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2001-2002

SCHOOL COMMITTEE

Mr. Robert Watson, Chairman

Mrs. Patricia Archambault Mrs. June Guglielmi

Mr. Robert Capron Mr. Ernest Marcure

SUPERINTENDENT

Dr. Paul R. Lescault

Mrs. Kristen Stringfellow

Mr. David Light

Principal

Ms. Patricia A. Hines

Assistant Principal

The mission of the Scituate School System is to provide all students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become responsible, successful and contributing citizens in a continually changing world.

The Scituate School System provides a safe, secure environment where the importance of teaching and learning is held in high regard. Our schools reflect the best educational research and practice, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to become creative thinkers, problem solvers, and effective communicators. Our students are provided a strong foundation in the Rhode Island Common Core of Learning, enabling them to perform at the highest standards. We are a community of life-long learners where school, home, and the community come together to accomplish our mission.

The mission of Scituate High School is to focus on the whole person and develop all students into responsible citizens, effective problem solvers, communicators and life long learners.

Scituate High School will:

use multiple ways to assess student performance.

provide opportunities for faculty growth, professional development, mutual support, and communication.

provide opportunities for integrated and interdisciplinary approaches to teaching.

implement policies which ensure the physical safety, health, self-esteem, and dignity of students, staff, and faculty.

establish community partnerships.

provide opportunities for students to participate in co-curricular activities and community service.

recognize student success.

provide opportunities for communication among schools, parents, and other community organizations.

provide contemporary technology and expand its use within the school.

provide learners with multiple opportunities to be successful.

provide for the personal, social, and academic needs of students.

 

Scituate High School students will:

demonstrate competency in a wide body of knowledge.

demonstrate active involvement in their own education.

exhibit the responsibilities of citizenship.

practice leadership and membership skills by working in groups to solve problems.

demonstrate personal habits that enhance their own physical and emotional growth.

communicate effectively through speaking, writing, listening, and reading.

locate, analyze, apply, and evaluate information.

use technology productively to enhance learning.

demonstrate analytical strategies that will support them in reaching logical, reasoned conclusions and become independent learners and managers of productive lives.

explore and express their creativity.

demonstrate respect for individual differences and diversities.

appreciate and respect the abilities and achievements of others.

explore career opportunities.

demonstrate commitment by attending school regularly, being on time to school and class, being prepared for class, doing outside assignments, and participating in class.

balance the demands of academic responsibility with social and co-curricular activities and employment.

 

Your high school years can be among the most pleasant of your life. Take advantage of your youth and energy by committing yourself totally to your school. Academically strive for excellence in your studies; set your goals high. Socially join and be an active member of your class and a club of your choice. Athletically try out for a team or become actively involved in promoting school spirit and sportsmanship.

This handbook is designed to acquaint you with the rules, regulations, and policies that govern our school. It is your responsibility to read this handbook and familiarize yourself and your parents/guardians with its contents.

You will derive benefit from your senior high school program in direct proportion to what you put into your development. There are many people on the staff who will help you, should you want the help. No one needs to feel alone. If you are concerned over an issue that is affecting you, seek advice and counsel.

On behalf of the entire staff, we wish you a most successful and pleasant school year.

Mr. David Light

Principal

Ms. Patricia Hines

Assistant Principal

The function of the Guidance Department is to provide the student with knowledge about him/herself as a unique individual, realize his/her personal needs, and provide the facilities for attaining educational and vocational goals. All of your teachers are vitally interested in your personal success and the Guidance Department works closely with them in your behalf.

The guidance program includes group guidance classes, group counseling, and individual counseling. A student may request a conference with a guidance counselor by simply notifying the counselor who will arrange a suitable time for a meeting. Students are also encouraged to advise their parents/guardians that the guidance office is always ready to confer with them to resolve any school problem or to furnish any information they may request.

Testing Service: Students will be given intelligence, aptitude, achievement and occupational interest tests. These will be of help to students in knowing their strengths and weaknesses.

Educational Planning: Students will be assisted in planning their program of studies and in making their plans for the future.

Counseling Assistance: Students with academic or personal problems may wish to utilize the help of the department to resolve them and to plan a course of action for the future.

College and Scholarship Information: The department has assembled up-to-date information on colleges, their entrance requirements, and scholarship information that is available to all students.

Occupation Information: Occupational information is available in the guidance office.

Personal record folders are maintained for each student in the guidance office.

The Principal or the Guidance Director is responsible for all student transcripts. Transcripts are sent to educational institutions and prospective employers only by request of the student. The student’s right to privacy regarding his/her school records is respected and maintained by the school.

The Curriculum in grades 9-12 is comprehensive enough so that students can:

Be prepared for college entrance in any area or field.

Elect subjects which will provide the skills for a business career.

Select vocational subjects which will provide experience in -

the industrial technology area;

the agricultural field.

Can elect subjects from any area. The counselor helps the student provide him/herself with a meaningful high school program.

The Administration and Guidance Department prepares a Program of Studies book each year. Students who pass five subjects each year plus physical education and health earn 23 credits after the completion of a four year program of studies.

CLASS MEMBERSHIP

To be a member of the Sophomore Class a student must earn 3.75 credits.

To be a member of the Junior Class a student must have earned a total of 9.25 credits in the previous two years.

To be a member of the Senior Class a student must have earned a total of 13.25 credits in the previous three years.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

All students must carry a full schedule of 5.75 credits a year. A credit is earned by successfully completing any subject meeting four times a week for one year.

Presently, students must earn twenty (20) credits to receive a high school diploma. Of the twenty credits, twelve (12) credits are required coursework: English (4 credits); Mathematics (2 credits); Science (2 credits); U.S. History (1 credit); Social Studies (1 credit); and Physical Education (2 credits). Any student who has not fulfilled the graduation requirements of Scituate High School will not be allowed to participate in graduation exercises unless granted special exception by the Scituate School Committee under extenuating circumstances.

Commencing with the Class of 2004, twenty-one (21) credits must be earned for graduation. Of the twenty-one credits, fourteen (14) are required coursework: English (4 credits); Mathematics (3 credits); Science (2 credits); U.S. History (1 credit); Social Studies (1 credit); Health (1 credit); and Physical Education (2 credits).

The Rhode Island Board of Regents recommends that college bound students fulfill the following requirements:

4 years of English

3 years of college preparatory math

1 year of social studies

1 year of U. S. History

2 years of foreign language

2 years of laboratory science

½ year of the arts (art, music, or drama)

½ year of computer literacy and instruction

Students, with the assistance of parents/guardians and guidance counselors, are to give serious consideration in the spring to election of subjects which best meet the student’s needs and abilities. The Selection of Studies Card states: No change in this curriculum in September.

Students will, however, at the written request of parents and with the approval of the guidance counselors, be permitted to make adjustments and changes in their schedules, provided the change is made by the thirteenth school day after the opening of school.

After the thirteenth school day, no changes are to be made in student schedules. Exceptions to this policy will be made only after consultation among the counselor, parent/guardian, department chair, and teachers who are involved. Any change that is made after the thirteenth school day will be made in the best interest of the student.

No credit will be granted to students who withdraw before the completion of a course.

State and Federal laws stipulate that any person under the age of 18 years who is to be gainfully employed must obtain working papers from his/her school department. These papers may be obtained from the Secretary in the Principal’s Office. An Intention to Employ Minor form is given to the student upon request which the prospective employer must complete. This form should be returned to the office by the student. Working papers are then signed by the applicant, completed, signed by the Principal, and mailed to the employer.

Report cards are issued four times a year. Marks are based on the following system:

Numerical Average Letter Grade Grade Point Average

97-100 A+ 4.3

93- 96 A 4.0

90- 92 A- 3.7

87- 89 B+ 3.3

83- 86 B 3.0

80- 82 B- 2.7

77- 79 C+ 2.3

73- 76 C 2.0

70- 72 C- 1.7

65- 69 D 1.0

60- 64 E 0

Below 60 F 0

INTERIM REPORTS

Interim reports are issued four weeks prior to report card days. These reports are issued to advise students and parents that the school work is not up to the standard expected of the student and to serve as encouragement for the student to make a greater effort in his/her studies. Interims will be mailed home and are to be signed by the parent/guardian and returned to the teacher who issued the interim within two days following their receipt.

