The mission of the Warren County School District is to educationally empower all students to think critically and solve problems through a rigorous curriculum that will provide them with the skills necessary to graduate and pursue a career of their interest.
To promote student growth and achievement, an effective school board models responsible governance and leadership by: (1) interacting with school officials in other districts and using resources provided by organizations and agencies committed to effective governance and management of public schools, and (2) complying with board policy and all applicable local, state and federal laws and regulations, and an effective School Board advocates for a thorough and efficient system of public education by maintaining legislative awareness and communicating with members of local, state and federal legislative bodies.
Executive Summary
Executive Summary
1. IU5 - Mr. Paul Mangione
2. PSBA Liaison - Mr. Arthur Stewart
3. Career Center Advisory - Mrs. Marcy Morgan, Mr. Michael Zamborik
| 1. | April 15, 2015 | All Day | A.W. Beattie Career Center & Technical School Tour | Pittsburgh, PA |
| 2. | April 19-20, 2015 | All Day | 2015 Advocacy Forum - PSBA | Mechanicsburg, PA/Harrisburg, PA |
| 3. |
April 20, 2015 or April 27, 2015 |
6:00 p.m. | Budget Work Session (Tentative) | Central Office - Russell |
| 4. | April 22, 2015 | 12:05 p.m. | Board Visit | SAMHS/SAES |
| 5. | April 27, 2015 | 6:00 p.m. |
Physical Plant & Facilities Committee Curriculum, Instruction & Technology Personnel, Athletics, & Co-Curricular Activities Committee Finance Committee
|
Central Office - Russell |
| 6. | May 11, 2015 | 7:00 p.m. | Regular Board Meeting | Central Office - Russell |
Executive Summary
Executive Summary
Athletic Supplemental Contracts
Executive Summary
This is the normal process for a purchase request for property that is not on the tax rolls due to non-payment of taxes.
A public bid opening was held on March 17, 2015 for the project known as the Waste Disposal and Recycling Services Re-bid (WCSD #1404R). Bid results are attached.
Board approval of submission of PlanCon J to the Pennsylvania Department of Education for the project known as the Youngsville Elementary Middle School (PDE #2677).
That the Board of School Directors approves the Open-ended Architectural/Engineering agreements, pending solicitor's review, in an amount not to exceed the DGS fee schedule for design and construction supervision.
Executive Summary
Executive Summary
Executive Summary
Executive Summary
Executive Summary
Executive Summary
That the Board of School Directors approves a change order to Blackhawk Neff, Inc. for the project known as the Sheffield Area Middle/High School Elementary Addition and Improvements (WCSD #1204), in the amount of $47,050.00 for work required to add additional security cameras to the project.
Executive Summary
Compliance officers designated by the Board are the Director of Human Resources Superintendent or his/her designees for (Title IX and related matters) and the Director of Student Assessment & Student Services (Section 504 and related matters). Their roles are to coordinate the District's efforts to comply with and carry out the responsibilities of all State and Federal requirements to prevent discrimination.
Any individual not employed by the District who believes he/she has been discriminated against should file a complaint in writing with the appropriate Compliance Officer.
Any employee who believes he/she has been discriminated against may file a complaint through the negotiated grievance procedure or the Compliance Officer as appropriate.
Adoption Date - September 13, 1999
Revision Date -
Review Date -
Legal Reference - Applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements
Cross Reference -
Executive Summary
The primary purpose of the regular meeting of the Board shall be to conduct, in public, the official business of the District by members of the Board.
An agenda shall be prepared for each meeting by the Superintendent and approved by the Board President or Board Vice-President which normally will include the following order of business:
1. Opening Activities
A. Call to Order
B. Pledge of Allegiance
C. Roll Call
D. Reading of the Mission Statement
E. Reading of the WCSD/PSBA Standards for Effective School
Governance and Code of Conduct
F. Recognitions & Presentations
E. G. Public Comment
F. H. Agenda Adoption
G. I. Approval of Minutes
H. J. Approval of Special Meeting Minutes
I. K. Approval of Financial Reports
J. L. Hearing Officer’s Report
2. President’s Statement
A. Reports and Information
B. Important Dates
C. Announcements
D. Other
3. Superintendent’s Report and Recommendations
A. General Comments
B. Informational Items
C. Committee Reports
D. Other
4. New Business – Consent Agenda
A. Consent Agenda
5. Items Removed for Separate Action
6. Future Business for Committee Review
7. Other
8. Closing Activities
A. Public Comment
B. Executive Session
C. Adjournment
On occasion it is necessary for the Board to meet and take formal action on issues that cannot be delayed until regular meeting dates. The president may call a special meeting to conduct, in public, stated business or at the written request of three school directors. Upon the president's failure or refusal to call a special meeting, such meeting may be called by a majority of the School Directors.
The order of business shall be as follows unless altered by the chairperson:
A. Call to Order
B. Pledge of Allegiance
B. C. Roll Call
D. Reading of the Mission Statement
E. Reading of the WCSD/PSBA Standards for Effective School Governance and
Code of Conduct
C. F. Hearing of Individuals and Representatives Public Comment
D. G. Transaction of Business for which Meeting was Called
E. H. Adjournment
This Policy addresses student distribution and/or posting of material on school property, at a school-sponsored event, or during transit to or from school or a school-sponsored event. This Policy does not govern the distribution and/or posting of material by District employees, which is governed by Policy 7240. This Policy does not govern the distribution and/or posting of material by citizens or community organizations, which is governed by Policy 11110.
Definitions for Purposes of this Policy
Distribution – Any delivery of material to others on school property, during a school-sponsored event, or during transit to or from school or a school-sponsored event, including but not limited to, hand delivery, placing material upon desks, or placing material in lockers.
Posting – Any public displaying of material on school property, at a school-sponsored event, or during transit to or from school or a school-sponsored event, including but not limited to, affixing such material to walls, doors, bulletin boards, easels, or the outside of lockers.
Material - any printed or written material meant for posting or distribution to others, including but not limited to fliers, invitations, announcements, pamphlets, and posters.
Unprotected Student Expression
The District respects the right of students to express themselves in word or symbol and to distribute and post material in areas designated for posting as a part of expression, to the extent guaranteed by the Commonwealth and United States Constitutions. However, those Constitutions do not protect all expression; material/expression that falls outside that protection is referred to, in this Policy, as “unprotected.” The District reserves the right to limit and prohibit manifestations of unprotected student material/expression. It is not possible to define all such material/expression, but such unprotected material/expression will likely be that which:
7. Is not prepared or sponsored by the District or a District employee, but that students could reasonably believe is prepared or sponsored by the District or a District employee.
Distribution and/or Posting of Material
The distribution and/or posting of material shall require the prior approval of the building principal, and the building principal shall determine the appropriate time, place, and manner for distribution and/or posting.
All material sought to be distributed or posted pursuant to this Policy shall contain the following disclaimer:
“THE CONTENT OF THIS MATERIAL IS IN NO WAY AFFILIATED WITH; SPONSORED, ENDORSED OR ADVOCATED BY; OR ADMINISTERED BY THE WARREN COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT.”
Students who distribute or post printed material shall be responsible for clearing any litter that results from their activity and shall schedule the distribution and/or posting so that the students do not miss instructional time.
Discipline For Engaging In Unprotected Expression
Students who distribute or post material in violation of this Policy or who continue the manifestation of unprotected expression after a person in authority orders that they cease and desist shall be subject to disciplinary action as set forth in the Student Discipline Code (Policy 10510).
