ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION / HEALTH SERVICES
Parents of students requiring medication during school should contact Linda Remillard. Special forms are required to permit the administration of medicine in school. They are available from the Nurse Remillard. All medication must be in original containers with proper labels.
In cases in which a student is able to self-administer medication, the parents or guardians must submit a signed statement that the medication must be taken during the school day and the student is capable of administering the medication. The statement must be accompanied by a physician’s, dentist’s or advanced practice registered nurse’s statement indicating the necessity and naming the medication, the strength, and the prescribed dosage. It must specify the schedule on which it is to be taken and the details of administration. Such statements must be renewed at the beginning of each school year.
A student with asthma or an allergic condition may carry an inhaler or an EpiPen or similar device in school at all times if he/she is under the care of a physician, physician assistant or advanced practical nurse and such practitioner certifies in writing that the child needs to keep an asthmatic inhaler or EpiPen at all times to ensure prompt treatment of the child’s asthma or allergic condition and to protect the child against serious harm or death. A written authorization of the parent/guardian is required.
A school nurse, or in the absence of the nurse, a qualified school employee may administer epinephrine in a cartridge injector for the purpose of emergency first aid to students who experience allergic reactions but were not previously known to have serious allergies and therefore do not have prior written authorization of a parent/guardian or qualified medical professional for the administration of epinephrine. Parents/guardians may submit in writing to the school nurse and school medical advisor that epinephrine shall not be administered to his/her child.
A school nurse, or in the absence of the nurse, a qualified school employee may administer anti-epileptic medication to a specific student with a medically diagnosed epileptic condition that requires prompt treatment in accordance with the student’s individual seizure action plan. Written parental permission and written order from a physician is required.
A student with diabetes may test his/her own blood glucose levels if the student has written permission from his/her parents/guardian and a written order from a Connecticut licensed physician. The time or place of such testing shall not be restricted.
A school nurse or the principal will select a qualified school employee to, under certain conditions, give a glucagon injection to a student with diabetes who may require prompt treatment to protect him/her from serious harm or death. Written parental permission and written order from a physician are required.
School bus drivers are trained to administer epinephrine in a life-threatening anaphylactic reaction to a student who is in need of emergency care due to a medically diagnosed allergic reaction.
The District does not allow the ingestion of marijuana for palliative (medical) use in any school, on school grounds or at school-sponsored activities, on or off school grounds.
Communicable/Infectious Diseases
Students with any medical condition which within the school setting may expose others to disease or contagious and infectious conditions may be excluded from school and referred for medical diagnosis and treatment. Additional information concerning this may be obtained from the school nurse.
Before a child may return to school after an absence due to such condition, parents and students may be required to submit medical evidence that their child has recovered sufficiently to prevent exposing others.
Disabilities
School district will not discriminate on the basis of disability as required under ADA, IDEA and Section 504 and C.G.S. 10-76a and any similar law or provision.
Emergency Medical Treatment
Parents are asked each year to complete an emergency information form for use by the school in the event of a medical emergency.
Health Records
School nurses maintain health records using the Connecticut “Health Assessment and Record Form.” These records are accessible to certified staff working with the child and to school health aides if permission is granted by the nurse or building administrator. Parents may request to inspect the health records of their child. Copies may be provided if requested. Original copies of the record are sent when a student transfers to another school in the state. If moving out-of-state, a copy will be forwarded. Health records are maintained for at least six years after the student graduates. The District will comply with the requirements of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA) to maintain the privacy of protected health information.
A diabetic student may test his/her own blood glucose level per the written order of a physician or advanced practice nurse stating the need and the capacity of the student to conduct self testing. Such self testing shall be done in accordance with the guidelines issued by the Commissioner of Education.
Immunizations
All students must be immunized against certain diseases and must present a certificate from a physical or local health agency. If the student should not be immunized due to medical or religious reasons, a statement from a physician or the parent as appropriate must be provided. The required immunizations are: Diphtheria, Tetanus, Polio, Pertussis, Measles, Mumps, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Varicella (Chickenpox), Meningococcal, Pneumococcal, Rubella, Influenza and Haemophilus Influenza Type B.* Parents or guardians of any children unable to have the mandated immunizations prior to initial school entry and the boosters as required in the later grades may have the immunizations, on the recommendation of the Board of Education, be paid by the town.