There are four marking periods during the school year. The pupils will take their report cards home the day they are issued. Parents/guardians are to keep one copy and are asked to sign and return the other copy with their son/daughter to the homeroom teacher on the following morning. The final report card will be mailed home at the end of June.

To achieve HIGH HONORS WITH DISTINCTION, a student must attain a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 4.0 with no grade below a B- in any subject. To achieve HIGH HONORS, a student must attain a GPA of 3.7 with no grade below C- in any subject. To achieve HONORS, a student must attain a GPA of 3.0 with no grade below C- in any subject. Weight factor will be applied to HONORS courses only for GPA purposes.

High school juniors and seniors are eligible for induction into the National Honor Society. Selection and continued membership based on Scholarship, Service, Leadership, and Character. Induction is an honor bestowed on the student. Students do not apply for membership. The Faculty Selection Committee interviews all eligible students. Students are questioned on the standards in general as well as their specific achievements. Non-selected students will be informed of the areas where the Faculty Selection Committee felt they did not meet the standards.

The Scholarship standard is based on a student’s cumulative grade point average (GPA) beginning in grade nine and continuing until the end of the first semester of their current grade. The scholarship standard is a GPA of 3.5. The GPA for 2005 induction will be a 3.6, and a 3.7 for 2006 induction.

The Service standard is fifty (50) hours of documented service for grade eleven induction, eighty (80) hours for grade twelve, and a total of ninety (90) hours by March of the senior year. Service hours accumulate beginning in grade nine. The following pace is recommended: 10 hours in grade nine, 20 hours in grade ten, and 30 hours in both eleventh and twelfth grades. Verification forms are available from the Honor Society advisors and in the Media Center. Students are expected to find their own projects. Suggestions and information are available from the Honor Society advisors.

Classroom, school, and peer leadership are considered for the Leadership standard. Classroom leadership is defined as positively influencing others to do their best, taking challenging academic

courses, and going beyond what is expected. School leadership is based on participation in extracurricular activities. Advisors and faculty are asked for input in this evaluation.

Character is evaluated on the following definition: The student of character demonstrates the highest standards of honesty and reliability. He/she shows courtesy and concern for others, upholds school regulations, observes instructions and rules both in and outside of the classroom.

Finally, the Faculty Selection Committee considers it to be the responsibility of the individual student to be aware of his/her GPA, to perform service on a regular basis, and to maintain the highest standards of leadership.

Members of the National Honor Society are expected to maintain their selection standards. NHS membership is a commitment to the standards of Scholarship, Service, Leadership, and Character. If a student falls below his/her induction standards in any area, he/she will:

First: Receive a written explanation from the Faculty Advisors.

Second: Be given the opportunity for a hearing before the Faculty Committee.

Third: Be given a limited amount of time to correct the deficiency or face dismissal.

Discipline may include but is not limited to the following: probation, loss of privileges or participation for a limited time, additional community service, and dismissal from the NHS.

According to the NHS Constitution, dismissal is permanent. Once dismissed, a student cannot be considered for re-admission. He/she must return the membership pin and certificate. Violations of school policies in the areas of substance abuse, weapons, and test taking, or repeated problems in the same selection criteria, may result in an immediate recommendation for dismissal.

NHS discipline and dismissal decisions are subject to the same right of appeal as any other school discipline policy.

Rhode Island Honor Society is for seniors only. Prospective members are considered on the basis of character and scholarship. The academic standard is a GPA of 3.3. Character is defined under the National Honor Society.

We are fortunate to have the support of local organizations and clubs in providing academic incentives for our students. The school and community attempt to recognize and encourage student achievement through awards. The list that follows is a partial listing of the local awards and scholarships given annually within our school.

Art Department Certificate of Merit: This certificate is given to a senior in recognition of outstanding achievement in the visual arts.

Avis J. Carey Book Award: This award is presented to a junior business student for outstanding academic achievement and significant contributions in the area of secretarial studies.

Bausch and Lomb Honorary Science Award: This award is presented to a junior in recognition of outstanding academic achievement, good character, and superior intellectual promise in the field of science.

Brown University Book Award: The recipient of this award is the junior who best combines a high degree of ability in English expression both written and spoken with those outstanding personal qualities which, in the words of the Brown Charter of 1764, give promise that the student become one of the succession of men and women duly qualified for discharging the offices of life with usefulness and reputation.

Bryant College Book Award: This award sponsored by Ernest A. Almonte, an alumnus of Bryant College, is given for outstanding scholarship, concern for others, and commitment to school and community.

Business Award: This award is presented to the senior who is recommended by the Business Education faculty as the outstanding business student at Scituate High School. This annual award is presented by the Scituate office of the Fleet National Bank.

Colby College Book Award: Sponsored by Mrs. Elinor Thompson, an alumna of Colby College, Waterville, Maine, this award is given to a junior for outstanding academic achievement and significant contributions to the high school community.

Community Service Award: This award is presented to that senior who has demonstrated the willingness to work for the benefit of those in need without monetary compensation or without recognition. This award, which is sponsored by the Scituate School Committee, is presented to that senior who is committed to the idea of volunteering his/her time and abilities to the creation of a better tomorrow.

Dekalb Agriculture Award: This award is given to a senior vocational agriculture student in recognition of outstanding scholarship, leadership, and supervised programs in agriculture.

Donald J. Randall Memorial Award: This award is presented to the senior student who exemplifies school spirit, who has been a member of at least one athletic team, who plans to continue with post high school studies, and who has contributed time and effort unselfishly for the benefit of others.

Dorothea M. Sprague Memorial Band Scholarship: This scholarship is given to the senior in band who, through his/her high school years and scholarship application, demonstrates outstanding achievement in all areas of the total band experience, including musical skill, responsibility, commitment to him/herself and others and a constant striving for excellence. While achieving these musical goals, this student has also attained academic and extracurricular excellence in other areas of his/her school experiences.

Family and Consumer Science Award: This award is given to the student who has compiled the best record in the area of Family and Consumer Science.

General Treasurer’s Award for Outstanding Performance in Business Studies: Given to a senior, this award is designed to promote academic excellence by recognizing the hard work and achievement of high school students in business studies.

Girl’s Athletic Association Award: This award is presented to a senior girl who has displayed spirit and sportsmanship while participating in athletic competition.

Harold G. Gifford Memorial Award: Given in memory of Harold G. Gifford, a member of the Class of 1958 of Scituate Jr./Sr. High School, this award is presented annually to the senior boy who is nominated by the athletic coaches and the principal on the basis of athletic ability, leadership, and good sportsmanship. The recipient’s name is inscribed on a plaque provided by the Scituate Booster Club.

"I Dare You" Leadership Award: This award is given to a junior in recognition of excellence in character and well-balanced personal development as well as leadership potential.

Lt. Governor’s Leadership Award: This award recognizes the outstanding young men and women across our state who demonstrate good scholarship, leadership, and achievement.

Mathematics Department Achievement Award: This award is presented to a senior for outstanding academic performance in Mathematics.

Music Instrument Award: This award is given to the senior who, in the view of the Music Department Faculty and students, has made the greatest contribution to the band, both musically and non-musically.

Music Voice Award: This award is given to the senior who, in the view of the Music Department Faculty and students, has made the greatest contribution to the chorus, both musically and non-musically.

New England Institute of Technology Award: This award is given to students who best demonstrate career potential and motivation.

Pell Gold Medal Award: This award, given to a senior for outstanding performance in the study of American History, is graciously provided by the Honorable Claiborne Pell, former United States Senator from Rhode Island, in memory of his father.

President’s Student Service Scholarship Award: This award is given to seniors who have demonstrated outstanding community service and commitment to strengthening America.

Providence Journal Scholastic Award: This award is given in recognition of superior effort and determination to achieve academically.

Rhode Island College Alumni Association Award: This award is given to an outstanding senior planning on attending Rhode Island College.

