Lower Moreland High School

STUDENT HANDBOOK 2014-2015

555 Red Lion Road

Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006

High School Office 215-938-0220 Guidance Office 215-938-0114

Attendance 215-947-3603

Web site: www.lmtsd.org

“Expanding Horizons.... Individualizing Excellence”

Home of the.........LIONS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

General Information

Athletics and Extracurricular Activities 1 Courtesy 1 Class Dues 1 Class Rank 1 Fire Drills 2 Graduation Requirements 2 Guidance and Counseling Services 2 Health Services 2 Homebound Instruction and Tutoring 2 Honor Roll 3 Insurance 3 Library 3 Lockers 3 Lost and Found 3 Marking System 3 National Honor Society 4 Parent Conferences 4 PTA 4 School Closing/Late Opening 4 Student Assistance Program 4 Student Government 5 Study Skills 5 Summer School 5 Visitors 5 Working Papers

School Policy Academic Responsibility 5 Attendance and Truancy 6 Bell Schedule 11 Bus Rules 12 Cafeteria and Eating 12 Care of School Property 12 Computers 12 Detention 12 Hall Passes 12 Homework 13 Motor Vehicles 13 Passes for Leaving School 13 Saturday Detention 13 Searches 13 Study Halls 13

Code of Conduct 14 Safety Rules for Lower Moreland School Buses 17 Code of Academic Integrity 20

GENERAL INFORMATION ATHLETICS AND EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES Athletics add a great deal to school life both for players and spectators. Good sportsmanship and fair play are important ingredients to maintain Lower Moreland’s standards. Students must be in good standing as far as general school citizenship. Students may participate in a variety of athletic and extracurricular activities offered at the high school. Eligibility - Any student must be passing four credits of course work to be eligible to participate. Sports offered: Baseball, Basketball, Cheerleading, Cross Country, Football, Golf, Hockey, Lacrosse, Soccer, Softball, Swimming, Tennis, Track, and Wrestling. Extracurricular activities: Academic Decathlon, Chess Club, Debate, Drama, Elmleo (Yearbook), French Club, GSA, German Club, Interact/TASC, Lemon Club, Lion’s Roar (Newspaper), Math Club, Mock Trial, NHS (by selection only), Pep Band, SADD, Science Club (PJAS), Spanish Club, Stage Crew, Student Council, Student Forum, Tech Crew, THON, Varsity Singers, World Affairs Council. COURTESY Courtesy to teachers, school employees, other students and visitors is expected. Consideration of others, regardless of race, religion, or economic background, is encouraged. Students are to respect and obey the judgment of their teachers and show courtesy to all those on the support staff who are serving the school population. Rudeness will result in disciplinary action. CLASS DUES Each class is assessed dues in order to meet its class financial obligations. Senior class dues include the yearbook, cap and gown, picnic and senior gift to the school upon graduation. CLASS RANK - Grade 12 Each rank is based on 9

th, 10

th, 11

th and first semester senior grades.

Point values are placed on all grades. Those who complete more difficult, designated courses are granted additional points. Students are reminded that class rank is reported in deciles and is a reflection of one’s standing in their graduating class. Class rank is of special importance to seniors applying to college.

1 FIRE DRILLS Fire drills at monthly intervals are required by law and are an important safety precaution. It is essential that when the first signal is given, everyone obeys orders promptly and clears the building by the prescribed route. The teacher in each classroom will give instructions. GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS A minimum of 24 credits must be satisfactorily completed from grades 9 through 12 to fulfill Lower Moreland graduation requirements. Please refer to the Program of Studies for specific course requirements by grade and academic area. All debts and financial obligations must also be met prior to graduation. GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING SERVICES – 215-938-0114 The Guidance Department is available to help students with school related or personal problems. Meetings with the Counselors may be scheduled through the guidance secretary. Extended education, college and scholarship information is available in the guidance office. Scholarship applications should be investigated early in the school year. HEALTH SERVICES A nurse is on duty at the high school daily from 7:30 am to 2:30 pm. Only first aid and emergency care will be given at school. All medications must be dispensed by the nurse along with written permission by the parent/guardian on the appropriate form. Non-prescription medication (aspirin, Tylenol, antihistamines, etc.) must be supplied by the parent. All medications to be administered must be in the original container and prescription medication must be in the container with the prescription label attached. Students needing to take medication while at school must see the nurse. The school will make every effort to inform the parent of any accident or illness occurring at school. However, no student will be sent home unless a responsible adult is there to receive him or her. Students who leave school without the approval of the nurse or an administrator will be subject to disciplinary consequences. HOMEBOUND INSTRUCTION Any student who is unable to attend school for a long period of time due to illness or other incapacity, is eligible for homebound instruction. Requests are to be made through the Guidance Department.

