The Harrison Board of Education provides students with access to computers, networks, and the internet to support learning, research, and communication. All use of district technology must be for educational purposes and follow the standards of responsible, respectful, and ethical behavior outlined in Policy and Regulation.

Students are expected to use technology safely, avoid accessing or sharing inappropriate or illegal content, protect their passwords, and respect others’ privacy and property. Activities such as cyberbullying, hacking, downloading unauthorized software, or using district devices for non-school purposes are strictly prohibited. The district uses filtering and monitoring systems to protect students in accordance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) and the Neighborhood Children’s Internet Protection Act (NCIPA).

Each year, all students and their parents/guardians must sign the District Technology Acceptable Use Agreement. Signing the agreement indicates understanding of the rules, consent to monitoring of use, and acknowledgment that violations may result in disciplinary action, including suspension of technology privileges, school discipline, or legal consequences.

Student Chromebook User Agreement

Harrison Board of Education Acceptable Use of Computer Networks/Computers and Resources Policy (2361)

Harrison Board of Education Acceptable Use of Computer Networks/Computers and Resources Regulation (2361)

The Harrison Public School District is committed to ensuring the health and safety of all students. In accordance with Policy and Regulations, medications may be administered during the school day only when necessary for a student’s well-being. Medications can be given by the school nurse, a trained designee, or a parent, and certain students may be approved to self-administer medication for conditions such as asthma, severe allergies, or adrenal insufficiency.

Emergency medications—including epinephrine for allergic reactions and hydrocortisone sodium succinate for adrenal insufficiency—may be administered by trained staff members when needed. Parents must provide written authorization and medical documentation each school year, and all medications are securely stored under the nurse’s supervision unless approved for self-carry.

The district’s goal is to provide a safe, supportive environment where all students can fully participate in school activities while managing their health needs responsibly.

For more information, please contact your school nurse.

Harrison Board of Education Administration of Medication Policy (5330)

Harrison Board of Education Addministration of Medication Regulation (5330)

Inquiries or complaints regarding affirmative action, discrimination (including Title IX requirements), sexual harassment or equity should be directed to: Clarisa Pimentel/Section 504 Officer/Title IX Coordinator

Email: clarisa.pimentel@staff.harrisonschools.org

The Harrison Public School District is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all students, including those with life-threatening allergies. In accordance with Policy and Regulations, the district has established procedures to prevent exposure to allergens and to respond promptly and effectively in the event of an allergic reaction.

Each student identified as having a life-threatening allergy will have an Individualized Healthcare Plan (IHP) and an Individualized Emergency Healthcare Plan (IEHP) developed by the school nurse in collaboration with the student’s family and healthcare provider. Staff members are trained annually to recognize signs of an allergic reaction and to administer emergency medication, including epinephrine, when needed.

Prevention strategies are in place throughout the school day, including in classrooms, cafeterias, on buses, and during school-sponsored activities. Parents, students, and staff work together to minimize risks and ensure that every student can participate safely in all aspects of school life.

For more information, please contact your school nurse.

HBOE Management of Life Threatening Allergies in Schools Policy (5331)

HBOE Management of Life Threatening Allergies in Schools Regulation (5331)

For access to Health and Human Service Programs in Hudson County please contact your child's School Social Worker or School Based Youth Services Program:

Mrs. Ann Diaco Harrison Early Childhool 973-833-8500 x. 7143

Mrs. Kathelyn Perez Kennedy Elementary School 973-833-8500 x. 7137

Ms. Dianna Gomez Lincoln Elementary School 973-483-6400 x. 3016

Ms. Amanda Carrillo Hamilton Intermediate School 973-735-5550 x. 2014

Mrs. Mayra Rivas-Flores Washington Middle School 973-483-2285 x. 2045

Mrs. Maria Rebelo Harrison High School 973-482-5050 x. 1630

Ms. Johanny Villalobos Harrison High School 973-482-5050 x. 1629

The Code of student conduct shall be reviewed annually and maintained by a committee. The members of the committee shall include parents, guardians and students, the superintendent, members of the board of education and community members.  The committee may also include teachers and others staff and administrators as desired or required. 

