HORACE MANN MIDDLE SCHOOL

MISSION STATEMENT

OUR STUDENTS WILL:

SAIL THE “7C’s” TO SUCCESS:

CONFIDENCE: to challenge themselves intellectually and physically, take risks, be upstanders, not bystanders

CURIOSITY: to investigate, research, solve problems

COMPETITION: to have the skills to compete in the global marketplace

COOPERATION: to work together toward common goals

CRITICAL THINKING: to read, write and think critically, to use the content and skills they learn to solve problems and understand complex ideas

CREATIVITY: to express creativity through music, art, theatre and literature and to appreciate and find joy in all such artistic expression

CHARACTER: to understand the importance of living according to the six pillars of Character: Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Caring, Fairness and Citizenship

ANCHORED BY:

a healthy lifestyle perseverance a sense of humor the wisdom to make good choices a passion for life

— Vision Statement –

The Franklin Public Schools will foster within its students the knowledge and skills to find and achieve satisfaction in life as productive global citizens.

— Mission Statement –

The Franklin Public Schools, in collaboration with the community, will cultivate each student's intellectual, social, emotional and physical potential through rigorous academic inquiry and informed problem solving skills within a safe, nurturing and respectful environment.

— Core Values –

Student Achievement

All students are entitled to academic excellence, appropriate facilities and quality materials and instruction.

Social / Civic Expectations

Students will become engaged, responsible citizens who respect the dignity and diversity of all individuals and cultures.

School Climate

Through our words and our actions, we create a culture of civility, thoughtfulness, appreciation and approachability.

School / Community Relationships

An active commitment among family, community and schools is vital to student learning.

Community Resources for Learning

We partner with all members of the community to exchange ideas, solve problems and build a comprehensive educational experience.

MIDDLE SCHOOL DIRECTORY

Call (508) 541 6230 – listen for prompt – enter extension number

Mr. Shawn Fortin, Principal 2816

Ms. Katelyn Demers, Assistant Principal 2846

Ms. Kym Cameron, Nurse 2639

Mr. Chandler Creedon, School Psychologist 2824

Ms. Carolyn Wnuk, Adjustment Counselor 2818

Ms. Nancy Baxter, Secretary 2869

Ms. Laura Flanagan, Secretary 2677

Cafeteria 2882

The switchboard is open from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday - Friday.

Number to phone in student absence: (508) 541-6230 x1. Please call by 7:45 a.m.

Horace Mann Website: www.franklin.ma.us/auto/schools/horace

Central office Administrators

Ms. Maureen Sabolinski, Superintendent 553-4819

Ms. Sally Winslow, Assistant Superintendent 553-4820

Ms. Elizabeth Fitzmaurice, Administrator of Special Services 553-4837

School Committee

Mr. Jeffrey Roy, Chairperson

Mr. Ed Cafasso Ms. Cindy Douglas

Mr. Bill Glynn Ms. Paula Mullen

Ms. Susan Rohrbach Ms. Roberta Trahan

FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS

LIAISONS / COMPLAINT OFFICERS

Individuals with Disabilities Title II Liaison

/Special Education Director

Ms. Elizabeth Fitzmaurice Ms. Sally Winslow

Director of Special Education Asst Superintendent of Schools

355 East Central Street 355 East Central Street

Franklin, MA 02038 Franklin, MA 02038

Homeless Liaison Title VI Civil Rights Officer

Harassment / Grievance

Ms. Sally Winslow Ms. Sally Winslow

Asst Superintendent of Schools Asst Superintendent of Schools

355 East Central Street 355 East Central Street

Franklin, MA 02038 Franklin, MA 02038

English Language Learner/ Title IX Officer

Title 1 Coordinator

Ms. Michele Kingsland-Smith Ms. Sally Winslow

Parmenter Elementary School Asst. Superintendent of Schools

235 Wachusett Street 355 East Central Street

Franklin, MA 02038 Franklin, MA 02038

Section 504 Coordinator Educator Licensure

Ms. Elizabeth Fitzmaurice Ms. Lisa Trainor

Director Special Education Director Human Resources

355 East Central Street 355 East Central Street

Franklin, MA 02038 Franklin, MA 02038

ATTENDANCE

ATTENDANCE POLICY

Regular school attendance is required by state law. Daily attendance is important for learning.

Students who are absent from school are not eligible to attend any extracurricular or evening activities on the date of absence. It is the responsibility of the student to make up all missed assignments, tests or quizzes. The student will have as many days as missed in order to make up the work. For example, if a student is absent for two days, the student will have a minimum of two days, at the discretion of the teacher, to make up the required work.

Students who are absent in excess of seven undocumented days in a trimester, irrespective of otherwise passing grades, WILL RECEIVE A FAILING GRADE (A/F). All absences (with the exception of those listed below) will count towards the term absence limit.

The exceptions for the purpose of this policy are documented excused absences for:

1. Family bereavement

2. Religious holidays

3. Absences due to illness (or doctor's appointment). Documentation must be provided by a physician.

4. School approved field trips.

5. Absence on day following dismissal by school nurse.

6. Accompanying siblings/families on college visits (must provide same documentation from the college as the sibling from the high school).

Homework request while absent

Parents are strongly encouraged to check the website as homework is posted daily on line. If you do not have a computer, homework can be requested after two days of absence by calling the office prior to 9:00 a.m. If your child is absent for one day, we ask that he call a classmate/friend in order to get class assignments. THE SECRETARIES WILL NOT ISSUE A HOMEWORK REQUEST FOR ONE DAY OF ABSENCE. For homework requests made after 9:00 a.m., the assignments will be made available on the next day or check on line. If books are needed, the school is open until 4:00 p.m.

Absence Call-in Procedure

Parents are asked to call Horace Mann Middle School at 541-6230 x1, by 7:45, to report a student absence due to illness.

Please provide the following information when calling:

Student’s name
Classroom number or teacher’s name
Date(s) of absences

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

TARDY TO CLASS/SCHOOL

It is important for students to understand the importance of arriving to school on time. All students should be in assigned rooms by 7:25 a.m.

Students arriving tardy to school must:

1. Report to the main office prior to attending class

2. Provide a written parental excuse (unless student is accompanied by parent/guardian)

A student will be allowed no more than four unexcused tardies per term. An excused tardy is one for which a note has been received from a physician. A note from a parent/guardian does not constitute an excused tardy. More than four tardies per term will result in an after school detention. A parent/guardian will be notified by letter when a student has accumulated four unexcused tardies.

