc.) or rental agreement, plus a second proof indicating that the person actually resides at the property, i.e., driver’s license, utility bill in their name at that address, voter ID.

For unusual situations see “Residency Issues”.

SCHOOL DELAY/CLOSING ANNOUNCEMENTS

The fastest and most complete information on school closings and delays can be obtained by calling 341-1766. If schools are cancelled or delayed, that information is usually on the emergency line (341-1766) by 6:00 a.m.

The radio and TV stations listed below carry announcements of delayed school opening or closing. If the station is not listed, it receives no information from the Westport Public Schools:

WAVZ New Haven 1300 AM WEBE Westport 107.9 FM

WEFX Norwalk 95.9 FM WELI New Haven 960 AM

WEZN Bridgeport 99.9 FM WICC Bridgeport 600 AM

WKHL Stamford 96.7 FM WNLK Norwalk 1350 AM

WRKI Brookfield 95.1 FM WSTC Stamford 1400 AM

WTNH-Channel; 8; WVIT-Channel 30 Cablevision

When we have a two-hour delay in opening Staples High School:

Time Monday and Friday

9:30-10:00 1 3

10:05-10:35 2 2

10:40-11:10 3 8

11:15-11:40 4 1

11:45-1:15 5 4

1:20-1:45 7 5

1:50-2:15 8 6

Time Tuesday Wednesday Thursday

9:30-10:00 6 8 5

10:05-10:55 2 3 8

11:00-11:30 3 2 4

11:35-1:05 1 6 7

1:10-1:40 5 7 6

1:45-2:15 7 4 1

Students and parents are asked NOT to call the school switchboard to obtain this information. Generally, cancellation and delayed opening information is broadcast by 6:00 a.m.

STAPLES HIGH SCHOOL CODE OF CONDUCT

The purposes of implementing a prescriptive student code of conduct are to:

1. Effectively communicate a clear set of expected student behaviors, infractions and consequences to the Staples students, parents and staff, in an easily understood, concise format.

2. Allow for consistent and predictable resolution of behavioral infractions.

3. Reinforce the Staples High School Core Values:

· Cherish the attainment of academic excellence

· Act with respect and speak with kindness to one another

· Respect each person’s right to a safe and productive learning environment

· Protect personal and school property

The Staples Student Code of Conduct is based on the need to:

Balance the rights of the individual and the rights of the entire Staples school

community,

Maintain a safe and orderly environment for the entire Staples community,

Respect personal and public property,

Respect oneself and others,

Communicate a high standard of student conduct,

Have fair and consistent treatment of all students,

Accept personal responsibility,

Establish a progressive set of consequences for repeat offenses.

Within the scope of this policy, it is recognized that traditional consequences have not always brought significant changes in behavior for all students. Within the confines of this policy, it is recognized that latitude and discretion may be necessary in affecting change

with certain students.

While it is impossible to categorize all behaviors that are disruptive of the educational process, the Staples Student Code of Conduct stipulates the most common behavioral infractions, and establishes a range of consequences for each.

When anyone’s rights are violated or someone is not acting according to school rules and regulations, the school administration will take firm action.

Students who are accused of committing an infraction have the right of to an informal hearing; be informed of reasons for disciplinary action; and be given an opportunity to explain the situation. In the event of an emergency, the informal hearing shall be held as soon after the suspension as possible. Parents will be notified of the suspension and

cause as soon as feasible.

Breaches of discipline generally fall into four broad categories depending upon whether the behavior:

1. Disrupts a teaching-learning situation,

2. Injures oneself or others

3. Damages personal or public property, or

4. Violates school regulations and/or state/federal laws.

These categories are not mutually exclusive since the same act can conceivably fall into all four areas. Infractions within each category can range from very minor to very serious.

Disciplinary procedures used at Staples High School range from an informal conferencing to expulsion from school. The procedure to be used depends upon the seriousness of the violation, the specific circumstances of the situation and the individual’s overall pattern of behavior. A series of minor infractions committed by the same student can also constitute a major infraction; as in time it has a demoralizing effect on the general student body and staff. In addition to the usual school procedures, criminal infractions must also be reported

by the school administration to the police.

OFF CAMPUS MISCONDUCT

Students may face disciplinary actions for off-campus conduct that both violates a publicized Board of Education Policy and is seriously disruptive of the educational process.

“Seriously disruptive of the educational process” may include among other factors, the following:

1. Whether the incident occurred within close proximity of a school

2. Whether other students from the school were involved or whether there was any gang involvement

3. Whether the conduct involved violence, threats of violence or the unlawful use of a weapon as defined in Section 29-38

4. Whether the conduct involved alcohol

Students are subject to arrest for any action that violates local, state or federal laws while on school grounds or at school related activities.

Students are prohibited from being on campus during the entire period of an out-of-school suspension. Students who are serving an out-of-school suspension and are found on campus are subject to arrest.

Periods of suspension missed due to school cancellation will be made up on the next scheduled school day.

Periods of in-school suspension due to student illness will be made up on the first day a student returns to school.

DEFINITIONS USED IN THE STAPLES CODE OF CONDUCT

The following definitions used in the Staples Student Code of Conduct are defined in Connecticut Education Laws, Section 233-a.

“Exclusion” means any denial of public school privileges to a pupil for disciplinary

purposes.

“Exclusion: means any denial of public school privileges to a pupil for disciplinary purposes.

“Removal” means an exclusion from a classroom for all or part of a single class period, provided such exclusion shall not extend beyond ninety minutes.

“In-school suspension” means an exclusion from regular classroom activity for no more than five consecutive school days, but not exclusion from school, provided such exclusion not extend beyond the end of the school year in which such in-school suspension was imposed.

“Suspension” means an exclusion from school privileges or from transportation services only for no more than ten consecutive school days, provided such exclusion shall not extend beyond the end of the school year in which such suspension was imposed.

“Expulsion” means an exclusion from school privileges for more than ten consecutive school days and shall be deemed to include, but not be limited to, exclusion from the school to which such pupil was assigned at the time such disciplinary action was taken, provided such exclusion shall not extend beyond a period of one calendar year.

“Emergency” means a situation under which the continued presence of the pupil in school poses such a danger to persons or property or such a disruption of the educational process that hearing may be delayed until a time as soon after the exclusion of such pupil as possible.