The Harrison Board of Education shall review all related policies on a regular basis. 

Harrison Public School District Code of Conduct 2025-2026

Código de conducta del distrito escolar público de Harrison 2025-2026

The Board of Education has adopted a Student Discipline/Code of Conduct Policy to set clear behavioral expectations for students both on and, when necessary, off school grounds. This policy is designed to promote positive student development, ensure safety, and create a respectful learning environment for everyone.

The policy is reviewed annually by the Superintendent, with input from parents, students, and community members. It is shared with students, staff, and families each year, and all employees receive training on prevention, intervention, and response to student conduct issues.

The Code of Conduct is applied equitably and without discrimination. It includes special provisions for students with disabilities, consistent with state and federal laws.

The policy outlines:

• Student responsibilities related to academic achievement, behavior, and attendance.

• Behaviors that may result in suspension or expulsion.

• Student rights and due process protections.

• Positive behavior supports, interventions, and consequences that are appropriate for the severity of the infraction, the student’s age, and their history.

• The district’s authority to address inappropriate behavior that occurs off school grounds when it affects school safety or operations.

• Responses to incidents of harassment, intimidation, bullying, and dating violence, including both consequences and remedial measures.

• The potential denial of privileges (e.g., extracurricular activities or graduation participation) as a disciplinary consequence.

• The transfer of disciplinary records when students move between districts.
  
  

All disciplinary actions follow established procedures and due process to ensure fairness. Incidents are reported to the New Jersey Department of Education in accordance with state regulations.

Harrison Board of Education Student Discipline/Code of Conduct Policy (5600)

Harrison Board of Education Student Discipline/Code of Conduct Regulation (5600)

Harrison Public Schools is proud to offer programs and services that meet the needs of students who demonstrate exceptional ability, creativity, or academic performance. Through the Gifted and Talented Program, students are identified using multiple measures and provided with learning experiences that challenge them beyond the regular classroom curriculum. The program emphasizes creativity, problem-solving, and higher-level thinking while encouraging students to reach their fullest potential. Parents are active partners in supporting each child’s growth and success. 

Harrison Public School District G&T Website

Appeal Process:  To submit a Gifted and Talented Appeal, please click on the link below:

Gifted and Talented Appeal Link

Harrison Board of Education Gifted and Talented Students Policy  (2464)

Harrison Board of Education Gifted and Talented Students Regulation (2464)

The Harrison Board of Education is committed to providing all students with a safe and respectful learning environment. In accordance with state law, harassment, intimidation, or bullying (HIB) of any kind—on school grounds, on school buses, at school-sponsored events, or off school grounds when it impacts the school environment—is strictly prohibited.

Key points of the policy include:

• Immediate Action & Investigation: All reports of HIB are taken seriously. School administrators must investigate every report promptly.

• Range of Responses: Confirmed HIB incidents may result in a variety of responses, from counseling and behavioral interventions to disciplinary actions, including suspension or expulsion when appropriate.

• Support for Victims: The district provides support services such as counseling, increased supervision, schedule changes, or other safety measures.

• Prevention & Education: Staff receive ongoing training, and students participate in programs to build respect, tolerance, and positive school climate (including the annual “Week of Respect”).

• No Retaliation: Retaliation or false accusations related to HIB reports are prohibited and subject to disciplinary action.

• Transparency & Reporting: The district publicly reports HIB data twice a year and receives a state-issued grade for its HIB programs.

• Community Involvement: Parents, staff, law enforcement, and community organizations play an active role in prevention efforts.

Harrison Board of Education Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Policy (5512)

Harrison Public Schools Website - H.I.B./Anti-Bullying Webpage

The Harrison Public School District asks all families to complete a lunch form each year to determine eligibility status for the new school year. 