Rhode Island Scholar: This designation, sponsored by the Rhode Island Higher Education Assistance Authority, recognizes the high academic potential of students as evidenced by their Scholastic Assessment Test scores.

Salutatorian Award: This award is earned by the second ranking student in the senior class.

Scituate High School Art Department Award: This award is given to a senior with outstanding effort in Visual Arts and commitment and dedication to the Art Department and Art Faculty.

Scituate High School Art Department Certificate of Appreciation: This certificate is awarded to an art student whose assistance has been invaluable to the Art Faculty.

Scituate Scholarship Foundation Awards

Secretary of State Leadership Award: This award recognizes students who demonstrate the qualities of good scholarship, leadership, and achievement.

United States Army Reserve National Scholar/Athlete Award: This award is presented to that student who has demonstrated both academic and athletic excellence.

University of Rhode Island Alumni Association Book Award: This award is given to the junior who best displays the outstanding personal attributes of integrity, industriousness, and loyalty, combined with an exemplary record of service to school and community.

Valedictorian Award: This award is earned by the number one ranking student in the senior class.

 

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR PARTICIPATION IN ATHLETICS AND EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES GRADES 7-12

Participation in athletics and extracurricular activities is a privilege and educational opportunity. To be eligible to participate in athletics and extracurricular activities at Scituate High School, students are expected to maintain appropriate behavior, citizenship, and acceptable academic standards.

Eligibility to participate in athletics and/or extracurricular activities in any given marking quarter will be determined by grades received in the preceding marking quarter. A student will be allowed to fail only one course and must maintain an overall grade point average of 1.7 (C-). Any student who fails any two courses will be ineligible to participate in athletics and extracurricular activities.

Interscholastic athletics shall be governed by the Rhode Island Interscholastic League Rules and Regulations and/or Scituate School Committee. In cases where the standards set by one agency exceed those by the other, then the higher standard will be in effect.

Situations that are not addressed by the above guidelines may arise. Such situations may be appealed to a review committee which includes the superintendent, principal, and respective advisor or coach. The appeal must be made within one week of the student receiving his/her report card.

Activities to which this policy applies include the following:

All State Musicians, Jazz Ensemble

Academic Decathlon, Majorettes

Cheerleaders, Math Counts

Class Officers ,Math League

Drama Club ,Select Choir

Future Business Leaders of America, Student Council

Future Farmers of America ,Yearbook Staff

Interscholastic Athletics

Honesty, fairness, and student integrity should prevail in any testing program conducted at Scituate High School. Any form of student communication, either oral or written, including material illegally provided, solicited, or procured (notes relating or not relating to the test) shall constitute a violation of this policy.

Violations of the test taking policy will be handled on an individual basis. Guilty students will receive a penalty from the teacher or:

a grade of zero on the test with no makeup;

a letter sent home to the parent indicating the events of the incident.

Repeated cases of violations will be referred to the administration and a conference will be arranged to include the teacher, student, parent, and an administrator.

Students who elect to attend summer school or be tutored in the summer will be allowed to makeup only two (2) courses in which they receive a final grade of E. Students who received a final grade of D in the following courses will be allowed to take these courses in summer school in order to improve their grade to meet the prerequisite of the next course in the sequences of courses: French and Spanish II, III and IV; Geometry; Algebra II; Pre Calculus; and Calculus.

Students who intend to be tutored must have advanced approval of the Principal. The tutor must possess a valid Rhode Island teaching certificate and must provide a minimum of thirty (30) hours of instruction. Successful completion of a course in summer school or by summer tutoring will raise the final grade earned during the school year by one letter grade. The maximum letter grade that can be earned is a C. Summer school courses can be taken for personal academic growth and development. The course(s) and grade(s) will not be substituted for corresponding school courses.

Since four years of high school level English are required for graduation, English 9 is a prerequisite for English 10, is a prerequisite for English 11, and so on. Students will, therefore, have to make up failures in the high school level required English courses by (1) attending summer school during the next summer semester, (2) receiving tutoring in the next summer semester, (3) as a junior, by taking a course at an institution of higher education, and (4) as a senior, by taking double English, or (5) requesting a variance from the School Committee.

Arrival and departure at Scituate High School shall be by existing walkways and roadways only. All student movement between the High School and the Middle School buildings must be by way of the connecting passage. Students who walk between buildings using the outside areas will be disciplined. Students are to walk on the right when passing in the corridors. There is to be no running.

A parking area is provided for student vehicles. The privilege of driving to school is extended to students who have valid Rhode Island driver’s licenses. Students parking in the student parking area must register their motor vehicles with the Principal’s Office. Students will be required to complete a Student Parking Regulations and Registration sheet. Students will also be required to affix the Scituate High School student parking permit to the lower left corner of the rear window in the vehicle they park on school property.

Students are not to be in the hallways and corridors during the time that classes are in session unless they have an official pass or face disciplinary action. No student will be allowed to leave class during the last fifteen (15) minutes of class.

Students will be assigned corridor lockers by their homeroom teachers. Each student is to use the locker to which he/she is assigned. Sharing lockers with other students is not permitted. Lockers are provided for the storage of books and coats during the school day. Lockers should be locked at all

times. The lockers are school property and may be opened by the administration for emergencies or when there exists reasonable suspicion for a search of the contents, consistent with school committee policy. Students are responsible for the condition of the locker assigned to them and the cleanliness of the contents. The cost of repair or repainting locker damage caused by writing on painted surfaces, affixing non-removable stickers, or bending metal parts will be charged to the student. Additionally, students are financially responsible for any articles or books lost or stolen from their lockers. Any matters pertaining to lockers must be reported to the Principal’s Office.

Physical Education teachers will issue special locks for gym lockers. No personal locks are permitted on these lockers. Students will be held financially responsible for the loss of locks.

The Lost and Found Department is located in the high school office. Lost articles may be claimed at each of these locations during the student’s free time. Permission to look through articles must be granted from office personnel.

When in study hall, students are to have all the necessary books and materials needed to spend the entire period studying. To avoid any distraction, the following regulations will be enforced:

There will be no locker permissions and no permission to go to a teacher or to other rooms without previously having obtained a signed pass from the teacher or other person involved;

Lavatory permission shall be granted only in emergencies;

There is to be no talking, creation of other distractions, no card playing, et cetera.

The use of electronic devises such as radios, walk-men, cell phones, games, et cetera is not permitted during the school day. Also, Rhode Island General Law 16-21.2-11 prohibits any student in any secondary or elementary school from carrying, possessing, or using a paging device of any kind on school property, except with the written consent of the principal of the school in which the student is enrolled. The penalty for violation of this law shall be the confiscation of said device.

Each student and his/her parent/guardian must sign the Scituate Secondary Schools Student Internet Use Agreement prior to student use of school computers. Any violation of the regulations in this agreement is considered unethical and may constitute a criminal offense. Should a student commit any violation, his/her access privileges may be revoked and school disciplinary action and/or appropriate legal action may be taken.

Telephones in the administration office are business phones and should not be used by pupils. A public pay phone is located in the gymnasium lobby. If it is necessary to use this phone during class time, permission must be given by a teacher along with a pass.

Any student who becomes ill or has an accident while in school should have this fact reported to the nurse or office immediately. If the injury or illness prevents the student from notifying the nurse, a fellow student or teacher should assume this responsibility. When teachers think that a student should be sent to the Medical Room, a fellow student should be asked to serve as an escort. If the student appears too ill to leave the classroom, the teacher will call the nurse to the classroom.

Any student who must take medication during the school day (pills, capsules, liquids, etc.) is required to have a written authorization from a physician and a permission slip from the parent/guardian addressed to the school nurse. The nurse will keep this medication under lock and will arrange for the student to take it at the proper time. Attempt should be made to take medication at passing time, so as not to interrupt class time. No medication of any type will be carried by a student on his/her person, in his/her bookbag (etc.), or in his/her locker. This includes nonprescription drugs such as aspirin, cough syrup, drugs for dysmennorrhea, etc. Medication must be brought to school in a container appropriately labeled by the physician or pharmacy.

