Franklin High School

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Student Handbook

 

2011-2012

 

 

 

Peter Light, Principal

 

 

If you need to receive a copy of this handbook translated in your spoken language, [your language here], please contact the principal’s office.

 

Si usted necesita recibir una copia de este manual en su lengua hablada, los españoles, entran en contacto con por favor la oficina del principal.

 

 

Se você precisa de receber uma cópia deste manual em sua língua falada, os portuguêses, contatam por favor o escritório do principal.

 

 

如果您需要接受这本手册的拷贝在您的讲话的语言的,汉语,请与校长的办公室联系。

 

Nếu bạn cần phải nhận được một bản sao của cuốn cẩm nang này trong ngôn ngữ nói của bạn, Việt Nam, dịch, xin vui lòng liên hệ với văn phòng của hiệu trưởng.

 

यदिआपइसअपनेबोलीजानेवालीभाषा, हिंदी, मेंअनुवादकृपयाप्राचार्यके

कार्यालयसेसंपर्कपुस्तिकाकीएकप्रतिप्राप्तकरनेकीआवश्यकताहै.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FRANKLIN HIGH SCHOOL

http://franklinhigh.vt-s.net

218 Oak Street

Franklin, MA 02038-1895

The High School is staffed from 7:15 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

HIGH SCHOOL DIRECTORY

MAIN NUMBER: (508) 541-2100

EXTENSIONS

High School Receptionist: Ms. Lou McKeown                                                                              3014

 

PRINCIPAL’S OFFICE

Principal: Mr. Peter Light                                                                                                                    3011

Assistant Principal: Mr. Robert Lima                                                                                                3013

Secretary to Principal: Ms. Leslie Betts                                                                                            3011

Principal’s Office Secretary: Ms. Ivy Patten                                                                                    3012

Principal’s Office Fax:                                                                                                                          (508) 541-5248

 

A HOUSE (10thth and 12th Grade)

Assistant Principal: Mr. Derek Folan                (Gr. 10 & 12)                                                          3030

A House Secretary: Ms. Terry Beck                                                                                                 2411

Adjustment Counselor: Mr. Rene Schneeweis                                                                               2447

A House Fax:                                                                                                                                        (508) 553-0893

 

B HOUSE (9th and 11th Grade)

Assistant Principal: Ms. Nicole Champagne (Gr. 9 & 11)                                                              3020       

B House Secretary: Ms. Kathy Fausnacht                                                                                      3021

Adjustment Counselor: Ms. Michelle Brent                                                                                    2405

B House Fax:                                                                                                                                         (508) 553-0334

 

GUIDANCE

Director of Guidance: Ms. Heather McVay                                                                                     3052

Guidance Secretary: Ms. Christine Stobbart                                                                                   3051       

Guidance Counselor: Mr. David Soulard                                                                                         3055

Guidance Counselor: Mr. Joshua MacCreery                                                                                 3054

Guidance Counselor: Ms. Jodie Walsh (for Ms. Melanie McElroy)                                            3056

Guidance Counselor: Ms. Brenda Lewis (for Ms. Sascha D’Angelo)                                         3053

Guidance Counselor: Kathleen Woods                                                                                            3115

Guidance Office Fax:                                                                                                                            (508) 541-2107

 

SPECIAL EDUCATION OFFICE

Special Education Team Chair: Ms. Jan Petrin                                                                                3120

Secretary:  Karen Altwein                                                                                                                   3156

 

ADDITIONAL SCHOOL PERSONNEL

SDLP (Self-Directed Learning Program) Coordinator: Kristy Yankee                                          3167

Alternative Learning Program (ALP) Team Chair: David Brauninger                                          3960

ALP Adjustment Counselor: Ms. Kathleen Lynn                                                                          3961

Nurse: Ms. Virginia Sundberg                                                                                                           3080

School Psychologist: Dr. Donna Moilanen                                                                                     3114

School Psychologist: Andrea Devlin                                                                                               3048

Technology Specialist: Ms. Jane Hey                                                                                              3070

Athletic Director: Mr. Bradley Sidwell                                                                                              3040

School Cafeteria Office                                                                                                                       3039

Transportation: Ms. Denise Johnson                                                                                               508-553-4915

 

**PARENTS ARE ASKED TO CALL THE A-HOUSE or B-HOUSE OFFICE AT THE HIGH SCHOOL, 508-541-2100 extensions 2411 (10th and 12th grade) or 3021 (9th and 11th grade), ON THE DAYS THEIR CHILDREN WILL BE ABSENT OR TARDY.

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

I. INTRODUCTORY INFORMATION.. 8

PRINCIPAL’S WELCOME. 8

FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS: VISION, MISSION & CORE VALUES. 9

FRANKLIN HIGH SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT.. 10

Academic Expectations For Student Learning. 10

Social and Civic Expectations. 10

SCHOOL ATTENDANCE. 11

SCHOOL COMMITTEE. 12

CENTRAL ADMINISTRATION.. 12

PARENT COUNCIL. 12

GUIDANCE DEPARTMENT.. 12

ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION (ALP) 13

PROGRAM OF STUDY.. 13

II. ATTENDANCE POLICY AND PROCEDURE INFORMATION.. 13

SCHOOL AND CLASS ATTENDANCE. 13

ABSENCE CALL-IN PROCEDURE. 13

ABSENT FROM SCHOOL POLICY: Documented / Undocumented Absence. 14

COLLEGE VISITS. 15

SKIP DAYS. 15

ATTENDANCE & LOSS OF CREDIT.. 16

UNDOCUMENTED ABSENCE LIMITS (per term). 16

LOSS OF CREDIT. 16

LOSS OF CREDIT APPEAL PROCESS. 17

CREDIT RECOVERY. 17

CLASS CUTS. 17

TARDY TO SCHOOL. 18

TARDINESS TO CLASS. 18

TRUANCY.. 19

DISMISSALS FROM SCHOOL. 19

SPECIAL ATTENDANCE ISSUES. 20

LAST DAY OF SCHOOL. 20

FORGED DOCUMENT POLICY.. 20

III. ACADEMIC POLICIES AND PROCEDURES INFORMATION.. 21

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS. 21

COURSE CREDIT.. 22

CREDIT REQUIREMENTS. 22

GRADE POINT AVERAGE (GPA) CALCULATION.. 23

REPORTING OF STUDENT GRADE DISTRIBUTION: 23

TRANSFER STUDENTS/RANK IN CLASS. 23

PHYSICAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENT.. 24

HEALTH EDUCATION REQUIREMENT.. 24

HEALTH CURRICULUM EXEMPTION.. 24

GRADING.. 25

I. Grades. 25

II. Grade Reporting. 26

III. Report Cards. 26

IV. Incomplete Grade policy. 27

PROTOCOLS FOR HOME-SCHOOL COMMUNICATION.. 27

ONLINE ACCESS TO STUDENT GRADES. 28

ACADEMIC HONESTY POLICY.. 29

ADVANCED PLACEMENT PROGRAM... 30

EXTRA HELP. 31

FINAL EXAMS. 31

HOMEWORK.. 31

HOMEWORK HELP and NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY TUTORING.. 31

HONOR ROLL. 31

MAKE-UP POLICY.. 32

SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING PROGRAM (SDLP) 32

Overview: 32

Entry: 32

Eligibility: 32

Assessment: 33

Recognition. 33

Off-Campus Procedures. 33

FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS / NON-SCHOOL SPONSORED EXTENDED FIELD TRIP WAIVER.. 34

STUDENT IDENTIFICATION CARDS. 35

SUMMER SCHOOL. 35

TECHNOLOGY & RESEARCH CENTER.. 36

IV. HEALTH REQUIREMENTS, POLICIES.. 37

HEALTH SERVICES. 37

ADMINISTERING MEDICINES TO STUDENTS. 37

COMMUNICABLE DISEASES. 39

SERIOUS COMMUNICABLE DISEASE. 39

DISMISSAL BY NURSE. 39

IMMUNIZATION.. 40

MEDICAL WAIVER and PHYSICAL EDUCATION EXCUSES. 40

PREGNANCY.. 41

SCREENINGS. 41

PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS. 42

MANAGING LIFE THREATENING FOOD ALLERGIES IN THE EDUCATIONAL. 42

ENVIRONMENT.. 42

V. CODE OF CONDUCT.. 43

CLASSIFICATION & CONSEQUENCES. 44

DETENTIONS. 47

SATURDAY DETENTION PROGRAM... 48

ALTERNATIVE DISCIPLINE PROGRAM (ADP) 48

ELIGIBILITY TO PARTICIPATE IN SCHOOL ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS. 48

NO CONTACT AGREEMENT.. 49

SUSPENSIONS. 50

Academic Suspension: 50

Out-of-School Suspension: 50

ASSIGNMENT OF DISCIPLINARY CONSEQUENCES. 50

EXCLUSION/EXPULSION: 50

FELONY COMPLAINT OR CONVICTION.. 51

DUE PROCESS RIGHTS AND PROCEDURE. 52

PROCEDURES FOR DISCIPLINING STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES. 53

VI. STUDENT EXPECTATION INFORMATION.. 54

ANNOUNCEMENTS. 54

BOOKS AND EQUIPMENT.. 54

CELL PHONE AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE POLICY.. 54

CELL PHONES AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES. 55

CELL PHONE / ELECTRONIC VIDEO AND STILL-IMAGE DEVICES. 55

ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION BETWEEN STUDENTS AND STAFF/TEACHERS/COACHES POLICY.. 56

DRESS CODE. 56

EMERGENCY PROCEDURE / FIRE DRILLS. 56

FOOD IN SCHOOL AND CAFETERIA POLICY.. 57

FORBIDDEN ARTICLES. 57

FORGOTTEN ITEMS, MESSAGES, DROP OFFS. 57

GAMBLING.. 57

LOCKDOWN AND EVACUATION DRILLS. 57

LOCKERS. 57

LOST AND FOUND.. 58

NO SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS. 58

PADLOCKS. 58

PARENT/TEACHER APPOINTMENTS. 58

PASS POLICY.. 58

POSTERS. 59

VANDALISM... 59

SMOKING/TOBACCO FINES. 59

STUDENT SURVEYS. 59

WORKING PAPERS. 59

VII. TRANSPORTATION.. 59

BUS PROCEDURES. 59

BUS PASSES. 60

SCHOOL BUS RULES AND REGULATIONS. 60

MOTOR VEHICLES AND BICYCLES. 61

VIII. EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES & EVENTS.. 62

ELIGIBILITY TO PARTICIPATE IN SCHOOL ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS. 62

SCHOOL ACTIVITY & EVENT ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENT.. 62

SCHOOL ACTIVITY & ATHLETIC EVENT BEHAVIOR.. 62

SOCIAL EVENT RULES AND REGULATIONS. 63

SOCIAL EVENT CONTRACT.. 64

STUDENTS IN LEADERSHIP POSITIONS. 64

ELIGIBILITY FOR HONORARY POSITIONS. 65

COMMENCEMENT ACTIVITIES. 65

GRADUATION CEREMONY.. 65

ACADEMIC AWARDS. 65

IX. INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETICS.. 66

ATHLETICS. 66

WORLD OF DIFFERENCE PLEDGE. 67

MIAA MISSION STATEMENT.. 67

ELIGIBILITY.. 67

X. FEDERAL, STATE & LOCAL REGULATIONS.. 70

ABUSE PREVENTION (“209A” ORDERS) 70

FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS. 70

PROCEDURES FOR REPORTING CHILD ABUSE/NEGLECT.. 70

BULLYING/CYBERBULLYING PREVENTION: VISION, MISSION AND.. 73

POLICY STATEMENTS. 73

RESPONSE TO BULLYING / CYBERBULLYING FLOW CHART.. 78

. 78

CORPORAL PUNISHMENT.. 79

NON-VIOLENT PHYSICAL CRISIS INTERVENTION.. 79

DRUG / ALCOHOL POLICY.. 81

DISCRIMINATION/HARASSMENT (Chapter 76S.5) 82

HATE CRIMES. 83

HAZING REGULATIONS. 83

HEAD INJURIES AND CONCUSSION IN EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES. 84

EDUCATIONAL SERVICES IN THE HOME OR HOSPITAL. 84

HOME SCHOOLING.. 85

HOME SCHOOLING GUIDELINES. 87

TAGGING; PENALTIES; SUSPENSION OF DRIVER’S LICENSE. 88

SEXUAL HARASSMENT.. 89

EXTENDED FIELD TRIPS POLICY.. 92

CLASSROOM OBSERVATION and VISITATION PROCEDURES. 93

SERVICES FOR STUDENT WITH DISABILITIES. 95

Section 504. 95

ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNERS. 95

EDUCATIONAL SERVICES TO STUDENTS IDENTIFIED AS HOMELESS. 96

FOOD SERVICE: CHARGES AND UNCOLLECTED DEBT.. 96

STUDENT RECORDS. 97

Inspection of Record. 98

ACCESS TO STUDENT RECORDS FOR NON-CUSTODIAL PARENTS. 98

FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY.. 99

ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY.. 99

Franklin Public Schools. 100

Information Technology Acceptable Use Student Agreement Grades 6-12. 100

SCHOOL SAFETY ACT (Chapter 380) 101

ASBESTOS. 101

FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS LIAISONS/ COMPLAINT OFFICERS. 103

Memorandum of Understanding.. 104

BELL SCHEDULE. 107

SCHOOL CALENDAR 2011-2012. 108

FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS CALENDAR 2011-2012. 108

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I. INTRODUCTORY INFORMATION

 

PRINCIPAL’S WELCOME

 

 

August 2011

 

 

Dear Students and Parents:

 

I would like to take this opportunity to welcome you to the 2011-12 school year at Franklin High School. The purpose of this handbook is to provide students and families with information about the policies and procedures which govern academic and student life at the school. The policies and procedures set forth in this handbook are designed to promote a rigorous, safe and nurturing environment for students that enable the high school community to focus on the learning process.

 

If you are new to Franklin High School, it is important that you read the entire handbook to ensure that you are familiar with the policies and procedures of the school. If you are returning to the school, you may wish to familiarize yourself with all policies and procedures, but focus on those policies which have changed from previous years. In order that this is easier for returning students, we have highlighted those policies which are new or have been revised.

 

I look forward to working with each of you over the course of the year and hope that Franklin High School is able to support you in your learning.

 

 

Regards,

 

 

Peter Light

Principal

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS: VISION, MISSION & CORE VALUES

 

 

FRANKLIN HIGH SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT

Franklin High School exists as a covenant among students, parents, staff and the community. This collaboration promotes a rigorous, safe and nurturing environment in which students are responsible and passionate learners. In an atmosphere of equality, acceptance and respect, students prepare to contribute to our democratic society and an interdependent world.

 

Academic Expectations For Student Learning

In order for Franklin High School students to become responsible and passionate learners, we expect them to be able to:

1. Communicate effectively through

a. Listening

b. Speaking

c. Writing

d. A variety of media and techniques

e. Creating and performing

2. Read critically with understanding

3. Analyze and solve problems effectively by

a. Identifying, clarifying and describing issues/problems

b. Locating, organizing and processing information from various sources

c. Utilizing thinking skills and reasoning strategies

d. Creating, testing and justifying solutions and conclusions

4. Make interdisciplinary connections through

a. Observing and understanding connections within and between disciplines

b. Articulating and demonstrating these connections

5. Demonstrate knowledge and skills to promote health, safety and well-being of oneself

    and others.

 

Social and Civic Expectations

In order to help prepare our students to be contributors to our democratic society and an interdependent world, we expect them to:

1. Have respect for themselves and others

2. Be open minded and compassionate

3. Make informed decisions and accept responsibility for them

4. Be involved in school and community activities

5. Develop and cultivate knowledge of their physical, emotional and social

    well-being

6. Utilize effective problem solving strategies to resolve social and emotional

                issues

7. Be responsible citizens

 

Adopted: September 2008

 

 

 

FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS

ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES

SCHOOL ATTENDANCE

The Franklin Public Schools expect parents and students to make every reasonable effort to have their child(ren) attend school every day. The continuity of day to day instruction is a critical dynamic to the overall success of each student.

 

If a student is out of school due to illness, the parent may make arrangements through the Guidance Department to obtain work assignments for missed work. The parents will be responsible for retrieving this material at the close of the school day and will be responsible for overseeing their son’s/daughter’s completion of the assignment. If a student is to be absent for an extended* period of time due to illness, the family may be eligible to receive home tutorial services.

 

Sometimes families plan vacations that occur during regularly scheduled school time. The Franklin Public School Department does not encourage or condone such action. Instead, the schools uphold Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 76, Section 4 entitled “School Attendance.” This section of the General Laws requires parents to “cause” their children to regularly attend school. Individuals who induce student absenteeism are liable for fines up to $200.00.

 

With this in mind, we reaffirm the position that parents are responsible for their child(ren) to attend school every day that classes are in session. The practice of the School Department is not to provide advanced and/or make up work when a student is absent from school due to vacation/travel. Students who are absent at the time when state or national standardized tests are administered will be allowed to make up missed tests to the extent that scheduled make up time is available.

 

* 14 or more consecutive days

Date adopted: April 26, 1999

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCHOOL COMMITTEE

Jeffrey N. Roy, Chairperson

Paula Mullen, Vice Chairperson

Ed Cafasso

Cindy Douglas

Bill Glynn

Susan Rohrbach

Roberta Trahan

CENTRAL ADMINISTRATION

Ms. Maureen Sabolinski, Superintendent of Schools                              508-553-4819

Ms. Sally Winslow, Assistant Superintendent of Schools                                    508-553-4820

Ms. Joyce Edwards, Director of Instruction                                                       508-553-4821

Ms. Elizabeth Fitzmaurice, Director of Special Education                                   508-553-4837

PARENT COUNCIL

Franklin High School has an active Parent Council, which meets quarterly from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. in the Cafeteria. Parents are encouraged to become involved in the Parent Council by attending as many meetings as possible. All parents are welcome.

 

This is a time to have any questions answered, to provide input, and to help make a positive impact on the school community. Some meetings are of an organizational nature, others may focus on a particular topic or issue of interest. We do not discuss individual student problems at these meetings. Members of the faculty are welcome to attend Parent Council meetings if they wish to do so.

 

Please become involved in the Franklin High School community. Students do like and appreciate their parents and teachers being involved in school. Help us work together to continue to improve programs for our students.

GUIDANCE DEPARTMENT

Guidance services are provided for each student in order to communicate the opportunities available for intellectual as well as personal growth. Guidance counselors will assist students to develop a meaningful high school program, to explore interests and abilities, and to develop educational and career plans. Students are encouraged to utilize the services provided by their counselor.

 

Services by the Guidance Department are available in the following areas:

 

Information: Group orientations, conferences, reference material about careers, colleges, and job training opportunities.

Placement: Counselors assist students to make the transition from Middle School to High School, from High School to higher education, and from high school to career.

Evaluation: Counselors provide thorough review of each student’s areas of strength and weakness as shown by test results, academic activities record, and teacher observations.

Personal/Social: Each student has needs outside of the academic and occupational categories that require attention. In the counseling process he/she has the opportunity to realize his/her worth, his/her dignity as a human being and respectability as a unique individual.

ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION (ALP)

The Alternative Learning Program (ALP) for Franklin High School is designed to provide an educational setting for students who have met with difficulty in the regular course of study. The goal of ALP is to help Franklin students achieve a high school diploma and/or reintegration of students into the regular course of study. The emphasis of the alternative class is to provide the necessary support for students to handle a full or split schedule of classes in regular education. ALP is located at Franklin High School. ALP Team Chair: David Brauninger.

PROGRAM OF STUDY

Franklin High School is a comprehensive high school. To meet the variety of student needs and abilities, courses are offered according to four criteria: content, classroom activities, instructional pace, and assignments outside the classroom. Many courses are sequenced and may have prerequisites. Within these guidelines, courses are open to all students. Schedules are refined to accommodate student needs as much as possible. Curricular offerings are reviewed annually. A complete description of courses may be found in the FHS Program of Studies Booklet and on the Franklin High School website.

 

II. ATTENDANCE POLICY AND PROCEDURE INFORMATION

SCHOOL AND CLASS ATTENDANCE

Attending class regularly, doing assigned work, and class participation are directly related to success in school. There is no way to duplicate the classroom experience after a student has been absent. The school does not condone students missing school unnecessarily. If a student is to succeed in high school, regular attendance is important. The basic responsibility for the regular attendance of the student lies with the student and parent, [NOTE - All references to ‘parent’ mean parent(s) or guardian(s)]. The school will make every reasonable effort to inform parents of excessive absences from school or from classes.

 

Absences for any reason other than illness must be pre-arranged. School officials will not grant permission for a student to leave the school for any reason during the school day until a parent has been informed. Absences and tardies are part of a student’s permanent record.

 

ABSENCE CALL-IN PROCEDURE

Please call (508) 541-2100 (extensions listed below)

A House (10th and 12th grade)           Ms. Beck                    ext. 2411

B House (9th and 11th grade)             Ms. Fausnacht           ext. 3021

 

Provide the following information when calling school personnel when your child is absent from school:

• Student’s name and grade

• Date(s) of absences

• Reason for the absence

 

 

Do NOT leave the following information on the absence line:

• Confidential medical information-please speak to the nurse directly

• Requests for homework

• Messages for classroom teacher or for Solutions Personnel

When Should You Call the School Nurse About a Child with an Illness?

We encourage parents/guardians to call any time they have concerns about symptoms or an illness and specifically for the following reasons:

• A new medical diagnosis, or a change in your child’s health status i.e. the diagnosis of an allergy

• A newly prescribed medication

• Any change(s) in a current medication

• A serious injury such as an illness, or hospitalization

• A fracture, sprain, stitches, cast or need for crutches/wheelchair

• A contagious disease such as chicken pox, flu, strep throat, whooping cough (pertusis), salmonella, measles etc.

• If your child is absent for an extended period of time with atypical symptoms for a prolonged period of time do not hesitate to call the nurse to share information

• If there are any recent changes in your family that may affect your child; such as, a birth, recent loss, or sudden illness.

 

ABSENT FROM SCHOOL POLICY: Documented / Undocumented Absence

Students must present a note signed by a parent or guardian to the A house or B House Office on their return to school. The note must indicate the date(s) and reason(s) for the absence.

 

Students will not be required to present an absence note if phone verification of the absence has taken place ON THE DAY OF THAT ABSENCE. Any student who is absent and does not comply with the above stated procedure will be considered TRUANT/CUTTING CLASS and subject to disciplinary action.

 

AN ABSENCE NOTE OR PHONE CALL FROM A PARENT DOES NOT DOCUMENT A STUDENT’S ABSENCE. THE NOTE OR PHONE CALL IS A RECORD THAT THE PARENT/ GUARDIAN WAS AWARE OF THE ABSENCE AND WHY THE STUDENT WAS NOT IN SCHOOL. In these instances, there is no school-based consequence until the student exceeds the limit for undocumented absences. (See below).

 

Documented Absence:

Students who wish to have an absence documented must present the required documentation when they return to school but no later than 7 school days following their absence.

 

Documented daily absences for the purpose of this policy are:

1. Family bereavement (parent note required)

2. Religious holiday (parent note required)

3. Absences due to illness (or a doctor’s appointment) with written verification from a doctor.

4. School-approved field trips (including a limited number of athletic events to be designated by

    the administration) the appropriate form signed by the parent granting permission and teacher

    approval.

5. Representation of Franklin High School in a school-related activity.

6. Suspension for violation of the school disciplinary code if the regulations of the suspension

    policy are followed.

7. Court appointment with official court time and date verification.

8. Nurse, guidance, or administrative appointment reported to house office by said staff.

9. For Grade 12 and 11 students ONLY: College interview/visit documented on college

    letterhead.

 

Examples of UNDOCUMENTED ABSENCES (not a complete list):

1. Truancy

2. Tardy to school/class (20 minutes late)

3. Class cutting

4. Illness absence without a doctor’s documentation

5. Family vacations, trips, obligations, etc.

6. Unnecessary absences from class as determined by an administrator.

7. Any form of “Skip Day” (see below)

 

Special Note: Any student who is twenty minutes late for class or who is dismissed twenty minutes before the end of the class will be considered to have an undocumented absence unless the tardiness/dismissal falls in the category of documented absence.

 

COLLEGE VISITS

Juniors and Seniors will be allowed six (6) school days over the two-year period for visiting colleges

A verbal or written request from the parent must be approved by the Assistant Principal BEFORE visiting the institution of higher learning. Proper documentation (signed form or letter from the admissions office on school letterhead) must be submitted to the Assistant Principal upon return to school. For seniors, college visits after May 1 require special approval from the Assistant Principal. Underclassmen who wish to visit colleges must make special arrangements with the appropriate Assistant Principal to begin the documentation process.

SKIP DAYS

“Skip Days” are different than undocumented absences in that skip days are generally not isolated to an individual student, but instead involve a group of students.  The administration reviews attendance on a daily basis and reserves the right to determine if a skip day has occurred.  Reasons the administration may determine a skip day occurred include, but are not limited to: unusually high absenteeism or tardiness within a specific group of students or information provided to the school that a group of students has abused the attendance policy.

 

“Skip days” are not a tolerated practice at Franklin High School. Students are expected to be in school on all school days except for medical, bereavement, court, or other unusual approved reasons. Parents are asked to be particularly vigilant regarding school attendance if suspicion of a “skip day” arises. The school reserves the right to review all excuses and documentation on “skip days.” The Principal and his designee(s) reserve the right to administer academic, social, and disciplinary penalties after the case has been reviewed.

ATTENDANCE & LOSS OF CREDIT

The Franklin Public Schools expect parents and students to make every reasonable effort to have their child(ren) attend school every day. Attending class regularly, doing assigned work, and class participation are directly related to success in school. The basic responsibility for the regular attendance of the student lies with the student and parent, [NOTE - All references to ‘parent’ mean parent(s) or guardian(s)]. The schools uphold Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 76, Section 4 entitled “School Attendance.” This section of the General Laws requires parents to “cause” their children to regularly attend school. (The complete Franklin Public Schools’ attendance policy is on page 7).

UNDOCUMENTED ABSENCE LIMITS (per term)

The Franklin High School administration enforces its attendance policy, as required by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. However, knowing that student illness and extenuating circumstances arise, Franklin High School affords students a number of undocumented absences per term.

