Telephone:
(518) 483-7807
2009-2010
STUDENT HANDBOOK
Mr. Jerry Griffin
Principal
Mrs. Lori Tourville
Assistant Principal
Ms. Eileen Kilcullen
Athletic Director
Guidance Counselors
Mrs. J. Dievendorf (A-G)
Mrs. Susan Jones-King (H-O)
Mr. Tim McCarthy (P-Z)
This Agenda Belongs to:
Name __________________________________________
Address ___________________________________________
City/Town _____________________________________
Phone ________________________________________
STATEMENT OF NONDISCRIMINATION
The
basis of disability, sex, race, color, religion, age, national origin or
other prescribed bases in its programs, activities, or employment
matters, in accordance with the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, the
Americans with Disabilities Act, the Rehabilitation
act of 1973, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, Title IX of
the Education Amendments of 1972 and other applicable laws.
Pursuant to Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and other federal and state laws, rules
and regulations, the Assistant Superintendent, Donna Bushey, 42
Huskie Lane, Malone NY, office telephone number 518-483-7800,
has been named by the school district as the officer who will
coordinate its efforts to comply with and carry out the
responsibilities under the Rehabilitation Act, Title IX and other
similar laws. Any individual who believes that his/her rights have
been violated by the district or district personnel under any of the
aforementioned laws, rules or regulations, should contact the
Superintendent, who will inform him/her of the appropriate
procedures to follow to obtain redress for such grievance(s).
STUDENT SERVICES
GUIDANCE:
School counselors support students in their efforts to learn,
assist them in their social and emotional growth, and guide them in their
transition from high school to careers. Counselors help the students better
understand themselves and their options. Counselors are available to assist
students with personal problems/concerns, academic difficulties, course
selections, career information, college applications, financial aid,
scholarships,
and military information. There are many additional resources available in the
guidance office. These include catalogs, videos, pamphlets, computer
information and referrals.
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS:
Students should see their guidance
counselors for specific graduation requirements. The counselors will update
students regarding graduation requirements on a yearly basis.
ADD/DROP POLICY:
Counselors meet with students to develop their
schedules. The course selection is approved by parents; therefore, students
may not drop courses unless exceptional circumstances exist. After school
begins, students must wait ten days before initiating a drop procedure.
After that time, the student must meet with the guidance counselor to determine
if a meeting needs to be set up with the student, parent, teacher, counselor,
and
administrator in order to drop a course.
Students must always carry at least 6
courses.
(exclusive of labs, PE, resource room or Academic Intervention
Services).
GRADING PROCEDURE:
Students will receive a numerical grade for each
course based on the average of work for the quarter. The only exception is that
a freshman's first quarter report card grade may not be less than a 55.
FINAL EXAMS:
All courses will end in a final exam. If a student has a 90
average after 4 quarters, and the final exam is not a Regents, the student may
choose to be exempt from the final exam. To qualify for a final exam
exemption, a student may not have exceeded the attendance policy.
CLASS RANK
- Rules and Procedures
1. Physical education, swimming, religious education, Swinging Sounds, and
Jazz Ensemble are not included in the average for class rank.
2. Courses carrying other than one credit are to be calculated based on a factor
equivalent to the number of credits for the course. (For example,
3. If an exam or course is failed and later passed, the passing mark is used. If
a course is not repeated, the failing mark will be used.
4. If a student chooses to retake a Regents Exam after passing it once (in
summer school, for example), the higher grade will be used, but both of the
grades will be shown on the permanent record.
5. Averages in a course will be calculated using the average of the quarterly
grades and one final exam. In one-semester courses, each quarterly grade will be
double-weighted in calculating the final average for the course.
3
6. Class rank for graduating seniors will be based on seven semesters or
fewer if a student graduates in less than seven semesters. A tentative class
rank will be calculated after six semesters for completing college applications.
If a student wishes to find out his/her rank, he/she must see the guidance
counselor.
7. Starting with the class of 2012 and beyond students will be ranked based on a
weighted Grade Point Average.
INCOMPLETES:
Students will have three weeks from the end of
marking periods 1, 2, and 3 to make up incomplete grades. Work not made
up in this time period will receive a grade of zero. After 3 weeks, each
incomplete will be changed to a numerical grade.
Incompletes will not be
given for marking period 4.
NOTIFICATION OF STUDENTS WHO FAIL COURSES AND/OR
STATE EXAMS:
Classroom teachers complete a class listing showing who
has passed and failed courses and/or New York State Exams. Teachers will
also notify parents of course or State Exam failures.
Counselors will inspect the listing to determine what students need and will
contact the students by letter and/or telephone as to their status.
Students who fail required state exams
are also scheduled into Academic Intervention Services for either the following
semester or school term. When students are scheduled for AIS, attendance is
mandatory as it would be for any other class. This procedure is followed until
the student tests out of the program by passing the required exam.
ATTENDANCE
Since poor attendance and lack of punctuality are frequent causes of failure in
school and in life, the following policy is instituted:
Students must meet the minimum standards of attendance to receive credit for
courses in which they are enrolled. In order to obtain academic credit for a
course, a student must be in attendance at the time that a class is scheduled.
Therefore, the attendance policy does not differentiate
between excused and unexcused absences.
When a student is failing a course due to academic deficiencies, he/she will
receive a failing numerical grade. Students may be denied credit in a course if
they exceed the following guidelines:
The Commissioner of Education has ruled that parental consent to
a student's absence does not preclude the school district from
enforcing its attendance policy against the student for violating the
district's attendance policy. A school board can establish rules
concerning the order and discipline of the schools, as it may deem
necessary. These rules are not subject to parental consent.