Late buses are provided for students who remain in school after the 2:15 dismissal. Three late buses depart from the school between 3:30 and 4:00. Late buses are scheduled for every school day except Friday. It is impossible, from a financial standpoint, to provide school to house transportation for every student. Late bus routes cover all the major roads and it is hoped that where necessary, parents will cooperate by providing transportation from the bus to the home.

Students must present a Late Bus Pass to the bus driver when taking a late bus. Late bus passes are to be given by the teacher for whom the student stays. Loitering in the corridors, particularly after school, is not permitted. If a student remains after school, he/she must have a definite reason and should be in the process of carrying it out.

Any student who plans to withdraw from school shall discuss this matter with his/her assigned guidance counselor or the Principal as soon as possible. The last day a pupil plans to be in school, he/she shall report to the guidance counselor to secure a withdrawal form to be completed in the following manner:

Bring the withdrawal form to each teacher; submit all books, money owed, equipment, etc. to each teacher concerned; and secure the teacher’s initials to signify that clearance has been completed.

Go to the guidance counselor for a final interview.

Return the withdrawal form to the Principal who will then sign the form granting the pupil permission to withdraw from school on the date indicated.

 

Each teacher conducts a Department Night each week from 2:20 p.m. to 3:20 p.m. The purposes of Department Nights are as follows:

To provide an opportunity for students to obtain additional help in class work which they have been unable to master in the regular class time;

To provide an opportunity for students who have been absent to make up lost work and examinations;

To encourage pupils to accept responsibility for completing their tasks by giving them a definite schedule for meeting with teachers.

Students should look upon Department Nights as an opportunity extended to them to help with their schoolwork. Under no circumstances should Department Night be regarded as punishment. Students are encouraged to attend voluntarily. Students who need extra help will be requested to stay by their teachers.

Students are expected to be in their designated homeroom by 7:48 a.m. At 7:45 the bell will ring to alert students to proceed to their respective homerooms. The 7:48 a.m. bell indicates the start of homeroom. Any student arriving after this bell is considered tardy to school and unexcused. Attendance will be taken and morning announcements will follow the 7:48 a.m. bell.

During homeroom students will be requested to stand for a moment of silence and to pledge to the flag. Morning announcements follow during which valuable school related information is given. Once announcements are completed, students may pass to their first class.

Students are expected to turn in their excused absence notes to their homeroom teachers. It is expected that the student will present such a note without being asked. It is the student’s responsibility to present the note.

Good manners should prevail in both cafeterias at all times. Accepted standards of cleanliness, courtesy, and conduct are expected during the lunch period. The cafeteria is the place for consumption of food and drink, not the classroom or the corridors. Paper items should be disposed of in the provided trash barrels. Trash and silverware should be returned to the designated areas and tables and floor areas should be kept absolutely clean. Teachers are assigned for cafeteria supervision and are in charge of maintaining good student conduct during lunch. Students are not to leave the cafeteria area without permission. Loitering in the restrooms during lunch time will subject a student to disciplinary action. Students are expected to report to the lunch period assigned; failure to do so will be treated as a class cut.

Evacuation drills are held regularly throughout the year. At the sound of the alarm, each class leaves the building immediately through the exit designated for that particular location, and proceeds to a specific location outside the building. Each student should know the exit and passing routes designated for the various rooms in which he/she is scheduled throughout the day. Each student should walk as rapidly as possible, showing general courtesy and serious attitude toward the drill. This results in the school being cleared in the shortest possible time. Students must return to the building at the sound of the bell.

Community expectations of the high school include the expectation that students will practice good manners and conduct while in school and while in attendance at such school-sponsored activities as athletic contests, assemblies, concerts, field trips, formal and informal dances, etc. It is therefore important that school rules include regulations which delineate standards of acceptable student conduct necessary to preserve educational decorum.

It is therefore expected that:

Students will refrain from placing their hands on other students or displaying overt affection, i.e. kissing, hugging, etc.;

Students will not sit on the floors of corridors or classrooms as well as upon tables and desks;

Students will not shout, use profanity or offensive language, engage in rough play or fighting, or engage in destructive behaviors toward school properties or individual properties; and, of course, adherence to all school rules is expected of all students.

Students will maintain a respectful attitude and conversation toward all members of the school community – faculty, students, and administrators.

The same expectations that exist for school behavior also exist for classroom behavior. Additionally, the classroom teacher will establish whatever other policies and procedures that are felt to be appropriate to the particular setting and subject as long as these are not in conflict with the general rules of the school.

Failure to comply with the above will result in disciplinary action.

STUDENT DRESS

Scituate High School encourages students to dress and groom themselves in an appropriate manner. Any dress or appearance which clearly constitutes a threat to health or safety to students or disrupts the educational process is prohibited. We realize that the responsibility of dress is a matter for both the student and parent/guardian, however, we expect that each student would wear such attire that does not offend modesty. Therefore, certain guidelines are noted below:

That Bermuda shorts and jams will be acceptable attire BUT running shorts, cut-offs, silk shorts, spandex, or short shorts will not be permitted;

That all shirts and blouses must fully cover the waist and undergarments and the mid-area is to be covered at all times;

That no hats or outdoor jackets or coats are to be worn in the building except with the permission of the principal where special medical circumstances exist;

That no clothing with messages that mention alcohol, drugs, violence, sex, profanity, scatology, or hate language or illustrations or symbols of the same or illustrations or symbols that are derogatory may be worn;

That sun glasses may not be worn in school unless medical reasons exist;

That muscle shirts, tank top shirts, T-strap shirts and mesh shirts, if worn, must be accompanied by another shirt or blouse worn at the same time;

That no garment or accessories shall be worn which can contribute to unsafe classroom conditions, or which are designed as potential weapons; and

Interpretation of these rules shall be in the sole discretion of the administration.

 

Good discipline in the school is extremely important to the school program. For without good discipline, the school cannot discharge its responsibility in the development of good citizenship. Without good discipline, students cannot realize their greatest opportunities for growth.

The Scituate School Committee recognizes the right of a student to receive an education. Our schools exist for this purpose. In recognition of this basic right of students, it becomes the responsibility of the school authorities to provide and maintain a suitable environment for learning. The school committee expects that the school’s administration will do everything in its power to maintain and facilitate the educational program so that the individual needs of each student are met to the greatest possible degree. It becomes the responsibility of each student to conduct himself in such a way to promote a good learning environment for him and others. Standards of good citizenship are expected of all students. Individual conduct shall reflect consideration for the rights of others; respect for persons and property; and conformity to school rules and regulations so to maintain a proper school environment. When student infractions of the discipline code occur, the Scituate School District utilizes a number of strategies as consequences for violation of the school rules. Among those strategies are Parent/Guardian Conference, After School Detention, In-school Suspension, and Out of School Suspension. Parents/guardians will be notified by phone or mail when students are assigned consequences for violation of school rules.

HIGH SCHOOL DETENTION POLICY

After school detention begins at 2:25 p.m. and ends at 3:30 p.m.

The date on which students serve their detention will not be left to their discretion but to the discretion of the administration.

Students who are late to a detention will be given an additional day of detention.

Students who fail to report for after school detention will be given two additional days of after school detention.

Students will not serve two teachers’ detentions during the same time.

Teachers may keep students after school without 24-hour notice.

Note: Students who are detained by a classroom teacher for less than one hour will be sent or escorted by the teacher to the after school detention room for the remainder of the hour.

In School Suspension begins at 8:00 a.m. and ends at 3:30 p.m.

Students placed on in-school suspension are to report to the ISS Room (A-8) immediately after homeroom, bringing with them the materials and books they will need for that day. No personal reading material is allowed.

Assignments will be requested from teachers. Students will be given these assignments at the appropriate period of the day. Failure to do the assigned work will result in a zero (0) for that work.

Students will remain seated and quiet unless otherwise instructed by the supervisor. Students will not be allowed to sleep.

Students will eat during the first lunch period. Lunch trays will be returned by a staff member. Students will only be allowed to eat or drink at lunch time.

As a group, students will be allowed to go to the lavatory at three designated times: 10:15 a.m., 12:45 p.m., and 2:00 p.m.

Excluding lunch time and lavatory times, students will not be allowed to leave the ISS Room unless authorized by an administrator.