It is also a student's responsibility to arrive at each class on time. A student who has been detained by a teacher from the previous class must obtain a pass, or return after school to secure a pass from that teacher. Tardiness to class without a pass will result in a teacher issued detention. Abuse of this rule will result in referral to the main office.

DISMISSAL

Parents are urged to plan appointments and activities so that students do not have to leave school prior to the designated school closing time. If a dismissal is necessary, students are reminded that they are responsible for all work missed as a result of the dismissal.

In order for a student to be dismissed, written notification stating the time of dismissal must be presented to the office prior to the beginning of the first class of the day.

For your child's safety and protection, a student will be released ONLY to a parent/ guardian or person designated IN WRITING by parent/guardian. A parent/guardian or designated person picking up the student will be required to sign out a student prior to the student leaving the building.

Students dismissed from school prior to 11:00 a.m. will not be allowed to attend or participate in any extra-curricular functions, unless permission has been received from the principal.

UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD STUDENTS BE CALLING ON THEIR CELL PHONES OR SCHOOL PHONES TO HAVE THEMSELVES DISMISSED FROM SCHOOL. All calls relative to dismissal should come from the school nurse if it is a health issue. If there is an emergency and you would like to have your child dismissed, PLEASE CALL US at the main office. STUDENTS MAY NOT ARRANGE TO HAVE THEMSELVES DISMISSED FROM SCHOOL.

Dismissal on snow days

Sometimes the buses may be dismissed a few minutes early in order to maintain the schedule at the elementary schools. YOUR CHILD MAY ARRIVE HOME A FEW MINUTES EARLIER THAN USUAL. Please have a contingency plan in place with your child.

If you decide to pick your child up on days of inclement weather, please join the student pick up line. Do not come to the office and ask us to dismiss your child ahead of everyone else. That is extremely disruptive.

After school pick-up

Students will be released from clubs/activities or detention at 3:15 p.m. So as not to disrupt the after school activity, we ask that you wait for your child to come out. Please do not ask the secretary to call in and dismiss your child. Students staying for after school activities are asked to follow the regular pick up routines (wait for rides to pull up along the student drop off-pick up area). Students are not allowed to go out into the parking lot, through the pick-up line.

FOR YOUR CHILD’S SAFETY, please follow the traffic procedures we have in place. PLEASE DO NOT PULL UP IN FRONT OF THE MAIN ENTRANCE.

FAMILY TRAVEL

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 75, Sections 1 through 47 entitled "School Attendance." This section of the General Law 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 advance 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.

Family vacation days are viewed as unexcused absences.

If a student is absent because of a family trip:

1. It is the responsibility of the student to obtain and complete all missing assignments.

2. The student will be allowed as many days missed to make up work.

Please do not expect that extra after school tutoring sessions will be provided upon your child's return. We will provide parents with information regarding what essential questions/standards have been presented and ask that you work with your child at home on these.

SCHOOL CANCELATION ANNOUNCEMENTS

School Cancellation announcements will be made via the Connect-ED service which allows us to send voice messages to your home, work or cell phones and and/or e-mail messages.

Please make sure that your contact information is correct and updated as necessary.

FIRE OR EMERGENCY CALLS

When the fire alarm sounds, every adult and student in the school is expected to respond. Students are to pass quickly and quietly to the nearest exit. Once outside, students are to move away from the building as directed by their teacher and wait for the signal to return to class. Emergency procedures are posted in each classroom.

ACADEMIC POLICIES

ACADEMIC STANDARDS

Parents/Guardians, WITHOUT YOUR SUPPORT IT WILL BE IMPOSSIBLE TO MAINTAIN HIGH ACADEMIC STANDARDS.

ACADEMIC HONESTY

It is important to understand that our core values at Horace Mann Middle School are: kindness, honor, respect and integrity.

In regard to academic honesty:

1. It is expected that students will maintain integrity and honesty regarding completion of academic work.

2. All offenses regarding cheating and forgery will be treated seriously.

Offenses Include but are not limited to:

· Taking another student's work as one's own (test answers, homework, classwork, etc.)

· Providing answers/allowing another to copy homework, papers, tests, quizzes, etc.

· Plagiarism

· Inappropriate talking during an examination/quiz

· Forgery

CHEATING/FORGERY

If it is determined that a student has cheated - a grade of zero will be factored in for the particular assignment (test, quiz, homework). For a first offense a student will receive a minimum of two nights' detention. In regard to forgery - a student will receive a day of in-school suspension.

MARKING SYSTEM

Marks 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 common understanding about our marking system.

Marks 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. Marks must be fair and accurate and based upon school wide set of criteria.

At the Horace Mann marks include, but are not limited to, the following data:

tests and quizzes homework

classroom participation special projects and reports

Teachers decide what proportion of the mark each component of the marking system will have. Teachers communicate their marking system to students and to the parents at the beginning of the marking term so that there will be no misunderstanding about the expectations in the course.

PROGRESS REPORTS

All students will be issued progress reports during all three trimesters. Parents are always encouraged to make an appointment with the teacher and/or administrator to discuss ways of checking on assisting students.

Progress reports will be posted regularly using our online grading software, Aspen. Your students’ cluster, or individual teachers, will communicate their expectations regarding the frequency of specific reports.

If you do not have the ability to view the online report, please contact the school at (508) 541-6230 to receive a paper copy of your child’s progress report.

REPORT CARDS

Report cards are issued four times a year. Letter grades are used on all report cards.

The letter grades and their equivalent numerical grade are as follows:

· A- to A+ 90 to 100

· B- to B+ 80 to 90

· C- to C+ 70 to 80

· D- to D+ 60 to 70

· F (Failing) Any grade below 60

· I (Incomplete)

HONOR ROLL

To be included on the Principal’s Honor Roll a student must not have a grade below A-. In order to attain the Honor Roll, a student must not have any grade lower than B- or an incomplete grade.

PARENT/TEACHER APPOINTMENTS

If you would like to have a conference with your child's teacher, please call (508)541-6230 to leave a message or email your child’s teacher directly. Email addresses are available on the Horace Mann Middle School website.

PROMOTION POLICY

All students must achieve a passing grade in all major subjects (Mathematics, English/Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies) for two of the three terms in the academic year.

Franklin students may earn credit during summer school provided he/she:

· Passes at least one term in a year course

· Receives Administrative approval

EXTRA HELP

Teachers are available to help youngsters after school Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, unless a required department/faculty meeting takes precedence. Students are advised to make appointments in advance to avoid conflicts.