Maximum Absences:
More than 15 absences for the year, the student may be denied credit for a
full year course.
More than 20 absences in a lab science course, the student may be denied
credit for the course. An absence from a double period lab will be calculated as
2 absences.
More than 8 absences in a semester course, the student may be denied credit for
the course.
More than 7 absences for the year in physical education, the student may be
denied credit for the course.
More than 2 absences for the quarter in swimming, the student may be denied
credit for the course.
This policy applies to all students and all programs offered at
Academy and those offered through the
Final Exam Ineligibility:
A student who exceeds the maximum number of absences will not be allowed to take
the final exam in the course.
The student will be
notified one week before the end of the course whether the student will
be eligible for the final exam for the course. A student who has
exceeded the maximum number of absences will not qualify for an
exemption from the final exam. The student will receive a zero for the
final exam grade and the final average will be determined by dividing
the sum of the four quarterly grades by five.
Summer School Ineligibility:
Students who have excessive absences may
be denied the privilege of attending summer school. Students who exceed
more than 20 days of absences in a full-year course, 10 days for a half year
course, or 25 days for a lab science course will not be allowed to attend
summer school for credit.
Excessive Tardies To School/Homeroom:
Excessive tardies to school/
homeroom will result in disciplinary action.
After each of the first two unexcused tardies, students will receive a warning.
Students are responsible for turning in excuses for late to school either on the
day they arrive late or within two school days. Three tardies to school/
homeroom without a written excuse from a parent/ guardian will result in
detention. Excuses from a parent/ guardian will not be accepted if a student
arrives late to homeroom. (Excused tardies are tardies due to personal illness,
death in the family, impassable roads, religious observance, quarantine,
required court appearances, attendance at health clinics, approved college
visits, approved cooperative work programs, military obligations).
Students may lose their parking privileges on campus if he/she has
excessive tardies to school/homeroom.
whether they are the fault of the student or parent.
(i.e. family
vacation, hunting, babysitting, haircut, work, overslept, etc.)
Notes from Parents:
When a student is absent, a note written by the parent explaining the absence
must be turned into the attendance clerk within 3 days of the absence when
students are entering the building in the morning.
After 3 days, if no written excuse is received the absence(s) will
be marked as unexcused. Students with
(3) or more unexcused absences
will have detention(s) assigned for every unexcused absence after that.
Absences can only be recorded as "excused" upon receipt of a written signed
explanation from the parent for one of the reasons stated in the Excused Tardies
section.
Students are expected to assume the
responsibility for turning in excuses either on the day they arrive late or
within two school days.
When a student has accumulated 3 unexcused absences, the attendance
clerk will send home a written letter to the parents. This letter will state the
dates of the unexcused absences and the District’s Attendance Policy.
Successive letters will be sent home every time the student accumulates 3
additional unexcused absences.
After 9 excused or unexcused tardies to school, the principal or attendance
clerk will contact the parent/ guardian to determine whether a pattern or
problem is present. At this time, a doctor’s statement may be required for
each additional tardy to school.
Exempted Absences:
The following are to be considered exempted absences and will not be counted as
an absence for the purposes of implementing this policy. However, these absences
should still be specifically noted in the grade book.
Music lessons which are scheduled in conjunction with a regular course of
study.
Appointments scheduled by Guidance or the Health Office.
Attendance at CSE, Child Study, or 504 meetings.
In - School Detention or Suspension from class or school when an alternate,
approved educational program has been used.
Other educationally related or school sponsored activities such as:
Field trips
Sports trips
Senior trip
State testing
College Interview
AP/ College Testing
Other reasons with the principal’s pre-approval
Daily Attendance Procedures:
Attendance will be taken during homeroom. Students who are not in their assigned
rooms at this time will be considered absent. The teacher will send the yellow
attendance cards of students not in homeroom to the attendance office.
If a student is late to
homeroom, they are considered tardy to school.
Attendance Records:
The record of each student’s presence, absence, tardiness and early departures
shall be kept in a register of attendance in a manner consistent with the
Commissioner’s Regulations. An absence, tardiness or early departure will be
entered as “excused” or unexcused” along with the District’s code for the
reason.
The actual number of
absences, not just those counting toward the maximum allowed, will
appear on Interim reports and report cards.
Missing More Than 20 Minutes of a Class:
If a student is not in attendance for at least twenty minutes of class, the
student will be marked absent. This absence will count toward the maximum number
of absences allowed unless the reason for the missed time is included in the
Exempted
Absences
section below. (See
Skip of class for disciplinary consequences.)
Notifying Students and Parents:
In addition to the attendance reported
on interim reports and report cards, teachers will send notices home when a
student reaches each 5-absence increment and also reaches two-thirds of
the maximum allowed absences.
Extending Opportunities To Make Up Missed Work:
It is the
student’s
responsibility to complete missed work in a timely manner.
A student has
the number of days absent plus one day to complete the missed work.
Teachers should make themselves available to respond to questions from
students about work missed. Only those students with excused absences
must be given the opportunity to make up a test and/or turn in a late
assignment for inclusion in the calculation of the performance portion of
their final grade.
The teacher is not obligated to extend the opportunity for
makeup work to students with unexcused absences. Makeup opportunities
may be denied to those with unexcused absences.
Attendance Review Committee:
In January and June, a committee will
review each case of excessive absences and the circumstances surrounding
the absences. The committee will be made up of the nurse, guidance
counselors, building administrators and the attendance officer. A form
requesting names and number of absences of students with excessive
absences will be sent to teachers two weeks prior to when grades are due.