Adoption Date - 5
Revision Date -
Review Date -
Legal Reference - 24 P.S. §5-510; 24 P.S. §5-511
- 22 Pa. Code §12.2; 22 Pa. Code §12.9
Cross Reference - Policy 10510, Policy 11110, Policy 7240
This Policy addresses distribution and/or posting of material on school property or at a school-sponsored event by citizens and community organizations. This Policy does not govern the distribution and/or posting of material by District employees, which is governed by Policy 7240. This Policy does not govern the distribution and/or posting of material by students, which is governed by Policy 10230.
Definitions for Purposes of this Policy
Distribution – delivering of material to others on school property or during a school-sponsored event; placing material upon desks, on or in lockers; or engaging in any other manner of delivery of material to others while on school property or during a school-sponsored event.
Posting – any public displaying of material on school property or at a school-sponsored event, including but not limited to, affixing such material to walls, doors, bulletin boards, easels, or the outside of lockers.
Material - any printed or written material meant for posting or distribution to others, including but not limited to fliers, invitations, announcements, pamphlets, and posters.
Citizens and Community Organizations – organizations, groups, or individuals that are not part of the school program, are not part of a school-sponsored activity or event, and are not organized pursuant to the Pennsylvania School Code or Board policy.
Distribution and/or Posting of Material
The District welcomes citizens and community groups to distribute and/or post material on school district property or at a school-sponsored event that provides information that may be of benefit to the students or employees of the District. The distribution and/or posting of material involving a solicitation for the sale of products or services is prohibited, unless the product or service has an educational purpose that is beneficial to the students of the District and is approved in advance by the building principal. The District also reserves the right to preclude citizens and community organizations from distributing and/or posting material on school district property or during a school-sponsored event when the District is permitted to do so pursuant to the Commonwealth and United States Constitutions or applicable law. Such material will likely be that which:
7. Is not prepared or sponsored by the District or a District employee, but that students could reasonably believe is prepared or sponsored by the District or a District employee.
When distribution and/or posting of material is permitted, it shall require the prior approval of the building principal, and the building principal shall determine the appropriate time, place, and manner for distribution and/or posting. To the extent that a citizen or community organization desires to rent/use a facility for the purpose of distributing material, the requirements of Policy 11401 must also be adhered to.
All material sought to be distributed or posted pursuant to this Policy shall contain the following disclaimer:
“THE CONTENT OF THIS MATERIAL IS IN NO WAY AFFILIATED WITH; SPONSORED, ENDORSED OR ADVOCATED BY; OR ADMINISTERED BY THE WARREN COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT.”
Citizens or community organization who distribute or post printed material shall be responsible for clearing any litter that results from their activity and shall schedule the distribution and/or posting so that the students do not miss instructional time.
Adoption Date - April 13, 2015
Revision Date -
Review Date -
Legal Reference - 24 P.S. § 5-510; 24 P.S. § 5-511; 24 P.S. § 7-775
Cross Reference - Policy 7240; Policy 10230; Policy 11401
1. In order to provide a safe and effective learning environment, the District must maintain discipline in the face of student misconduct. This policy is intended to provide a general outline and code for the manner in which discipline will be handled. The student is reminded that this Discipline Policy does not stand alone. Other District policy sections also relate to student conduct, including but not limited to the Student Search Policy and the Co-Curricular Activities Policy.
The District acknowledges that student discipline (including suspensions and expulsions) is governed by Title 22, Chapter 12 of the Pennsylvania Code. It is the District’s Policy that all discipline (and specifically suspensions and expulsions) shall be administered in accordance with Title 22, Chapter 12 of the Pennsylvania Code, which is incorporated herein by reference.
2. SCOPE OF THIS DISCIPLINE CODE
This code will govern behavior and circumstances that occur during school or school related activities, on District property, and during a student’s transit to or from school or school related activities. Additionally, this policy may apply to conduct that does not occur during school or school related activities, on District property, or during a student’s transit to or from school or school related activities if the conduct causes a substantial disruption to the operation of the school, or the administration reasonably anticipates that the conduct is likely to cause a substantial disruption to the operation of the school.
This code gives a general description as to consequences that the District will impose through its system of discipline. The student should be aware that in addition to the consequences of this code the student may also be subject to criminal prosecution for misconduct that rises to the criminal level.
3. HOW TO UNDERSTAND THIS CODE
Described in the paragraphs below are general categories of misconduct. For the most part, these categories are described in one or two words; the categories are intended to be very general in nature and broad in their scope. When a student is disciplined for misconduct, the consequence of the misconduct will usually be the consequence(s) set forth in numerical order under the applicable general category. When more than one category applies, the District may impose discipline under the category or categories it believes most applicable.
The discipline outline herein will be carried out in accordance with the laws of Pennsylvania. However, this code cannot anticipate every possible circumstance or type of misconduct. Therefore, this code is intended to serve as a general guide applicable to most, but not all situations. For certain infractions, it is explicitly stated that discipline greater than or less than the identified discipline can be imposed. However, even if not explicitly stated, Ggreater or lesser discipline, alternative referrals, or other alternatives or action not necessarily set forth herein may be taken or imposed, depending upon the circumstance of the infraction.
The student must be aware that the District cannot police every instance of misconduct. Because the District does not impose discipline upon a student for misconduct is no reason to believe that the District will not impose discipline for the same misconduct the next time it occurs. When two or more students are involved in misconduct, the fact that the District does not impose discipline upon one of those students is no reason to believe that the District will not impose discipline upon the other student(s).
In addition to the discipline described below, the student is advised that the District may also confiscate any items used in association with misconduct (such as tobacco, cheat sheets, weapons, diskettes, beepers, telephone, alcohol, etc.). The student is also advised that student misconduct will also result in police notification if, at the District’s discretion, the misconduct rises to the level of criminal behavior or if police notification is required by law.
From time to time the consequences listed below include the phrase “or other disciplinary action”. That phrase is intended to include suspension, expulsion, or referral to the hearing officer. Other disciplinary measures, including but not necessarily limited to detention, community service, restitution, educational project, letters of apology, and/or referrals for counseling or to a Student Assistance Program (SAP), may be substituted for and/or added to the consequences described below at the discretion of the building administrator.
If the duration of a suspension or expulsion continues through the last day of the school year in which the student will graduate, the building administrator will review the case to determine participation in graduation.
Special education students will be disciplined under this policy, subject to the requirements of State and Federal guidelines.
4. MISCONDUCT GOVERNED BY THIS POLICY
A. ASSIGNMENT CUTS
1. Assignment Cut (class, study hall, lunch, etc.)
........ #1 Offense – Student/principal conference and/or disciplinary action
........ #2 Offense – Student/parent/principal conference and/or disciplinary action
........ #3 Offense – 1 day suspension
........ #4 Offense – 2 days suspension
........ #5 Offense – 3 to 10 days suspension and referral to the hearing officer for further discipline if expulsion is the recommended discipline.
2. Assignment Cut (2 or more assignments, truancy, or skipping school)
........ #1 Offense – Student/parent/principal conference and/or disciplinary action
........ #2 Offense – 1 day suspension
........ #3 Offense – 2 days suspension
........ #4 Offense – 3 to 10 days suspension and referral to the hearing officer for further discipline if expulsion is the recommended discipline.
B. INSUBORDINATION – DISRESPECT
Category I
Refusal to comply with a directive given by an employee of the District, when such refusal does not create a substantial disruption to the school environment or degrade a District employee. Examples may include but are not limited to sleeping in class, not sitting down when asked, and refusing to do work.
........ #1 Offense – Warning
........ #2 Offense – Warning and parents will be notified
........ #3 Offense – Student/parent/principal conference and/or other disciplinary action
........ #4 Offense – 1 to 3 days suspension
........ #5 Offense – 3 to 10 days suspension and referral to the hearing officer for further discipline if expulsion is the recommended discipline.
Category II
Refusal to comply with a directive given by an employee of the District when such refusal creates a substantial disruption to the school environment or degrades a District employee.