Parents/guardians wanting their children to be excused from immunizations if such immunizations are contrary to the religious belief of the child or of his/her parent/guardian must request such exemption in writing to the superintendent. The request must be officially acknowledged by any of the following: notary public, judge, clerk/deputy clerk of a court, town clerk, justice of the peace, attorney or school nurse. Such request must be made before initial entry into the school system and prior to entering grade 7.
In addition to the required immunizations for initial entry into school for kindergarten, regular and special education preschool programs, additional immunizations are required for entry into seventh grade and for entry into eight grade and ninth or tenth grade. The school must enroll any homeless student even if the student is unable to produce the required medical and immunization records.
For further information regarding immunizations contact Linda Remilard, RN, BSN, Dodd Middle School Nurse.
Physical Examinations
All students must present evidence of a physical examination upon enrollment to the district. (C.G.S. 10-204a) Health assessment shall also be required in grade 6 (or 7) and in grade 9 (or 10). All students in grades K and grades 1, 3, 4, 5 will undergo vision screening by the school nurse or school health aide. Hearing screening will be conducted for all students in grades K, 1, 3, 4, and 5. Postural screening will be conducted for all female student in grades 5 and 7 and for male students in grade 8 or 9. If a homeless student, as defined by federal statute, lacks immunization/medical records, the school will enroll the child and refer the parent/guardian to the district’s homeless liaison.
AIDS CURRICULUM
It is the policy of the Board of Education to provide during the school day, planned, ongoing, systematic instruction on Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Parents who wish to have their child excused from such instruction shall communicate this request to the principal.
A student will be exempted from instruction on Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), Bilingual Education, or Family Life and Sex Education upon receipt of a written request for such exemption from his/her parent or guardian. In addition, a student will be excused from participating in, or observing animal dissections as part of classroom instruction upon a written request from the student’s parent or guardian. The student must complete an alternate assignment determined by the school.
AMERICAN WITH DISABILITIES ACT AND SECTION 504 OF THE REHABILITATION ACT OF 1973
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 ensures support for individuals with disabilities. Individuals with disabilities are provided a free and appropriate education (FAPE), and are accommodated and employed without discrimination related to their disabilities.
It is the intent of the District to provide a free and appropriate public education to each Section 504/ADA qualified and eligible student with a disability within its jurisdiction, as defined in 28 CFR, Parts 35 and 36, of the Amendments to Americans with Disabilities Act, Title II and Title III.
Section 504 prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities (both students and staff members) by school districts receiving federal assistance of any kind for any program or activity. Districts may not discriminate against any person with a disability, regardless of whether the program or activity in which that person is involved receives federal funding directly.
All individuals who are disabled or “handicapped” are protected under Section 504. However, individuals who have been determined to be “handicapped” under Section 504 may not be considered disabled under IDEA. IDEA, which can be viewed as a subcategory of Section 504, provides for special programming or placement, while Section 504 protects the rights of individuals with handicaps. Under IDEA, students are qualified for services under 13 IDEA disabling conditions; specially designed individual education programs are planned for each student by Individualized Education Program (IEP) teams. Under Section 504, students with “handicaps” are entitled to special accommodations to ensure that they can participate in and benefit from public education and programs, and a 504 accommodation plan is designed for each student according to individual needs.
Section 504 is not an aspect of special education, but is, rather, a responsibility of the comprehensive general public education system. Unlike an eligibility system based on clinic categories of disabilities, Section 504 works on a more functional premise. Under 504 [29 U.S.C. & § 706(8)] a person is considered to have a disability if that person:
1. has a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more of such person’s major life activities.
2. has a record of such an impairment, or
3. is regarded as having such an impairment.
While Section 504 provides a means for preventing discrimination against students with disabilities, this does not mean that 504 plans must focus on the disabling condition or on addressing the disability directly. Rather, 504 plans offer a means for focusing on students’ strengths, for capitalizing on what students bring to the instruction process - not on what they lack.
Students with disabilities, pursuant to Section 504 and/or ADA will be provided a free appropriate public education which may include, but is not limited to, providing a structured learning environment; repeating and simplifying instructions about in-class and homework assignments; supplemented verbal instructions with visual instructions; adjusting class schedules, modifying test delivery; computer-assisted instructions; using modified textbooks and tailoring homework assignments.
