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.
Principles for Governance and Leadership
Pennsylvania school boards are committed to providing every student the opportunity to grow and achieve. The actions taken by the Board ultimately have both short and long-term impact in the classroom. Therefore, school directors collectively and individually will...
Govern Effectively
1. Alex Haase - National Skills USA
2. Mrs. McElhaney - EHS Yearbook
1. IU5 - Mr. Paul Mangione
2. PSBA Liaison - Mr. Joseph Colosimo
3. Career Center Advisory - Mrs. Marcy Morgan, Mr. Michael Zamborik
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BOARD/COMMITTEE MEETING DATES |
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1. |
Aug. 29, 2016 |
6:00 p.m. |
Physical Plant & Facilities Committee Personnel/Athletics & Co-Curricular Activities Committee Curriculum, Instruction, & Technology Committee Finance Committee |
Central Office - Russell |
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2. |
Aug. 29, 2016 |
8:00 p.m. |
Special Meeting |
Central Office - Russell |
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3. |
Sept. 12, 2016 |
7:00 p.m. |
Board Meeting |
Central Office - Russell |
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4. |
Sept. 19, 2016 |
5:00 p.m. |
Board Goal Setting |
TBD |
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5. |
Sept. 24, 2016 |
Tentative |
Packing Food for Students |
Allegheny Valley |
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6. |
Sept. 25, 2016 |
1:00 p.m. |
Backpack Golf Tournament |
Conewango Valley Country Club |
Executive Summary
The School-Based Access Program (SBAP) is administered by the Department of Human Services (DHS) and its contractors, Public Consulting Group (PCG) and Sivic Solutions Groups (SSG). The Agreement is necessary for (1) Direct Service Claiming Process and Fees and (2) Medicaid Administrative Claim (MAC) Process and Fees.
The agreement with Saint Bonaventure University continues the dual enrollment program for the 2016-2017 school year, with the understanding that parents and students will be responsible for all costs related to the courses.
The agreement with the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford continues the dual enrollment program for the 2016-2017 school year, with the understanding that parents and students will be responsible for all costs related to the courses.
The agreement with Clarion University continues the dual enrollment program for the 2016-2017 school year, with the understanding that parents and students will be responsible for all costs related to the courses.
Executive Summary
Executive Summary
Executive Summary
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 sponsored activities, when a student is under the supervision of the school, on District property (when there is a nexus to the school day or a school sponsored activity; or 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), and during the time necessarily spent going to or returning from school or school sponsored activities. Additionally, this policy may apply to conduct that does not occur during school or school sponsored activities, when a student is under the supervision of the school, on District property, or during the time necessarily spent going to or returning from school or school sponsored 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, greater 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. The Board hereby authorizes the Superintendent or his/her designee to develop administrative procedures with respect to the discipline of special education students.
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 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 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 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 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 if expulsion is the recommended discipline.
D(1). USE OR POSSESSION OF TOBACCO (LIGHTED OR UNLIGHTED 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 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 during school or school sponsored activities, when a student is under the supervision of the school, on District property, or during the time necessarily spent going to or returning from school or school sponsored activities:
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 if expulsion is the recommended discipline; required parental conference; and referral to Student Assistance Program.
........ #2 Offense – Suspension for 10 school days; referral to the hearing officer 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 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.
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 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 shall be referred to the hearing officer for 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
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 office 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 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 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 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 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.
K.2 HAZING
Any student that violates Policy 10960 (with respect to hazing) shall be subject to discipline that may include, but is not limited to, suspension, referral to the Hearing Officer (if expulsion is the recommended discipline), or temporary or permanent removal from the sport (or other school sponsored activity) during which the hazing occurred. Depending on the nature of the infraction, a student/parent/principal conference and/or counseling within the school may also be required.
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 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 if expulsion is the recommended discipline because 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 if expulsion is the recommended discipline.
R. TRANSFER STUDENT EXPELLED 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.
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 if expulsion is the recommended discipline. For any student referred to the hearing officer, (i) expulsion from school shall be 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 are to consider, among other factors deemed relevant, the age of the student, the forethought, and the actual disruption to the school environment.