 

Classes that meet:

5 days during a 7-day cycle will have an absence limit of 5 days (4 days for seniors in last quarter)

2 days during a 7-day cycle will have an absence limit of 3 days (2 days for seniors in last quarter)

1 day during a 7-day cycle will have an absence limit of 2 days (1 day for seniors in last quarter)

 

Students who exceed the absence limit in a class will receive a letter grade for the term but will not be awarded credit for the particular class. Students and parents are encouraged to check attendance records regularly to ensure that students do not exceed the undocumented absence limit. Students and parents will have electronic access to attendance records via Aspen. 

 

As a courtesy, if a student is approaching the absent limit in a term, the assistant principal will notify parents in writing either by mail or electronically.  If a family does not have Internet access, they are encouraged to contact the school to arrange for paper copies of records to be provided. After absence notification is issued, it is the responsibility of the parent and student to monitor absenteeism and the absence limit. Parents and students should be aware that tardies and dismissals without documentation will count as undocumented absences for missed classes.

LOSS OF CREDIT

All undocumented absences will count towards the undocumented absence limit (per term). When a student has exceeded the undocumented absence limit during any quarter, the Assistant Principal will send written notice to the parents as notification of loss of credit and an opportunity to appeal for that course for the quarter. At this time the parent will also be informed of the appeal process noted below.

 

LOSS OF CREDIT APPEAL PROCESS

1.      Once the student exceeds the absent limit in a particular class, the student/parent will receive a Notice of Opportunity to Appeal letter and will have 5 days from the receipt of the letter to start the appeal process. Failure to do so within the five-day limit will deem the matter closed.

2.      All appeals must be made in writing, via email, fax or paper.

3.      Students and/or parents may appeal an undocumented absence to the Assistant Principal. After hearing the appeal and reviewing attendance records, the Assistant Principal will make a decision regarding the undocumented absence and loss of credit.

4.      Students and/or parents may appeal the decision of the Assistant Principal to the Principal. Parents will have 5 days from the receipt of the letter to start the appeal process. Failure to do so within the five-day limit will deem the matter closed.

5.      After hearing the appeal and reviewing attendance records, the Principal may extend the absence limit if he or she is satisfied that an unusual circumstance existed with an absence(s), tardy(s), or dismissal(s).

6.      If the appeal is denied, the Principal will send an official Loss of Credit Notification to those students who exceeded the absence limit without documentation and/or approved justification.

7.      The Loss of Credit letter will include information about Credit Recovery.

CREDIT RECOVERY

When a student exceeds an absence limit in a class and loses credit for a term, he or she will be directed to make an appointment to see his or her guidance counselor. The guidance counselor will discuss the three options to recover the term credit. Students will declare their intentions on a Credit Recovery Form and submit the form to their guidance counselor. The following Credit Recovery Options will be offered to students:

1.      PLATO (during the school year): Complete PLATO modules (on-line, web-based instructional program) that align with the curriculum of class. Students may complete this on-line work during the school year and must achieve a score of 75 or better to receive credit for his or her work.

2.      PLATO (during the summer): Complete PLATO modules (on-line, web-based instructional program) that align with the curriculum of class. Students may complete this on-line work during summer school and must achieve a score of 75 or better to receive credit for his or her work.

3.      Retake the course or take an equivalent course: Complete the course again next school year or, if applicable, take an equivalent course.

 

If a student fails a course and exceeds the absence limit in the course, PLATO will not be an option. The student will need to retake the entire course or, if applicable, attend Summer School.

CLASS CUTS

Classroom attendance is extremely important. There are very serious consequences for students who cut classes.

1. Any student cutting an assigned class will receive a “0” for any class work/tests missed and

    will be assigned an Extended Detention.

2. Chronic class cuts will result in assignment to Extended Detention, Saturday Detention,

    Academic Suspension, Social Suspension, and/or Out-of-School Suspension.

3. Students who do not maintain appropriate class attendance may be restricted access to or excluded from extra-curricular activities by the Principal or his designee(s) in addition to other school-based discipline.

4. If a student is removed from a classroom for inappropriate behavior, it is the student’s

    responsibility to contact the teacher within 24 hours to make up the missed work.

TARDY TO SCHOOL

School begins promptly at 7:35 a.m. There is a 7:30 warning bell. Any student arriving after 7:35 a.m. is considered tardy and must report to the House Office for a tardy slip. Students will not be allowed into first period class without an admit slip/pass from the House Office.

 

1. All tardies will be undocumented with the exception of the following:

a. Medical appointments with a doctor’s note designating time of appointment.

   (All such appointments should be scheduled outside of school hours whenever

    possible)

b. Family funeral

c. On highly unusual occasions deemed necessary by the Assistant Principal

    Note: Car or transportation problems and over-sleeping are not valid reasons for  

    excusing tardiness to school.

d. Drivers License/ permit tests with documentation from the registry

 

2. Students will receive an office detention for each tardy.  One exception will be made each

quarter for students who are tardy with parent notification to school.

 

3. If a student is tardy to any class for more than 20 minutes, they will be considered absent from

    that class and the absence will be recorded as undocumented.

 

Chronic tardiness to school will result in the assignment of an Extended Detention or Saturday detention. When a student exceeds five (5) undocumented tardies in a term, he or she will receive an Extended Detention.

 

IMPORTANT NOTE: Students who drive to school and repeatedly violate the tardy policy will not be allowed to drive to school. Forfeiture of this privilege will be for a minimum of one (1) week.

TARDINESS TO CLASS

It is the student’s responsibility to arrive at each class on time. Tardiness to class will not be tolerated. If a student is meeting with a teacher after class and believes he or she will not make it to his or her next class on time, the student is to obtain a pass from the teacher.

1.      Students who are tardy to class may receive a teacher detention.

2.      Once a student serves two (2) teacher detentions for tardiness to class, any additional tardiness will be referred to an Assistant Principal.

3.      If a teacher deems a student’s tardiness to class to be excessive (with regard to time), the student will be referred to an Assistant Principal.

4.      Chronic tardiness to class may result in an Extended Detention, Saturday Detention and/or Pass Restriction.

 

This procedure applies to all periods except for first period, where students arriving late to class are considered tardy to school and must report to the House Office for a tardy slip. Students will not be allowed into first period class without an admit slip/pass from the House Office.

TRUANCY

1st Offense                               Zero in all courses on day of truancy.

Parental conference required.

Assignment of two (2) Extended Detentions or Saturday Detention

School Resource Officer will be contacted

 

2nd and Subsequent                 Zero in all courses on day truant.

Offenses:                                  Parental conference required.

Assignment of two (2) Extended Detentions,

Saturday Detention, or Out-of-School Suspension.

School Resource Officer will be contacted

DISMISSALS FROM SCHOOL

Dismissal from school may be granted for medical reasons or home emergencies at the discretion of the School Administration. Medical appointments should be scheduled outside school hours whenever possible.

 

Dismissals will be allowed for the following reasons:

            1. Medical appointments

            2. Court or social service appointment

            3. Family emergency

            4. Family bereavement

            5. Family vacation or family obligation (undocumented)

            6. Representation of Franklin High School in a school-related activity.

            7. Illness

            8. Unusual circumstance deemed appropriate by the Assistant Principal

 

Upon returning to school, students must present documentation for the dismissal to the A or B House Office.  Parents and students should be aware that dismissals without documentation will count as undocumented absences for missed classes. Furthermore, per the attendance policy, dismissals due to family vacations, family obligations or illness (without a doctor’s visit) will count as undocumented absences for missed classes.

 

To obtain a dismissal slip, a student must bring a note signed by his/her parent or guardian requesting permission to leave school stating time, date, and reason for dismissal. Dismissal notes must also include the name and location of the doctor, and a telephone number where a parent may be reached during the school day. Students dismissed for medical reasons must be dismissed through the school nurse.  Students dismissed for non-medical reasons may be dismissed through an assistant principal.

 

DISMISSAL NOTES MUST BE CONFIRMED THROUGH CONTACT WITH A PARENT PRIOR TO THE STUDENT LEAVING SCHOOL. PARENTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO CALL OR EMAIL A HOUSE or B HOUSE OFFICE IN THE MORNING ON THE DAY THEIR CHILD IS TO BE DISMISSED TO CONFIRM THE NOTE. IF THIS CONTACT IS NOT MADE, THE SCHOOL MUST CONTACT THE PARENT BY PHONE PRIOR TO ALLOWING THE STUDENT TO LEAVE.

 

Dismissal notes should be brought to A-house or B-House office before FIRST period. After administrative approval, the student will be issued a dismissal pass which will in turn be shown to the teacher at the time of dismissal, and the student will bring the pass to the Main Office before leaving the building. Students will NOT be called down from class.

 

If a student has forgotten his/her dismissal note or requires an unexpected dismissal, that student will not be dismissed unless a parent or guardian comes to the Main Office to sign a dismissal note. For safety reasons relatives, neighbors, or friends cannot be considered substitutes for a parent or guardian. THE SCHOOL CANNOT DISMISS A STUDENT WITHOUT WRITTEN CONFIRMATION BY NOTE, FAX OR EMAIL FROM A PARENT, GUARDIAN OR EMERGENCY CONTACT.

 

All absence, tardy and dismissal notes must be signed by a parent or legal guardian. Notes from relatives, neighbors, or friends cannot and will not be accepted. The only accepted signature on any note will be that of a parent or guardian.

SPECIAL ATTENDANCE ISSUES

Student Not Living with Parent or Guardian

A student who is not living with a parent or guardian is expected to follow all the rules and regulation of the school in the same manner as all other students. Notes (to excuse absences, etc.) should be written by the adult member of the household in which the student lives. If the student lives in a situation where no adult authority is present, arrangements regarding attendance and discipline procedures must be set up by means of a meeting of the student and the Assistant Principal during the week when the independent living situation begins.

LAST DAY OF SCHOOL

Students are expected to fulfill final obligations including return of all books, locks and other school materials. The last day of school in June is also the final exam make-up day.

FORGED DOCUMENT POLICY

The only accepted signature on any absence, tardy or dismissal note will be that of a parent or guardian. A student who forges or alters a parental note or school document (corridor pass, or note, etc.) will receive the following consequences:

1. Assignment of an Extended Detention

2. Notification of parent

3. Verification of all future notes

4. Any further action deemed appropriate by an administrator

 

 

III. ACADEMIC POLICIES AND PROCEDURES INFORMATION

 

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

(SUBJECT TO CHANGE, DEPENDENT UPON FUNDING AND SCHEDULE DEVELOPMENT)

 

 

Graduation requirements for the Class of:

                                   Required Subjects and Credits:

2015

2014

2013

2012

English (Grade 9, Grade 10, Grade 11, Grade 12 (plus elective)

20

21

22

22

Math (not to include Computer programming)

15

16

17

17

Science (Biology, 2 full years additional sciences)

15

16

17

17

Social Studies (World History, 2 years United States History)

15

16

17

17

2 Year Sequence (For. Language, Business, Arts, Consumer Science)

10

10

10

10

*Wellness (Grade 9, Grade 10)

4

2

-

-

**Physical Education (only for the class of 2012)

-

-

-

2.5

***Health

-

2.5

2.5

2.5

 

 

 

 

 

Additional Credits

27.5

27.5

27.5

27.5

 

 

 

 

 

Total Required for Graduation

106.5

111

113

115.5

 

 

 

 

 

* Wellness includes Health & Physical Education (2 credits per year)

 

 

 

 

** Physical Education is required of all grades, but may be completed through an outside pathway for grades 10-12

*** Beginning Fall 2011, Health Education is incorporated into the Wellness Program

 

 

 

 

 

Notes:

 

1. All graduation credits must be earned in grades 9-12.

 

2. Only courses that are completed will earn credit.  Partial credit will not be given for courses that are not completed.

 

3. Determination and acceptance of transfer credits is at the discretion of the principal. Transfer credits must have been earned at accredited schools.

 

4. Credit is earned only for courses completed while in attendance at Franklin High School.  The Principal or designee will determine if credit will be awarded to students who are tutored outside of the regular school day.

COURSE CREDIT

Courses at Franklin High School earn credits based upon the number of days a course meets per cycle of the course of a full year.  For example, courses that meet 5 times per cycle for a full year earn 5 credits, while courses that meet five times per cycle for one semester earn 2.5 credits.  Credit for all courses is weighted based upon these equivalents.

 

CREDIT REQUIREMENTS

 

Credits Required for promotion to Grade:

 

 

 

 

Grade

Credits Taken

Cumulative Credits

Required for Promotion

9

32

32

25

10

32

64

50.5

11

30-35

94-99

80.5

12

30-35

124-134

see table above

 

*Due to health and physical education requirements, not all students are required to carry the maximum credit load per year. As such, a range of credit requirements is published as a general reference.


GRADE POINT AVERAGE (GPA) CALCULATION

Grade Point Average (GPA) is tabulated according to utilization of a 5 point weighting system. This system is consistent with the requirements of colleges and universities for the method of reporting student GPA for the application process and is in compliance with the Massachusetts Board of Regents guidelines for computing weighted grade point average. Courses at Franklin High School are grouped in four levels and will be given differing weights in the computation of grade point average according to the chart below. 

Table 1.

CURRENT GPA TABLE (EFFECTIVE 09-10)

 

AP

H

CP

S

A+

5.00

4.50

4.00

3.50

A

5.00

4.50

4.00

3.50

A-

4.67

4.17

3.67

3.17

B+

4.33

3.83

3.33

2.83

B

4.00

3.50

3.00

2.50

B-

3.67

3.17

2.67

2.17

C+

3.33

2.83

2.33

1.83

C

3.00

2.50

2.00

1.50

C-

2.67

2.17

1.67

1.17

D+

2.33

1.83

1.33

0.83

D

2.00

1.50

1.00

0.50

D-

1.67

1.17

0.67

0.17

F

0.00

0.00

0.00

0.00

 

 

Weighted Grade Point Average (GPA) is determined by the weighting of marks received in each subject according to the degree of difficulty of the subject. Academic subjects are designated as Advanced Placement (AP), Honors (H), College Preparatory (CP), and Standard (S). Rank in class is based on courses in Grades 9-12 only. Rank in class is calculated using the following formula: GPA = course credits X weighted grade = weighted score in each course.  The sum of the weighted scores for all courses is then divided by the total number of credits earned during the student’s career.

 

NOTE

1. All scheduled classes with a curriculum will be applied to GPA.

2. Two semester courses will be combined to equal one year-long class.

3. Independent study will not be applied to class rank.

4. Participation in the Self-Directed Learning Program (SDLP) does not earn credits or grades.

REPORTING OF STUDENT GRADE DISTRIBUTION:

1. A weighted GPA will be computed and will include all courses with a prepared curriculum.

2. A student distribution by decile will be developed, based on six semesters of grades. It will be distributed with the student’s transcript and school profile.

3. Valedictorian and Salutatorian determination will be based on Weighted GPA.

TRANSFER STUDENTS/RANK IN CLASS

1. Only courses designated as honors or the equivalent thereof at the student’s former school will be classified as honors courses for class rank at Franklin High School. The high school administration will interpret the appropriateness of a course designation.

2. To receive credit toward class rank at Franklin High School equaling that of the student’s former school, the course at the student’s former school must have equivalent hours and designation.

3. Only courses credited in the curricula at Franklin High School will be considered in class rank.

4. Students must complete two full years at Franklin High School to be considered in class rank.

5. In fairness to transfer students completing less than two years at Franklin High School, an approximation of class rank will be sent to colleges, and a letter from the student’s guidance counselor will accompany the transcript for explanation.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENT

Franklin High School recognizes that regular physical activity is important for all students. As such and consistent with Massachusetts General Laws, the school requires four years of physical education for all students in grades 9-12.

 

Grade 9 students will meet this requirement through their scheduled wellness course.

 

Students in Grades 10-12 may elect from 3 Pathways by which to meet the physical education requirement.

 

1. Through participation in the school physical education classes once per cycle for two semesters per year.

 

2. Through participation on one of the school‘s athletic teams (SUBJECT TO ELIGIBILITY POLICIES AND COMPLETION OF THE SEASON).

 

3. Through participation in an outside of school organized physical activity or activities totaling more than 30 hours in a school year, including those listed or other activities that may be proposed by students, that receive prior administrative approval. In order to meet the requirements for approval, the proposed program must have a strong instructional component.

 

Students will select a pathway as part of the course selection process. Students who select Pathway 2 or 3 must complete and return the Pathways selection form along with a detailed description of the activity on the first day of school in order to gain final approval. Any student who fails to return the completed form will be enrolled in Pathway 1. Students electing Pathway 1 will be scheduled into a physical education class once per cycle during their directed study. If a student elects to participate in the school‘s physical education pathway, the student must have elected at least one directed study.

 

Students that elect Pathway 3 must receive prior administrative approval. In order to meet the requirements for approval, the proposed program must have a strong instructional component.

HEALTH EDUCATION REQUIREMENT

Franklin High School requires students to pass health or wellness education courses in grades 9 and 10 as a requirement for graduation.   

HEALTH CURRICULUM EXEMPTION

The Franklin Public Schools, in compliance with federal and state regulations, developed a comprehensive health education program, which is implemented in our secondary schools. This program, developed in consultation with the Community/Health Education Advisory Council, strives to promote the health and wellness of the student population and to enable them to make informed decisions during their adolescent years.

 

As part of this comprehensive health program topics involving human sexuality are discussed and studied. Topics such as dating relationships and communication skills, abstinence, birth control, abortion, homosexuality and tolerance, prevention of HIV/ AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases are all explored as part of the comprehensive high school health curriculum.

 

Under Massachusetts State Law and School Committee Policy, parents/guardians may exempt their child from any portion of the curriculum that involves human sexuality. To receive an exemption please forward a written request to the Franklin High School Principal prior to October 1 of the school year. Students exempted for this portion of the curriculum will not be penalized and will be provided with an alternative assignment.

 

If you would like to review curriculum materials or learn more about the curriculum, please contact the Director of Health and Physical Education, Ms. Kristin Cerce.  Ms. Cerce can be reached at 508-541-2100, extension 3150.

GRADING

I. Grades

Grades are the fundamental way we communicate with students and parents about students’ progress in reaching their educational goals. It is important as a school community that we have a common understanding about our grading system.

 

Grades are a measure of the level of mastery that a student has achieved in a subject. Within the policies and guidelines of the school system and the school, teachers are charged with the responsibility of grading students. Grades must be fair and accurate and based upon a school-wide set of criteria.

 

At Franklin High School, grades may include but are not limited to the following data:

a. Tests and quizzes

b. Classroom participation

c. Homework

d. Special projects and reports

e. Portfolios, journals, exhibitions

f. Special requirements in departments such as physical education, art, and music.

 

Teachers decide what proportion of the grade each component of the marking system will have. Teachers communicate their marking system to students and thus to the parents at the beginning of the course so that there will be no misunderstanding about the expectations of the course. Grades measure mastery of subject matter in a course and not just a good faith attempt to achieve that mastery. Students must pass at least two quarters in order to be eligible for summer school. Parents may appeal these criteria in writing to the principal. Appeals will be granted after input from the classroom teacher is sought.

II. Grade Reporting

At the end of each term, an official report card is issued. A grade for each course, attendance, cumulative credits, and faculty comments are provided on each report card. The cumulative grade is the current overall grade average.

III. Report Cards

Report cards are issued four times during the school year. They are the official record of students’ achievement and attendance. The symbols used on the card are as follows:

A         Excellent

B          Very Good

C         Fair

D         Poor

F          Failing

I           Incomplete

W        Withdrawn- No Credit

N         Medical excuse from Physical Education - No Credit

 


Grading System:

A+       97 – 100                                  C+       77 - 79

A         93 - 96                                     C         73 - 76

A-        90 - 92                                     C-        70 - 72

B+       87 - 89                                     D+       67 - 69

B          83 – 86                                    D         63 - 66

B-        80 - 82                                     D-        60 – 62

 

Attendance: The number of absences each term in each class appears on the report card in the column marked QTRAB. This includes all excused and unexcused absences. Separate entries appear for homeroom attendance, tardiness and dismissals. Consistent attendance is essential for success in all academic endeavors.

IV. Incomplete Grade policy

All students will be required to make up incomplete report grades within a two-week interval of the preceding marking period. Work not made up within this time will be recorded as 0 and the grade computed. The only exception to this policy is in the case of a student with extenuating reasons for absences. These cases should be brought to the attention of guidance and approved by the principal or assistant principal.

PROTOCOLS FOR HOME-SCHOOL COMMUNICATION

It is a long standing goal of the Franklin High School Improvement Council to foster strong school/parent communication. This practice is in keeping with education research that shows that it promotes and supports good education. This may be done in written form by a note or letter, telephone call, or e-mail. A response or return contact can be expected.

 

Notes to teachers may be left in the main office, sent with a student, or mailed to the school, addressed to the teacher. School telephones do not ring through to classrooms but voicemail may be left and retrieved by the faculty member. E-mail addresses are available to parents via the school website at http://franklinhigh.vt-s.net/Pages/FranklinHS_WebDocs/Direct or printed school correspondence.

 

Protocols for Home-School Communication

Questions and concerns arise within any organization and it is important to know who to contact in order to receive the most accurate and reliable information.  In the sprit of open communication, we ask the following protocols to be followed unless special circumstances dictate otherwise:

 

  1. Students are asked to communicate directly with teachers when they have questions or concerns.

 

  1. In the event that a student cannot communicate with a teacher regarding a question or a student is not satisfied with a response form a teacher, parents are advised to speak with their child’s teacher directly.

 

  1.  If a question or concern has not been answered satisfactorily by a teacher, students or parents are advised to speak with the Department Head or Director for the teacher’s curriculum area.

 

  1. In situations involving discipline, parents and students are advised to speak with the Assistant Principal for Student Services for their grade if a Director or Department Head has not been able to answer a question or resolve an issue.

 

  1. In situations involving academics, parents and students are advised to speak with the Assistant Principal for Academics if a Director or Department Head has not been able to answer a question or resolve an issue.

 

  1. Parents are advised to contact the Principal if a situation brought to the attention of an assistant principal has not been resolved.

 

  1. Parents are advised to contact the Superintendent of Schools if a situation brought to the attention of the principal has not been resolved.

ONLINE ACCESS TO STUDENT GRADES

Franklin High School uses Aspen X2, a web-based program that allows students and parents’ access to grades via the internet.  Students and parents will be provided an access code with which they will be able to view student grades in all courses.

 

The school will continue to distribute quarterly report cards.  However, as students parents have unlimited access to grades, the school does not distribute progress reports on a quarterly basis.

 

It is important for students and parents to understand that unlimited access to grades does not equate with instant access to grades.  With this in mind, the school has developed the following guidelines to assist families and teachers in understanding the reasonable use of Aspen X2.

 

  1. Teachers need time to grade student work.  Quality feedback to students about their work is directly linked to improved student performance.  As such, Franklin High School wants teachers to have enough time to provide meaningful feedback to students.  Below are some rough guidelines regarding the grading of student work:
    1. Homework:  2-3 days depending on the assignment
    2. Quizzes: about 1 week
    3. Tests and Short essays: 1-2 weeks
    4. Moderate Essays, Labs: 2-3 weeks
    5. Extended Essays or Research Papers: 3 weeks or more.
  2. Grades will be updated on a weekly basis, but the grades will only include work that has been graded.  We ask families to refer to the guidelines above for detained information.
  3. If a question or concern about a grade arises, students should make the first contact with teachers regarding the issue.  This is consistent with the school’s Protocols for Home-School Communication.  If the issue remains unresolved, parents are encouraged to contact a teacher directly.

 

** If a family is unable to access the internet, they are encouraged to contact their Guidance Counselor in order to arrange for paper copies of progress reports to be sent home quarterly.

ACADEMIC HONESTY POLICY

As an academic community, Franklin High School will not tolerate academic dishonesty. Any activity of this nature is in opposition to the goals of the school as a place of learning and is contrary to the values of the school and the community. Dishonesty is not a private matter between teacher and student, but is a concern to the entire school community.

 

Academic dishonesty, external to Franklin High School, but implicitly related to the student’s status as a Franklin High School Student, such as but not limited to College Board Examinations and college recommendations, will be considered particularly serious infractions of the academic honesty policy. It not only harms the individual student but it directly harms the reputation of Franklin High School and possibly the future prospects of other Franklin High School students.

 

Examples of academic dishonesty include, but are not limited to the following:

1. Plagiarism: The act of taking ideas, writings, etc. from another and passing them off as one’s

    own.

2. Possession, distribution, and/or use of cheat sheets, unauthorized notes and/or information.

3. Giving or receiving information during quizzes, tests, or examinations, including the use of

     any electronic devices that transmit information, such as electronic language translators, cell

     phones, electronic devices, and graphic calculators.

4. Unauthorized collaboration on assignments

5. Unauthorized use, receipt, or distribution of quiz, test, or examination items or assessment  

    questions.

6. Unauthorized use of materials intended for teachers’ use.

7. Unauthorized use of computers and/or copying or misuse of computer files.

8. Use of on-line information without giving credit or using proper citation.

9. Unauthorized use, copying, and/or distribution of another student’s work (homework,    

    classwork, test or quiz answers, computer files, projects, etc.)

10. Providing another student with one’s work (homework, test answers, essay, project, etc.)

11. False information included in college, scholarship, or financial aid application.

12. Cheating on college boards, achievements, or other standardized tests.

 

Consequences

Part I: The first violation of this policy by a student will result in the following consequences:

1. Teachers must notify, with a disciplinary referral, the appropriate assistant principal as soon as

     possible.

2. The administrator will then inform the teacher as to what further action will take place. A

     parent will be notified by the teacher. Written confirmation of this notification will be sent to     

     parent by the assistant principal.

3. Students will receive zero for the academic work in question.

4. The student’s activities will be closely monitored by all teachers and administrators and a

    second incident of academic dishonesty of any nature will result in the consequences

    described in Part II.

5. Other appropriate action, including but not limited to disciplinary measures, may be taken

     according to the severity of the case.

 

Part II: The second violation of this policy by a student will result in the following consequences.

1. Parents will be notified and a parent conference will be arranged.

2. The student will receive an “F” in the course for the year, and not earn credit for the school

    year in the course in which the second offense occurs.