Student Sign Outs:
Attendance is critical to success in school and in the
workplace. In an attempt to address academic and attendance concerns and
in response to concerns about student safety, it is necessary to limit traffic
in and out of school grounds and school buildings. It is with these
concerns in mind that we need to limit students coming and going
frequently during the day. Therefore the following procedures are instituted:
1. Students with an excuse for appointments must report to the attendance
office upon entering
the building in the morning. The excuse to leave
school should state the reason for leaving and be specific. A court appearance
must be validated with a letter either prior to leaving or upon return. Road
tests must be validated upon returning. Any excuse should be signed by a parent
or guardian, dated, and a phone number where the parent or guardian can be
reached for questions. Students not returning with a validation will be marked
as unexcused.
2. The attendance clerk and administrator will sign the excuse. The student
must use this excuse to
leave the class and then go to the reception area
to sign out.
3
Students attending NFEC must return to FA to sign out.
4. Upon returning from an appointment or an excused absence, students
must sign in.
5. NO student will be excused from school during study halls or lunchtime
except for a validated excuse and with administrative approval.
Students without a valid excuse must be signed out by their
parent/guardian.
A student without a valid excuse must be signed out by that student’s
parent or legal guardian.
A student will be required to make up work missed during the periods
of absence. This is the responsibility of the student.
Early releases via telephone may or may not be accepted at the
discretion of a building administrator
LONG TERM ASSIGNMENTS:
It is up to the discretion of the individual teacher as to the due date of long
term assignments. The teacher may request the assignment be due on the original
date regardless of the number of absences the student has after the assignment
is made.
PLANNED ABSENCES:
Students must see each teacher whose class will
be missed at least two (2) days prior to the absence to make arrangements for
class work and/or homework. Homework that is due the day the student is going to
be absent must be turned in prior to the absence. If possible, the test and
quizzes should be made up prior to the absence.
Assignments should be turned in on the day after the absence; the 1day +
1day allowance does not apply for planned absences.
TARDY TO SCHOOL/ PARTICIPATION IN SCHOOL EVENTS:
A student who is absent from school or arrives late to school will not be
allowed to attend or participate in events which are scheduled during or after
the school day; for example, athletic contests, concerts, plays, etc., unless
the tardiness is for a legal/ excused reason.
SUSPENSION/HOME TUTOR:
Students who are receiving home tutor
services due to illness and students receiving home tutor services as the result
of a suspension shall be maintained on our attendance records. When a student
refuses such services, they shall be marked as an unexcused absence for the day
services were not received.
CLASS ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES:
1. The teacher is to note all absences in each class. Daily absences should be
checked against the
attendance list, field trip notices, appointments, etc.
2. Absences must be recorded.
3. When a student is not in class and not on an absence list, an irregular
absence
form will be filled out
and sent to the office.
4. The student will receive a "O" for any work in class the day of the cut.
Detention will be
assigned by the administration on a progressive basis. A
detention notice will
be sent home.
TARDY TO CLASS:
Teachers should not condone lateness to class.
When a student arrives late, the class should not be disrupted. The
teacher should give the student a "Tardy Explanation Slip" to fill out.
3 tardies to
a class, study hall, etc. will result in disciplinary action. Tardies
after the first three will also result in progressive disciplinary action.
In the event of chronic tardiness, parents will be contacted and no credit may
be given for the course.
It is critical for students to be in class on
time. Late is late – even if it is by seconds.
It is the student’s responsibility to arrive at school and report to class,
study
hall, and lunch on time. Three unexcused tardies to class, school, etc., are
equivalent to an absence and will be referred to the office. A student who
arrives to class more than three minutes after the bell will be referred to the
office.
Any unexcused tardy of more than 10 minutes is considered a
cut of class,
and referred to the office.
*Number of tardies are recorded for the entire year and not reset to
zero at the beginning of each quarter.
ATTENDANCE AT SUMMER SCHOOL:
Many students from
Parents and students should be aware that in order to attend a
summer school course for credit a student must meet minimum grade
and attendance requirements:
Minimum Grade and Minimum Attendance for Summer School:
Students who have excessive absences may be denied the privilege of attending
summer school. Students who exceed more than 20 days of absences in a full-year
course, 10 days for a half year course, or 25 days for a lab science course will
not be allowed to attend summer school for credit.
Students who do not meet a minimum course average will not be allowed to take
the course in summer school for credit. A student who has a course average of
less than 55 will not be allowed to attend the summer school course for credit.
Students who do not qualify for credit in a course may take the course for skill
building or for academic intervention purposes.
If a student fails a course the options are:
1. Enroll in summer school if the student qualifies and work for an average that
earns credit; or
2. Enroll in the course in the following academic school year.
Parents and students should be aware that the following procedure will be used
to determine a final grade as a result of summer school.
Grade Weighting of Summer School Average and Yearly Average:
The following is the grade weighting for all students that attend a summer
school program:
|
|
Yearly Grade |
Summer School Grade |
Final Grade |
|
Grade |
55 |
75 |
|
|
Weighting |
.5 |
.5 |
|
|
Average |
27.5 |
37.5 |
65 |
It is the position of the District and the high school family that students
should not be rewarded for missing school or failing to work during the school
year. The changes in graduation requirements require that the school, parents,
and student work together to allow a student to be successful. The best chance
that a student has to be successful is to attend school during the regular
school year and provide a maximum effort during this time.
It is also important to note that students may not "double up" on
sequential courses. That is, to take
the next level of a course, the student must successfully complete the prior
sequential course. For example, students may not take English 10 until they have
successfully completed English 9. The Administration and the District requires
that no student be permitted to enroll in a higher level course unless s/he has
achieved an average of 65 or higher in the previous course.