SCHOOL POLICIES

DISCIPLINE POLICY

The following guidelines exist so that the students attending the school may be assured that all is being done to ensure a safe, secure and productive atmosphere. Infringements and consequences are outlined below.

SOCIAL EVENTS - RULES AND REGULATIONS

Horace Mann social functions are closed affairs run exclusively for students. Dances will be held for Horace Mann students only. No moshing, grinding dancing or dirty dancing will be allowed. When a student leaves the dance, she will not be allowed to return. There will be no smoking in or outside the building at any time during the evening or afternoon. Students involved with any type of suspension will not be allowed to participate in or be present at any school related function/activity during time of suspension (including the day of suspension). Students are expected to follow dress code guidelines at all social events.

Misconduct on the part of any student may result in:

Students involved with any type of suspension will not be allowed to participate in, or be present at any school-related function/activity during the time of suspension.

A parent conference with the Principal or Assistant Principal is recommended before a student who has been suspended is allowed to return to class.

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 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 or a knife; or a controlled substance as defined in Chapter 94C, 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 education 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 (1) or (2) 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 said hearing before the principal.

(d) After said hearing, a principal may, at his discretion, decide to suspend rather than expel a student who has been determined by the principal to have violated either paragraph (1) or (2).

(e) 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 appeal. The student has the right to counsel at the 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.

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 a 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.

DUE PROCESS RIGHTS OF ALL STUDENTS

The Franklin Public Schools, Franklin Police Department and Norfolk County District Attorney’s Office have signed a Memorandum of Understanding collectively stating there is a Zero Tolerance policy in effect regarding serious acts of violence, weapons, hate crimes and drug distribution within and on the grounds of the Franklin Public Schools. As such, the aforementioned parties have agreed to procedures that provide for disciplinary action, evaluation and/or prosecution to occur in an expeditious manner. The full five-page Memorandum of Understanding is available at the office of the school principal and/or in the school library and is available for review by the public.

1. Before imposing such a suspension the due process clause of the Constitution requires the Public School to give the student

a. The right to oral or written notice of charges against him.

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

c. The opportunity to present his side of the story to an impartial decision maker..

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 procedures may 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.

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/PHYSICAL RESTRAINT

All schools and programs within the Franklin Public Schools strive to maintain safe learning environments for all students and staff. As part of a comprehensive approach to safety, all schools have a physical restraint policy in place with procedures, which follow the Department of Education Regulations (766 Reg. 603 CMR 46.00). If a student's behavior poses a threat of imminent harm, he/she may be restrained until calm. Qualified, trained staff carries out specific procedures and parents are notified. For further information, contact your child's school.

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), 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).

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.

· 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, teacher observations, and evaluations reports.

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

o Did the student’s disability cause or have a direct and substantial relationship to the conduct in question?

o 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 you child may not be removed from the current educational placement (unless under the special circumstances). The Team will review the IEP 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. 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.

Special circumstances for exclusion:

School personnel will provide Notice of Procedural Safeguards for students with disabilities prior to any suspension exceeding 10 school days in one school year. The Notice of Procedural Safeguards 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. Until issues are resolved, the student remains in his or her current placement.

Please be advised:

A minor student may be seen by school health/mental health professionals (e.g., school nurse, counselor, or school psychologist) and/or building administrators (e.g., principal, assistant principal) without parent notice or consent to ensure that the student is safe or is not a danger to others.

Parents/Guardians should also be advised that district school psychologists routinely assist teachers in planning classroom instruction and monitoring its effectiveness and do not need to notify parents of, or seek consent for, such involvement in student support.

TRANSPORTATION

BUS PASS IMPLEMENTATION PROCEDURES

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

In the event that a child loses a pass there are temporary bus passes in the principal’s office. The child 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 policies and regulations.

2. Pupils shall be on time for the bus both morning and afternoon. The driver is not required to wait beyond the scheduled departure time.

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 the bus stop from which they are assigned. Students will not be given permission to ride on a bus to which they are not assigned.

5. Students will be dropped off and picked up at their designated bus stops only

6. Middle school students will not be allowed to ride the elementary school buses. Any exceptions will be handled by the principals involved.

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

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

11. The bus driver has the authority to summon the police or school administrator in a situation which threatens the safety of students.

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 tone; loud or vulgar language, shouting, throwing things or roughhousing in the bus is prohibited.

15. Pupils shall be COURTEOUS to the driver, to fellow students and to 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 WELL: 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.

BUS 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 PRINCIPAL.

STUDENTS’ BICYCLES AND SKATEBOARDS

All bicycles and skateboards should be parked and locked on the bicycle rack near the front entrance of the school. It should be noted that it is the responsibility of the students to lock their bicycles/skateboards, as the school department cannot assume responsibility for stolen bicycles/skateboards. Skateboards are not allowed to be brought into the school.

Students must walk bicycles/skateboards on and off the school grounds, using designated crosswalk through the parking lot.

RIDE RIGHT! BICYCLE RULES OF THE ROAD

1. Ride on the right with the flow of traffic.

2. Ride single file.

3. Stop at stop signs and traffic lights.

4. Signal by hand for turns.

5. Give the right of way to pedestrians.

6. Give a clear warning (bell, horn, voice) when needed for safety.

7. Carry no passengers (except in approved baby seat).

8. Check your brakes often.

9. Equip your bike with front and rear reflectors, pedal reflectors and reflective material on both sides.

10. Do not adjust handlebars above your shoulders or alter the front fork of the bike.

11. Do not ride on express or limited access highways.

12. You may ride on the sidewalk outside of the business district.

13. Helmets should be worn.

FOOD SERVICES

CAFETERIA RULES AND PROCEDURES

The cafeteria provides an orderly outlet for students from the busy schedule of classes. Students may socialize at their tables with friends.

However, the following rules are to be followed so that every student may enjoy a clean, wholesome atmosphere in which to eat lunch with friends:

· Have money ready for the cashier - do not cut in line, or allow anyone to cut in front to you.

· Students purchasing juice/milk go directly to the line - do not place bag to save a seat.

· No seat-saving. The seat you select is yours for the entire lunch.

· Hands raised - this is a request to be quiet. Finish your sentence then look at the person providing instruction.

· Do not play with food/trash. Do not throw anything.

· Speak in conversational tones. Conversation should be with people at your own table and in your own vicinity.

· You will be dismissed to get ice cream and to go outside. If you do not go outside when your table is dismissed, but wish to go out later, raise your hand to be dismissed by a teacher at that time.

· Dismissal from a table will take place only when the area is clean (top of table, underneath your

· chair, around your table). All students seated at the table are responsible for the cleanliness of that table.