Any student who exhibits disruptive behavior and fails to obey the instructions of the supervisor will be removed from ISS and sent to the office. A parent will be contacted to come and remove that student from school. If a parent cannot be contacted or is unable to come to school, that student will remain in the office until the end of the day. That student will not be allowed to return to school until a parent conference is conducted with an administrator. An additional day of in-school suspension or out of school suspension will be assigned.

Students forfeit the opportunity to participate in athletics or other extracurricular activities or to be on school grounds after hours during the day(s) assigned to ISS.

 

The Superintendent or Building Administrator may temporarily suspend any pupil on account of disobedience or misconduct and in accordance with school rules. The Scituate School Committee, after a proper hearing, may exclude any student for such time as it may determine, or permanently expel the student. School Committee policy states that any student who has reached his/her sixteenth birthday may be excluded from school for improper conduct.

Suspensions for ten (10) days or less may be made by the Superintendent or Building Administrator. Suspensions for more than ten (10) days and expulsions shall be made by the School Committee.

No student with a disability as specified by the Rhode Island Board of Regents Guidelines shall be excluded, suspended, or withdrawn from school for reasons deriving only from the handicapping condition. The sole exception to this regulation shall be made by the Superintendent of Schools. A student so excluded shall be afforded home tutoring and counseling therapy as determined by the evaluation team in an effort to determine a reassignment to a program which can better meet the specific needs of the student.

For Suspensions of ten (10) days or less:

That the student be given oral or written notice of the charges against him/her;

That if the student denies the charges, the student be given an explanation of the evidence the authorities possess;

That the student be given the opportunity to present his/her version;

That notice and hearing generally should precede the student’s removal from school but if prior notice and hearing are not feasible, as where the student’s presence endangers persons or property or threatens disruption of the academic process, thus justifying immediate removal from school, the necessary notice or hearing shall follow as soon as practicable;

That in the event a student has not attained the age of eighteen (18), notice containing the reason for suspension and the duration thereof be given to the parent(s) or legal guardian. Such notice shall be given in the parent’s/guardian’s spoken language, unless it is clearly not feasible to do so.

Any suspension issued by the administration may be appealed. This appeal must be submitted before 8:00 a.m. the day the suspension is to be served. If the appeal is denied, the decision may be appealed to the Superintendent of Schools. This appeal must be scheduled and heard within two days following the denial by the Principal.

For Suspensions of more than ten (10) days and expulsions:

Prior to suspension or expulsions, except for such time as not feasible, as where the student’s presence endangers persons or property or threatens disruption of the academic process, thus justifying immediate removal from school, the necessary notice of hearing shall follow as soon as practicable. The student shall be afforded:a clear written statement of the reason for suspension or expulsion;

notice of the right to prompt public or private hearing at the student’s election and the right to be represented by counsel at such hearing; and

if a hearing is requested, the student shall be given a prompt notice, setting the time

and place of such hearing, said time and place to be reasonably set so as to allow sufficient time for preparation, without undue delay.

In the event a student has not attained the age of eighteen (18) the parent(s) or legal guardian shall be afforded the procedures stated in Sections a, b, & c above. Such notice is written in the parent’s/guardian’s spoken language, unless it is clearly not feasible to do so.The student shall be afforded a hearing at which the student shall have the right to representation and participation by counsel, cross-examination of witness(s), and presentation of witness(s) in his/her behalf.

There shall be a complete and accurate stenographic or electronic record of the hearing including all exhibits. The record shall be preserved for transmission to the Commissioner of Education as soon as possible in the event of an appeal.

The student shall be furnished a copy of the record without cost.

A written decision shall be rendered within a reasonable time based therefore.

The student shall promptly be provided with a copy of said decision.

A copy of the decision, together with the record, shall be forwarded promptly to the Commissioner of Education if there is an appeal.

 

 

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 states:

"No person . . . shall on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, or be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance."

In accordance with the Regulations for implementing Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Scituate School Department established the following procedures for resolving student complaints:

Section 1. Definitions

"Days" means school attendance days; actual working days for complaints filed by non-teaching staff.

"Department" means the Scituate School Department.

A "Complaint" is a charge alleging an action or inaction by the department which violates Title IX or the implementing regulations for Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972.

"Title IX Coordinator" means that employee designated by the department to coordinate its efforts to comply with and carry out its responsibilities under Title IX and the implementing regulations.

"Student" means a person enrolled in one of the schools operated by the department.

"Principal" means the chief administrator of the school building.

"Non-teaching staff" – all positions not covered by state certification bureau.

Section 2. Procedure

All complaints by students shall be handled in the following manner:

Step One: Building Level

Within fifteen (15) days of the time that the student or parent knew or reasonably should have known of the alleged violation or within ten (10) days of the publication of this complaint procedure, whichever is later, the complainant shall present the complaint in writing to the building Principal.

Such written complaint(s) shall:

Name the student involved.

State the facts giving rise to the complaint and the date(s) of the alleged violation.

Identify the specific provisions of Title IX or the implementing regulations alleged to be violated.

Indicate the specific relief requested.

Specific forms for Title IX complaints are available in each school office, the administration building, and from the Title IX Coordinator.

Within ten (10) days after the presentation of the complaint, the principal shall answer the complaint in writing to the complainant and the Title IX Coordinator or Designee.

 

Step Two: Title IX Coordinator

Within five (5) days of the decision rendered by the building Principal in step one, the complainant, if not assisted with said decision, may present the written complaint, along with any additional relevant information, to the department’s Title IX Coordinator or Designee.Within ten (10) days after receiving the written complaint, the Title IX Coordinator Designee shall give an answer in writing to the complainant and the building Principal.

Step Three: Superintendent

Within five (5) days of the receipt of the Title IX Coordinator or Designee’s resolution in step two, an appeal may be made to the Office of the Superintendent by filing the complaint, the Principal’s and the Title IX Coordinator’s replies, along with any relevant information to the complaint, at the Office of the Superintendent.

The Superintendent shall hear the complaint within ten (10) days after the receipt of any written complaint properly filed with his/her office. The complainant shall be afforded a full and fair opportunity to present evidence relevant to the facts and to the issues raised by the complainant and may be represented by counsel or other spokesman.

The Superintendent shall render a decision in writing within five (5) days of such hearing to the complainant, the Title IX Coordinator or Designee and the building Principal. The Superintendent shall advise, as a part of the decision, further courses of action open to the complainant.

 

In the event the complainant fails to exhaust remedies under the complaint procedure provided above, or to abide by the time limits with respect to each step, the complaint shall be presumed to be abandoned and the matter shall be settled in accordance with the department’s last answer thereto. In the event that the department fails to give its answer at any step within the time limits prescribed, the complainant shall have the right to proceed immediately to the next step. Any time limit may be extended by mutual agreement of the complainant and the department.

Any settlement or offer of settlement of a complaint shall be applicable to that complaint only and shall not be a binding authority for the disposition of any other complaint.

Inquiries relative to the complaints or actual complaints or discrimination may also be made by contacting the Office for Civil Rights, Department of Health, Education and Welfare, Washington, D.C. 20201, or the Regional Office for Civil Rights, Department of HEW, Boston, MA 02203. The Scituate School District, contact person for any complaint regarding Title IX guidelines is Mrs. Kristen Stringfellow, Assistant Superintendent, 197 Danielson Pike, North Scituate, RI 02857, telephone 401.647.4100.

The learning experiences that occur in the classrooms of Scituate High School are meaningful and essential parts of each student’s education. Time lost from class is irretrievable. Daily classroom interaction among students and teachers presents a unique learning opportunity inadequately duplicated by makeup work assigned to students who have been absent from class.

The professional staff of Scituate High School teaches and expects responsible student behavior, including regular class attendance as an essential part of a student’s course of study. Therefore, the policy establishes limits on student absences to emphasize the primary importance of the classroom learning experience and to better foster each student’s personal responsibility for daily attendance.

Students will not be penalized for the first four (4) absences in a quarter whether excused or unexcused.

As of the fifth and each subsequent absence in a quarter, the student will have five points per absence deducted from the quarter average for each unexcused absence.

