MSAD 9 Policy Manual (continued

A. Computer Use is a Privilege, Not a Right

Student use of MSAD#9's computers, networks and Internet services is a privilege, not a right. Unacceptable use/activity may result in suspension or cancellation of privileges as well as additional disciplinary and/or legal action.

The building principal shall have final authority to decide whether a student's privileges will be denied or revoked.

B. Acceptable Use

Student access to MSAD#9's computers, networks and Internet services are provided for educational purposes and research consistent with the school unit's educational mission, curriculum and instructional goals.

The same rules and expectations govern student use of computers as apply to other student conduct and communications.

Students are further expected to comply with these rules and all specific instructions from the teacher or other supervising staff member/volunteer when accessing the school unit's computers, networks and Internet services, including, but not limited to any online subscription services that support curriculum.

C. Prohibited Use

The user is responsible for his/her actions and activities involving school unit computers, networks and Internet services and for his/her computer files, passwords and accounts. Examples of unacceptable uses that are expressly prohibited include but are not limited to the following:

1. Accessing Inappropriate Materials - Accessing, submitting, posting, publishing, forwarding, downloading, scanning or displaying materials that are defamatory, abusive, obscene, vulgar, sexually explicit, sexually suggestive, threatening, discriminatory, harassing and/or illegal;

2. Illegal Activities - Using MSAD #9's computers, networks and Internet services for any illegal activity that violates other Board policies, procedures and/or school rules;

3. Violating Copyrights - Copying or downloading copyrighted materials without the owner's permission;

4. Plagiarism - Representing as one's own work and materials obtained on the Internet (such as term papers, articles, etc.). When Internet sources are used in student work, the author, publisher and Web site must be identified;

5. Copying Software - Copying or downloading software without the express authorization of the system administrator;

6. Non-School-Related Uses - Using MSAD#9's computers, networks and Internet services for non-school-related purposes such as private financial gain, commercial, advertising or solicitation purposes, or for any other personal use;

7. Misuse of Passwords/Unauthorized Access - Sharing passwords, using other users' passwords without permission and/or accessing other users' accounts;

8. Malicious Use/Vandalism - Any malicious use, disruption or harm to MSAD#9's computers, networks and Internet services, including but not limited to hacking activities and creation/uploading of computer viruses; and

9. Unauthorized Access to Chat Rooms/News Groups - Accessing chat rooms or news groups without specific authorization from the supervising teacher.

MSAD#9 retains control, custody and supervision of all computers, networks and Internet services owned or leased by the school unit. The school unit reserves the right to monitor all computer and Internet activity by students. Students have no expectations of privacy in their use of school computers, including e-mail and stored files.

The student and/or the student's parent/guardian shall be responsible for compensating the school unit for any losses, costs or damages incurred by MSAD#9 related to violations of policy IJNDB and/or these rules, including investigation of violations.

3. School Unit Assumes No Responsibility for Unauthorized Charges, Costs or Illegal Use

MSAD#9 assumes no responsibility for any unauthorized charges made by students including but not limited to credit card charges, long distance telephone charges, equipment and line costs, or for any illegal use of its computers such as copyright violations.

A student shall not reveal his/her full name, address or telephone number on the Internet without prior permission from a supervising teacher. Students should never meet people they have contacted through the Internet without parental permission. Students should inform their supervising teacher if they access information or messages that are dangerous, inappropriate or make them uncomfortable in any way.

The security of MSAD#9's computers, networks and Internet services is a high priority. Any user who identifies a security problem must notify the system administrator. The user shall not demonstrate the problem to others. Any user who attempts or causes a breach of system security shall have his/her privileges revoked and may be subject to additional disciplinary and/or legal action.

It shall be the policy of the Board of Directors to encourage the use of field trips and organizational trips as an educational tool or as a necessary supplement to an organized activity provided (1) that the trip is properly planned and approved in advance by the appropriate administrative offices; (2) that the trip is adequately chaperoned and supervised; (3) that if it is a field trip, that it has a true and specific educational value directly related to the present classwork; and, (4) that conveyance is provided by the School District to preserve the comfort and safety of the students.

It shall be the policy of the Board of Directors to encourage the use of field trips and organizational trips as an educational tool or as a necessary supplement to an organized activity provided (1) that the trip is properly planned and approved in advance by the appropriate administrative officers; (2) that the trip is adequately chaperoned and supervised; (3) that if it is a field trip, it has a true and specific educational value directly related to the present classwork; and (4) that conveyance is provided by the School District to preserve the comfort and safety of the students.

A. Arrangements must be made in advance by securing permission of the principal and the superintendent's Office (athletic trips may be arranged by the Athletic Director, principal and the Superintendent's Office). The Central Office will have the responsibility of scheduling all trips.

B. Generally, School district transportation will be used for all field trips, etc., which are sponsored by any schools within the District. Special permission must be given by the Central Office in order to use private vehicles. School District buses may only be used for activities which are sponsored by the School district or by a municipality within the boundary lines of the School District. MSAD No. 9 buses will not be used to transport students to any privately sponsored activities.

C. Ordinarily no field, organizational, or activity trips will be allowed during the winter months (December 1 to March 15) except for those trips which must be scheduled to meet commitment because of the school participating in a league, conference, association, or the like.

D. Each student going on a trip must have in advance the permission of the teacher accompanying the group, the principal of his/her school and the written permission of his/her parents.

E. At least one (1) member of the school professional staff for each twenty-five students in addition to the driver must travel in each bus used for trips. Chaperons shall be responsible for maintaining order on the buses as an aid to the driver. If, in the opinion of the driver, the safety and welfare of the passengers is in question, the driver shall take necessary steps to control the situation.

F. The driver is authorized to discontinue the trip and return to school when, in his/her judgment, continuing the trip would seriously endanger the safety of the passengers.

G. Drivers shall keep strictly to the previously approved route, and shall make no unscheduled stops or detours without specific permission from the Central Office. The exception to this rule will be directions by highway departments, police, or weather conditions.

H. Any other reasonable rules may be required by the principal or the Superintendent which pertains to conduct, safety, discipline, or which will aid in the control of students.

The mastery of standards in M.S.A.D. # 9 shows what a student has accomplished. Mastery is the point in a student's learning at which there are clear, observable, and consistent demonstrations of the subject area standards. A student mastering a standard can recall and apply this knowledge over time with minimal review and in varied circumstances.

The following rubric has been established to guide teachers in determining mastery of individual standards. Student evidence must also be collected to support this rubric.

The reporting/grading rubric will become effective in the 2001_2002 school year.

All schools, all subjects, and all grade levels will use the same grading rubric.

The following rubric has been established to guide teachers in determining mastery of individual standards. Student evidence must also be collected to support this rubric.

The reporting/grading rubric will become effective in the 2001-2002 school year:

All schools, all subjects, and all grade levels will use the same grading rubric.