“School-sponsored activity” means any activity sponsored, recognized or

authorized by a board of education and includes activities conducted on and off

school property.

DEFINITION OF OTHER DISCIPLINARY CONSEQUENCES

1. “Monitored Study”: Assignment of a student to a supervised study room during some or all of unscheduled school time

2. “Detention”: A one-hour period of time after school. Detention will be held twice weekly from 2:30 to 3:30 PM. Any student arriving after 2:30 will not be admitted and will report to the Dean on the following day.

· Failure to report to a scheduled detention will result in additional consequences including two additional detentions or in-school suspension

· Students will be given 24 hours notice of a detention in order to arrange for transportation home, as applicable.

· Students are responsible for their own transportation from detention.

The following are not allowed in the detention room:

Food or beverages of any kind

Any type of walkman, disc man, radio or entertainment device

Talking

Sleeping

Use of phones or lockers

1. Any type of inappropriate behavior may result in dismissal from detention. Any student who is dismissed from detention is to report to the Dean on the following day. Any student dismissed from detention is subject to further consequences including an additional 2 detentions or suspension.

2. Work, team practices and games, club meetings and activities, among other things, are not valid reasons for missing detention.

3. Detentions may not be rescheduled unless a valid emergency arises.

4. Students not in school on the day they are to serve a detention will be

automatically scheduled for the next scheduled detention.

In unusual situations, where the gravity of the infraction is so great, the school administration reserves the right to administer consequences beyond the identified range.

Behaviors Resulting in Monitored Study, Detention or In-School Suspension (ISS)

Behavior

Range of Consequences

Cutting Class

First: 1 monitored study

Subsequent: 1 detention, 1-2 days ISS

Display or use of communication devices such as but not exclusive to beepers, cell phones and two-way radios during the period between arrival at school, and the end of the instructional day for all students

First: 1 detention- monitored study, confiscation of device until end of school day

Second: 1 detention -1 day ISS, confiscation of device, parent must retrieve

Laser pointers (as prohibited by CGS 53-106e)

1 day ISS, device turned over to police

Failure to give proper identification when requested by any school employee[1]

First: 1 detention

Second: 1 day ISS

Going to the parking/lot/being outside the building without prior approval. Being in an unauthorized area.

First: 1 monitored study

Second: 1 detention

Subsequent: 1 day ISS

Failure to serve monitored study

First: 1 detention

Second: 1 day ISS

Failure to serve detention

First: 2 detentions

Second: 1 day ISS

Failure to report to Deans’ Office when instructed to do so by and any staff member

First: 1 detention

Falsifying signatures, excuses or other school documents, or any deliberate

statement whether written or stated

First: 1 detention – 5 days OSS

Behavior

Range of Consequences

Throwing objects which can cause injury, including snowballs

First: 1 detention – 5 days OSS

Unauthorized leaving of classroom

First: 1 detention – 1 day ISS

Profanity, including language or gestures anywhere on school property or at school-sponsored events

First: 1 detention – 1 day ISS

Second: 2 days ISS, revocation of parking privileges for remainder of school year

Leaving school ground without administrator’s permission[2]

First: 1 day ISS, loss of parking privileges for at least 1 month if driving to school

Second: 2 days OSS, loss of parking privileges for at least 1 month if driving to school

Third: 3 days OSS, loss of parking privileges for remainder of school year

Truancy: Unauthorized absence from school

First: 1 day ISS

Second: 2 days ISS

Cheating and plagiarism[3]

Refer to Cheating and Plagiarism Policy

Bus misconduct

Warning: suspension of bus privileges, 1-3 days ISS

Minor breaches of student conduct not covered before

Determined as appropriate

Posting or distributing libelous, obscene or defamatory materials or literature[4]

1 day ISS – 3 days OSS

Profanity directed toward any staff members to include language or gestures

1 day ISS – 3 days OSS

Insubordination: open defiance of a teacher or any school employee

First: 1 detention – 1 day ISS

Second: 1 day ISS

Subsequent: 3 days OSS

Behavior

Range of Consequences

Behavior

Range of Consequences

Smoking, use of tobacco products in school, on school grounds, on school buses or any school-provided transportation or at any school sponsored event[5]

First: 2 days ISS* plus a $10 fine

Second: 2 days OSS plus a $20 fine

Subsequent: 5 days OSS plus a $30 fine if found smoking outside of school building on school grounds, referral to police for action if found smoking in school building on school buses, vans or other school provided transportation[6]

Inciting to riot, student walkouts

1-10 days OSS

Fighting

3-5 days OSS, referral to police for possible arrest

Threatening, harassing

1-10 days OSS, referral to police for possible arrest, recommended for expulsion

Hazing[7]

5-10 days OSS, referral to police for possible arrest, recommended for expulsion, exclusion from school activities up to 1 year

*Students may choose to attend a two-day Quit Smoking Clinic in lieu of suspension for the first offense only. The students must complete both days of this clinic. Failure to do will result in suspension.

Behavior

Range of Consequences

Gambling, forgery

1 day ISS – 10 days OSS, referral to police for possible arrest

Extortion: borrowing, taking or receiving any item (including money) by force, threat or intimidation

1 day ISS – 3 days OSS, referral to police for possible arrest

Vandalism, graffiti, willful destruction of school or personal property

3-10 days OSS, referral to police for possible arrest

Theft or possession of stolen goods

3-10 days OSS, referral to police for possible arrest

Unacceptable use of computers[8]

1 day ISS – 10 days OSS, referral to police for possible arrest,

Loss of computer privileges, restitution vandalism

Use of racial/discriminatory slurs, bias incident[9]

3-10 days OSS, possible referral to police for possible arrest

Assault of staff member or student

10 days OSS, possible referral to police for possible arrest, recommendation for expulsion

Arson, false alarm, bomb threat, deliberate fire setting

10 days OSS, possible referral to police for possible arrest, recommendation for expulsion

Behavior

Range of consequences

Use, possession of alcohol, drugs[10] or drug paraphernalia[11]

First: Up to 10 days OSS, referral to police for possible arrest, recommendation for expulsion.

Second: 10 days OSS, referral to police for possible arrest, recommendation for expulsion.