Your child’s picture may appear in newspapers, on television, on district and school websites, in school publications, e.g., school yearbooks, school newspapers, class pictures, or other communication tools. It is required that you as parent/guardian complete a Media Release Form and return it to your child’s school.

Harrison Public Schools Media Release Form

Harrison Board of Education Public Relations Program Policy (9120)

The New Jersey Department of Education provides the Parental Rights in Special Education (PRISE) document to ensure families understand their rights and the steps schools must follow when identifying, evaluating, and providing services for students with disabilities. This guide explains your right to participate in meetings, access educational records, give or deny consent for services, and request evaluations or mediation if you disagree with decisions. 

Parental Rights In Special Education (PRISE)

Derechos parentales en educación especial

To Prevent Release of Student Information: Parents may decide to opt out of providing Directory Information to Armed Services/Military Recruiters and/or Educational/Occupational Recruitment programs. It is required that you as parent/guardian of a High School Student complete an Opt Out Notification Form and return it to your child’s school. 

Harrison Board of Education Recruiment By Special Interests Groups Policy (9713)

COMPULSORY ATTENDANCE AGES  (N.J.S.A 18A:38-25)

All students admitted to the Harrison Public School District shall be subject to state laws requiring regular attendance to the age of 16.

ADULT STUDENTS 

1. A student 18 years of age or older and/or students under age 18 who has produced proof of emancipation must be treated as an adult; and

2. They may sign their own report cards, as well as their own absence excuses; and

3. They may sign their own permission slips to participate in athletic programs, field trips and other school events; and

4. They may sign themselves out of school without first obtaining parental permission; and

5. They may review their official school records.

Students 18 years of age or older must still obey school rules and regulations. Any rule or practice which is appropriate to the orderly and productive administration of a school community may be applied to all within that community including teachers, administrators, and adult students. All students regardless of age or status will be held accountable- in terms of grades, disciplinary sanctions, or otherwise- for attendance and conduct in school.

However, a parent/guardian of an 18-year-old or older student has the right to see a student’s records and be an active participant in the curricular and extracurricular educational activities as long as the student is financially dependent on the parent/guardian and is enrolled in the public school systems.

ABSENCES AND EXCUSES

The Board acknowledges the importance of regular attendance in an effective instructional program. Enrollment in the Harrison Public Schools is a right that is maintained through regular attendance and application of effort.

In order for the Board to fulfill its responsibility for providing a thorough and efficient education for each student, the complete cooperation of parents/guardians and pupils is required to maintain a high level of school attendance.

Attendance procedures can be made more effective and student security can be enhanced by involving parents in prompt reporting of an absence. All parents/guardians are responsible for notifying the school early in the day when a student will be absent and for informing the school of the reason for the absence.

Kennedy Elementary School 973-833-8500

Lincoln Elementary School 973-483-6400

Hamilton Intermediate School 973-735-5550

Washington Middle School 973-483-2285

Harrison High School 973-482-5050

In addition, all students are required to bring a note from the parent/guardian upon return to school. The student is required to submit the note to the Principal/designee who will direct the student to the “next step.” 

Students are expected to attend all classes on time every day, except when properly excused.

Students will be limited to 10 absences per year (pro rata for marking period and semester length courses). Students who exceed the maximum number of absences may lose credit for the course.  Loss of credit is an administrative decision and may be appealed by the student, parent or guardian.

The attendance officer/counselor may notify the parent by telephone or in writing when the second occasion of unexcused absence has accrued. An absence may be either excused or unexcused. All absences require a written statement, medical verification or prior arrangement with the school administrator.