A temporary grade of "I" (incomplete) may be issued. Students are allowed the same number of days as absent to make up incomplete assignments.

· Consistently performs high quality work (accurate, thorough timely)

· Consistently exceeds set criteria

· Consistently provides evidence of above_mastery for all tasks of subject standards

· Consistently shows excellent application of knowledge to other situations

"M" Meets the Standard

· Usually performs work of high quality (accurate, thorough, timely)

· Consistently meets set criteria

· Consistently provides evidence of mastery for most tasks of subject standards

· Consistently shows satisfactory application of knowledge to other situations

"W" Working Toward Meeting the Standard

· Does not perform satisfactory work independently

· Occasionally meets set criteria

· Has not shown mastery of all tasks, but is willing to try

· Occasionally shows application of knowledge to other situations

This student needs more time and assistance in helping him/her master the curriculum standard (s).

Should a student excel and achieve mastery of a curriculum standard or standards before other students, the student will be provided with enrichment activities related to the curriculum standard or standards, and/ or be provided the opportunity to move to the next curriculum or academic level.

Should a student not achieve mastery of a curriculum standard or standards, the student will participate in one or all of the following:

· After school tutorial sessions and /or summer school

· Repeat the educational experience (this could mean repeating a lesson, series of lessons, a course, or the entire year's instruction depending on the student's progress, ability, and/or attitude).

If a student does not achieve mastery of a curriculum standard or standards, and does not participate in any or all of the above remediation activities, he/she will be retained.

Parent's support is crucial in helping their child achieve mastery of all curriculum standards.

If parents do not agree with the evaluation of their child, they may consult with the child's teacher and school principal.

Recommendations about Assessments

Assessments should align with subject area standards. The final determination of mastery will be based on a collection of both qualitative and quantitative evidence. A combination of the following assessment tools will provide evidence that supports teacher decisions: student self assessments, formative and surnmative tests, written and oral assignments, projects, products, and student performance. Teachers will use more than one assessment to check for mastery. Teachers will "spiral" items on tests throughout the year.

· Does not perform work of satisfactory quality

· Does not meet set criteria .

· Has not shown mastery of most asks

· Does not show application of knowledge to other situations

Not Passing

The student will need to work until level of learning is acceptable. When number grades are used, an "F" is 59 and below, failing.

Should a student not achieve mastery of a curriculum standard or standards, the student will participate in one or all of the following:

· After school tutorial sessions and /or summer school

· Repeat the educational experience (this could mean repeating a lesson, series of lessons, a

course, or the entire year's instruction depending on the student's progress, ability, and/or

attitude)

If a student does not achieve mastery of a curriculum standard or standards, and does not

participate in any or all of the above remediation activities, he/she will be retained.

Parent's support is crucial in helping their child achieve mastery of all curriculum standards.

If parents do not agree with the evaluation of their child, they may consult with the child's teacher and school principal.

Recommendations about Assessments

Assessments should align with subject area standards. The final determination of mastery will be based on a collection of both qualitative and quantitative evidence. A combination of the following assessment tools will provide evidence that supports teacher decisions: student self assessments, formative and summative tests, written and oral assignments, projects, products, and student performance. Teachers will use more than one assessment to check for mastery. Teachers will "spiral" items on tests throughout the year.

Adopted: January 9, 2001

File: IKB

MSAD#9 recognizes the importance of developing good study habits and responsibility for assignments beginning at an early age. At the same time, it also recognizes the importance of learning acquired by children outside of school, through reading and listening, physical activity, and play, and the needs of children for free time to engage in these learning activities.

All homework assignments shall be for sound educational purposes. Homework properly designed, carefully planned, and geared to the development of the individual students, meets a real need and has a definite place in the educational program. It is assigned to help the student become more self-reliant, learn to work independently, improve the skills that have been taught, and complete certain projects such as reading of worthwhile books and the preparation of research papers. Home study assignments also afford a way for parents to acquaint themselves with the school program and their own children's educational progress.

2. Realistically, teacher time is limited, but assignments should be made with individual differences among students in mind. Parents should be encouraged to contact the child's teacher(s) and make adjustments by mutual consent if a child is working to his full capacity and is still unable to consistently finish assignments within the given time limits. Homework should never become such a burden that a child who is putting forth his best effort becomes defeated by it.

3. Homework assignments shall be worthy of the time necessary for being corrected and discussed by the teacher with the individual student and class.

4. A variety of approaches, activities, and techniques should be used by teachers when assigning homework, and reflect a balance from the basic categories of homework:

5. Emphasis on developing good study habits, both at home and in school, should be given at the beginning of each school year, and

7. There should be sufficient preparation for each assignment, so that the requirements are clearly understood by all pupils. Ample

B. Social Studies: Each student must complete and pass 2 1/2 credits of Social Studies. Included in this are 1 ½ credits (three semesters) of US History and Government, ½ credit of World History, and ½ credit of Geography.

D. Maine Studies: Each student must complete and pass one-half (1/2) year of Maine Studies during grades 7 to 12.

E. Mathematics: Each student must complete and pass three (3) credits of Mathematics.

F. Science: Each student must complete and pass two (2) credits of Science, one (1) of which must be a lab science.

H. Computer Skills: Each student must demonstrate competency in performing various computer skills.

I. Physical Education: Each Student must take and pass two (2) semesters of Physical Education.

In order for a student to participate in graduation ceremonies, the student must have successfully completed all of the above requirements.

A student who is deficient in the above listed requirements may meet those requirements through a post-graduate course, a State approved Adult Education course(s), or a correspondence course approved by the principal.

Current Maine law allows a student to graduate as soon as he/she has completed all graduation requirements. A student who wishes to graduate before his/her four (4) years of attendance is attained should notify the principal in writing of his/her intention. Once a request has been received, the principal, parents/guardians, and student will meet to discuss the request. The decision reached by the group will be filed in the student's academic folder, with a copy forwarded to the Superintendent.

MSAD No. 9 shall, on a regular basis, provide for the assessment of the academic achievement for all students. Teachers shall assess pupil academic performance on a regular basis.

MSAD No. 9 shall utilize the Maine Educational Assessment (MEA) tests and data and other standardized testing data. This data shall be utilized to assess pupil progress.

Teachers shall utilize appropriate testing materials to assess the progress of students toward identified instructional goals. This testing shall be done on a daily, unit, weekly, or quarterly basis as appropriate to the instructional program.

All schools shall issue written reports to parents each ranking period for students in grades K-12. Interim reports shall be prepared as needed. At all levels (K-12), there will be scheduled one (1) parent/teacher conference meeting each year with additional conferences scheduled as the need arises.

EDUCATIONAL RESEARCH: STUDENT SUBMISSION TO SURVEYS, ANALYSES, OR EVALUATIONS

In this policy, “surveys, analyses, or evaluations” refer to methods of gathering data for research purposes.