Third: 10 days OSS, referral to police for possible arrest, recommendation for expulsion.

Possession or use of ammunition, fire works, explosive or incendiary device

10 days OSS, referral to police for possible arrest, recommendation for expulsion

Behavior

Range of Consequences

Possession of firearm, firearm facsimile, deadly or dangerous instrument, any type of knife, martial arts weapon[12]*

10 days OSS, referral to police for possible arrest, automatic recommendation for expulsion

Off school grounds, possession of a firearm in violation of C.G.S. Section 29-35 or did possess and use of a firearm, deadly weapon or dangerous instrument in the commission of a crime

10 days OSS, recommendation for expulsion

Distributing and/or selling controlled substances of other drugs[13]

10 days OSS, referral to police for possible arrest, automatic recommendation for expulsion

On or off school grounds offering for sale or distributing a controlled substance as defined in C.G.S. Section 21a-240, whose manufacture distribution, sale, prescription dispensing, transporting or possession with intent to sell or dispense, offering or administering is subject to criminal penalties under C.G.S. Sections 21a-277 and 21a-278.

10 days OSS, automatic recommendation for expulsion

*Any instrument which can be construed to be a weapon will be considered inappropriate in school. Such implements include, but are not limited to: knives of any type, box cutters, darts, or any other device with which injury might be done to a person or property, and which is of no reasonable use to the pupil in an educational program.

DISRUPTION OF THE EDUCATIONAL PROCESS

Disciplinary consequences for other serious disruption of the educational process not covered above will be determined by administrative decision.

HAZING POLICY

The practice of hazing is expressly prohibited by the Staples High School Code of Conduct.

Hazing is defined as: an activity whether on or off campus, that recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental health or physical health of a student for the purpose of initiation or admission into or affiliation with any organization or activity sanctioned or authorized by the Westport Public Schools, for any other purpose related to the Westport Public Schools.

a. “Endanger the mental health” shall include, but is not limited to activities which would subject an individual to extreme mental stress such as prolonged sleep deprivation, forced exclusion from social contact, forced conduct which would result in extreme embarrassment, or any other forced activity which could adversely affect the mental health or dignity of the individual.

b. “Endanger the physical health” shall include, but is not limited to any brutality of a physical nature such as whipping, beating, exposure to elements, forced consumption of food, alcoholic beverages, drugs or controlled substances, or any physical activity which would adversely affect the physical health or safety of an individual.

The ”a” and “b” above are only meant to list examples of endangering the mental health and endangering the physical health of an individual, and these examples are by no means exhaustive.

No student organization or member of a student organization shall engage in hazing any member or prospective member of any organization or activity authorized or sanctioned by the Westport Public Schools. The implied or

expressed consent of any victim of hazing shall not be a defense in any action brought under the Staples High School Hazing Policy.

Upon receipt of a complaint or a report of hazing, the school administration shall undertake an investigation. If a hazing violation is deemed to have occurred, appropriate disciplinary consequences shall be administered against the individual or individuals responsible for the hazing.

Any extra-curricular activity not under the direct supervision of a Staples staff member of designated adult will be viewed as a non-school sponsored activity and is unauthorized.

DRUG AND ALCOHOL POLICY

As defined by section 21a-240 of the Connecticut General Statutes, our policy forbids students to possess drug paraphernalia, mood-altering substances, chemical solvents and other illegal substances, or to possess, use, distribute, intent to sell or be under the influence of alcohol and/or controlled drugs, anywhere on school property, on school buses or other vehicles, or at off-campus school or school-related activities such as proms, homecoming or athletic events.

The Westport Board of Education has approved the use of a breath alcohol tester as an option for students at all Staples High School dances and proms held during the school year.

The breath alcohol tester will be considered for use where, in the judgment of an administrator, there exists reasonable suspicion that a student has consumed an alcoholic beverage and then, only under the following circumstances:

1. Student denies to an administrator that he/she has consumed alcoholic beverages and wishes to establish his/her innocence. Should the student register a positive reading on the breath alcohol tester, consequences will be administered as outlined in the student handbook, the athletic handbook, or a contract governing student behavior at the above-listed events.

2. Student denies to an administrator that he/she has consumed alcoholic beverages and elects not to utilize the breath alcohol tester to establish his/her innocence. The judgment of the administrator will then be utilized to determine if the student has consumed an alcoholic beverage. In this instance, consequences will be administered as outlined in the student handbook, the athletic handbook, or a contract governing student behavior at the above-listed events.

Violations of the Drug and Alcohol Policy can lead to suspension, expulsion, arrest and prohibition from all school activities, including the graduation ceremony and other specific events.

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY POLICY: PLAGIARISM

The mission of Staples High School calls for all members of the school community to act with integrity. The act of plagiarism violates our expectation that students exhibit ethical behavior as expressed in their academic work.

According to Webster’s New International Dictionary of the English Language, to plagiarize is:

“To steal or purloin and pass off as one’s own the ideas, words, artistic productions of another; to sue without due credit the ideas expressions or productions of another.”

Gibaldi further indicates:

“Forms of plagiarism include the failure to give appropriate acknowledgement when repeating another’s wording or particularly apt phrase, paraphrasing another’s argument, and presenting another’s line of thinking. You may certainly use other person’s words and thoughts, but the borrowed material must not appear to be your creation. In your writing, then, you must document everything you borrow; not only direct quotations and paraphrases, but also information and ideas.”

Joseph Gibaldi, MLS Style Manual and Guide to Scholarly Publishing,

New York: The Modern Language Association of America, 1998.

If a student has any concerns or questions about how to cite material for a particular assignment, the student has a responsibility to consult his/her teacher.

Plagiarism is cheating. It is academically dishonest as well as an ethical offense. It violates the school’s mission and expectations for students, and will not be tolerated at Staples High School.

LEVELS OF PLAGIARIASM

A Level I occurrence would involve the student’s use of phrases or a few lines of text or a paragraph without proper citation. Most of the student’s work is still his or her own.

Level II plagiarism is more serious. It involves the student’s use of multiple paragraphs of someone else’s work, and/or the use of someone else’s ideas without the proper attribution, and/or repeated paraphrasing without proper attribution. While some of the work is the student’s own, it is clear that significant portions of the student’s work are not his/her own.