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HONOR ROLL Standards for achievement are: “Regular Honors,” awarded to any student who maintains at least a B- average in each subject meeting every day and no grade of less than C- in any other subject and “Distinguished Honors,” awarded to any student who maintains at least an A- average in each subject meeting every day and no grade of less than B- in any other subject. INSURANCE Students participating in varsity and JV interscholastic football are insured by the school district. All other sports participants must carry their own insurance. LIBRARY The library has books, magazines and pamphlets for assigned study and recreational reading. It is open for use during the school day and a short time before and after school. Fines are charged for material overdue at an established rate.

LOCKERS Each student is assigned a hall locker for the storage of books and equipment. It is the student’s responsibility to see that his/her locker is kept locked and in order at all times. Since lockers are a permanent part of the building, and property of the school, students are expected to keep them in good, usable condition, as they may be inspected periodically. It is recommended and encouraged that students not leave personal property in their gym lockers overnight. The school district is not responsible for articles lost or stolen. LOST AND FOUND The lost and found is located in the main office. It is requested that students who find lost articles bring them to the office where they can be claimed by the owner. MARKING SYSTEM A+ 98-100 A 93-97 A- 90-92 B+ 87-89 B 83-86

B- 80-82 C+ 77-79 C 73-76 C- 70-72 D+ 68-69

D 65-67 F 55-64 R Below 55 – Repeat course

Report Cards and Progress Reports are issued four times a year as noted on the district calendar.

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NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY Qualified students in the 10

th, 11

th, and 12

th grades are eligible for

membership in the National Honor Society. In addition to scholarship, selection is based on the qualities of character, leadership, and service. Further information is available at the National Honor society link on the High School website. PARENT CONFERENCES Parents may make appointments for conferences with teachers, counselors, or administrators by calling the school offices: main office, 215-938-0220 and guidance, 215-938-0114. PTA The Parent-Teacher Association of Lower Moreland is an active, vital group that enthusiastically supports our school district in many ways. All parents are urged to join PTA and to become involved. For more information, see the PTA tab on the High School homepage. SCHOOL CLOSING/LATE OPENING In case of closing of school due to ice, snow, or other emergencies updates will posted at www.lmtsd.org, as well as, a recording on our emergency information line, 215-947-2777. Additionally, announcements will be made on KYW 1060AM radio station under school number, 318. In the event of a school closing or late opening, the superintendent will send a phone message to all families in the district. STUDENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM The Lower Moreland High School Student Assistance Program (SAP) provides supportive services to students experiencing problems involving drug and alcohol use or serious mental or emotional issues such as depression. The Student Assistance Team is a group of teachers, counselors, and administrators who have been specifically trained to identify and refer “high risk” students to appropriate community based treatment programs and services. The Student Assistance Program also provides faculty in-servicing, Student Awareness and Prevention activities including support groups and parent involvement. If students are having problems with drugs, alcohol or depression, or just need to talk to someone, assistance is available through the guidance counselors or the community counselor.

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STUDENT GOVERNMENT The Student Council is the student governing body comprised of delegates from each class, plus elected officers. STUDY SKILLS The importance of developing good study skills and their relationship to eventual success as a student cannot be over-emphasized. The faculty will require that each student have the following materials for each class: 1) pencils and blue or black ink pens, and 2) a loose leaf notebook and paper. This agenda book can be a useful tool in organizing student assignments. SUMMER SCHOOL The Lower Moreland School District does not sponsor a remedial summer school program, but programs are available in neighboring districts. Students in need of summer school should contact the guidance office. Summer school grades are recorded on the student’s permanent record in addition to the regular school grade. VISITORS The school policy is to accept only those visitors who have legitimate business at the school. Upon arrival, visitors must register in the office by presenting a driver’s license and stating the reason for the visitation and/or the person to be visited. Parents are always welcome. Students may not bring guests to school. Visitors are expected to sign out with the attendance clerk and leave promptly when their business is completed. WORKING PAPERS As required by Pennsylvania State Law, working papers must be obtained by any person under 18 years of age desiring a job. It is mandatory that the minor’s parent or guardian apply in person. Proof of birth date must be presented.