· There may be times a teacher will request for you to pick up something off the floor. Please help out!

· Tables will be dismissed one at a time.

· Food or drink does not leave the cafeteria.

· Once outside the cafeteria, please move quickly to get your things as it gets crowded if people gather to talk or wait for friends.

A hot lunch may be purchased at the cost of $2.50. This includes milk ($.50). Ice cream, cookies or chips may also be purchased.

Children from families receiving public assistance, as well as students from families with low income may be eligible for free lunches or lunches at a reduced price. Applications may be obtained in the main office.

CHARGES AND UNCOLLECTED DEPT

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 30^th). The School Business Administrator shall cause a journal entry to be made to charge the uncollected debt to the School budget appropriation.

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 for students within the school district in order to minimize the risk of 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 includes 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 insure that the health needs of all students will be met in the least restrictive environment. In order to assist students with developing the skills necessary to participate in all educational programs, building-based teams will communicate with parents and students to allow the student to gradually assume more responsibility for maintaining their safety as they advance from elementary school to secondary school.

The Franklin Public Schools has developed a 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 EPI-Pen on his/her person. Where this is a recommendation all necessary training procedures and guidelines articulated in the policy will be adhered to.

Background

Allergic food reactions can span a wide range of severity of symptoms. The most severe and potentially life threatening reaction is anaphylaxis. This protocol is to be used for students who are at risk for anaphylaxis and in circumstances where a previously undiagnosed life-threatening allergic response occurs.

Anaphylaxis is a potentially life-threatening medical condition occurring in food allergic individuals after exposure to their specific food allergens. Anaphylaxis refers to a collection of symptoms affecting multiple systems in the body, the most dangerous of which are breathing difficulties and a drop in blood pressure or shock, which are potentially fatal. The most common causes of anaphylaxis in children include allergies to:

· Foods (most commonly; dairy products, eggs, fish/shellfish, milk, peanuts/tree nuts, soy, wheat)

Anaphylaxis can occur immediately or up to two hours following allergen exposure, so it is important to:

· Identify student at risk

· Have appropriate preventative policies

· Be prepared to handle an emergency

Purpose and Goal

The Franklin Public Schools cannot guarantee to provide a food allergen-free environment for all students with life threatening allergies, or prevent any harm to students in emergencies. The goal is to minimize the risk of exposure to food allergens that pose a threat to those students, educate the community, and maintain and regularly update a system-wide protocol for responding to their needs. A system-wide effort requires the cooperation of all groups of people within the system.

The sections below highlight the major responsibilities of the various groups, but each child’s plan will be individualized and therefore not all responsibilities can be spelled out in this protocol.

The goal of the Franklin Public Schools regarding Life-Threatening Food Allergies is to engage in a system-wide effort to:

· Prevent any occurrence of life-threatening food based allergic reactions

· Prepare for any allergic reactions to food

· Respond appropriately to any food allergy emergencies that arise

Responsibilities of the Franklin Public School Department

The Superintendent and his/her staff shall be responsible for the following:

1. Create a system-wide emergency plan for addressing life-threatening food based allergic reactions.

2. Provide annual in-service training and education on reducing food-allergy risks, recognizing food allergy symptoms, and emergency procedures for staff.

3. Training shall include, but not be limited to:

· A description/definition of severe allergies and a discussion of the most common foods causing allergic reactions.

· The signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis.

· The correct use of an Epi-pen.

· Specific steps to follow in the event of an emergency.

4. Adopt a “NO FOOD TRADING/SHARING” and “NO UTENSIL SHARING” procedure in all schools with particular focus at the elementary school level.

5. School Health Professionals in conjunction with the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s) and the primary care provider/allergist prepare an Allergy Action Plan/Individual Health Care Plan for any student with a life-threatening food allergy. The Plans will be reviewed by the school nurse, the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s) and primary care provider and/or the student’s allergist, and signed off by the child’s physician/allergist, indicating that he/she deems it to be adequate.

6. Provide and maintain life-threatening food allergy free tables in each elementary school cafeteria as needed by the Individual Health Care Plan. These tables will be designated by a universal symbol. These tables will be cleaned and sanitized as per district protocol.

7. Lunch Room Attendants/Cafeteria Personnel, who report to principal, will be assigned to clean life-threatening food allergy tables.

8. Make the Individual Health Care Plan available in the nurse’s office and a student’s homeroom at the elementary level and in the nurse’s office at the middle and high school. Recommend that parents/guardians attach a photograph of their student with a Life-Threatening Food Allergy to their Individual Health Care Plan.

9. Submit to school bus drivers a list of students who have life-threatening food allergies.

10. Make Epi-pens (belonging to the school and those prescribed to the students) available in the nurse’s office and in other clearly designated locations as specified in the Individual Health Care Plan. At the secondary level, students are allowed and encouraged to carry their Epi-pens on their person as allowed by the district’s Administration of Medication Policy.

11. Familiarize teachers with the Individual Health Care Plan of their students and any other staff member who has contact with student on a need-to-know basis.

12. 1Consult with facilities personnel to develop protocol for cleaning classrooms, cafeteria, and other areas of the building to insure that the threat of allergens is minimized.

Responsibilities of the School Principal

To the extent possible, the principal of each school shall be responsible for the following:

1. School nurse will familiarize teachers with the Individual Health Care Plan of their students and any other staff member who has contact with student on a need-to-know basis.

2. In conjunction with nurses, provide in-service training and education for staff regarding life-threatening allergies, symptoms, risk reduction procedures and emergency procedures including demonstration on how to use the Epi-pen.

3. Send letters to all parents of children assigned to a classroom where one of the students has been identified as having a Life-Threatening Food Allergy (K-5)

4. The protocol that explains Life-Threatening Food Allergy and the application of the protocol at the school, concerning Life-Threatening Food Allergy will be discussed at kindergarten orientation.

5. Post the school’s emergency protocol on Life-Threatening Food Allergies in appropriate locations.

6. Notify staff the locations of Epi-pens in the school.

7. A contingency plan will be in place and understood by all staff and students in the event the nurse is not in the office or in the building. Staff will call 911 in all instances of any allergic reaction.

Responsibilities of School Health Professionals

The school nurse is the primary coordinator of each student’s plan. Each school nurse will have the following responsibilities:

1. Meet with each parent/guardian of a student with a Life-Threatening Allergy and develop an Individual Health Care Plan for the student. During meetings with parents/guardians, nurses shall discuss and encourage the use of MEDIC-ALERT bracelets and other methods of identification for students with Life-Threatening Allergies.