Should you have any questions regarding Section 504, please callMichael Woods, Principal or the Civil Rights Coordinator, Ms. Tracy Nolan-Hussy.
Any eligible person, including any student, parent/guardian, staff member or other employee who feels that he/she has been discriminated against on the basis of disability may submit a written complaint to the district’s designated Section 504 Coordinator (name) within 30 days of the alleged occurrence.
ATTENDANCE
Connecticut state law requires parents to make sure that their children between the ages of 5 to 18 attend school regularly. Daily attendance is a key factor in student success, thus any absence from school is an educational loss to the student. These rules are designed to minimize student absenteeism while providing students the opportunity to make up school work missed due to a legitimate absence.
Absence means an excused absence or an unexcused absence.
A student is considered to be “in attendance” if present at his/her assigned school, or an activity sponsored by the school, such as a field trip, for at least half of the regular school day. A student serving an out-of-school suspension or expulsion will always be considered absent.
The parent or person having control of a child shall have the option of waiting to send the child to school until the child is six or seven years of age, upon signing an option form at the school district offices.
A child whose total number of absences at anytime during the school year is equal to or greater than 10% of the total number of days that the student has been enrolled at the school during the school year is considered a “chronically absent child.” The child will be subject to review by the district and/or the school attendance team
All children attending district schools must obtain the required immunizations unless they have medical contraindications or religious objections. This obligation may be waived for homeless students.
A student must remain in school until age 18, unless he/she graduates or gets written consent from a parent/guardian on a district provided form to leave school at age 17.
Absence
Every attempt should be made to confine necessary appointments to after school, weekends and vacation periods. When a parent determines that an absence is necessary, parents are requested to contact the school between 7:00 A.M. and 9:30 A.M. on the day of the absence by telephoning the school.
If it is not possible to telephone the school on the day of absence, the parent is requested to send a written excuse to the school on the date of the student’s return. The student should submit the excuse directly to the office. Parents should contact the principal in order to take advantage of special services such as the collection of homework assignments for the student who must be out several days.
Absence - Excused Absence
A student’s absence from school shall be considered “excused” only if a written documentation of the reason for such absence has been submitted within ten (10) school days of the student’s return to school and meets the following criteria:
A. For absences one through nine, a student’s absences from school are considered “excused when the student’s parent/guardian approves such absence and submits appropriate documentation to school officials. (Define required documentation.)
B. Students receive an excused absence for the tenth absences and all absences thereafter, when they are absent from school for the following reasons:
1. Student illness, verified by a licensed medical professional, regardless of the length of the absence.
2. Students observance of a religious holiday.
3. Death in the student’s family or other emergency beyond the control of the student’s family.
4. Court appearance which are mandated. (Documentation required)
5. The lack of transportation that is normally provided by the district other than the one the student attends.
6. Extraordinary educational opportunities pre-approved by District administration and in accordance with Connecticut State Department of Education guidelines.
7. Additional 10 days for children of military service members.
A phone call with no written follow-up will automatically be coded as an unexcused absence. The responsibility for makeup of work lies with the student, not the teacher. Unless a student has an extended illness, all makeup privileges must be agreed upon with teacher and student upon return to school.
Absence - Unexcused Absence
Unexcused absences are those which do not fall under any of the excused absences. Students who have unexcused absences may be denied makeup privileges. Such absences may also be reflected in the students final grade.*
Absences which are the result of school or district disciplinary action are excluded from the definitions.
Although the school will maintain records and keep parents informed within the limit of its capability, parents and students are expected to keep accurate attendance records and compare them to report cards when issued. Parents are also encouraged to contact the teachers, guidance counselors and administrators to get help in verifying attendance and attendance records at any time during the year.
Absence - Chronic Absenteeism
A student whose total number of absences at anytime during the school year is equal to or greater than then percent of the total number of days that such student has been enrolled at school during the school year is considered to be a “chronically absent child.” Such a student will be subject to review by the attendance review team and the chronic absenteeism prevention and intervention plan developed by the State Department of Education. The District will also collect and analyze data on student attendance, truancy and chronic absenteeism for students with disabilities.