SCHOOL POLICY

ACADEMIC RESPONSIBILITY It is the position of Lower Moreland High School that a student’s academic responsibilities and obligations supersede those of after school activities. Responsibilities such as making up missed work and obtaining extra help, or obligations such as detentions must be given preference to other activities.

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ATTENDANCE AND TRUANCY The purpose of these student attendance guidelines is to identify various laws, regulations and guidelines for attendance which are mandated or agreed upon, and to present the procedures to implement enforcement of student attendance regulations. Compulsory School Attendance Regular school attendance is necessary for a successful school experience. Instructional continuity is interrupted and the valuable interaction that occurs with teachers and among fellow students is lost when a student is frequently absent, tardy or dismissed early from school. Realizing that regular attendance in school is necessary for students to gain maximum benefits from public education, the School District urges all parents/guardians to stress punctuality and regular attendance habits with their children. Policy No. 204 of the Lower Moreland Township School District regulates attendance in the schools of Lower Moreland. In addition, the school laws of Pennsylvania require every parent, guardian, or other person having control or charge of a child or children between the ages of eight and seventeen to send them to school. The laws further require that, “Once a parent elects to send his child to school, the child must attend continuously until seventeen years of age, has graduated from a senior high school or has secured legal employment at age sixteen.” If parents will not insist that the child take advantage of the free educational opportunities offered, it becomes the duty of the state and the district to require that the student attends school. Excused Absence The school will classify an absence as “excused” for one of the following reasons only:

Illness Quarantine Death in the family Family Educational tours or trips WITH prior approval (not to

exceed ten days per year) Religious holidays or observances

Any absence that can be anticipated beforehand should be brought to the attention of the building principal well in advance of the absence. Secondary students who are absent in excess of twenty percent (20%) of the regularly scheduled class meetings of a particular course may be denied credit for the course, at the discretion of the building principal.

6 Educational Tours or Trips: Requests by parents/guardians for permission to have children absent from school for educational tours or trips must be made to and processed by the principal or his/her designee. The request must be received by the principal at least two weeks prior to the anticipated absence. The total number of approved days of absence shall not exceed ten (10) days in a given school year. Days exceeding these guidelines shall be considered unlawful and/or unexcused. The parent/guardian must assume the responsibility for checking with the principal or his/her designee, at least one (1) week or more if possible, in advance of the trip, to ascertain the present scholastic standing of the child in the class. The student shall be held responsible for making up missed assignments. Families are encouraged to avoid family vacations or educational field trips during the state testing windows. Religious Observation: All absences occasioned by observance of the student’s religion on a day approved by the Board as a religious holiday shall be excused. A penalty shall not be attached to an absence for a religious observance. Unexcused or Unlawful Absences All absences for reasons other than those previously cited will be considered as “unexcused.” Unexcused absences include, but are not limited to, the following:

Shopping trips Oversleeping Car trouble Missing the bus Pleasure trips/sporting events Illegal absences from school

All “unexcused” absences for students under the age of seventeen are also recorded as “unlawful.” Parent Responsibility When a student is absent from school, the parent must notify the school by calling 215-938-0270 early in the morning to report any absences. Upon the student's return to school from an absence, a parent/guardian must provide a “blue card” excuse card complete with the date of the absence, the reason for the absence, and a parent/guardian signature supporting the absence. The “blue card” is to be given to the Attendance Clerk or Secretary in the Main Office. A “blue card” must be presented within five (5) days of the student's return to school. Electronic submission of this excuse may also take place in the form of an email or fax to the building principal’s secretary. If a “blue card” is not returned, the absence will be permanently considered unlawful.

7 District Responsibility An automated call will be sent to families whose student is marked absent if the family has not reported their student's absence to alert them that their child is not in school. The District will notify the parent/guardian in writing of the first, second, and third unlawful absence(s). Following the third unlawful absence, the District will coordinate a school-family conference to discuss truancy and develop a mutually agreed upon Truancy Elimination Plan (TEP). The fourth unlawful absence, and every one that follows, will result in referral to the magisterial district judge or the local Children and Youth agency. Tardiness and Early Dismissal Whenever students arrive late or depart prior to the end of the school day, parents must present the school with a “yellow card” written note explaining the situation. These incidents are recorded as “excused” or “unexcused” applying the same criteria as those for full-day absences. Students arriving after the midpoint of the school day or departing before the midpoint of the school day will be recorded as ½ day absent. Occasionally, student appointments are scheduled during the school day. If this need arises, please send a note to the main office stating the rationale for the appointment and the time for pickup. The office will call the classroom for your student to report to the office upon parent/ guardian arrival. The student and or parents/guardian must report to the greeter in the lobby to sign "out" of school for all appointments. College Visitations and Medical Appointments: Students requesting excusal from school for these reasons are required to present written evidence of the appointment prior to the excusal, if possible, and definitely upon the return to school on a form obtained from the attendance office. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action. Early Dismissal: Students who desire an early dismissal should report to the attendance secretary in the Main Office prior to 7:25 am. A “Yellow Card” from the parent stating the reason for the request is required. Appointments for doctors, dentists, etc. should be made at a time other than during the school day, whenever possible. Early dismissals will be verified with parents. Students who leave school without written administrative approval will be subject to disciplinary action.