2. Maintain updated Individual Health Care Plans in the nurse’s office and in the student’s homeroom at each school and in the nurse’s office at the middle and high schools.

3. Nurse will assist the principal in providing information about students with Life-Threatening Allergies to staff.

4. In conjunction with the principal, provide in-service training and education for staff regarding Life-Threatening Allergies, symptoms, risk reduction procedures and emergency procedures including demonstration on how to use the Epi-pen.

5. Familiarize teachers with the Individual Health Care Plan of their students and any other staff member who has contact with student on need-to-know bases.

6. The school nurse will be responsible for following Department of Public Health regulations governing the administration of prescription medications. Nurses are also responsible for following the regulations that permit registration of non-licensed personnel to be trained and to administer Epi-pens.

7. Discuss with parents the appropriate locations for storing the Epi-pen and the possibility of receiving more than one Epi-pen as necessary.

8. Inform the school principal and parent/guardian if any student experiences an allergic reaction that has not been previously diagnosed.

9. Emergency protocol will be in place in the event the nurse is not in the building.

Responsibilities of Pediatric Allergy Specialists

Each pediatric allergy specialist will:

1. Consult with administration on implementation of best practices.

2. Review policies/procedures annually with administration and school health professionals.

3. Conduct in-service training to personnel as needed.

4. Be available to review Individual Health Care Plans if needed.

Responsibilities of Teachers

Each teacher shall have the following responsibilities:

1. Receive and review the Individual Health Care Plan, in collaboration with the nurse and parent(s) of any student(s) in your classroom with life-threatening allergies.

2. Leave information in an organized, prominent and accessible format for substitute teacher.

3. Participate in in-service training for students with life-threatening allergies

4. Teacher, in collaboration with the nurse and input from the parents of the allergic child, will set a classroom protocol regarding the management of food in the classroom.

5. Participate in the planning of a student’s re-entry into school after an anaphylactic reaction.

6. Advise parents of any school related activity that requires the use of food in advance of the project or activity (K-5 only).

7. Limit use of food for instructional lessons.

8. If food is to be used in a lesson, teacher will notify parent of students with LTA before the lesson.

9. Teacher will collaborate with administration and nurse to send out letters to all parents/guardians of students in a class with an individual with a Life Threatening Food Allergy.

10. Whenever reasonable, the teacher will reinforce appropriate hygiene techniques/hand washing before and after eating.

Responsibilities of Food Service Personnel

The food service department shall have the following responsibilities:

1. Supply cleaning materials for washing and sanitizing tables as per district protocol.

2. Provide in-service to food service employees regarding safe food handling practices to avoid cross contamination with potential food allergens.

3. Food service employees will wear non-latex gloves.

Responsibilities of Franklin Schools Transportation

All school bus drivers shall be informed that he/she is transporting a child with a Life-Threatening Allergy.

1. The school bus drivers shall have the following responsibilities:

2. Provide functioning emergency communication devices (e.g., cell phones, two-way radios, etc.) on each bus.

3. Maintain and reinforce policy of no food eating on the bus.

Responsibilities of Persons In Charge of Conducting After-School Activities

Person in charge of extracurricular programs shall have the following responsibilities:

1. The Individual Health Care Plan will be available for parents to copy to give to others who assume responsibility for their child. Examples of this may include:

· Before or after school activity instructors

· Coaches

· Solutions Personnel

· Extracurricular activity advisors

Responsibilities During Recess and Physical Education Classses

During recess and physical education classes (where a child has a Life-Threatening Allergy), the school shall have the following responsibilities:

1. Children will be under the supervision of at least one adult.

2. An Epi-pen will be taken outside if specified in the child’s Individual Health Care Plan.

3. Develop building-based procedure whereby emergency communication device (walkie-talkie, cell phone) is accessible and functional.

Responsibilities for Field Trips

The school shall have the following responsibilities when Life-Threatening Food Allergy students go on field trips:

1. Field trips need to take into consideration the risk for food allergen exposure, and parents must evaluate potential risks when determining whether their child should attend a field trip.

2. Lunches should be held in a safe place, so that children cannot access them until the appropriate time.

3. Lunches of children with food allergies should be stored separately to minimize cross contamination.

4. A registered nurse will accompany class on field trip and will maintain a Epi-Pen and a copy of the child’s ICP.

Responsibilities of Parents

Each parent of a student with a Life-Threatening Allergy shall have the following responsibilities:

1. Inform the school nurse of your child’s allergies prior to the opening of school (or as soon as possible after diagnosis).

2. Parent(s) must arrange to meet with the school nurse to develop an Individual Health Care Plan for the student and provide medical information from the child’s treating physician as needed to write the Plans. Parents must arrange for school health professionals to be able to communicate with student’s physician.

3. May choose to provide the school a list of foods and ingredients to be avoided, and provide a list of safe or acceptable foods that can be served to your child.

4. Provide the school nurse with enough up-to-date emergency medications (including Epi-pens) so they can be placed in all required locations for the current school year.

5. Complete and submit all required medication forms.

6. Provide a MEDIC ALLERT ID for your child.

7. Notify nurse of upcoming field trip as soon as possible and provide Epi-pen to be taken on field trips as stated in the field trip policy.

8. Encourage students to wash hands before and after handling food.

9. Teach your child to:

· Recognize the first symptoms of a food allergic/anaphylactic reaction.

· Know where the epinephrine auto-injector is kept and who has access to the epinephrine.

· Communicate clearly as soon as he/she feels a reaction is starting.

· Carry his/her own epinephrine auto-injector when appropriate.

· Not share snacks, lunches, or drinks.

· Understand the importance of hand washing before and after eating.

· Report teasing an/or bullying that may relate to the child’s disability.

· Take as much responsibility as possible for his/her own safety.

· As children get older, teach them to:

· Communicate the seriousness of the allergy.

· Communicate symptoms as they appear.

· Read labels.

· Administer own epinephrine auto-injector and be able to train others in its use.

· Inform the school of any changes in the child’s Life-threatening Food Allergy status.

· Provide the school with the licensed provider’s statement if the student no longer has food allergies.

· Go on field trips and out-of-school activities with your child, whenever possible.

· Provide bag of snacks for your child’s classroom along with safe foods for special occasions.