An exception to this policy may apply during a student’s fourth year of
high school. See your counselor for
information on the appeal process.
HEALTH SERVICE:
A student who feels the need to go to the Health Office
should have permission from a staff member prior to reporting to the Health
Office. If that is not possible,
the student should tell the nurse that s/he did not report to the office so that
the nurse can notify the office. Parental permission is REQUIRED before a
student may be sent home. S/he must sign out from the reception desk before
leaving school.
If a student is signing out from the
All medications should be handed to the school nurse as soon as a student
arrives on campus. No student should have prescription
and/or nonprescription drugs in his/her possession while at school.
WORKING PAPERS:
Students under 18 years of age who need working
papers should see the building secretary for an application.
TEXTBOOKS, WORKBOOKS, AND OTHER INSTRUCTIONAL AIDS:
Most textbooks, workbooks, and lab materials will be provided to
students. The student is responsible to return the books in good condition.
Loss or damage to the book will result in a charge. A student’s grades may be
withheld until all charges are paid in full. Some classes may require the
students to purchase Regents review books. Some additional supplies may also
need to be purchased by the students.
LOST AND FOUND:
Students who lose items or have items stolen should go to the office to obtain
proper forms. Items that are found should be brought to the office.
INTERNET ACCESS:
The technology of the internet enhances the library
facility by making research material and articles available for use. Students
who wish to use the internet may do so in the library under supervision of the
librarian. The student must comply with District policy governing the use of
the internet, have parental permission and an authorization card from the
office.
COMPUTERS:
Computers are available for students' use. The computers are available in the
library. Students who wish to use the computers should do so during study hall.
They must report directly to the library and sign the appropriate study hall
list. Misuse of the district’s computers may result in the suspension of the
privilege to use school computers, as well as disciplinary action.
STUDENT ACTIVITIES:
There are many sports, clubs, and activities for
students. The following is a list. To obtain more information about the
activity, refer to the Franklin Academy Extra Classroom Activity booklet which
can be obtained in the main office.
Fall
SPORTS
Winter
Boys' Soccer (M, JV, V)*
Boys' Basketball (M, JV, V)
Girls' Soccer (M, JV, V)
Girls' Basketball (M, JV, V)
Football (M, JV, V)
Boys' Swimming (V)
Cheerleading (JV, V)
Hockey (V)
Cross Country (M, V)
Boys' Indoor Track (V)
Girls' Swimming (V)
Girls' Indoor Track (V)
Volleyball (JV, V)
Wrestling (M, JV, V)
Spring
Baseball (M, JV, V)
THE ATHLETIC POLICY IS
Golf (V)
AVAILABLE FROM THE
Softball (JV, V)
ATHLETIC DIRECTOR OR
Boys' Track (M, V)
COACH.
Girls' Track (M, V)
* M=Modified JV=Junior Varsity V=Varsity
CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS
Epsilon Society
Yearbook
Phi Sigma Sorority
National Honor Society
Student Council
Forensics
Technology Club
Spanish Club
Varsity Club
F.A. Players - Drama
Travel Club
French Club
International Relations Club
Outdoor Club
Business Club
The Underground
Chess Club
Young Politicians
Junior Humane Society
FA Speak Out
Model UN
Allegro Club
Art Club
Rotary Interact
STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Responsibilities:
In order to ensure the rights of all students, the following
student responsibilities must be maintained:
1. Attend school.
2. Use class and study hall for learning.
3. Respect the rights of others in the class and on school grounds.
4. Use school materials with care and return them on time.
5. Obey school rules and regulations and the Board of Education policies.
6. Maintain good mental and physical health and seek help when necessary.
7. Respect and follow established guidelines for school organizations.
Rights:
Students attending
1. Appropriate education.
2. Safe environment without disruptions or unreasonable fear of injury or
threats.
3. Access to school-provided resources and materials.
4. Assistance from school staff.
5. To address the Board of Education.
6. Politely express opinions and present version of facts and circumstances.
7. Information regarding school rules and disciplinary process.
8. Participation in student organization or creation of new activities under
school guidelines.
9. Informal conference concerning disciplinary actions.
10. Fair treatment.
The general guidelines for student conduct at
been aligned with the
to the
information.
The maintenance of a safe and orderly environment is essential to providing a
quality education. It is the feeling of staff and administration at
Academy that behaviors which are essential to success in school, in the
workplace, and throughout life should be promoted. In those instances when
students make choices which interfere with their education or the education of
others, it is important that students be held responsible for their actions. In
any
society, certain procedures are necessary to protect individual rights, ensure
safety and promote general well being.
A school which is a small society, is no different. There are choices to be made
within society, and choices within the school community, all which result in
some type of consequence. Therefore, the Board of Education expects all
students to abide by the district's policies and procedures.
Any action that disrupts the educational process will result in
disciplinary consequences. Disciplinary actions will be carried out
fairly and as promptly as possible. A consequence may be more
or less severe because of circumstances in an individual's
disciplinary record.
Students attending school events on other sites(airport field, ice
arena,
rules and are under the jurisdiction of the
District.
GENERAL DISCIPLINE STEP POLICY:
In many cases, conferences
between the teacher and student may occur before office referrals are
made. When administrative disciplinary action is necessary for violations
of conduct or class attendance, the following Step Policy will be followed.
The policy is a blend of firmness and concern for student welfare. Chronic
offenders will move up in the steps and receive more severe consequences.
Furthermore, students who display improvement of behavior will move
down in steps.
Step 1 - Notification to parents; possible assignment of after-school
detention.
Step ll - Notification to parents; multiple nights of after school detention
assigned or in-school
detention time.