Level III Most, if not all, of the work has been copied from another source.

Level IV plagiarism occurs when the student has plagiarized, in any way for the second time.

RANGE OF CONSEQUENCES FOR PLAGIARISM

1. A grade reduction on the assignment in question.

2. A grade of zero (0) for the assignment in question with no opportunity to make up that work in any way, including extra credit work.

3. If the severity of the situation merits, the student shall be given a grade of “F” for the quarter of the course in which the plagiarism has occurred. An “F” may equal zero to 59 points and shall be determined by the Academic Integrity Committee.

4. If the severity of the situation merits it, the National Honor Society advisor shall be notified for possible action.

5. For any subsequent occurrence in any course at Staples the student shall immediately be dropped from the course and receive an F for a final grade.

In unusual situations, where the gravity of the infraction is so great, the Committee reserves the right to administer consequences beyond the identified range.

PROCEDURE

When a teacher has reason to believe that plagiarism has occurred, the following steps will be taken:

A. Teacher/Department Chairperson Action

· The teacher will investigate the matter with the student(s) involved.

· The teacher will communicate the outcome of his/her investigation to the immediate supervisor/Department Chairperson. The teacher, in consultation with the Department Chairperson, may decide to issue a consequence, and will communicate this decision in writing to the student and his/her parents as well as the guidance counselor. This letter will be placed in the student’s file. If a parent/student wishes to appeal the teacher’s consequence, the Academic Integrity Panel may be convened to review the matter.

The teacher, in consultation with the Department Chairperson, exercising their professional judgment, may refer the incident to the Academy Integrity Committee for the following reasons:

1. The student denies the charge of plagiarism.

2. Several students are involved in the infraction, and the teacher does not have the capacity to perform a comprehensive investigation.

3. Other criteria warrant a broader investigation of the charge.

The teacher will forward copies of all information and written work pertinent to the Academic Integrity Committee prior to the hearing. A written request for a hearing, specifying the scope of the investigation, will be submitted and forwarded to the head of the Academic Integrity Committee.

B. Academic Integrity Committee

· Upon receiving a referral, the Academic Integrity Committee will hold a hearing and investigate the charges of plagiarism/cheating.

· In order to assure a student’s due process rights, the counselor and parents of the student/subject of the plagiarism charge will be informed prior to the hearing.

· The student will have an opportunity to appear and may be accompanied by a parent and/or counselor before the panel to shed light on the charges.

· The panel will interview other staff or students related to the inquiry.

· The disciplinary consequences and outcome of the hearing will be delineated in writing to the student, counselor, and parents by the Chairman of the Academic Integrity Committee.

· In all cases where a student has been found to have plagiarized, a formal letter will be placed in the student’s file, describing the action and confirming the consequence(s) meted out by the school.

· The due process rights of students will always be ensured.

The Academic Integrity Committee will make the final decision concerning consequences on any case brought forward. The Committee may affirm the teacher/department chairperson’s consequence or institute consequences with lesser or greater severity.

STANDING COMMITTEE ON ACADEMIC INTEGRITY

This committee shall be formed in the spring of every year to begin its service in the fall of the next school year. Members shall serve for one year. The committee shall consist of five members: one Dean, one administrator, and three classroom teachers (each teacher to be from a different academic department). Decisions of the committee may be appealed to the Principal within three school days and may be made only on the basis of new evidence.

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY POLICY: CHEATING

The mission of Staples High School calls for all members of the school community to act with integrity. Cheating is academically dishonest as well as an ethical offense. The act of cheating violates our expectation that students exhibit ethical behavior as expressed in their academic work and will not be tolerated at Staples High School.

According to the Funk and Wagnalls Standard Dictionary of the English Language, to cheat is, “to deceive and act dishonestly.” Cheating includes, but is not limited to, the following examples:

a. Obtaining test or quiz materials prior to assessment without the instructor’s knowledge.

b. Inappropriate use of graphing calculators, programmable watches, palm pilots and other computer or electronic devices.

c. “Sharing” student work that should be individually/independently produced.

d. Using crib notes during test situations.

e. Substituting another source such as Cliff Notes or Monarch Notes study guides, in place of completing an assignment.

f. Discussing information about a quiz or test with students who have not completed the assessment.

RANGE OF CONSEQUENCES FOR CHEATING

1. A grade reduction on the assignment in question.

2. A grade of zero (0) for the assignment in question with no opportunity to make up that work in any way, including extra credit work.

3. If the severity of the situation merits it, the student shall be given a grade of” F” for the quarter of the course in which the cheating has occurred. An “F” may equal zero to 59 points and shall be determined by the Academic Integrity Committee.

4. If the severity of the situation merits it, the National Honor Society advisor shall be notified for possible action.

5. For any subsequent occurrence in any course at Staples the student shall immediately be dropped from the course and receive an “F” for a final grade.

In unusual situations, where the gravity of the infraction is so great, the Committee reserves the right to administer consequences beyond the identified range.

PROCEDURE

When a teacher has reason to believe that cheating has occurred, the following steps will be taken:

A.Teacher/Department Chairperson Action

· The teacher will investigate the matter with the student(s) involved.

· The teacher, in consultation with the Department Chairperson, exercising their professional judgment, may refer the incident to the Academy Integrity Committee for the following reasons:

1. The student denies the charge of cheating.

2. Several students are involved in the infraction, and the teacher does not have the capacity to perform a comprehensive investigation.

3. Other criteria warrant a broader investigation of the charge.

B.Academic Integrity Committee

· Upon receiving a referral, the Academic Integrity Committee will hold a hearing and investigate the charges of cheating.

· In order to assure a student’s due process rights, the counselor and parents of the student/subject of the cheating charge will be informed prior to the hearing.

· The student will have an opportunity to appear and may be accompanied by a parent and/or counselor before the panel to shed light on the charges.

· The panel will interview other staff or students related to the inquiry.

· The disciplinary consequences and outcome of the hearing will be delineated in writing to the student, counselor, and parents by the Chairman of the Academic Integrity Committee.

· In all cases where a student has been found to have cheated, a formal letter will be placed in the student’s file, describing the action and confirming the consequence(s) meted out by the school.

· The due process rights of students will always be ensured.