3. Students will be removed from all (and will not qualify for future positions) academic or

    honor positions which represent the school (including positions of honor at graduation).

    Examples: Honor Society, Student Council, class office, representatives for academic

    competition such as Math Team; any graduation academic awards, places of honor at

    graduation ceremony.

4. The student will have placed in the permanent record file a letter citing the violation.

5. Other appropriate action, including but not limited to disciplinary measures, may be taken

    according to the severity of the case.

 

Part III: A Non-Course-Related Violation of this policy will result in the following consequences:

1. Parents will be notified. Written confirmation of this violation will be sent to the parent by the

    assistant principal.

2. The appropriate parties (such as College Board or College) will be notified.

3. Students will be removed from (and will not qualify for future positions) all academic or

    honor positions which represent the school (including positions of honor at graduation).

    Examples: Honor Society, Student Council, class office, representatives for academic

    competition such as Math Team; any graduation academic awards, places of honor at

    graduation ceremony.

4. A letter citing the violation will be placed in the permanent record file.

5. Letters of recommendation by faculty will be excluded from the student’s college application.

6. Other appropriate action, including but not limited to disciplinary measures, may be taken

    according to the severity of the case.

 

Note: The second offense of dishonesty does not necessarily have to be in the same category as the first offense to constitute a second offense of academic dishonesty.

 

Note: Academic dishonesty may come in many forms. However, some incidents are more serious than others. Therefore, certain violations will be treated in a more serious manner. The school administration reserves the right and has the responsibility to make that determination and act accordingly.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT PROGRAM

The Advanced Placement (AP) program, which is administered by the College Board, consists of college-level courses and exams for high school students. AP exams are scored on a range from 1 to 5. Scores of 3 or higher often qualify the student for college credit or advanced courses. Since its inception in 1955, the AP Program has been remarkably successful, and many students have earned college credit or placement in advanced courses. The AP Program at Franklin High School includes the following courses: English Literature and Composition, Spanish Language, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Science, Calculus, Statistics, U.S. History, European History, Economics, Studio Art, Music Theory, Government and Politics. Franklin students have also taken the AP Psychology exam. All students who elect an Advanced Placement course are required to take the AP exam or a teacher-developed final exam of equal rigor in May. The cost of the exam is approximately $90. Examination fees are waived for students who qualify for free and reduced lunch.

EXTRA HELP

Teachers are available for after school help Monday through Friday unless a required department/faculty meeting takes precedence. Students should make appointments in advance to avoid scheduling conflicts. Communication of scheduling conflicts between teachers and students is encouraged.

FINAL EXAMS

Final exams are given to all students at the end of the school year. Exams are prepared by members of each department and given at a prescribed time in each course. To preclude any confusion or inequities in the administration of exams, it is imperative that parents and students make appropriate plans to ensure attendance during the exam days. Make-up exams in any subject will only be given with administrative approval by the principal or his/her designee. Failure to take the final exam in any course may result in failure in that course. Only seniors who maintain an A- or a better average are exempted from final exams. (This exemption does not apply to Advanced Placement Courses.)

HOMEWORK

Homework is an essential element of a student’s educational progress at Franklin High School. Homework develops mastery of skills and material covered in class and effectively promotes independence, creativity and self-discipline in learning. Student achievement rises significantly when students conscientiously apply themselves to the careful completion of homework. Teachers regularly assign well-developed homework assignments that are directly related to work that is being done in the classroom. Parents help the educational progress of their children when they provide a suitable atmosphere for doing homework in the home, check each day to see that it is done, and provide assistance and advice as needed.

HOMEWORK HELP and NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY TUTORING

If students need help with homework, they are encouraged to attend National Honor Society tutoring and homework help. The tutoring and help sessions, which are supervised by a FHS staff member and run by National Honor Society students, will be available in room C204 (Ms. Boisvert’s room) on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, from 2:10-2:45 p.m. Students seeking help must arrive by 2:20 p.m.

HONOR ROLL

The Honor Roll at Franklin High School is published four times a year shortly after the conclusion of each of the four marking periods. Honors classifications are:

 

High Honors                                         No grade below A-

Honors                                                 No grade below B-

MAKE-UP POLICY

Unless other arrangements are made with the teacher, a student who has been absent will have one (1) day to make up work for each day absent or may, at the teacher's discretion, have extended time.  Students must contact teachers on the day after an absence to make arrangements. No make-up work is permitted for truancy or class cut. The administration retains the right to determine if a “skip day” has been organized; in such case no make up will be allowed. Parent requests for school work (due to an impending absence) should be directed to a student’s guidance counselor.

SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING PROGRAM (SDLP)

As an option for a 7th period, Grade 11 and 12 students will have the option to apply for a Self-Directed Learning Program (SDLP). Students will create and execute a plan to explore personal learning and career goals through a self-directed program of study. Students in the program will develop skills necessary for work and college, such as initiative, independence, time management, and personal responsibility while being afforded the opportunity to personalize learning and vigorously pursue individual areas of interest.

Overview:

Students apply by creating an independent learning plan. This plan may be based either on or off campus depending on the unique needs identified by the student in their plan proposal; however, the privilege of leaving campus will only be extended to students whose learning plan includes specific and legitimate reasons for doing so. Plans may include, but are not limited to:

 

  • Online courses not offered by FHS
  • Independent research proposals (not faculty guided)
  • Internships/ work study opportunities
  • Community service
  • Teaching assistantships/laboratory assistants (requires teacher approval)
  • Fulfillment of leadership responsibilities associated with school-based activities
  • School-based tutoring
  • Independent-unscheduled study time in support of identified personal academic goals
  • Other legitimate options as proposed by students

Entry:

Applications are completed by the student and jointly approved by the administration and guidance staff. Application materials and scoring rubrics will be posted to the school website.

Eligibility:

Students must be in good academic standing, generally defined as making progress toward meeting graduation requirements for “on-time” graduation. Students must also be cleared for the program through administration for demonstrated commitment to responsible conduct, and maintain appropriate attendance standards during the program. Failure to meet these standards will result in assignment into a teacher-directed study or academic support.

 

Assessment:

Students will develop and maintain a digital portfolio of evidence that documents the activities included in the SDLP. The digital portfolio may include transcripts/progress reports (for courses outside of FHS), photos, videos, writings or journal entries, logs, or other evidence that was detailed in the accepted SDLP application. In addition to the portfolio, students will complete a self-assessment each term. Evidence will be dictated by each student, be specific to the proposed project, and detailed in the application. Work will be displayed publicly via the school website (excluding student records).

 

Additionally, the SDLP Coordinator reserves the right to meet with students at any point during the SDLP in order to ensure that students are making effective progress. Students whose progress is deemed unacceptable may be put on probation or removed from the program at the discretion of the coordinator. Students placed on SDLP probation shall have two weeks from notice to demonstrate effective progress or be removed from the program and assigned into a teacher-directed study or academic support.

Recognition

Students in the SDLP do not receive grades or credit directly from Franklin High School. However, the SDLP will be listed on student transcripts and students may elect to share the outcomes of their project with colleges and universities as part of their application.

Franklin High School will submit transcripts from other education institutions on the student’s behalf if the student chooses to complete additional coursework outside of FHS as part of the SDLP.

Off-Campus Procedures

Students whose learning plans will be based off campus for any period of time must have a Waiver and Release of Liability Waiver form on file with the SDLP Coordinator that has been signed by a parent or guardian and notarized. (See the Waiver and Release of Liability Waiver on pages 32-33)

 

When a student will be leaving campus for a previously approved reason, the student will check out through the appropriate house office. Student identification cards (SIDs) will be used to check in and out of school. It is expected that students carry SIDs at all times on or off campus. While off campus, students are expected to conduct themselves as representatives of Franklin High School and act in a safe, responsible and respectful manner at all times. Students whose conduct does not meet these standards or violates any portion of the school’s code of conduct shall face disciplinary action consistent with the student handbook and additional actions up to and including removal from the SDLP.

 

The administration reserves the right to cancel off-campus participation due to inclement weather, safety risks, or other unforeseen circumstances.

 

 

FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS / NON-SCHOOL SPONSORED EXTENDED FIELD TRIP WAIVER

 

WAIVER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY

 

1.                  I/We, ____________________________, as parent(s) / guardian(s)  over hereby child _____________acknowledge my/our knowledge of and consent to the participation in a school-sponsored trip to ___________________ on      

 _________________, 20___.

 (said trip referred hereinafter as “the released activity”) by _________________, a

  student enrolled in Franklin Public Schools. 

 

2.                  For good and valuable consideration, the sufficiency of which I/We hereby acknowledge, I/We do hereby waive, release and forever discharge Franklin Public Schools, the Town of Franklin, and their respective employees, agents, board members, officials, servants, volunteers, and representatives (hereinafter collectively referred to as “the released parties”), and others for whom the released parties may have legal responsibility, from and against any and all actions, claims, demands, causes of action, responsibility and liability for injuries, losses, or damages, including but not limited to personal injury, bodily injury, and/or property damage, which I/We may have had in the past, may now have, or may have in the future as a parent/guardian of said minor child arising in any way, directly or indirectly, from said minor child’s participation in the released activity, and any travel related thereto.

 

3.                  For good and valuable consideration, the sufficiency of which I hereby acknowledge, I/We do hereby agree to indemnify and hold harmless, including the costs of defense, the released parties, and others for whom the released parties may have legal responsibility, from and against any and all actions, claims, demands, causes of action, responsibility and liability for injuries, losses, or damages, including but not limited to personal injury, bodily injury, and/or property damage, which arise in any way, directly or indirectly, from said minor child’s participation in the released activity and/or any travel related thereto.

 

4.                  I/We hereby acknowledge and agree that participation in the released activity is completely voluntary, that the minor child and I/We are free to choose to not participate in the released activity.  I understand that the minor child’s participation in the released activity, and/or any travel related thereto, may involve a risk of serious personal injury, bodily injury and/or property damage.  I/We understand and acknowledge that I/We am/are consenting to the minor child’s participation in the released activity with full knowledge of the dangers involved therewith.  I/We hereby agree, on my/our own behalf and on behalf of the minor child, to expressly assume and accept any and all risks of personal injury, bodily injury and/or property damage, with full knowledge that the released parties, and others for whom the released parties may have legal responsibility, will not be liable for any such injury or damage.

 

 

5.                  I/We hereby represent that I/We am/are the custodial parent(s) and/or guardian(s)   of _______________________ and have full legal authority to execute this Waiver and Release of Liability on behalf of the minor child, on my/our own behalf, and on behalf of my/our family as a parent and/or guardian of the minor child. 

 

6.                  I/We have been advised by the Ravel vendor of recent and applicable travel advisories on travel for American citizens issued by the United States Department of State.  We have undertaken such investigation of the effects of these travel advisories as we deem necessary.  We hereby declare that the participation of the student in the released activity/trip is voluntary and undertaken with full knowledge of the risks inherent in participation in the trip.

 

7.                  I hereby agree to provide emergency contact information, medical information and insurance information regarding my child to the Franklin Public Schools as requested by Franklin Public Schools prior to my child’s participation in the non school sponsored released activity.

 

I/We hereby acknowledge that I/We have had full opportunity to read and review this Waiver and Release of Liability and understand its contents.  I/We execute this Waiver and Release of Liability voluntarily and freely.

 

THIS IS A RELEASE OF CLAIMS AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY

READ CAREFULLY BEFORE SIGNING

 

 

Parent/Guardian: ____________________          Date: _______________________

 

Parent/Guardian: ____________________          Date: _______________________

 

 

Witness to Signature(s): _____________________________      Date:______

 

Witness Print Name:  _______________________________________________

                                               

STUDENT IDENTIFICATION CARDS

Students are expected to have their Franklin High School Student IDs with them at all times. Students will use their Student IDs in the technology center, cafeteria, A/B House and for SDLP. A student who does not have his or her Student ID will face progressive discipline, starting with a verbal warning. If a student loses his or her Student ID, the student must replace the Student ID at his or her own expense.

SUMMER SCHOOL

Franklin students may earn credit during summer school provided that:

1. In a year course, the student has passed 2 quarters.

2. In a semester course, the student has passed 1quarter.

3. The numerical average for the year must be 50 to attend summer school.

 

Parents may appeal these criteria in writing to the principal. Appeals will be granted after input from the classroom teacher is sought.

 

Students may take a course in summer school to improve their grade provided the course is taught at the same level. There are no honors courses offered in summer school. Under special circumstances, the teacher may waive the requirement and, in writing, recommend that the student earn or not earn credit that summer. Summer school credits for courses that were passed but are being repeated for a better grade do not constitute additional credit toward the diploma or toward athletic eligibility requirements.

 

A withdrawn (W) from any course during the academic year shall disqualify the student from earning credit in summer school.

TECHNOLOGY & RESEARCH CENTER

The Technology Center houses approximately 24,000 books, a collection of cassette tapes, slides, video cassettes, magazines, DVDs, CDs and daily newspapers. Access to the collection is by computers located in front of the circulation desk. Also at the same computers, patrons may access several CD ROM indexes and full text periodicals and encyclopedias. The library also provides access to the internet and several CD ROMs on stand alone computers.

 

Most books are loaned for a three-week period and may be renewed, as long as no one has reserved them. Equipment use periods differ based on each individual item. If books or equipment are not returned after the third overdue notice, sign-out privileges may be taken away until the item is returned, renewed, or paid for. Back issues of magazines may be signed out for one week. Most reference books, including encyclopedias, may be signed out overnight. However, they are due the next school day before the first class period begins. The technology center staff will be happy to answer your questions and help in finding what you need.

 

General Rules:

Students in the technology center are under the supervision of the technology staff and assistants and must follow their instructions. Students must have a signed pass, and also sign in on the Technology Center Sign-In Sheet.

 

Students who come to the Technology Center with a pass from a class, without their teacher, must report directly to the staff and sign in at the periodical desk. If students are to return to class before the end of the period, please indicate that on the pass. Otherwise, if students are to remain the entire period, the staff will sign and return the pass to the teacher’s mailbox on the following day. It is the teacher’s responsibility to determine if any disciplinary action is needed.

 

No food or drink is allowed in the Technology Center.

 

Destruction of any book, magazine, equipment or furniture will be treated in the same manner as the destruction of any other school property: Notification of parents, reimbursement for replacement or repair, and possible suspension from school.

 

Students will be charged the full cost of replacing or rebinding lost or destroyed resources.

 

Students who use the internet are expected to have signed the internet Acceptable Use Policy and abide by it.

 

 

 

IV. HEALTH REQUIREMENTS, POLICIES

HEALTH SERVICES

Franklin school nurses are integral members of the education team who assist children and youth to develop to their full potential. A comprehensive school health program includes delivery of health services and health education which directly contributes to the student’s education as well as the health of the family and community.

 

A school nurse is available for parents and students on a daily basis. Students are always welcome to come to the health office for a thorough assessment and evaluation of their medical needs. Excluding emergency situations, students are required, however, to have a pass from their teacher. Students may arrange for an appointment with the nurse at a mutually convenient time to discuss any health concerns. In the event of serious injury or illness at school, the school nurse will provide immediate first aid. If follow-up care is needed, or if the student cannot remain at school, the parents, or designated emergency contact, is notified.

ADMINISTERING MEDICINES TO STUDENTS

The policy of the Franklin Public Schools as mandated by 71 M.G.L. 54B and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health 105 CMR, 210.001, et seq.  "Regulations Governing the Administration of Prescription Medications in Public and Private Schools" is that prescription medication is not to be dispensed without a written order from a licensed physician as described in 105 CMR 210.002 and written parent/guardians consent.  Over the counter medication and medicinal substitutes such as nutritional supplements will not be dispensed without a physicians order or parental consent, as deemed necessary by the school nurse.  Required orders and consents must be renewed as necessary and at the beginning of each academic year.  All medications must be in the original container, properly labeled and delivered to the school nurse by a responsible adult (parent/guardian or designee).  No more than a thirty (30) day supply will be accepted at one time. 

 

Medication must be retrieved in person by the parent/guardians.  Medication will be destroyed if it is not picked up within one week following termination of the order or one week beyond the close of school.

 

All medications will be stored in a locked cabinet or when required in a locked box in a refrigerator in the nurse's office.  All medications shall be dispensed by an R. N. (including on field trips, if the parent is not present) with the exception of medications that may be self-administered pursuant to M.G.L. Chapter 71 Section 54B.  Appropriate school staff shall be notified of medication administration by the school nurse (or student’s self-administration of prescription medication) with parent/guardian consent, if not in violation of confidentiality.  Administration of epinephrine will follow the procedures set forth by Department of Health Regulations. 

 

Students with asthma or other respiratory diseases may possess and self-administer prescription inhalers under the following rules for Student Self-Administration of Medication.

 

Students with cystic fibrosis may possess and self-administer prescription enzyme supplements under the following rules for Student Self-Administration of Medication.

 

Students with diabetes may possess and self-administer glucose monitoring tests and an insulin delivery system under the following rules for Student Self-Administration of Medication.

 

Rules for Student Self-Administration of Medication:

 

The school nurse may permit self-medication of prescription medication by a student

Provided that the following requirements are met:

 

  • The student, school nurse and parent/guardian enter into an agreement which specifies the conditions under which the prescription medication may be self-administered;

 

  • The school nurse develops a medication administration plan which contains elements necessary to ensure a safe self-administration of the prescription medication, including information for the safe storage of the prescription medication and providing for accessibility of the medication for the individual student;

 

  • The school nurse evaluates the student’s health status and abilities and deems self-administration safe and appropriate, after observing initial self-administration of the prescription medicine; "Self-administration" means that the student is able to consume or apply medication in the manner directed by the licensed prescriber, without additional assistance or direction.

 

  • The school nurse is reasonably assured that the student is able to identify the appropriate prescription medication, knows the frequency and time of day for which the prescription medication is ordered, and follows the school self-administration protocols;

 

  • There is on file a written authorization from the student’s parent or guardian that the student may self-medicate;

 

  • There is on file a written order from the licensed prescriber for self-administration;

 

  • The student documents the self-administration of the prescription medicine and must report weekly to the school nurse.  The school nurse will monitor the student’s self-administration as appropriate;

 

  • The student will keep a backup supply of the prescription medication with the school nurse.

 

Legal Reference: 105 CMR 210.01, et seq. and 71 M.G.L. 54B.

 

COMMUNICABLE DISEASES

Students showing signs of ill health or of being infected with a disease shall be sent home as soon as safe and proper conveyance can be arranged and shall remain at home until the communicable condition has been resolved to the satisfaction of the school nurse.

 

Parental help and cooperation are essential to prevent the spread of communicable diseases, such as conjunctivitis (pink eye), strep infections, and viruses. Students under treatment for conjunctivitis and strep throat must stay out of school for 24 hours of antibiotic treatment. A student who has been ill with a fever or symptoms of vomiting or diarrhea should not return to school until he/she has been symptom-free for 24 hours.

SERIOUS COMMUNICABLE DISEASE

1. When there is a confirmed case of a serious communicable disease (i.e. salmonella, pertussis,

   meningitis), the school nurse will immediately contact principal, pupil services office and

   superintendent of schools. In consultation with administrative personnel, the nurse will

   determine with the MDPH epidemiologist the guidelines for notification, exclusion and

   treatment of close contacts. Copies of all letters will be sent to superintendent for review before

   dissemination.

2. The director of Pupil Personnel Services and school nurse, in consultation with building

    principal will be responsible for:

a. Determining close contacts as defined by MDPH

b. Notifying parents of close contacts by letter and/or phone, depending on the urgency of

    seeking preventative treatment

c. Assigning additional personnel to assist with notification (i.e. guidance, secretarial

    staff, ESP’s)

d. Providing general notification to staff and the school community as indicated

3. School nurse will contact health care professionals in other schools if close contacts

    and/or siblings are involved.

4. School nurse shall be responsible for direct communication with family physicians and all

    health care agencies.

5. Students with a significant medical disability requiring a Section 504 Plan and/or and

    Individual Health Care Plan (IHCP) will be contacted by the school nurse, (as per the health

    plan), if they may be impacted by the spread of a communicable disease within the school

    community.

DISMISSAL BY NURSE

If a student becomes ill and must be dismissed from school, his or her parent(s) and/or guardian will be notified first by the school nurse. Only if a parent or guardian is unavailable will the emergency contact individual be called. All students should have an emergency release card which contains important telephone numbers where parent(s), guardian(s) or an individual which the parent has designated can be reached should illness or an emergency occur. (Please keep the school posted if information on the card changes and needs to be updated.)

 

In general students who are ill will not be allowed to walk or drive home, if deemed inappropriate by the school nurse. A parent or his/her delegate will be expected to transport the ill student home. For the safety of all involved, parents and/or guardians are asked to come into the health center and sign a dismissal log when picking up their ill student.

IMMUNIZATION

The School Immunization Law, Chapter 76, Section 15 of the General Laws states: “No child shall be admitted to school except as hereinafter provided. The provisions are:

 

1. A physician’s certificate listing immunizations given along with dates of administration.

 

2. A physician’s certificate stating immunization is contraindicated for health reasons.

 

3. A parent’s and/or guardian’s statement that immunization conflicts with religious beliefs

    which is submitted annually and verified by their clergy.”

 

The law requires immunization against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, measles, mumps and rubella (German measles). Parents and/or guardians will be notified as to which immunization(s) are needed or must be updated. Principals can refuse school admittance to students who have not had the required immunization(s) and who are not otherwise exempt, as explained above. Partially immunized students whose private physicians certify that they are in the process of receiving the required immunizations shall be regarded as in compliance with the

law.

 

In addition, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health requires a second dose of measles vaccine as a condition of school attendance for entry into the 7th grade and beyond until the year 2002. A Td (tetanus/diphtheria) booster is required in grades 10 through 12.

 

MEDICAL WAIVER and PHYSICAL EDUCATION EXCUSES

In order for a student to be granted a medical excuse from any course, including physical education, a physician’s certificate designating the length of time and the reasons examination, as required by state law. This may be performed by a student’s private physician or the school physician. (Parents are encouraged to use their own private physicians as the examination is much more complete with the availability of immunization updates and laboratory analysis.) If a student is to be excused from physical education due to medical reasons, the student must present a medical note from the student’s physician to the school nurse. Statements are kept on file in the health center and reported to the appropriate teacher, the guidance counselor, and the assistant principal. Generally, and within reason, parents are asked to keep in mind that students are encouraged to participate in physical education classes whenever medically feasible, despite parental requests.

 

Athletic sport physical examinations are offered three times a year through the school. Dates and times of the physical examinations are made known and posted well in advance in the main office, athletic director’s office and health center. They are held at the high school health center in mid-June for fall sports, mid- November for winter sports and in mid-March for spring sports. Physical examinations are valid for a period of twelve (12) months and must include the time interval in which the student participates in the sport. (For example, if a student has a physical for football in the fall, he or she will not require another physical in the spring to play baseball.)

All student athletes must present the school nurse, not only with the school or private physical examination form, but also with a signed M.I.A.A. form (available from the athletic director or school nurse) before participation is allowed.

 

Students are requested to be prompt for school physical examinations and also to have the necessary M.I.A.A. form signed by a parent or guardian, before the physical will be given. It is requested that students wear gym attire (halter tops for girls, gym shorts for all).

PREGNANCY

Pregnant students will be permitted to continue in school in all instances.  The student, in consultation with the school staff, will develop an appropriate educational plan if it is agreed she should no longer attend school regularly.

 

Every effort will be made to see that the educational program of the student is disrupted as little as possible; that health counseling services, as well as instruction are offered; that return to school after delivery is encouraged; and that every opportunity to complete high school is provided.

 

LEGAL REF.:              M.G.L 71:84

File: JIEE

SCREENINGS

Students in the ninth (9th) and eleventh (11th) grades are screened each year for vision and hearing. Heights and weights are also taken to measure proper rates of growth and development. Parents of students who show some deviation in their visual and/or auditory screenings will be notified. It then becomes the parent’s and/or guardian’s responsibility to ensure that the proper professional follow-up will be completed. Students in the ninth (9th) grade will also be screened for postural problems (scoliosis) in conjunction with physical education classes, as mandated by law. Since this is a health concern which is likely to develop during adolescent years of rapid growth, it is important for students to be assessed annually. Every student will be screened and will not be exempt unless a note from a private physician is provided, stated that the postural screening has been completed during the academic year starting in June. Although this screening is usually done during a physician’s annual examination, it must be specifically noted by the physician, such as “postural screening negative” or “scoliosis negative” on the private physical examination form.

 

Initial screening will be conducted in physical education classes in late February into March by the physical education staff that have been trained to conduct these screenings. All students with questionable findings will be referred to the school nurse who will re-screen the student and make final recommendations.

 

PLEASE DO NOT HESITATE TO CALL THE HEALTH CENTER WITH ANY

QUESTIONS AND/OR CONCERNS (541-2100 ex. 3080).

 

PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS

All tenth (10th) grade students are required to present evidence of a recent physical.

 

MANAGING LIFE THREATENING FOOD ALLERGIES IN THE EDUCATIONAL

ENVIRONMENT

Franklin Public Schools recognizes that students with life-threatening food allergies require reasonable accommodations necessary to ensure access to available education and education-related benefits. It is the policy of Franklin Public Schools that the management of life-threatening food allergies be accomplished in compliance with applicable state and federal regulations. Franklin Public Schools implements this policy and administrative procedures pursuant to the guidelines established by the Massachusetts Department of Education, in a document entitled, “Managing Life-Threatening Food Allergies in Schools” and other reliable resources relating to this issue.

 

It is the policy of the school committee to establish age-appropriate guidelines within the school district in order to minimize the risk to students with life-threatening food allergies (LTA). The guidelines established might include building-based medical emergency plans, the implementation of Individual Health Care Plans (IHCP) that include an individualized emergency plan, effective training programs for personnel, students, and consultation with appropriate medical specialists.

 

The Franklin Public Schools maintains the expectation that specific building-based guidelines/activities will be established to ensure that the health needs of all students will be met in the least restrictive environment. The student will assume more responsibility for maintaining their safety as they advance from elementary school to secondary school.