Leaving School Grounds/Release of Students From School
Under no circumstances may a student leave the school or school grounds during school hours without permission from his/her parents or guardians and school administration. In the event it is necessary for a student to be dismissed early, a parent or guardian should send a written request to the office. Telephone requests for early dismissal of a student shall be honored only if the caller can be positively identified as the student’s parent or guardian. Children of single-parent families will be released only upon the request of the parent whom the court holds directly responsible for the child and who is identified as such in the school records, unless prior arrangements have been made with the school. Arrangements should be made with the building administrator on the parent or guardian to pick up the student in the school office. No student may be released in the custody of any individual, not the parent or guardian of the student, unless the individual’s name appears on the list maintained by the school’s principal as authorized to obtain the release of students.
If someone other than a parent/guardian picks up the student, the person appearing in the school office should bring a note of identification from the parent or guardian. The Board of Education does not condone/approve students leaving a school campus in third-party ride sharing vehicles; especially such service (Uber, Lyft) whose own policies explicitly prohibit minors from using them unless accompanied by an adult.
Tardiness
Students who are not in their homeroom/classroom by 8:0 A.M. are considered tardy and must report directly to the office. A student discovered on school grounds who has not signed in at the office will also be considered tardy. A student who is repeatedly tardy may be considered truant. Students may be subject to disciplinary action including in-school suspension if the principal determines that tardiness is excessive.
Truancy
Truancy is defined by statute as absence(s) from school without the knowledge or approval of parents/guardians and/or school officials. A student age five to eighteen inclusive with 4 (four) unexcused absences in one month or 10 (ten) unexcused absences in a school year will be considered truant. Dodd Middle School will remain in contact with families to support plans for students who are reluctant to come to school.
Parents have the responsibility to assist school officials in remedying and preventing truancy. School staff are mandated by the state to report excessive absences or patterns of concern.
Information about truancy will also be posted in the annual district report cards required by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).
When a student is absent from Dodd, his or her parent should call the school or send an email to doddoffice@cheshire.k12.ct.us by 9:30 a.m. to notify school officials. An absence may be reported via the Dodd Absence Line before 8:00 a.m. Dodd Middle School will make ‘Safe Calls’ to the numbers provided in PowerSchool to verify all absences. It should be noted that if a student was absent from school, he or she would not be allowed to participate in any after school activities on that day.
A student will be permitted to make-up tests and to turn in projects due in any class missed because of absence. Teachers may assign a late penalty to any project in accordance with time-lines approved by the principal and previously communicated to students.
For any class missed, students may be assigned make-up work based on the instructional objectives of the subject or course and the needs of the student. The student is responsible for obtaining and completing make-up work within the time specified by the teacher.
CURRICULAR MATERIALS
Within the first week of school, and throughout the course of the year, students will be issued books and material that are required for coursework or extracurricular activities. Textbook numbers and book conditions are recorded by each teacher, and the student is responsible for returning each textbook in nearly the same condition as it was when distributed. All school books must be covered unless otherwise directed by the classroom teacher. Lost or damaged books may require reimbursement from the student or family.
CHILD ABUSE, NEGLECT AND SEXUAL ASSAULT
All school employees, including teachers, superintendents, administrators, coaches of intramural or interscholastic athletics, paraprofessionals and other professional school staff including guidance counselors, school counselors, paraprofessionals, social workers, psychologists, licensed nurses, physicians, licensed behavior analysts, and substitute teachers are obligated by law (C.G.S. 17a-101) to report suspected child abuse, neglect, or if a child is placed in imminent danger of serious harm or sexual assault by a school employee to the Connecticut State Department of Children and Families Services. Specific procedures governing the reporting of abuse and neglect are in effect, and staff receives training in their use, as required by state law.
Reporting of child abuse, neglect and sexual assault by a school employee is a responsibility which is taken seriously. If there is any doubt about reporting suspected abuse, neglect or a sexual assault a report will be made. The school will work with the parents and appropriate social agencies in all cases.
Child abuse is defined as any physical injury inflicted by other than accidental means or injuries which are not in keeping with the explanation given for their cause. Improper treatment such as malnutrition, sexual molestation, deprivation of necessities, emotional abuse, cruel punishment or neglect are also considered child abuse.
The Board of Education will post in each school the telephone number of the Department of Children and Families’ child abuse hotline, Careline, and the Internet web address that provides information about the Careline in a conspicuous location frequented by students. Such posting shall be in various languages appropriate for the students enrolled in the school.