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Family Trips: All students requesting to be excused for purposes of family travel must submit an application to the district superintendent at least two weeks prior to the planned trip. Excused family trips may not exceed ten school days in a given year. All additional days will be considered Unexcused Absences. Lateness: A student is late if he/she is not in Forum by 7:25 am. A test or quiz missed due to an excused lateness will be rescheduled by the teacher. It is the student’s responsibility to see the teacher on the day of the lateness before the student’s lunch period to make arrangements. At the discretion of the teacher, the student may be required to make up the test on the day of the lateness. Make-up Work: It is the responsibility of the student to make up any work missed for any reason. This must be done within a period of time equal to the time missed during the excused absence. Arrangements are to be made with the teacher. Unexcused Absences/Make-Up Work: At the discretion of the teacher students with unexcused absence or lateness may be permitted to make up work. Sports/Activity Participation: Any student who has not been properly admitted to school by 8:30 am shall not be permitted to participate in any scheduled interscholastic contest/activity on that day. Cumulative Absences Whenever a student accumulates fifteen or more absences in a school year, an “Attendance Improvement Plan” will be developed to improve student attendance. Pre-approved family educational trips/tours, pre-approved college visitation absences, and absences excused by a doctor’s note will not be included. All absences beyond fifteen cumulative days will require an excuse from a physician. Consecutive Absences Whenever a student has ten (10) consecutive absences and there is no evidence that these absences are “excused,” the district shall begin the process to remove the student from its active membership roll. Unlawful Absence Consequences Schools are a critical part of a child’s support system and have a significant opportunity to assist children and families. Therefore, a letter will be sent to the parent/guardian after each unlawful absence.

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(1) First Unlawful Absence Parent/guardian receives a letter of unlawful absence from the school district. The legal penalties established by law for violation of compulsory attendance requirements are attached to the letter. In addition to stating the legal punishments, the name and telephone number of a school contact person shall be included. Parents are then able to contact a specific person to request assistance. (2) Second Unlawful Absence Parent/guardian receives a second letter of unlawful absence from the school district. Once again, the legal penalties established by law for violation of compulsory attendance requirements and the name and telephone number of a school contact personal shall be included. Additionally, another offer of assistance should be made to the parent. (3) Third Unlawful Absence Parent/guardian receives a third letter of unlawful absence by certified mail providing “official notice of child’s third illegal absence.” Attached to this letter will be penalties for violation of compulsory attendance requirements as they pertain to both the student and the parent/guardian, including information that three days after giving such notice, the student or parent/guardian who again violates the compulsory attendance requirements shall be liable without further notice. The School district shall coordinate a school/family conference to discuss the cause of the child’s truancy and develop a mutually agreed upon Truancy Elimination Plan (TEP) to resolve truant behavior. Issues to be reviewed at the school/family conference include the appropriateness of the child’s educational environment, current academic difficulties, physical or behavioral health issues, and family/environment concerns. At the end of the conference all parties should sign a comprehensive TEP that is agreed to by the school representative, the child, and the parents and/or family. The plan could include accessing academic and social/health supports from the school and community organizations, an outline of family/parent and student responsibilities, and levels of performance monitoring that include rewards and consequences. (4) Subsequent Unlawful Absence After agreeing to a truancy elimination plan (TEP), or if there is not agreement on a TEP and three (3) days have passed since the parent/guardian received the official letter of the child’s third illegal absence, if a child is unlawfully absent, at any point within the school year, an official letter of unlawful absence will be sent home. The purpose of this correspondence is to inform the child’s parent/guardian that the child has again violated the compulsory attendance requirements, and advise the parent/guardian that a citation will immediately be sent to the magisterial district judge. To ensure the parent/guardian receives the notice, the notice will be sent through certified mail. After this step, the school shall continue to contact the parent/guardian to inform them of additional truant behavior. The school will refer all future incidents of truancy directly to the magisterial district judge having jurisdiction in the region.