EXCUSED

The board considers the following as cause for excused absence:

1. Disabling illness (Medical Note)

2. Recovery from accident;

C. Required court attendance;

D. Death in the family;

E. Religious observance--In accordance with statute, no student absent for religious observance of a day recognized by the commissioner of education or this board of education shall be charged with an unexcused absence, deprived of an award or eligibility/opportunity to compete for an award, or of the right to take an alternate to a test or examination missed through such absence;

F. Such good cause as may be acceptable to the principal

A. Attendance need not always be within the school facilities. A student will be considered to be in attendance if he/she is present at any place where school is in session by authority of the board.  The board shall consider each student assigned to a program of independent study, with parent/guardian permission, to be in regular attendance for that program, provided that he/she is under the guidance of a staff member so assigned, reports daily or weekly, as prescribed, to such staff member the place in which he/she is conducting his/her study, and regularly demonstrates progress toward the objectives of his/her course of study.

UNEXCUSED

Unexcused Absence is defined as any absence from school for a full or a portion of a day for any reason that is not specifically defined as an "excused absence".

Truancy is defined as any unexcused absence from school or classes or assigned locations for the whole day. 

Cutting is defined as unexcused absence from school or classes or assigned locations for a portion of the school day selectively. 

Tardiness to Class or School is defined as not being in an assigned location by the time the class is scheduled to start. Students are responsible for knowing their schedule and getting to class on time.

There is more than enough time allotted for passing from one class to another. All lateness to class will be unexcused. All academic work is expected to be made up.

MEDICAL ABSENCE

1. Medically verified physical or emotional illness (requires physician’s note or parent’s note and determination by school nurse)

ABSENCE RESULTED FROM SCHOOL SPONSORED ACTIVITIES

Absences resulted from attendance at school sponsored activities (i.e. field trip or interscholastic sports match) or suspensions are exempt from the provision of the attendance policy. It is the student’s responsibility to make up the work that is missed due to attendance at school activities.

EXTENDED ILLNESS OR RECUPERATION

Special provisions will be made for certified hospital stays or illnesses requiring long recuperation at home. Home instruction will be made available. An explanation/recommendation from a medical doctor is required in order to have home instruction approved.  Harrison Schools will receive the documentation from a medical professional 

MAKE UP WORK

All work missed because of absence is to be made up as soon as possible. It is the student’s responsibility to meet with the teacher, identify all missing assignments and to establish due dates.

TRUANCY

A student who is absent without the knowledge of a parent or guardian will be considered truant.  The superintendent or designee will report to appropriate authorities infractions of the law regarding the attendance of pupils below the age of 16.  Repeated infractions by enrolled pupils over the age of 16 may result in the suspension or expulsion of the student.

It shall be the policy of the Board to consider the effectiveness and appropriateness to his/her needs of the educational program that if offered each student who is habitually and repeatedly absent from his/her assigned program and to consult with the child study team and/or intervention and referral service team for its recommendations.

LATE ARRIVAL AND EARLY DISMISSAL

The board recognizes that from time to time compelling circumstances will require that a student be late to school or dismissed before the end of the school day.  Parents are required to communicate and/or submit a note to the Principal/designee.”

Justifiable reasons may include:

1. Medical or dental appointments which cannot be scheduled outside of school hours;

2. Medical disability;

3. Family emergency;

4. Court appearance;

5. Interview for college entrance or employment;

6. Motor vehicle driver’s test;

7. Such good cause as may be acceptable to the administration. 

No student in preschool through grade twelve shall be permitted to leave the school before the close of the school day unless he/she is met in the school office by his/her parent/guardian or a person authorized by the parent/guardian to act in his/her behalf.

ATTENDANCE APPEALS PROCESS

Loss of credit due to absence is an administrative decision. The student, parent or guardian may appeal this decision. Upon appeal, a school attendance committee will be established to evaluate the student’s attendance folder and hear the appeal. The committee will be comprised of the guidance counselor, student, parent and student data specialist. The guidance counselor or designee will chair the hearing.

The committee will meet with the student, and parent(s). It will re-examine the contents of the attendance folder and hear additional information. The committee will make a recommendation to the administrator. Possible resolution may include:

1. recommendation to grant additional absences based upon extenuating circumstances

2. recommendation to deny credit         

3. other – the attendance committee is granted wide latitude in suggesting remedies other than denial of credit

In accordance with the due right process, the recommendation of the attendance committee is appealable to the principal, the superintendent and the Board of Education.