10. Sign a release for school personnel to consult with family physician/allergist and all medical providers.

Responsibilities of Students

Each student with a Life-Threatening Food Allergy shall be responsible for the following:

1. Take responsibility for avoiding food allergens.

2. Do not trade or share food.

3. Wash hands before and after eating.

4. Learn to recognize symptoms of an allergic food reaction.

5. Promptly inform an adult as soon as accidental exposure occurs or symptoms appear.

6. Take more responsibility for your food allergies as you get older.

7. Develop a relationship with the school nurse and/or another trusted adult in the school to assist in identifying issues related to the management of the food allergy in the school

STUDENT HEALTH AND WELLNESS

STUDENT SURVEYS

Since 1991, and every two years thereafter, 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.

HEALTH/SAFETY

Franklin school nurses are integral members of the educational 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 children at the school on a daily basis. Pupils who are ill or injured are urged to tell their teacher or aide on duty or the nearest teacher immediately. Do not allow a minor problem to become a major one by not bringing it to the attention of a teacher or aide. 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 child cannot remain at school, the parents are notified.

Student Illness

Students may arrange for an appointment with the nurse to discuss any health problem. Excluding emergency situations, students are requested to have a pass from a teacher in order to report to the nurse's office.

Dismissal by the nurse

If a student becomes ill and must be dismissed, the school nurse will notify his/her parent. A parent or his/her delegate will be expected to transport the ill student home.

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 physician’s 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.

Medical Waiver

In order for a student to be granted a medical excuse from any course(s), including physical education, a doctor's certificate designating the length of time and the reasons must be given to the school nurse.

Excused from Physical Education

In order to be excused from participating in physical education, a student must present a statement with inclusive dates from her physician. Statements are kept on file in the health office and reported to the physical education department.

Immunization

The School Immunization Law, Chapter 75, Section 15 of the General Laws states: no child shall be admitted to school except as hereinafter provided: The provisions are: A physician’s certificate listing immunizations given and/or the diseases the child has had; A physician’s certificate stating immunization is contraindicated for health reasons. A parent or guardian’s statement that immunization conflicts with religious beliefs.

The law requires immunization against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, measles, mumps and rubella (German measles). Principals are responsible for refusing school admittance to children who have not had the required immunizations or who are not otherwise exempted as explained above. Un-immunized or partially immunized children whose private physicians certify they are in the process of receiving the required immunizations shall be regarded as in compliance with the law. However, all immunizations must be complete for admission to kindergarten.

In addition, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health requires HIB immunization for all students in preschool programs as a condition of school attendance. A second dose of measles vaccine will be required for entry into 7th grade until 2002. Effective September 1996 a second dose of measles vaccine will be required for entrance into kindergarten. Hepatitis B vaccine and proof of lead screening are also required for kindergarten entry for all children born on or after January 1992. A Td (tetanus/diphtheria) booster is required in grades 10-12.

Physical Examinations

State law requires that all students present evidence of a physician’s physical examination upon entry to the seventh grade.

Communicable Diseases

A student 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.

Parent 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 the first 24 hours of antibiotic treatment. A child 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 Diseases

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.
The director of Pupil Personnel Services and school nurse, in consultation with building principal will be responsible for:

Determining close contacts as defined by MDPH
Notifying parents of close contacts by letter and/or phone, depending on the urgency of seeking preventative treatment
Assigning additional personnel to assist with notification (i.e. guidance, secretarial staff, ESP’s)
Providing general notification to staff and the school community as indicated

School nurse will contact health care professionals in other schools if close contacts and/or siblings are involved.
School nurse shall be responsible for direct communication with family, physicians and all health care agencies.
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.

Pediculosis

Franklin Public Schools have a "nit free" policy which means a student treated for head lice will not be readmitted to school until there are no nits observed by the school nurse.

Screenings

All children in grade 7 are screened for vision and hearing. Parents of those children failing to pass either of these screenings will be notified. It then becomes the parent’s responsibility to see that proper professional follow-up is completed.

Postural Screening

Postural screening will be conducted in the Franklin School System on all students in grades 5 through 9, as mandated by law. Every student will be screened and will not be exempt unless a note from a private physician is provided, stating that the postural screening has been completed during the academic year starting in June.

Initial screening will be conducted in PE classes in late February into March by the nurse or the physical education staff who have been trained to conduct these screenings. All students with questionable findings will be referred to the school nurse. Re-screens will be completed by the nurse after which recommendations will be made.

Since this is a health concern that is likely to develop during the adolescent years of rapid growth, it is important to be assessed annually. Although this screening is usually done during a physician’s annual exam, it must be specifically noted by the physician, such as "postural screening negative" or "scoliosis negative."

PARENTAL NOTIFICATION RELATIVE TO SEX EDUCATION

At the beginning of each school year, all parents/guardians of students in our school will be notified in writing of the courses and curriculum we offer that primarily involve human sexual education or human sexuality issues. The Superintendent of Schools will determine the administrator(s) responsible for sending the notice(s). Parents/guardians of students who enroll in school after the start of the school year will be given the written notice at the time of enrollment. If the planned curriculum changes during the school year, to the extent practicable, parents/guardians will be notified of this fact in a timely manner before implementation.

Each such notice to parents/guardians will include a brief description of the curriculum covered by this policy, and will inform parents/guardians that they may:

1. Exempt their child from any portion of the curriculum that primarily involves human sexual education or human sexuality issues - without penalty to the student - by sending a letter to the school principal requesting an exemption. Any student who is exempted by request of the parent/guardian under this policy may be given an alternative assignment.

2. Inspect and review program instruction materials for these curricula, which will be made reasonably accessible to parents/guardians and others to the extent practicable. Parents/guardians may arrange with the principal to review the materials at the school, and may also review them at other locations that may be determined by the Superintendent of Schools.

A parent/guardian who is dissatisfied with a decision of the principal concerning notice, access to instructional materials, or exemption for the student under this policy may send a written request to the Superintendent for review of the issue. The Superintendent or designee will review the issue and give the parent/guardian a timely written decision, preferably within four weeks of the request.

A parent/guardian who is dissatisfied with the Superintendent's decision may send a written request to the School Committee for review of the issue. The School Committee will review the issue and give the parent/guardian a timely written decision, preferably within four weeks of the request. A parent/guardian who is still dissatisfied after this process may send a written request to the Commissioner of Education for review of the issue in dispute.

The Superintendent of Schools will distribute a copy of this policy to each principal by September 1 of each year.

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.

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 Children and Family Services (DCF) whenever we have reasonable cause to suspect any kind of abuse. The mandated reporter is exonerated from filing with DCF if he/she immediately notifies his/her supervisor, in this case building principal, who then becomes responsible for notifying DCF. 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. DCF maintains confidentiality of the reporter.