No student shall be required as part of any program wholly or partially funded by the U.S. Department of Education to submit to any survey, analyses, or evaluation that reveals information concerning:

E. Critical appraisals of other individuals with whom respondents have close family relationships;

F. Legally recognized privileged or analogous relationships, such as those of lawyers, physicians, and ministers;

G. Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or student’s parents; or

H. Income (other than that required by law to determine eligibility for participation in a program or for receiving financial assistance under such program without the prior written consent of the student’s parent/guardian, or of the student, if he/she is 18 years of age or older.)

All instructional materials, including teachers’ manuals, films, tapes, or other supplementary material which will be used in connection with any such survey, analysis, or evaluation shall be available upon request for inspection by the student’s parent/guardian. For the purpose of this policy, “instructional material” does not include academic tests or assessments.

A parent may inspect, upon request, a survey created by a third party before the survey is administered or distributed to a student.

The Superintendent/designee will be responsible for implementing any procedures necessary to protect the privacy of participating students and to provide parents with access to surveys within a reasonable time before administration or distribution.

The school unit will notify parents of this policy at least annually at the beginning of the school year and within a reasonable time of any substantive change in policy. Insofar as practicable,* the school unit will also directly notify parents annually at the beginning of the school year when surveys, analyses, or evaluations are scheduled or anticipated. Parents shall have the opportunity to opt their child out of participation in any survey, analysis, or evaluation. Students who are 18 years of age or older may opt out of such surveys, analyses, or evaluations.

* “Insofar as practicable” acknowledges that there may be circumstances in which a research request is made or is approved only after the school year has begun. When this occurs, the school unit should notify parents far enough in advance for them to access surveys and related instructional materials and to opt their children out, if desired.

The curriculum of MSAD #9 is designed to include statutory requirements and other areas of study deemed appropriate by the professional staff and the Board of Directors. The curriculum includes topics and materials that are age and ability appropriate to the students.

The Board of Directors acknowledges that from time to time individual students may be exposed to some ideas and materials with which they or their parents disagree. Students and their parents cannot be required to adopt ideas with which they disagree, but such disagreement alone is not a sufficient basis to exempt a student from the prescribed curriculum. Exemptions from the required curriculum should be minimized because they can detract from the overall instruction provided to the class as a whole and the educational objectives sought to be achieved by the curriculum.

The Board recognizes, however, that there could be topics on the curriculum which may be objectionable to individual students and/or parents based on their particular, sincerely held religious, moral, or philosophical beliefs. Exemption from instruction which infringes on such beliefs may be requested by the parent(s)/legal guardian(s).

Requests for exemption from instruction must be made in writing to the building Principal and are subject to the approval of the principal. The Principal shall notify the Superintendent, whose decision shall be final.

In considering requests for exemption, factors that the Principal should consider may include:

B. Whether the exemption will adversely affect the instruction provided to other students;

C. The educational importance of the material or instruction from which exemption is requested;

D. Evidence regarding the sincerity of the belief on which the request is based;

E. Whether the school has a legal obligation to accommodate the exemption request;

When a student is exempted from a portion of the regular curriculum, the staff will make reasonable efforts, within the scope of existing resources, to accommodate alternative instruction for the student. Alternative instruction may be provided by the school or through approved independent study. Any alternative instruction shall be approved in advance by the Principal in consultation with the classroom teacher and shall meet the standards and objectives of the part of the curriculum that is being replaced.

It is the policy of MSAD No. 9 that each school day should begin with appropriate activities that should include, but not be limited to, a salute to the Flag of the United States.

Note: MSAD No. 9 recognizes that individual students may not participate in a flag salute, and it is the District's policy to recognize the individual rights of these students.

Goal: To maximize air quality and to limit exposure to animals which may cause allergic reactions to individuals with inhalant and/or contact allergies or asthma.

Criteria: All animals either visiting, or resident (those that are to be kept in a classroom) must be approved by the building principal.

Special attention must be applied by the teacher to assure that there are no known students who are allergic to the particular visiting animal(s).

1. Children may not hold or handle animals, but they may touch them if closely supervised by the teacher or animal’s owner.

3. Animals brought inside the school must be contained and/or restrained. All other animals will be observed outside.

File: JEA

Under state law, full_time school attendance is required of all children from their 7th to their 17th birthday except:

3. Been approved by the principal for a suitable program of work and study or training; and

5. Agreed in writing with that person's parent and the school board or its designee to meet annually until that person's 17th birthday to review that person's educational needs. When the request to be excused from school has been denied pursuant to this paragraph, the student's parent may appeal to the Commissioner;

C. A person whose absence is excused under section 5051. The parent of an habitual truant who has been denied a waiver of this paragraph may appeal to the Commissioner in accordance with section 5051, subsection 2, paragraph E (habitual truancy); or

D. A person who has matriculated and is attending an accredited, post_secondary, degree_granting institution as a full_time student. An exception to the attendance in public school under this paragraph must be approved by the Commissioner.

1. A person shall be excused from attending a public day school if the person obtains equivalent instruction in:

b) A private school recognized by the department as providing equivalent instruction;

d) Any other manner arranged for by the school board and approved by the Commissioner.

2. A student shall be credited with attendance at a private school only if a certificate showing the name, residence and attendance of the person at the school, signed by the person or persons in charge of the school, has been filed with the school officials of the administrative unit in which the student resides.

3. A person who wishes to obtain approval of equivalent instruction under rules established by the Commissioner for equivalent instruction through home instruction (home schooling) shall simultaneously submit a completed application for approval to the local board and to the Commissioner. The local board may review the application and submit comments on the application to the Commissioner within 30 days of receipt of the application. Within 60 days of receipt of the application, the Commissioner, using state criteria established by rule, shall decide whether to approve the equivalent instruction application. If the Commissioner denies the application, the applicant may, within 30 days of receiving the denial, amend and resubmit the application directly to the Commissioner. The Commissioner shall make a decision within 30 days of receiving the amended application. If an application is approved, the Commissioner shall send notice of the approval to the local board.

Notice provided to the local boards under this section of applications for approval of equivalent instruction through home instruction and of the Commissioner's decision on those applications is only for informational purposes. Local boards are not required to play any role in the application, review and approval or oversight of home instruction programs.

B. A person may be excused from attendance at a public day school pursuant to section 5104_A or section 8605 (other public or private alternative programs).

C. A student who is educated under the provisions of paragraph A in any manner, other than in a private school approved under chapter 117, subchapter 1, shall be counted as 1/2 a student for the purpose of computing state aid under chapter 606.

B. An appointment with a health professional that must be made during the regular school day;

C. Observance of a recognized religious holiday when the observance is required during the regular school day;

E. A planned absence for a personal or educational purpose which has been approved.

Compulsory education is essential to the preservation of the rights and liberties of the people and the continued prosperity of our society and our nation. Maintaining regular student attendance is necessary to achieve the goal of an educated citizenry. Public schools should ensure the rights of access for all school_age persons to an appropriate educational opportunity and, when necessary, should develop alternatives to regular school curricula for those children and youth at risk of becoming dropouts and those who may have left school.