STANDING COMMITTEE ON ACADEMIC INTEGRITY

ACCEPTABLE USE AGREEMENT: INTRANET/INTERNET POLICY

All students must sign a “computer use” agreement form before they will have access to the districts electronic resources. Computing and information systems serve a large number and variety of users - students, faculty, staff members and outside clients. Every member of the school community has two basic rights regarding computing - privacy and a fair share of the resources. It is unethical for any person to violate these rights. All users are expected to use common sense and decency with regard to our computing resources. The District reserves the right to monitor use to assure that the systems are being used responsibly and in compliance with Board policies.

Unacceptable uses of these resources are:

· Using the network for illegal activities

· Degrading or disrupting equipment or system performance

· Vandalizing the data of another user

· Gaining unauthorized access to computer files

· Invading the privacy of others

· Using the account owned by another user

· Destruction of computer hardware or software

· Using the network for pornographic material

· Altering files

· Introducing a virus

· Transmitting any material that is pornographic, obscene or libelous, or material that attacks ethics, religious and/or racial groups.

Students are not allowed to store unrelated material to educational purposes on our server.

Students may be suspended from the use of the equipment, the use of the specific facility (i.e. computer labs, Library, classroom, etc.) and/or Staples High School. Any violation of computer hardware or software will warrant severe disciplinary action including monetary compensation for damage to equipment and/or the service required. Students may be suspended from school, and denied use of technology and access to computer and Internet resources.

ACCOUNTABILITIES POLICY

Accountabilities include library fines, parking fines, lost books, lost uniforms, etc. When accountabilities are not settled promptly, the following actions may be taken until the account is settled: library sign-out privileges may be revoked, participation in extracurricular activities may be curtailed, preferred positions in registration proceedings may be forfeited, participation in the graduation ceremony may be denied, and/or report card and class schedules may be withheld.

CAFETERIA

The Cafeteria is both a cafeteria and a student socializing area. Students are permitted to eat only at the tables in the Cafeteria or in the North courtyard. No food or drink is permitted outside of the Cafeteria area, except for lab lunches. Students are expected to be seated, pick up their own litter (including food trays, milk cartons, paper, etc.) and generally behave in a non-disruptive manner. Radios and tape players, with earphones, are permitted in the Cafeteria only, but not in hallways or classrooms. No food or drink is allowed in carpeted areas of school. Offenders may be required to take out community service, wash tabletops or clean up after lunch during free periods.

DRESS POLICY

The Westport Schools encourage students to dress in a manner that demonstrates pride in them and in their school.

The school system requires that attire be safe, appropriate to the activity, and not distracting or disruptive of the educational program.

The following guidelines apply to all regular school activities:

1. Shoes appropriate for school activities must be worn at all times. Footwear standards are maintained for the prevention of accidents and injury. High-heeled shoes or sandal styles that make walking, running or other activities less safe for students are discouraged.

2. Clothing and jewelry should be safe and free of writing, pictures, or any other insignia which are crude, vulgar, profane, or sexually suggestive or which advocate violence, racial, ethnic, or religious prejudice, or the use of drugs or alcohol.

3. No clothing, article of clothing, or manner of wearing clothes that is inappropriately revealing is permitted. Underwear should not be visible.

4. Clothing or jewelry which is distracting, or disruptive to the educational program, or which is gang-related, or which poses a threat to the physical well-being and safety of the student or others, shall not be worn on campus or at school activities.

II. The administrator and staff may establish additional dress and grooming regulations, when necessary, for regular school activities and/or for times when students are engaged in extra-curricular or other special school activities.

III. Coaches and teachers may find it necessary to impose more stringent dress requirements to accommodate the special needs of certain sports and/or classes.

IV. The Principal/designee may confiscate inappropriate attire and provide a suitable substitute if available, and/or phone home to inform parents that a change of attire must be provided.

V. Parents are advised to be sure that students have outerwear appropriate to the weather and to the activities they will engage in.

Appropriate dress DOES NOT include:

T-shirts or other items displaying references or advertising pertaining to drugs or

alcohol or cigarettes.

T-shirts or other items displaying any form of gender objectification or obscenity.

Any clothing, or lack of clothing, which may distract from the educational

process. Halter tops and other revealing types of clothing are not considered

acceptable.

Gang-associated apparel.

FIELD TRIPS

It is the policy of the school to furnish supervision for any groups that go to other schools or places to represent the school in competition or as guests, or on field trips or excursions.

All members of such groups are required to travel together under the supervision of a coach, faculty sponsor or a faculty representative of the school. Transportation is arranged and every member of the group is expected to go and return with the group.

School sponsored field trips, excursions, athletic events or other activities are considered an integral part of the total school program and, as such, all school rules and student behavior codes apply to student participants and student spectators at these events. Misconduct at a school sponsored event or activity will result in disciplinary action.

FIRE DRILLS

Fire drills are conducted under the supervision of the faculty and administration. Each student should become familiar with exit directions from each room scheduled during the day. The fire drill directions should be followed quickly and quietly. All students, faculty, and other adults must promptly leave the building and not return until an all clear signal is given.

Inappropriate behavior during a fire drill or building evacuation can lead to serious disciplinary consequences. Students should realize that pulling a fire alarm without cause can lead to arrest.

LEAVING CAMPUS

Students are not required to be on campus until their first class of the day, and they may leave campus only after their last class of the day. Exceptions must be approved in advance by the student’s Administrator and require a pass.

LIBRARY MEDIA CENTER

Open: Monday to Thursday- 7:30am to 3:45pm; Friday- 7:30 am to 3:30pm

The Staples High School Library Media Center provides students, staff and community members with access to extensive information and literature resources. Our staff, which consists of one full time Library Media Specialist, three full time paraprofessionals and two part-time paraprofessionals, is committed to insuring quality information services and instruction. Through this instruction, students become confident and competent researchers, which enable them to select and manage the tremendous amounts of information available today. The LMC holdings include over 46,000 volumes, 80 active periodical subscriptions, 300 videos and a variety of electronic information media. Our fully automated card catalog and networked system of full-text periodical databases puts a vast resource of information at our students’ fingertips 24 hours a day through the Staples LMC web page on the Internet. The Staples LMC also runs speaker programs that encourage thoughtful discussion and inquiry.

All Westporters are entitled to library cards and are welcome to use the facility during normal hours of operation.