 

The Franklin Public Schools has developed protocol/guidelines for the management of life threatening food allergies. Building-based teams will consult with parents, and where applicable the student, to develop a safe and effective health plan so that the student will be able to access all educational programs. If appropriate, the school-based team may indicate on the IHCP and/or the 504 Plan that the student will carry the EPIPen on his/her person. Where this is a recommendation, all necessary training procedures and guidelines articulated in the policy will be adhered to.

 

Parents/Guardians of children placed in the same classroom with a child presenting with a Life-Threatening Food Allergy will be informed in writing and are requested to be sensitive to needs of children with these types of significant food allergies. We ask that parent/guardians comply with requests to inform the teacher when sending in any type of snack for the class.

 

 

V. CODE OF CONDUCT

 

Respect is at the heart of Franklin High School, respect for yourself, respect for the staff, and respect for your school. Every student has a right to an education that is free of duress, and every teacher has a right to expect respectful, prepared students in his/her classroom. The administration will treat all students consistently and equitably, and will respect the rights of all students to an education in a safe and healthy environment. Accordingly, the following rules and regulations will be administrated fairly and consistently to all students:

 

The Code of Conduct at Franklin High School is administered within the guidelines set forth by the Educational Reform Law of 1993 and the United States Supreme Court with regard to due process for students and is intended to be administered for disciplinary infractions that occur on school grounds or at school-sponsored events (on and off school ground) OR for disciplinary infractions that occur off school grounds but substantially disrupt the educational environment.

 

Franklin Public Schools have entered into a “Memorandum of Understanding” with the Police Department and the District Attorney. It deals with actions in school and on school grounds that violate laws. The memorandum is included at the end of this handbook.

 

Teachers will handle discipline violations that occur in their respective classrooms.

 

Teachers may:

1. Assign teacher detentions.

2. Notify parents/request parental conferences.

3. Implement consequences consistent with the infraction.

4. Refer students to the Assistant Principal if the situation so warrants.

 

The Administrator may assign at his/her discretion any of (but not limited to) the following consequences consistent with the Code of Conduct:

1. One or more office detentions.

2. Parental conferences.

3. Loss of Technology Center privileges.

4. Community Service.

5. Temporary or permanent removal from an academic class.

6. Loss of attendance privileges at school functions including but not limited to dances,

    athletic events, socials. This includes loss of attendance privileges at away sites as well

    as home sites, including senior week and commencement activities. 

7. Loss of use of automobile on school grounds.

8. Mandatory parental visit to school or function to remove a student.

9. Extended Detention

10. Alternative Discipline Program (A.D.P)

11. Saturday Detention

12. Exclusion from extra-curricular activities

13. Academic Suspension (in-school)

14. Out-of-School Suspension

15. Notification of proper authorities such as the Franklin Police and/or Fire departments.

16. Restitution for damaged or stolen property.

17. Referral to the Principal for possible exclusion/expulsion.

 

The Code of Conduct is based on a system of progressive discipline. This means that an administrator has the discretion to significantly increase penalties in the cases of second and third offenses. In determining the severity of the penalty or suspension, the appropriate administrator may consider all relevant facts, including but not limited to: 1) previous disciplinary record, 2) severity of disruption to the educational process, 3) degree of danger to self and/or others, 4) the degree to which the student is willing to change his/her inappropriate behavior. The Code of Conduct has been divided into five Groups. Each Group contains a range of consequences for the infractions as follows but are not limited as such. The Principal may increase the consequences assigned by the Assistant Principal.

CLASSIFICATION & CONSEQUENCES

 

GROUP I – Consequences of up to THREE Office Detentions

1. Tardy to School

2. In Hall Without a Pass

3. Disruptive Behavior in the Classroom/Hallway/Cafeteria/Office/Tech Center

4. Cutting Teacher Detention

5. Unauthorized use of electronic devices (1st offense – two detentions)

6. Unauthorized use of cell phone (1st offense – two detentions)

7. Driving to school without permission

8. Not following school’s food and beverage policy

9. Not following science safety protocols

10. Financial/Technology Center Obligations

11. Public Display of Affection

12. Unprepared for physical education (3rd offense – one detention)

13. Unprepared for physical education (4th offense – two detentions)

14. Failure to return required school documents

15. Leaving class prior to the bell

16. Loitering in the hallways

17. Misuse of a hall pass

18. Parking violation

19. Pass Restriction violation

20. Chronic tardiness to class

21. Unprepared for class

22. Using unassigned locker

23. Leaving school locker unlocked

24. Dress code violation (1st offense)

25. Inappropriate language

26. Other behaviors requiring disciplinary action (to be specified on the referral form)

 

GROUP II -    Consequences of up to THREE Extended Detentions / Saturday Detentions

or THREE DAYS of ACADEMIC SUSPENSION

1. Repeat violation of Group I offenses

2. Excessive tardiness to school

3. Being in an unauthorized area

4. Skipping school

5. Cutting Office Detention

6. Ejection from Office Detention

7. Cutting Extended Detention

8. Ejection from Extended Detention

9. Cutting Saturday Detention

10. Ejection from Saturday Detention

11. Cutting ADP

12. Ejection from ADP

13. Leaving school without permission

14. Smoking and / or possession of tobacco-related products (including lighters) – (first offense)

15. Not following school procedures and/ or policy

16. Disrespectful behavior

17. Cutting class

18. Truancy - Unauthorized absence for students under 16 years old.

19. Cheating

20. Plagiarism

21. Gambling / possession of gambling paraphernalia

22. Failure to verify an absence

23. Dress code violation (2nd offense)

24. Dismissed without proper protocol

25. Unprepared for physical education (5th offense)

26. Academic Dishonesty

27. Bus rule violation

28. Cafeteria / lunch rule violation

29. Forgery

30. Insubordination

31. Unauthorized use of cell phone (2nd offense)

32. Unauthorized use of electronic devices (2nd offense)

33. Vulgar language / spoken / written / gestures

34. Disrespect

35. Failure to follow an administrative / staff directive

36. Failure to report to A and/or B House

37. Other behaviors requiring disciplinary action. (To be specified on the referral form)

 

GROUP III - Consequences of up to THREE DAYS OF OUT-OF-SCHOOL SUSPENSION.

1. Repeat violation of Group II offense

2. Insubordination

3. Excessive vulgar language / spoken / written / gestures

4. Violation of suspension protocol

5. Smoking and/or possession of tobacco product, including lighters (2nd offense)

6. Misuse of school property

7. Dangerous / reckless behavior

8. Repeated violations of school policies

9. Excessive disruptive / disrespectful behavior

10. Accessory to or inciting a physical conflict

11. Acceptable Use Policy violation

12. Inciting a school disturbance

13. Unauthorized use of electronic video / still image device

14. Possession of forbidden articles

16. Ejection from Academic Suspension

17. Other behaviors requiring disciplinary action. (To be specified on referral)

 

GROUP IV - Consequences of up to FIVE DAYS OUT-OF-SCHOOL SUSPENSION. Any student who commits a Group IV Offense and may be transferred to the Principal for future disciplinary action.  

1. Repeat Violations of group III offense.

2. Verbal assault/intimidation

3. Fighting/physical conflict in school / at school function

4. Vandalism / Tagging

5. Stealing or possession of stolen property

6. Smoking / possession of tobacco products, including lighters (3rd offense)

7. Hazing (see section on Hazing)

8. Sexual Harassment (see section on Sexual Harassment)

9. Harassment (see section on Harassment)

10. Bullying / Cyberbullying

11. Hate Crimes

12. Possession of drug-related materials and/or paraphernalia

13. Possession of incendiary devices

14. Other behaviors requiring disciplinary action. (to be specified on referral)

 

 

GROUP V - Consequences of FIVE TO TEN DAYS OF OUT-OF –SCHOOL SUSPENSION. Any student who commits a Group V Offense and may be transferred to the Principal for additional disciplinary action.

1. Repeat Violation of Group IV Offense.

2. Arson

3. Abuse of or unauthorized use of fire extinguisher

4. Assault

5. Fighting

6. Assault of a staff member

7. False Alarm

8. Drug or Alcohol Violations - refer to the District’s Drug and Alcohol Policy.

9. Weapons Violations (including fireworks) - refer to the Districts Weapons Policy.

10. Fighting/Physical Conflict - 2nd incident in a student’s high school career.

11. Willful Acts Against the School

12. Violation of the Safe School Act of 1994 - (see section on Safe School Act)

13. Violation of Provisions in the Education Reform Act of 1993 - (see Districts Weapons

      Policy, and Education Reform Act of 1993)

14. Violation of School Safety Policy - (see section on School Safety Policy)

15. Other egregious behaviors requiring disciplinary action. (To be specified on referral form)

DETENTIONS

Students must report to detention prepared to do school work. There will be no food, drink, hats, cell phones, or electronic devices in detention. In addition, no talking (or any form of communication) or disruptive behavior will be tolerated in detention. Students who do not adhere to these expectations will be removed from detention. The school administration places the responsibility upon the student not to accumulate detentions. It is the student’s responsibility to complete assignments and to follow rules and regulations if he/she does not want to remain after school. While jobs and involvement in sports and other school based activities are judged to be very important, the serving of detention takes precedence with few exceptions.

 

Students will be given 24 hours notice prior to being expected to serve a detention with either a teacher or the office. Students may meet with a teacher for extra help during their detention. After meeting with the teacher, the student must report directly to the detention room.

 

Teacher Detention will be assigned by the teacher and held in his or her classroom. The length of a teacher detention will be determined by the teacher, but will not exceed one hour.

 

Office Detention will occur immediately after school Monday through Thursday, from 2:10 to 3:00 p.m. The staff member monitoring the detention is provided a printout of all students assigned that day and is responsible for: (1) logging in the students, (2) overseeing detention until its 3:00 PM ending time, and (3) returning the attendance record for the detention to the Assistant Principals. The monitoring teacher is not responsible for negotiating any type of deal, bargain, or adjustment with a student around the issue of concurrent detentions or scheduling conflicts. The teacher’s stance is simple: “Stay or go home. But if you go home, you must bring a written note (from a parent or guardian) explaining the situation to an assistant principal tomorrow morning.” If the student must leave, the detention will still be served at the next possible date. The Assistant Principals will be responsible for the tracking of office detention attendance and instances of “cutting.” The Assistant Principals will assume responsibility of reminding students who had multiple detentions assigned on the same day of their remaining obligations and will initiate and carry out the consequence for cutting a major detention.

 

Cutting an Office Detention will automatically result in the assignment of an Extended Detention and involve the student’s parents in the problem-solving process. If the need for an alternative detention time should arise, the Assistant Principals will assume responsibility.

 

Extended Detention is a two and one half-hour detention assigned to students for certain misbehaviors. Extended Detention meets on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from

2:10-4:40 p.m. The following rules apply:

 

1. Students will be expected to read and/or write throughout the entire Extended Detention session. Students must bring books, notebooks, etc. to Extended Detention

2. Students must arrive to Extended Detention with all materials, clothing, etc. they will be bringing home, as they will leave the building and not be allowed to go to their lockers at the end of extended detention

3. Students who arrive tardy to Extended Detention will be assigned office detention.

4. Talking, sleeping, eating, etc. are not allowed during Extended Detention.

5. Transportation will not be provided for students at the end of Extended Detention. Students must arrange for their own transportation home prior to the day they are scheduled for Extended Detention.

6. Students who do not attend Extended Detention, or who are removed from Extended Detention as the result of inappropriate behavior:

a. WILL REPORT TO A or B HOUSE OFFICE BEFORE FIRST PERIOD ON THE

    FOLLOWING SCHOOL DAY.

b. will not be allowed to return to their classes prior to the completion of a conference

    with the Assistant Principal.

c. will be assigned Saturday detention, academic suspension, or out-of-school suspension.

    Repeated cutting of Extended Detention will result in long-term suspension.

d. will be assigned to the next Extended Detention session.

SATURDAY DETENTION PROGRAM

A student may be assigned to a Saturday detention by an administrator. This program starts at 8:00 A.M. and ends at 11:00 A.M. and involves school and community service work. A student who does not attend or complete the obligations is subject to academic and/or out-of-school suspension.

 

ALTERNATIVE DISCIPLINE PROGRAM (ADP)

ADP will be assigned to students who demonstrate chronic behavioral issues and require an alternative pathway to modify behavior. The Assistant Principals make the determination when ADP is necessary for a student. ADP will run from 2:10 to 3:30 and consist of academic work and counseling with Franklin High’s support staff. Dates and times will be determined.

ELIGIBILITY TO PARTICIPATE IN SCHOOL ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS

Franklin High School extra-curricular activities and events are an important part of the educational experience for our students, but participation in these activities is a privilege, not a right. The variety of clubs, activities and events is extensive and students are encouraged to become involved in one or more of these opportunities.

 

Participation in clubs and activities at Franklin High School and attending school-sponsored, school-related events is a privilege afforded to students who remain in good standing.  To participate in school activities, events and clubs, students are expected to maintain good attendance and good grades and demonstrate good behavior and citizenship during school and at school-sponsored events.  Eligibility for participation in activities, events, clubs, awards, scholarships and honorary positions at Franklin High School is limited to students who are currently enrolled in and attending Franklin High School in good standing. Students not meeting these expectations may be excluded at the discretion of the Principal or his designee. 

NO CONTACT AGREEMENT

Students are expected to maintain healthy and respectful relationships with their peers. Franklin High School offers a variety of support – peer mediation, guidance and adjustment counselors, school psychologists, administration – to help navigate and improve these relationships. If a peer conflict does arise and cannot be resolved respectfully and collaboratively, the Franklin administration reserves the right to issue a No Contact Agreement between the students. Failure to adhere to the No Contact Agreement may result in school-based discipline.

 

 

NO CONTACT AGREEMENT

 

NAME:

DATE:

 

Thank you for taking the time to talk with school administrator ____________ today to discuss a conflict between you and the following peers:  __________________

 

After reviewing the conflict with all students involved, the following No Contact rules will be put into effect for everyone involved (both sides):

 

a)      There will be no texting between factions

b)      No internet-based communication

c)      No phone calls

d)      No talking or other means of verbal communication

e)      No third party communication

f)       No viewing of each other’s blog and/or internet postings

g)      No non-verbal communication

 

The school resource officer will be given the names of all students issued no contact notifications, and a parent of each student will be notified of this contact notification agreement.

Violations of this No Contract notification order should be reported to your Assistant Principal so that a further investigation can take place and school-based discipline can take effect, as appropriate, according to the student-parent handbook. 

 

By signing this agreement, I agree to the follow the No Contact rules as outlined above.

 

 

_________________________                  __________________________

    Student Signature                                           School Administrator


SUSPENSIONS

Academic Suspension:

A student may be removed from a class or a full day of classes for a designated period of time for continuous or serious misconduct in a classroom (which interferes with the educational process of other students) or a failure to adhere to school policies and procedures.

 

Written documentation of the incident will be kept on file; parents will be notified. If the situation does not improve to the acceptable classroom standards set by the teacher when the student returns to the classroom, the student will be removed from the class permanently with complete loss of credit in the course.

Out-of-School Suspension:

A drug-related offense or an offense determined by the assistant principal or principal to be of serious nature may result in an Out-of-School Suspension, the length of which will be determined by the assistant principal or principal. Following an Out-of-School Suspension, students will be allowed one (1) day for every day suspended in order to make up any and all school work (including quizzes and tests). Out-of-School Suspension days are documented absences in all classes and work will be recorded as a zero unless the student supplies the required finished work to the teacher in the time allotted.

 

A parent conference with the Assistant Principal is strongly encouraged before students who are suspended are allowed to return to school. This conference cannot be completed over the phone. Students suspended for five days or more must meet with the Principal or his designee before being readmitted to school.

ASSIGNMENT OF DISCIPLINARY CONSEQUENCES

Parents or guardians will be informed by email of all infractions of school rules and procedures which may result in suspension or other serious disciplinary action. Parents will be notified of all academic, social and out-of-school suspensions and will receive a letter of notification.

EXCLUSION/EXPULSION:

The exclusion or expulsion of a student from school will be in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 71, Section, 37H. The grounds for exclusion or expulsion

include but are not limited to the following:

 

 a. Any student who is found on school premises or at school-sponsored or school-related

     events, including athletic games, in possession of a dangerous weapon, including, but

     not limited to, a gun, a knife, or their facsimile, or anything used in the commission of

     assault and battery; or a controlled substance as defined in Chapter 94 C, including,

     but not limited to, marijuana, cocaine, and heroin, may be subject to expulsion from

     the school or school district by the principal.

b. Any student who assaults a principal, assistant principal, teacher, teacher’s aide, or

    other educational staff on school premises or at school-sponsored or school-related

    events, including athletic games, may be subject to expulsion from the school or school

    district by the principal.

c. Any student who is charged with a violation of either paragraph (a) or (b) shall be

    notified in writing of an opportunity for a hearing; provided, however, that the student

    may have representation, along with the opportunity to present evidence and witnesses

    at a hearing before the principal. After said hearing, a principal may, in his/her

    discretion, decide to suspend rather than expel a student who has been determined by

    the principal to have violated either paragraph (a) or (b).

d. Any student who has been expelled from a school district pursuant to these provisions

    shall have the right to appeal to the superintendent. The expelled student shall have ten

    days from the date of the expulsion in which to notify the superintendent of his/her

    appeal. The student has the right to counsel at a hearing before the superintendent. The

    subject matter of the appeal shall not be limited solely to a factual determination of

    whether the student has violated any provisions of this section.

e. When a student is expelled under the provisions of this section and applies for

    admission to another school for acceptance, the superintendent of the sending school

    shall notify the superintendent of the receiving school of the reasons for the pupil’s

    expulsion.

 

Note:

A student who is found to have assaulted another student is subject to suspension by the administration and expulsion by the School Committee.

FELONY COMPLAINT OR CONVICTION

Notwithstanding the provisions of section eighty-four (84) and section sixteen (16) and seventeen (17) of chapter seventy-six (76):

 

1. Upon the issuance of a criminal complaint charging a student with a felony or upon the

    issue of a felony delinquency complaint against a student, the principal or headmaster  

    of a school in which the student is enrolled may suspend such student for a period of

    time determined appropriate by said principal or headmaster if said principal or

    headmaster determines that the student’s continued presence in school would have a

    substantial detrimental effect on the general welfare of the school. The student shall

    receive written notification of this right to appeal and the reasons for such suspension

    taking effect. Upon expulsion of such student, no school or school district shall be

    required to provide educational services to the student. Added by St. 1993, c.380, s.2

    shall also receive written notification of this right to appeal and the process for

    appealing such suspension; provided however, that such suspension shall remain in

    effect prior to any appeal hearing conducted by the superintendent.

 

    The student shall have the right to appeal the suspension to the superintendent. The

    student shall notify the superintendent in writing of his request for an appeal no later

    than five calendar days following the effective date of the suspension. The

    superintendent shall hold a hearing with the student and the student’s parent or

    guardian within three calendar days of the student’s request for an appeal. At the

    hearing, the student shall have the right to counsel. The superintendent shall have the

    authority to overturn or alter the decision of the principal or headmaster, including

    recommending an alternate educational program for the student. The superintendent

    shall render a decision on the appeal within five calendar days of the hearing. Such

    decision shall be the final decision of the city, town, or regional school district with

    regard to the suspension.

 

2. Upon a student being convicted of a felony or upon an adjudication or admission in

    court of guilt with respect to such felony or felony delinquency, the principal or

    headmaster of a school in which the student is enrolled may expel said student if such

    principal or headmaster determines that the student’s continued presence in school

    would have a detrimental effect of the general welfare of the school. The student shall

    receive written notification of the charges and reasons for such expulsion prior to such

    expulsion taking effect. The student shall also receive written notification of his right

    to appeal and the process for appealing such expulsion; provided, however, that the

    expulsion shall remain in effect prior to any appeal hearing conducted by the

    superintendent.

 

    The student shall have the right to appeal the expulsion to the superintendent. The   

    student shall notify the superintendent, in writing, of his request for an appeal no later

    than five calendar days following the effective date of the expulsion. The

    superintendent shall hold a hearing with the student and the student’s parent or

    guardian within three calendar days of the expulsion. At the hearing, the student shall

    have the right to present oral and written testimony on his behalf, and shall have the

    right to counsel. The superintendent shall have the authority to overturn or alter the

    decision of the principal or headmaster, including recommending an alternate

    educational program for the student. The superintendent shall render a decision on the

    appeal within five calendar days of the hearing. Such decision shall be the final

    decision of the city, town, or regional school district with regard to the expulsion.

DUE PROCESS RIGHTS AND PROCEDURE

1. In cases of suspensions for ten days or fewer, the student has the following rights:

a. the right to oral or written notice of charges against him/her.

b. the right to an explanation of the evidence which the school authorities have   

    against him/her

c. the opportunity to present his/her side of the story.

2. For suspensions longer than ten days, more formal procedures could be required. 

    Those procedures may include:

a. the right to cross-examine witnesses against the student.

b. time to prepare for a hearing.

c. the right to present witnesses and testimony.

d. the right to counsel.

3. These more formal due process procedures may also be required in some suspensions

    of less than ten days or other appropriate circumstances.

4. Although the above procedures should normally precede the suspension or expulsion,

    in emergency situations the student may be summarily removed from the public

    school, with a hearing to follow as soon as possible.

 

PROCEDURES FOR DISCIPLINING STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES

In general, all students are expected to meet the requirements for behavior as set forth in the student handbook and the school’s code of conduct. In accordance with Chapter 71B of the Massachusetts General Laws and with federal law IDEA 2004: Section 615 (k), and with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973: 29 U.S.C. Section 794 (A), the school may suspend or remove your child from his or her current placement for no more than 10 school days. Special provisions are outlined below for students with a documented disability who have an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a Section 504 Plan.

 

Suspension of Students with Disabilities

 

Procedures for suspension(s) not exceeding 10 school days:

• Any student with a disability may be suspended for up to ten (10) days during a school

   year. Disciplinary decisions are the same as for students without disabilities.

• Special circumstances exist if your child: possesses, uses, sells or solicits illegal drugs

   on school grounds or at a school-sponsored event; carries a weapon to school or a

   school-sponsored event; or inflicts serious bodily harm upon another person at school

   or a school-sponsored event. Under these circumstances, the principal may place your

   child in an interim alternate educational setting (IAES) for up to 45 school days. Your

   child may remain in this IAES for a period of time not to exceed 45 school days.

   Thereafter, your child will return to the previously agreed-upon placement unless a

   hearing officer has ordered another placement, or you and the school agree to another

   placement.

Procedures for suspension of students with a disability when suspension exceeds 10 school days.

• If your child is suspended for more than 10 school days in a school year, this removal is

   considered a “change of placement”. A change of placement invokes certain procedural

   protections under federal special education law and Section 504.

• Prior to any removal that constitutes a change of placement, the school will convene a

   Team meeting to develop a plan for conducting a functional behavioral assessment

   (FBA) that will be used as the basis for developing specific strategies to address your

   child’s problematic behavior.

• Prior to any removal that constitutes a change in placement, the school must inform you

   that the law requires the school district consider whether or not the behavior that forms

   the basis of the disciplinary action is related to your child’s disability. This

   consideration is called a “manifestation determination”. Parents have a right to

   participate in this process. All relevant information will be considered including the IEP

   or Section 504 Plan, teacher observations, and evaluations reports.

• At a manifestation determination meeting, the Team will consider:

>Did the student’s disability cause or have a direct and substantial relationship to     

  the conduct in question?

>Was the conduct a direct result of the district’s failure to implement the IEP?

• If the manifestation determination decision is that the disciplinary action was related to

   the disability, then your child may not be removed from the current educational

   placement (unless under the special circumstances). The Team will review the IEP or

   Section 504 Plan and any behavioral intervention plans.

• If the manifestation determination decision is that the disciplinary action was not related

   to the disability, then the school may suspend or otherwise discipline your child

   according the school’s code of conduct. For students with IEPs, during the period of

   time of removal from school that exceeds 10 school days, the school district must

   provide educational services that allow your child to continue to make educational

   progress. For students with Section 504 Plans, there is no automatic right to receive

   educational services beyond the 10th school day of suspension.

Special circumstances for exclusion

• Special circumstances exist if your child: possesses, uses, sells or solicits illegal drugs

   on school grounds or at a school-sponsored event; carries a weapon to school or a

   school-sponsored event; or inflicts serious bodily harm upon another person at school

   or a school-sponsored event. Under these circumstances, the principal may place your

   child in an interim alternate educational setting (IAES) for up to 45 school days. Your

   child may remain in this IAES for a period of time not to exceed 45 school days.

   Thereafter, your child will return to the previously agreed-upon placement unless a

   hearing officer has ordered another placement, or you and the school agree to another

   placement. For students with Section 504 Plans, there is no automatic right to receive

   educational services beyond the 10th school day of suspension.

 

School personnel will provide Parent’s Notice of Procedural Safeguards (Special Education) or Notice of Parent and Student Rights Under Section 504 for students with disabilities prior to any suspension exceeding 10 school days in one school year. These notices will provide an explanation of the process should there be disagreement regarding the manifestation determination or any placement decision. Parent, guardian and/or student may petition Bureau of Special Education Appeals for a hearing or the Office of Civil Rights (Section 504). Until issues are resolved, the student remains in his or her current placement.

 

VI. STUDENT EXPECTATION INFORMATION

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Announcements will be made over the P.A. system at 8:40 a.m., and notices should be submitted (clear, concise writing) to the Main Office on the day prior to the desired day of announcement. All announcements must have administrative approval. Results of after-school competition may be submitted the following morning for announcements that day.

BOOKS AND EQUIPMENT

If a student loses or vandalizes a book, equipment, lock, or locker, he/she will be expected to pay for it.

CELL PHONE AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE POLICY

It is the policy of the Franklin Public School District to create a safe learning environment for all students and staff. The District recognizes that the use of electronic devices and cell phones during school can detract from the learning environment. For example, students can use cell phones to video tape and record images and/or materials that are not appropriate and then distribute them to other students, creating a hostile learning environment. Inappropriate texting and pictures can result in bullying and cheating. Therefore, to promote a safe learning environment, the District’s Elementary schools, Middle schools, and High School shall have rules relative to the use of electronic devices in the school setting.