COMPUTER RESOURCES
The District utilizes computer technology to broaden instruction and to prepare students for a computerized society. Use of these resources is restricted to students working under a teacher’s supervision and for approved purposes only. Students and parents will be asked to sign a user agreement regarding appropriate use of these resources. Violations of this agreement may result in withdrawal of privileges and other disciplinary action.
Students and parents should be aware that email communications, using district computers, are not private and may be monitored by staff. Students may not access social media sites using District equipment, while on District property, or at a District sponsored activity unless the posting is approved by a teacher. The District will not be liable for information posted by students on social media websites, such as Facebook, MySpace, YouTube, etc., when the student is not engaged in District activities and not using District equipment.
The District reserves the right to monitor, inspect, copy, review and store at anytime and without prior notice any and all usage of the computer network and Internet access and any and all information transmitted or received in connection with such usage. All such information files shall be and remain the property of the School District and no user shall have any expectation of privacy regarding such material.
Federal law requires the district to place filtering devices on school computers to block entry to visual depictions that are obscene, pornographic, harmful or inappropriate for students as defined in the Children’s Internet Protection Act and as determined by the Superintendent or his/her designee.
The Board of Education is committed to aiding students and staff in creating a 21st Century learning environment. Therefore students (plus staff) will be permitted to access the District’s wireless network with their personal devices during the school day. With teacher approval, students may use their own devices to access the Internet and collaborate with other students.
Students and parents/guardians participating in the Bring Your Own Device/Technology program must adhere to the Student Code of Conduct, as well as all applicable Board policies, particularly the Computer Acceptable Use policy.
PARENT INVOLVEMENT/COMMUNICATIONS
Education succeeds best when there is a strong partnership between home and school based on communications, interactions and engagement. Parents/guardians are urged to encourage their children to put a high priority on education and to make the most of their educational opportunities available. Parents/guardians should become familiar with all of the child’s school activities and with the District’s academic programs, including special programs. Attendance at parent-teacher conferences, participation in campus parent organizations, attendance at board of education meetings and being a school volunteer are strongly encouraged.
PESTICIDE APPLICATION
Only certified pesticide applicators shall be used in schools for any non-emergency pesticide use in school buildings or on school grounds. Pesticide applications are limited to non-school hours and when activities are not taking place. Areas to receive pesticide application will be posted and a written record of all pesticide applications will be maintained for five years. Parents/guardians and staff who want to receive advance notice of all pesticide use will be listed on a registry and such notice will be provided as required by law (Schools without an integrated pest -management plan must send prior notice by mail.) Parents/guardians who want to be notified prior to pesticide applications inside their child(ren)’s school assignment area may contact Facilities and Maintenance Dept. Notice will be provided at least 24 hours in advance of the application of a pesticide either on the school’s homepage or on the school or district’s primary social media account.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Students excused for the year by a doctor will be reassigned to an enrichment class or independent study. Those who are excused for two or more weeks by a doctor will be required to prepare a written/oral report, which must be presented to the physical education teacher for a grade.
All other students are required to dress and participate in physical education class. Those students with slight physical injuries or impairments will be given a modified program to accommodate their individual needs.
Safety glasses are available to any student who wishes to use them during physical education class, after school sports, or intramurals.
PHOTO/VIDEO
From time to time, photographs or videos are taken of classrooms “in action” to demonstrate a particular aspect of a curriculum or the implementation of a specific program. These photographs or videos are sometimes used in a presentation to the Board of Education, teachers, parent groups, and community groups or on television via the Cheshire channel. On occasion, photographs of students are placed in newspapers concerning events at school.
Any parent or guardian who objects to a photograph or video of his or her child used in the manner described should contact the principal in writing.
PSYCHOTROPIC DRUG USE
School personnel is prohibited from recommending the use of psychotropic drugs for any student enrolled within the school system. School nurses, nurse practitioners, district medical advisor, school psychologists, school social workers and school counselors, may recommend that a student be evaluated by an appropriate medical practitioner. Further, the District is prohibited from requiring a child to get a prescription before he/she may attend school, be evaluated to determine eligibility for special education or receive special education.
PUBLIC COMPLAINTS
The right of community members to register individual or group concerns about district instruction, programs, materials, operations and/or staff members is recognized. Complaints and grievances will be handled and resolved as close to their origin as possible. Complaints will be referred back through the proper administrative channels before investigation or action by the Board unless the complaint concerns Board actions or operations only. A procedure also exists for the placing and response to criticism or approval of instructional materials.