LIBRARY POLICIES

Library Use:

Abuse of library equipment, materials, furniture or facility is a serious matter and will result in disciplinary action. Consequences may include revoked library privileges or school suspension. Students must compensate for damages. Computer use in the Library Media Center is subject to the school district’s Electronic Resources/Internet Acceptable Use Policy as well as posted library rules. Eating and drinking are not permitted in the library

Circulating Materials:

Books circulate for a period of 3 weeks. Magazines and periodicals circulate for 5 days. Overdue materials are fined at $.10 per day per item up to a $4 maximum fine per item. Items may be renewed. Lost books are subject to overdue fines as well as replacement cost. Students with library accountabilities are not allowed to borrow additional materials until the accountability is cleared. Library accountabilities are reported to the main office. Overdue lists are posted regularly throughout the school building. It is the responsibility of the student to return books and/or pay fines promptly.

LIMITED OPEN CAMPUS

Leaving at any other time without permission will result in at least the immediate loss of the parking sticker and suspension. Once present on campus, students are not permitted to leave without authorization.

LOCKERS

The Board of Education has provided school lockers for the purpose of giving students a convenient place to store clothing, books and other articles necessary for the student’s use during the school day. The student has no property interest in any locker. Such lockers are subject to inspection by the administration to protect the health and welfare of the student body. Students should use only their assigned locker and are responsible for its contents. Inspections will be conducted only in the case of emergency or where there is reason to suspect the presence of evidence of violation of school rules and regulations or other misconduct. Whenever practical, inspection will be made in the presence of the student concerned. Authorization to inspect a locker will be given only by the Principal, Assistant Principal or the Dean of Students. Students are responsible for maintaining the interior of their lockers.

All physical education students and athletes must use a locker and purchase a school lock when using the locker room. Students should not bring valuables to the locker room.

LOST AND FOUND

Lost and Found is located outside the Dean’s Office, in the hall leading to the Cafeteria - Student Center.

PARKING REGULATIONS POLICY

Note: The school is not responsible for damage to or theft from cars.

Since student parking at Staples is very limited, the rental of parking spaces is a senior privilege. If any spaces remain, they are offered to students in grade 11 and assignment of the spaces is determined by a lottery system. Sophomores and Freshmen are not permitted to have automobiles on campus. Students are not permitted to take their cars off campus until after their last class for the day. Campus security monitors student parking and traffic. Students are permitted to drive to school during exam week, provided they park in appropriate student spaces, the student parking spaces. Students are not permitted to park in Visitors, Fire Lanes, Handicap or Bus Lanes.

Automobiles and the parking lots are not loitering areas for students. Irresponsible use of a motor vehicle while a student is under school jurisdiction results in (at least) immediate loss of parking privileges and possibly suspension.

Parking Fees & Regulations

Student parking assignments are made once a year. Applications should be completed and returned to the Dean’s Office prior to the 1^st day of school. There are not shared parking spaces or stickers; students are not assigned a specific parking space but have student-parking areas. There is no transferring of stickers. A valid car registration and a valid driver license must be shown when picking up stickers. Stickers may not be moved from car to car, and must be properly adhered to the auto registered with the office. Stickers are $30.00 per semester, payable to “Staples Parking”. Tickets are issued daily to anyone violating the parking rules and regulations. The Notice of Violation carries a fine of $10.00 for improper parking and $10.00 for parking in a restricted area. Any student failing to pay the fine within 7 days of the violation will be fined an additional $5.00 for the violation for each violation. If the fine is not paid it is considered a Staples Accountability and students do not receive their report cards, class schedules, or diploma. Payment for tickets should be made to the Dean’s Office.

Emergency Parking

Emergency Parking is reserved for emergency purposes. Use of emergency parking is limited to a total of 5 times per semester, per student or per car; the cost is $3 per use. Students must register in the office by 9:30 a.m. (no exception).

PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES

Students are prohibited from displaying or using communication devices such as beepers, cell phones and two-way radios from the time they arrive at school, until the instructional day is over for all students. These devices must be turned off during this period.

This prohibition includes display or use on any school sponsored transportation to and from athletic events, field trips, etc. for the full duration of that activity. An exception to cell phone policy may be granted by the supervising adult.

Violation of this policy will result in disciplinary measures as well as confiscation of the communication device.

Walkmans may not be worn on the school campus except in the school cafeteria.

SCHOOL BUS ACCIDENT PROCEDURE

Police, school system representatives and bus company representatives

respond to ALL bus accidents no matter how MINOR they are.

Fire and emergency medical services respond to all accidents when necessary.

A complete assessment of any possible injury is done at the scene by medical

services personnel.

Investigation of the accident is done by the police, fire and public safety

personnel.

PLEASE REMAIN AWAY FROM THE ACCIDENT SCENE, SO ROADS REMAIN PASSABLE FOR EMERGENCY VEHICLES AND PERSONNEL!

PARENT/GUARDIAN: YOU NEED TO REMAIN AT HOME TO RECEIVE INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTIONS, IF IT IS NECESSARY.

All parents/guardians of children on the bus(s) involved in an accident will be

notified by the principal and transportation coordinator as soon as possible.

Parent’s/guardian’s) of children transported to a medical facility will be notified

immediately.

No child will be released to anyone but a parent/guardian or written specified

designee.

Students who proceed to school after a minor bus accident:

· Parent/guardian of all children on the bus will be notified by the principal and transportation coordinator.

· All students will be medically assessed by the school nurse. The nurse will notify the parent/guardian of those children in need of further medical treatment or at home observation.

Children will be medically observed throughout the day in consultation with their teacher(s).

SEXUAL HARRASSMENT POLICY

Sexual harassment violates both federal and state laws and is insulting and demeaning to the victim. It is the policy of the Westport Board or Education to condemn and prohibit all forms of sexual harassment directed at male or female students or employees by other male or female students or employees, or by those doing business with the Board of Education, or by volunteers under the control of the Board of Education. Supervisory personnel are responsible for assuring that all students and employee enjoy the right to work and learn in an environment free of all forms of sexual harassment.

Definition: Sexual harassment is generally defined under state and federal law as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature where:

Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of any individual’s employment or academic award;

Submission to or rejection of such conduct by any individual is used as the basis for employment decisions affecting such individual; or

Such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s work performance or ability to learn or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment.