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

Procedures for Reporting Cases of Child Abuse

Any school staff member who suspects that a child has been abused shall report this as soon as possible to the principal and administrator of Pupil Personnel Services on the day of observation. After notification and consultation with the school psychologist, the principal will notify the Department of Social Services by telephone and within two (2) working days submit a written report (Form 51A) to:

Department of Social Services

185 Church Street

Whitinsville, MA 01588

508-234-6213

RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

FPS COMPLAINT AND GRIEVANCE POLICY AND PROCEDURE

POLICY

It is the policy of the Franklin Public School District to provide 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 he 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 a complainant or subject of a complaint disputes the result 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 the 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.

DISCRIMINATION/HARASSMENT

The Franklin Public School Department is committed to equal educational opportunity for all students and members of the school community without regard to age, color, disability, national origin, race, religion, sex or sexual orientation 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 age, color, disability, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. 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 age, color, disability, national origin, race, religion, sex or sexual orientation in any form will not be tolerated (regardless of intent). 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 disabled individuals or groups.

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 the notification of law enforcement agencies.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT

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. Further, 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

“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”) 1 Congress Street – 10^th 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, 7^th Floor Boston, MA 02109-4557

617-223-9662

SUMMARY OF REGULATIONS PERTAINING TO STUDENT RECORDS

In order to provide students with appropriate instruction and educational services, it is necessary for the school system to maintain extensive and sometimes personal information about them and their families. It is essential that pertinent information in these records be readily available to appropriate school personnel, accessible to the student’s parents or legal guardian and/or the student in accordance with law, yet be guarded as confidential information.

The superintendent will provide for the proper administration of student records in keeping with state and federal requirements. The temporary record of each student will be destroyed five years after the student transfers, graduates or withdraws from the school district. Former students desiring information from their records may obtain it by requesting such information from the principal before the date of destruction.

Confidentiality of Records

With a few exceptions, no individuals or organizations but the parent, student and school personnel working directly with the student are allowed to have access to information in the student record without the specific, informed, written consent of the parent or the student.

Amendment of Record

The parent or student has the right to add relevant comments, information, or written materials to the student record. In addition, the parent and student have the right to request that information in the record be amended or deleted. The parent and student have a right to a conference with the school principal to make their objections known. Within a week after the conference, the principal must render a decision in writing.

If the parent and student are not satisfied with the decision of the principal, the regulations contain a provision through which the decision may be appealed to the superintendent of schools.

Destruction of Records

The regulations require that certain parts of the student record, such as the temporary record, be destroyed a certain period of time after the student leaves the school system. School authorities are also allowed to destroy misleading, outdated, or irrelevant information in the record from time to time while the student is enrolled in the school system. Before any such information may be destroyed, the parent and student must be notified and have an opportunity to receive a copy of any of the information before its destruction.

A copy of the notice must be placed in the temporary record. A newspaper announcement detailing the intent of the district with regard to the destruction of records will not suffice; parents/students must be notified in writing.

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.

(a) A non-custodial parent is eligible to obtain access to the student record unless:

1. The parent has been denied legal custody based on a threat to the safety of the student or to the custodial parent, or

2. The parent has been denied visitation or has been ordered supervised visitation, or

3. 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.

(b) The school shall place in the student’s record documents indicating that a non-custodial parent’s access to the student’s record is limited or restricted pursuant to 603 CMR 23.00.

(c) In order to obtain access, the non-custodial parent must submit a written request for the student record to the school principal.

(d) 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 21 days, 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.

(e) 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.

(f) 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.

ACCESS TO INFORMATION FOR PARENTS OF A CHILD WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives in General Court assembled, and by the authority of the same as follows:

The fourth paragraph of section 3 of chapter 71B of the General Laws, as appearing in the 2006 Official Edition, is hereby amended by adding the following 3 sentences: To insure that parents can participate fully and effectively with school personnel in the consideration and development of appropriate educational programs for their child, a school committee shall, upon request by a parent, provide timely access to parents and parent-designated independent evaluators and educational consultants for observations of a child’s current program and of any program proposed for the child, including both academic and non-academic components of any such program. Parents and their designees shall be afforded access of sufficient duration and extent to enable them to evaluate a child’s performance in a current program and the ability of a proposed program to enable such child to make effective progress. School committees shall impose no conditions or restrictions on such observations except those necessary to ensure the safety of children in a program or the integrity of the program while under observation or to protect children in the program from disclosure by an observer of confidential and personally identifiable information in the event such information is obtained in the course of an observation by a parent or a designee.

AN ACT RELATIVE TO THE PLACEMENT OF TWINS IN SCHOOLS

Section 90. A parent or guardian of twins or higher order multiples may, if the children are in the same grade level at the same school request that the children be placed in the same classroom or in separate classrooms. The school may recommend classroom placement to the parents and provide professional education advice to the parents to assist in making the best decision for their children’s education; provided, however, that the school shall provide the placement requested by the children’s parent or guardian. The parent or guardian must request the classroom placement not later than 14 days after the first day of each school year or 14 days after the first day of attendance of the children during a school year.

SECTION 504 Services for Students with Disabilities

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:

1. Has a mental or physical impairment which substantially limits on or more major life activities such as caring for one's self, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning and working

2. Has a record of such; or

3. Is regarded as having such an impairment

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:

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:

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;

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;

children and youth who are living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations;

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

unaccompanied youth 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.

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.

ASBESTOS HAZARD EMERGENCY RESPONSE ACT

In compliance with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response 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 is maintained at the office of the Director of Administrative Services.

The EPA requires schools to have asbestos re-inspections every three (3) years. Complete results of the three (3) year re-inspection are on file at the Superintendent's office.

NO SMOKING POLICY

The Franklin School Committee prohibits the use of any tobacco products within the school buildings, the school facilities, on the school grounds or school vehicles including buses by any individual, including school personnel, consistent with Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 71, Section 37H.

A GUIDE TO YOUR CIVIL RIGHTS AT SCHOOL

Every student has the right to attend school safely, regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, ethnic background, gender, sexual orientation or disability. Hate motivated violence, harassment and discrimination may interfere with a student’s academic performance and physical and emotional well-being. It may also affect a student’s ability to enjoy his or her school education.

WHAT DOES A HATE CRIME MEAN?

Certain types of language or conduct may indicate the potential that a hate crime has occurred. Some indicators that a crime was hate-motivated include:

· Use of racial, ethnic, religious, sexual or anti-gay slurs.