Specialized complaint procedures exist regarding identification, evaluation or educational placement of a student with a disability; loss of credit due to absences; discrimination on the basis of sex; harassment; sexual abuse or harassment; and instructional materials.
RECORDING OF CLASSROOM ACTIVITIES
The District prohibits the covert recording of classroom activities. The recording of teachers or students in class is inherently disruptive of the educational process. Students violating this rule will be subject to discipline and confiscation of the electronic device.
RELIGION AND RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATIONS
The school district acknowledges each individual’s rights to follow or not to follow religious beliefs and practices, free from discriminatory or harassing behavior. The District strives to provide religious accommodations to students in an equitable and appropriate way in accordance with District policies and corresponding guidelines.
SCHOLARSHIPS, FINANCIAL AID AND AWARDS
Students should start early to establish records worthy of scholarship consideration. In general requirements for scholarship consideration are some combination of the following: serious attention to studies, good character, financial need and involvement in the activities of the school.
Many scholarships and awards are available to qualified students. Students should consult a Guidance Counselor for information about what scholarships are available and how, when and where to apply.
SCHOOL CLIMATE
School climate means the quality and character of school life with a particular focus on the quality of the relationships within the school community between and among students and adults. In order for teaching and learning to occur there must be a positive climate in which students are appreciative and accepting of individual differences and behave responsibly toward others. Students are encouraged to report bullying, discrimination or harassment to any faculty member or administrator and may request anonymity.
SCHOOL SAFETY AND SECURITY
While we do not publish all of our security procedures and abilities, Dodd has taken the necessary steps to provide a safe learning environment based on the recommendations of the State Board of Education and the Governor’s Task Force on School Security.
Our safety program also includes regular fire drills along with other security drills such as lockdown drills and shelter in one place drills. The school has a Crisis Management Team that has developed a crisis management plan. The team meets twice a year to review procedures and update the plan. The team also meets during emergency or crisis situations to assist the entire school community.
SEARCH AND SEIZURE
The right to inspect desks, lockers and other equipment assigned to students may be exercised by school officials to safeguard students, their property and school property. An authorized school administrator may search a student’s locker or desk under the following conditions:
1. There is reason to believe that the student’s desk or locker contains contraband material.
2. The probable presence of contraband material presents a serious threat to the maintenance of discipline, order, safety and health in school.
This document serves as advance notice that school board policy allows desks and lockers to be inspected if the administration has reason to believe that materials injurious to the best interests of students and the school are contained therein.
Under special circumstances, school officials may search students, particularly if there is reasonable suspicion that a student possesses illegal matter, such as a dangerous weapon or illegal drugs. Students must be aware that such items are forbidden both on school property and at school-related activities.
Student vehicles parked on school grounds may be searched if there is reasonable cause to search. The District may use trained dogs to alert school officials to the presence of prohibited or illegal items, including drugs and alcohol. At any time, trained dogs may be used on lockers and vehicles parked on school property. Searches of classrooms, common areas or student belongings may also be conducted by trained dogs when students are not present. Drug-sniffing dogs will not be used to sniff students. A locker, a vehicle, or an item in the classroom to which a trained dog alerts may be searched by school officials.
SECLUSION/RESTRAINT/EXCLUSIONARY TIME OUT, USE OF
The use of restraint or seclusion will be used only by trained school staff as an emergency intervention only to prevent immediate or imminent injury to a student or others. Restraint or seclusion will not be used to discipline a student or because it is convenient or instead of a less restrictive alternative. Such use will also be constantly monitored by a school employee. When used, parents will be notified within 24 hours, but a reasonable attempt will be made to notify parents/guardians immediately after restraint or seclusion in initiated.
Seclusion will not be used as a planned intervention in a student’s behavioral intervention plan, IEP or 504 plan. Seclusion involves the involuntary confinement of a student in a room from which he/she is physically prevented from leaving. Physical restraint includes, among other things, carrying or forcibly moving a person from one location to another. Exclusionary time out is a temporary, continuously monitored separation of a student from an ongoing activity in a non-locked setting, for the purpose of calming such student or deescalating such student’s behavior. It may be used as a planned intervention. However, exclusionary time out may not be used as a form of discipline.