........ #1 Offense – Student/parent/teacher conference and/or other disciplinary action
........ #2 Offense – 1 day suspension
........ #3 Offense – 1 to 3 days suspension
........ #4 Offense – 3 to 10 days suspension and referral to the hearing officer for further discipline if expulsion is the recommended discipline.
Any act of disrespect by a student towards a District employee or an affiliate of the District, or towards any such person’s property which occurs at any time and which is linked to that individual’s association with the District will be subject to disciplinary action according to this subsection.
C. DISRUPTIVE BEHAVIOR
........ #1 Offense – Student/principal conference and/or other disciplinary action
........ #2 Offense – Student/parent/principal conference and/or other disciplinary action
........ #3 Offense – 1 day suspension
........ #4 Offense – 1 to 3 days suspension
........ #5 Offense – 3 to 10 days suspension and referral to the hearing officer for further discipline if expulsion is the recommended discipline.
D(1). USE OR POSSESSION OF TOBACCO (SNUFF, CIGARETTES, ETC. ON YOUR PERSON, IN YOUR POSSESSION, OR IN YOUR LOCKER) (LIGHTED OR UNLIGTHED CIGARETTE, CIGAR, PIPE OR OTHER SMOKING PRODUCT OR MATERIAL AND SMOKELESS TOBACCO IN ANY FORM).
........ #1 Offense – 1 day suspension
........ #2 Offense – 3 days suspension
........ #3 Offense – 3 to 10 days suspension and referral to the hearing officer for further discipline if expulsion is the recommended discipline.
D(2). USE OR POSSESSION OF A VAPOR PRODUCT (THE TERM “VAPOR PRODUCT” IS DEFINED IN POLICY 1420, AND THE DEFINITION IS INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE).
........ #1 Offense – 1 day suspension
........ #2 Offense – 3 days suspension
........ #3 Offense – 3 to 10 days suspension and referral to the hearing officer if expulsion is the recommended discipline.
Greater Discipline, including expulsion, may be imposed if a vapor device contains a substance other than nicotine that falls under Section E of this Discipline Code.
E. ALCOHOL AND DRUGS
Students are prohibited from using, being under the influence of, possessing or transporting, or dispensing (by sale or gift) any of the following at any school or school related activity, or while in transit to and from school or school related activity, or in any way that directly impacts the discipline or authority of the school:
1) Alcoholic or malt beverage
2) Any substance regarded as controlled or illegal under the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
3) Any look-alike substance intended to mimic any substance described in the preceding sentence
4) Any mechanical device (such as pot pipe, syringe, or needle) capable of utilization for taking any substance regarded as controlled or illegal
5) Any other medication – For purposes of this section, the term “medication” shall include all prescription and non-prescription/over-the-counter medications.
6) Any other substance capable of causing or taken for the purpose of achieving a “high” or other altered state
Nothing in this section is intended to discipline or punish any student who is in proper possession of or who properly utilizes medication or a mechanical device in accordance with the District’s “Administration of Medications” policy. Any violation of this section will result in notification of parents or guardians. For any violation of this section concerning usage, being under the influence, possession, or transportation of alcohol or drugs (as defined in items 1 through 6 listed above), a student will be subject to the following discipline:
........ #1 Offense – Suspension for 3 to 10 school days and referral to the hearing officer for further discipline, including expulsion from school as the most likely consequence if expulsion is the recommended discipline; required parental conference; and referral to Student Assistance Program. Less severe discipline may be imposed depending on the type and/or quantity of drugs or alcohol that the student uses, possesses, transports, or is under the influence of.
........ #2 Offense – Suspension for 10 school days; referral to the hearing officer for further discipline, including expulsion* from school as the most likely consequence. if expulsion is the recommended discipline. A parent conference will also be required, and intervention/ assistance will be provided through either a referral to a school-designated drug counselor or a referral to an appropriate drug and alcohol program.
........ Less severe, or more severe, discipline may be imposed depending on the type and/or quantity of drugs or alcohol that the student uses, possesses, transports, or is under the influence of.
For any violation of this section concerning dispensing of alcohol or drugs (as defined in items 1 through 6 listed above), a student will receive a three to ten day suspension and be referred to the hearing officer for further discipline, including, if expulsion is the recommended discipline, with expulsion from school for a period of not less than one year as the most likely consequence for any case that is referred to the hearing officer. A parent conference is required. Help will be provided through the mandated appointment(s) with a school designated drug counselor or referral to an appropriate drug and alcohol program.
If a student is expelled for a drug and alcohol violation, the Board shall require, prior to readmission, that the student provide sufficient evidence (to the District’s satisfaction) that the student has received appropriate intervention/assistance relative to the drug and/or alcohol violation.
* At the time of expulsion, the principal will review the case to determine participation in graduation.
F. FIGHTING
........ #1 Offense – 1 day suspension
........ #2 Offense – 3 days suspension
........ #3 Offense – 3 to 10 days suspension and referral to the hearing officer for further discipline if expulsion is the recommended discipline.
G. POSSESSION OF A WEAPON* (knife, gun, martial arts items, explosives, etc.)
1) Weapon defined: “Weapon” for the purpose of this policy “shall include, but not be limited to, any knife, cutting instrument, cutting tool, nunchaku, firearm, rifle, or any other tool, instrument, or implement capable of inflicting personal bodily injury.”*
2) Discipline defined: For any violation of this section, a student may be suspended and will shall be referred to the hearing officer for further discipline an expulsion hearing in accordance with Act 26. of 2005. The District “shall expel, for a period of not less than one year, any student who is determined to have brought a weapon onto, is in possession of, or uses a weapon on any school property, any school sponsored activity, or any public conveyance providing transportation to a school or school sponsored activity.” The Superintendent may recommend modifications of such expulsion requirement on a case-by-case basis. Any violation of the District’s weapons policy shall also result in a required parental conference and a required referral to the Student Assistance Program.
3) The provisions of this policy “shall not apply to the following:
a. A weapon being used as a part of a program by a school or by an individual who is participating in the program; or
b. A weapon that is unloaded and is possessed by an individual while traversing school property for the purpose of obtaining access to public or private lands used for lawful hunting, if the entry on school premises is authorized by school authorities.”
4) Procedure: All provisions of Act 26 of 1995 will be applicable in the administration of this policy
*Legal Reference: Act 26 of 1995
** At the time of expulsion, the principal will review the case to determine participation in graduation.
H. TARDINESS TO AN ASSIGNMENT (class, study hall, lunch, etc.)
........ #1 Offense – Teacher records tardy and counsels student.
........ #2 Offense – Teacher records tardy and counsels student. Teacher initiates a warning letter to the parent with a building administrator co-signing the letter.
........ #3 Offense – Teacher refers student to the guidance counselor/building administrator who initiates a letter to the parents.
........ #4 Offense – Teacher refers matter to the building administrator. Appropriate disciplinary action to be taken at the discretion of the building administrator. If tardiness persists, referral may be made to the hearing officer for further discipline. if expulsion is the recommended discipline.
I. FORGERY OF A SIGNATURE OR ALTERATION OF A DOCUMENT
........ #1 Offense – Conference and/or other disciplinary action
........ #2 Offense – 1 to 3 days suspension
........ #3 Offense – 3 to 10 days suspension
........ #4 Offense – 3 to 10 days suspension and referral to the hearing officer for further discipline if expulsion is the recommended discipline.
J. STEALING OF SCHOOL PROPERTY OR THE PROPERTY OF OTHERS
........ #1 Offense – conference and up to 3 days suspension
........ #2 Offense – 1 to 10 days suspension
........ #3 Offense – 3 to 10 days suspension
........ #4 Offense – 3 to 10 days suspension and referral to the hearing officer for further discipline if expulsion is the recommended discipline.