· Use of symbols of hate, such as a swastika or a burning cross

HOW DO HATE CRIMES MOST FREQUENTLY OCCUR?

A physical attack or a threat of bodily harm, on the basis of a student’s race, color, religion, national origin, ethnic background, gender, sexual orientation or disability.

Intimidating or threatening language based on a student’s race, color, religion, national origin, ethnic background, gender, sexual orientation or disability.

Damage to a student’s personal property or belongings because of the student’s race, color, religion, national origin, ethnic background, gender, sexual orientation or disability.

WHAT IS HARASSMENT?

Harassment in school occurs when a student or adult’s behavior or inappropriate language creates a hostile, offensive or intimidating school environment. A single incident, depending on its severity, may constitute illegal harassment.

· A hostile, offensive or intimidating school environment may be created by behaviors such as the following:

· Degrading, demeaning, insulting or abusive verbal statements or writings of a sexual or racial nature or related to a student’s race, color, religion, national origin, ethnic background, gender, sexual orientation or disability;

· Treatment of a student in a more or less favorable way because the student submitted to or rejected advances or requests for a social relationship; and

· Unwelcome sexual advances, including same-gender harassment.

If you feel that your civil rights have been violated, NOTIFY A SCHOOL OFFICIAL (principal, assistant principal, counselor, teacher) right away!

Please remember it is against the law to violate the civil rights of another. We will involve the

Franklin Police Department and/or the Attorney General’s Office for any and all alleged civil rights violations.

BULLYING PREVENTION

Some of the content contained in this handbook section is adapted from the Massachusetts Aggression Reduction Center (MARC).

Vision

The Franklin Middle Schools, in partnership with our students and families, will create a learning and working environment that is free of bullying, cyberbullying and/or bullying behaviors.

Mission

The Franklin Middle Schools are 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 behaviors, and/or retaliation in any form. We will respond to any reported incidents of bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation in a timely manner consistent with our bullying plan, investigate and take action as needed.

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;

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; or

iii. 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 STUDENTS AND PARENTS

Is This Bullying?

One time incidents may be deliberately mean or cruel, but they may not be bullying. However, some other behaviors may violate other school rules so it should be reported to an adult as soon as possible. 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 I Report?

In the event that a bullying incident has occurred get as much information as possible from your child and report it to a counselor, administrator, and/or teacher.

If you have a question or concern about a disciplinary action taken by the school:

· Begin by having a private conversation with the school administration

· It is important that our children know that the adults are working collaboratively to solve problems

· Educators are bound by policy - they may not be able to change an action if doing so violates the policy set by the School Committee

SCHOOL RESPONSE TO REPORTS

Administrative Steps

· Take a complete statement from the student or parent/guardian 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) or other law enforcement as appropriate

· Notify Superintendent, Assistant Superintendent and/or Director of Special Education as appropriate

· Provide appropriate information to the parents/guardians of the victim and the alleged bully

· Take steps to restore a sense of safety for the victim, witnesses and school community

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.

· Perpetrator(s)/ Bystander(s)/ False Reporter(s):

· Inform student(s) about the consequences for bullying, cyberbullying, and retaliation in school

· Have an educational discussion with the student(s) and parents/guardians

· Inform all relevant adults – teachers, counselors, staff, 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

· Students may be asked to give back to the community by being asked to participate in a community service project or activity

· 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

· If the student is a special education student, the Team may reconvene

· Student(s) may be re-assigned to a different classroom, team or school at the sole discretion of the Administator

· Student(s) may be assigned a progressive (strike) disciplinary consequence including but not limited to:

o Lunch Detention

o Bus Suspension

o Exclusion from extra-curricular activities and/or special events

o After School Detention

o Suspension

o Other discipline at the discretion of the Administrator and consistent with school and district discipline policies

Victim(s)

· Have an educational discussion with the student(s) and parents/guardians

· Establish a safety and comfort 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

· Student(s) may be referred to the School Adjustment Counselor or School Psychologist

· If the student is a special education student, the Team may reconvene

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 child 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 comfort plan for your child	The school cannot share any discussions or actions taken with other children
Your child reports to you an incident that occurred at school	The school may take steps to ensure the safety of the children involved	The school cannot discuss the steps taken that involve any other child
Your child reports to you that he/she heard a rumor about a future incident that may occur at school	The school may investigate the plausibility of the future incident and take appropriate action, including notifying law enforcement	The school cannot share with you their discussions with other children
Your child reports to you that another child is being bullied at school	The school may investigate the situation and ensure the safety of children involved	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 and ensure the safety of children involved	The school cannot report back to you any outcome of the investigation, except for your child’s part, if any

Bullying Web Resources

Why does my child get bullied/bully others? What can I do to help?

www.nasponline.org/resources/handouts/bullying template 9_04.pdf

www.bullyonline.org/schoolbully/school.htm

www.nmsa.org/Research/ResearchSummaries/Bullying/tabid/709/Default.aspx

www.byparents-forparents.com/parenting/what-to-do-if-your-child-is-a-bully.htm

www.education.com/topic/school-bullying-teasing/

Bullying/Cyberbullying Facts and FAQ’s:

webhost.bridgew.edu/marc/

www.stopcyberbullying.org/index2.html

www.nomorebullies.wordpress.com

www.cyberbullying.us

www.wiredsafety.org/

www.cde.ca.gov/ls/ss/se/bullyfaq.asp

Social Networking Safety Tips for Teens and Parents:

www.nsteens.org/

www.safefamilies.org/socialnetworking.php

MA State Law Chapter 92 of the Acts of 2010:

www.mass.gov/legis/laws/seslaw10/sl100092.htm

HORACE MANN MIDDLE SCHOOL IS A SAFE PLACE TO LEARN AND GROW

To insure a safe environment for all students it is important to remember:

· Keep to the right in the hallways - do not run or push.

· Quiet during fire drills and lockdown drills - everyone must be able to hear instructions.

· Never make threats toward another person. Any threats of harm will BE TAKEN SERIOUSLY. We will immediately notify the police - do not joke about harming another person.

· Remind parents to let us know if you are not going to be in school. We must be notified no later than 7:45 a.m.

· If you cross the street, please use the crosswalks. If a vendor is across the street, you may not leave school grounds and then return for a bus or activity. Parents will be notified. You will be subject to detention.

· Do not bring sharp objects to school. Wallet chains are not allowed (see handbook for other restrictions).

· Walk bikes (through designated crosswalk area) on school property. Please wear a helmet.

· Remain seated on buses for the entire ride.