SERVICE ANIMALS
The Board of Education, in compliance with state and federal laws, allows service animals to accompany persons with disabilities on the District campus. A service animal is usually a dog that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a person with a disability. This does not include animals whose sole function is to provide emotional support, well-being, comfort, companionship, or therapeutic benefits, or to act as a crime deterrent.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT
The district wants all students to learn in an environment free from all forms of sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is against state and federal laws. It is unwelcome sexual attention from peers, teachers, staff or anyone with whom the victim may interact. Sexual harassment, whether verbal or physical, includes, but is not limited to the following: unwanted kissing, touching of breasts or genitals, butt slapping, sexual assault, requests for sexual favors, making sexually explicit comments, uninvited massages, (oral and/or written) sexually suggestive gestures, catcalls, ogling, or cornering someone in a tight space. Any student who believes that he or she has been subjected to sexual harassment should report the alleged misconduct immediately to his/her teacher, social worker, guidance counselor, administrator, school nurse or any responsible individual with whom the student feels comfortable, either informally or through the filing of a formal complaint.
The district will notify the parents of all students involved in sexual harassment by student(s) when the allegations are not minor and will notify parents of any incident of sexual harassment or sexual abuse by an employee.
A complaint alleging sexual harassment by a student or staff member may be presented by a student and/or parent in a conference with the principal or designee or with the Title IX Coordinator, Ms. Robin Ann Carey
STUDENT DATA PRIVACY
Connecticut legislation, PA 16-189, (C.G.S. 10-234bb (a)) An Act Concerning Student Data Privacy, as amended by PA 17-200 and PA 18-125, restricts how student information may be used by (1) entities that contract to provide educational software and electronic storage of student records (“contractors”) and (2) operators of websites, online services or mobile applications (i.e., apps). Not later than five (5) business days after executing a contract with such contractors, the contract will be posted on the District’s website. The notice will include a brief description of the content and the purpose of the contract and will state what student information, student records or student-generated content may be collected as a result of the contract. Student information will be deleted by operators of websites, online services, or mobile apps upon student, parent, guardian or board of education request. Such operators may not create student profiles for use in targeted advertising and for purposes unrelated to school. Parents and students will notified of data breeches. Students and parents/guardians will be notified not later than two business days upon notice of a breach of security by a contractor to the Board of Education.
STUDENT RECORDS
A student’s school records are confidential and are protected by federal and state law from unauthorized inspection or use. A cumulative record is maintained for each student from the time the student enters the district until the student withdraws or graduates. This record moves with the student from school to school.
By law, both parents, whether married, separated, or divorced, have access to the records of a student who is under 18 or a dependent for tax purposes. A parent whose rights have been legally terminated will be denied access to the records if the school is given a copy of the court order terminating these rights.
The principal is custodian of all records for currently enrolled students at the assigned school. The Superintendent is the custodian of all records for students who have withdrawn or graduated. Records may be reviewed during regular school hours upon completion of the written request form. The record’s custodian or designee will respond to reasonable requests for explanation and interpretation of the records.
Parents of a minor or of a student who is a dependent for tax purposes, the student (if 18 or older), and school officials with legitimate educational interests are the only persons who have general access to a student’s records. “School officials with legitimate educational interests” include any employee such as an administrator, teacher, support staff, Board of Education member, attorney, agents, or facilities with which the district contracts for the placement of students with disabilities, as well as their attorneys and consultants, who are:
1. Working with the student;
2. Considering disciplinary or academic actions, the student’s case, an Individual Education Plan (IEP) for a student with disabilities under IDEA or an individually designed program for a student with disabilities under Section 504;
3. Compiling statistical data; or
4. Investigating or evaluating programs.
Certain other officials from various governmental agencies may have limited access to the records. Parental consent is required to release the records to anyone else. When the student reaches 18 years of age, only the student has the right to consent to release of records.
The parent’s or student’s right of access to, and copies of, student records does not extend to all records. Materials that are not considered educational records, such as teachers’ personal notes on a student that are shared only with a substitute teacher and records pertaining to former students after they are no longer students in the district, do not have to be made available to the parents or student.