Restitution must be made in each case.
K. STUDENT HARASSMENT
........ #1 Offense – Student/principal conference and/or other disciplinary action
........ #2 Offense – Student/parent/principal conference and/or other disciplinary action
........ #3 Offense – 1 to 3 days suspension
........ #4 Offense – 3 to 10 days suspension
........ #5 Offense – 3 to 10 days suspension and referral to the hearing officer for further discipline if expulsion is the recommended discipline.
K.1. BULLYING
Bullying defined: An intentional electronic, written, verbal, or physical act or series of acts directed at another student or students that is severe, persistent, or pervasive and has the effect of doing any of the following:
........ 1) Causing substantial interference with a student’s education;
........ 2) Creating a threatening environment;
........ 3) Causing substantial disruption of the orderly operation of the school.
Bullying, as defined in this policy, includes cyber-bullying.
The Board prohibits all forms of bullying by district students.
Students who have been bullied should promptly report such incidents to the building principal.
The Board directs that complaints of bullying shall be investigated promptly, and corrective action shall be taken when allegations are verified. Confidentiality of all parties shall be maintained, consistent with the District’s legal and investigative obligations. No reprisals or retaliation shall occur as a result of good faith reports of bullying.
The District may develop and implement bullying prevention and intervention programs and shall annually provide the required information on bullying as a part of the Safe School Report.
The Superintendent or designee shall ensure that this bullying policy is reviewed annually with students. The Superintendent or his/her designee, in cooperation with other appropriate administrators, shall review this bullying policy every 3 years and recommend necessary revisions to the Board.
This policy shall be accessible in every classroom. The policy shall be posted in a prominent location within each school building and on the district web site, if available.
........ #1 Offense – Student/principal conference and/or other disciplinary action
........ #2 Offense – Student/parent/principal conference and/or other disciplinary action
........ #3 Offense – 1 to 3 days suspension; counseling within the school
........ #4 Offense – 3 to 10 days suspension; counseling within the school
........ #5 Offense – 3 to 10 days suspension and referral to the hearing officer for further discipline if expulsion is the recommended discipline.
Transfer to another school building, classroom, or school bus may also be imposed if deemed necessary by the building administrator.
L. FAILURE TO BRING AN EXCUSE TO SCHOOL WITHIN 3 DAYS OF ABSENCE
1) Such absences will be recorded as unexcused and/or illegal. All work missed by a student is to be completed. It will be the decision of the building administrator as to whether the student will receive credit for the completed work.
2) In certain circumstances the building administrator may grant an extension of time for an excuse to be brought.
3) If the situation regarding the “failure to bring excuses” becomes excessive, the building administrator may refer the student to the hearing officer for further discipline. if expulsion is the recommended discipline.
M. DEFACING OR DAMAGING SCHOOL PROPERTY OR PROPERTY OF ANOTHER
1 to 10 days suspension – Possible referral to the hearing officer for further discipline if expulsion is the recommended discipline because where there has been intentional, negligent, or careless defacing, damaging, or desecration of property by a student. In addition to the foregoing, the building administrator or hearing officer may impose upon the student the responsibility of reimbursing the owner for the cost of repair or replacement of the property damaged.
N. UNAUTHORIZED OR IMPROPER USE OF A MOTOR VEHICLE IN VIOLATION OF POLICY 10515
........ #1 Offense – Loss of driving privileges for 10 to 30 school days
........ #2 Offense – 1 day suspension + loss of driving privileges for 30 school days
........ #3 Offense – 3 days suspension + loss of driving privileges for the remainder of the school year
O. BEHAVIOR ON SCHOOL TRANSPORTATION (MINOR OFFENSE)
Students must sit in assigned seats facing forward; student must follow driver’s instruction and must refrain from pushing, hitting, creating unreasonable noise or distractions, opening windows against the driver’s orders, placing hands or body out of window, harassment of persons outside the vehicle, or similar offenses that pose a hazard to the safety/welfare of other students, the driver, or persons outside the vehicle.
........ #1 Offense – Warning and parent will be notified
........ #2 Offense – 1 day suspension of riding privileges
........ #3 Offense – 3 day suspension of riding privileges
........ #4 Offense – 15 day suspension of riding privileges
........ #5 Offense – Suspension of riding privileges for the balance of the school year. (A review of the case will take place after 30 school days and will include a meeting with the building administrator, parents, student, and driver.)**
P. BEHAVIOR ON SCHOOL TRANSPORTATION (MAJOR OFFENSE)
Students shall refrain from fighting, damaging the vehicle, throwing objects out windows, opening any exit doors, or similar offenses that pose the threat of serious danger to the safety and welfare of students, the driver, or persons outside of the vehicle.
........ #1 Offense – Suspension of riding privileges for 3 to 30 days
........ #2 Offense – Suspension of riding privileges for a minimum of 30 days (A review of the case will take place after 10 school days and will include a meeting with the building administrator, parents, and driver.)**
........ #3 Offense – Suspension of riding privileges for the remainder of the school year (A review of the case will take place after 30 school days and will include a meeting with the building administrator, parents, and driver.)**
Students will be held responsible for damages to any school bus.
**The review meeting will be an opportunity for student, parents, driver, and the building administrator to discuss the suspension. If the review reveals that the student/parents have developed an understanding of acceptable behavior, reinstatement of bus riding privileges could result. It will be the responsibility of the parent to contact their child’s building administrator to schedule the review meeting.
Q. MISCELLANEOUS INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR
Any student who engages in inappropriate behavior, not otherwise specifically addressed in this code, including but not limited to self-destructive behavior, behavior that may be harmful to others or the property of others, or other behavior which negatively reflects the values of this discipline code or the philosophy, goals, and aims of the District, will be subject to suspension or other disciplinary action. The discipline may include action by the building administrator as well as a possible referral to the hearing officer for further discipline. if expulsion is the recommended discipline.
R. TRANSFER STUDENT SUSPENDED, EXPELLED, IN ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION OR OTHERWISE UNDER DISCIPLINE FROM ANOTHER SCHOOL DISTRICT FOR AN ACT 26/WEAPONS OFFENSE
Pursuant to 24 P.S. § 13-1317.2(e.1), a student who transfers to the District from a public or private school during a period of expulsion for an act or offense involving a weapon may be assigned to the District’s alternative education program, provided that the assignment may not exceed the period of expulsion.
Students transferring into the District who are under discipline from their previous school district or were in a discipline-based alternative program in their previous district will be placed in the District’s Alternative Education Program or will be otherwise disciplined in the manner utilized by the District that most closely approximates the discipline imposed by the previous district. The decision for placement/discipline will initially be made by the building administrator. Students who wish to appeal this placement/discipline can have their case heard by the District’s hearing officer by written request which must be submitted to the District within 7 calendar days of the building administrator’s placement/ discipline decision.
Students transferring into the District who are pending adjudication in their previous school district are required to notify the District of the adjudication result via a copy of the official adjudication report; based upon that report, the District will implement placement/discipline as set forth above.
S. CAUSING, ATTEMPTING TO CAUSE, THREATENING, OR PLANNING A MAJOR DISRUPTION
It is a violation of this Code to participate in, attempt, threaten, or plan any act which leads to, or has the reasonable potential of leading to, a major disruption of the school routine by interrupting school or a school-related activity, or by placing groups of students or school personnel in danger or distress. Examples may include but are not limited to setting off, attempting to set off, threatening to set off, or planning to set off a fire alarm; making, attempting to make, threatening to make, or planning a bomb threat; setting fire, attempting to set fire, threatening to set fire, or planning to set fire to a building; and participating in, attempting, threatening, or planning any event that leads to or has the reasonable potential of leading to, the evacuation of a school building.