Sexual harassment can include conduct that is verbal (including sexual innuendoes, suggestive comments, jokes of a sexual nature, sexual propositions or threats, sexual insults and put-downs); non-verbal (including use or display of sexually suggestive objects or pictures, suggestive or insulting sounds or whistles, leers, obscene gestures, etc.); or physical (including unwanted physical contact such as touching, pinching, kissing, brushing the body, fondling, assault or coerced sexual intercourse).

Communication: A copy of this policy will be distributed to all current employees and to all new employees at the time of hire. It will also be distributed annually to all employees and students. Moreover, a copy of this policy will remain posted at all times in each Board of Education facility.

The Board encourages victims of sexual harassment to report such claims and no reprisals or retaliation will result from good faith reporting.

Complaints: all complaints of sexual harassment will be investigated promptly and discreetly. If investigation reveals the complaint to be valid, prompt action will be taken to stop the harassment and prevent its recurrence.

Violations: Violation of this policy may result in disciplinary action up to and including suspension (students) and discharge (employees).

SMOKING POLICY

Smoking is banned, at any time, by students, visitors or other adults in the school building, on school grounds and in school vehicles. Smoking is also prohibited in personal vehicles on school property. This policy is in effect twenty-four hours a day. Also banned is possession by students of tobacco products or non-tobacco smoking products (including but not limited to chewing tobacco and herbal cigarettes). Smoking is not permitted at any school function (including dances, proms, extra-curricular activities and athletic events.) In addition to the consequences described below, failure to follow this policy can lead to barring a student’s offender from school activities where such an infraction has occurred.

Definition: “smoke” or “smoking” means the lighting or carrying of a lighted cigarette, cigar, pipe or similar device, however, based on administrative investigation, a student may be determined to have been smoking based on a preponderance of other evidence (such as being in a restroom stall with smoke rising out of the stall, etc.). Visible cigarettes found on students while in the school building will be confiscated to promote our smoke-free environment.

STAFF-STUDENT NON-FRATERNIZATION POLICY

Adults who have contact with children and adolescents through school activities have the responsibility not to betray or misuse their privileged position. Students develop a special trust in school staff by virtue of the school system’s authority and the important role the school plays in their lives. Adults must never take advantage of students’ vulnerability or of their confidence that adults in school will behave appropriately in relationships with them.

It is the policy of the Westport Board of Education to prohibit any sexual relationship, contact or sexually unwanted behavior or communication (verbal or non-verbal) between a staff member and a student, while the student is enrolled in the school system. The prohibition extends to students of the opposite sex or the same sex as the staff member, and applies regardless of whether the student or the staff member is the initiator of the behavior and whether or not the student welcomes or reciprocates the attention.

Definitions:

Staff Members: part-time and full-time employees, substitutes, consultants,

coaches, tutors, bus drivers, bus monitors, student-teachers, interns, volunteers

and others who work with or have contact with children under the auspices of, or

through contract with, the Board of Education.

Prohibited Behavior: includes, but is not limited to: flirting and bantering with

sexual overtones, dating, courting or engaging in a personal relationship on or off

campus that is sexually motivated or unwanted, having any physical sexual

contact or sexual intercourse with any student.

Complaints: should be reported to the principal, who will investigate to determine

whether a violation has occurred. The principal will inform the Superintendent

that the investigation is being conducted.

Violations: will result in disciplinary action up to and including dismissal.

Employees’ due process rights will be safeguarded.

The principal: will consult with the assistant superintendent for pupil personnel to

determine whether any alleged violation falls into the category of sexual

harassment and/or child abuse or sexual abuse; if so, it might need to be

addressed according to those policies and/or also reported to the police or

another agency.

Procedures: procedures for filing complaints and for conducting investigations

will be developed by the Superintendent.

STUDENT VISITOR POLICY

Staples students are prohibited from inviting visitors for all day visits. The reasons for this are:

1. To ensure the safety of Staples students and faculty.

2. Visitors are often a distraction to the educational process.

UNASSIGNED PERIOD POLICY

When students are not assigned to a class, they are expected to be in the Cafeteria, library, courtyards, Learning Center, Language Lab, Technology Lab or working with a faculty member. Students are not permitted in halls, the parking lot or around entranceways to the school, during class periods. Students are not permitted to leave campus during unassigned (“free”) period in the middle of their school day. Consequences of such infractions will be given, including, but not limited to the loss of parking privileges.

VISITING CLASSROOMS POLICY

Parents are welcome to visit classrooms or consult with teachers, pupil services staff, and the administration. Parents must first call to arrange a meeting. Arrangements for visiting classrooms should be done through the pupil services administrator. Visitors for any reason are required to check in at the pupil services’ office and receive a visitor’s pass. To ensure that visits to the classrooms do not become disruptive to the learning environment the following procedures will be followed:

Visitor

1. Visitor must respect the confidentiality of the students in the class and not discuss or report behavior of any individual within the class.

2. Visitors are expected to take a passive role (not commenting or interrupting the lesson) during the observation unless the teacher invites participation.

3. Visitor will request permission to observe a class and provide a reason for the visit.

Pupil Services Administrator

1. All requests for visitations to classroom will be processed through the pupil services administrator.

2. The administrator will determine which classrooms and/or teachers who will be visited and the length of time spent in each room.

3. Visitations will be scheduled a week in advance to provide adequate time to notify staff involved.

4. The administrator will notify the teacher of the date, time, and reason for the visit. A pupil services staff member will accompany the visitor during the visitation.

Teacher

1. Teacher will be informed of the visit at least 5 days in advance.

2. Teacher may request a change in date if there is a conflict in the teacher’s schedule or if the class is not a good representation of the program.

3. Teacher may request that the visitor attend a different class if requested class is not a good representation of the program.

Day of Visit

1. Visitor will sign in the Pupil Services Department to receive a schedule and a visitor pass.

2. Visitor will meet with the pupil services staff member who will accompany them to each requested class.

3. At the end of the visit, visitor will meet with the pupil services administrator/designee to review the visit.

VISITOR POLICY

Visitors to Staples High School must have a pre-arranged appointment with a staff member prior to their arrival.