CELL PHONES AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES

The use of cell phones and electronic devices is strictly prohibited during a class period. Furthermore, cell phones and electronic devices (IPods, ITouch, MP3 players, ear buds, etc.) must be shut off during class and not be visible. If a student uses his or her cell phone or electronic device during a class period (in a classroom, hallway, bathroom, cafeteria), the equipment will be confiscated by school staff and secured in A or B House. In addition, if a student’s cell phone or electronic device disrupts a class or the educational process in any manner or if the cell phone or electronic device is visible, the equipment will be confiscated by school staff and secured in A or B House. The cell phone or electronic device will not be returned to the student; parents should contact the assistant principal to schedule a time to pick up the electronic device. Students also will face progressive disciplinary action. If a student refuses to turn over his or her cell phone, the student will receive a Saturday Detention.

 

Students may use their cell phones and electronic devices:

1.      prior to the start of school and after school

2.      during passing time (texting only, no phone calls)

3.      in A and B House, the main office, and the nurses’ office to make phone calls and send and/or retrieve information (with staff permission)

 

Students may not use their cell phones and electronic devices or have them visible:

1.      in a classroom (including the Tech Center, Computer Labs, Theater, Guidance Office, C House, Field House) or during a class period

2.      in the cafeteria or in the hallways during a lunch period

3.      during assemblies, class meetings and/or presentations

4.      in the locker rooms

5.      during Detentions or Academic Suspension

6.      in the hallways / bathrooms while class is in session

 

Students may use a cell phone or electronic device for an educational purpose with a teacher or staff member’s permission. The teacher will be required to petition the administration for this allowance. Students should be aware that authorized cell phone and/or electronic device use is restricted to the classroom and should be used educationally and appropriately. Under this provision, if a student is not using his or her cell phone or electronic device appropriately, the equipment will be confiscated by school staff and secured in A or B House.

CELL PHONE / ELECTRONIC VIDEO AND STILL-IMAGE DEVICES

The unauthorized use of electronic video devices (handheld video

camcorders, video cellular phones, and other electronic video or electronic still

image devices) is prohibited at all times in Franklin High School. If a student uses an electronic video or still-image device in an unauthorized manner, the equipment will be confiscated, secured in the A or B House Office, and returned to his/her parent. Any unauthorized capture or distribution of electronic video or still images may result in disciplinary action and/or possible prosecution by the Franklin Police Department.

ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION BETWEEN STUDENTS AND STAFF/TEACHERS/COACHES POLICY

It is the policy of the Franklin Public School District to maintain appropriate electronic communications between students and staff, teachers and coaches at all times. The District recognizes that there are efficient and appropriate means of communication available to staff/teachers/coaches who need to contact students. Staff/teachers/coaches shall utilize official school email accounts, the school website, or Connect-Ed for electronic communications. Text messaging between students and staff/teachers/coaches is strictly prohibited. Staff/teachers/coaches shall not respond to text messages or social network invitations from students.

DRESS CODE

Since Franklin High School is recognized as an educational environment and a place of business it is important that students dress in a manner conducive to good health practices and safety regulations. Dress should not hinder the educational process and should present a comfortable atmosphere for students, faculty and staff. If an administrator deems that a student’s form of dress interferes with the educational process or presents an uncomfortable atmosphere, that student will be asked to make appropriate changes.

 

All students are expected to attend school appropriately dressed and properly groomed. Hats may be worn to school but must be removed upon entering the building and placed in lockers. Clothing that includes logos that in any way glamorizes the use or sale of alcohol/drugs, promotes hatred, or contains a sexually suggestive message, will not be tolerated in school or at school functions. Bare midriffs are not acceptable, and tops and bottoms should not expose the belly or back. No undergarments should be visible. Halter-tops, tube tops, spaghetti straps and/or plunging necklines are not acceptable. Underwear type shirts should not be worn as regular clothing. Jeans, pants, skirts and shorts should not inappropriately expose the body. Skirts and shorts should be as close to mid thigh in length as possible. Any manner of dress that the administration deems inappropriate will not be tolerated. Also, any chains or other items that can be used as harm inflicting devices will not be tolerated at Franklin High School.

 

In summary: The “6 B’s” should not be exposed at FHS:

                     Bellies, Butts, Breasts, Bras, Boxers, Backs

EMERGENCY PROCEDURE / FIRE DRILLS

Fire drills will be held periodically throughout the school year. Students must familiarize themselves with the directions posted in each room and contained within this manual. Students will be informed of the proper exits. Full cooperation is necessary in the event of an emergency situation. Teachers will remain with their classes at all times. When all students have filed quietly out of the building, teachers will direct them to an area away from the building and dumpsters where attendance will be taken and will remain until notification is given for return.

 

Things to remember in the event of an emergency:

Move out as quickly and as calmly as possible.

Close all doors and windows and switch off lights.

No talking; we must be able to hear directions.

Stay with your class and teacher.

FOOD IN SCHOOL AND CAFETERIA POLICY

The school cafeteria is a vital part of the daily operation of our school.

The following regulations govern student behavior during the lunch period:

(Violations of cafeteria rules will result in detention or suspension.)

1. Food or drink may not be taken from the cafeteria.

2. When lunch period is over, students are to deposit paper and other trash in the proper  

    receptacles. ALL STUDENTS SEATED AT A TABLE ARE RESPONSIBLE

                FOR THE CLEANLINESS OF THAT TABLE.

3. Once students have entered the cafeteria, they are to remain for the entire lunch period.

4. Students are not to throw anything at any time in the cafeteria.

5. Students are to enter the lunch lines by way of the hallways only.

6. Cutting in lunch lines is prohibited.

7. The consumption of food in the halls and classes will not be tolerated.

FORBIDDEN ARTICLES

Drug paraphernalia, weapons of any kind, any article resembling a weapon, tape players, radios, and beepers are strictly forbidden.

FORGOTTEN ITEMS, MESSAGES, DROP OFFS

Students must be responsible for picking up dropped off items such as money, lunch, books and projects. Items can be picked up in the main office between classes. Phone calls to classrooms will be limited. Students should NOT expect to be called down when items arrive.

GAMBLING

Students may not engage in activities that involve or promote gambling. Activities such as football, fantasy games, or other “pools” along with other forms of betting, card playing, games of chance, dice, etc. are prohibited.

LOCKDOWN AND EVACUATION DRILLS

Lockdown and evacuation drills will be held periodically throughout the school year. Students must familiarize themselves with the protocols outlined by the school administration, the Franklin Police Department, and other safety officials. Students will be informed of the proper exits and procedures. Full cooperation is necessary in the event of an emergency situation.

LOCKERS

Lockers are the property of Franklin Public Schools and are provided as a privilege for convenience only.  The locker, in its entirety, including the space within the locker, shall be the property of the school.  Students are cautioned that they may use the locker subject to the right of the school to open the locker at any time for inspection, and there should be no expectation of privacy in the student locker.

 

Homeroom teachers will issue lockers to students. Each student will be loaned a locker for his/her personal use. Only school issued locks are to be used. Other locks will be removed by the school without notice. Students are to use only the locker to which they have been assigned. Students are to keep lockers secured at all times to protect their property. The school reserves the right to check lockers as determined by the Administration. If you cannot open or secure your locker, report this difficulty to the A or B house office. Locker privileges may be revoked if students abuse the locker or have more than one person using a locker. In addition, students may face disciplinary action if they do not lock their locker. Phys. Ed. Lockers are not to be considered “secure” storage. Students should not keep valuable items in these lockers. Franklin High School is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

LOST AND FOUND

Lost and found depositories will be located in the Main Office and A and B House Offices. All found articles, books, clothing, etc., should be turned in to the above mentioned areas. Students who have lost an article may claim it upon proper description of the said article.

NO SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS

“NO SCHOOL” announcements will be announced over Radio Station WBZ-Boston, WOON-Woonsocket, WEEI-Boston, WMRC-Milford, WPRO-Providence, WCVBTV, Channel 5 between 6:30 and 7:30 a.m. ConnectEd will also be used to notify students.

PADLOCKS

Students who are assigned a school department padlock must return that padlock, with combination number, at the end of the school year, or they will be responsible for the cost of the lock. Students who lose the school department padlock they have been assigned during the school year must pay for that padlock prior to being assigned a second. If a student does not lock his or her lock, he or she may face disciplinary action.

PARENT/TEACHER APPOINTMENTS

If parents would like to have a conference with their students’ teachers, please call the guidance counselor or email the teacher directly to arrange an appointment for a parent/ teacher conference.

PASS POLICY

1. No student should be anywhere in the building without a school-issued pass. If a student is in

    the hallway without a pass, he or she will be returned to his or her classroom and may face

    disciplinary action.

2. Students are encouraged to use the bathrooms during passing period. Should a student need to

    use the bathroom during the class, the teacher must assign the student a pass. The H-wing and

    Cafeteria restrooms are open for student use, before and after school, and during class and

    passing periods.

3. Passes to the nurse’s office are to be issued by teachers when conditions warrant.

    Students are only to use the restrooms designated for student use. Students should not be sent

    to the nurse for the sole purpose of using the rest rooms.

4. Restrictions will be placed on students who misuse the corridor pass privilege.

 

POSTERS

All posters, flyers, notices, handbills, advertisements, signs, etc., must be officially approved and signed by the building administration before they are displayed anywhere on school property.

VANDALISM

Any student found guilty of willful destruction of school property will be subject to the financial cost of repair or replacement and will also be subject to suspension or expulsion from the school system. Legal authorities may also be notified.

SMOKING/TOBACCO FINES

The Town of Franklin has authorized/deputized the Principal and Assistant Principals to issue fines of $100.00 for smoking on school property.

STUDENT SURVEYS

Since 1991, and every two years, students in grades 6-12 in the Franklin School District have been involved in a very important survey regarding health risks. This survey is an important source of information that impacts curriculum, counseling, and interventions to assist students at risk. The survey is voluntary and strictly anonymous. A copy of the survey and the results are available through the Health and Physical Education Department Office, which is located in Franklin High School. Parents/guardians not wishing their children to participate must notify the building principal, in writing, within the first ten days of school. All Student surveys require prior administrative approval.

WORKING PAPERS

A student requesting a work permit may download an application from the Attorney General’s web site at ago.state.ma.us or pick one up at the high school main office. The application must be filled out by the prospective employer and returned to the high school. If the student is under 16 years old, the form must also be filled out by a parent and the child’s physician. When the completed form is returned to the high school, a work permit will be issued the following school day.

 

A parent, as well as the student, is required to come to the high school to sign the work permit when it is issued to a student under the age of 16. A student 16 and over sign the permit themselves.

 

During the school year, at least one day’s advance notice is required for the issuing of working papers.

 

 

VII. TRANSPORTATION

BUS PROCEDURES

All high school buses will stop around the school building for the loading of passengers starting in the front and circling around the field house.

 

Note: When a student boards the school bus, he/she is on school property. All rules and regulations of the school apply from the time a student boards the bus until he/she disembarks the bus. Inappropriate behavior is sufficient cause for permanent removal from the bus. These procedures govern student behavior anytime he/she boards a school bus.

BUS PASSES

Bus passes are issued to each student who is eligible to ride. Students are expected to have their bus pass each day and to make sure that it is visible to the bus driver. In the event that a student forgets a bus pass in the morning, that student will be given one day’s grace. If that same student does not have a pass the next day, he/she will not be allowed to board the bus.

 

In the event that a student loses a pass, there are temporary bus passes in the Assistant Principal’s Office. The student may use that pass until a replacement bus pass is issued. There is a $5.00 charge for replacement bus passes.

SCHOOL BUS RULES AND REGULATIONS

1. Pupils being transported are under the authority of the bus driver who is subject to all

    school policies and regulations

2. Pupils shall be on time for the bus both mornings and afternoon. The driver is not

    required to wait beyond the scheduled departure time of the bus.

3. Pupils shall cross the road in front of the bus.

4. Students are to board and get off the bus at the school and stop to which they are

    assigned unless they have a note signed by the principal. ALL NOTES FROM

    PARENTS MUST GO TO THE OFFICE. THEY WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED BY

    THE DRIVER.

5. Students will not be allowed off the bus while waiting at any school or any other

    designated stop.

6. High school students will not be allowed to ride the elementary school buses. Any

    exceptions to this rule will be handled by the principals involved.

7. All articles such as athletic equipment, books, musical instruments, etc., must be kept

    out of the aisles.

8. While awaiting the arrival of the bus, students must remain well back from the

    roadway, in an orderly fashion.

9. The bus driver has full authority to assign seats to individual students if the driver feels

    it is in the interest of safety and/or good conduct.

10. No pets or animals will be allowed on the bus, except for service animals with prior approval of the Superintendent.

11. The bus driver has the authority to summon the police or school administrator in a

      situation of an uncontrollable student.

12. Pupils shall not extend their hands, arms, or heads through the bus windows and will

      not open any window without permission of the driver.

13. Nothing shall be thrown out of bus windows.

14. Pupils will converse in normal tones; loud or vulgar language, shouting,

      roughhousing or throwing things in the bus is prohibited.

15. Pupils shall be COURTEOUS to the driver, to fellow pupils and passersby.

16. Lighting of matches or cigarette lighters will not be allowed.

17. SMOKING IS NEVER PERMITTED.

18. Pupils will enter the bus in an orderly fashion and go directly to a seat and remain

      seated until the destination is reached unless instructed otherwise by the driver.

19. There shall be no littering or defacing of the buses. Vandalism of any type will

      require restitution and suspension from school.

20. Use, possession, or sale of drugs or alcohol on the bus is strictly forbidden.

21. NOTE: The emergency door must be used for emergency only. DO NOT touch any

      safety equipment on the bus.

22. It is essential that all pupils cooperate with the bus driver for the safety of all.

 

The above rules will be strictly enforced. The bus driver has full authority and responsibility to enforce order and maintain discipline by direct command to the pupils. In the event of a discipline problem with a student, the driver will deliver the student to his or her destination and then notify the assistant principal or the principal.

MOTOR VEHICLES AND BICYCLES

The privilege of students using motor vehicles for transportation to and from school is a cooperative relationship which is permitted as long as it does not become a problem for parents and school officials. Student’s parking privileges are subject to revocation if conduct in school results in suspension when a vehicle is used to facilitate a violation of school rules. Parking privileges will be terminated for a length of time determined by the administration.  In the event that school administration has reasonable cause to believe that a student has committed a violation of the disciplinary policy, or the student has in his/her possession or in his/her vehicle evidence that the student committed a violation of the disciplinary policy, the school administrator may search the vehicle parked on school grounds.

 

The following regulations must be observed. Failure to do so may result in the loss of this privilege.

a. Each student who drives a motor vehicle to school must register the motor vehicle in

    the A or B House Office.

b. Students driving motor vehicles to school must park in the student parking area in lined

    spaces.

c. Students must obey one-way signs as they exit from the parking lot.

d. Rules of common courtesy and safe driving must be observed at all times when driving

    on school grounds.

e. All motor vehicles should be locked after arrival in the morning.

f. Motor vehicles are not to be used for any purpose during the school day without

   administrative authorization.

g. During the school day, students are not to return to the parking area unless authorized

    to do so by a school administrator.

h. Student motor vehicle registration permits may be obtained from A or B House offices.

   Only one permit per person per year.

i. All bicycles should be parked on the bicycle rack at the rear of B House. No bicycles

               are allowed inside the school building

 

Note: Any vehicle in the student parking lot without a registration sticker, or any student vehicle parked in any area other than the student parking lot will be towed at the student’s expense unless approved by their Assistant Principal. The privilege of parking in the school parking lot can be revoked for violation of rules other than those pertaining to motor vehicles at the discretion of the administration.

 

VIII. EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES & EVENTS

 

Franklin High School extra-curricular activities and events are an important part of the educational experience for our students, but participation in these activities is a privilege, not a right. The variety of clubs, activities and events is extensive and students are encouraged to become involved in one or more of these opportunities.

 

ELIGIBILITY TO PARTICIPATE IN SCHOOL ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS

Participation in clubs and activities at Franklin High School and attending school-sponsored, school-related events is a privilege afforded to students who remain in good standing.  To participate in school activities, events and clubs, students are expected to maintain good attendance and good grades and demonstrate good behavior and citizenship during school and at school-sponsored events.  Eligibility for participation in activities, events, clubs, awards, scholarships and honorary positions at Franklin High School is limited to students who are currently enrolled in and attending Franklin High School in good standing. Students not meeting these expectations may be excluded or face restricted access at the discretion of the Principal or his designee. 

SCHOOL ACTIVITY & EVENT ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENT

Students who participate in a school activity scheduled outside the school day or on the weekend must be present in school on the day of the event or on the Friday preceding a weekend event. Students must be present for 4 out of the 5 classes in their entirety in order to be considered PRESENT for the purposes of this policy. Certain social functions within the school year may have attendance requirements that differ from those outlined in this policy.  If so, the attendance requirements will be stated in the event contract for the function. Exceptions to this rule must be approved by the Principal and will be granted only under extenuating circumstances.

SCHOOL ACTIVITY & ATHLETIC EVENT BEHAVIOR

Your support and attendance at school functions and athletic events are strongly encouraged.

While in attendance, students must adhere to school policy and demonstrate appropriate behavior and sportsmanship, as stated in the Code of Conduct and the MIAA guidelines. If a student is removed from a function or athletic event (home or away) due to behavioral problems, he or she must meet with the athletic director and an assistant principal during the next school day. After the meeting, the administration reserves the right to administer disciplinary action and restrict the student from attending school functions, activities or athletic events. Some behaviors may warrant a suspension from school.

 

 

SOCIAL EVENT RULES AND REGULATIONS

The Senior Banquet is for Franklin High School seniors ONLY.

 

The Junior Prom is the only formal social event of the year. A Franklin High School junior may bring a guest either from Franklin High School or from another high school. If the guest is from another school, the Franklin High School junior and the guest must complete the Franklin High School Junior Prom Guest Form, which requires the guest to obtain his or her school administrator’s signature to verify he or she is in good standing. A guest who is not currently enrolled in school must arrange for a meeting with the principal and be granted permission to attend. Guests must be under 21 years old.

 

The Sophomore Banquet is open to all Franklin High School sophomores. Sophomores may bring Franklin High School freshman, sophomores or juniors as a guest. Franklin High School seniors and students from other schools cannot attend.

 

The Freshman Banquet is open to all Franklin High School freshmen. Freshman may bring Franklin High School freshmen or sophomores as a guest. Franklin High School seniors and juniors and students from other schools cannot attend.

 

Any exception to that policy will be made only by permission of the administration. IN ALL CASES any person who is not a student at Franklin High School must have written permission from the Principal to attend any school function.

 

The freshman and sophomore events will be held at Franklin High School. Outings planned for other locations require the approval of school administration. An out-of state site also requires approval of the School Committee.

 

Dances at the high school will begin at 7:00 p.m. and end at 10:00 p.m. Chaperones for the dances include one high school administrator, the class advisor and six faculty members. Parents are welcomed as additional chaperones, and their attendance is encouraged. Please see social event regulations and contract.

 

Social functions, with few exceptions, are closed affairs, run exclusively for Franklin High School students. The hours of these social functions are from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Dances will be held for Franklin High School students only.

 

No one will be allowed to enter a dance after 8:00 p.m. unless he/she has written permission beforehand from a high school administrator. When a student leaves the dance, he/she will not be allowed to return. All outer jackets will be checked upon entering the dance. There will be no smoking on school property at any time. Violations are subject to a fine. Any student found in an unauthorized area during a dance or social function will be removed and will face further disciplinary action.

Misconduct on the part of any student will result in:

a. Notification of parent

b. Expulsion from dance

c. Possible suspension from school or other school-based discipline

d. Loss of privilege to attend future school events

SOCIAL EVENT CONTRACT

The Franklin High School (name of event) is a school-sponsored event; therefore, all rules and regulations relating to the Franklin High School Code of Conduct will be enforced.  The purchase of a Franklin (name of event) ticket for yourself and signing below indicates your understanding of, and your responsibility to, comply with the following rules:

 

·         All students and guests must arrive between 7 and 7:30 p.m. No one will be admitted to the Franklin Junior Prom after 7:30 p.m.

·         All students and guests are expected to stay until 11 p.m. If a student would like to leave early, he or she must meet with the Franklin High School administration before leaving. Parents will be called and notified.

·         No use or possession of alcohol or drugs will be tolerated.

·         No student will be allowed to attend the event who is under the influence of or in possession of alcohol or any other drug. The Franklin High School administration, the Franklin School Resource Officers and/or detail officers will make this determination. (One drink will constitute being under the influence.)

·         Students who violate these alcohol/drug regulations will be removed from the prom and referred to the Franklin administration. Parents will be called to pick up their son/daughter.

·         If a member of your party is under the influence or in possession of alcohol/drugs, all members of the party will be referred to the Franklin High School administration.

·         Any infraction of other school regulations that are normally grounds for suspension or expulsion will be strictly enforced.  Under these circumstances, parents will also be called to pick up their son/daughter.

·         Franklin students and/or parents, relatives, friends and/or guests of Franklin students are NOT allowed to reserve hotel rooms the evening of prom. 

**Any student suspended for any reason, as a result of unacceptable behavior at the Senior Banquet, will not be allowed to attend graduation or go through the graduation ceremony.

 

 

Please remember, this is a special occasion.  You are expected to conduct yourself in a way that reflects the special nature of this class event.  ALL STUDENTS ATTENDING THE EVENT MUST BE IN SCHOOL ALL DAY ON THE DATE OF THE EVENT.  NO DISMISSALS OR TARDIES WILL BE ALLOWED.

 

I have read the above regulations carefully and understand them. I understand that I am responsible for the behavior of my guest.

 

For the Junior Prom: A NON-FRANKLIN HIGH SCHOOL GUEST MUST COMPLETE A “PROM GUEST CONTRACT”, WHICH REQUIRES A SIGNATURE FROM THE STUDENT’S SCHOOL ADMINISTRATOR AND THE FHS PRINCIPAL. A Non-Franklin High School Guest must be a current high school student. The Principal reserves the right to make exceptions.

STUDENTS IN LEADERSHIP POSITIONS

Students in leadership positions -- class or club officers, elected student government representatives, team captains or co-captains -- will lose their positions for one year if they are in violation of the Drug and Alcohol Policy either in or out of school, if they become involved in serious violations of the law, or if they demonstrate chronic or serious behavioral issues in school. The leadership rule follows the same principles as the school’s Drug and Alcohol Policy in regard to the principle of “reasonable suspicion” not “probable cause”; therefore, anyone smelling of alcohol or marijuana, or behaving in a manner that would indicate ingestion of drugs or alcohol, is subject to the policy.

ELIGIBILITY FOR HONORARY POSITIONS

Students elected to honorary positions in the school such as Class or Student Council officer, member of the National Honor Society or captain of athletic teams must abide by the academic eligibility code of no more than one course failure per term. Additionally, those who conduct themselves in such a way at or outside school for a violation of the discipline code, drug/alcohol policy, or who are habitually tardy, absent, or dismissed from school may be removed from honorary positions. Eligibility for honorary positions at Franklin High School is limited to students who are currently enrolled in and attending Franklin High School in good standing.

COMMENCEMENT ACTIVITIES

An invitation to participate in commencement and senior week activities is extended to students in good standing and eligible to receive a diploma or certificate of attainment. This privilege is offered to students who have maintained a positive image for Franklin High School, upheld ethical standards in the community and school and whose conduct is in keeping with the guidelines of behavior established by the Franklin School Department.

GRADUATION CEREMONY

PLEASE NOTE THAT PARTICIPATION IN THE GRADUATION CEREMONY IS A PRIVILEGE AND NOT A RIGHT. The Principal has the authority to withhold this privilege for inappropriate behavior.

1. Participation in the graduation ceremony shall be only for those students who have

    successfully completed all requirements for graduation by the last school day for Seniors and

    who have satisfied all financial obligations to the school within five school days after senior  

    dismissal day.

2. Per Department of Education policy, all students must pass required parts of the Massachusetts

    Comprehensive Assessment System test (MCAS) in order to receive a diploma from Franklin  

    High School.

3. The last school day for seniors shall be established by the committee in accordance with

    Massachusetts Regulations (603 CMR 27.03).

4. The date of the graduation ceremony shall not be more than 12 days before the last day of

    school (Ch.71, s.4). The actual date will be established by the Committee; the most preferred

    date being the first Friday in June.

5. The ceremony will take place in the gymnasium at 5:00 PM.

6. The names of all graduates (including those not in attendance for whatever reason) shall be

    announced during the Graduation Ceremony when the diplomas are presented.

ACADEMIC AWARDS

Awards for Academic Excellence are presented each year at Franklin High School to seniors who have the highest grade averages for their four years in the field of Art, Business, English, World Language, Music, Reading, Math, Social Studies, Health, Physical Education, Technology Education and Family and Consumer Sciences. Academic Awards to recognize high achievement in the junior year take the form of the College Book Awards at Class Day Exercises. Information about these is available in the Guidance Office.

 

IX. INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETICS

ATHLETICS

At Franklin High School, achievement and citizenship are of primary importance. In the classroom, the student is expected to put forth his/her best effort and to cooperate with teachers. It is a privilege to represent Franklin High School on the athletic field. It is expected that athletes have met the citizenship and achievement requirements and have demonstrated that they are the most skillful players at the school.

 

Athletes are responsible for being on time to school and classes, completing all class and homework assignments, making up schoolwork immediately after an absence and attending detention the day it is assigned.

 

Franklin High School is a member of the Hockomock League, which consists of Canton, Foxboro, King Philip, Mansfield, North Attleboro, Oliver Ames, Sharon, and Stoughton. Our teams compete throughout the year in the following team sports:

 

Fall Sports -

Cheerleading, cross country, field hockey (varsity, j.v., freshman), football (varsity, j.v., freshman,) golf, soccer (varsity, j.v., freshman - boys and girls), volleyball (varsity, j.v., freshman)

 

Winter Sports -

Basketball (varsity, j.v., freshman), cheerleading, hockey (varsity, j.v.) wrestling (varsity, j.v.), indoor track & field (boys and girls), swimming (boys and girls)

 

 

Spring Sports –

Baseball (varsity, j.v., freshman), softball (varsity, j.v., freshman), tennis (girls and boys), track & field (boys and girls), lacrosse (boys and girls)

 

Athletic Award System

Every athlete who participates on a team will receive an honor certificate.