Any violation of this Section will result in a three (3) to ten (10) day suspension. The student will be referred to the Hearing Officer for further discipline, if expulsion is the recommended discipline. For any student referred to the hearing officer, including (i) expulsion from school shall be as the most likely consequence in the event that a major disruption is attempted, planned, or threatened, but not actually caused; and or (ii) expulsion from school for a period of not less than one year shall be as the most likely consequence in the event that a major disruption is actually caused. In considering whether an expulsion will be recommended or imposed, and, if so, the length, the building administrator and hearing officer is are to consider, among other factors deemed relevant, by the hearing officer, the age of the student, the forethought, and the actual disruption to the school environment.
* At the time of expulsion, the principal will review the case to determine participation in graduation.
T. INVASION OF PRIVACY
Students should refrain from unreasonable intrusions concerning the privacy of District employees, other students, or third parties. Invasions of privacy can include but are not limited to casting another in a false light, creating unwarranted publicity about another, obtaining information about or images of another via inappropriate means, or tampering with information concerning another. The discipline may include action by the building administrator as well as a possible referral to the hearing officer if expulsion is the recommended discipline.
Adoption Date - August 12, 2002
Revision Date - June 13, 2005; January 9, 2006; November 12, 2007; December 16, 2008; June 29, 2009; August 8, 2011, May 11, 2015
Review Date -
Legal Reference - Pennsylvania Code, Title 22, Chapter 12
- School Code 24 P.S. §1302-A, §1303.1-A, §1317, §1318
- 22 PA Code §12.3, §12.6, §12.7, §12.8, §14.143
- Act 26 of 2005 (24 P.S. §1317.2)
- 20 U.S.C. §1400, et. seq.; 34 C.F.R. Part 300
Cross Reference - Policy 1420, Policy 10515
The use of tobacco and vapor products present a health and safety hazard that can have serious consequences for the user and the nonuser and the safety of the schools and is contrary to both the educational goals, interest, image of the District and the maintenance of a healthy and safe school work environment.
For purposes of this Policy, the term “tobacco” shall mean a lighted or unlighted cigarette, cigar, pipe or other smoking product or material and smokeless tobacco in any form.
For purposes of this Policy, the term “vapor product” is defined to include any of the following:
1. Any device that employs a heating element, battery, power source, electronic circuit, or other electronic, chemical, or mechanical means, regardless of shape or size and including the component parts and accessories thereto, that can be used to deliver vaporized nicotine or other substances (that may or may not contain nicotine) to users inhaling from the device. Examples of such devices include, but are are not limited to, electronic cigarettes, electronic cigars, electronic cigarillos, electronic pipes, electronic nicotine delivery systems, vape pens, personal vaporizers, or any similar device.
2. Any substance intended for use with, or in, a device described in Section 1 of this definition, regardless of whether the substance contains nicotine.
For purposes of this policy, the term “vapor product” does not include any substance or device that is regulated by the United States food and drug administration under chapter V of the federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.
The Board prohibits the possession or use of tobacco or a vapor product by students during school or school related activities (held on or off school property), on District property and during a student’s transit to or from school or school related activities (held on or off school property).
This Policy shall be contained in the Student Handbook as a part of the Code of Student Conduct and a student’s violation of this Policy is subject to discipline pursuant to the District’s Disciplinary Code, as contained in Policy 10510.
The Superintendent or designee may report violations of this policy to the local police department that has jurisdiction over the school’s property, in accordance with state law and regulations, the procedures set forth in the memorandum of understanding with local law enforcement and Board policies.
The Superintendent or designee shall notify the parent/guardian of any student directly involved in an incident involving possession or use of tobacco. The Superintendent or designee shall inform the parent/guardian whether or not the local police department that has jurisdiction over the school property has been or may be notified of the incident.
In accordance with state law, the Superintendent shall annually, by July 31, report all incidents of possession, use or sale of tobacco by students to the Office for Safe Schools on the required form.
A student convicted of possessing or using tobacco in violation of this policy may be fined up to fifty dollars ($50) plus court costs or admitted to alternative adjudication in lieu of imposition of a fine.
Adoption Date - May 11, 2015
Revision Date
Review Date
Legal Reference - 24 P.S. §13-1302.1-A; 24 P.S. §13-1303-A
24 P.S. §5-510
22 Pa. Code §10.2; 22 Pa. Code §10.22
22 Pa. Code §10.23; 22 Pa. Code §10.25
22 Pa. Code §403.1
18 Pa.C.S.A. §6305; 18 Pa.C.S.A. §6306.1
35 P.S. §1223.5
20 U.S.C. §7181, et. seq.
20 U.S.C. §7114
Cross-Reference - District Policies 10510, 10495
Services of volunteers may be accepted by the Board, the Superintendent, Central Office administrators, building principals, and assistant building principals, teachers, and coaches.
For purposes of this policy, a volunteer is defined as one who voluntarily offers and provides a service to the School District without receiving compensation.
For purposes of this policy, direct contact with children is defined as the possibility of care, supervision, guidance or control of children or routine interaction with children.
Volunteers may come from all backgrounds and all age groups and may include any persons willing to give their time to help students and school staffs. Volunteers may be involved in virtually every facet of the operation of the school District, working with students on a one-to-one basis or performing tasks not involving students. Duties may include, but are not limited to, services to the libraries, classrooms, athletic events, music programs, and school plays, and assisting on field trips and similar activities. Volunteers are to be used in a manner that supplements the existing programs.
All volunteers must submit a signed, completed application form.
A volunteer must submit a valid tuberculosis test when required pursuant to applicable Department of Health Guidelines. When tuberculosis testing is required pursuant to applicable Department of Health Guidelines, a valid test shall be provided to the District when a volunteer commences service for the District and shall remain valid for so long as the volunteer remains in service for at least one day per school year.
A volunteer that has direct contact with children shall be required to comply with the mandatory background check requirements for criminal history (state and federal, unless all of the requirements to exempt the volunteer from the federal criminal history check are met ) and child abuse and shall be required to submit a new criminal background check (state and federal, unless all of the requirements to exempt the volunteer from the federal criminal history check are met ) and child abuse clearance every thirty-six (36) months as required by law and District Policy 7020. In addition, a volunteer that has direct contact with children is required to:
1. Notify the District, in writing, of any arrest or conviction for any offense, as outlined in Section 111 of the School Code, within seventy-two (72) hours of such arrest or conviction. A volunteer shall also be required to submit a current criminal history background check report if the Superintendent or his/her designee has a reasonable belief that the volunteer was arrested or has been convicted of an offense required to be reported by law, and the volunteer has not notified the Superintendent or his/her designee.
2. Notify the District in writing, within seventy-two (72) hours of notification, that the volunteer has been listed as a perpetrator in the Statewide database, in accordance with the Child Protective Services Law.
A volunteer’s failure to accurately report arrests, convictions, or alleged child abuse as required by law may, depending on the nature of the offense, subject the individual to denial as a volunteer, termination if already approved as a volunteer, and/or criminal prosecution.
A volunteer that is not in compliance with all of the requirements of this policy and applicable law shall not be permitted to serve as a volunteer for the District.
Unless otherwise required by law, volunteers are solely responsible for obtaining any required clearances and for any and all costs and fees incurred in complying with the foregoing requirements; however, reimbursement may be available if an individual program’s budget permits.
Volunteers shall be subject to the child abuse reporting requirements pursuant to 23 Pa.C.S.A. 301, et. seq., and District Policy 7020. Additionally, while training on child abuse recognition and reporting is not mandated for volunteers, volunteers shall be permitted to attend, and encouraged to attend, any training sessions on child abuse recognition and reporting that are provided by the District to its employees.