Upon arrival to Staples High School, all visitors must sign in and receive a visitor’s pass at the Main Office.

STAPLES LEADERSHIP

STUDENT ASSEMBLY

The Staples Student Assembly has as its primary purpose the promotion of student affairs and interests and has its own budget. It serves as the student voice for the Leadership Council and the school. There are 40 members, ten from each class. Elections are held in the spring, except for the 10 Freshmen, who are chosen in the fall. The Assembly meets twice a month.

STAPLES COLLABORATIVE TEAM

The Collaborative Team is composed of the principal, administrators and teacher representatives from each department. This group meets weekly to develop policy, create school improvement goals, and make decisions on important aspects of school life. One of the major objectives of the group is to foster faculty leadership and broaden collective problem solving in the school community.

STAPLES LEADERSHIP COUNCIL

The Staples Leadership Council is the body that each year sets goals that will improve the learning environment of the school community. The primary purpose is to improve the learning and teaching environment of Staples High School. It advocates for the necessary resources and funds to implement its goals. There are 17 members of the council: 4 students, (one per grade), 4 parents, 4 teachers, 1 administrator, 2 non-certified staff, the WRC Coordinator, and the Principal. Elections are held in the spring except for the Freshman, who is chosen in the fall.

WESTPORT SCHOOLS AFFIRM NON-DISCRIMINATORY

PRACTICES IN EMPLOYMENT AND IN EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY

In compliance with Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, THE WESTPORT PUBLIC SCHOOLS shall exclude no person from participation in, denied benefits of, or be otherwise discriminated against in employment or in educational opportunity on the basis of sex, sexual orientation, disability, past or present history of mental disorder, mental retardation, race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, age or marital status.

Complaint Procedures

File complaint with principal; copy to coordinator (see below)

If not satisfied, you may appeal to the Assistant Superintendent

Next level is appeal to Superintendent

Next level appeal is to Board of Education

Title VI, Title VII

and Title 504 Coordinator Title IX Coordinator

Cynthia Gilchrest Joyce Losen, Ass’t. to the Sup’t.

Director of Pupil Services Westport Town School Office

Staples High School Westport Town Hall

70 North Avenue 110 Myrtle Avenue, Room 302

Westport, CT 06880 Westport, CT 06880

341-1250 341-1012

Town School Office

Superintendent of School Elliott Landon

Deputy Sup’t. of Schools John Brady

Asst. Supt. Of Curriculum & Staff Development Lynne Shain

Director of Pupil Services Cynthia Gilchrest

[1] Part-time and full-time employees substitutes, consultants custodians, coaches, tutors, bus drivers, bus monitors, student-teachers, interns, volunteers and others who work with or have contact with students under the auspices of, or through contract with the Westport Board of Education.

[2] Students are not required to be on campus until their first class of the day and may leave only after their last class of the day. Leaving during non-scheduled period without an administrator’s permission is not allowed.

[3] Cheating and plagiarism are considered serious offenses with regard to academic integrity. Copies of the Plagiarism policy are available in Pupil Services and Departmental offices.

[4] While students are encouraged to exercise their constitutional right of free speech, students must recognize that freedom of speech does not constitute license to interfere with the orderly operation of the school. Students should respect the dignity, rights, and written expression of others.

[5] Effective August 25, 1997, smoking is banned at any time by students, visitors or other adults in the school building, on school grounds, in school vehicles, school provided transportation and in personal vehicles on school property. This ban is in effect 24 hours a day. Also banned is possession by students of tobacco products or non tobacco products, including, but not limited to chewing tobacco and herbal cigarettes. Smoking is not permitted at any school function to include dances, proms, athletic events, extra-curricular activities.

[6] C.G.S. 19a-342 provides that it is an infraction to smoke within a school building while school is in session. C.G.S. Section 53-198 prohibits any passenger on a school bus from having a lighted cigarette, cigar or pipe in his possession.

[7] Refer to Staples High School Hazing Policy on page 63.

[8] Refer to Acceptable Use Agreement: Intranet/Internet Policy. Students may face disciplinary action for use of non-school computer if the use presents a substantial disruption of the educational process.

[9] Any behavior , verbal, physical and/or written that harasses, threatens, intimidates or demeans certain individuals or groups on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, creed, national origin or handicap.

[10] As defined by Section 21a-140 of the Connecticut State Statues, the policy forbids students to possess drug paraphernalia, mood-altering substances, chemical solvents and other illegal substances, or to possess, use, distribute, sell or be under the influence of alcohol and/or controlled substances any where on school property, on school buses or other vehicles, or at off-campus school related activities to include, but not limited to proms, homecoming or away athletic events.

[11] Paraphernalia includes, but is not limited to pipes, bongs, roach clips, cocaine spoons, crack vials, rolling papers, or any object or container used, intended for use or designed for use in storing concealing, using or distributing controlled substances or other drugs.

[12] Pursuant to Section 921 of Title 18 United States Code (U.S.C.), the Gun-Free School Act of 1994, “firearm” means any device that is designed to or may be readily converted to a projectile by the action of an explosive. This includes starter pistols, mufflers, silencers, bombs, grenades, machine guns, pistols, revolvers, shotguns, but not BB guns or pellet guns.

Pursuant to C.G.S., Section 53a-3(7), “Dangerous instrument” is defined as any instrument, article or substance which under the circumstances of its actual or threatened use, is capable of causing death or serious physical injury and includes “a vehicle”. The focus, in the concept of a “dangerous instrument” is on the way it is used or threatened or attempted to be used, and its capability under these circumstances.

Pursuant to C.G.S., Section 53a-3(21), “Martial arts weapon”, means a nunchaku, kama, kasafi-fundo, octagon sai, tonfa or Chinese star. The list of items students are expressly prohibited from having also includes, but is not limited to explosive devices to include fireworks and “stink bombs”, any type of weapon facsimile, knives or box cutters.

[13] Connecticut State Education Law, Section 10-233d requires a one-year expulsion for students who offer illegal drugs for sale on or off school grounds. Pursuant to C.G.S. Section 221a-240(50) “sale” is any form of delivery which includes barter, exchange or gift, or offer therefore. “Distribute” means to deliver other than by administering or dispensing a controlled substance. C.G.S. Section 21a-240(15).