Harrison Board of Education Attendance Policy (5200)

Harrison Board of Education Attendance Regulation (5200)

Students have the right to express concerns or complaints about school-related issues in a fair and respectful way. The process begins informally and can move through additional levels of review if needed. At each stage, the student has the opportunity to be heard, and parents or guardians may take part when appropriate. The Board of Education will review any matter that reaches it and make a timely decision. Students are encouraged to use this process responsibly and may do so without fear of retaliation.

Harrison Board of Education Student Appeals Policy (5710)

The Harrison Public School District protects the privacy and confidentiality of all student records in accordance with state and federal laws, including the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Student records are maintained securely and include only information relevant to each student’s educational progress, health, and well-being.

Parents and eligible students have the right to review, request corrections, and obtain copies of their records. Records are shared only with authorized individuals or agencies for legitimate educational or safety purposes. The district also maintains strict safeguards to prevent unauthorized access or disclosure of personally identifiable information.

For more information, please contact your child’s school.

Harrison Board of Education Student Records Policy (8330)

Harrison Board of Education Student Records Regulation (8330)

Definitions of Key Terms

To help students and families understand the district’s policy, the following terms are used throughout this section:

• Substance – Any alcohol, controlled dangerous substance (including marijuana, cocaine, heroin, or prescription medication not used as prescribed), anabolic steroid, inhalant, or any over-the-counter or prescription drug that is misused to cause intoxication or impairment.

• Substance Abuse – The use of any substance for non-medical purposes or in a way that harms health, behavior, or learning.

• Under the Influence – When a student shows signs or behaviors that suggest recent use of alcohol or drugs, such as slurred speech, unsteady movement, unusual behavior, or the smell of a substance.

• Evaluation – A professional assessment by a qualified expert to determine whether a student needs counseling, treatment, or other supports related to substance use.

• Referral for Evaluation – When school staff recommend that a student be assessed for possible substance abuse or related concerns.

• Referral for Treatment – When school staff recommend counseling or outside treatment following an evaluation or positive test result.

• School Grounds – All district property and facilities, including school buildings, buses, athletic fields, and any location where a school-sponsored activity takes place.

• Student Assistance Coordinator (SAC) – A certified professional trained to assist students who may be affected by alcohol or drug use by providing counseling, support, and connections to community resources.

The Harrison Public School District is committed to maintaining a safe, healthy learning environment for every student. The use, possession, or distribution of alcohol, drugs, steroids, or other harmful substances is strictly prohibited on school property, at school events, or while participating in any school-related activity. This policy is designed not only to ensure student safety but also to support prevention, education, and recovery. Harrison Public Schools enforce a zero-tolerance policy for drugs and alcohol while emphasizing education, early intervention, and support. Our goal is to help students make responsible choices, provide assistance to those in need, and ensure that every child can learn in a safe, healthy environment

When a Student Is Suspected of Use

If a teacher, nurse, or staff member believes a student might be under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or steroids:

• The staff member must report it immediately to the principal, nurse, or Student Assistance Coordinator.

• The parent or guardian will be contacted right away, and the student must be sent for an immediate medical examination by a licensed physician.

• Parents may take their child to their family doctor; if unavailable, the exam will be performed by the school physician or at a local hospital.

• The purpose of the exam is to determine whether the student is under the influence and to ensure the student’s health and safety.
  
  

Medical Examination and Return to School

• The physician’s written report must be submitted to the school within 24 hours.

• If the report confirms the student is not under the influence, the student may return to class.

• If the report shows substance use, the student must remain at home until a physician confirms in writing that the student’s physical and mental condition allows a safe return to school.
  
  

Support and Intervention

• The Student Assistance Coordinator (SAC) or another trained professional will meet with the student and parents to assess needs and recommend appropriate next steps.