Since parents are responsible for the attendance of students who are under 17 years of age, the board shall do everything within its power to ensure that parents comply with the compulsory attendance law.

Secondary school pupils of 20 years of age will not be admitted to the school system prior to board approval. Older people may secure a certificate of equivalency from the Maine Department of Education or a diploma through the Adult Education Program.

This school system shall admit as students those of legal school age whose parents or guardians legally reside within the unit. Adequate proof of residence shall be required. The Board reserves the right to verify residency through appropriate means for any enrolled student or any family applying for enrollment.

"Residence" shall be considered the place where important family activity takes place -- the place where the family eats, sleeps, relaxes, and plays. It is a place which can be called a "home."

Guardianship or parental authority shall be substantiated by a copy of a court order, probated will, except that the superintendent may waive this requirement if he/she determines that it is in the best interest of the child and:

A. It is undesirable and impractical for that student to reside with the student's parent, or that other extenuating circumstances exist which justify residence in the unit; and

B. That person is residing in the school administrative unit for other than education purposes.

Resident students entering school for the first time shall be admitted upon presentation of an original birth certificate to the principal, along with a record of required inoculations and pertinent health records. Photocopies shall be made and retained in the student's file.

New resident students who are transferring into the school system shall be admitted and placed on the basis of age, health, and any academic records received from the previous school. However, original documentation may be required if deemed necessary to appropriately determine a student's eligibility for enrollment and assignment.

Legal Ref.: Maine Commissioner of Education Information Letter No. 026, December 22, 1992.

The School Board recognizes its obligation to provide a free public education to homeless children and youth. In co-operation with the school unit of origin, the local school system will provide homeless students with suitable programs which assure equal access to education.

The public school program in MSAD No. 9 shall admit only those students who fall within the recognized age range and who meet statutory eligibility standards. Any citizen beyond the legal school age who wishes to participate in the regular school program shall be subject to the following guidelines:

A. He or she shall complete an application which shall include a list of references and submit the application to the Superintendent of Schools;

B. The Superintendent shall determine the cost of tuition through correspondence with the appropriate State agency;

C. The Superintendent shall recommend to the Board of Directors either admittance or non-admittance with appropriate regulations and the tuition fee; and,

It is the general policy of MSAD No. 9 not to admit non-resident tuition students. Effective July 1, 1989 and thereafter, new non-resident tuition students shall be admitted only by advance written approval of the Superintendent, copy to the Board of Directors.

Persons who are employed by MSAD No. 9 for more than fifty percent (50%) of the work year are eligible to apply to the Superintendent to have their children admitted to MSAD No. 9 on a tuition-free basis.

All requests for admission of non-resident students shall be forwarded to the Superintendent of Schools before a non-resident student is admitted to any MSAD No. 9 school. The Superintendent's office shall make all final determinations concerning such requests.

Students who are seniors at Mt. Blue High School, shall be allowed to complete the school year on a tuition-free basis if their family moves out of MSAD No. 9 after the student’s senior year and if the student remains in good academic and behavioral standing.

Once each school semester, the Board of Directors shall be informed of all tuition students attending MSAD No. 9

The intent of this policy is to define the guidelines that must be met by sponsoring groups and/or host families when a foreign exchange student is enrolling in Mt. Blue High School.

Mt. Blue High School recognizes the advantages available for the school and for visiting exchange students; therefore, the school supports continuation of hosting foreign exchange students within the framework of these guidelines:

A. Mt. Blue High School will accept a maximum of seven (7) year long, and two (2) on semester program, foreign exchange students each school year.

B. Sponsoring organizations must be USIA designated and approved for listing by the Council on Standards for International Educational Travel (CSIET).

C. Sponsoring agencies and/or host families must contact Mt. Blue High School for the pre-planning of the foreign exchange student's registration no later than August 1st of the year in which the student will be enrolled.

D. The sponsoring agency must furnish Mt. Blue High School with complete school record, including academic and health record information, of foreign exchange students at the time the student registers for classes.

E. Exchange students will be granted a Certificate of Completion for their course of study if they have met the MBHS attendance requirements and successfully complete all course work. Students may apply for a diploma based on proof of successful completion in their home school of a course of study equivalent to that required of MSAD No. 9 students.

MSAD No. 9 recognizes the diversity and cultural awareness that foreign exchange students bring to the academic and social life of our schools and communities. Therefore, we support and encourage the placement of these students by responsible organizations and/or individuals. Foreign exchange students will be welcome in MSAD No. 9 schools under the following guidelines.

J-1 exchange students are those who have obtained their non-immigrant J-1 visa and admission to the US based on a certificate of eligibility (Form IAP-66) which may only be issued by a responsible officer from a USIA designated program. This officer is obligated to ensure compliance with USIA regulations by both the sponsoring organization and its program participants. Consequently, the exchange visitor is the responsibility of the program sponsor - not the host family, school or other party where the student is placed.

1. MSAD No. 9 will accept students from those programs which are USIA designated and approved for listing by the Council on Standards for International Educational Travel (CSIET). In addition, the program must have a local representative living or working within a 30 mile radius of Farmington. Programs must apply in writing for participation in MSAD No. 9 schools and their local representative must meet with the principal or a designated representative. The principal or designated representative will evaluate those programs applying for acceptance.

2. Mt. Blue High School (MBHS) will accept up to Nine (9) students during any one semester. Priority will be given to those students placed through in-house programs, especially those associated with the foreign language curriculum.

3. Organizations must obtain prior approval of acceptance in writing from the principal or his/her designee before placing a student with a family. This written approval must be obtained by August 1st for those students entering the Fall semester or December 1st for those entering the Spring semester.

4. MSAD No. 9 will accept students between the ages of 15 years and 18 and 1/2 years old.

5. Exchange students will be granted a Certificate of Completion for their course of study if they have met the MBHS attendance requirements and successfully complete all course work. Students may apply for a diploma based on proof of successful completion in their home school of a course of study equivalent to that required of MSAD No. 9 students.

6. MBHS will grant academic credit for work completed based on the same criteria used for US students.

7. MSAD No. 9 will waive tuition fees for those exchange students living within the District.

8. Exchange students must comply with the MBHS attendance policy. Absences from classes in order to give presentations in other MSAD No. 9 classes, schools or communities will be excused.

9. Exchange students will be enrolled in classes on a space available basis after local MSAD No. 9 students have been enrolled. MBHS will require all exchange students to take one (1) credit of English and one (1) additional credit of either US History or English during each semester they are enrolled. In addition, students must meet their own program requirements. Students will be allowed to participate in Senior activities and graduation if they wish.

a. English Language Proficiency. Programs must provide proof of adequate English language proficiency to study in a US high school. The criteria for such proficiency will be satisfactory scores on a standard ESL test (i.e. SLEP) and/or successful participation in a personal interview conducted in English. If a student is found to be deficient in English the program must provide a tutor until adequate proficiency is attained.

b. Personal Qualifications. Programs must evaluate students through a personal interview and/or submit a recommendation from the student's principal or designee.

c. Previous Academic Record. Programs must submit proof of satisfactory completion of the course of study followed in the student's home school.