No student will receive a quarter grade below 50 due to absence reductions.

Students absent from class for the following reasons will be considered excused absent.

School sponsored activities

Illness/injury with proper documentation submitted no later than five school days after returning to school

Extenuating personal/family circumstances with administrator approval

Students serving In-School Suspension and Out of School Suspension are not considered absent.

Students missing more than twenty (20) minutes of a class are considered absent.

Appeal of a student’s quarter attendance record may be made after four (4) absences from a class.

The student and parent/guardian will initiate the appeals process by submitting a written request with supporting documentation for each absence under appeal.

Appeal conferences will be conducted by an appeals committee during the first two weeks of the quarter following the end of the marking period. The appeals committee will include 1 administrator (assistant principal), 2 teachers selected by the STA, 2 students selected by the student council, and 2 parents selected by the PEP.

To enhance an efficient appeal process, the administrator on the committee will monitor absences throughout the quarter.

The administrator will notify teachers of the status of absences and appeals.

The teacher must take attendance for each academic class and record it in the grade book (official record).

The teacher must notify the assistant principal’s office when a student records his/her third absence from class. The teacher should counsel the student on the third absence.

The teacher must notify the assistant principal’s office when a student records his/her fourth absence from class.

The teacher must record each successive class absence after the fourth but need not notify the assistant principal’s office.

The administrator must notify parent/guardian of fourth absence.

The administrator must provide an appeal process for absences exceeding the fourth absence.

 

If a student needs to leave school early, the student must present a note signed by a parent or guardian. This note must contain the date and time of dismissal, reason for dismissal, and a telephone number for verification. This note must be presented to the high school office by 8:55 a.m. the day of the dismissal. Students will be excused early for only valid reasons, which include medical appointments, funerals, drivers’ tests, and for work only if dismissed on a study period.

Students absent from school without parental permission and a valid excuse will be considered truant. Truancy will be handled in the following manner.

1^st offense: six (6) hours of after school detention – one for each class period missed

 

2^nd offense: one (1) day of in-school suspension combined with six (6) hours of after school detention

 

3^rd offense: two (2) days of in-school suspension combined with six (6) hours of after school detention; or out of school suspension

 

Students, upon arrival to school on their respective buses or by motor vehicle, are to report either to the high school cafeteria or the middle school cafeteria where they are to wait until dismissed to homerooms at 7:40 a.m. Students are not to loiter in the parking lots nor leave school grounds once they have arrived.

Students are to be in their homerooms by 7:48 a.m. Students arriving to homeroom or school after this time will be recorded as tardy. Students who arrive after the completion of homeroom must report to the Office of the Principal. Failure to do so will result in disciplinary action.

Students will be allowed three unexcused tardiness per semester. Parents will be notified by letter following the 3^rd tardiness. Every third offense will have the following consequence:

4^th and 7^th offense: one (1) hour of after school detention

10^th offense: one (1) hour of after school detention and loss of parking privileges for ten (10) school days if tardiness is a result of driving to school

subsequent offenses will result in additional disciplinary action, which may include suspension

Parental notes for tardiness will be accepted only in emergency or unusual cases. Such cases include a medical appointment, attendance at a funeral, or any other reason deemed legitimate by an administrator.

Students have five minutes to travel from one class to the next. The five-minute passing time is not free time for students to use as they please. A warning bell at the four-minute point of passing serves to warn students they have only one minute to report to class. Teachers will monitor student tardiness to class. Students who have been tardy to class more than three times in a semester will be referred to the administration for disciplinary action. Those students who chronically arrive late to class subject themselves to disciplinary action which may include after school detention, in-school suspension, or out of school suspension. Every third offense will have a consequence.

4^th and 7^th offense: one (1) hour after school detention

10^th offense: one (1) hour of after school detention; subsequent offenses will result in additional disciplinary action which may include suspension

 

Attendance to all assigned classes, including study halls, is mandatory. Unauthorized absence from class (class cutting) will result in disciplinary action by the administration. Students who cut class will be disciplined as follows:

Students will receive a zero for work missed because of cutting class and

1^st offense: three (3) hours of after school detention

2^nd offense: four (4) hours of after school detention

3^rd offense: in-school suspension combined with four hours of after school detention; or out of school suspension

The Rhode Island Smoke-Free Schools Act and Scituate School Committee policy prohibit students from smoking in school buildings, on school grounds, while traveling on buses to and from school, and at school-sponsored activities. The hazards of smoking are well documented. It shall be the purpose of this policy to set standards and guidelines which will assure school district compliance with state law while at the same time protecting the rights of students, employees, and the general public and creating an environment which serves to reinforce its efforts in the teaching about the hazards of smoking.

Any student found in violation of the above policy will be subject to the following disciplinary action:

1^st offense: six (6) hours of detention and referral to Student Assistance Counselor

2^nd offense: one (1) day of in-school suspension combined with six (6) hours of after

school detention, parent conference, and second referral to Student Assistance Counselor

3^rd offense: three (3) days of out of school suspension (suspension will be revoked if student enrolls in a smoking cessation program at his/her expense)

Any student in possession of, using, under the influence of, delivering or selling any controlled substance or alcohol on school grounds or while representing the school or participating in a school sponsored activity will be subject to severe penalties. Controlled substances are as defined by General Laws of Rhode Island 21-26.

Any student violating this section with respect to Schedule I, II, or III controlled substances other than marijuana shall be subject to the following penalties:

First Offense: not to exceed ten (10) days out of school suspension by the Superintendent or building Administrator.

Any subsequent offense: referral to the School Committee which may suspend for more than ten (10) days out of school or may expel.

Additional penalties: Any student who is suspended pursuant to the above shall also be suspended for a period of time not to exceed ninety (90) school days from participating in or attendance at any after school or extracurricular activity including graduation

ceremonies, except after school detention or extra academic help.

 

Any student violating this section with respect to alcohol or any Schedule IV or V controlled substances or marijuana shall be subject to the following penalties:

First offense: not to exceed five (5) days out of school suspension by the Superintendent or building Administrator.

Second offense: not to exceed ten (10) days out of school suspension by the Superintendent or building administrator.

Any subsequent offense: referral to the School Committee which may suspend for more than ten (10) days out of school or may expel.

Additional penalties: Any student who is suspended pursuant to the above shall also be suspended for a period of time not to exceed forty-five (45) school days from participating in or attendance at any after school or extracurricular activity, including graduation ceremonies, except after school detention or extra academic help.

Whenever in the judgment of the Superintendent an offense which ordinarily provides for a suspension not to exceed ten (10) days is so flagrant or serious as to render the penalty inappropriate, the matter shall be referred directly to the School Committee which may suspend for more than ten (10) days out of school or may expel.

 

The Scituate School Committee recognizes the rights of all students to be educated in a safe and nurturing environment. To this end the Scituate School Committee will provide and maintain a school environment that is conducive to learning.

The Scituate School Committee and administration expect students to respect and meet the behavioral expectations of the district. These include respect for the rights and property of other students, school staff, and the community. It is also expected that the students will resolve conflicts through nonviolent means. Therefore, the Scituate School Committee establishes a zero tolerance policy for weapons and violence in the schools.

Implementation of this policy shall be in accordance with due process requirements applicable to regular or special education students as the case may be.

The following types of offenses could lead to suspension from school:

Excessive tardiness to school and to class

Cutting class

Failure to attend detention as assigned

Truancy from school

Smoking in school buildings, on school grounds, on school buses, or at school-sponsored activities

Leaving school grounds without permission during regular school hours (including lunch time)

Use of obscene or profane language directed toward other students or school staff members

Failure to carry out the reasonable directions of a staff member

Repeated violations of existing rules and incorrigible classroom behavior

Destruction of School Property

Verbal and/or physical harassment of other students or teachers

Threatening or assuming a threatening attitude toward students or school staff members

Physical attacks upon other students (fighting)

Physical attacks upon school staff

Possession of any kind of weapon such as a knife, a gun, a blackjack, etc. in school or on school grounds

Violation of Substance Abuse Policy

Any other offense the administration deems necessary

Students are not allowed to participate in or attend any school activity during a period of suspension.