 

Varsity Awards:                        First Season Letter & Pin

Second Season Gold Bar

Third Season Plaque

Fourth Season 4-year Trophy

 

Note: An athlete who is removed from a team, or chooses to quit a team during the season, will receive no award or recognition.

 

WORLD OF DIFFERENCE PLEDGE

Franklin High School believes in the “World of Difference Pledge.” All Hockomock league schools and FHS athletes have endorsed this pledge by signing the athletic consent form and agree with the pledge which states “by signing this contract, I pledge from this day onward to do my best to interrupt prejudice and to stop those who, because of hate, would hurt, harass or violate the civil rights of anyone. I will try at all times to be aware of my own biases against people who are different from myself. I will ask questions about cultures, religion, and races that I don’t understand. I will speak out against anyone who mocks, seeks to intimidate or actually hurts someone of a different race, religion, ethnic group or sexual orientation. I will reach out to support those who are targets of harassment. I will think about specific ways my school, other students, and my community can promote respect for people and create a prejudice free zone. I firmly believe that one person can make a world of difference and that no person can be an “innocent bystander” when it comes to opposing hate. I recognize that respect for individual dignity, achieving equality and opposing anti-Semitism, racism, ethnic bigotry, homophobia, or any other form of hatred is a non-negotiable responsibility of all people.”

MIAA MISSION STATEMENT

The ideals of good sportsmanship, ethical behavior, and integrity should permeate all interscholastic athletics in our community. In perception and practice, good sportsmanship shall be defined as those qualities of behavior which are characterized by generosity and concern for others. Our athletic fields should be the laboratory to produce good sports reflecting “fair play” in every aspect of life.

ELIGIBILITY

To be a participant in athletics, a student must pass all courses with the exception of one at the end of the last marking period. Students must pass all but one course in the preceding year and fourth quarter to be eligible for a fall team.  Incomplete marks do not count until they are made up, and students must make up all work to be eligible.

 

A student who has been ruled ineligible in a given season may not return to the team in that season of play.

 

A transfer pupil is ineligible for varsity athletics for one year unless there is a change of residence by his/her parents. Pupils who have passed their 19th birthday previous to September 1 are ineligible thereafter.

 

A pupil is eligible for only eight total semesters after he/she enters grade 9 at Franklin High School. If the student goes to school for ten days in any semester, it counts as a whole semester. Eligibility rules are effective on the day report cards are issued. There are other rules that apply to special cases. For further information, please contact the athletic director.

 

Students who meet these eligibility requirements may try out for any team sport after having passed a physical examination given by the school doctor. No student may practice or compete without passing this physical examination within the past 13 months.

1. Drugs and Alcohol: During the season or practice or play, or at any time during the year, a

    student shall not, regardless of the quantity, use or consume, possess, buy/ sell or give away   

    any beverage containing alcohol, any marijuana or any other controlled substance. It is not a

    violation for a student to be in possession of a legally defined drug specifically prescribed for

    the student’s own use by his/her doctor.

 

   Minimum Penalties: as established by the MIAA and voted by the Franklin School Committee.

 

    First Violation: When the Principal confirms, following an opportunity for a student to be  

    heard, that a violation occurred, the student shall lose eligibility for the next consecutive  

    interscholastic contest totaling 25% of all interscholastic contests in that sport. No exception is

    permitted for a student who becomes a participant in a treatment program. It is recommended

    that the student be allowed to remain at practice for the purpose of rehabilitation. A decimal

    part of an event will be truncated. i.e. All fractional part of an event will be dropped when

    calculating 25% of the season.

 

    Second and Subsequent Violations: When the Principal confirms, following an opportunity

    for the student to be heard, that a violation occurred, the student shall lose eligibility for the

    next consecutive interscholastic contests totaling 60% of all interscholastic contests in that

    sport. All decimal part of an event will be truncated. i.e. All fractional part of an event will be

    dropped when calculating 60% of the season. If the second or subsequent violation the student

    of his/her own volition becomes a participant in an approved chemical dependency program or

    treatment program, the student may be certified for reinstatement in MIAA activities after a

    minimum of 40% of events. The director or counselor of a chemical dependency treatment

    center must issue such certification. A decimal part of an event will be truncated. i.e. All

    fractional parts of an event will be dropped when calculating 40% of the season.

 

    Penalties shall be cumulative each academic year. If the penalty is not completed during the

    season of violation, the penalty shall carry over to the student’s next season of actual

    participation, which may affect the eligibility status of the student during the next academic

    year.

 

2. Tobacco: Smoking and use of chewing tobacco will not be tolerated.

 

    Consequence:                       1st offense; suspended from squad for one week.

2nd offense; dropped from squad.

 

3. Attendance: No athlete may compete in an athletic event if that athlete has not been in

    attendance at school on the day of the event. This requirement includes being present on

    Friday for weekend athletic events. In addition, athletes must be present for 4 out of the 5

    classes in their entirety in order to be considered PRESENT for the purposes of this

    policy. Exceptions shall only be in extreme cases and will be done through

    the Assistant Principal.

 

4. Outside teams: No member of any school team will be allowed to participate in two contact

    sports for the same season, for example, hockey and football. Any violation of this rule will

    result in the student being dropped from the squad.

 

5. Discipline: If any athlete receives a technical suspension or an out-of-school suspension,

    he/she will be suspended from all games and practices until the suspension has been

    completed and a parent, athlete, administrator conference has been completed. The earliest

    possible athletic participation is on the next school day after the suspension has taken place.

6. Dismissing a Team Captain: Any captain, who in the judgment of the coaches of that               particular sport, is not conducting himself/herself in the best interest of the team may be dismissed from his/her captaincy, subject to the approval of the Athletic Director and Principal or Assistant Principal.  The coach will make a report in writing to the Athletic Director in making the recommendation for the dismissal of a captain.

 

7. Practice sessions: Attendance will be taken at all sessions. Anyone who is late for practice

    must bring a note stating the time he/she left the person who detained him/ her. If possible,

    notify your coach in advance if you are going to be late. If it will be necessary for you to be

    absent from a practice for reasons other than absence from school, bring a note in advance

    from the person requesting your absence. Daily attendance will be checked by each coach. The

    athlete is advised to make all nonschool appointments, such as dentist or doctor, on Saturday if

    possible. Unexcused absences and tardiness will not be tolerated and will result in the athlete

    being dropped from the squad.

 

8. Insurance: The school insurance does not cover the cost for prescriptions. Please note that this

    includes any athletic injuries.

 

9. Training rules for team members will be posted in the locker room, and explained to those

    participating by their respective coach.

 

10. Curfews may be imposed by coaches.

 

11. If it is necessary for the athlete to drop from the squad for any reason, he/she should show

      proper respect by telling the coach immediately.

 

12. Equipment: Students will be responsible for all equipment issued to them and lost equipment

      will be paid for at the Main Office.

 

13. Stealing will not be tolerated. Unauthorized use and possession of athletic equipment will be

      subject to disciplinary action and possible suspension from the team.

 

14. The professional staff will be responsible for reporting violations of athletic policies.

 

15. Coaches are always ready to assist athletes with any problems.

 

If there are any questions about these or any other policies or procedures related to the athletic program, please contact the athletic director at 508-541-2100.

 

 

 

X. FEDERAL, STATE & LOCAL REGULATIONS

 

ABUSE PREVENTION (“209A” ORDERS)

An Abuse Prevention (“209A”) Order is a civil court order that seeks to provide protection from physical or sexual harm caused by force or threat of harm from another individual. When Abuse Prevention (“209A”) Orders are in place between students, possibly calling for no contact between the students, the Franklin High School Administration will notify the local police, if and when, that order appears to have been violated. Police officers are required under the law to immediately arrest the defendant if there is probable cause to believe that the defendant has violated the order.

 

FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS

PROCEDURES FOR REPORTING CHILD ABUSE/NEGLECT

Massachusetts General Law Chapter 119. section 51A states that:            

"...who, in his professional capacity shall have reasonable cause to believe that a child under the age of eighteen years is suffering serious physical or emotional injury resulting from abuse inflicted upon him including sexual abuse, or from neglect, including malnutrition, or who is determined to be physically dependent upon an addictive drug at birth, shall immediately report such condition to the department by oral communication and by making a written report within 48 hours after such oral communication."

 

·     By virtue of our jobs as educators, we are mandated reporters. We are required to notify the Department of Social Services (DSS) whenever we have reasonable cause to suspect any kind of abuse.

 

·     The mandated reporter is exonerated from filing with DSS if he/she immediately notifies his/her supervisor, in this case building principal, who then becomes responsible for notifying DSS. The Principal/Designee will also notify the Director of Pupil Personnel Services by phone before filing a 51A.

 

·     Mandated reporters are absolutely immune to any liability, civil or criminal for filing a report of suspected abuse. DSS maintains confidentiality of the reporter.

 

·     Complete DSS form and send one copy to the Pupil Personnel Services Office.

 

·     Principal/Designee will contact administrator of the building where any siblings attend school before 51A is filed.

 

·     Building personnel are encouraged to meet to discuss case and to gather data/documentation.

 

Franklin Public School educators who suspect a child is being abused or neglected shall report the following information to the principal:

 

1. Name and address of child and parent (or guardian)                                                

 

2. Child's gender    

 

3. Nature and extent of the child's injuries, abuse, or neglect                               _____

 

4. Any evidence of prior injuries, abuse or neglect                                             _____

 

 

5. Action, if any, taken to treat, shelter, or assist the child                                  _____

 

 

6. Name of person or persons making the report                                                         _____

 

 

7. Other pertinent information                                                                                                   

 

 

8. DSS Contact                                                                                                                                   

 

9. Reported by                                                        Date                                        Time           _____

 

__________________________________________________________________________

 

 

DSS Whitinsville               Phone:  508-929-1000            Fax: 508-929-1100 

185 Church Street             Director:  Corine Contarino

Whitinsville, MA 01588

 

 

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Department of Social Services

 

REPORT OF CHILD(REN) ALLEGED TO BE SUFFERING FROM

SERIOUS PHYSICAL OR EMOTIONAL INJURY BY ABUSE OR NEGLECT (51A)

 

Massachusetts law requires an individual who is a mandated reporter to immediately report any allegation of serious physical or emotional injury resulting from abuse or neglect to the Department of Social Services by oral communication. This written report must then be completed within 48 hours of making the oral report and should be sent to the appropriate Department office.

 

Please complete all section of this form. If some data is unknown, please signify. If some data is uncertain, place a question mark after the entry.

 

DATA OF CHILDREN REPORTED

Name

Current Address

Gender

Age/ Date of Birth

 

 

Male Female

 

 

 

Male Female

 

 

 

Male Female

 

Siblings         Name

Current Address

Gender

Age/ Date of Birth

 

 

Male Female

 

 

 

Male Female

 

 

 

Male Female

 

 

DATA ON MALE GUARDIAN PARENT

 

Name:                                                                                                                                                 

             First                                                               Last                                           Middle                                                          

 

Address:                                                                                                                       ________________

                Street & Number                              City/Town                       State                              Zip Code

 

Telephone Number:                                                                                 Age: _________________________

 

DATA ON FEMALE GUARDIAN PARENT

 

Name:                                                                                                                          ________________

             First                                                               Last                                                                         Middle

 

Address:                                                                                                                                   _______

                Street & Number                              City/Town                        State                            Zip Code

 

Telephone Number:                                                                                 Age:                            _______

 

DATA ON REPORTER / REPORT

 

Report Date:                                                                                   □ Mandatory Report           □ Voluntary Report

 

Reporter’s Name:                                                                                       

                                 First                                      Last                                                        

 

(If the reporter represents an institution, school, or facility, please indicate)

  

Reporter’s Address/School Address:

 

                                                                                                                                                _______

  Street & Number                                                    City/Town                         State                Zip Code

 

 

Telephone Number:                                                                                                                              

 

Has reporter informed caretaker of report?          Yes              No

 

 

 

BULLYING/CYBERBULLYING PREVENTION: VISION, MISSION AND

POLICY STATEMENTS

Vision

Franklin High School, in partnership with our students and community members, will create a learning and working environment that is free of bullying, cyberbullying and/or bullying behaviors.

 

Mission

Franklin High School is committed to eliminating bullying, cyberbullying and/or bullying behaviors. All students and staff deserve the opportunity to work and learn in a caring environment of respect and trust in which they are supported. We strive to create a school culture through the education of our staff, students and parents/guardians in which each individual feels physically and emotionally safe, accepted and treated with dignity.

 

Policy

In accordance with Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 92 of the Acts of 2010, Franklin Middle Schools will not tolerate or accept bullying, cyberbullying and/or bullying behaviors in any form. We will respond to any reported incidents of bullying in a timely manner, investigate and take action as needed.

 

It has long been Franklin High School’s mission to create an atmosphere of “equality, acceptance and respect.”  The best way to combat bullying and similar behaviors is by developing and sustaining a school culture in which faculty and students treat each other respectfully and with compassion.  Additionally, comprehensive education about how to recognize bullying/ cyberbullying and what to do if it occurs provides a safety net and framework for students and families in the event bullying occurs.

 

Franklin High School educates all students on bullying/ cyberbullying as part of its orientation program that takes place during the first two days of the school year.  Students are instructed about the definitions of bullying, how to recognize it, and what to do when it occurs.  Additionally, they are taught about legal implications under the new anti-bullying law.

 

Education continues for all students as a component of the 9th and 10th grade wellness curriculum.  During this mandatory course, students are engaged through the Olweus Bullying Curriculum.  By integrating this research-based curriculum into the wellness education program, it is our hope that we can actively cause a decrease in the number of bullying incidents in our school.

 

Definitions

 

Bullying - the repeated use by one or more students of a written, verbal or electronic expression or a physical act or gesture or any combination thereof, directed at a victim that:

 

(i)                  causes physical or emotional harm to the victim or damage to the victim’s property;

 

(ii)                places the victim in reasonable fear of harm to himself or of damage to his property;

 

(iii)               creates a hostile environment at school for the victim;

 

(iv)              infringes on the rights of the victim at school; or

 

(v)                materially and substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of a school. For the purposes of this section, bullying shall include cyber-bullying.

 

 

Cyberbullying - bullying through the use of technology or any electronic communication, which shall include, but shall not be limited to, any transfer of signs, signals, writing, images, sounds, data or intelligence of any nature transmitted in whole or in part by a wire, radio, electromagnetic, photo electronic or photo optical system, including, but not limited to, electronic mail, internet communications, instant messages or facsimile communications. Cyberbullying shall also include:

 

(i)                  the creation of a web page or blog in which the creator assumes the identity of another person or

           

(ii)                the knowing impersonation of another person as the author of posted content or messages, if the creation or impersonation creates any of the conditions enumerated in clauses (i) to (v), inclusive, of the definition of bullying. Cyberbullying shall also include the distribution by electronic means of a communication to more than one person or the posting of material on an electronic medium that may be accessed by one or more persons, if the distribution or posting creates any of the conditions enumerated in clauses (i) to (v), inclusive, of the definition of bullying.

 

 

Hostile environment - a situation in which bullying causes the school environment to be permeated with intimidation, ridicule or insult that is sufficiently severe or pervasive to alter the conditions of the student’s education.

 

Perpetrator - a student who engages in bullying or retaliation.

 

School grounds - property on which a school building or facility is located or property that is owned, leased or used by a school district, charter school, non-public school, approved private day or residential school, or collaborative school for a school-sponsored activity, function, program, instruction or training.

 

Victim - a student against whom bullying or retaliation has been perpetrated.

 

Retaliation- against a person who reports bullying, provides information during an investigation of bullying, or witnesses or has reliable information about bullying shall be prohibited.  

 

Guidelines for Parents and Students

 

Is this bullying?

 

One time incidents may be deliberately mean or cruel, but they may not be bullying. For behavior to be deemed bullying, it needs to include all of the following elements (MGL Chapter 92, Acts of 2010).

 

  • Must be repeated action(s) by one or more students
  • Must be a written, verbal or electronic expression or a physical act or gesture
  • Must be directed at a victim so that it causes one or more of the following:
    • Physical or emotional harm to the victim;
    • Damage to the victim’s property;
    • Places the victim in reasonable fear of harm to him/herself or of damage to his/her property;
    • Creates a hostile environment at school for the victim;
    • Infringes on the rights of the victim at school; or
    • Disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of a school.

 

When should you report?

 

If you feel that a bullying incident has occurred please collect as much information as possible from your son/daughter and report it to a counselor, administrator, and/or teacher.

 

You should contact the school to inform them of a situation when:

The Situation

What the School Can Do

What the School Cannot Do

Your son/daughter is afraid to see another child at school, or generally afraid to go to school because of an incident

The school may create a safety and support plan for your son/daughter

The school cannot share any discussions or actions taken with other student(s)

Your son/daughter reports to you an incident that occurred at school or outside of school

The school may take steps to ensure the safety of the children involved (see steps on page 7)

The school cannot discuss the steps taken that involve any other student(s)

Your son/daughter reports to you that he/she heard a rumor about a future incident that may occur at school or outside of school

The school may investigate the plausibility of the future incident and take appropriate action

The school cannot share with you their discussions with other student(s)

Your son/daughter reports to you that another student is being bullied at school or outside of school

The school may investigate the situation

The school cannot report back to you any outcome of the investigation

You hear about a school bullying incident from another credible source

The school may investigate the situation

The school cannot report back to you any outcome of the investigation, except for your son/daughters part, if any

Your son/daughter reports to you an incident that occurred via the internet, text messaging, or via any other electronic device(s)

The school may investigate the situation

The school cannot report back to you any outcome of the investigation

 

If you have a question or concern about a disciplinary action taken by the school:

·        Begin by having a conversation with the school administration

·        It is important that our students know that the adults are working collaboratively to solve problems

·        Student(s) and parents may be referred to School Resource Officer

 

Report an Incident of Bullying/Cyberbullying

 

School Response to Reported Bullying/Cyberbullying

 

Administrative Steps:

 

  • Take a complete statement from the student or parent/guardian and/or staff member reporting the incident
  • Speak to other students involved
  • Speak to other relevant adults – teachers, counselors, and/or bus drivers who may have information regarding the incident
  • Make a determination regarding the incident
  • Identify bully/cyberbully and bully/cyberbully-bystanders as appropriate
  • Identify victim(s) as appropriate
  • Include the School Resource Officer(SRO) as appropriate
  • Notify Superintendent, Assistant Superintendent and/or Director of Special Education as appropriate

 

Administrative Actions:

 

If it is determined to be a bullying incident the following administrative actions may take place but not necessarily in the order listed below. 

 

Bully/Cyberbully and Bully/Cyberbully-bystanders:

 

·        Inform student(s) and parents/guardians about the consequences for bullying or cyberbullying in school

·        Have an educational discussion with the student(s) and parents/guardians

·        Inform all relevant adults – teachers, counselors, and/or bus drivers

·        Student(s) may be required to engage in educational activities such as readings, written reflection and/or research about bullying/cyberbullying

·        Student(s) are informed about further consequences if any form of retaliation were to occur

·        Student(s) may be referred to School Adjustment Counselor or School Psychologist

·        Student(s) may be assigned a  progressive disciplinary consequence as outlined in the Code of Conduct  (See Parent/Student Handbook)

Victim(s):

 

·        Have an educational discussion with the student(s) and parents/guardians

·        Establish a safety and support plan with the student(s) and parents/guardians

·        Inform all relevant adults – teachers, counselors, and bus drivers

·        Future follow-up with student(s) and parents/guardians

·        May be referred to School Adjustment Counselor(s)

 

Bullying Web Resources

                                                                                                     
Why does my child get bullied/bully others?  What can I do to help?

http://www.nasponline.org/resources/handouts/bullying template 9_04.pdf

http://www.bullyonline.org/schoolbully/school.htm

http://www.nmsa.org/Research/ResearchSummaries/Bullying/tabid/709/Default.aspx

http://www.byparents-forparents.com/parenting/what-to-do-if-your-child-is-a-bully.htm

http://www.education.com/topic/school-bullying-teasing/

 

Cyberbullying:  What is it?  What can be done?

http://webhost.bridgew.edu/marc/

http://www.nomorebullies.wordpress.com

http://www.stopcyberbullying.org/index2.html

http://www.cyberbullying.us

 

Bullying/Cyberbullying Facts and FAQ’s:

http://www.wiredsafety.org/

http://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/ss/se/bullyfaq.asp

 

Social Networking Safety Tips for Teens and Parents:

http://www.nsteens.org/

http://www.onguardonline.gov/topics/safety-tips-tweens-teens.aspx

http://www.safefamilies.org/socialnetworking.php

 

MA State Law Chapter 92 of the Acts of 2010:

http://www.mass.gov/legis/laws/seslaw10/sl100092.htm

 

Articles on Bullying in Schools:

http://kidshealth.org/parent/emotions/behavior/bullies.html

http://www.tolerance.org/print/magazine/number-10-fall-1996/bully-trap

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

RESPONSE TO BULLYING / CYBERBULLYING FLOW CHART

CORPORAL PUNISHMENT

Corporal Punishment is prohibited by the Franklin Public Schools.

 

Corporal punishment includes but is not limited to the use by any staff member of any type of physical force or contact, physical redirection, verbal abuse or demeaning of an individual student or group of students in a classroom or at a school sanctioned event. Corporal punishment also includes damaging or destroying of a student’s personal property or school property assigned to a student.

 

Upon receipt of a complaint of corporal punishment, the Superintendent of Schools or his/her designee will conduct an investigation in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws.

NON-VIOLENT PHYSICAL CRISIS INTERVENTION

Administration Procedures/Crisis Team Procedures

 

The District Policy Statement

 

Purpose:

 

Each school in the Franklin Public Schools will maintain a Crisis Response Team that will respond to any out-of-control student crisis with an efficient and organized plan. The Crisis Response Team procedures follow all the regulations from the Department of Education (766 Regulations 603 CMR 46.00, Physical Restraint, April 2001). Training and methods of physical restraint used follow the Crisis  Prevention Institute (CPl) program. All staff will be trained regarding this Policy and the Department of Education regulations governing physical restraint  Designated staff will receive additional training and will be designated to serve on the Crisis Response Team in each school.

 

Criteria for Initiation of Crisis Response Team

 

When non-violent crisis interventions are not effective and a student's behavior "poses a threat of imminent serious, physical harm to self or others", non-violent physical intervention procedures/ physical restraint may be used. The intervention uses only the force needed to protect all students and staff. Dangerous behaviors which require this procedure may include: hitting, punching, grabbing, biting, kicking or choking. Non-violent Physical Crisis Intervention/ Physical Restraint is not allowed as a means of punishment, as a response to property destruction, disruption of school order, refusal to comply with a rule or staff directive or verbal threats that do not constitute an imminent threat of serious physical harm. Chemical and/ or mechanical restraints are not permitted, unless explicitly authorized by a physician and approved in writing by the parent or guardian. Seclusion/Isolation restraints are prohibited in public education programs.

 

 

 

 

 

Crisis Response Team Procedures

 

1.                  Teacher/designated student calls the office and notifies office staff of the emergency. Staff at all schools will respond to a common cue phrase established at the training sessions.

2.                  Office calls nurse and designated team members on duty and informs them of emergency location.

3.                  Nurse and team arrive at the location; remove the distressed student to the prearranged time-out location. The Nurse observes and documents.

4.                  The student is held in the time-out area if necessary, using only enough force "to protect." When the student is calm, the team will reorient the student and have the nurse check him or her to establish documentation of no injury. Staff will return the student to the normal schedule if appropriate. (Each building may have different specific plans for procedures noted here.)

 

 

5.                  The building administrator must notify the parents, Director PPS and the Superintendent of Schools immediately.

6                      The team members involved must fill out one Crisis Response Team incident report for each restraint This report must be signed by the team members involved, reviewed and signed by the Principal and must be mailed out within three school working days of the incident to the parents. In the event that the restraint lasted more than 20 minutes, or resulted in serious injury to student or staff member, the school will provide a copy of the written report to the Department of Education within five school days of the incident. A copy of the school's incident reports for the prior thirty days will also be sent. Copies of all incident reports will be sent to the Director PPS and to the Superintendent of Schools.

7.                  Incident reports are confidential records and will be maintained in the Pupil/Personnel Services Office and not in the temporary record maintained in each school.

8.                  Each instance of out-of-control behavior generating an incident report requires a review of the circumstances of the incident. Follow-up procedures will be chosen to prevent a repeated incident and are documented on the incident report form. Each team will review within the building and develop an appropriate intervention plan which may include evaluations, assessments, review of the IEP/504 Plan, independent evaluations etc.

 

Procedures in Maintaining the Crisis Response Team

 

1.         All written procedures must be reviewed annually and must be provided to school staff and parents.

2.         Methods to prevent violence, self-injurious and suicidal behaviors in Franklin include:

·        District-wide programs which teach conflict resolution such as the Open Circle Program

·        "Zero Tolerance" Policy

·        Advisor/Advisee Program

·        School Based Support Teams

·        Student Assistance Program

·        Peer Mediation

·        Extensive Counseling Services provided by School Psychologists, School Adjustment Counselors and Guidance Counselors including anger management groups, social skills groups, self-advocacy skills groups and individual counseling

·        No Place for Hate Program-town-wide program

·        Gay/Straight Alliance

·        Best Buddies

  1. Each building determines the Crisis Response Team members each September and provides them with sixteen hours of training by a CPI certified trainer. Training includes:

·        De-escalation strategies, relationship building, alternatives to the use of non-violent physical interventions

·        Practice of simulated experiences and how to identify signs that may trigger an escalation of emotional responses

·        Demonstration of the team's ability to demonstrate restraint interventions for the instructor

 

4.                  If a parent has a concern or complaint related to any physical restraint, he/she should be directed to communicate with the district's designated contact person (Superintendent of Schools/designee) who will investigate the complaint. The investigation will result in a determination of whether, in the particular circumstances, the district policy and procedures were followed. At the conclusion of the investigation, parents/guardians will be notified in writing of the investigator's conclusions. Parent/Guardian shall be protected by all due process rights as outlined in the district policy governing complaint investigations.

5.                  Each building must maintain a list of the current Crisis Response Team members who have received the sixteen-hour training required by Department of Education regulations, and the schedule of when Crisis Response Team members are to be called.

6.                  Each building must have the incident report forms available to team members, and the designated time-out areas should be agreed to and equipped with necessary materials, such as mats, tissues, medical supplies etc.