Step lll - Multiple days of in-school detention or multiple nights of after-
school detention. Parent conference with building administration.
Step lV - Suspension from school. Possible referral to alternative
education setting.
Reinstatement conference with building
administration.
Step V - Conference with principal to discuss possible Superintendent's
Hearing for exclusion from school or alternative plans for education.
The following list of offenses is subject to
Steps 1-V
in the above
GENERAL
DISCIPLINE STEP POLICY:
|
1. Forgery |
10. Insubordination |
|
2. Misuse of pass |
11. Excessive tardiness to class/school |
|
3. Unreturned library materials |
12. Drinking/ Eating outside of the cafeteria |
|
4. No homework/ class work |
13. Improper school attire |
|
5. Persistent disruption of class |
14. Use of radios, tape players, beepers, cell phones, CD players, MP3
players |
|
6. Offensive or vulgar language |
15. Inappropriate use of a motor vehicle |
|
7. Public display of affection |
16. Possession of paraphernalia that may be used for smoking including
lighters and matches. |
|
8. Skipping detention |
17. Failure to report to any office when called or given a written
notice |
|
9. Skipping class |
|
The following actions will be considered General Step lV or V Offenses and may
result in immediate suspension (in-school or out-of-school)
regardless of the student's previous disciplinary record. [The following list
does not include all items which may be considered inappropriate behavior.]
Violations of the district's code of conduct which may result in immediate
suspension:
1. Willfull defacement or destruction of school property.
2. Verbal confrontation (ie: obscene language directed at students or staff)
3. Harassment of students or staff.
4.
Possession of weapons on school grounds.
5. Fighting or physical altercation with students or staff members.
6. Smoking or use of smokeless tobacco
7. Possession or use of illegal substances (tobacco, drugs, alcohol).
8. False alarm or bomb scare.
TRUANCY:
Truancy is the willful violation by a student of the compulsory attendance
provisions of the Education Law which require minors from 6 to 16 or 17 years of
age to attend school full time.
If a student leaves the school building without permission, for any period
of time, the student is considered to be truant. This will result in a
minimum of 5 Level II detentions.
"Unexcused" absences, tardiness and early departures may result in disciplinary
sanctions as described in the District's Code of Conduct.
ELECTRONIC DEVICES:
No cell phones, radios, CD players, tape players, game-boys, MP3 players, laser
pointers, etc. may be used on school property
during school hours. Use of these items on school
property, during the school day will result in their confiscation.
They will be returned at the discretion of the building administration.
ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY FOR
DEVICES
Acceptable and Restricted Uses:
Student use of electronic paging or two way
communication devices (e.g., beepers/ cellular phones) during school hours is
prohibited, except as specifically authorized by the building principal. Any
student found violating this policy shall be disciplined accordingly.
Consequences of Violations:
1.
Immediate confiscation of the involved device(s) or media as appropriate
depending upon the nature and severity of the violation, the confiscated
device(s) or media may be held in evidence indefinitely.
2. Students may be allowed to retrieve their device at the end of the day.
3. Students parents will have to come into school and retrieve the device.
4. Detention,
suspension, or expulsion as deemed appropriate by school/district
administration.
PLAGARISM:
All forms of academic dishonesty are considered serious offenses within the
school community. A student who commits such an offense runs the risk of a range
of sanctions including failure in the course.
Academic dishonesty includes plagiarism as well as any deliberate attempt
to gain unfair advantage academically for oneself or others. Dishonest practices
including fabrication of data, cheating or plagiarism. Plagiarism means
presenting work done (in whole or part) by someone else as if it were one’s own.
The consequences for plagiarism range from a mark of zero on the assignment to a
failing grade in the course.
PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION:
Public displays of affection are not allowed. Physical contact, other than
holding hands, is not acceptable.
Students engaging in inappropriate activity will be asked to stop and may be
referred to the office.
INSUBORDINATION:
Being insubordinate is the failure to recognize or accept the authority of
someone in a position of authority. For example, refusing to do something when
asked by any MCSD employee is an act of
insubordination.
CONSUMPTION OF FOOD IN THE BUILDING:
Food and drink will only be allowed in the cafeteria area and in the classroom
as per teacher direction.
Take out foods are not allowed in
the cafeteria.
OPEN CONTAINERS:
Possession of open containers of any type (styrofoam cups, bottles, cans) will
not be allowed at anytime on school property other than in the classroom as per
teacher discretion.
INAPPROPRIATE USE OF A MOTOR VEHICLE:
Students who park
in unauthorized parking lots or drive recklessly will lose campus parking
privileges and may face other disciplinary consequences
WEAPONS IN SCHOOL:
Action will be taken as is necessary to protect the
safety and welfare of the students and to secure the educational environment
within the school. A student may not bring nor have in his/her possession on
school property at any time any knife, dangerous chemical, explosive (including
caps and fireworks), poison gas, air gun, spring-gun, or other
instrument or weapon, or any loaded or blank cartridges or ammunition, laser
pointer or any other instrument that may be capable of inflicting bodily harm.
A student who is found to have violated this policy will be subject to
disciplinary action up to and including mandatory one year suspension from
school pursuant to federal law. The proper authorities may be contacted.
FIGHTING:
Any
student involved in a physical altercation at
HARASSMENT or BULLYING OF STUDENTS OR TEACHERS:
Verbal, physical or sexual harassment or bullying of a student or teacher by
other individuals will not be tolerated. Harassment or bullying can be physical,
one or more students hurting another or they can be verbal and include
persistent threatening, teasing or ridicule or talking about another person. The
following process is recommended if a person feels that they are being bullied
or harassed:
1. The person should
tell the harasser that they object to the comment or action and that they want
it to stop.