All volunteers shall be approved by the Board upon the recommendation of the appropriate administrator or building principal, who shall be responsible for supervising all volunteers serving at his or her office or building. In the event of an unforeseen or emergency situation, a volunteer may be approved by the Superintendent, and such emergency approval shall be promptly reported to the Board. In such case, the Superintendent shall require the completion of all of the requirements outlined above, and the Board shall take action on the approval of the volunteer at a subsequent meeting.
Pursuant to Policy 1415, The Board prohibits tobacco or vapor product use or visible possession (and discourages any possession) by volunteers performing a service for the District in a school building, on school property, while performing a service at a school-sponsored activity that is held off school property, or on any bus, van or vehicle that is owned, leased or controlled by the District, or utilized by a transportation contractor to transport District students to or from school or a school sponsored activity. Th definitions of “tobacco” and “vapor product” are contained in Policy 1415 and are incorporated herein by reference.
The services of any volunteer may be terminated at any time at the sole discretion of the responsible administrator(s) or building principal. If the services of a volunteer are terminated, timely notification shall be provided to the Superintendent. Under no circumstances will a volunteer be considered an employee of the District.
School personnel will identify appropriate tasks for volunteers and may plan in-service activities for them so they may become skilled in performing those tasks. Under no circumstances will a volunteer’s task include transportation of students. Volunteers who do transport students will be regarded as acting in their capacity as a parent or private individual and not in their capacity as a volunteer. Volunteer help must not be used to replace regularly scheduled personnel. Volunteers will not teach, but may reinforce skills taught by the professional staff.
The Superintendent or his/her designee is responsible for developing procedures for the recruitment of volunteers and establishing guidelines and written procedures covering their use throughout the District, including guidelines and procedures to ensure that volunteers are utilized in compliance with this policy and applicable law.
Adoption Date - November 12, 2012
Revision Date - January 26, 2015; May 11, 2015
Review Date -
Legal Reference - 24 P.S. §14-1418(b)
23 Pa.C.S.A. 6301, et. seq.
28 Pa. Code §23.44(b)
March, 2011 Department of Health Guidelines Relative to Tuberculosis Testing of Students and Staff in Pennsylvania Schools
Cross Reference - Policy 7020; Policy 1415
The use of tobacco and vapor products present a health and safety hazard that can have serious consequences for the user and the nonuser and the safety of the schools and is contrary to both the educational goals, interest, image of the District and the maintenance of a healthy and safe school work environment.
For purposes of this Policy, the term “tobacco” shall mean a lighted or unlighted cigarette, cigar, pipe or other smoking product or material and smokeless tobacco in any form.
For purposes of this Policy, the term “vapor product” is defined to include any of the following:
1. Any device that employs a heating element, battery, power source, electronic circuit, or other electronic, chemical, or mechanical means, regardless of shape or size and including the component parts and accessories thereto, that can be used to deliver vaporized nicotine or other substances (that may or may not contain nicotine) to users inhaling from the device. Examples of such devices include, but are are not limited to, electronic cigarettes, electronic cigars, electronic cigarillos, electronic pipes, electronic nicotine delivery systems, vape pens, personal vaporizers, or any similar device.
2. Any substance intended for use with, or in, a device described in Section 1 of this definition, regardless of whether the substance contains nicotine.
For purposes of this policy, the term “vapor product” does not include any substance or device that is regulated by the United States food and drug administration under chapter V of the federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.
The Board prohibits tobacco or vapor product use or visible possession (and discourages any possession) by District employees, District volunteers, and independent contractors performing a service for the District in a school building, on school property, while working or performing a service at a school-sponsored activity that is held off school property, or on any bus, van or vehicle that is owned, leased or controlled by the District, or utilized by a transportation contractor to transport District students to or from school or a school sponsored activity. The Board further prohibits tobacco or vapor product use (and discourages possession) by members of the general public in a school building, on school property, or on any bus, van or vehicle that is owned, leased or controlled by the District, or utilized by a transportation contractor to transport District students to or from school or a school sponsored activity.
Any employee who violates this Policy shall be subject to disciplinary procedures consistent with the district’s employee discipline policies, procedures and/or practices. Any volunteer that violates this Policy may be subject to termination as a volunteer at the discretion of the applicable administrator or building principal. Any member of the general public that violates this Policy and refuses immediately cease the violation may be removed from school property and, depending the nature and number of the violation(s), may be prohibited from entering upon school property for a period of time deemed appropriate by the Superintendent or hi/her designee.
The Superintendent or designee may report incidents involving violations of this Policy or applicable law to the local police department that has jurisdiction over the school’s property, in accordance with state law and regulations and the procedures set forth in the memorandum of understanding with local law enforcement and Board policies.
In accordance with state law, the Superintendent shall annually, by July 31, report incidents of possession, use or sale of tobacco on school property to the Office for Safe Schools on the required form.
Adoption Date - May 11, 2015
Revision Date
Review Date
Legal Reference - 24 P.S. §13-1302.1-A; 24 P.S. §13-1302.1-A;
24 P.S. §5-510
22 Pa. Code §10.2; 22 Pa. Code §10.22
18 Pa.C.S.A. §6305
35 P.S. §1223.5
20 U.S.C. §7181, et. seq.
Cross-Reference - Policy 5002; Policy 11401
Student activities are an important part of the total school curriculum. Student activities provide opportunities for students to explore areas of interest and skill as well as opportunities to learn teamwork, sportsmanship, discipline, leadership, pride and fairness. For the purpose of this policy, “co-curricular activities” are sponsored or approved by the Board but generally not offered for credit toward graduation. The Board acknowledges that in certain limited circumstances activities that would otherwise be regarded as co-curricular are sometimes offered for credit, such as the awarding of a physical education credit for participation in a sports activity. For the purposes of this policy such activity shall still be regarded as a co-curricular activity even though an academic credit may be awarded for participation in it.
Participation in co-curricular activities is a privilege, offered to students, that carries with it the responsibility of good behavior. Students have no absolute rights or property interest in participation in co-curricular activities. This policy is intended to provide a general outline and code for the manner in which discipline and eligibility will be handled. The student is reminded that this co-curricular policy does not stand alone. Other District policy sections also relate to student conduct such as the Student Search Policy, the Discipline Policy and the Transportation Policy.
This policy will govern behavior, eligibility and circumstances for events that occur during school or school related activity, off school grounds at a school activity function or event, on school provided transportation and during hours a co-curricular activity is taking place including overnight trips. Additionally, this policy may apply outside of school property or school related activities if there is misconduct that causes a substantial disruption to the operation of the school, or the administration reasonably anticipates that the conduct is likely to cause a substantial disruption to the operation of the school.
The following separate and distinct co-curricular rules and regulations are promulgated by the Board as follows:
1. The use and/or possession of illegal drugs or alcoholic beverages by a student shall result in the exclusion from all co-curricular activities until the receipt of the official Hearing Officer’s Adjudication Report is approved by the Board.
2. The use and/or possession of tobacco possession or use of tobacco or a vapor product by a student in violation of Policy 1420 shall result in the exclusion from all co-curricular activities for a minimum of ten (10) calendar days. The definitions of “tobacco” and “vapor product” are contained in Policy 1420 and are incorporated herein by reference.
3. The distribution or sale of alcoholic beverages/drugs or substances intended to mimic any substance or the possession of any mechanical device (such as pot pipe, syringe or needle) capable of utilization for taking by a student of any substance regarded as controlled or illegal shall result in exclusion from all co-curricular activities until the official Hearing Officer’s Adjudication Report is approved by the Board.
4. Any student involved in the stealing of school property or the property of others will result in an exclusion of all co-curricular activities for a minimum of ten (10) calendar days.