All students are encouraged to try some form of athletics to realize the maximum education benefit available at Scituate High School. The challenge and intensity of effort of athletic competition, whether intramural or interscholastic, will provide experiences, which will undoubtedly help students in preparation for adult life in our society.

A balanced program of interscholastic athletic offerings is available for boys and girls. Offerings include basketball, baseball, softball, tennis, volleyball, soccer, golf (co-ed), swimming, and cross-country.

Selection for an athletic team begins with respective coaches conducting a sign-up meeting with prospective student-athletes. The necessary paperwork, including a schedule for try-outs, will be distributed. Only eligible students will be allowed to try-out; students may only try-out for one athletic team in any one season. Coaches will determine how many athletes will comprise a team; they will conduct and supervise the try-outs; and they will inform the athletes of the criteria that will be used to select the members of a team. Depending on the number of students who express interest in a team,

a try-out period may not be necessary. Once members of a team have been selected and if a student has a question about the selection process, he/she may meet with the coach(es) to discuss that process. If the student is not satisfied following this meeting, he/she may meet with the Director of Athletics. If this meeting fails to resolve the issue(s), a meeting with the Principal may be arranged. If necessary, meetings with the Superintendent and School Committee may be requested. Being selected to a team does not guarantee a student-athlete of playing time. Selection to a team does allow for the student-athlete to participate in all practices and in games as the coach deems appropriate.

Must be a student in good standing;

Must comply with the Eligibility Requirements for Participation in Athletics and Extracurricular Activities; and

While enrolled in school, any student reaching his/her 19th birthday before September 1 is eligible.

 

Use of drugs or alcohol by student athletes will lead to suspension from a team;

Student must be a bona-fide member of a team at the conclusion of the season;

The rules of conduct per the Athletic Manual must be followed;

Dismissal from a team during the season will make that student ineligible to receive an award for that sport; and

Dismissal from a team may be appealed per the Athletic Manual.

 

Any student-athlete who plans to enroll in a Division I or II college and wishes to participate in athletics must be certified by the NCAA Initial-Eligibility Clearinghouse. The Clearinghouse ensures consistent interpretation of NCAA initial-eligibility requirements for all prospective student-athletes at all member institutions.

To be certified by the Clearinghouse, a student must (1) graduate from high school; (2) earn a Grade Point Average (GPA) of at least 2.0 in a core curriculum of at least 13 academic courses taken during grades 9 through 12; and (3) earn a composite score of at least a 17 on the ACT or a combined score of at least 700 on the SAT on a national test date. Although student-athletes need not start the certification process until the end of their junior year, it is important that students elect the required core curriculum courses beginning in the freshman year. Questions regarding the Clearinghouse requirements should be discussed with the student's respective guidance counselor.

Recognizing the importance of good sportsmanship on the part of all athletes, coaches, and spectators at high school athletic events, the Scituate School Committee endorses the sportsmanship policy adopted by the Rhode Island Interscholastic League (RIIL). In accordance with this policy, each coach will receive a copy of the RIIL Manual. All athletes and parents will receive a letter from the Athletic Director addressing the importance of sportsmanship and their role in assuring that all participants (including opposing teams, fans, and officials) experience a positive atmosphere at SHS contests.

Any student or coach ejected from a contest will meet with the Director of Athletics and the Principal to discuss the nature of the ejection and what will be done to ensure that a repeat performance will not occur. The ejected person will complete a questionnaire issued by the RIIL. This questionnaire will be approved by the Director of Athletics and the Principal and forwarded to the RIIL Office before the ejected person can participate in another contest. The ejected person must sit out the next contest and cannot be anywhere near the contest. A second ejection will result in a suspension for the remainder of the season as well as being placed on probation by the Director of Athletics.

Spectators involved in any type of taunting, baiting, harassment, fighting, or derogatory comments toward players, coaches, officials or other fans will be subjected to immediate removal from the contest. Their attendance at future contests may be revoked. It is the goal of all involved in Scituate athletics that all participants have a positive and pleasurable experience when attending athletic contests.

Scituate High School students and their guests may attend dances. Middle school students are not permitted to attend high school dances. Guest passes must be requested by 1:30 p.m. on the day of the dance. Scituate students are responsible for informing their guests that smoking, use of drugs or alcohol is prohibited on school property. Arriving to a school-sponsored dance under the influence of drugs or alcohol will result in disciplinary action. All students are to remain inside the gymnasium and lobby during the dance. Absence/suspension from school on the day of a dance will preclude a student's attendance from the dance. Students must arrive to the dance within one-half hour of the dance's starting time and will not be allowed to leave until one-half hour before the dance's conclusion. In order to attend the Junior-Senior Prom, one couple member must be a junior or senior.

All students are issued copies of textbooks for the courses in which they are enrolled. Each teacher issuing textbooks will keep a class record of the textbooks issued, listing the name of the student to whom the textbook was issued, textbook title, identification number, condition (New, Good, Fair, Poor). Students are responsible for preserving the condition of all textbooks issued to them, which include covering the textbooks and properly storing them in the student's locker. Administrators and teachers are responsible for enforcing this regulation.

Students will be held responsible for returning the textbooks in essentially the same condition as received. If a student returns a textbook that has declined in condition by two categories (New to Fair and Good to Poor), the student will be charged for that decline in value, which is 50% of the purchase price. Price guides are established as follows: New (100%); Good (75%); Fair (50%); and Poor (25%). Book values based on current price and condition of the textbook will be determined and listed in advance by the Department Chair. If requested, students and/or parents will be notified of book values at the time the item is issued.

Students will not be issued another textbook until payment for the lost or damaged textbook is received. Notices will be sent to parents stating what has been lost or damaged and the amount due. Copies of this policy should be enclosed with the notice. Based on condition of the textbook, a refund

will be issued to the student if the original textbook is found and returned. Students shall be issued materials and equipment in some specialized courses in addition to textbooks. The same procedures will be followed regarding lost or damaged materials and equipment as for textbooks.

All monies collected will be given to the Principal or his/her designee and a receipt will be issued. These monies will be deposited in a textbook/equipment replacement fund account. Only the replacement of textbooks and equipment will be bought with this fund with the approval of the Superintendent's Office. Any funds unspent as of July 1 of each year will be used to offset that part of the budget used to purchase new textbooks and equipment.

The basic premise, which must be understood, is that the riding of a school bus is not an absolute right but a conditional right. A student does not ride a bus under any conditions but under reasonable rules established by the governing authority or designee. Should a student violate any rules, he/she does so at his/her own peril. The following rules are posted in each bus:

On entering bus, move in an orderly manner to a seat;

Sit three in a seat when necessary and remain seated;

Do not stand in front of the front steps of the bus because it interferes with the driver;

Do not eat on the bus;

Keep your voice down and no loud talking or shouting;

A bus driver has the same authority in his/her bus as a teacher in his/her classroom. Passengers who do not obey bus regulations will not be transported; and

Smoking is prohibited at all times.

Students failing to cooperate with these rules will be penalized as follows:

There is a two week suspension from bus privileges on the first offense for carrying weapons, use of profanity, use of firecrackers, causing an open flame, fighting, malicious damage to buses, and throwing articles out of/in the bus;

Other offenses such as smoking, undesirable behavior, and petting will result in a warning on the first offense and loss of bus privileges on the second offense. The length of time (not to exceed two weeks) will be determined by the Administration.

Out of town students will deal directly with the Superintendent of Schools. All rules pertain to field trips and school sponsored functions. Each student is required to return a copy of the rules, signed by a parent/guardian, to the respective bus driver. Failure to do so will result in suspension of bus privileges until a signed copy is returned.

School bus complaints by drivers, parents/guardians, or student will be made on school bus complaint forms. These completed forms are to be given to the Administration for action. If a student is suspended from riding the bus, several days of grace time may be given in order that parents/guardians have an opportunity to arrange transportation for their child, who must attend school under school and state attendance laws.

The Library/Media Center is open each school day from 7:40 a.m. until 3:25 p.m. with the exception of days when there are no Late Buses. On these days the Library/Media Center is closed at 2:25 p.m.