2. If the harassment
continues, the person should write down the times,
places, witnesses, and what happened.
3. Report the incident
to someone (teacher, guidance counselor, Assistant
Principal, Principal). School officials are required by law to check out all
complaints. Incidents of harassment will be dealt with by the Administration.
The District is committed to safeguarding the rights of all students
within the District to learn in an environment that is free from harassment on
the basis of sex, sexual preference, race, color, and
national origin.
Conduct is deemed to be sexual harassment when the student perceives such
behavior as unwelcome, such as inappropriate touching, verbal comments, sexual
name calling, spreading rumors, gestures, jokes, or
pictures. Examples of racial or ethnic harassment would include unwanted
verbal comments: racial name calling; racial or ethnic slurs; slogans or
graffiti; intimidating actions such as cross burning or painting swastikas; or
treating students differently on the basis of race.
SMOKING STEP POLICY:
Step I -Administrator contacts parents and assigns (3) days of after-school
detention.
Step II -Administrator contacts parents and assigns 3-5 days suspension from
school. Possible hearing with the Department of Health which may
result in the imposition of a fine.
Step III - Parents meet with Principal to discuss possible Superintendent's
Hearing for expulsion from school or alternative plans for education.
Alternative consequences may be assigned at the discretion of the
administration.
USE OF ILLEGAL DRUGS:
Students smoking in the building, on school grounds, or in district owned
vehicles are subject to suspension. The use or possession of any tobacco related
products may result in suspension. Students who use or are found to be under the
influence of or in possession of alcohol or drugs are subject to suspension from
school. Legal action may be taken
when the law has been broken. In all violations related to tobacco, drugs or
alcohol, students must attend counseling sessions following administrative
action. Students are not allowed to possess or use tobacco products, alcohol or
other drugs at any school event. Any weapon or illegal drug that is confiscated
may be turned over to the police.
Any confiscated item may be released only to the parent or legal guardian.
The school is not responsible for such items after a period of one month.
AFTER-SCHOOL DETENTION GUIDELINES:
1. Students must
be seated in the detention room by
arrives at detention between 2:30 and 2:35 with no pass they must complete a
late slip. If a student reports to detention after
2. Students must bring
enough work and materials to stay busy for the entire
duration of detention.
3. Students will remain
seated with their feet on the floor, head up, and eyes
open at all times. Silence is expected at all times. Eating, drinking,
sleeping, note passing and other disruptive activity will not be permitted.
4. Students who choose
to disrupt detention will not receive credit for the time served and must
re-serve the detention. In addition, further disciplinary action may result.
5. When a student is
not in detention on the assigned day without
prior
approval by an administrator,
it will be considered a skip of
detention.
Skipping detention may result in being assigned In-School
Detention.
Assignment to In-School Detention does
not
take away the
original
detention. Repeated skips may result in
suspension from school.
Communication from a parent/ guardian or employer after a student misses
detention will not be accepted. The missed detention will still be
considered a skip.
Communication about rescheduling of a student’s detention must take place
prior
to a student’s missing detention. If a student is to be excused for a family
emergency, personal reasons, etc. a parent or guardian must sign the student out
of school and inform administration so detention may be scheduled for the next
night.
A level I detention will end at 3:30. A level II detention will end at 5:00,
unless otherwise indicated by an administrator.
GUIDELINES FOR IN SCHOOL DETENTION (ISD):
1. Students will sit in
assigned seats. Students may not wear coats or
jackets in the ISD room.
2. There will be no
talking among students. Students must remain
seated and working on their assignments.
3. Students will be
seated with feet on the floor, head up, and eyes
open at all times.
4. There will be a
daily seating chart. Once you have been assigned
a seat, you must remain there.
5. Students may not go
to their lockers for any reason. You should do
so before you enter the ISD room.
6. Students who are not
prepared to do school work or do not have an
assignment must sit quietly.
7. There will be a
daily progress report given to your teachers.
8. Students are
responsible for completing assignments and returning
them to ISD staff. Assignments not completed will receive a “zero”.
Teachers may report all incomplete or missing assignments to the
office for further disciplinary action
9. There will be two
daily bathroom breaks. Once in the morning and
once in the afternoon.
10. Food and drinks are only permitted in ISD during the designated
lunch period.
11. There will be no talking when escorted out of ISD.
12. Students will respect each other and staff.
13. Students who refuse to follow the guidelines for ISD will be assigned
additional ISD or will be suspended from school.
LOCKERS:
School lockers both in the corridor and in the gymnasium locker rooms, desks and
other equipment are the property of the school and may be subject to search at
the discretion of school officials.
KEEP LOCKERS LOCKED AT ALL TIMES. THE DISTRICT IS NOT
RESPONSIBLE FOR ITEMS TAKEN OUT OF LOCKERS.
STUDENT SEARCHES:
If there is reasonable cause to believe that a student is in violation of school
rules a search of the student and his/her possessions may occur.
It should be understood that any object,
possession or item on school property may be searched. This includes
but is not limited to: clothing, book bags, purses, lockers and vehicles.
VISITORS:
Student visitors are not allowed at
Adult visitors must report directly to the reception desk, sign in and receive a
pass. Any person who is in the building or on school property without permission
of the high school administration is subject to arrest for criminal trespass.
ANY ILLEGAL ACTIVITY WILL BE DEALT WITH BY THE APPROPRIATE AUTHORITIES.
Consequences will be consistent with
the nature of the offense. During the period of the investigation, school
administration has the authority to establish an appropriate sanction.
To avoid misunderstandings, the following explanations are made:
à
DEPOSIT BOOKBAG AND COATS IN LOCKERS:
Bookbags may
be used to carry supplies to and from
school. Bookbags and coats must be
stored in lockers during the day.