5. A student who has been absent from school during a semester for a total of twenty (20) or more school days shall not be eligible to participate in any co-curricular activity until the student has met the prescribed requirements of Section 3 of Article 3 of the PIAA By-Laws, excepting absences certified by a physician as due to illness, injury or quarantine.
6. Students who participate in co-curricular activities must meet minimum academic requirements to maintain their eligibility. Students must maintain passing grades in four (4) full time classes or the equivalency for the nine (9) week grading period to be eligible. Students not meeting academic standards will be ineligible to participate in co-curricular activities for 15 days. At the end of the student’s 15 day exclusion, the student’s work will be re-evaluated to determine if she/he is maintaining passing grades in four (4) full-time classes or there equivalents, if not, the student’s exclusion from co-curricular activities will be extended an additional 15 days. At that time, the work will be re-evaluated again. At the end of the school year, student’s
final credits in his/her subjects, rather than his/her credits for the last grading period, shall be used to determine his/her eligibility for the next grading period. The Building Administrator will notify the parent and the student of his/her ineligibility.
7. Unacceptable behavior engaged in by any student, such as, but not restricted to, inappropriate language/gestures, insubordination, hazing, threats, etc., will result in an exclusion from all co-curricular activities a minimum of ten (10) calendar days.
8. Any student who is determined to bring a weapon into any school property, any school sponsored activity or any public conveyance providing transportation to a school or school sponsored activity shall be excluded from all co-curricular activities until the official Hearing Officer’s Hearing Adjudication Report is approved by the Board.
–"Weapons" are defined but not limited to, any knife, cutting instrument, cutting tool, nunchaka, firearm, rifle or any other tool, instrument, or implement capable of inflicting personal bodily injury.
9. The club/team/organization, sponsors and/or coaches and/or advisors, with the approval of the building administrator, may establish rules that are more stringent than the adopted rules of the co-curricular policies. Participants and their parents/guardians shall be notified in writing of these rules.
10. Permanent removal from an activity shall result in the forfeiture of awards for recognition in that particular activity.
11. When participation in a co-curricular activity requires that students pay fees for that activity, with such fees including but not necessarily being limited to ski lift tickets, participation fees, and entrance fees, the policy of the District shall be to structure the activity so that to the greatest extent possible all participating students pay the same fee. As the sponsor of all co-curricular activities, the District is to be considered the chaperone, sponsor, or similar party for such activities. Accordingly, any incentives or perks that are bestowed upon a chaperone, sponsor, etc. for participation in a co-curricular activity shall be understood to be the property of the District and shall not, for example, be used by a parent as a means to pay for his or her own child's participation in a co-curricular activity. The District, at its sole discretion, will determine how such incentives and perks will be utilized in order to benefit all of the participants in the co-curricular activity.
The discipline set forth in the above specific rules is intended to establish only a minimum discipline. Greater discipline may be imposed depending upon the circumstances of the infraction.
Any student suspended, in-school or out-of-school, or expelled from school shall also be automatically suspended or excluded from participating in all school or co-curricular activities for the duration of the school suspension or expulsion. Students enrolled in the alternative education program are not permitted to participate in co-curricular activities.
The Superintendent or his/her designee shall be responsible for the administration of the co-curricular policy. The Building Administrator shall be responsible for the implementation and enforcement of the rules and regulations. All schools, through the Building Administrator, sponsor, coach, and advisors, shall be responsible for informing student participants and parents/guardians of the rules and regulations.
Each school shall notify parents/guardians and students in the following manner:
1. One parent newsletter per year shall include reference to the rules and regulations.
2. Each sponsor/coach/advisor of a co-curricular activity shall inform the student participants at the start of each activity/season of the rules and regulations. Also, a copy of the rules and regulations shall be sent home with the student participants.
Adoption Date - September 13, 1999
Revision Date - June 30, 2008; May 11, 2015
Practice -
Legal Reference -
Cross Reference - Policy 10410; Policy 10465; Policy 1420
I. Definitions
For purposes of this Policy, the following terms shall be defined as follows:
Independent contractor - an individual who provides a program, activity or service who is otherwise responsible for the care, supervision, guidance or control of children. The term does not include an individual who has no direct contact with children.
Direct contact with children - the possibility of care, supervision, guidance or control of children or routine interaction with children.
II. Employment History Review
Independent contractors shall conduct an employment history review, in compliance with state law, prior to issuing an offer of employment to a candidate or prior to an assignment of a current employee to perform work for the District. Failure to accurately report required information shall subject the candidate or employee to discipline up to, and including, denial of employment or termination if already hired, and may subject the candidate or employee to civil and criminal penalties. The independent contractor may use the information for the purpose of evaluating an applicant’s fitness to be hired or for continued employment of a current employee and may report the information as permitted by law.
III. Clearances and Continuing Reporting Obligations
Independent contractors and their employees shall not be permitted to perform any work or service for the District until each has complied with the mandatory background check requirements for criminal history (state and federal) and child abuse and the District has evaluated the results of that screening process. Additionally, an independent contractor or employee of an independent contractor shall be required to submit a new criminal background check (state and federal) and child abuse clearance every thirty-six (36) months as required by law and District Policy 7020.
Independent contractors and their employees shall report, on the designated disclosure form (a copy of which shall be provided to the District), all arrests and convictions as specified on the form. Independent contractors and their employees shall likewise report arrests and/or convictions that occur subsequent to initially submitting the form.
All independent contractors shall adopt policies and procedures that require their employees, who are providing services to the District and who have direct contact with children, to (i) notify the contractor, in writing, within seventy-two (72) hours of the occurrence, of an arrest or conviction required to be reported by law and (ii) to report to the contractor, within seventy-two (72) hours of notification, that the employee has been listed as a perpetrator in the Statewide database, in accordance with the Child Protective Services Law. An independent contractor’s policies and procedures shall also inform its employees that failure at any time to accurately report such arrests, convictions or child abuse may subject the individual to denial of employment/contract, termination if already hired/contracted, and/or criminal prosecution.
If the contractor receives notice of such arrest or conviction or notification that the employee has been listed as a perpetrator in the Statewide database, from either the employee or a third party, the contractor shall immediately report that information to the District’s Superintendent in writing.
Mandatory background check requirements for criminal history and child abuse shall be included in all bidding specifications for contracted services.
Language shall be included in all bidding specifications for contracted services notifying independent contractors that failure to comply with this policy and the requirements for background checks and reporting of employee misconduct by an independent contractor shall lead to cancellation of the contract.
IV. Child Abuse Reporting and Training
As mandated reporters, all independent contractors and their employees shall comply with the child abuse reporting requirements pursuant to 23 Pa.C.S.A. 301, et. seq. and District Policy 7020. Additionally, all independent contractors shall provide their employees who have direct contact with children with the mandated training on child abuse recognition and reporting pursuant to 24 P.S. 12-1205.6, and District Policy 7020.
V. Tobacco and Vapor Products
Pursuant to Policy 1415, the Board prohibits tobacco or vapor product use or visible possession (and discourages any possession) by independent contractors and their employees in a school building, on school property, or on any buses, vans or vehicles that are owned, leased or controlled by the District, or utilized by a transportation contractor to transport District students to or from school or a school sponsored activity. The Board further prohibits tobacco or vapor product use or visible possession (and discourages any possession) by independent contractors and their employees while working at a school-sponsored activity that is held off school property. The definition of “tobacco” and “vapor product” are contained in Policy 1415 and are incorporated herein by reference.