DRUG / ALCOHOL POLICY

The District is committed to having “Drug Free Schools.” Recognizing that this goal can only be achieved if the administration has the authority it needs to carry out the Drug/Alcohol policy, the administration follows the principle of “reasonable suspicion” not “probable cause.” Therefore, students smelling of alcohol or marijuana, or behaving in a manner that would indicate possession or ingestion of drugs or alcohol, on Franklin Public School property and at school events, are subject to this policy, and could be asked to submit to a field sobriety test, a search, and/or a breathalyzer test by the Franklin Police. Refusal to do so will necessitate the student’s parents being called, and disciplinary action could follow.

1. Any possession, ingestion, or dispensing of drugs/alcohol must be reported to the Principal or

    designee. Any drugs/alcohol found on the school premises must be reported and turned over to

    the principal or designee.

2. In the case of apparent drug/alcohol violations, the parents of the offending student will be

    notified by the Principal or designee by telephone/certified mail.

3. When a student is found to be in possession of illegal drugs, the Principal shall notify the local

    police immediately. School authorities shall cooperate fully with the police officials.

4. The Principal shall report all instances of drug/alcohol related offenses to the Superintendent

     before the next school day and maintain a log of these offenses noting: date, student name,

     grade, sex, brief description of the offense, action taken, and other comments. The school will

     report names of students only in cases where the drug/alcohol violation involves illegal

     activity, i.e., possession of illegal substance and/or intent to sell or distribute.

5. In addition, the Administration will comply with any appropriate Massachusetts General Laws

    as well as MGL C272, S40A, Alcoholic Beverages in Schools, which states in part: “Whoever

    gives, sells, delivers or has in his possession any alcoholic beverage, except for medicinal

    purpose, in any public school building, or on any premises used for public school committee

    or other public board or officer, shall be punished by imprisonment for no more than thirty

    days or by a fine of not more than one hundred dollars, or both....”

6. Suspected drug abuse-related violations shall be reported to the School Nurse. The Nurse shall

    examine these students and advise the Principal concerning her findings.

7. INFRACTIONS:

a). Possession of drugs with intent to sell or distribute.

b). Possession of drugs, drug-related equipment or alcohol.

c). Ingestion of drugs or alcohol.

8. Consequences:

·        Notification of parent

·        Notification of law enforcement officials

·        Immediate suspension from school and possible expulsion/exclusion from school

·        Disciplinary hearing with the Principal

DISCRIMINATION/HARASSMENT (Chapter 76S.5)

The Franklin Public School Department is committed to equal educational opportunity for all students and members of the school community without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, or handicap in all aspects of employment and education. The members of the school community include the School Committee, administration, staff, students, and volunteers working in the schools

 

The Franklin Public School Department is also committed to maintaining a school environment free of harassment based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, or handicap. The Franklin Public School Department expects all members of the school community to conduct themselves in an appropriate and professional manner with concern for the students.

 

Harassment on the basis of sex, color, religion, national origin, age, sexual orientation, and handicap in any form will not be tolerated. Such harassment includes unsolicited remarks, gestures or physical contact, display or circulation of written materials or pictures derogatory to either gender or to racial, ethnic, religious, age, sexual orientation or handicapped individuals or groups.  Harassment also includes, but is not limited to, cyberbullying, inappropriate texting, using cell phones to videotape, record and/or distribute inappropriate images and posting harassing messages or images on the internet.

 

Any violation shall be brought to the attention of the principal as soon as possible. The principal will conduct an investigation and take action consistent with the disciplinary policy and procedures outlined in this handbook. This may include suspension and the notification of law enforcement agencies.

 

Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 76, Section 5

No person shall be excluded from or discriminated against in admission to a public school of any town, or in obtaining the advantages, privileges and courses of study of such public school on account of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, or sexual orientation. (Dec. 10, 1993).

 

HATE CRIMES

The Franklin Town Council has adopted Resolution 96-135.

Be it resolved by the Town Council:

 

1. That the Town of Franklin declares a zero tolerance policy for all hate crimes in the form of

    any overt action motivated by bigotry and bias, including a threatened, attempted, or

    completed overt act motivated by racial, religious, ethnic, handicap, gender, or sexual

    orientation prejudice, or which otherwise deprives or seeks to interfere with or disrupt the

    exercise of a person’s constitutional rights by threats, intimidation or coercion.

2. That the Town of Franklin’s public officials and officers be charged to pursue such policy by

    fully applying the powers of enforcement established under the Massachusetts General Laws

    at Chapter 22C @ 32; Chapter 265, S37 and S39; and Chapter 266, S127A; and Chapter 272.

HAZING REGULATIONS

Ch. 269., S 17 Crime of Hazing: Definition: Penalty

Whoever is a principle organizer or participant in the crime of hazing, as defined herein, shall be punished by a fine of not more than three thousand dollars or by imprisonment in a house of correction for not more than a year, or both fine and imprisonment.

 

The term “hazing” as used in this section and in sections eighteen (18) and nineteen (19), shall mean any conduct or method of initiation into any student organization, whether on public or private property, which willfully or recklessly endangers the physical or mental health of any student or other person. Such conduct shall include whipping, beating, branding, forced calisthenics, exposure to the weather, forced consumption of any food, liquor, beverage, drug or other substance, or any other brutal treatment or forced physical activity which is likely to adversely affect the physical health or safety of any such student or other person, or which subjects such student or other person to extreme mental stress, or extended isolation.

 

Not withstanding any other provisions of this section to the contrary, consent shall not be available as a defense to any prosecution under this action. Added by S.1985, c.536, amended by St. 1987, c.665.

 

Any student who takes part in the organization of or who is a participant in the crime of hazing shall be suspended from school and the club, event, or activity to which the hazing was related and from all other clubs, events, or activities in which he/she is a participant.

 

In addition, the incident and name of student(s) will be reported to the Franklin Police Department for investigation and prosecution.

 

This policy is disseminated in the following manner:

 

1. It is mailed to parents to read and review. A signed receipt must be returned to Franklin High

    School on the opening day of school.

2. Each coach/captain and each advisor/club president must present and review the hazing law at

    the beginning of the season/activity. A form which certifies this review is signed by both the

    coach/advisor and captain/president and is then submitted to the principal.

3. All signed forms and coach/advisor forms are kept on record in the principal’s office.

 

HEAD INJURIES AND CONCUSSION IN EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

It is the policy of the School Committee to comply with the requirements of MGL 111 Section 222 and all other applicable laws and regulations.  Consistent with these requirements, the following rules will apply:

 

At or before the start of each sport, club or band season, all students who plan to participate in extracurricular activities shall complete and submit to the coach, athletic director or band director a current permission form, athletic physical examination form and a signed MIAA form.  The physical examination form must include a comprehensive medical history with up-to-date information relative to concussion history, any head, face or cervical spine history and any history of co-existent concussive injuries.  Any student with a history of concussive, head, face or cervical spine injury must provide a current medical clearance and authorization signed by the treating physician to compete in the extracurricular or athletic activity

 

Any student, who during a practice or competition sustains a head injury or suspected concussion, or exhibits signs and symptoms of a concussion, shall be removed from the practice or competition immediately and may not return to the practice or competition that day.

 

The student shall not return to play unless and until the student provides medical clearance by his/her treating physician that he is symptom-free and medically able to participate in the activity.  The District may seek parental permission to speak with the physician in order to clarify the student’s medical condition and to gather additional information.  The District reserves the right to determine that a student may not safely participate in an athletic activity.

 

LEGAL REFERENCE:  MGL 111 Section 222; 105 CMR 201.000

Adopted by School Committee 7/12/11

File:  JJN

 

EDUCATIONAL SERVICES IN THE HOME OR HOSPITAL

It is the policy of the School Committee to comply with the requirements of state regulations regarding the obligation of the Franklin Public Schools to provide educational services to a student who is confined to the home or hospital for medical reasons for a period of not less than fourteen school days in a school year.  The intent of the regulation is to provide students receiving a publicly-funded education with the opportunity to make educational progress even when a physician determines that the student is physically unable to attend school.  Home/hospital educational services are not intended to replicate the total school experience.  The number of tutoring hours provided to the student will be based upon the Districts recommendations of what is required to minimize educational loss and taking into account the medical needs of the student.  The District determines if credit will be awarded for work completed during tutoring.

 

If a chronic or acute medical condition that is not temporary in nature appears likely to adversely impact a student’s educational progress, the Building Principal and/or his or her designee will initiate a referral to determine eligibility for special education services.

 

The District requires students who seek home/hospital instruction to provide the Building Principal with a Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Physician’s Statement form (form 23R/3) that is completed and signed by the Student’s attending physician.  The District may seek parental permission to speak with the physician in order to clarify the student’s medical availability to receive educational services, to gather additional information and to develop a transition plan to return the student to a school setting.  Students who do not provide a fully-completed and signed form will not be provided with tutoring.

 

LEGAL REFERENCE:  603 CMR 28.03(3)(c)

Adopted by School Committee  7/12/11

File:  JKG

HOME SCHOOLING

The Massachusetts General Law requires the Franklin School Committee to determine that a Home Schooling program meets with the minimum standards established for public schools in the Commonwealth prior to approving such a program.

 

When a parent or guardian of a student below the age of 16 wants to establish a home-based educational program for his/her child, the following procedures shall be followed in accordance with the law:

 

Prior to removing the child from public school:

 

The parent/guardian must submit written notification of establishment of the home-based program to the appropriate administrator 14 days before the program is established, and resubmit notification on an annual basis as long as the child or children are being educated in a home-based environment.

 

The parent/guardian must certify in writing, on a form provided by the district, the name, age, place of residence, and number of hours of attendance of each child in the program.

 

The Superintendent shall give the notice to produce records required by law if there is probable cause to believe the program is not in compliance with the law. Factors to be considered by the Superintendent or School Committee in deciding whether or not to approve a home education proposal may be:

 

1.      The proposed curriculum and the number of hours of instruction in each of the proposed

subjects.

2.      The capacity of the parents to teach the children.

3.      The textbooks, workbooks and other instructional aids to be used by the children and the lesson plans and teaching manuals to be used by the parents.

4.      Periodic standardized testing of the children to ensure educational progress and the attainment of minimum standards.

 

A student being educated in a home-based program within the district may have access to public school activities of an extra-curricular nature (e.g. sports, clubs) with the approval of the Superintendent.

 

The district reserves the right to allow enrolled students to have precedence or priority over the home-schooled student with regard to placement on sports teams and activities that have limited enrollment. With approval of the Superintendent or designee in consultation with the Principal, a home-schooled student may participate in sports teams and activities that have limited enrollment provided that he or she does not displace and enrolled student.

 

The home-schooled student who accesses Franklin Public Schools athletics or extra-curricular activities is subject to the following provisions that are consistent with MIAA guidelines:

 

  • Signed Franklin Public School handbook release form must be on file with the home school plan, acknowledging compliance with all Franklin Public Schools’ rules and policies including MIAA guidelines.
  • A home-schooled student who is determined to be eligible for High School athletics shall submit quarterly progress reports for review by the High School Principal on or before the dates established by high school for report card distribution. Progress reports shall be submitted in a format that indicates clearly whether the home-schooled student has passed or failed each course identified under the approved home-schooled plan
  • The home-schooled student is subject to all Franklin High School eligibility standards as outlined in the student handbook and MIAA guidelines.

 

Home-schooled students are not eligible to attend/participate in social events (e.g. school dances, prom, senior all-night party) that are not open to the public and that are intended for enrolled Franklin Public School students only.

 

Home-schooled students may not participate in specific classes or courses offered during the school day that are not open to the public and that are intended for enrolled Franklin Public School students only.

 

Home-schooled students may not participate in specific classes or courses offered during the school day that are not open to the public and that are intended for enrolled Franklin Public School students only.

 

A Home Schooled student is not eligible for a Franklin High School diploma.

 

REFS:                          MIAA Handbook

LEGAL REFS:             M.G.L. 69: ID; 76:1, Care and Protect of Charles Care and Protection of Charles – MASS. Supreme Judicial Court 399 Mass. 324 (1987)

File: IHBG

 

Reviewed, Revised, Accepted by the School Committee 10-26-10

 

HOME SCHOOLING GUIDELINES

The General Laws of the Commonwealth is defined and serves as the base of our work with parents who wish to provide home education to their child(ren). The following guidelines will assist the parent and the school in meeting state requirements.

 

Parents are required to seek approval before beginning a program of home education for their children. The School Committee delegates the approval of home instruction to the Superintendent.

 

The school district may, at its discretion, grant automatic approval of all home-schooling proposals establishing, if desired, an annual review process acceptable to parents and school officials.

 

The law allows, but does not require, school officials to ask parents the provide the following:

1.      Information about the parent’s academic credentials or other qualifications;

2.      A description of the proposed educational program/curriculum;

3.      Access to the kind of educational materials the parents expect to use;

4.      Agreement on no more than one kind of periodic reporting or evaluation.

 

The Franklin Public Schools have chosen to consider all of the above criteria when reviewing home education applications. However, it is important to advise that approval will not be conditioned on requirements that are not essential to the State’s interest in ensuring that all children will be educated. Non-essential requirements include a family’s reasons for home-schooling, social group experience for the child, a two-parent family, report cards, lesson plans, overly frequent evaluation, use of curriculum determined by the school and so forth.

 

The General Laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts cites the following requirements:

 

1.                  “.  .  .Schools shall be taught by teachers of competent ability and good morals; and shall give

instruction and training in”

      orthography                  music                            drawing

      reading                         U.S. History                 arithmetic

      writing                          U.S. constitution                       geography

      English & grammar       citizenship                     health education

      Physical education        good behavior

 

2.                  “In all public elementary and high schools, American history and civics, including the Constitution of the United States, the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights, and in all public schools the Constitution of the Commonwealth and local history and government shall be taught as required subjects for the purpose of promoting civic service and a greater knowledge thereof, and of fitting the pupils, morally and intellectually for the duties of citizenship.”

 

3.                  “Physical education shall be taught as a required subject in all grades for all students in the public schools for the purpose of promoting the physical well-being of such students.”

 

4.                  Home schools are to provide education “equal in thoroughness and efficiency, and in progress made therein, as that in the public school in the same town.”

 

We respect a parent’s desire and right to home educate their child(ren). In addition to complying with the General Laws of the Commonwealth, we desire to work in a very cooperative manner with parents. We invite parents to visit the school Principal for the purpose of establishing such a relationship, even though all of the requirements could be met through the exchange of written communications. We call attention to communication entitled “A Workable Process” developed by Mass. H.O.P.E. The last paragraph states, “It is recommended that the specific evaluation method to be used be discussed in the early stages of the communications between parents and school officials.” We feel such discussion is more effective when done in person rather than through written communication and, therefore, invite the parent to meet with the principal for this purpose.

 

LEGAL REFS.:                        M.G.L. 71:1; 71:2; 71:3; 71:4; 76:1-76:2; 76:3; 119

                                                603 Code Mass. Regulation Section 27.01 (1980)

                                                S.J.C. Care and Protection of Charles 399 Mass. 324 (1987)

File: IHBG-E

TAGGING; PENALTIES; SUSPENSION OF DRIVER’S LICENSE

Massachusetts State Law indicates that whoever sprays or applies paint or places a sticker upon a building, wall, fence, sign, tablet, gravestone, monument or other object or thing on a public way or adjoined to it, or in public view, or on public property, such person known or commonly known as “taggers” and such conduct or activity known or commonly known as “tagging” or other words or phrases associated to such persons, conduct or activity, and either as an individual or in a group, joins together with said group, with the intent to deface, mar, damage, mark or destroy such property, shall be punished by imprisonment in a house of correction for not more than two years or by a fine of not less than fifteen hundred dollars or not more than three times the value of such damage to the property so defaced marked, marred, damaged, or destroyed, whichever is greater, or both fine and imprisonment and shall also be required to pay for the removal or obliteration of such “tagging” or to obliterate such “tagging” provided, however, that when a fine is levied pursuant to the value of the property marred, defaced, marked, damaged or destroyed or where the cost of removal or obliteration is assessed the court shall, after conviction, conduct an evidentiary hearing to ascertain the value of the property so defaced, marked, marred, damaged or destroyed or to ascertain the cost of the removal or obliteration. A police officer may arrest any person for commission of the offenses prohibited by this section

 

without a warrant if said police officer has probable cause to believe that said person has committed the offenses prohibited by this section.

 

Upon conviction for said offense the individual’s driver’s license shall be suspended for one year. If the individual convicted of defacing or vandalizing the real or personal property of another is under the age of sixteen then one year shall be added to the minimum age eligibility for driving.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT

Introduction

It is the goal of the Franklin School Committee to promote a workplace that is free of sexual harassment. Sexual harassment of employees, students, and/or all other individuals conducting business in any Franklin Public School facility, occurring in the workplace or in the settings which employees may find themselves in connection with their employment is unlawful and will not be tolerated by this school district. Furthermore, any retaliation against an individual who has complained about sexual harassment or retaliation against individuals for cooperating with any investigation of a sexual harassment complaint is similarly unlawful and will not be tolerated.

 

Because the Franklin Public School takes allegations of sexual harassment seriously, the Superintendent or his/her designee will respond promptly to complaints of sexual harassment and where it is determined that such inappropriate conduct has occurred, he/ she will act promptly to eliminate the conduct and impose such corrective action as is necessary, including disciplinary action where appropriate.

 

Definition of Sexual Harassment

In Massachusetts, the legal definition for sexual harassment is this:

 

“sexual harassment” means sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and verbal or, physical conduct of a sexual nature when:

 

a.       submission to or rejection of such advances, requests or conduct is made either

      explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of employment or as a basis for

      employment decisions;

or,

b.      such advances, requests or conduct have the purpose or effect of unreasonably

      interfering with an individual’s work performance by creating an intimidating,

      hostile, humiliating or sexually offensive work environment.

 

Under these definitions, direct or implied requests by a supervisor for sexual favors in exchange for actual or promised job benefits such as favorable reviews, salary increases, promotions, increased benefits, or continued employment constitutes sexual harassment.

 

The legal definition of sexual harassment is broad and in addition to the above examples, other sexual oriented conduct, whether it is intended or not, that is unwelcome and has the effect of creating a workplace environment that is hostile, offensive, intimidating, or humiliating to male or female workers may also constitute sexual harassment.

 

While it is not possible to list all those additional circumstances that may constitute sexual harassment, the following are some examples of conduct, which if unwelcome, may constitute sexual harassment depending upon the totality of the circumstances including the severity of the conduct and its pervasiveness:

 

Unwelcome sexual advances – whether they involve physical touching or not;

 

• Sexual epithets, jokes, written or oral references to sexual conduct, gossip regarding

   one’s sex life; comment on an individual’s body, comment about an individual’s sexual

   activity, deficiencies or prowess;

• Displaying sexually suggestive objects, pictures, cartoons;

• Unwelcome leering, whistling, brushing against the body, sexual gestures, suggestive or

   insulting comments;

• Inquiring into one’s sexual experiences; and

• Discussion of one’s sexual activities.

 

Complaints of Sexual Harassment

If any employees, students, and/or individuals conducting business in any Franklin Public School facility believe that they have been subject to sexual harassment, they have the right to file a complaint with the school district. This may be done in writing or orally with the following personnel:

 

Assistant Superintendent of Schools, District Compliance Officer

Central Office, 355 East Central Street

Phone: 508-553-4819

 

Director of Human Resources

355 East Central Street

Phone: 508-553-4810

 

Building Principal and/or Department Director/Manager

 

Sexual Harassment Investigation

When the complaint is received it will promptly be investigated in a fair and expeditious manner, usually not to exceed ten school days. The investigation will be conducted in such a way as to maintain confidentiality to the extent practicable under the circumstances. The investigation will include a private and confidential interview with the person filing the complaint and with the witnesses. The person alleged to have committed sexual harassment will also be interviewed. When the district has completed its investigation, it will, to the extent appropriate inform the person filing the complaint and the person alleged to have committed the conduct of the results of that investigation. A written record will be kept of each investigation and a written report will be issued to the Superintendent of Schools.

 

Disciplinary Action

If it is determined that inappropriate conduct has been committed by an employee, the Superintendent or his/her designee will take such action as is appropriate under the circumstances. Such action may range from counseling to termination of employment, and may include such other forms of disciplinary action, as the Superintendent deems appropriate.

 

State and Federal Remedies

If sexual harassment has occurred, an individual may file a formal complaint with any of the following government agencies set forth below. Using the complaint process of the Franklin Public Schools does not prohibit an individual from filing a complaint with these agencies. Each of the agencies has a short time period of filing a claim (EEOC – 180 days; MCAD – 6 months).

 

The United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)

1Congress Street – 10th Floor

Boston, Massachusetts 02114

(617) 565-3200

 

The Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD)

Boston Office: Springfield Office:

One Ashburton Place, Room 601                                             424 Dwight Street, Room 220

Boston, Massachusetts 02108                                      Springfield, Massachusetts 01103

(617) 727-3990                                                                       (413) 739-2145

 

Massachusetts Department of Education

350 Main Street

Malden, MA 02148

781-388-3300

 

The U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights

222 J.W. McCormack Post Office & Courthouse, 7th Floor

Boston, MA 02109-4557

617-223-9662

 

LEGAL REFERENCES:

M.G.L. 151B, Section 3A ; 603 CMR 26.00

Title VII, Section 703, Civil Rights Act of 1964 as amended (now known as 42 USCS §

2000e-2 )

EEOC Education Amendments of 1972, 20 U.S.C. 1681et seq. (Title IX)

34 CFR Part 106

EXTENDED FIELD TRIPS POLICY

The Franklin Public Schools recognizes that a properly planned, well-conducted and carefully supervised extended field trip may provide a mode of learning which is relevant, challenging and dynamic and which cannot be duplicated in the classroom or extracurricular setting.

 

Extended field trips are trips that require students to be accommodated overnight. All extended field trips will be scheduled after regular school hours, on weekends or during school vacations and shall not interfere with structured.

 

Extended field trips must provide a valuable educational learning experience and be consistent with and reflect district curriculum. The Superintendent or his/her designee will be responsible for determining whether these criteria are met. The cost of extended field trips will not be the responsibility of the school district.

 

Teachers and other school personnel are not permitted to solicit for privately run trips through the school district and in the schools. The School Committee will review only superintendent recommended trips. The School Committee will not review or approve trips that are privately organized and run without recommendation of the superintendent.

 

Attendance on an extended field trip is not a student’s right, but a privilege. All rules and regulations specified in the student handbook will be in effect throughout the trip

 

This policy does not apply to trips required for student participation in school-related tournament competition or contests.

 

I. Trip Approval Process for Extended Field Trips

A. Preliminary Approval

Advisors will develop a trip proposal, which must include educational benefits/

objectives and their relation to Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks and the educational value in relation to the cost.. The proposal shall be presented to the building principal and to the Superintendent for Preliminary Approval. Preliminary approval must be granted prior to the announcement of the trip to students or parents. Preliminary approval authorizes the advisor to determine student and parent interest, to acquire cost information, and generally assess the feasibility of the trip.

B. Formal Approval

The School Committee must have approved the trip before any contractual arrangements are made or any trip-specific fundraising occurs. School Committee approval must be secured at least five (5) months before the proposed extended field trip.

II. Finances

Advisor(s) must use reasonable efforts to arrange for scholarships or alternative funding sources to provide an equal opportunity for students to participate that otherwise would be excluded because of financial hardship.

III. Travel Requirements

A. Students with disabilities shall be provided full and equal opportunity for participation

     in extended field trips.

B. The use of vans or private automobiles for extended field trips is prohibited.

     Late night or overnight trips should use commercial vendors or district transportation.

C. The Advisor(s) must ensure that all U.S. based commercial carriers used are licensed

     by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. (“FMCSA”). No carrier may be

     used for an extended field trips if the carrier has an FMCSA safety rating of

     “conditional” or “un satisfactory.” The contract with the carrier must prohibit the use

     of a subcontractor unless sufficient notice is given to the District to allow verification

     of the subcontractor’s qualifications.

D. Trip itineraries must leave enough time for drivers to rest in conformity with federal

     hour-of-service requirements and common sense.

E. The District shall abide by regulations requiring it to obtain criminal offender record

     information (“CORI”) all persons who may have direct and unmonitored contact with

     students during extended field trips, including chaperones and persons providing

     transportation ser vices.

F. If a student requires the administration of prescription medication during an extended

field trip, the medication shall be administered in a manner consistent with District    policy.

G. Trip cancellation insurance and travel accident insurance must be purchased by all

                 participants on the trip (students, chaperones, and advisors).

H. The superintendent or his/her designee reserves the right to cancel any extended field

     trip up until the time of departure.

 

Legal References: M.G.L. c.71, section 37N

 

Cross Reference: Franklin Public Schools Policy JLCD/Administration of Medication

CLASSROOM OBSERVATION and VISITATION PROCEDURES

In response to your request, we want to make your visit as productive as possible.  Please take a minute to familiarize yourself with the following information.  If you have any questions regarding the information provided, please don’t hesitate to contact your child’s school principal or designee.

 

Setting up a classroom observation:

 

To schedule a visit to a classroom, please call your child’s school principal to schedule a date and time when activities/instruction you are most interested in will be occurring.  When you speak with the school principal, please provide him/her with the following information:

 

1.      Names and roles of the observers.

 

2.      What are you interested in observing in regard to your child’s performance and progress?  Please specify if you are interested in observing a current classroom or a proposed classroom.

 

3.      Are there any related services you are interested in observing, e.g. occupational therapy, speech/language, physical therapy?

 

4.      In order for us to best coordinate the visit, please be able to supply convenient dates and times for you.

 

5.      The length of time of the visit will be predetermined through conversation between you and the building principal/designee.  Please understand that lengthy visits may, at times, interrupt the integrity of the program.  Your child’s right to quality education is important to us as well the educational rights of other students.  You should plan to discuss the length of time you feel is needed to accomplish your observation goal.

 

6.      There may be times during a school day when schedules include activities that may breach another student’s right to confidentiality.  Classroom visits will not be scheduled during these times.  On behalf of all students, please respect the school professionals to make that judgment call. 

 

7.      In order to maintain confidentiality, please understand that no information will be provided about other students and their educational needs, performance, and programs.  There are times when observers may, despite the district’s best efforts, receive information that identifies another student.  Observers will be asked to sign a statement that information about other students will not be disclosed.