A student over 18 and parents of minor students may inspect the student’s records and request a correction if the records are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy or other rights. If the district refuses the request to amend the records, the requestor has the right to a hearing. If the records are not amended as a result of the hearing, the requestor has 30 school days to exercise the right to place a statement commenting on the information in the student’s record. Although improperly recorded grades may be challenged, parents and the student are not allowed to contest a student’s grade in a course through this process. Parents or the student have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education if they believe the district is not in compliance with the law regarding student records. The district’s policy regarding student records is available from the Principal’s or Superintendent’s office.
Copies of student records are available for parents. A cost associated with records is based on a per page price and will provided to parents prior to pick-up. Parents may be denied copies of a student’s records (1) after the student reaches age 18 and is no longer a dependent for tax purposes; (2) when the student is attending an institution of post-secondary education; (3) if the parent fails to follow proper procedures and pay the copying charge; or (4) when the district is given a copy of a court order terminating the parental rights. If the student qualifies for free or reduced-price meals and the parents are unable to view the records during regular school hours, upon written request of the parent, one copy of the record will be provided at no charge.
Certain information about district students is considered directory information and will be released to anyone who follows procedures for requesting it, unless the parent objects to the release of any or all directory information about the child. This objection must be made in writing to the principal within ten school days after the issuance of this handbook. Directory information includes a student’s name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, major field of study, grade levels, photograph, e-mail address, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, awards received in school, and most recent previous school attended.
The District will release to the Parent Teacher Association the names, addresses, telephone number and grade levels of students (unless the District is informed by September 15 of the school year that designation of such directory information has been refused as to a particular student) provided such information is to be used by the PTA for its own school activities or school business.
The District, when a student moves to a new school system or charter school, will send the student’s records to the new district or charter school within ten business days of receiving written notice of the move from the new district. Unless the parents/guardians of the student authorize the record transfer in writing, the sending District is required to send a notice when the records are sent to the new district.
Parents and eligible students have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the District to comply with the Requirements of FERPA. Complaints may be addressed to: Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 5400 Maryland Avenue, S.W., Washington, DC 20202-4605.
SURVEYS/STUDENT PRIVACY
Your child will not be required to participate without parental consent in any personally identifiable survey, analysis, or evaluation that concerns:
1. political affiliations or beliefs of the student or the student’s parent;
2. mental or psychological problems of the student or the student’s family;
3. sex attitudes or behaviors;
4. illegal, antisocial, self-incriminating and demeaning behavior;
5. critical appraisals of other individuals with whom respondents have close family relationships;
6. legally recognized privileged or analogous relationships, such as those of lawyers, physicians and ministers;
7. income; or
8. religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or the student’s parents.
In addition, parents have the right to inspect, upon request, a survey that is to be administered by a school to a student, prior to its use and is available at the Board of Education Offices. Parents will be notified at least two weeks in advance of any survey that will be given to their children.
Parents will be notified of any non-emergency, invasive physical examination that is required as a condition of attendance, administered by the school and which is not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of students. Parents will be given an opportunity to opt their child out of the exam. Hearing, vision and scoliosis screening are not subject to prior notifications.
The District will not collect, disclose or use personal information gathered from students for the purpose of marketing or selling that information or providing it to others for that purpose.
TITLE I COMPARABILITY OF SERVICES
All district schools, regardless of whether they receive Federal Title I funds, provide services that, taken as a whole, are substantially comparable. Staff, curriculum materials and instructional supplies are provided in a manner to ensure equivalency among district schools.
TITLE I PARENT AND FAMILY ENGAGEMENT
Parents of a child in a Title 1 funded program will receive a copy of the district’s parental and family engagement involvement policy, including provisions of an annual meeting and involvement of parents in the planning, review and implementation of Title 1 programs and opportunities for parents and family members to participate in the education of their children.
VISITORS
Parents and other visitors are welcome to visit (district) schools. All visitors must first report to the Main office. Please be sure a driver’s license or other form of government photo ID is available to scan into our system.
All visitors are expected to demonstrate the highest standards of courtesy and conduct. Disruptive behavior or uncivil discourse will not be permitted. Visits cannot interfere with the educational program of the school nor interrupt teaching activities.
All doors that open to the outside of any school must remain locked in order to preserve the safety and security of students and staff. Unauthorized persons shall not be permitted in school buildings or on school grounds. School principals are authorized to take appropriate action to prevent such persons from entering the building or from loitering on the grounds. Such persons will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.