Adoption Date - January 26, 2015
Revision Date - May 11, 2015
Review Date -
Legal Reference - 24 P.S. 1-111
24 P.S. 1-111.1
24 P.S. 12-1205.6
22 Pa. Code 8.1, et. seq.
23 Pa.C.S.A. 6301, et. seq.
Cross Reference - Policy 7020; Policy 1415
Community organizations are welcome to use the facilities of the District for worthwhile purposes as long as the use does not interfere with the educational program or a school sponsored activity; pose a safety risk to students, District employees, or those seeking to use the facilities; interfere with the orderly and efficient operations of the District’s schools; or interfere with maintaining the cleanliness of, and preventing damage to, District property. In the event that the District determines that a requested use would be contrary to one of the preceding significant interests, interfere with the educational program or a school sponsored activity, the District may (i) impose reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions on such use in order to alleviate said interference, protect the District’s interest, with such restrictions including, but not being limited to, requiring the use of District facilities during non-school hours; or (ii) deny the requested use if either reasonable time, place and manner restrictions cannot alleviate the interference adequately protect the District’s interest or the community organization refuses to abide by restrictions imposed by the District. All requests for building or grounds usage, including athletic fields and facilities, should be initiated through the building principal. A complete listing of charges and policies will be supplied upon request. At a minimum all request forms must specify the portion of the school facilities requested for use; the proposed activity or activities; the number of individuals participating; and the date, time and duration of the proposed event.
Groups/organizations seeking to rent/use District facilities must agree that:
1. Individuals shall not use, access or enter upon any portions of the District facilities not specified in the approved written request form.
2. Individuals shall refrain from any conduct or activities not specifically identified in the approved written request form.
3. All District regulations and procedures will be followed and forms signed as required.
4. Groups/organizations are responsible for liability insurance, parking, security, damage to property other than normal wear and tear and for enforcing all school rules and regulations.
5. Smoking, aAlcoholic beverages, drugs or weapons will not be permitted on school grounds or in school buildings. Pursuant to Policy 1415, the possession or use of tobacco or vapor products in a school building or on school property is prohibited. The definitions of “tobacco” and “vapor product” are contained in Policy 1415 and are incorporated herein by reference.
6. The orders of the principal or designate are official and final.
7. At least one responsible party representing the group shall be on duty prior to the admittance of any participant and remain until all others have departed.
8. A minimum of two people will be in charge of any activity. One additional chaperone shall be required for student activities with over 75 attendees. Every 25 attendees thereafter shall require an additional chaperone. Additional chaperones may be required at the discretion of the District.
9. No gratuities or tipping resulting in individual profit or gain will be allowed.
10. They will promptly pay all bills for any charges which the District determines to apply. Additionally, the group or organization will pay for all personnel who are required to be on hand at or provide services for the event.
11. When and in the manner required by applicable law, prior approval will be received from the PA Department of Environmental Resources if food or beverages are to be served to the public.
12. Requests for use of facilities shall be made thirty (30) days in advance of the use date desired. However, in the discretion of the Superintendent or his or her designee, exceptions may be made in accordance with written procedures developed by the Superintendent or his or her designee.
13. Facilities will not be used for any commercial or profit-making organization (unless the product or service has an educational purpose that is beneficial to the students of the District and is approved in advance by the building principal), for any purpose prohibited by law, or for any purpose that would damage District property.
The Superintendent or his or her designee shall develop and implement written procedures in accordance with this Policy.
The District reserves the right to remove from District property any individual or community group who fails to comply with the terms and conditions of this Policy and established procedures. In the event an individual or community group violates this policy or the terms under which permission was granted to use District facilities, that individual or community group forfeits the right to submit future written requests to use District facilities, unless otherwise decided by the Superintendent.
Adoption Date - January 4, 2002
Revised - March 14, 2011; January 4, 2012; May 11, 2015
Practice -
Legal Reference - 24 P.S. §7-775
Cross Reference - Policy 11110; Policy 1415
I. Definition
For purposes of this Policy, “direct contact with children” shall be defined as the possibility of care, supervision, guidance or control of children or routine interaction with children.
II. Clearances
A contractor or employee of a contractor shall not be permitted to transport District students or have direct contract with students of the District until he or she has complied with the mandatory background check requirements for criminal history (state and federal) and child abuse; the contractor has evaluated the results of the criminal background and child abuse checks/clearances; and the contractor has provided the District’s Director of Transportation with copies of all required criminal background and child abuse checks/clearances. Additionally, a contractor or employee of a contractor shall be required to submit a new criminal background check (state and federal) and child abuse clearance every thirty-six (36) months as required by law and District Policy 7020.
Contractors and their employees shall report, on the designated disclosure form (a copy of which shall be provided to the District), all arrests and convictions as specified on the form. Independent contractors and their employees shall likewise report arrests and/or convictions that occur subsequent to initially submitting the form.
III. Reports of Contractor or Employee Crimes/Child Abuse
In addition to the above requirements, contractors shall be responsible to immediately notify the District’s Director of Transportation in writing if a contractor or a contractor’s employee that has direct contact with students of the District:
1. Has been charged with or convicted of a criminal offense that does not appear on the criminal background check/clearance previously provided to the District; or
2. Has been listed as a perpetrator in the statewide database for any instance of alleged child abuse that does not appear on the child abuse check/clearance previously provided to the District.
Said notification must occur within 72 hours from the time that the contractor acquires knowledge of the charge, conviction, or investigation. The notification shall include the name of the individual, the nature of the offense, the date of the offense, and the status of the disposition. The District will review this information, determine whether the individual will be permitted to continue to transport District students, and provide the contractor with notice of the District’s determination in this regard.
All contractors shall have policies and procedures in place to ensure that contractors are notified by their employees of any such charges, convictions, or alleged child abuse. The policies and procedures shall also include the provision that the failure on the part of employees to at any time report arrests, convictions or child abuse shall subject them to disciplinary action including denial of employment, termination if already hired, and/or criminal prosecution.
IV. Employment History Review
All contractors, pursuant to 24 P.S. 1-111.1, shall conduct an employment history review, in compliance with state law, prior to issuing an offer of employment to a candidate or prior to assignment of a current employee to perform work for the District. Failure to accurately report required information shall subject the candidate or employee to discipline up to, and including, denial of employment or termination if already hired, and may subject the candidate or employee to civil and criminal penalties. Contractors may use the information for the purpose of evaluating an applicant’s fitness to be hired or for continued employment of a current employee and may report the information as permitted by law.
V. Child Abuse Reporting and Training
As mandated reporters, all contractors and their employees shall comply with the child abuse reporting requirements pursuant to 23 Pa.C.S.A. 301, et. seq., and District Policy 7020. Additionally, all contractors shall provide their employees who have direct contact with children with the mandated training on child abuse recognition and reporting pursuant to 24 P.S. 12-1205.6, and District Policy 7020.
VI. Tobacco and Vapor Products
Pursuant to Policy 1415, the Board prohibits tobacco or vapor product use or visible possession (and discourages any possession) by contractors and their employees in a school building, on school property, or on any buses, vans or vehicles that are owned, leased or controlled by the District, or utilized by a contractor to transport District students to or from school or a school sponsored activity. The Board further prohibits tobacco or vapor product use or visible possession (and discourages any possession) by contractors and their employees while working at a school-sponsored activity that is held off school property. The definition of “tobacco” and “vapor product” are contained in Policy 1415 and are incorporated herein by reference.
Adoption Date - March 16, 2011
Revision Date - January 26, 2015, May 11, 2015
Review Date -
Legal Reference - School Code – 24 P.S. 1-111; 24 P.S. 1-111.1; 24 P.S. 12-1205.6
22 Pa Code 8.1 et seq., 23.1, and 23.4
Child Protective Services Law – 23 Pa. C.S.A. 6301, et seq.
Cross Reference - Policies 5002, 7020, and 1415
That the Board of School Directors approve the addition of the first and second floor Large Group Instruction rooms to the project known as the Warren Area High School Renovations (WCSD #1301), including any required PlanCon D form adjustments if necessary.
Executive Summary
Executive Summary