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Habitually Truant The School Code defines habitually truant as an absence for more than three (3) school days or their equivalent following the first notice of truancy given after a child’s third unlawful absence. Referral to County Children and Youth Agency (a) Children Under 13 Years of Age Any child who has not attained the age of 13 who fails to comply with the compulsory attendance requirements and is habitually truant, shall be referred by the school district to the local county children and youth agency for services, which may include addressing family issues that may be responsible for the child’s truant behavior, or possible adjudication as a “dependent” child under the Juvenile Act. The referral to the county children and youth agency may be in addition to proceeding against the parent/guardian by sending the citation to the appropriate magisterial district judge or a school may decide to refer a family to the local county children and youth agency instead of sending a citation to the appropriate magisterial district judge. If the parent/guardian provides written consent, a copy of the TEP should be forwarded to the county children and youth agency. (b) Children 13 Years of Age and Older Any child who has attained the age of 13 who fails to comply with the compulsory attendance requirements and is habitually truant may, in lieu of being prosecuted (as described below), be referred by the school district to the local county children and youth agency for services, which may include addressing family issues that may be responsible for the child’s truant behavior or, possible adjudication as a dependent child under the Juvenile Act. (Refer to the district website for further information regarding unlawful absenses.) BELL SCHEDULE

Period Time Minutes

Warning Bell 7:20 am HR/Forum 7:25- 7:35 10 1 7:38- 8:23 45 2 8:26- 9:11 45 3 9:14- 9:59 45 A 10:02- 10:25 23 Lunch 4 10:28- 10:47 19 B 10:50- 11:13 23 Lunch 5 11:16- 11:35 19 C 11:38- 12:01 23 Lunch 6 12:04- 12:23 19 D 12:26- 12:49 23 Lunch 7 12:52- 1:37 45 8 1:40- 2:25 45

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BUS RULES All students who use district transportation services are expected to comply with regulations set forth in the Safety Rules for Lower Moreland School Buses which can be found on page 17 . CAFETERIA AND EATING Lunch A - 10:02 am – 10:25 am Lunch B - 10:50 am – 11:13 am Lunch C - 11:38 am – 12:01 pm Lunch D - 12:26 pm – 12:49 pm

Upon finishing meals, students are to leave the table and floor in a clean condition for others by depositing litter in the waste baskets. Students violating cafeteria rules will be subject to disciplinary action.

CARE OF SCHOOL PROPERTY Students are responsible for the care of school books, supplies, furniture and athletic equipment. Damage to the physical building, to equipment or school property must be paid for or replacement made. COMPUTERS Violation of the rules and code of ethics, or, indeed, any action or attempt to disrupt the intended functioning of any district computer facility will be dealt with under the Code of Conduct. Disciplinary action may include, but not be limited to, detention, suspension, or expulsion as well as restitution and suspension of computer privileges. DETENTION Detention is assigned when a student does not fulfill his/her responsibilities as a student. Failure to report to detention is a serious matter which will result in disciplinary action. There are two kinds of detentions which may be assigned to students: 1. Classroom teachers - a teacher may assign an after-school

detention. Student reports to assigning teacher’s room. 2. Administrative detention will be served after school from 2:30

to 3:30 pm. In all cases, advance notice of one day will be given to students prior to serving detention. Those not served are automatically rescheduled for the following week.

HALL PASSES All students are required to have a hall pass when in the halls for any reason during a class period. This pass is to be presented to any faculty member or administrator upon request.

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HOMEWORK It is expected that all students will have some homework to do at least four nights a week. While the amount will vary from grade to grade, some study should be done at home. If no written work is assigned, the day’s notes or lessons can be reviewed. Long-term assignments should be planned and not left to the last few nights to be completed. When a student is absent from school, it is recommended that the student checks for assignments on teacher access center or on the teachers website. After a student is absent three days, the guidance office will gather homework at the request of a parent. A call to the guidance office will start procedures. The assignments can be picked up at 2:30 pm on the following day. Assignments cannot be obtained on the day of the call as this would interrupt the regular class instruction. The teacher will give an amount of time equivalent to the absence to make up the work. MOTOR VEHICLES The privilege of driving a vehicle to school will be suspended from students who do not comply with the following regulations: 1. All student vehicles must have a parking permit (cost $5.00)

and be registered with school security personnel. 2. Student vehicles must be parked in the assigned parking spot.