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 Dates - June 13, 2005
- January 9, 2006
- November 12, 2007
- December 16, 2008
- June 29, 2009
- August 8, 2011
- May 11, 2015
- June 13, 2016
- ________, 2016
Review Date -
Definitions
For purposes of this policy, the term “hazing” is defined as any action or situation which recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a person or which willfully destroys or removes public or private property for the purpose of initiation or admission into or affiliation with, or as a condition of continued membership in, any organization. The terms shall include, but not be limited to:
1. Any brutality of a physical nature, such as whipping, beating, branding;
2. Forced calisthenics;
3. Exposure to the elements;
4. Forced consumption of any food, liquor, drug or other substance;
5. Any other forced physical activity which could adversely affect the physical health and safety of the individual, and shall include any activity which would subject the individual to extreme mental stress, such as sleep deprivation, forced exclusion from social contact, forced conduct which is intended to or could result in humiliation, extreme embarrassment, or any other forced activity which could adversely affect the mental health or dignity of the individual; or
6. Any willful destruction or removal of public or private property.
For purposes of this policy, any activity, as described above, upon which the initiation or admission into or affiliation with or continued membership in an organization is directly or indirectly conditioned shall be presumed to be “forced” activity, the willingness of an individual to participate in such activity notwithstanding.
For purposes of this policy, the term “student activity or organization” is defined as any organization, team, club, society, or group operating under the sanction of or recognized as an organization by the District.
Hazing Prohibition
In an effort to maintain a safe, positive environment for students and staff that is free from hazing and consistent with the educational goals of the District, the Board prohibits hazing in connection with any student activity or organization regardless of whether the conduct occurs on or off school property or outside of school hours. No student, coach, District employee, or District volunteer shall engage in any form of hazing.
The Board encourages students who have been subjected to hazing, or who have witnessed hazing, to promptly report such incidents to the building principal. A coach, District employee, or District volunteer shall not condone or ignore hazing and shall immediately (within 24 hours) report any hazing that he/she has either witnessed, or has knowledge of, to the building principal.
Complaint Procedure
When a building principal receives a report of hazing, the principal shall conduct a timely investigation of the alleged hazing. The principal shall prepare a written report summarizing the investigation, recommending disposition of the complaint, and documenting any corrective action taken.
Consequences for Violations
If the investigation results in a substantiated finding of hazing by a student, the building principal shall recommend appropriate disciplinary action up to and including expulsion, as circumstances warrant, in accordance with policy 10510 (The Student Discipline Code). Additionally, the student may be subject to temporary or permanent removal from the activity and/or criminal prosecution in the event that law enforcement notification is either mandated by law or provided at the District’s discretion.
If the investigation results in a substantiated finding that a coach, District employee, or District volunteer engaged in, condoned or ignored any form of hazing, he/she may, depending on the nature of the infraction, be disciplined in accordance with Board policy and applicable laws and regulations. Such discipline may include, but is not limited to, suspension, termination, and/or criminal prosecution.
If a student activity or organization authorizes hazing in blatant disregard of this policy or other applicable District rules, penalties may also include rescission of permission for that organization to operate on school property or to otherwise operate under the sanction or recognition of the District.
Notification
The District shall post this policy on the District’s website. The District may also annually inform students, parents/guardians, coaches, District employees, and District volunteers that hazing is prohibited, through means that may include any of the following:
- Distribution of this policy
- Publication in pertinent handbooks
- Presentation at an assembly
- Verbal instructions by the coach or individual in charge of the program at the start of the season or program
- Posting of notice/signs.
A copy of this policy, which contains the rules, penalties, and program of enforcement shall be provided to all athletic coaches (regardless of whether the coach is an employee or volunteer) annually, prior to coaching an athletic activity. A copy of this policy may, at the discretion of the Superintendent, also be provided to those individuals that are in charge of any non-athletic activity (e.g. an organization, team, club, society, or group operating under the sanction of or recognized as an organization by the District).
Adoption Date - __________, 2016
Revision Date -
Review Date -
Legal Reference - 24 P.S. §5351
24 P.S. §5-511
Cross Reference - Policy 10510
The Board of Directors supports financially and encourages development of a District-wide, articulated curriculum that conforms to State standards and is responsive to the needs of children in a rapidly changing society. In order to provide a quality educational program for district students, the Board shall adopt a curriculum plan that includes the requirements for courses to be taught; courses adapted to the age, development and needs of students; and a remediation plan for students not achieving proficiency. The curriculum shall be evaluated, adapted and developed on a continuing basis and in accordance with a plan for curriculum improvement.
Curriculum development includes the writing of planned instruction and curriculum mapping based upon research, best practices and the current State standards. The curriculum design will include: standards, essential questions, content, skills, assessments, and resources. Evaluation of curriculum includes review of instructional materials, but does not necessarily imply the adoption of new materials. It is the responsibility of the Curriculum Director to review and monitor the specific curriculum area on a yearly basis to ensure compliance with the State standards.