 

Observing in the classroom:

As in all times visitors enter a school building, please report to the school office in order to sign in and receive a Visitor’s Pass.  One of our staff will meet you at the office and accompany you throughout the visit.

 

Before your visit, a place in the classroom will be designated for you to sit and observe.  We ask all observers to be sensitive to the following observation criteria:

 

1.      Students can often be curious and easily distracted by visitors.  If there is more than one observer, please do not converse during the observation.  We encourage note-taking to facilitate conversation after the observation.  Please bring with you something on which you can write notes and/or questions.

 

2.      During your visit, you will not be able to talk with the teacher, service providers or students, including your own child.  Their job at that time is to provide instruction/therapy.  However, if you have questions you would like to discuss at a later date, please make arrangements through the building principal or designee.

 

 

Thank you for helping us make your visit and observation as helpful to you and respectful to all as possible.  We appreciate your interest in our classrooms and programs.

 

SERVICES FOR STUDENT WITH DISABILITIES

Section 504

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 prohibits discrimination against persons with a disability in any program receiving federal financial assistance. Section 504 defines a person with a disability as anyone who:

a. has a mental or physical impairment which substantially limits one or more major life

    activities such as caring for one’s self, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing,

    hearing, speaking, breathing, learning and working.

b. has a record of such impairment; or

c. is regarded as having such an impairment.

 

Recent amendments to the Americans With Disabilities Act which also apply to 504 now define “substantially limits” as “materially restricts”.  An impairment, under the ADA Amendments Act of 2008, “that substantially limits one major life activity need not limit other major life activities in order to be considered a disability.”  Also, an impairment that is episodic or in remission is a disability if it would substantially limit a major life activity when active.”

 

The Franklin Public Schools District acknowledges its responsibility under Section 504. to avoid discrimination in policies and practices regarding its personnel and students. No discrimination against any person with a disability shall knowingly be permitted in any program or practices in the school district.

Under Section 504, the school district has the responsibility to identify, evaluate, and if the student is determined to be eligible under Section 504, to afford access to appropriate educational services.

If the parent or person in parental relationship disagrees with the determination made by the professional staff of the school district, he/she has a right to a hearing with an impartial hearing officer. Any questions concerning the implementation of policy and procedures may be directed to:

Section 504 Coordinator

Pupil/Personnel Services Office

Franklin Public Schools

355 East Central Street

Franklin, MA 02038

ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNERS

Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 71A defines an English Language Learner as “a child who does not speak English or whose primary language is not English and who is currently not able to perform ordinary classroom work in English.” As required by Chapter 71A, Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and related federal statutes, educational services for English Language Learners (ELL) are based on the individual needs of the student. Professional staff assesses student needs and develops strategies and interventions and services which will enable the student to acquire language skills and access the educational curriculum.

 

Services provided to English Language Learners are designed to minimize barriers to educational services and extracurricular activities and to provide an appropriate education in the least restrictive learning environment.

 

The Franklin Public Schools is committed to teaching English to students whose primary language is not English. Personnel will provide instructional supports and services to teach language skills to students as rapidly and effectively as possible

 

EDUCATIONAL SERVICES TO STUDENTS IDENTIFIED AS HOMELESS

Section 725 (2) of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, which applies to the Franklin School District, defines homeless children and youths as:

a.       individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence or have a

      primary nighttime residence in a supervised, publicly or privately, operated shelter for

      temporary accommodations (including welfare hotels, congregate shelters, and

      transitional housing for the mentally ill), an institution providing temporary residence

      for individuals intended to be institutionalized, or a public or private place not

      designated for or ordinarily used as a regular sleeping accommodation for human

      beings.

 

This definition includes:

b. children and youth who are sharing the housing of other persons due to loss of housing,

    economic hardship, or a similar reason; are living in motels, hotels, trailer parks, or

    camping grounds due to the lack of alternative adequate accommodations; are living in

    emergency or transitional shelters; are abandoned in hospitals; or are awaiting foster

    care placement;

c. children and youth who have a primary nighttime residence that is a public or private

    place not designed for or ordinarily used as a regular sleeping accommodation for

    human beings;

d. children and youth who are living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings,

     substandard housing, bus or train stations;

e. migratory children (as such term is defined in Section 1309 of the Elementary and

    Secondary Education Act of 1965) who qualify as homeless because they are living in

    circumstances described above; and

f. unaccompanied youth or a youth not in the physical custody of a parent or guardian.

    The McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance Act requires that school

    districts immediately enroll a homeless student, even if they do not have the documents      

    usually required for enrollment, such as school records, record of immunizations,    

    medical records or proof of residency. Homeless youth covered by the Act may also be   

    entitled to other services or program benefits, such as transportation or reduced/free

    lunch.

FOOD SERVICE: CHARGES AND UNCOLLECTED DEBT

Based on guidance issued by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the district recognizes that the school food service account cannot be used to cover the cost of charged meals that have not been paid.

 

Students at the High School and Middle School levels are not permitted to charge a lunch.  Elementary students are permitted to charge up to three meals.  Charges are tracked through the electronic Point of Sale program used by the Franklin Public Schools. 

 

Students who have reached the charging limit will be provided with an “emergency meal”.  Under no circumstances will students be denied food because they lack the funds to pay.  Choices of “emergency meals” include cheese or peanut butter and jelly sandwiches with a piece of fruit and a choice of milk.

 

Students provided with an emergency meal will have the cost of the meal added to their balance and parents/guardians will be notified of such balances on a monthly basis.  Reimbursable meals served shall be claimed based on the eligibility status of the student.  The foodservice department will make every effort to collect unpaid balances and will contact the parents/guardians to identify any extenuating circumstances that might exist within the household.  Thereafter, the foodservice department will track negative balances and report same to the School Business Administrator prior to the close of the school year (June 30th).  The School Business Administrator shall cause a journal entry to be made to charge the uncollected debt to the School budget appropriation. 

STUDENT RECORDS

In January 1975, the State Board of Education adopted regulations pertaining to student records. The development of these regulations, which have the force of law, was mandated by state laws enacted in 1972 and 1974. The regulations apply to all public elementary and secondary schools. They are designed to insure parents’ and students’ rights of confidentiality, inspection, amendment, and destruction of student records, and to assist school authorities in their responsibilities for the maintenance of student records. Under ordinary circumstances, when releasing records, students should allow up to five (5) school days for processing.

 

The parent and student may request to have parts of the record interpreted by a qualified professional of the school, or may invite anyone else of their choosing to inspect or interpret the record with them.

 

Pursuant to Mass. General Laws Chapter 71, Section 34E and Section 23.01(3) of the Massachusetts Student Records Regulations, a parent of a student has the right to inspect his or her child’s student record regardless of the student’s age. Under Section 23.07(2) (a) of the regulations, parents and “eligible students” (those fourteen or older or in a least the ninth grade) have the right upon request to a copy of any information in the student record. However, Section 23.01(3) of the regulations permits a student eighteen or older to limit his or her parent’s right to a copy of some or all of the information in the record by submitting a written request to the principle or superintendent. A copy of such request must be kept in the student record and honored by school officials.

 

The following is a summary of the major parent and student rights regarding their student records, as provided by the Regulations Pertaining to Student Records:

Inspection of Record

The parent, or a student who has entered the ninth grade or is at least 14 years old, has the right to inspect all portions of the student record upon request. The record must be made available to the parent or student no later than two days after the request, unless the parent or student consent to a delay.

 

Parent shall mean a student’s father or mother, or guardian, or person or agency legally authorized to act on behalf of the child in place of or in conjunction with the father, mother, or guardian. This includes a divorced or separated parent, subject to any written agreement between parents or court order governing the rights of such a parent that is brought to the attention of the school principal.

 

The entry of an order or judgment relative to the custody of minor children shall not negate or impede the ability of the non-custodial parent to have access to the academic, medical, hospital or other health records of the child, as he/she would have had if the custody order or judgment had not been entered; provided, however, that if a court has issued an order to vacate against the non-custodial parent or an order prohibiting the non-custodial parent from imposing any restraint upon the personal liberty of the other parent or if nondisclosure of the present or prior address of the child or a party is necessary to ensure the health, safety or welfare of such child or party, the court may order that any part of such record pertaining to such address shall not be disclosed to such non-custodial parent.

 

The parent and student have the right to receive copies of any part of the record although a reasonable fee may be charged for the cost of duplicating materials.

 

Under FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act), Franklin Public Schools must provide notice to parents/guardians that student information can be disseminated publicly. The “Opt-Out” provision in FERPA enables parents/guardians to request that personal information about their child not be disseminated to military recruiters.

 

In order to prohibit the dissemination of personal information, parents, guardians, and students age 18 and over may put a request in writing to the Principal/Franklin High School at any time during the year. At the start of each new school year, written notice will be mailed home with and “Opt-Out” form. Please send the form back to school officials if you would like personal information kept confidential.

 

The preceding is only a summary of some of the more important provisions of the Regulations Pertaining to Student Records that relate to student and parent rights. If more detailed information is desired, a copy of the regulations may be received through the guidance office.

ACCESS TO STUDENT RECORDS FOR NON-CUSTODIAL PARENTS

As required by Massachusetts General Law Chapter 71, Section 34H, a non-custodial parent may have access to the student record in accordance with law and Department of Education Regulations. Any individual who by court order does not have physical custody of the student is considered a non-custodial parent for purposes of M.G.L. 71, & 34H, 603 CMR 23.07 and this policy. This includes parents who by court order do not reside with or supervise the student, even for short periods of time. The school district will follow the law and the regulations developed by the Massachusetts Department of Education to standardize the process by which public schools provide student records to parents who do not have physical custody of their children (“non-custodial parents”).

 

As required by M.G.L. 71, § 34H, a non-custodial parent may have access to the student record in accordance with the following provisions:

1. A non-custodial parent is eligible to obtain access to the student record unless:

a. The parent has been denied legal custody based on a threat to the safety of the student

    or to the custodial parent, or

b. The parent has been denied visitation or has been ordered supervised visitation, or

c. The parent’s access to the student or to the custodial parent has been restricted by a

    temporary or permanent protective order, unless the protective order (or any

    subsequent order modifying the protective order) specifically allows access to the

    information contained in the student record.

2. The school shall place in the student’s record documents indicating that a noncustodial

    parent’s access to the student’s record is limited or restricted pursuant to 603 CMR 23.00.

3. In order to obtain access, the non-custodial parent must submit a written request for the

    student record to the school principal.

4. Upon receipt of the request the school must immediately notify the custodial parent by

    certified and first class mail, in English and the primary language of the custodial parent, that

    it will provide the non-custodial parent with access after 21days, unless the custodial parent

    provides the principal with documentation that the non-custodial parent is not eligible to

    obtain access as set forth in 603 CMR 23.07.

5. The school must delete the electronic and postal address and telephone number of the student

    and custodial parent from student records provided to non-custodial parents. In addition, such

    records must be marked to indicate that they shall not be used to enroll the student in another

    school.

6. Upon receipt of a court order, which prohibits the distribution of information pursuant to

    M.G.L. 71, §34H, the school shall notify the non-custodial parent that it shall cease to provide

    access to the student record to the non-custodial parent.

 

LEGAL REF.: M.G.L. 71:34D; 71:34H; 603 CMR 23.07

Adopted: September 26, 2006

FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY

 

Acceptable Use for Students

 

The Franklin Public Schools shall provide access students to the technology system/network, including access to external networks, for limited educational purposes.  The technology system/network will also be used to provide information to the community, including parents, governmental agencies, and businesses.

 

The Superintendent or his/her designee shall implement, monitor, and evaluate the district’s technology system/network for instructional purposes.  All users shall be required to acknowledge receipt and understanding of all administrative regulations and procedures governing use of technology and shall agree in writing to comply with such regulations and procedures. 

 

When utilizing school sanctioned modes of communication, students, staff, teachers and coaches are responsible for following all applicable laws, regulations, district policies, school rules and codes of conduct.

 

Noncompliance with applicable regulations and procedures may result in suspension or termination of access and/or other disciplinary actions consistent with policies of the Franklin Public Schools.  Violation of law may result in criminal prosecution as well as disciplinary action by the Franklin Public Schools.

 

The Superintendent or his/her designee shall develop and implement administrative regulations, procedures, and user agreements, consistent with the purposes and mission of the Franklin Public Schools as well as with law and policy governing copyright.

 

The Franklin Public Schools shall not be liable for users’ inappropriate use of electronic resources or violations of copyright restrictions, users’ mistakes or negligence, or costs incurred by users.  The Franklin Public Schools shall not be responsible for ensuring the accuracy or usability of any information found on external networks.

 

Reviewed; revised – Adopted 9/22/09

 

 

Franklin Public Schools

Information Technology Acceptable Use Student Agreement Grades 6-12

 

School sanctioned information technology resources are provided for educational purposes. Adherence to the rules is necessary for continued access to the school’s technology resources.

 

Rules for Technology Use:

  • I will respect and protect the privacy of others
  • I will use only assigned accounts
  • I will not view, use or copy passwords, data or networks that are not authorized
  • I will not distribute private information about myself or others
  • I will respect the integrity, availability and security of all electronic resources
  • I will observe all security practices
  • I will report security risks or violations to my teacher or administrator
  • I will not destroy or damage data, network or other resources
  • I will respect and protect the intellectual property of others
  • I will not infringe on copyrights
  • I will not plagiarize
  • I will follow all school rules and the code of conduct in school handbooks
  • I will not harass or cyberbully other students
  • I will not access, transmit, copy or create material that violates the school’s code of conduct (such as messages that are pornographic, harassing, threatening, or discriminatory)
  • I will not use resources to initiate or further acts that are criminal or violate the school’s code of conduct
  • I will not send spam, chain letters or other unsolicited mailings
  • I will not buy, sell, advertise or conduct business unless approved as a school project

 

**Please use the online Contract for Use of Technology**

Contract for Use of Technology

PLEASE SIGN AND RETURN TO TEACHER /FAILURE TO RETURN FORM INDICATES STUDENT DOES NOT HAVE PERMISSION TO ACCESS TECHNOLOGY IN SCHOOL

 

We have reviewed the student agreement and agree to follow it.

 

Student Name: ___________________________________               Date:__________  

 

Signature:_____________________________________________________________

 

Parent/Guardian:__________________________________               Date:___________

 

Signature:______________________________________________________________       

SCHOOL SAFETY ACT (Chapter 380)

When a student is expelled under the provisions of this section, no school or school district within the Commonwealth shall be required to admit such student or to provide educational services to said student. If said student does apply for admission to another school or school district, the superintendent of the school district to which the application is made may request, and shall receive, from the superintendent of the school expelling said student, a written statement of the reasons for said expulsion.

ASBESTOS

In compliance with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Asbestos Hazard Emergency Act (AHERA) inspections of the Franklin Public Schools were performed during 1989 for asbestos-containing materials. All inspection findings and the asbestos management plans have been on file with the Franklin School Department since the initial inspection. Management plans and all other related information are maintained at the Office of the Director of Administrative Service.

 

AHERA requires schools to have asbestos reinspections every three (3) years. Certified Engineering & Testing Company, Inc. (CERTIFIED) performed the three (3) year inspection during April 2007. Complete results of the three (3) year reinspections are on file at the Superintendent’s office.

 

FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT COMPLAINT AND GRIEVANCE

POLICY AND PROCEDURE

Policy

It is the policy of the Franklin Public School District to provide a learning and working environment free from discrimination and harassment. Staff or student complaints of discrimination or harassment based upon sex, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, age, or sexual orientation should be brought to: Discrimination/Harassment

Complaint Coordinator, Franklin Public Schools, Administration Office, 397 East Central

Street, Franklin, MA 02038. The policy and procedures set forth herein shall apply to complaints pursuant to state and federal laws, including: Title VI of the Civil Rights act of 1964; Title IX of the Education Amendment of Act of 1972; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973; the Americans With Disabilities Act; and Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 151B.

 

Procedure

All grievances shall be processed in a fair, expeditious and confidential manner. When a complaint of discrimination or harassment is made, the following investigative and appeal procedures will be followed:

 

Step 1: Discrimination/Harassment Complaint Coordinator

Complaints may be made verbally or in writing to the Coordinator, who has authority to investigate all grievances. Complaints should be made promptly, within a short time after the occurrence, giving rise to the complaint, to assure a prompt investigation and fair resolutions. All complaints will be thoroughly investigated. Both the complainant and the subject of the complaint will be interviewed and given a full opportunity to state their case. Witnesses, if any, will also be interviewed. A record will be kept of each investigation.

 

The complaints will be investigated within a reasonable time, usually not to exceed ten (10) school days after the complaint has been received. Both the complainant and the subject of the complaint will be informed of the result of the investigation, in writing. If the complaint is substantiated, the Coordinator will refer the matter to the proper supervisor or administrator for appropriate disciplinary action. For students, discipline may include a warning or reprimand, in school or out of school suspension, or expulsion from school. Discipline of school staff will be consistent with collective bargaining procedures, if applicable, and may include reprimand, suspension from employment, or employment termination.

 

Step 2: Superintendent

In the event that a complainant or subject of a complaint disputes the results of the investigation, he/she may further appeal to the Superintendent of Schools within ten (10) school days of the Coordinator’s decision. Any request for appeal shall me made in writing. The Superintendent shall meet with the parties to hear the appeal, and shall review the records of the investigation. The Superintendent shall issue a decision within ten (10) days of the hearing.

 

 

Step 3: School Committee

Further appeal may be made to the School Committee within ten (10) school days of Superintendent’s decision. Such appeal must be made in writing. The School Committee will hear the complaint and make a determination within ten (10) school days of the School Committee Hearing.

FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS LIAISONS/ COMPLAINT OFFICERS

 

Individuals with Disabilities                                      Title II Liaison

/Special Education Director                                       Ms. Sally Winslow

Ms. Elizabeth Fitzmaurice                                                         Asst. Superintendent                            

Director of Special Education                                        355 East Central Street

355 East Central Street                                                             Franklin, MA 02038

Franklin, MA 02038

 

Homeless Liaison                                                                  Title VI Civil Rights Officer

Ms. Sally Winslow                                                                    Harassment / Grievance

Director Pupil Personnel Services                                              Ms. Sally Winslow

355 East Central Street                                                             Asst Superintendent of Schools

Franklin, MA 02038                                                                 355 East Central Street

Franklin, MA 02038

 

English Language Learner                                                    Title IX Officer

Liaison                                                                                    Ms. Sally Winslow

Ms. Michele Kingsland-Smith                                      Asst. Superintendent of Schools

Parmenter Elementary School                                                   355 East Central Street

235 Wachusett Street                                                              Franklin, MA 02038

Franklin, MA 02038

 

Section 504 Coordinator                                                        Certification

Ms. Elizabeth Fitzmaurice                                                         Ms. Lisa Trainor

Director of Special Education                                                    Director Human Resources

355 East Central Street                                                             355 East Central Street

Franklin, MA 02038                                                                 Franklin, MA 02038

 

 

 

 

 


 

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Office of the District Attorney

for the Norfolk District

 

JEFFREY A. LOCKE

DISTRICT ATTORNEY

360 WASHINGTON STREET

P.O. BOX 309

DEDHAM, MA 02027-0309

(781) 329-5440

FAX (781) 326-7937

Memorandum of Understanding

 

Preamble

This Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) is established between the Franklin Public Schools (“FPS”), Franklin Police Department (“FPD”), and Norfolk County District Attorney’s Office (“NCDAO”) regarding the establishment of a protocol for the reporting and coordination of response to incidents of violence or other illegal activity within FPS facilities or at any school related activities. The MOU is intended to foster and ensure an environment in which students, teachers, parents, administrators, employees and members of the school community may participate in the educational process without fear of violence or other illegal activity. Toward that end, there shall be a “Zero Tolerance” policy regarding serious acts of violence, weapons, hate crimes and drug distribution within and on the grounds of the FPS. A zero tolerance policy means that such incidents will not be tolerated in the FPS and violators will be referred for disciplinary action, evaluation and/or prosecution in an expeditious fashion. Initially, this MOU will establish a protocol to foster and facilitate regular communication and cooperation between the parties in areas of mutual concern.

 

This MOU is an internal document between the parties and does not confer any rights, privileges or obligations nor is it enforceable as against the parties hereto in any court, administrative hearing, or other forum. Any written or oral communication between the parties of the MOU will be protected by all laws relating to privacy and confidentiality. This MOU is in addition to, and does not supplant, policies of the FPS with regard to disciplinary procedures and codes of student conduct which are now or may be formulated and published in any student handbook.

 

The parties hereby agree that in order to provide a “safe educational zone” for the FPS the following policies will be established:

I. Official Response to Reports of Serious Acts of Violence, Weapons, Hate Crimes or

Drug Distribution

1. The FPS, through its superintendent or his/her designee, shall continue to promptly notify the

    FPD liaison of any information regarding any “serious act of violence.” A serious act of

    violence shall include, but not be limited to, any actual or threatened assault involving at least

    one student against another student, teacher, administrator, employee or member of the school

    community occurring in a school facility, or on school property and/or in connection with a

    school function, which results in bodily injury and/or involved the possession or use of a

    weapon.

 

    The FPS, through its superintendent or his/her designee, shall continue to promptly notify the

    FPD liaison of any instance where a “weapon” is possessed by or taken from a student

    the school, on school grounds or surrounding area, or in connection with a school function. A

    weapon includes any item as defined in Massachusetts General Laws chapter 269, section 10,

    and any other object that FPS, in its discretion, feels warrants further attention by FPD.

 

    The FPS, through its superintendent or his/her designee, shall continue to promptly notify the

    FPD liaison of any information regarding the distribution of drugs within the school, on school

    grounds or surrounding area, or in connection with a school function.

 

2. The FPD shall assign an officer to serve as liaison with the FPS. The FPD shall continue to

    make the liaison officer available to FPS during school hours. The liaison officer shall receive

    reports from the FPS superintendent or his/her designee regarding serious acts of violence, the      

    possession or use of weapons, incidents of hate crimes or the distribution of drugs within the

    school, on school grounds or surrounding area, or in connection with a school function. The

    FPD liaison shall investigate such cases and, where appropriate, refer such cases to NCDAO

    for prosecution. The FPD shall promptly notify the NCDAO of any reports of weapons,

    distribution of drugs, hate crimes or serious acts of violence.

 

3. The NCDAO shall coordinate any case involving a child over the age of eleven which

    involves serious acts of violence, weapons, hate crimes or drug distribution with the FPD

    liaison and the FPS. Such cases will be evaluated by NCDAO and prioritized for prosecution

    where appropriate. The NCDAO shall make every effort to consult with the FPS

    superintendent or his/her designee and FPD liaison regarding appropriate conditions of

    pretrial recognizance during the pendency of the juvenile or criminal case.

 

The NCDAO shall make every effort to consult with the FPD and FPS regarding the disposition recommendation of such cases. In any case involving serious acts of violence, weapons, hate crimes or distribution of drugs, it shall be the policy of the NCDAO not to recommend a dismissal or pre-trial probation on any such case, except for extraordinary circumstances and only after consultation with liaisons of both the FPS and FPD.

 

The NCDAO shall report any felony delinquency complaint or adjudication to the appropriate FPS superintendent.

 

II. Discretionary Reporting of Any Illegal Activity

 

1. In addition, the FPS superintendent of his/her designee may report any illegal conduct by any

    student on school property or at any school-related activity to the FPD liaison. Such conduct  

    may include unlawful trespassing, possession of drugs and/or alcohol, tagging, or any other

    illegal activity. Under these reporting procedures, students may be subject to disciplinary

    action and/or delinquency prosecution in the normal course, but in addition may be eligible to

    be diverted from prosecution in appropriate circumstances.

 

 

III. Roundtable Meetings

 

1. The FPS, FPD and NCDAO shall establish regularly scheduled meetings to discuss the

    implementation and monitoring of this Agreement.

 

2. Such roundtable meetings shall occur monthly, unless by a suggestion of the parties, it is

    necessary or appropriate to meet more frequently. The parties may also invite other officials

    (e.g., DYS, Probation) to participate as appropriate.

 

3. To the extent permitted by law, the parties shall share information regarding the

    implementation of the Agreement. The parties agree that any information acquired during

    roundtable meetings shall be confidential and subject to privacy restrictions established by

    law.

 

Richard Warren, Ph.D                                                  Lawrence Benedetto

Superintendent                                                  Franklin Police Department

Franklin Public Schools

_______________

Jeffrey A. Locke

District Attorney

 

 

 


 

FRANKLIN HIGH SCHOOL

BELL SCHEDULE

 

 

7:32

Warning Bell

7:35 - 8:45

Period 1

8:50 - 9:55

Period 2

10:00- 11:05

Period 3

11:10 - 12:55

Period 4 (Lunch)

1:00 - 2:05

Period 5

2:05 - 2:25

Extra Help

2:10 - 3:10

Detention

 

Passing Times:  Passing time between classes is 5 minutes. Passing time between lunches is 3 minutes

 

Announcements: read at 8:40 a.m. each day

 

 

 

Period

Time

Minutes

Day 1

Day 2

Day 3

Day 4

Day 5

Day 6

Day 7

1

7:35 - 8:45

70

A

F

D

B

G

E

C

2

8:50 - 9:55

65

B

G

E

C

A

F

D

3

10:00- 11:05

65

C

A

F

D

B

G

E

4

11:10 - 12:55

78 +27 (lunch)

D

B

G

E

C

A

F

5

1:00 - 2:05

65

E

C

A

F

D

B

G

 

 

 

Lunch 1

Lunch 2

Lunch 3

Lunch 4

11:10-11:34 LUNCH

11:10-11:34 CLASS

11:10-12:01 CLASS

11:10-12:28 CLASS

11:37-12:55 CLASS

11:37-12:01 LUNCH

12:04-12:28 LUNCH

12:31-12:55 LUNCH

 

12:04-12:55 CLASS

12:31-12:55 CLASS

 

 

Lunch Schedule

1

11:10-11:34

24 Minutes

2

11:37-12:01

24 Minutes

3

12:04-12:28

24 Minutes

4

12:31-12:55

24 Minutes

 

 

 

 

SCHOOL CALENDAR 2011-2012

 

 

FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS CALENDAR 2011-2012