Students are not to park in parking areas in front of the building at any time.

3. No student is permitted to go to his/her car or to drive it during the day without permission.

4. Speed limit on the campus is 10 m.p.h.; drivers must come to a full stop at all stop signs and must follow the arrows.

5. Careless or reckless driving on campus is prohibited. 6. Excessive lateness can lead to suspension of driving

privileges. PASSES FOR LEAVING SCHOOL All requests to leave the building while school is in session must be cleared through a building administrator. Leaving school without administrative approval is a serious infraction of school regulations; violators will be subject to consequences ranging from two (2) Saturday detentions to suspension. SATURDAY DETENTION Saturday detentions are assigned for relatively serious infractions. Students must report by 8:00 am on Saturday and will be dismissed at noon. Students must bring work for the entire morning. Misbehavior in Saturday detention will result in three days of out-of-school suspension.

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SEARCHES Searches of a student’s person and/or personal effects, locker, and/or automobile may be conducted whenever a school administrator has reasonable suspicion to believe that the student is in possession of illegal, unauthorized, or contraband material. STUDY HALLS Study halls are created for the benefit of students and are to be used wisely and effectively. No one may leave a study hall without written permission. Students may use the library during this time.

CODE OF CONDUCT

The Lower Moreland Township School District has established a Code of Conduct that outlines expected behavior when students travel to and from school, in school, at school-sponsored activities or trips, and when using computers. It also explains the consequences of any misbehavior. It is the responsibility of each student to respect the rights of all who are involved in the educational process. LEVEL I Level/Description of Behavior Level I misconduct interferes with the education of another student, the orderly operation of the school, and/or a school function. This misconduct can often be handled by a staff member but sometimes may require the intervention of administration. Examples Exhibit disruptive behavior Exhibit disrespectful behavior Speak in a way that teases, hurts, or harasses others Unauthorized use of cell phones, recording devices, electronic

games or cameras Unexcused absence or tardiness to school, class, or regular

assignment Violate the school dress code policy Use inappropriate language Loitering in the lavatories Eat outside of the cafeteria without permission Any offense deemed by an administrator that causes or has the

potential to cause a disruption of the educational process or constitutes a health or safety issue

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Disciplinary Responses One or more of the following: teacher warning or reprimand teacher detention restorative conference parent notification parent conference administrative warning or reprimand behavior contract SAP referral loss of privileges 1-3 day detention Other restorative measures as deemed appropriate by an

administrator

LEVEL II Level/Description of Behavior Level II misconduct involves behavior whose frequency or seriousness tends to disrupt the learning climate of the school or are repeated Level I behaviors for which intervention has not been successful. Level II behaviors require corrective action from administrative personnel. Examples

Unchanged or accumulated Level 1 offenses Failure to follow a reasonable request Throwing food/objects in the cafeteria Failure to follow the Computer and Technology Code of Ethics Act in a disrespectful or defiant manner toward any school personnel

/ insubordination Destroy the work of others Forgery, cheating, or plagiarizing (See Code of Academic Integrity) Cut class or be absent from an assigned location Fight or assault Harass another student Make a threat Bullying / Cyberbullying (See Bullying Policy) Cause minor vandalism Commit minor theft Participate in any gambling activity Carry, handle, or possess a dangerous object Act in a way that endangers the safety of themselves or others Use inappropriate language, gestures, or symbols to demean others

including but not limited to profanity, racial, ethnic, religious, homophobic, or sexually derogatory terms

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Use school facilities or property without permission Miss a scheduled school detention Any offense deemed by an administrator that causes or has the

potential to cause a disruption of the educational process or constitutes a health or safety issue

Disciplinary Responses

Other restorative measures as deemed appropriate by an administrator

LEVEL III

Level/Description of Behavior

Level III misconduct involves acts directed towards a person or property. Those acts which are criminal or illegal will be referred to local law enforcement. Examples

Unchanged or accumulated Level 2 offenses Violate password protection of a computer system, download illegal

software to cause damage to a system or cause a security breach, or modify a system file

Threaten or strike a staff member Make a threat using words including but not limited to “bomb, kill,

gun, or shoot” Endanger the safety of others with a bomb threat, make threatening

or illegal telephone calls, make unauthorized use of fire alarm equipment, or make terroristic threats

Cause significant vandalism Possess or use tobacco products and/or look alike substances or

paraphernalia on school grounds or at school functions Possess or use controlled or illegal substances such as alcohol, or

other drugs, and/or look alike chemical substances or paraphernalia associated with illegal substances, on school grounds or at school functions