As the educational leader of the district, the Superintendent shall be responsible to the Board for the development of curriculum. S/He shall establish procedures for curriculum development which ensure the utilization of available resources, and effective participation and communication with administrators, teaching staff members, students, parents, and Board members.
Adoption Date - April 14, 2003
Revision Date - May 14, 2007
- September 8, 2008
- August 12, 2013
- August 8, 2016
Review Date -
Legal Reference - 22 Pa. Code, Chapter 4 – Academic Standards and Assessment
Cross Reference - Policy 106510
The following is the curriculum development timeline:
| Teachers write planned instruction | CIT approves planned instruction | Board approves planned instruction | Teachers review and select texts & resources | CIT approves texts & resources | Board approves texts & resources |
| June-Oct. | Nov.-Dec | Dec.-Feb | March-Sept. | Oct.-Dec. | Jan.-March |
| cbbbbbbbb | Year One | cbbbbbbbbbb | cbbbbbbbbbbb | Year two | cbvvvvvvvvvv |
The following is the curriculum review timeline:
| Teachers review planned instruction | CIT approves planned instruction | Board approves planned instruction |
| May - Aug. | Aug. - Sept. | Sept. - Oct. |
The following is a chart depicting the specific curricular areas that are to be developed and reviewed in a specific order. Writing Phase and Review / Selection Phase activities are outlined in the timeline above.
| Curricular Development Activities | Curricular Review Activities | ||
| Repeat Seven Year Cycle When Complete | Writing Phase | Review / Selection Phase | |
| First School Year | Science & Technology, Language Arts 6-12, WCCC | Language Art 6-12 | All areas not being developed, including WCCC curriculum |
| Second School Year | Social Studies, Health, Safety, Physical Education, WCCC | Science & Technology | All areas not being developed, including WCCC curriculum |
| Third School Year | Career Education & Work, Gifted Education, WCCC | Social Studies, Health, Safety, Physical Education | All areas not being developed, including WCCC curriculum |
| Fourth School Year | Arts & Humanities, World Languages, Family Consumer Science, WCCC | Career Education & Work, Gifted Education | All areas not being developed, including WCCC curriculum |
| Fifth School Year | Math, WCCC | Arts & Humanities, World Languages, Family Consumer Science | All areas not being developed, including WCCC curriculum |
| Sixth School Year | Language Arts, Library, |
Math | All areas not being developed, including WCCC curriculum |
| Seventh School Year | Science & Technology, WCCC | Language Arts, Library |
All areas not being developed, including WCCC curriculum |
It is the policy of the Board of School Directors that students graduating from the Warren County School District and awarded a diploma must meet all of the graduation requirements of the District and the state. It is understood that from time to time these requirements will be changed by the authority of the Board or the state.
The District requirements for graduation and the awarding of a diploma are the following:
1. The student must meet any applicable State assessment requirements.
2. Successful completion of the Graduation Project.
3. 2. Successful completion of the District’s required credits for grades 9, 10, 11, and 12.
4. 3. Fulfillment of other graduation requirements mandated by the state and/or the District.
Adoption Date - November 14, 2005
Revision Date - October 8, 2012
- August 12, 2013
- August 8, 2016
Review Date -
Legal Reference - 22 Pa. Code, Chapter 4 – Academic Standards and Assessment
Cross Reference - Policies 12201, 9732, 9733
The Board recognizes that a system of grading student achievement can help the student, teachers, and parents to better assess the student's progress toward personal educational goals.
Grading shall be that system of measuring and recording student progress and achievement which enables the students, parents and teachers to: learn the student's strengths and weaknesses; plan an educational and vocational future for the student in the areas of the greatest potential for success; and know where remedial work is required.
Such grades shall measure the student's progress against his/her own potential for achievement and the following guidelines will pertain:
• All high schools and the Career Center shall award credit in the same fashion.
GRADE 12
* Graduation Project 1.0 Pass/Incomplete
* Graduation Project will be recorded upon completion.
The following policy on honor roll criteria shall be utilized in the District for determining honor students at the completion of each nine weeks grading period.
Honor Roll
An average of 84% with no percentage below 75%.
Merit Honor Roll
An average of 92% with no percentage below 75%.
Other Criteria
In grades 6-12, courses will be weighted according to potential credits (the value given to each course - example: 1 credit or .5 credit). The honor roll/merit honor roll average is based on the percent times potential credit (for each course). This total is divided by the total potential credits for the grading period.