• Support may include counseling, education programs, or referral to outside treatment services.

• Academic instruction will continue while the student receives support.

• Failure to follow through with evaluation or treatment recommendations may result in disciplinary action under the district’s Code of Conduct.
  
  

Discipline and Legal Procedures

• Any student found using, possessing, or distributing drugs or alcohol will face serious disciplinary action, which may include suspension and referral to law enforcement.

• Substances or paraphernalia discovered on school property will be turned over to the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office or designated law enforcement.

• Students who voluntarily turn in substances or request help for personal use (not distribution) will not be reported to law enforcement but will be referred for counseling and support.
  
  

Parent and Community Education

The district offers parent conferences focused on substance-abuse prevention and awareness. They provide:

• An overview of the prevention curriculum taught to students;

• Information on the physical, emotional, and legal effects of substance use;

• Guidance for parents on recognizing warning signs; and

• Connections to local resources for prevention, counseling, and rehabilitation.
  
  

Confidentiality

All information regarding a student’s participation in any counseling or treatment program is strictly confidential.

• Information may only be shared with parental consent, under a court order, or when required by law (for example, if there is a concern of child abuse or neglect).

• School staff are legally prohibited from sharing any details about a student’s substance-use counseling without written permission.
  
  

Harrison Board of Education Substance Abuse Policy (5530)

Harrison Board of Education Student Smoking Policy (5533)

Harrison Board of Education Substance Abuse Regulation (5530)

Harrison Board of Education Student Smoking Regulation (5533)

The Harrison Public School District is committed to supporting every child’s success in school. The Intervention and Referral Services (I&RS) program is designed to provide early help to students who may be struggling with academic, behavioral, or health-related issues that interfere with learning.

Purpose:

I&RS is a team-based support system available in every school. Its main goal is to identify students’ needs early and connect them with the right strategies, resources, or supports before problems become more serious. The I&RS process also helps teachers and staff develop effective ways to assist students in the classroom.

Who the I&RS Team Is:

Each school has an I&RS Team that includes:

• The Principal or a staff member appointed by the Principal (Team Chairperson)

• A Child Study Team member or educational specialist

• The teacher or staff member who referred the student

• Other staff members (such as a counselor, nurse, or social worker) who can help address the student’s needs

This multidisciplinary approach ensures that the student receives well-rounded support addressing both academic and personal factors that may affect learning.

How the Process Works:

1. Referral:
   A student may be referred to the I&RS Team by a teacher, staff member, or parent if they notice difficulties in learning, behavior, or health. Parents are always informed when a referral is made.

2. Information Gathering:
   The team collects information from teachers, parents, and, if needed, the school nurse or outside agencies to understand the student’s challenges.

3. Action Plan:
   The I&RS Team creates a written Action Plan outlining strategies, classroom supports, and any community resources that may help the student.
   The plan may include:

   • Adjustments in classroom instruction

   • Behavior management strategies

   • Health or counseling referrals

   • Additional academic supports

4. Parents are invited to provide input and are essential partners in developing and carrying out the plan.

5. Follow-Up and Review:
   The I&RS Team reviews the plan’s progress within eight weeks to see if the interventions are helping.

   • If the student shows improvement, the plan continues or may be phased out.

   • If the student continues to struggle, the plan is modified, or the student may be referred for a Child Study Team evaluation to determine if special education services are needed.
     
     

Annual Review:

At the end of every school year, the Principal and I&RS Team review all the cases handled and prepare a report for the Superintendent. This helps the district improve its programs and supports for all students.

Parent Involvement:

Parents are key partners throughout the process. The district encourages families to share their insights, participate in meetings, and work collaboratively with teachers and staff to ensure that their child receives the best possible support.

Confidentiality:

All information gathered through the I&RS process is handled confidentially, following state and federal laws. Records are maintained in a secure and private manner.

Harrison Board of Education Student Intervention and Referral Services Policy (2417)

Harrison Board of Education Student Intervention and Referral Services Regulations (2417)