Possession of any prescription or non-prescription medication

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Parent notification and one or more of the following: 2-5 day detention 1-3 day suspension loss of privileges behavior contract restorative conference restitution for theft or vandalism SAP referral consequences outlined in the Code of Academic Integrity

Under the influence at school or school sponsored events Lead or participate in a large group misconduct or disturbance Possess or use any weapon, object that looks like a weapon, or

object that can be used as a weapon (such as scissors, nail clippers, box cutter, pocket knife, knife, matches, lighter, open flame) on school grounds, the bus, or at school functions

Perform or attempt to perform arson Engage in lewd behavior, indecent exposure, or sexual acts Commit major theft of school or personal property Commit aggravated assault, which causes injury to another person Break into any school district building or vehicle Extortion Any offense deemed by an administrator that causes or has the

potential to cause a disruption of the educational process or constitutes a health or safety issue

Disciplinary Responses

Parent notification and one or more of the following: 3-10 day suspension loss of privileges expulsion referral to law enforcement authorities referral to the District justice restorative conference restitution for theft or vandalism SAP referral Other restorative measures as deemed appropriate by an

administrator

SAFETY RULES FOR LOWER MORELAND SCHOOL BUSES

Children who are eligible for bus service will receive their bus assignment via a posting on the district web page in August. Please note that bus times are approximate and may vary due to traffic, weather, or time of year. For example, early in the school year buses may arrive somewhat early or late until the bus routes become routine.

Bus drivers are requested to report inappropriate behavior. Serious behavior issues or repeated infractions may result in suspension of bus riding privileges. Transportation to and from school then becomes the responsibility of the parents.

Students are not permitted to ride on a bus other than the one to which they are assigned, unless they have a permission note signed by their parent/guardian and the school administration/school office.

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The Lower Moreland Township School District provides students with bus service for their convenience and safety. In order to keep the ride to and from school safe for everyone, students must behave in a responsible and respectful manner. All school rules and behavior expectations outlined in the Code of Conduct are in effect. Following the rules below will help to keep our buses safe and comfortable for everyone.

Waiting for the Bus Help the buses run on time. Be at your stop at least five

minutes early. Be considerate of private property. Stay off the lawns of homes

near the bus stop. Stay off the road while waiting for your bus. Do not approach the bus while it is still moving. Do not push or crowd when getting on the bus. If you are late, never run after a moving bus. Turn around and

go home. Parents are responsible for children at bus stops.

Safety Guidelines Students, who must cross the street, must wait for a signal

from the bus driver. Walk at least 10 feet out from the front bumper of the school

bus and you will stay outside the danger zone surrounding the school bus.

Students must always remain where the driver can see them. Students must always cross in front of the school bus. Balls for sports are not allowed on the bus unless they fit in the

students’ school bags and stay there at all times.

Three General Rules Always follow the directions of the bus driver. Obey all safety rules. Be courteous to all passengers and respect what belongs to

them.

Bus Rules Find a seat as soon as you board the bus. Do not leave your

seat while the bus is moving. Face the front of the bus at all times and stay seated until it stops.

Share your seat with others. Three small students may fit in a seat as long as a student is not hanging out into the aisle.

Keep your hands and head inside the bus at all times. Keep objects out of the aisle. Gym bags, instruments, school

projects, etc., that do not fit on your lap or underneath your seat, will not be allowed on the bus.

Speak at a moderate level and do not cause disturbances on the bus. Loud talking, laughing, and yelling can be distracting to the driver.

Help keep the bus clean. Don’t throw trash on the floor or out the windows.

Do not eat or drink on the bus. 18

Leaving the Bus Always cross the street 10 feet in front of the bus where the

driver can see you. Stay 10 feet away from the side of the bus, unless you are

approaching the entrance door. Drivers are allowed to drop off passengers only at the students’

regularly scheduled bus stops. Special needs and kindergarten students will not be dropped

off if no one is at the bus stop to meet them. All other students, in grades 1 through 12, will be dropped off whether or not there is someone there to meet them.