Those students enrolled in Pass (P)/Fail (F) courses must receive a pass in all the courses graded Pass (P)/Fail (F).
Students receiving an INC. (incomplete) for any course during the grading period do not qualify for the honor roll/merit honor roll until the INC. is completed.
Students receiving a WF (Withdraw Fail) for any course during the grading period do not qualify for the Honor Roll/Merit Honor Roll.
Adoption Date - September 13, 1999
Revision Date - January 8, 2007
- June 9, 2014;
- August 8, 2016
Review Date -
Legal Reference - 22 Pa Code, Chapter 4 – Academic Standards and Assessment
Cross Reference -
It shall be the policy of the Board to acknowledge each student's successful completion of the instructional program appropriate to the student's interest and needs by the awarding of a diploma.
The Board shall award a regular high school diploma to every student enrolled in this District who meets the requirements of graduation established by this Board. The listed requirements become effective with students entering ninth grade.
Any student graduating from the District is required to satisfactorily complete a minimum of 28.00 27.00 credits in grades 9-10-11-12 for a high school diploma. A breakdown of the credits is as follows:
Credit Requirements for Grades 9 through 12
| English | 4.0 credits |
| Math | 3.0 credits |
| Science | 4.0 credits |
| Social Studies | 4.0 credits |
| Phys. Ed. | 1.0 credits |
| Health | 0.5 credit |
| Computer Technology | 0.5 credit |
| Technology Education | 0.5 credit |
| Electives** | 9.5 credits |
* The Graduation Project will be recorded the student’s senior year. The course titled Senior Project will be graded Pass/Incomplete and will not count towards a student’s GPA.
** It is recommended for any student that is considering post-secondary education to include as elective selections at least two consecutive years of a World Language Course.
In order to graduate from the District, the student must meet State assessment requirements.
Students receiving educational services pursuant to a Gifted Individualized Educational Program (GIEP) under Chapter 16 of the State Board of Education regulations may receive modified and/or accelerated course instruction, scheduled concurrent college course instruction, as well as other individualized instruction. Gifted students may accelerate through the curriculum, may not follow a traditional grade sequence, and may graduate ahead of their class. Graduation requirements as provided herein may be modified for gifted students in the GIEP on an individual student basis. Where a student's GIEP provides modification to the graduation requirements of this policy, the student's GIEP shall control; provided, however, that all gifted students shall complete the required number of graduation credits, or their equivalent, for graduation.
“… Children with disabilities who satisfactorily complete a special education program developed by an Individualized Education Program team under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEIA) and this part shall be granted and issued a regular high school diploma by the …” District.
The Superintendent or his/her designee is authorized to develop procedures for implementation of this policy.
Adoption Date - April 8, 2002
Revision Date - January 12, 2004
- July 16, 2007
- October 8, 2012 (Revision rescinded January 14, 2013)
- January 14, 2013 (Re-adopted July 16, 2007 revision after rescission of October 8, 2012 revision)
- April 8, 2013
- August 8, 2016
Review Date -
Legal Reference - 22 Pa. Code, Chapter 4 – Academic Standards and Assessment – January 1999
- Chapter 12 – February 2006
Cross Reference - Policyies 9145, 9190
Executive Summary
Executive Summary
The Achievement Center will provide a Student Support Therapist to support the facilitation of group and individual social counseling session, as well as plan behavioral interventions tailored to support individual needs for students in the YEMS Autistic and Emotional Support Program. The service is necessary to ensure continuous social and behavioral interventions are available to students during the WCSD Program Counselor's leave of absence.
Executive Summary - Initial implementation of the WCSD MTSS (ELA) program will occur during school year 2016-2017. Implementation of Tier III in grades 4 and 5 requires curricular resources to support individualized learning. System 44 (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) is recommended as the supplemental curriculum to support instruction and learning opportunities for special education students receiving MTSS Tier III instructional interventions. System 44 integrates seamlessly in the READ 180 Next Generation classroom, with educators providing differentiated instruction for System 44 students during the Small-Group Rotations.
Executive Summary
The agreement with Lamar Companies will provide advertising services for the Virtual Academy by providing six different billboard locations throughout Warren County from August 22, 2016 through July 9, 2017.
The agreement with Gannon University is for the dual enrollment program for the 2016-2017 school year, with the understanding that parents and students will be responsible for all costs related to the courses.
The Articulation Agreement with Pittsburgh Technical College (PTC) and Warren County Career Center gives PTC credit to students for courses that they take at the Career Center, per the specific requirements and guidelines listed.
Executive Summary
Executive Summary