2. Programs must screen prospective host families on the basis of a personal interview in their home. Every effort should be made to match families and students on the basis of criteria appropriate to the program.

3. Programs must provide pre-departure orientation for their students in the home country and language. In addition, the local representative must hold an orientation meeting with the student and his/her family within one (1) week of the student's arrival. Local representatives must provide orientation for the host family prior to the arrival of the student.

4. For each student enrolled, the program must provide the following information:

e. host family information including name, address, telephone, name of any host students currently enrolled in host school.

F-1 exchange students are those who have obtained their non-immigrant F-1 visa and admission to the US based on a certificate of eligibility (Form I-20A-B) which may only be issued by a Designated School Official from a US Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) approved school. This official is obliged to ensure that the school complies with the INS regulations. Consequently, the school is responsible to the INS for the foreign exchange student. The F-1 foreign student also has obligations under US immigration regulations. An F-1 student must:

a) have sufficient financial resources for the anticipated stay in the United States;

b) have a residence abroad to return to upon completion of the program in the United States; and,

Anyone enrolling a student under an F-1 visa must submit proof of personal qualifications of the student based on the recommendation of the student's home school principal or designee.

Proof of English language proficiency sufficient for successful study in a US high school. Criteria for evaluation will be satisfactory score on a standard ESL test and/or recommendation of the student's English teacher. If the student is found deficient in English the US Guardian must provide a tutor until adequate proficiency is attained.

a. MSAD No. 9 agrees to provide F-1 students a standard course of study appropriate to the student's grade level. All course requirements and enrollment limitations pertaining to J-1 students are applicable to F-1 students as well.

b. Anyone enrolling a student on an F-1 visa must show proof that they have met all immigration requirements for the placement.

a. A student applying for admission under an F-1 visa will be considered as one of the nine (9) exchange students accepted in any one semester.

b. Any individual seeking to enroll a student under an F-1 visa must complete all immigration forms and requirements for this student. In addition, they must apply in writing for permission to enroll the student. The principal or his/her designee will evaluate each request.

c. All regulations regarding Certificate of Completion, credit, tuition waiver, attendance and student privileges which apply to those students on a J-1 visa are applicable to those on an F-1 visa as well.

e. information on US Guardian including name, address, telephone, relationship to foreign student, and,

e. information on host family (if different from guardian) including name, address, telephone, name of any host students currently enrolled in host school.

It is illegal for a US high school to enroll any non-immigrant visitor to the US who holds a B-Visa (Tourist Status Visa). Any school that enrolls such a visitor may be subject to state and/or federal penalties.

The Board believes that a high school diploma signifies the minimum preparation for life; therefore, the Board strongly urges every teacher, guidance counselor, principal, parent, and citizen to exert influence to keep all students in school through high school.

In order to reduce the school dropout rate, the Superintendent shall establish a District-wide Student Assistance Team (S.A.T.) to develop strategies for identifying students at risk of dropping out, suggesting programs to meet their needs, developing programs to assist dropouts in their efforts to continue their education, and mobilizing support for such programs in the community at-large. The District-wide S.A.T. will be formed and follow reporting procedures according to Maine statute.

The Board recognizes the importance of success as a motivator and as a factor in a student's commitment to education. For those students who have been identified as at risk of dropping out, every reasonable effort will be made to provide alternative instructional arrangements that take into account both the student's need for success and the District's commitment to adequate minimum standards of achievement.

In the event that students do withdraw from school, school administrators shall arrange for regular contacts to be made with them, for the purpose of informing them of the process for re-admission, making them aware of alternatives in the community for continuing their education, and stating the District's willingness to assist them in their educational efforts.

File: JICH

MSAD No. 9 CHEMICAL HEALTH POLICY

The Board of Directors of Maine School Administrative District No. 9 recognizes that chemical abuse and/or emotional concerns may cause personal and professional problems. These problems may directly or indirectly affect the individual's performance either as a student or as a district employee.

It is the intent of the Board of Directors of MSAD No. 9 to assist the individual to get the help necessary to return or continue in their present capacity.

It is not the Board of Directors' nor the School Administrators' task to diagnose chemical abuse and/or emotional problems, but rather to make referral to such agencies or individuals who can make the diagnosis and recommend appropriate follow-up.

I. Employee Chemical and Emotional Health Policy

A. The Board of Directors recognizes that alcoholism/drug dependency and emotional/psychological problems are treatable and has a program to address these problems for the benefit of its employees.

B. The Board of Directors has a concern and a responsibility when an employee's alcoholism/drug dependency or emotional/psychological problems adversely impacts upon job performance.

C. Any person who suspects that they may have alcoholism/ drug dependency or emotional/psychological problems, even in the earliest stages, are encouraged to voluntarily seek diagnosis and follow through with treatment that may be prescribed by qualified professionals, in order to arrest the disorder as soon as possible.

D. Any person having alcoholism/drug dependency or emotional/psychological problems will receive the same consideration and offer of treatment that is presently extended under existing policy to all those who have any other adverse (health) conditions.

E. Benefits and insurance coverage shall be provided to employees for alcoholism/drug dependency or emotional/psychological disorders, as specified in current insurance policies.

F. This statement of policy specifically relates to the disease of chemical dependency (alcohol/drug) itself. The policy is designed solely to achieve restoration of

full health to individuals whose job performance has been affected by chemical dependency.

G. It will be the responsibility of all MSAD No. 9 employees to implement the policy and to follow the procedures which have been designed to assure that no person with alcoholism/drug dependency or emotional/psychological problems will have either job security or promotional opportunities jeopardized by a request for diagnosis and/or treatment.

H. Neither supervisors nor other representatives have qualifications to diagnose chemical dependency or emotional problems. Therefore, referral will be based on job performance.

I. The records of individuals with chemical dependency or emotional disorders will be strictly confidential.

J. Any person getting assistance will be expected to meet existing job performance standards and established work rules.

K. All new staff will undergo "Here's Looking At You 2000" training or similar training during their first three years of employment. Other untrained staff are also strongly encouraged to receive the training.

A. The Board of Directors of MSAD No. 9 recognizes that the use of mind-altering chemicals is a significant health problem for many students, resulting in negative effects on behavior, learning, and the total development of each individual. Student's use and abuse of alcohol and other drugs also affect the development of skills related to participation in extracurricular activities. Familial chemical dependency problems, likewise affect the learning of children and place them at high risk of developing chemical health problems.

B. Student health problems are primarily the responsibility of the parent or guardian. However, the school and community share in that responsibility because chemical health problems often affect learning and development.