Transportation Privileges Bus transportation is a privilege, not a right and accordingly the bus rules of conduct and behavior must be followed by all students. Failure to follow the rules can create an unsafe environment on or around the bus, which increases the risk of injury or accident for all the other riders and drivers. These rules help insure safe bus transportation for students and bus drivers. Students who violate these safety regulations may be excluded from riding the bus. Parents are responsible for transporting their child to and from school if the child has been excluded from bus transportation. LEVEL I

Examples

Not staying seated while the bus is moving Exiting the bus at an unauthorized location Not sharing seats with others Not keeping the bus clean Eating or drinking on the bus without the permission of the

driver Using cell phones, cameras, or recording devices at any time

on the school bus (cell phones must be concealed and turned off at all times)

Not following the bus driver’s directions as soon as they are issued

Any offense deemed by an administrator that causes or has the potential to cause a health or safety issue

Consequences of misbehavior Parental notification and one or more of the following:

Verbal warning Temporary or permanent assigned seat Behavior contract One to three days detention

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LEVEL II Examples

Unchanged or accumulated Level 1 offenses Not keeping hands, head and feet inside the bus Throwing any object on the bus or out of the bus Vandalizing the bus or personal property Acting in a disrespectful or defiant manner toward the bus

driver Any offense deemed by an administrator that causes or has

the potential to cause a health or safety issue Consequences of misbehavior Parental notification and one or more of the following:

Assigned permanent seat Two to five days detention One to five days bus suspension One to three days school suspension

LEVEL III Examples Possession or use of the following:

Unchanged or accumulated Level 2 offenses Behaviors or conduct considered a Level III misconduct as

listed in the Code of Conduct Any offense deemed by an administrator that causes or has

the potential to cause a health or safety issue

Consequences of misbehavior Parental notification and one or more of the following:

Five day or longer bus suspension Three to ten days school suspension Expulsion hearing Referral to law enforcement agency

CODE OF ACADEMIC INTEGRITY Our Mission

At the Lower Moreland Township School District, we are committed to promoting a learning environment based on a foundation of personal integrity, credibility, and academic honesty. Students and staff members are jointly responsible for fostering an environment where academic integrity is expected. The Code of Academic Integrity will serve to guide the conduct of students.

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Our approach to creating an environment conducive to academic integrity is based on the Honor Above All program created by the Josephson Institute of Ethics. I. Definitions of Academic Dishonesty A. Assessments: Using or attempting to use/provide unauthorized assistance, material, or study aids prior to or during any assessment. This definition includes, but is not limited to:

1. Copying, or allowing another student to copy, answers from an assessment

2. Orally communicating answers during an assessment. 3. Transmitting answers by use of non-verbal signals during an

assessment. 4. Using information from any electronic device (including cell phones,

programmable calculators, and/or tablet PC’s) without authorization from the classroom teacher.

5. Providing or receiving information about an assessment, including answers or questions from an assessment. This includes sharing information about assessments with students from other class periods.

6. Having or using a piece of paper with answers, formulas, information, or notes that is not specifically authorized by the classroom teacher.

7. Working with other students on a take-home assessment unless specifically authorized by the classroom teacher.

B. Homework and Notes: Passing all or part of someone else’s homework or notes as your own. This definition includes, but is not limited to:

1. Copying any part of someone else’s homework or notes. 2. Giving someone your homework or notes to copy. 3. Using someone else’s homework or notes as your own in order to

receive academic credit.

C. Plagiarism in Papers and Assignments: Using ideas, data, or language of another person or source without specific or proper permission, acknowledgment, and/or citation. This definition includes, but is not limited to:

1. Including in any assignment turned in for credit any materials not based on your own research and writing. This includes:

a. Having someone else research and/or write your assignment. b. Copying part or all of another student’s assignment and submitting it as your own. c. Copying all or part of an idea from a published source.

2. Writing or researching someone else’s assignment or paper.

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D. Group/Partner Work: Each student is expected to contribute equally to group / partner assignments. Examples of failure to meet this expectation might include but not limited to:

1. Taking credit for work of others with little to no contribution 2. Failure to complete assigned individual role

E. Other Forms of Academic Dishonesty

1. Deceiving a teacher or making up a false reason or excuse to get special consideration on an assessment or an extension for any assessment, paper, homework, or any other assignment.

2. Forging a signature. 3. Falsifying or misrepresenting data. 4. Knowingly help another student violate any provision of this code. 5. Please note, attempted academic dishonesty, even if

unsuccessful, will be treated as academic dishonesty. II. Consequences Disciplinary action will be commensurate with the offense. A. Disciplinary action may include one or more of the following:

1. Warning 2. Point deduction or a score of zero on the assignment or

assessment 3. Assignment of additional work, alternative work, or retesting 4. Notification of parents/guardians 5. Parent, teacher, and administrator conference 6. Detention 7. Suspension

Amended June 2014

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