à
ENVIRONMENT.
No person is allowed to smoke or use tobacco products
on
à
ENTERING AND EXITING THE BUILDING:
Students must enter
and exit through the single access at
the front of the building. Students
entering or leaving the building
through any other access point may be
subject to disciplinary action.
à
DRIVING TO SCHOOL AND PARKING ON CAMPUS IS A
PRIVILEGE.
Students who wish to park on campus must register their
vehicles in the office and receive a
parking tag. Seniors will receive preference. If there are no student spaces
available, the student must park
off campus.
Students who park inappropriately in school lots or drive
recklessly will lose parking privileges and may face other
disciplinary consequences.
à
INCOMING PHONE CALLS:
for students must be from a parent or a
legal guardian. We will attempt to
deliver
important
messages from
parents,
However,
this is not always possible.
à
OUTGOING CALLS:
Students may use the telephone in the main lobby
between classes or during their lunch
period with approval from office
personnel or an administrator.
à
that the Franklin Academy Discipline
Policy has been developed as a result
of the recent SAVE legislation. District
and School codes of Conduct have
been aligned with this legislation.
PROPER SCHOOL ATTIRE: This policy is in accordance with the NYS SAVE
legislation.
Cleanliness and decency in clothing is required. In
order to maintain an educational environment that promotes learning and
prepares the student to enter the working world, it is necessary to establish a
guideline for appropriate student attire. Student attire should not be offensive
in a way that interferes with another student's right or one's own right to a
safe
comfortable school that promotes growth in self-esteem.
Clothing, attire, accessories and/or footwear which has or bears an expression
or an insignia which is lewd, obscene, indecent or libelous (that is, contains
objectionable language, including insult, whether directed at themselves or
others), advocates racial or religious prejudice, or interferes with the
learning
process is prohibited. Also prohibited is clothing and/or accessories that
promote, or advocate the possession, use, or distribution of illegal drugs/
alcohol or drug/alcohol paraphernalia, and clothing and/or accessories which
cause a substantial disruption or interferes with the learning process of the
school.
Specifically-A student’s dress, grooming and appearance, including hair style/
color, jewelry and nails, shall be safe, appropriate and not disrupt or
interfere
with the educational process.
For further clarification, the following guidelines are provided:
ü
Extremely brief garments such as tube tops, net tops, spaghetti straps,
plunging necklines (front and/ or back), see through garments and short
shorts are not appropriate. (Please note: Items such as vests and shirts worn as
partial cover-ups do not make wearing of these items appropriate.)
ü
Pants must be held up high enough with a belt so that underwear is not
exposed.
ü
Students may not wear hats, or bandannas, etc. in the building. In
addition, students should not wear heavy winter jackets in class or in the halls
at any time.
ü
Chains on wallets or clothes are not permitted.
The school administration may require a student to change his/her attire prior
to returning to class should it be deemed inappropriate. The student's parent or
guardian may be called and the student will be responsible for any work missed
in a class as a result. Repeated infractions of the dress code may lead to
disciplinary consequences.
STUDY HALLS:
All students assigned to study hall must report to that study hall each day it
is on their schedule. Students may present a pre-signed pass to other areas.
Study hall staff reserves the right to deny the student’s use of a
pre-signed pass if he/she arrives late to study hall. Students are not to be in
the
gym or music area without a pre-signed pass. Students are permitted to go to
the library to do work which requires library materials. Students should be
certain to account for their presence at all times since any absence from study
hall will be treated as a cut from class. Students who go to the library are to
remain in the library until the bell signals the end of the period. Permission
must be secured if a student wishes to leave the study hall or resource area to
use the restrooms. Reasonable limits will be imposed on the time that the
student is gone. The number of students to leave study hall at any given time
will be limited.
PASS SYSTEM:
All students must have a pass with them anytime he/she is out of a classroom
during class time.
ACADEMIC REGULATION:
The purpose of the Academic Regulation
is to encourage students to do well academically. It is a privilege for students
to participate in extracurricular activities. It is important for students to
realize that schoolwork must come first.
For the purpose of this policy, an incomplete
will be treated as a failure until a passing grade is received for that
particular course. There will be a
one day grace period after interim reports and report cards are handed out.
This is in place in the case of an error in recording a students grade.
Students' grades will be checked at five and ten
week intervals (interim reports and quarterly report cards). Students who are
failing more than one course will not be eligible to participate in
extracurricular activities for a ten school day probation period.
Extracurricular activities include but are not limited to dances, the prom,
school plays, clubs, athletic contests, etc.
Students who are failing more than one course
will be eligible to attend school events which are open to the public. All
students will be allowed to participate in school activities during
Thanksgiving, Christmas, winter
(February) and spring (April) breaks, regardless
of the students' academic status.
At the end of the ten school day probation
period, students who are failing more than one subject should obtain a
verification form in the main office or from Miss Kilcullen. If the verification
form is signed by the teacher(s) of the classes that the student was failing and
the student is then failing no more than one subject, the student will return to
good standing status. The completed form should be turned in at the main office
or to Miss Kilcullen. It is the student's responsibility to have his or her
verification form signed and returned. Once the student has verified passing
grades with a building administrator or the Athletic Director he/she will be
eligible to return to full participation in extracurricular activities.
(See below for specific information in regard
to athletics.)
All athletic team coaches, club and after school
activity advisors will be required to turn in a roster to the main office. This
roster will be crosschecked with the failing list and the coaches/advisors will
be informed of which students are ineligible to participate in such activities.