C. It is the affected student's right to learn and the community's responsibility to provide programs and services that include guidance, counseling, support groups, education, and positive adult models that will insure a safe environment in which alcohol and other drug dependency cycle may be broken.

D. The Board of Directors support education and awareness activities for school personnel, students, and parents or guardians. These educational programs cover chemical use and abuse problems, including the symptomology of chemical dependency and related problems affecting

E. The Board of Directors believes that a chemical health policy should include: (1) firm standards and prohibitions about the use and distribution of chemicals and; (2) assurances to the students that the school will help them confront and overcome their chemical use and abuse problems.

F. Consequently the Board of Directors is committed to offering a comprehensive chemical health program that addresses both primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention.

1. Primary prevention: includes, yet is not limited to, those activities that focus on chemical health education, self-esteem, chemical-free alternatives, decision-making, and coping skills.

2. Secondary prevention: addresses early interven-tion, referral, follow-up, and support services for students and families who may have chemical dependency or emotional problems.

3. Tertiary prevention: addresses students who are taking part in out-patient treatment or are returning for an in-patient experience. A program will be developed and implemented to meet the individual needs of each student working on recovery from emotional or dependency problems.

It is the policy of MSAD No. 9 that each student shall be placed at an academic level which challenges the student and in which the student can achieve success with the appropriate effort.

It is the responsibility of the building principal to initiate a procedure which will assure that each student is appropriately placed. It is expected that the principal will involve both guidance and teaching personnel in the procedure to insure proper placement.

Principals will make a reasonable effort to inform the parents of the course selections of their children, and parent involvement will be encouraged in planning each child's academic program.

Students enrolled in MSAD No. 9 must exhibit regular school attendance patterns. Absence from school means absence from instruction and such absence is to be avoided whenever possible.

Each principal shall develop, maintain, and revise student attendance procedures for his/her building that encourage the above student goal.

Students who fail to maintain a satisfactory level of attendance shall be reported by the appropriate principal to the Assistant Superintendent of Schools.

The Assistant Superintendent shall fully review such reports and initiate appropriate corrective action.

B. has attained the equivalent of 10 full days of nonexcused absences or seven consecutive school days of nonexcused absences during a school year.

The Board shall appoint one or more attendance coordinators in accordance with state law. The following statutory provisions shall be followed when a student is habitually truant.

A. If the principal and the attendance coordinator determine that a student is habitually truant, the principal shall inform the Superintendent. The Superintendent shall first try to correct the problem informally by:

1. Asking the student’s parents to attend a series of meetings with their child’s teacher or other school personnel by the Superintendent. The purpose of the meetings is to describe the education program to the parents and explain the value of their child attending an educational program, including but not limited to school, adult education, a high school equivalency degree program and other alternative education programs. The Superintendent shall arrange meeting time convenient to the parents.

B. If the principal and attendance coordinator are unable to correct the problem, the Superintendent shall refer the matter to the Board along with the attendance coordinator’s report, the principal’s report and any other useful information.

C. The Board shall call a hearing and shall notify the student’s parents of the date and time of the hearing; the purpose; the parents’ right to inspect the student’s attendance records and the attendance reports; and the necessity of the parents’ and student’s attendance at the meeting.

D. If the Board determines that the student is habitually truant, it shall either instruct the student to attend school as required by the compulsory attendance law and advise the parents of their responsibility under the law to assure the student’s attendance or waive the requirements of 20-A MRSA, section 5001-A if the student is 15 years of age or older. A parent may appeal the Board’s decision to the Commissioner of Education.

E. When a student is determined to be habitually truant and in violation of the compulsory attendance law and the Superintendent has made a good faith attempt to meet the requirements of paragraph A.1. above, the Superintendent may notify the local law enforcement department of the decision. After this notification, a local law enforcement officer who sees a truant may offer to transport the truant to the appropriate school as provided in the truancy law.

Any and all reports and documentary records generated under this policy shall be confidential and shall be maintained as required under 20-A M.R.S.A. sea. 6001 as amended.

In all instances when a staff member of the Maine school Administrative District No. 9 has reason to suspect that child abuse and/or neglect has occurred that staff member shall make the report to the Maine Department of Human Services as required by statute and shall also make a report to the Principal of the school building in which the child is enrolled.

The principal shall be the administrator responsible for supervising all subsequent aspects of the process. In appropriate situations the Principal may delegate responsibilities to the Special Services Director.

Parental notification shall be made as soon as it is appropriate unless after consultation with an intake worker from the Department of Hunan Services (OHS) it is determined that there is a threat of harm to the child in which case there shall be no notification to the parents.

A. Investigation of reported, suspected cases of child abuse and/or neglect is the responsibility of the DHS. School personnel will cooperate with the DHS's investigation by providing pertinent inform-ation and personnel observations which are necessary for an appropriate assessment of the child's welfare.

B. The Principal or the Principal's designee will request notification by DHS representatives of any student referred by MSAD No. 9 staff members regarding the following:

1. When an investigation is being conducted where MSAD No. 9 staff members are not the referring agents and it is in the interest of the child that the school department become involved;

A. The DHS representative nay interview a child on school property and/or during school hours without prior notification to the parent or legal guardian when:

1. The DHS has reason to believe that prior notice would increase the threat of serious ham to the child or another person; or,

2. The child has initiated direct or indirect (not involving MSAD No. 9) contact with the DHS.

B. The Principal or the principal's designee will authorize such interviews upon request of the DHS representative with verification of identity of the DHS interviewer as a duly authorized representative of the DHS which verification includes the name or names of the student to be interviewed.

C. The only function of MSAD No. 9 is to provide space for the interview to take place. The Principal shall neither encourage nor discourage the child from participating in the process. The Principal or the Principal's designee may be present during any interview conducted on school property. If the Principal or the Principal's designee elects not to be present during the entire interview that person shall be present at least at the beginning and at the end of the interview to clarify reasons for the interview and to understand and describe to the student the process and that person's immediate and on-going responsibilities to the student.

A. If MSAD No. 9 experiences difficulties in a particular case the Principal shall coordinate with the Director of Special Services of the District so the Director can make contact with the Supervisor of the DHS social worker.

B. If DHS experiences difficulties in a particular case, the DHS supervisor or Regional Program Manager shall contact the Superintendent of Schools of MSAD No. 9.

C. MSAD No. 9 personnel must call DHS to report suspected abuse or neglect. Immediately thereafter the reporting person shall complete paperwork informing the Principal or the Principal's designee of the report giving the name of the DHS person to whom the initial report was made.

D. The Principal shall provide a copy of all paperwork to the Director of Special Services who shall maintain records of all reports and investigations generated under this policy.

A student may be excused permanently from physical education upon the written recommendation of the student's physician. All written recommendations must be reviewed by the principal and the physical education teacher.