To use the Library during study periods, students sign-up in the Library between 7:40 a.m. and 10:50 a.m. This is a commitment for the entire period. Lateness and class cutting rules apply, and students are expected to report with any and all materials needed for the period.

Books and other circulating materials are borrowed for a loan period of 14 to 20 days. All due dates are Wednesdays. Students may borrow books using the automated sign-out system, and are responsible for all materials signed-out in their names. There are no fines for overdue books, but lost or damaged books and materials must be paid for according to the Lost or Damaged Textbook, Materials and Equipment policy. Reference books and periodicals are used in the Library only or in the classroom/study for the hour.

Students using the Library are expected to work quietly and respect the rights of fellow students by promptly returning materials needed by others. Library privileges may be revoked for those students who fail to follow the rules and acceptable standards of good manners and behavior associated with the Library.

Because Scituate High School is a member of RILINET, students may obtain books, periodicals, et cetera from other member libraries. The privilege gives students access to the statewide library resources. To obtain such materials, students must complete a library loan request.

Students needing assistance or instruction in the use of the Library should ask for help. The librarian and aides are always available to give assistance with library-centered assignments or in the search for recreational and research materials

The Scituate School District is committed to providing an educational environment that is free of sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated in any form at any level of the school system.

It is also a violation of this policy to condone sexual harassment by another person. For purposes of this policy, to "condone" sexual harassment means to participate in such harassment by inciting, encouraging, fostering or otherwise giving support or approval to that harassment, whether by words or actions. Also prohibited is any retaliation against any other person because he/she complains of sexual harassment or assists in an investigation of harassment and any intimidation, coercion or other attempted interference with an investigation of a harassment complaint.

The Scituate School District will take seriously all complaints of sexual harassment, the condoning of sexual harassment retaliation, or inaction in cases of suspected sexual harassment, and will have each complaint thoroughly and promptly investigated.

Sexual Harassment by a Student

Students are prohibited from making unwelcome sexual advances or requests for sexual favors and from engaging in any other verbal or physical conduct of sexual nature when those advances, requests or conduct have the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with the education of any student or the working environment of any employee by creating an intimidating, hostile, humiliating or sexually offensive educational or working environment.

As noted above, any condoning of sexual harassment and any retaliation against a student or employee because he/she complains of sexual harassment or assists an investigation of such a complaint is also prohibited.

Sexual Harassment by an Employee

It is a violation of this policy for any teacher, administrator or other employee, male or female, to sexually harass a student or another employee. For purposes of this prohibition, sexual harassment means any sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.

When submission to or rejection of such advances, requests or conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly;

A term or condition of the provision of educational benefits, privileges or placement services or as a basis for the evaluation of academic achievement of a student; or

A term or condition of employment or as a basis for employment decisions of any employee; or

When such advances, requests or conduct have the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with a student’s education or an employee’s work performance by creating an intimidating, hostile, humiliating or sexually offensive educational or working environment, any condoning of the sexual harassment of a student or employee by another and any retaliation against a student or employee because she/he complains of sexual harassment or assists an investigation of such a complaint is also prohibited.

Whether particular language or conduct constitutes sexual harassment depends upon the circumstances of the incident and will be determined by the applicable school and/or the School District on a case-by-case basis. The following are, however, some examples of language and conduct which all students and employees of the School District are cautioned to avoid. This is not an exhaustive list.

Comments to, or about, any student or employee of his/her appearance that are sexually graphic or would otherwise tend to be degrading

Touching or other forms of physical contact that is inappropriate

Jokes or other remarks with sexual content that is graphic or may otherwise be offensive to others

Sexually suggestive sounds or gestures

Display of objects, posters or pictures of a sexual nature

A repetition of any words or conduct of a sexual nature after the person addressed has indicated that such words or conduct is unwelcome

Sexual harassment does not refer to compliments or other behavior of a socially acceptable nature. It refers to language and conduct of a sexual nature that is unwelcome and that would be offensive to a reasonable person. Sexual harassment may be blatant or subtle; but whatever form it takes, verbal or physical, it is insulting and demeaning to the recipient and will not be tolerated.

IV. Complaints

If any student or employee believes that he/she has been subjected to sexual harassment, whether by a student, a school employee or any other person who comes on school property with permission, or that he/she has witnessed the sexual harassment of another, the student or employee should report the incident promptly to the Principal, the Assistant Principal, the Superintendent, the Assistant Superintendent, or any other administrator with whom the student or employee feels comfortable.

A complaint of sexual harassment by a student, or by a parent on the student’s behalf, may also be made to any counselor or teacher. A counselor or teacher who receives such a complaint will notify the appropriate administrator to initiate an investigation.

It is the policy of the Scituate School Committee to have all complaints of sexual harassment promptly and fully investigated and to take any steps necessary to remedy the situation.

Normally, the investigation of a complaint of sexual harassment will be conducted by the Principal or Assistant Principal and will include separate private interviews with the complainant, each person accused of harassment and each of the witnesses, if any. The interview will ordinarily be documented by the administrator conducting the investigation but those interviewed may also be asked to provide a written statement. All students and employees are expected to cooperate fully with any investigation of sexual harassment.

Information provided during an investigation of sexual harassment will be treated as confidential. This means that such information will be shared with others on a need-to-know basis only. The parent or guardian of a student complainant and those accused may be notified. In appropriate circumstances, as determined by the investigating administrator, the accused may be informed of the identity of the complainant or witnesses, but, in those circumstances, the accused will be cautioned against reprisals or recriminations or any attempted intimidation or coercion of the complainant or witnesses.

At the conclusion of the investigation, the administrator will prepare a report, which will be shared with both the complainant, the person or persons accused of harassment, and Superintendent. If the complainant or the accused is dissatisfied with the results of the investigation, either may discuss the issue directly with the Superintendent.

A student found to have engaged in sexual harassment is subject to disciplinary sanctions, up to and including suspension, in or out of school, or permanent exclusion from the school.

An employee found to have engaged in sexual harassment is subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.

Any retaliation, discrimination or other adverse action, such as intimidation, threats or coercion, taken against a student or employee because she/he complains of sexual harassment or assists an investigation of harassment will also result in disciplinary sanctions, up to and including suspension, in or out of school, or permanent exclusion from school, in the case of a student, and up to and including termination of employment, in the case of an employee.

Any student or employee found to have condoned sexual harassment by another may, depending upon the extent of his/her participation, be subject to disciplinary sanctions, up to and including suspension, in or out of school or permanent expulsion, in the case of a student, or termination of employment, in the case of an employee.

NON-CREDIT ELECTIVE PERIODS

 

Periods 8 and 9 are designed to afford students an opportunity to become involved in cocurricular activities. Students who are in band or chorus use Period 9 to rehearse as one group. Activities and organizations such as the Yearbook, Future Farmers of America, Future Business Leaders of America, Foreign Language Club and the Chess Club are conducted usually during Period 8. Students who elect not to participate in an activity will remain in their homerooms, which will be conducted as study halls. New activities and clubs are added annually. Students are encouraged to get involved in these activities.

Alma Mater Scituate we hold you so dear

Ever onward we go whether far or near

We will sing praises high of our blue and white

Alma Mater be you near lending strength and light

We will hold our heads up high do our best for you

Glory to you we bring in all that we may do

We will sing praises high of our blue and white

Alma Mater be you near lending strength and light

Nancy DeVolve

Class of 1959

Blue and White

The Spartan

2001 - 2002

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Mother’s/Guardian’s Name (Print) Father’s/Guardian’s Name (Print)

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Address Address

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Home Telephone Home Telephone

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Mother’s Work Telephone Father’s Work Telephone

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Mother’s Cell Phone Father’s Cell Phone

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Son's/Daughter's Name (Print)

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Homeroom

My signature below indicates that I have read and reviewed with my son/daughter a copy of the 2001-2002 Student Handbook, which my son/daughter received on September 5, 2001 . I understand that it is my son's/daughter's responsibility to familiarize himself/herself with its contents.

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Parent/Guardian Signature Date

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Student Signature Date