Specific Information for Students
Participating on Athletic Teams
Students who are failing more than one subject
will serve a ten school day probation period that will begin on the date that
reports are distributed. During this ten school day probation period, all
athletes who are failing more than one subject will be assigned to 9th
period study hall. Attendance in 9th
period study hall is required.
Failure to report to study hall will result in
disciplinary action. The student will continue to practice with the team and
attend contests as scheduled unless there is a conflict with the departure time
for an away contest interfering with 9th
period study hall. In case of such
conflict, the student will be required to attend 9th
period study hall rather than
attending the away contest. At the end of the ten
school day probationary period, students who are failing no more than one
subject will be eligible to return to practice and/or competition. Students who
are still failing two or more subjects at the end of the 10 school day
probationary period are not eligible to return to/try-out for a team.
A student who is placed on academic probation
more than one time in a single sport season will be dismissed from the team.
Guidance
Department
12th
GRADE CLASSROOM PRESENTATIONS
The FA Guidance Counselors
visit all senior English classrooms in September to review this general
information. Each senior will meet
individually with his or her counselor to discuss graduation requirements and
post-graduation plans.
A great deal of valuable
information can also be found on the guidance webpage
www.malonecsd.org
(click on
College application procedures:
SUNY applications:
The application for
For private colleges, you
may apply online by going to the college’s website or by using a uniform
application known as the Common Application.
Private college applications usually require an essay, secondary school
report, and teacher recommendations (usually two required).
When asking a teacher for a
recommendation, follow these guidelines:
n
Ask the teacher
well in advance of the application deadline!!!
n
Provide the
teacher with forms required for the Common Application, or the individual
college.
n
Provide the
teacher with relevant information about yourself to write an accurate
recommendation.
n
Ask the teacher to
forward the letter of recommendation to your counselor so that it will be
included in the application packet.
All completed paper applications should be
brought to your counselor.
We will include your official transcript
(your transcript includes all coursework, SAT/ACT scores and extra curricular
activities, rank and average) and letters of recommendation.
Each application is reviewed for accuracy, photocopied and mailed by us.
You do not have to put postage on the envelope.
All applications are weighed and have the appropriate postage.
If you apply online, remember to
complete a request to send transcript form available in the Guidance Office.
SAT and ACT:
Think about retaking your
SAT and ACT. As you know, colleges
accept the highest scores. The
SAT/ACT dates are:
SAT:
ACT:
Registration deadlines will
be given during classroom presentations.
They are typically about five weeks before the tests.
Pay close attention to deadline, as there are late fees required if you
are not on time.
Some very selective colleges
require SAT II (Subject Tests).
Most colleges do not require these one hour exams.
However, check the college website or catalog if you are not sure.
SAT Subject Tests are offered on the same dates as the SAT.
You can not take SAT Subject
Test(s) and the SAT on the same day.
Fee waivers for SAT and ACT
are available in the guidance office for qualifying students.
See your counselor if you think you are eligible for a fee waiver.
Scholarships
During guidance visits to
English classes, each student is given a scholarship booklet.
This is a guide for students and parents to use in order to determine
potential scholarships. Because
scholarship availability changes each year, this should be used only as a
reference.
For current scholarships, check the
scholarship board (next to the guidance office) or our webpage,
www.malonecsd.org
(click on
Pay attention to deadlines;
the due date that is listed on the scholarship board is the date the application
should be received by a particular organization.
Your application should be mailed at least a week before the deadline.
Armed Forces Vocational Aptitude
This test is required for
anyone wishing to join any branch of the armed services.
It will be administered on Saturday, November 7th at
College admissions representatives
Scheduled visits are posted
outside the guidance office, and on our webpage.
Students wishing to see a representative should get a pass from guidance
the day before the visit.
Higher
These are usually held at
St. Lawrence University from
11th
Grade Classroom Presentations
The FA Guidance Counselors
visit all junior English classrooms in early October,
to review this general information.
Each junior will meet individually with his or her counselor later in the
year to discuss senior year courses, future plans, and college entrance exams.
A great deal of valuable
information can also be found on the guidance webpage -
www.malonecsd.org (click on
PSAT –
If you wish to attend a four
year college/university, you should take this test.
Student who wish to attend a community college are welcome to take this
test, but it is not mandatory.
Your PSAT results will be
distributed by the Guidance Department in your English class in early December.
By taking the PSAT you
receive free access to My Road—College Board’s online college, major, and career
exploration tool—for the duration of high school.
My Road contains a personality profiler, major and career suggestions,
profiles of academic fields, and articles covering more than 450 occupations.
Register no later than Thursday, October 8.
Registration forms will be
distributed during classroom visits, and should be returned, along with the
appropriate fee to the Guidance Office.
Checks should be made out to
SAT test dates at
ACT test dates at
Registration deadlines will
be given during classroom presentations.
They are typically about five weeks before the tests.
Pay close attention to deadline, as there are late fees required if you
are not on time.
Some very selective colleges
require SAT II (Subject Tests).
Most colleges do not require these one hour exams.
However, check the college website or catalog if you are not sure.
SAT Subject Tests are offered on the same dates as the SAT.
You can not take SAT Subject
Test(s) and the SAT on the same day.
Fee waivers for the SAT and
ACT are available in the Guidance Office for qualifying students.
See your counselor if you think you are eligible for a fee waiver.
Armed Forces Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB)
This test is required for
anyone wishing to join any branch of the armed services.
It will be administered on Saturday, November 7th at
College admissions representatives
Scheduled visits are posted
outside the Guidance Office, and on our webpage.
Students wishing to see a representative should get a pass from Guidance
the day before the visit.
Higher
These are usually held at
St. Lawrence University from