A written excuse by a physician will be the customary method of excusing students from physical education classes. Duration of the excuse should be indicated. Students will attend physical education classes during this designated time but may be excused from physical participation.

There will be occasions when students will be excused from strenuous activities on a temporary basis. A student's parent may request the student be excused from physical education for a period of time not to exceed five (5) school days. The request must be in writing and state the reason. A parent conference with the teacher and the principal may be required after the third such request.

Students who are unable to participate in physical education activities may be given alternative assignments to enable them to secure credit for physical education.

STUDENT ABSENCES AND EXCUSES - REGULATION

Purpose:

Compulsory education is essential to the preservation of the rights and liberties of the people and continued prosperity of our society and our nation. Maintaining regular student attendance is necessary to achieve the goal of an educated citizenry. (MSRA 20A, section 5001A)

Mt. Blue High School

The MSAD No. 9 Board of Directors has approved a policy establishing attendance requirements at Mt. Blue High School.

ABSENCES

Any student who accumulates 6 (alternate course days) or 8 (courses that meet daily) or more UNEXCUSED absences in a class, in one (1) semester will not receive credit for that class. Students may receive a numerical grade if they complete the course.

1. The following do not count as an absence toward the six (6) or eight (8) unexcused absences.

a.a. Excused absences are for personal illness, an appointment with a health professional that must be made during the regular school day, observance of a recognized religious holiday when the observance is required during the regular school day, family emergency, or a planned absence for a personal or education purpose which has been approved.

Note: Excused absences must be documented by a parent/guardian phone call the day of the absence (preferably), a note from a parent/guardian or doctors office presented to the office within 2 days of the student=s return to school.

2. Unexcused absences are being absent from school for reasons other than mentioned previously (i.e. skipping school). Time will be made up after school for unexcused absences.

Note: All students must report to the office before the start of the school day after an absence to get an excused absence or unexcused absence slip to present to teacher each period.

TARDIES

1. Students will be given two warnings for being tardy to class or school. On the third and every one thereafter, a detention will be assigned.

2. Students are considered absent if they miss more than 15 minutes of the class without appropriate documentation.

MAKE UP WORK

1. Students who have an unexcused absence WILL NOT be allowed to make up any work or exam assigned on the day in question.

2. Students who have excused absences will be given the same number of days to make up work as were missed.

APPEALS PROCESS

Students may request to meet with the Appeals Committee to discuss extenuating circumstances by submitting a letter to the Appeals Committee through the assistant principal who chairs the committee.

NOTIFICATION PROCEDURE

Parents and students will be notified of attendance problems at the following intervals:

1. 3 or 4 unexcused absences - letter sent

2. 6 or 8 unexcused absences - notification of loss of credit

Early Dismissals

Early dismissals will be allowed for a professional appointment provided evidence (such as an appointment card) is presented prior to leaving. In case of illness, parents or an approved adult must be notified by office personnel before students will be allowed to leave.

Tardy

Tardiness is defined as an unexcused arrival of a student later than the scheduled time that class begins. When a student is late for school, he/she is to report directly to the main office to sign in.

Green Slips

Parents may request permission for excused absences in advance by submitting the request in writing to the high school office. Any request must be approved by the administration. Students may obtain green slips in the main office and submit completed forms two weeks in advance.

Truancy

Any student is determined to be a habitual truant if he or she is absent from school, for other than excusable absences, the equivalent of ten full days or for one-half of a day for seven (7) consecutive school days within any six (6) month period. (MESA Title 20-A, Sec. 5050)

EXCHANGE TRIPS

MSAD No. 9 is especially proud of the various opportunities it affords students to participate in educational exchanges with partner schools in foreign countries. The Foreign Language Department currently sponsors three (3) group exchanges for qualified students enrolled in French, German and Spanish courses. In addition, Mt. Blue High School has recently established an exchange with the Soviet Union. It is undeniable that students experience tremendous personal and academic growth resulting from participation in such exchanges. However, students who are selected for such exchanges must be fully aware of their responsibility for making up school work missed as a result of absences from regular classes. Students involved in the group exchange program will be expected to sign a contract.

Field Trips

For any trip that is class period blocks or longer, students must complete and turn in a green slip two weeks in advance in order to attend. If a student is failing any course that would be missed by attending the field trip, he/she will not be allowed the field trip and will be assigned a study hall in place of the class on the field trip.

Early Release for Athletics/Co-Curricular

A student leaving school early for any event must demonstratre that he/she is passing classes affected by the dismissal in order to go. Coaches or advisors will make a form available.

Legal Reference: Title 20 A MESA Sec. 5001-A

Mt. Blue Middle School

Students are expected to attend classes regularly and to be on time in order to benefit from the instructional program and develop habits of punctuality, self-discipline and responsibility.

Absences as described in this policy are to used for the following reasons:

A. Personal illness;

B. Professional appointments that cannot be made outside of the school day;

C. Serious personal or family problems; and/or,

D. Recognized religious holidays.

Parents or guardians should make every effort to call and provide a valid excuse when their child is absent. A written excuse must also be provided. An Absence will be considered unexcused until a valid excuse is received, and a detention could be issued for not bringing a note. Students are to report directly to the office following an absence.

PLANNED ABSENCES - Planned absences of five (5) days or less for other reasons will be excused with the approval of the principal. Planned absences for more than five (5) days must be approved by the Superintendent. Absences that are approved by the parent but not by the school will be classified as unexcused. All other absences will be excused at the discretion of the principal or his assistant.

Students seeking permission for planned absence are to fill out the Planned Absence Form, have parents and teachers sign the form, and return it to the office at least three (3) days in advance for approval by the principal.

UNEXCUSED ABSENCES - When a student has an unexcused absence or suspension s/he may appeal to the principal in writing by the end of the second day after returning to school to be allowed to make up the work missed. The principal will review the circumstances and will decide whether the student shall have the option of making up the work. Tests, quizzes and assignments will be made up at the convenience of the teacher and at an assigned time. Failure to make up the work at the times assigned shall result in a "0" grade for the work. For those teachers who give credit for class participation it is recommended that two (2) points per day missed due to unexcused absence be reduced from that portion of the final grade assigned for class participation.

ARRIVAL - Prior to 7:35 a.m. students should report to designated areas. Walking students are requested not to arrive at school until 7:45 a.m., at which time they are requested to go directly to their homerooms.

TARDY - Tardiness is defined as an unexcused appearance of a student beyond the scheduled time that school or class begins.

When a student is late for school he or she is to report directly to the school and sign in. Three (3) incidents of tardiness to school without acceptable excuses will result in disciplinary action.

Tardiness to class and homeroom will be handled in a similar manner by the classroom teacher.

Students and parents are requested to make every effort to schedule appointments outside of school hours.

EARLY DISMISSAL - Once a student is on the school grounds he or she cannot leave without permission from the principal or the assistant principal. Failure to follow this procedure will result in an unexcused absence and possible disciplinary action.

To be excused for appointments, the student should bring a note from the parents to the office before 7:55 a.m.. The student will be given an early dismissal slip which should be submitted to the teacher from whose class he or she will be leaving.

If a student is ill, he or she should report to the principal or assistant principal.

A student who misses any part of the school day due to illness will not be allowed to participate in any extra-curricular activity that day except on an appeal granted by the principal. Any student who is tardy may not participate on that day unless the tardiness is excused by the principal. The above participation applies to all regularly scheduled activities, curricular and extra-curricular.

WITHDRAWAL FROM SCHOOL - Students who are moving and plan to transfer to another school should meet with the principal in order to obtain an outline of the proper withdrawal/transfer procedures.

Students are expected to attend school regularly and to be on time in order to benefit from the instructional program and to develop habits of punctuality, self-discipline and responsibility.

Planned absences for other reasons can be excused with approval of the principal. In general, the school discourages extended absences for vacation trips and the like because of the possible negative effect on the child=s academic program. Requests for approval of a planned absence for vacation trips, etc., must be made in writing five days before the absence. Absences that are approved by the parent but not the school will be classified as unexcused. All other absences will be excused at the discretion of the principal.

A review of the student=s attendance will take place if a student reaches seven (7) absences in a semester. If a student=s absences become excessive, a conference with the parent will be called.

Unexcused Absence:

An absence will be considered unexcused until a valid excuse is received. In the case of an unexcused absence the parents will be notified of each offense. The third unexcused absence may require a parental conference with the principal and/or the superintendent. A fourth may require a conference with the Board of Directors, and a fifth unexcused absence may result in a charge of habitual truancy against the parent and/or the child.

Tardiness:

Tardiness is defined as being late for school. It is the responsibility of the parents to see that a child is on time each day. Repeated tardiness may result in a meeting with the Superintendent and/or an appearance before the Board of Directors. The parents should send a note to school for each instance of tardiness.

Early Personal Dismissal:

All dismissals must be cleared through the office before a student leaves school.

Absence/Tardiness Notes:

These notes serve two purposes. First, they fulfill the requirements of this policy concerning valid/excused absences. Second, they are a double check for you and the school that your child is where he/she is supposed to be when he/she is supposed to be there.

Absence notes must include the specific reason a child missed school, the dates of absence, and the parent=s signature. A tardiness note should contain similar information.

In addition to the Affirmative Action/Title IX/Section 504 Program, the Board of Directors affirms the following student rights: No person on the basis of race, sex, color, national origin, marital status, age, disability, or religion is excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or subjected to discrimination under any educational program or activity.

All course offerings are open to all students meeting established prerequisites.

Prior to selection of new textbooks and materials, a study is made to ensure that there is minimal bias and stereotyping.

1. Testing materials have been examined and those found to be discriminatory are being replaced as rapidly as possible.

3. Guidance counselors, whenever responding to an employer's requests for students to fill jobs, will to the greatest extent possible seek to provide candidates without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, marital status, age, disability, or religion.

All physical education classes are co-educational, except when contact sports are being played.

1. Comparable sports are offered to meet the interest and ability of members of each sex.

3. In activities such as basketball, the District operates separate teams for boys and girls.

4. Intramural athletic programs provide equal opportunity for members of each sex.

The District provides comparable separate facilities for members of each sex.

While the law requires the School District to furnish transportation, it does not relieve parents of students from the responsibility of supervision until such time as the child boards the bus in the morning and after the child leaves the bus at the end of school.

Once a child board the bus - and only at that time - does he/she become the responsibility of the School District. Such responsibility shall end when the child is delivered to the regular bus stop at the close of the school day.

In view of the fact that a bus is an extension of the classroom, the Board shall require children to conduct themselves on the bus in a manner consistent with established standards for classroom behavior.

Children who become a serious disciplinary problem on the school bus may have their riding privileges suspended by the Director of Transportation. In such cases, the parents of the children involved become responsible for seeing that their children get to and from school safely.

Because the Board recognizes creative student expression as an educational benefit of the school experience, it encourages freedom of comment, both oral and written, in a school setting with a degree of order in which proper learning can take place.

Some student publications, such as annual yearbooks and school newspapers, may be developed as part of the curriculum to benefit primarily those who compile, edit, and publish them. Faculty advisors will be assigned to guide students engaged in these activities. Student editors have initial responsibility in determining content; however, the faculty advisor may override the student editor's decision, but shall give substantial and due regard for the judgment of the student editors and for the educational value of the exercise of that judgment. Censorship shall be limited to those aspects of publications that conflict with the basic educational mission of the school, that may be inappropriate for young audiences, or that may be reasonably judged by the public to bear the imprimatur of the school.

Students may be required to submit publications for approval prior to distribution. When approval is required, school administrators must make available to students the standards which will be used in determining the grant or denial of permission.

The Superintendent is authorized to develop review and appeal procedures for students who feel that their material was improperly or unfairly censored and to make those procedures known to students, parents, and faculty.

Distribution of any nonschool-sponsored materials or literature on school property shall receive prior approval of the principal, who shall review and judge the material using the same standards that pertain to other student publications.

File: ~~JICFA~~

ACAD

STUDENT HAZING

Maine statute defines injurious hazing as "any action or situation, including harassing behavior, that recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health of any school personnel or a student enrolled in a public school."

It is the policy of the board that injurious hazing activities of any type, either on or off school property, by any student, staff member, group or organization affiliated with this school unit, are inconsistent with the educational process and shall be prohibited at all times.

No administrator, faculty member, or other employee of the school unit shall encourage, permit, condone, or tolerate injurious hazing activities. No student, including leaders of students organizations, shall plan, encourage, or engage in injurious hazing activities.

Persons not associated with this school unit who fail to abide by this policy may be subject to ejection from school property and/or other measures as may be available under the law.

Administrators, faculty members, students, and all other employees who fail to abide by this policy may be subject to disciplinary action which may include suspension, expulsion, or other appropriate measures.

In the case of an organization affiliated with this school unit which authorizes hazing, penalties may include rescission of permission for that organization to operate on school property or to receive any other benefit of affiliation with the school unit.

These penalties shall be in addition to any civil or criminal penalties to which the violator or organization may be subject.

The superintendent shall assume responsibility for administering this policy. In the event that an individual or organization disagrees with an action__or lack of action__on the part of the superintendent as he/she carries out the provisions of this policy, that individual or organization may appeal to the full Board of Directors. The ruling of the Board of Directors, with respect to the provisions of this policy, shall be final.

A copy of this policy shall be included in all school, parent, and faculty handbooks or otherwise distributed to all school employees and students.

MSAD No. 9 in accordance with Maine State Law will establish the following policy for the use and/or possession of tobacco in buildings or on school property.

B. This policy is designed to deal with use and possession within the normal school environment.

II. Any student found in possession or using tobacco products will be subject to the following procedures: