MSAD 9 POLICY MANUAL

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File: AC

 

NONDISCRIMINATION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

 

It is the policy of Maine School Administrative District No. 9 to insure equal employment and educational opportunities and affirmative action regardless of race, sex, color, national origin, marital or parental status, age, handicap, or religion in accordance with all federal and state rules and regulations relative to discrimination.

Inquiries can be made to Affirmative Action/Title IX/Section 504 Coordinator, Maine School Administrative District No. 9, 11 School Lane, New Sharon, ME 04955 telephone: 778-9517; or to the Director, Office of Civil Rights, Region 1, John McCormack POCH, Room 222, Boston, MA, 02109. Grievance procedures are available which provide for prompt and equitable resolution of complaints alleging violations of Affirmative Action/Title IX/Section 504 guidelines and may be obtained from the Coordinator.

Adopted: January 25, 1994

Reviewed: 9/17/96

Reviewed: 1/10/2000

Revised: February 29, 2000


File: ACA

 

NON_DISCRIMINATORY LANGUAGE

The school board directs that all staff members be especially alert to and avoid the use of sexist or other discriminatory language in all communications, both oral and written.

Cross Reference: AC _ NONDISCRIMINATION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

Adopted: January 25, 1994


File: ACAA

 

STUDENT/EMPLOYEE/HARASSMENT POLICY

 

MSAD No. 9 recognizes the right of each student/employee to perform in an atmosphere which is free of intimidation, ridicule, hostility and offensiveness. In order to insure such an atmosphere, MSAD No. 9 students/employees should not engage in any form of harassment. Harassment is abuse based upon race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin or handicap. Acts of this nature are not only a violation of this policy but also constitutes illegal discrimination under State and Federal laws.

Examples of prohibited harassment are:

1. Unwelcome sexual advances, gestures, comments or contact,

2. Threats which imply physical abuse or are inappropriate to an educational setting,

3. Offensive jokes,

4. Ridicule, slurs, derogatory action or remarks, and

5. Basing decisions on practice of submission to harassment.

6. Gang and gang-like behavior

Students/employees should also be advised of the importance of informing the harasser that his/her behavior is unwelcome, offensive, in poor taste, or highly inappropriate. However, if a student/employee feels uncomfortable with confronting the harasser, the student/employee is encouraged to inform the Affirmative Action Coordinator at the earliest opportunity. Students/employees who believe that they are victims of harassment, should report such occurrences to the Affirmative Action Coordinator. The Affirmative Action Coordinator shall advise the person who has allegedly been harassed of the various options available to the person: Title IX civil action; Human Rights Commission complaint; formal request for discipline by the MSAD No. 9 Superintendent and/or School Directors; or by filing an employee complaint under Title VII to the Directors of the United States Office of Civil Rights, Region 1, John McCormack POCH, Room 222, Boston, MA, 02109.

Appropriate information regarding harassment and recourse shall be posted in a prominent and accessible location in each workplace in the unit. Education and training shall take place as required by law for each new employee.

Adopted: July 12, 1983

Revised: 1992

Revised: January, 25, 1994

Reviewed: January 10, 2000

Revised: February 29, 2000

Reviewed: November 5, 2001


File: ACAD

 

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.

"Harassing behavior" includes acts of intimidation and any other conduct that recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health of a student or staff member. The behavior may be physical (e.g., hitting), verbal (e.g., threats), or psychological e.g., intimidation).

"Act of intimidation" include extortion; menacing; direct or indirect threats of violence; incidents of violence; bullying; statements or taunting of a malicious and/or derogatory nature that recklessly or intentionally endanger the mental or physical health of another person; and property damage or theft.

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.

This right to appeal does not apply to student suspensions of 10 days or less or to matters submitted to grievance procedures under applicable collective bargaining agreements.

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

Legal Reference: TITLE 20_A MRSA SEC. 6553.2

Cross Reference: ACAA - Student/Employee harassment Policy

JICI - Weapons in School

Adopted: March 14, 1995

Revised: December 14, 1999

Revised: December 11, 2001

Reviewed: November 5, 2001

 


FILE: ACE

 

POLICY ON THE TREATMENT OF INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

 

This policy is as per Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

It is the policy of Maine School Administrative District No. 9 not to discriminate against any otherwise qualified individual with disability, solely be reason of his/her disability, in admission or access to or treatment or employment in, any program or activity sponsored by this school district.

Inquires regarding compliance with this policy should be directed to the Section 504/ADA Coordinator of MSAD No. 9, 11 School Lane, New Sharon, ME, 04955, Telephone: 778-6571 or to the Office of Civil Rights, Region 1, John McCormack POCH, Room 222, Boston, MA 02109.

Adopted: January 25, 1994

Reviewed: 1/10/2000

Revised: February 29, 2000


File: AC-R

 

AFFIRMATIVE ACTION GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE

 

A.                 ELIGIBILITY FOR GRIEVANCE

 

When a student, employee, or any individual or group acting on behalf of a

student or employee, feels there has been discrimination on the basis of race, sex, color, national origin, marital or parental status, age, disability, or religion, he/ she may submit a written grievance to the principal, immediate supervisor, or directly to the Affirmative Action Coordinator.

 

B.                 INFORMAL GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE

 

                1.                 Grievances may be filed in writing within five (5) working days of the

                                alleged act.

 

                2.                 The Grievance Representative shall hold a pre-grievance meeting

                                between the respondent and grievant, within five days of filing,

                                to collect data, and shall make reasonable effort to resolve the

                                problem without utilizing the formal grievance procedure.

 

                3.                 The informal grievance procedure shall not be a prerequisite to filing a formal grievance.

 

C.                 FORMAL GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE

 

                Level I: 


                     1.  A formal written grievance should be filed with the principal, immediate supervisor, or the Affirmative Action Coordinator, as soon as possible, but within 60 days of the occurrence of the alleged incident.

 

                2. The Affirmative Action Formal Grievance Form shall be used for the written grievance.

 

                3. The Level I Hearing Officer shall promptly investigate the grievance.  Within five (5) days of the referral, he/she shall submit a written decision to the grievant, the respondent, and the Coordinator.

Level II:

 

                          1. If the written grievance is not resolved within five (5) working      days and the student or employee wishes to continue the grievance procedure, the Affirmative Action Coordinator will bring said grievance to the attention of the Superintendent of Schools.

                       

                2. The Superintendent will, within ten (10) working days after receiving a written grievance, review the situation in consultation with the Affirmative Action Coordinator and the grievant.  He/she will inform the grievant in writing of his/ her decision within the ten (10) working day period.

 

                3.  The Superintendent shall arrange a date for the Level II hearing and notify the grievant, the respondent, and the Affirmative Action Coordinator, of the time and place of the hearing.

Level III:

 

                   1. If the written grievance is not resolved to the grievant's satisfaction, the grievant may submit a written grievance to the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors will then schedule a time to discuss the grievance.

               

                                2.                 The hearing shall be held in executive session.

 

                                3.                The Board will notify the grievant of his/ her right to be at the meeting and that the grievant is entitled to representation by counsel and to speak at the meeting if he/she wishes.

 

                                4.                 The Board will notify the grievant in writing of its decision within five (5) working days following the Board meeting.

CONDUCTING GRIEVANCE HEARINGS -ALL LEVELS

 

1.                 Duration of the hearing shall be established by the Hearing Officer and shall provide for adequate time for the presentation of evidence.

2.                 Time shall be allocated for the grievant and respondent in equal parts.

3.                 Each party involved in the grievance shall be entitled to be represented by counsel and other assistance, as necessary. 

4.                Both parties shall have the right to present such witnesses as they deem necessary to develop the facts pertinent to the grievance.

5.                Both parties shall have the right to use their allocated time to ask questions of any person participating in the hearing.

6.                The Affirmative Action Coordinator shall present the grievance formally to

the Board prior to hearing the evidence. He/she shall also maintain records of all proceedings.

 

ALTERNATIVE FILING OF GRIEVANCE

    

1.                 A student may, at any time, file a grievance with the Office for Civil Rights, Region 1, John McCormack POCH, Room 222, Boston, MA 02109.

 

2.                 An employee may, at any time, file a grievance with the Maine Human Rights Commission, House Station #51, Augusta, ME 04333.

 

Adopted:                January 25, 1994

Revised:                March 21, 2000


File: AD

 

MISSION

 

MSAD No. 9 is committed to providing a safe, nurturing, and accepting environment where students can explore and develop their creative and intellectual abilities. We shall educate students, promote their self-esteem, and encourage them to achieve their maximum potential.

Students will demonstrate the ability to solve problems and to be self directed life-long learners. As productive members of our society students will demonstrate recognition and acceptance of individual differences, and demonstrate compassion and ethical judgment.

Adopted: January 11, 1994


FILE: ADA

 

SCHOOL DISTRICT GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

The MSAD No. 9 Board of Directors recognizes its responsibility to set goals for the efficient operation of the School District. In discharging this responsibility, the Board will strive to ensure that the resources of the district are directed toward meeting the educational needs of each eligible student.

Annual goals will be developed based on input solicited from a variety of sources. These goals will be shared with the community, the staff and the students. The administration will develop appropriate objectives designed to achieve the stated priorities.

The Board will regularly evaluate progress toward meeting the goals and will adopt appropriate policies designed to facilitate their accomplishment.

Legal Reference: Title 20-A MRSA Section 4511

Adopted: October 11, 1994

Revised: February 29, 2000


 

 

MSAD 9 Strategic Vision for the Year 2011

 

Created March 30, 2001

 

 

 

Maine School Administrative District 9 is a community center for educational excellence. We develop clear and effective communicators, integrative and informed thinkers, creative and practical problem solvers, caring, responsible and involved citizens, collaborative and quality workers, and self-directed lifelong learners.

MSAD 9 fosters healthy relationships. We collaborate to raise aspirations in the community. We participate in partnerships to promote educational, social and emotional growth. We partner with families, agencies and the community so students arrive prepared and eager to learn.

We have a dynamic educational system that is a safe, nurturing and intellectually stimulating environment for students, staff, family and community. Individuals learn who they are and what their passions are. We provide them with the tools to express and nurture their authentic selves in responsible and productive ways. We embrace diversity.

MSAD 9 facilities are warm and welcoming. They provide appropriate and comfortable learning and working environments for all. Our facilities are clean, safe and efficient, and meet the needs of our community. Our buses are an extension of our facilities. We promote the incorporation of environmentally friendly technologies.

The community values, appreciates and celebrates the work of all MSAD 9 staff and volunteers. The District employs and retains exceptionally qualified, friendly and competent personnel. We sustain a culture that results in staff and community pride.

Education is a treasure of our community. Each learner is a gem to be discovered, polished and cherished.

Adopted: December 11, 2001


File: BBA

 

SCHOOL BOARD POWERS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The school board shall have general charge of all the public schools of this unit and shall exercise such other responsibilities as specifically provided by law.

The board shall concern itself primarily with broad questions of policy rather than with administrative details. The application of policies is an administrative task to be performed by the superintendent and his/her staff, who shall be held responsible for the effective administration and supervision of the entire school system.

The board, functioning within the framework of laws, court decisions, attorney generals' opinions, and similar mandates from the state and national levels of government, and recognizing the authority of the state, fulfills its mission as the governing body of a political subdivision by acting as follows in the execution of its duties:

A. Enacts policy;

B. Provides for the planning, expansion, improvement, financing, construction and maintenance of the physical plant of the school system;

C. Prescribes the minimum standards needed for the efficient operation and improvement of the school system;

D. Requires the establishment and maintenance of records, accounts, archives, management methods and procedures incidental to the conduct of school business;

E. Approves the budget, financial reports, audits, major expenditures, payment of obligations, and policies whereby the administration may formulate procedures, regulations, and other guides for the orderly accomplishment of business;

F. Estimates and levies taxes for the operation, support, maintenance, improvement and extension of the school system;

G. Adopts courses of study;

H. Provides staff and instructional aids;

I. Evaluates the educational program to determine the effectiveness with which the schools are achieving the educational purposes of the school system; and

J. Provides for the dissemination of information relating to the schools necessary for creating a well_informed public.

Legal Reference: TITLE 20A MRSA, SEC. 1001

Adopted: January 25, 1994


FILE: BBAA

 

BOARD MEMBER AUTHORITY AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Members of the board have authority only when acting as a board legally in session. The board shall not be bound in any way by any action or statement on the part of any individual board member except when such statement or action is in pursuance of specific instructions from the board.

Legal Reference: TITLE 20A MRSA, SEC. 1001_1003

Adopted: January 25, 1994


FILE: BBBA

 

BOARD MEMBER QUALIFICATIONS

A person is legally qualified to become a member of the board if he/she is a United States citizen, a resident of the State of Maine, a qualified voter in the community or ward thereof by and from which he/she is elected and at least 18 years of age.

Elections shall be nonpartisan. Candidates' qualifications, residency requirements and proper nomination procedures shall be the same as candidates for other elected municipal positions.

No member of the board or spouse shall be an employee in any public school within the system.

Legal Reference: TITLE 30A MRSA, SEC. 2526

TITLE 20A MRSA, SEC. 1002.2

Adopted: January 25, 1994


FILE: BBBE

 

UNEXPIRED TERM FULFILLMENT/VACANCIES

 

A vacancy shall be declared when the term of office of a school Director expires, when a Director changes residency from the municipality from which elected, upon the death of a Director, when a Director resigns, or, except in municipalities having a municipal charter, when a Director is absent without excuse for three (3) consecutive meetings. The Board of Directors shall notify the municipal officers of the municipalities within the district before the annual town meetings or before regular city elections of the vacancies. The municipal officers shall then select an interim Director to serve until the next election.

Legal Reference: TITLE 20A MRSA, SEC. 1254

Adopted: January 25, 1994


FILE: BBD

 

BOARD_DECLARED VACANCY CAUSED BY ABSENTEEISM

When a member must be absent from a regular meeting of the school board for any reason, that member shall contact the board chair and request to be excused from the meeting; if the chair must be absent, he/she shall contact the vice chair. The chair (or vice chair) shall determine whether or not the request shall be granted, unless otherwise ruled by a majority of the board. The minutes of each meeting shall reflect the names of the members present, those absent with excuse (if any) and those absent without excuse (if any).

The board shall take the following action when a member is absent without excuse:

A. After two consecutive unexcused absences from regular meetings, the member shall be notified in writing by the board informing him/her that a third consecutive un_excused absence from a regular meeting will constitute cause for the board to consider declaring his/her seat on the board vacant.

B. After three (3) consecutive unexcused absences from regular meetings, the board shall notify said member in writing that the board will consider declaring his/her seat vacant at the next regular meeting of the board or at a special meeting called for the purpose of considering this matter.

C. At the meeting where the declaration of a vacancy, in accordance with this policy, is being considered, the board member who is the subject of the action shall be provided the opportunity to present his/her reasons why the board should not declare a vacancy.

D. Following the deliberation outlined in sections B and C of this policy, the board shall vote whether or not to declare a vacancy.

E. Should a vacancy be declared in accordance with this policy, the vacancy shall be filled in accordance with the appropriate provisions of MRSA Title 20_A.

F. An absence for any of the following reasons shall be routinely considered an excused absence: Illness of the member or members of his/her immediate family, death in the member's family, a short_term family obligation, or an unavoidable commitment related to the member's employment (so long as such a commitment is not of the type which prevents the member from attending on a regular basis). Absences for reasons other than those identified above shall be considered by the board on an individual basis.

Legal Reference: TITLE 20_A MRSA, SEC. 1254 (SAD)

TITLE 20_A MRSA, SEC. 1653 (CSD)

TITLE 20_A MRSA, SEC. 2305 (NON_CHARTERED MUNICIPALITY)

Adopted: January 25, 1994


File: BCA

 

BOARD MEMBER CODE OF ETHICS

This code of ethics will serve as a guide for providing a free public education to all the children of MSAD No. 9 within the State of Maine. Having accepted the challenge of service on the board of directors, directors are guided by the principles set forth in the following code of ethics.

Service on the board of directors is an opportunity to serve the community, state, and nation because public education is the best means to promote the welfare of people and to preserve a democratic way of life.

Board members must:

A. Think of children first and base all decisions on the affect on children, their education, and their training.

B. Make no disparaging remarks, in or out of the board meetings, about other members of the board or their opinions.

C. Remember at all times that each director has no legal authority outside the meetings of the board, and that directors should conduct their relationship with the school staff, the local citizenry, and all media on the basis of this fact.

D. Recognize that a director's responsibility is not to operate the schools but to see that they are well operated.

E. Seek to provide education for all children in the community commensurate with their needs and abilities.

F. Listen to all citizens but refer all complaints to the proper authorities, and discuss such complaints only at a regular meeting after failure of administrative solution.

G. Support a decision graciously once it has been made by the majority of the board.

H. Not criticize employees publicly, but make such criticism to the superintendent for investigation and action, if necessary.

I. Make decisions openly after all facts bearing on a question have been presented and discussed.

J. Refuse to make promises as to how a director will vote on a matter that should properly come before the board as a whole.

K. Refuse to discuss the confidential business of the board at home, on the street, or place of employment, the place for such discussion is the board meeting.

L. Confine board action to policy making, planning, and appraisal, leaving the administration of the schools to the superintendent.

M. Welcome and encourage cooperation and participation by teachers, administrators, and other personnel in developing policies that affect their welfare and that of the children they serve.

N. Endeavor at all times to see that schools have adequate financial support within the capabilities of the community and state, in order that every child may receive the best possible education.

O. Resist every temptation and outside pressure to use a position as a board member to benefit oneself or any individual or agency apart from the total interest of the school district.

P. Endeavor to attend every regular and special board meeting recognizing that each director's presence means representation for each community. If attendance is not possible for an extended length of time, then consideration should be given to resigning from the board.

Q. Recognize at all times that the board of directors serves as an agent of the state, and as such, needs to abide by the laws of the state and the regulations formulated by the State Board of Education, which is responsible for educational policies as determined by legislative acts.

 

 

Adopted: September 13, 1994


FILE: BCB

 

BOARD MEMBER CONFLICT OF INTEREST

A board member shall not have any direct or indirect pecuniary interest (as defined by law) in a contract with the school unit, nor shall he/she furnish directly any labor, equipment, or supplies to the unit.

In the event that a board member is employed by a corporation or business, or has a secondary interest in a corporation or business which furnishes goods or services to the schools, the board member shall declare his/her secondary interest and refrain from debating or voting upon the question of contracting with the company.

It is not the intent of this policy to prevent the school unit from contracting with corporations or businesses because a board member is an employee of the firm. The policy is designed to prevent the placing of board members in a position where their interest in public schools and their interest in their places of employment (or other indirect interest) might conflict, and to avoid appearances of conflict of interest even though such conflict may not exist.

A school board member may not, during the time the member serves on the board and for one year after the member ceases to serve on the board, be appointed to any civil office of profit or employment position which has been created or the compensation of which has been increased by the action of the school board during the time the member serves on the board.

A member of the Board or spouse of a member may not be an employee in a public school within the jurisdiction of the Board to which the member is elected.

A member of the Board or spouse of a member may not serve as a volunteer when that volunteer has primary responsibility for a curricular, co-curricular or extracurricular program or activity and reports directly to the Superintendent, principal, athletic director or other school administrator in a public school within the jurisdiction of the Board to which the member is elected.

Volunteer activities of a member of the Board or member’s spouse, other than in roles that are prohibited by this section, may be prescribed by policies developed and approved by the Board.

 

Legal Reference: TITLE 20A MRSA SEC. 1002 ET SEQ.; SEC. 1051

TITLE 17 MRSA SEC. 3104

TITLE 30A MRSA SEC. 2251; SEC. 2604 ET SEQ.

Adopted: January 25, 1994

Revised: December 14, 1999


File: BCC

 

NEPOTISM

Board of Directors and Superintendent

It shall be the policy of the board not to elect personnel to the staff of the school unit when the candidate may be the next_of_kin (spouse, parent, sibling, child) of a member of the board or of the superintendent. Next_of_kin, except spouses, employed by the school unit as of the date of policy adoption, will be excluded from this policy.

Administrators and Staff

No person shall be employed in a position which is within the jurisdiction of an administrative officer who is a member of the immediate family of such person, nor shall any person be employed in a position where a member of the immediate family is responsible, in whole or in part, for the supervision and/or evaluation of the employee. Individuals employed by the school unit finding themselves in this position as of the date of this policy adoption, will be excluded from this policy.

Whenever a member of the immediate family of any employee is hired, the board shall be notified of the relationship.

The board may approve an exception to this policy where the board determines that granting of such exception is in the best interest of the school system.

For the purpose of this section, the following definitions shall apply:

A. "Administrative Officer" shall mean any person who holds a supervisory position of assistant principal or higher rank; Buildings and Grounds and Maintenance Supervisor; Transportation Supervisor; and, the Director of Support Services.

B. "Member of immediate family" shall mean spouse, sibling, parent, child, or, significant other - which means any person residing in the household of the MSAD No. 9 Administrator or Director in a relationship with that official comparable to the relationship which would exist with a person included under paragraphs (1) through (4) of this definition.

Legal Reference: TITLE 20_A MRSA SEC. 1002

Adopted: September 13, 1994


FILE: BDA

 

BOARD ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING

Reorganization shall be effected at the first regular meeting of the board in July. At this meeting, there shall be an election for the ensuing year of a chair and a vice chair.

The chair and vice chair shall serve until the next annual reorganizational meeting, at the pleasure of the board. Removal prior to the next reorganizational meeting shall require three_fifths (3/5) vote of the whole board.

The board chair shall appoint members of the board to standing committees. Each committee shall elect its own chair. The board chair shall appoint members of the board to any temporary committees.

All committees shall be composed of less than the majority of the board.

Adopted: January 25, 1994


FILE: BDB

 

BOARD OFFICERS

The Board of Directors shall consist of 15 members.

Duties of the Chair

The chair shall preside at all meetings of the board and shall perform other duties as directed by law, Maine Department of Education regulations, and by this board. In carrying out these responsibilities, the chair shall:

A. Sign the instruments, acts, and orders necessary to carry out state requirements and the will of the board;

B. Consult with the superintendent in the planning of the board meeting agendas;

C. Confer with the superintendent on crucial matters which may occur between board meetings;

D. Appoint board committees, subject to board approval, and serve as an ex_officio member of all such committees;

E. Call special meetings of the board as necessary;

F. Be public spokesperson for the board at all times except as this responsibility is specifically delegated to others;

G. Be responsible for the orderly conduct of all board meetings; and

H. Prepare an annual report.

As presiding officer at all meetings of the board, the chair shall:

A. Call the meeting to order at the appointed time;

B. Announce the business to come before the board in its proper order;

C. Enforce the board's policies relating to the order of business and the conduct of meetings;

D. Recognize persons who desire to speak, and protect the speaker who has the floor from disturbance or interference;

E. Explain, as appropriate, what the effect of a motion would be;

F. Restrict discussion to the question when a motion is before the board;

G. Answer parliamentary inquiries, referring questions of legality to the board attorney; and

H. Put motions to a vote, restating definitely and clearly the motion, stating the vote and result thereof.

The chair shall have the right, as other board members have, to offer resolutions, discuss questions, and vote.

Duties of the Vice_Chair

In the absence of the chair, the vice_chair shall perform all the duties of the chair.

Duties of the Secretary

The superintendent shall serve as secretary of the board, with the right to speak on all questions and offer recommendations. The secretary shall be responsible for ensuring that records are kept of all business transacted by the board at both regular and appropriately called special meetings, and shall perform such other functions as are ordinarily functions of this office.

Legal Reference: TITLE 20A MRSA SEC. 1055 (ALL)

TITLE 20A MRSA SEC. 1251.5, 7 (SAD'S)

TITLE 20A MRSA SEC. 1651, 2 (CSD'S)

Adopted: September 11, 1978

Revised: January 25, 1994

Reviewed: November 12, 1996


FILE: BDD

 

BOARD_SUPERINTENDENT RELATIONSHIP

The board believes that the legislation of policies is the most important function of a school board and that the execution of the policies should be the function of the superintendent.

Delegation by the board of its executive powers to the superintendent provides freedom for the superintendent to manage the schools within the board's policies and frees the board to devote its time to policy-making and appraisal functions.

The board holds the superintendent responsible for the administration of its policies, the execution of board decisions, the operation of the internal machinery designed to serve the school program and for keeping the board informed about school operations and problems.

The board shall strive to procure, when a vacancy exists, the best professional leader available for the head administrative post. Then the board as a whole, and individual members, shall:

A. Give the superintendent full administrative authority for properly discharging his/her professional duties, holding him/her responsible for acceptable results;

B. Act only upon the recommendation of the superintendent in matters of employment or dismissal of school personnel;

C. Hold all meetings of the board in the presence of the superintendent;

D. Refer all complaints, criticisms, and requests to the superintendent, and discuss them only at a regular meeting after failure of administrative solution;

E. Strive to provide adequate safeguards around the superintendent and other staff members to the end that they can live happily and comfortably in the community and discharge their educational functions on a thoroughly professional basis; and

F. Present personal criticisms of any employee directly to the superintendent.

Cross Reference: CBB _ QUALIFICATIONS AND DUTIES OF THE

ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT

CBA _ QUALIFICATIONS AND DUTIES OF THE

SUPERINTENDENT

Adopted: January 25, 1994


FILE: BDD

 

BOARD_SUPERINTENDENT RELATIONSHIP

The board believes that the legislation of policies is the most important function of a school board and that the execution of the policies should be the function of the superintendent.

Delegation by the board of its executive powers to the superintendent provides freedom for the superintendent to manage the schools within the board's policies and frees the board to devote its time to policy-making and appraisal functions.

The board holds the superintendent responsible for the administration of its policies, the execution of board decisions, the operation of the internal machinery designed to serve the school program and for keeping the board informed about school operations and problems.

The board shall strive to procure, when a vacancy exists, the best professional leader available for the head administrative post. Then the board as a whole, and individual members, shall:

A. Give the superintendent full administrative authority for properly discharging his/her professional duties, holding him/her responsible for acceptable results;

B. Act only upon the recommendation of the superintendent in matters of employment or dismissal of school personnel;

C. Hold all meetings of the board in the presence of the superintendent;

D. Refer all complaints, criticisms, and requests to the superintendent, and discuss them only at a regular meeting after failure of administrative solution;

E. Strive to provide adequate safeguards around the superintendent and other staff members to the end that they can live happily and comfortably in the community and discharge their educational functions on a thoroughly professional basis; and

F. Present personal criticisms of any employee directly to the superintendent.

Cross Reference: CBB _ QUALIFICATIONS AND DUTIES OF THE

ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT

CBA _ QUALIFICATIONS AND DUTIES OF THE

SUPERINTENDENT

Adopted: January 25, 1994


FILE: BDE

 

BOARD COMMITTEES

The board shall authorize the establishment of only such standing committees from among its membership as it finds strictly necessary to study operations in specific areas and to make recommendations for board action. The following rules will govern the appointment and function of such committees:

A. The committee shall be established through action of the board.

B. The committee members shall be appointed by the board chair and each committee shall elect its own chair.

C. The committee shall be provided with a list of its specific functions and duties.

D. The committee may make recommendations for board action, but it may not act for the board.

E. The board chair and superintendent shall be ex-officio members of all standing committees.

F. All standing committees shall be dissolved at the end of the board's year_at an annual organizational meeting unless they are specifically reappointed. They may be dissolved at any time by a vote of the board.

G. All standing committees are at liberty to invite other than committee members to their meeting.

Standing committees shall be composed of less than a majority of the membership of the board.

The Board shall elect a three (3) member Finance Committee at its annual reorganization meeting. This committee shall review all payrolls and warrants and signify approval by affixing their signatures thereto.

Legal Reference: TITLE 1 MRSA SEC. 401 ET SEQ.

Adopted: January 25, 1994


FILE: BDF

 

ADVISORY COMMITTEES TO THE BOARD

Advisory committees will be appointed only when there are definite functions to be performed. Such function shall be indicated to any committee in writing when it is appointed.

Advisory committees are to be appointed at the pleasure of the board.

Advisory committees will be appointed primarily to advise the board. In general, individual members of such committees shall not be requested to perform specific services for the board. Unique talents of members can best be utilized on a consultative basis.

Advisory committees will not be appointed to advise on matters requiring decision by the board unless adequate time is available for a thorough study by the committee.

The board will seek the advice of the superintendent before establishing or dissolving any advisory committee.

Specific topics for study or well-defined areas of activity shall be assigned in writing to each committee immediately following its appointment.

Upon completing its assignment, each committee shall either be given new charges or shall be dissolved promptly. No committee shall be allowed to continue for prolonged periods without a definite assignment.

Each committee shall be instructed as to:

A. The role of the committee being advisory only;

B. The service the board wishes it to render;

C. The resources the board intends to provide to help it complete its task;

D. The approximate dates on which the board wishes it to submit reports;

E. The time and place of the first meeting;

F. Its relationships with the board as a whole, with members of the professional staff; and

G. The approximate date on which the board wishes to dissolve the committee.

The board shall have the sole power to dissolve any of its advisory committees and shall reserve the right to exercise this power at any time during the life of any committee.

Any committee mandated by state statute is exempt from this policy.

 

 

Adopted: May 13, 1988 (as File: BCF)

Revised: January 25, 1994


FILE: BE

 

SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS

Regular Meetings

Regularly scheduled meetings may be of two kinds: business or educational. The latter type may be held for the purpose of reviewing and evaluating the school program or the development and discussion of policy. The Board may cancel regular meetings if there is not adequate material for a full agenda. The Board of Directors shall meet twice each month on days designated by the Board of Directors. All meetings shall be open to the public and the public is encouraged to attend.

Special Meetings

Such a meeting may be called by the chair of the board, or by a majority of the board members in the event that the chair fails to act, or by the secretary. No business shall be transacted except that for which the meeting is called.

Executive Sessions

Executive sessions of the board shall be called in accordance with State law and at such time and place as required for discussion of matters as permitted by statute. No action may be taken on topics discussed in executive session; all actions of the board are required by law to be taken in a public meeting.

Legal Reference: TITLE 1 MRSA SEC. 403 ET SEQ.

TITLE 20A MRSA SEC. 1001

Cross Reference: BEC _ EXECUTIVE SESSIONS

BEDA _ NOTIFICATION OF BOARD MEETINGS

Adopted: January 25, 1994


File: BEC

 

EXECUTIVE SESSIONS

Except as provided by law, all meetings of the board shall be open to the public, and all persons shall be permitted to attend the meetings. The board may hold executive sessions upon recorded vote of 3/5 of the members present and voting, and the motions to go into executive session shall indicate the nature of the business of the executive session. Deliberations may be conducted in executive sessions only on those matters defined in the law. No final action shall be taken in executive session.

By its very nature, the subject matter of executive sessions is highly confidential. It is expected that all parties to such discussions will respect the need for confidentiality unless and/or until the information appropriately becomes public.

Legal Reference: TITLE 1 MRSA SEC. 401 ET SEQ.

Cross Reference: BE _ SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS

BEC_E _ EXECUTIVE SESSION LAW

Adopted: September 11, 1978 (as File: BDC)

Revised: January 25, 1994


File: BEC_E

 

EXECUTIVE SESSION LAW

I. To Enter Executive Session, a Board Must:

A. Start with a public meeting;

B. Have a public recorded vote of 3/5 of members present and voting; and

C. State the precise nature of business in motion to enter executive session. The nature of each matter must be stated if more than one. When labor contracts are the subject of an executive session, the parties must be named.

II. Restrictions During Executive Session:

A. Only matters stated in the motion may be considered;

B. No official actions shall be finally approved; and

C. No public record shall be kept.

III. Items Which May Be Discussed In Executive Session:

A. Discussion or consideration of employment, appointment, assignment, duties, compensation, evaluation, resignation, disciplining, promotion, demotion or dismissal of public officials, appointees or employees or the investigation of charges or complaints against persons, subject to the following conditions:

1. Only when public discussion could be reasonably expected to cause damage to the reputation or violate the individual's right to privacy;

2. Person charged or investigated has right to be present;

3. Person charged or investigated may request in writing that the investigation be conducted in open session. Such requests must be honored; and

4. Any person bringing charges shall be permitted to be present (does not specify participation).

B. Discussion or consideration of suspension or expulsion of a student, the cost of whose education is paid from public funds. The student and legal counsel (and parents or guardian if student is a minor) shall be permitted to be present if student, parents or guardian so desire.

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File: BEC_E

C. Discussion or consideration of the condition, acquisition or the use of real or personal property only if premature disclosure would prejudice the bargaining position of the body or agency.

D. Board discussion of labor contracts and proposals and meetings may be held in executive session. (Negotiations between the representatives of a public employer and public employees are closed unless opened by agreement of both parties.)

E. Consultations between a body or agency and its attorney concerning legal rights, pending litigation, and settlement offers, when premature public knowledge would give the board substantial disadvantage.

F. Discussion of records made, maintained or received by the body or agency, when access by the general public is prohibited by statute.

Legal Reference: TITLE 1 MRSA, SEC. 405

Cross Reference: BEC _ EXECUTIVE SESSIONS

Adopted: June 1986 (as File: BDC-E)

Revised: January 25, 1994

Revised: December 14, 1999


File: BEDA

 

NOTIFICATION OF BOARD MEETINGS

It shall be the policy of the board to announce all meetings publicly. Except in the event of rare emergencies, such announcement will be made in sufficient time for the public to be informed of the meeting through the news media at least 24 hours in advance.

In the event of rare emergency situations when 24_hours printed notice of a special meeting cannot be given the public, the board secretary shall make every effort to make the meeting known to the public through other channels.

All board members shall receive personal notification of meetings. Except in emergency situations, notice of special meetings shall be given board members at least 24 hours in advance. Notice of a special meeting shall state the object of that meeting.

Additionally, notices of budget meetings shall be sent to the city/town government officials and the press with an invitation to attend.

Legal Reference: TITLE 1 MRSA SEC. 401 ET SEQ.

Cross Reference: BE _ SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS

Adopted: January 25, 1994


File: BEDB

 

AGENDA

 

The superintendent, in cooperation with the chair, shall prepare an agenda for each meeting and have it delivered with supporting information to each board member so that he/she will typically have this material at least 48 hours prior to each regular meeting or work session meeting or 24 hours prior to each special meeting except an emergency special meeting.

Items not on the agenda for a regular meeting may be considered upon a two_thirds (2/3) vote of the board members present.

No business shall be transacted at any special meeting of the board which does not come within the purpose set forth in the agenda for the meeting.

The regular board meeting agenda will be mailed to the press and school_affiliated organizations at the same time it is sent to the board. Others may be sent copies of the agenda upon written request and payment of appropriate costs for printing and mailing.

Individuals may obtain copies of the agenda either at the regular meeting or at the Superintendent's Office prior to the regular meeting.

Adopted: January 25, 1994


FILE: BEDC

 

QUORUM

A majority of the full membership of the board shall constitute a quorum for purposes of taking action. A majority vote of the members voting on a typical matter shall determine the outcome.

Legal Reference: TITLE 20A MRSA SEC. 1257 (SAD)

Adopted: January 25, 1994


FILE: BEDD

 

RULES OF ORDER

Except as otherwise provided by law or by regulations of the Department of Education, or as otherwise provided in board policy, Robert's Rules of Order, Revised (latest edition available) shall be used to resolve procedural uncertainties.

Adopted: September 11, 1978 (as File: BDDE)

Revised: January 25, 1994


FILE: BEDF

 

VOTING METHOD

Voting shall be by show of hands ordinarily. Voting shall be done by roll call at the direction of the presiding officer, or at the request of any board member. When voting by roll call, the names of the members shall be called alphabetically, and each member shall respond "Yes" or "No" or "Not Voting." The roll call vote shall be recorded in the minutes.

Maine public officials are obliged to vote openly; thus, secret ballots are not to be used by the school board.

A motion shall be declared "Carried" upon the affirmative vote of the majority of the members present.

 

 

Adopted: September 11, 1978 (as File: BDDF)

Revised: January 25, 1994


FILE: BEDG

 

MINUTES

The superintendent, in his/her function as board secretary, shall keep complete records of all meetings of the board. Minutes of all meetings of the full board shall be mailed to all board members and to those organizations supplying stamped, self_addressed envelopes.

The minutes of each meeting shall reflect the names of the members present, those absent with excuse (if any), and those absent without excuse (if any).

Cross Reference: BBD _ BOARD DECLARED VACANCY CAUSED BY

ABSENTEEISM

Adopted: September 11, 1978 (as File: BDDG)

Revised: January 25, 1994


File: BEDH

 

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION AT BOARD MEETINGS

Regular, special and emergency meetings of the school board are open to the public. This board, as an elected representative body of the school unit, wishes to provide opportunity for citizens to express interests and concerns related to the matters under consideration by the board. The public is cordially invited to attend and participate as set forth in this policy.

Board meetings are conducted for the purpose of carrying on the official business of the school system. The meetings are not public forum meetings (as are town meetings), but are meetings which are held for the board to do its business in public. The minutes of each public meeting will record the action taken and will show how the board voted on each item presented for action. The journal of minutes is open and available to the public during normal business hours in the Office of the Superintendent of Schools.

Orderly conduct of a meeting does not permit spontaneous discussion from the audience nor among board members. Individuals or organizations desiring to make requests, presentations or proposals on matters before the board will be provided that opportunity.

Generally, public participation shall be limited to time periods just prior to board discussion of the agenda items upon which citizens wish to comment.

The intent of this policy is to allow a fair and adequate opportunity for the public to be heard, to provide adequate time for the board to obtain necessary information on a subject before it, and to see that time allowed for open discussion does not interfere with the fulfillment of the scheduled agenda of the board.

In order that the board may fairly and adequately discharge its overall responsibility, a member of the public wishing to address the board on a specific topic not otherwise on the agenda must submit such a request in writing to the superintendent at least one full week in advance of the scheduled meeting. The superintendent and/or board chair may add the item to the agenda at their discretion, or the chair may waive this requirement.

An agenda shall be published in advance of each meeting in accordance with board policy. Copies are to be posted, or available for at least three weekdays prior to regular meetings, at the superintendent's office and in each school, town hall, the public library or other appropriate public facilities. Anyone desiring additional information about any item on the agenda should direct such inquiries to the Office of the Superintendent.

Legal Reference: TITLE 1 MRSA SEC. 401 ET SEQ.__FREEDOM OF ACCESS

Cross Reference: BEC _ EXECUTIVE SESSION

BEDA _ NOTIFICATION OF BOARD MEETINGS

BEDB _ AGENDA

BEDC _ QUORUM

BEDD _ RULES OF ORDER

BEDG _ MINUTES

Adopted: January 25, 1994


File: BEDH

 

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION AT BOARD MEETINGS

Regular, special and emergency meetings of the school board are open to the public. This board, as an elected representative body of the school unit, wishes to provide opportunity for citizens to express interests and concerns related to the matters under consideration by the board. The public is cordially invited to attend and participate as set forth in this policy.

Board meetings are conducted for the purpose of carrying on the official business of the school system. The meetings are not public forum meetings (as are town meetings), but are meetings which are held for the board to do its business in public. The minutes of each public meeting will record the action taken and will show how the board voted on each item presented for action. The journal of minutes is open and available to the public during normal business hours in the Office of the Superintendent of Schools.

Orderly conduct of a meeting does not permit spontaneous discussion from the audience nor among board members. Individuals or organizations desiring to make requests, presentations or proposals on matters before the board will be provided that opportunity.

Generally, public participation shall be limited to time periods just prior to board discussion of the agenda items upon which citizens wish to comment.

The intent of this policy is to allow a fair and adequate opportunity for the public to be heard, to provide adequate time for the board to obtain necessary information on a subject before it, and to see that time allowed for open discussion does not interfere with the fulfillment of the scheduled agenda of the board.

In order that the board may fairly and adequately discharge its overall responsibility, a member of the public wishing to address the board on a specific topic not otherwise on the agenda must submit such a request in writing to the superintendent at least one full week in advance of the scheduled meeting. The superintendent and/or board chair may add the item to the agenda at their discretion, or the chair may waive this requirement.

An agenda shall be published in advance of each meeting in accordance with board policy. Copies are to be posted, or available for at least three weekdays prior to regular meetings, at the superintendent's office and in each school, town hall, the public library or other appropriate public facilities. Anyone desiring additional information about any item on the agenda should direct such inquiries to the Office of the Superintendent.

 

Legal Reference: TITLE 1 MRSA SEC. 401 ET SEQ.__FREEDOM OF ACCESS

Cross Reference: BEC _ EXECUTIVE SESSION

BEDA _ NOTIFICATION OF BOARD MEETINGS

BEDB _ AGENDA

BEDC _ QUORUM

BEDD _ RULES OF ORDER

BEDG _ MINUTES

Adopted: January 25, 1994


File: BEDH-R

 

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION AT BOARD MEETINGS REGULATIONS

The following "ground rules" are to further guide public participation at meetings:

A. The chair may limit the time given to comments on a particular topic as well as the time any individual may speak.

B. In the event of a sizeable audience, the chair may require persons interested in speaking to so indicate by signing up to speak, so they may be called on in the most expedient order.

C. Citizens, employees and others with a legitimate interest in the board's business are welcome to participate as provided in this policy. Others may be recognized to speak at the board's discretion. Employees or employee groups will not be permitted to discuss matters for which other, more appropriate forums are provided

D. All speakers are to identify themselves as they begin talking. They will not be permitted to participate in gossip, make defamatory comments, or use abusive or vulgar language. The board chair will maintain the prerogative to discontinue any presentation which violates any of the public participation guidelines.

E. All speakers are to address the board chair and may direct questions or comments to board members or other officers of the school system only upon approval of the chair. Members of the board and the superintendent have the privilege of asking questions of any person who addresses the board. Such questions must be addressed through the chair.

F. Comments and suggestions will be welcomed and given consideration by the board. Speakers may offer objective comments on school operations and programs that concern them. Generally, the board may hear but not discuss or act on an item not on the agenda. Personal matters or complaints will not be entertained in a public meeting but will be deferred to established resolution procedures. Questions and concerns will be responded to through appropriate channels.

G. No complaints or allegations will be allowed concerning any personnel or any person connected to the school system. If appropriate, concerns about an individual will be handled in a conference where the rights and interests of all parties will be appropriately regarded.

Page 1 of 2

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File: BEDH-R

H. Generally, duplication or repetition of comments to the board should be avoided in order to make the most efficient use of the time in meetings. Groups or organizations are requested to be represented by designated spokespersons.

I. Special procedures shall be in place in case of disturbance or disorder. Such shall be prepared and reviewed annually by the superintendent, board chair, board attorney, and others, as appropriate.

J. The board shall, when appropriate, hold special public meetings at which no formal action is to be taken. This shall be solely for the purpose of encouraging interested citizens and groups to discuss with the board any aspects of the school system operations. The times and locations of these meetings shall be at the convenience of the public, to the extent practical. Such meetings should not be occasions for employees to discuss concerns which should be handled through other forums.

Legal Reference: TITLE 1 MRSA SEC. 401 ET SEQ.__FREEDOM OF ACCESS

Cross Reference: BEC _ EXECUTIVE SESSION

BEDA _ NOTIFICATION OF BOARD MEETINGS

BEDB _ AGENDA

BEDC _ QUORUM

BEDD _ RULES OF ORDER

BEDG _ MINUTES

Adopted: January 25, 1994

Revised: February 29, 2000


FILE: BEDJ

 

BROADCASTING/TAPING OF BOARD MEETINGS

The following guidelines will govern the public use of recording devices at the public meetings of the school board and subcommittees of the school unit.

Any recording device may be used by members of the public so long as it does not:

A. Require the use of power cords and microphone cords that would interfere with the free movement of traffic into, out of, and within the meeting room;

B. Produce sufficient continuous or periodic sounds that interfere with speakers or with the ability of all persons present to hear the proceedings;

C. Require the occasional or frequent relocation of a microphone or microphones in such a manner as to be disruptive to speakers or other persons present; and/or;

D. Require excessive space in the meeting room so that any participants or observers at the meeting are displaced or excluded or cannot see because of the device.

Whenever a taped or filmed recording is being made of a meeting, the person making the tape or film shall first notify the board chair or the appropriate person conducting the meeting that the meeting is to be filmed or taped.

When, at the request of any board member and/or when, in the judgment of the chair, any of the above guidelines have been violated in such a way as to interfere with the conduct of the meeting or with the ability of the public to observe the proceedings of the meeting, the chair shall request the operator of the recording device to comply with the guidelines. If said interference continues, the chair shall direct that the recording be discontinued and, if necessary, that the recording device be removed from the meeting room.

Adopted: January 13, 1981

Revised: January 25, 1994


FILE: BE-R

 

ADJOURNMENT OF BOARD MEETINGS

Meetings of the school board shall be adjourned by 9:00 p.m. except when a motion to continue past this hour has been carried by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the board members in attendance. It is also intended that a topic started before the 9:00 p.m. curfew may be continued beyond that point.

The agenda shall specify the time of each meeting, and the meeting shall be cancelled or postponed if a quorum is not present within fifteen (15) minutes of the designated time.

Adopted: January 25, 1994

Revised: June 18, 2002


File: BG

 

 

SCHOOL BOARD POLICY PROCESS

It is the intent of the board to develop written policies to serve as guidelines and goals for the successful and efficient functioning of the school unit.

The board considers policy development its chief function, along with providing the wherewithal__such as personnel, buildings, materials, and equipment__for the successful administration, application and execution of its policies.

The board accepts the definition of policy set forth by the National School Boards Association:

"Policies are principles adopted by the school board to chart a course of action. They tell what is wanted; they may include why and how much. Policies should be broad enough to indicate a line of action to be followed by the administration in meeting a number of problems, yet narrow enough to give clear guidance. Policies are guides for action by the administration, which then sets the rules and regulations to provide specific directions to school district personnel."

It is the board's intention that its policies serve as sources of information and guidance for people who are interested in or connected with the unit's schools.

The policies are framed and are meant to be interpreted in terms of state statute, Rules of the State Board of Education, and all other regulatory agencies within our local, county, state, and federal levels of government. The policies are also framed and are meant to be interpreted in terms of those educational objectives, procedures, and practices which are broadly accepted by leaders and authorities in the public education field.

Changes in needs, conditions, purposes, and objectives will require revisions, deletions, and additions to the policies of the current board and those of the future. The board will welcome suggestions for ongoing policy development.

Action on board policy proposals will be taken upon a recommendation of the Policy Committee. The development of the policy statement shall be the responsibility of the Policy Committee and the superintendent, with final adoption in accordance with board policy.

Cross Reference: BGB _ POLICY ADOPTION

Adopted: January 25, 1994


File: BGB

 

POLICY ADOPTION

Policy proposals and suggested amendments to or revisions of existing policies shall be submitted to all members of the board and to the superintendent in writing prior to a regularly scheduled board meeting in which such proposed policies, amendments, or revisions shall be given first reading and discussed. A vote for adoption shall take place at the next appropriate regular meeting of the board. Action shall be by two-thirds (2/3's) majority vote of the whole board. Minutes of each meeting shall reflect any readings and action taken.

Development of all such proposals for new or amended policies prior to their submission to the board for action shall include, to the fullest extent practical, deliberative discussions with all persons to be affected or their representatives.

Cross Reference: BG _ SCHOOL BOARD POLICY PROCESS

Adopted: January 25, 1994


FILE: BGB_R

 

POLICY ADOPTION _ PROCEDURES

The procedure for proposing the adoption, review, revision or deletion of a school board policy shall be:

A. The Policy Committee is charged with reviewing and recommending all policies/policy changes to be considered by the board.

1. Individual board members, other standing committees, and the superintendent should submit policy suggestions and concerns to the Policy Committee.

2. The Policy Committee shall have the responsibility to review and research each suggestion in accordance with board policies, then prepare drafts as appropriate and make recommendations to the entire board.

Any school board member may enter the adoption, revision, or deletion of a policy on the agenda of any regular meeting when the Policy Committee, after having had full opportunity to consider the member's submitted suggestion, fails to recommend action satisfactory to the member.

3. At an appropriate stage in the policy consideration, the Policy Committee shall initiate contact with the representative teacher organization to provide opportunity to meet and consult regarding any proposed new or changed educational policy, in accordance with Title 26 MRSA, section 965.1, C.

B. Upon recommendation by the Policy Committee, a regular meeting agenda shall include the first reading of a new proposal, revision or deletion of policy. Discussion may take place on the substance of the policy proposal, and a formal vote shall be held to acknowledge the first reading of the policy. Any changes agreed to by consensus or formally adopted amendment shall be made prior to the second reading.

C. At the next regular meeting, the policy shall be placed on the agenda for second reading and action. Amendments may be introduced and acted upon. If a main motion to approve the policy is not passed at such a meeting by a two-thirds (2/3's) majority vote of the whole board, the process for that policy is ended. However, if special circumstances apply, limited additional time may be obtained for further consideration by the adoption of a motion to table the policy to a specific date no later than five weeks hence.

D. Immediately upon approval, policies/revisions/deletions shall be disseminated. Policies deleted and changed shall be recalled.

Cross Reference: BG _ SCHOOL BOARD POLICY PROCESS

BGB _ POLICY ADOPTION

CHD _ ADMINISTRATION IN THE ABSENCE OF POLICY

Adopted: January 25, 1994


File: BIA

 

NEW BOARD MEMBER ORIENTATION

A new board member or a member_elect of the school unit shall be afforded the fullest measures of courtesy and cooperation by the board and staff. They shall make every feasible effort to assist the new member to become fully informed about the board's functions, policies, procedures, and current issues.

A. In the interim between appointment/election and actually assuming office, the new member will be invited to attend all meetings and functions of the board, excluding executive sessions and voting, and is to receive all reports and communications normally sent to board members and to join the Board Members at the table. It is anticipated that the board member_elect will agree to maintain confidentiality to the same degree as when officially sworn in.

B. New members will be encouraged to attend appropriate orientation workshops. Activities involving the possible reimbursement of expenses should be cleared first with the board chair.

C. The new member is to be provided with copies of all appropriate publications and aids, the board policy manual, and publications of the national and state school boards associations including the MSBA Board Member Handbook.

D. The board chair and members of the administrative staff will also confer with the new member as necessary on special problems or concerns.

Adopted: Septemeber 1978 (as File: BHA)

Revised: January 25, 1994


File: BIB

 

BOARD MEMBER DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES

On_going development and in_service education are critical aspects of the overall operation of a school system. It is recognized that the board members of this school unit, like administrators, teachers and other school personnel, need to be well_informed and to stay current on education issues. Continually enhancing boardsmanship skills is necessary to make each member the best that he/she can be.

Participation is encouraged in appropriate local, regional, state and national programs sponsored by the Maine School Boards Association, the Maine School Management Association, The National School Boards Association and other recognized leaders in education. This board is committed to the further development of its members so that the greatest good can be rendered by them on behalf of the children in our schools. Adequate funds are to be budgeted annually to fulfill that important responsibility of school governance.

Reasonable expenses incurred by board members when giving of their time to obtain in_service education shall be reimbursed in accordance with existing policy and budget allocations.

Members shall briefly report to the board and the public at a meeting subsequent to a formal in_service experience. This is to share knowledge gained and to inform the community of the benefits from such expenditures to enhance the ability to oversee the school system effectively. Written reports, by board members or about in_service education events attended, shall appear in school and community publications when appropriate as part of the school unit's public information program.

The board is committed to the individual and collective seeking of good advice, reliable information and feasible solutions to problems. The board's needs are included with those of the staff for a well_developed, comprehensive in_service education program to assist all who are responsible for effective and enlightened school leadership.

Adopted: January 25, 1994


FILE: BID-R

 

BOARD MEMBER COMPENSATION AND EXPENSES

A stipend of $15.00 per meeting, plus mileage, for each board member is authorized. This payment will be made for attendance at all regular meetings and for attendance at special meetings when minutes are prepared and subsequently accepted.

Legal Reference: TITLE 20A MRSA SEC. 1251 (SAD)

TITLE 20A MRSA SEC. 1652 (CSD)

TITLE 20A MRSA SEC. 2306 (MUN)

 

Adopted: January 25, 1994

Revised: July 1, 2001 (by vote of the district towns)

Reviewed: June 11, 2002


EVALUATION PROCEDURE/CRITERIA - SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS

M.S.A.D. #9 - FARMINGTON, MAINE

I. Purpose of Evaluation

The purpose of the evaluation of the Superintendent is two-fold. First, it is necessary to determine the ability of the Superintendent to carry-on his assigned responsibilities. Secondly, the establishing and carrying-out of mutually agreed upon employment goals and objectives is important to the overall improvement and progress of the school system.

Only by open communication and mutual understanding of expectations can the Superintendent achieve the working relationship essential to the operation of a successful school system.

II. Goals & Objectives

A. The Board and Superintendent shall meet annually, in January, in executive session for the purpose of establishing mutually agreed upon employment goals and objectives for the upcoming year. The Superintendent shall submit his/her proposed goals and objectives to the Board in advance of the meeting.

B. The Board and Superintendent shall meet in executive session at mid-year for the purpose of discussing progress toward meeting the employment goals and objectives established. Should circumstances warrant, the Board and Superintendent may mutually agree to make changes in the employment goals and objectives established in January.

C. The Superintendent shall prepare a report to the Board to be submitted at the time of his/her annual evaluation in November. His/her report shall included his/her assessment of employment goals and objectives established the previous January.

III. Evaluation by the Board

A. The Board shall be called to a special meeting by the Chair annually, in November, for the purpose of evaluating the Superintendent.

B. The Board shall, at that meeting, discuss with the Superintendent his/her performance in relation to criteria as defined by the Board. They shall also discuss the progress made toward meeting the employment goals and objectives established for the year. (Note: The purpose of establishing specific employment goals and objectives is intended to assist the Superintendent to establish priorities for action. Failure to accomplish certain employment goals and/or objectives is not intended, necessarily, to connote failure on the part of the Superintendent in his/her position.)

C. The Chair of the Board in conjunction with the administrator evaluation committee shall see that a written summary be prepared reflecting the evaluation of the Superintendent by the Board as a whole. A copy of the summary shall be signed by the Board Chair and discussed with the Superintendent who shall, in turn, sign it as an indication that he/she has read and discussed the document with the Board Chair. A copy of the summary shall be placed in the Superintendent's personnel file, a copy retained the Board Chair, and a copy provided for the Superintendent.

Any minority statements by individual Board members expressing disagreement with any portion of the Board's evaluation as summarized, may be included with the summary provided they are signed by the member(s) expressing such disagreement.

Criteria for Evaluating the Superintendent

The Superintendent supervises the overall administration of the school district and serves as treasurer to the Board. In accordance with the policies of the Board he/she shall provide professional leadership in the system and shall administer and supervise the schools in such a way as to secure improvement of educational opportunities. In addition to his/her statuatory duties, the Superintendent of Schools shall have general supervision of all acitivites under the control of the Board. He/she is expected to make such rules and give such instructions to school employees as may be necessary to carryout his/her responsibilities.

The Superintendent's job description shall serve as the basis for the evaluation of the Superintendent of Schools.

 

Adopted: August 28, 1990

Revised: September 13, 1994

Revised: March 21, 2000


EVALUATION PROCEDURE/CRITERIA

ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS

M.S.A.D. #9 - FARMINGTON, MAINE

I. Purpose of Evaluation

The purpose of the evaluation of the Assistant Superintendent is two-fold. First, it is necessary to determine the ability of the Assistant Superintendent to carry-on his assigned responsibilities. Secondly, the establishing and carrying-out of mutually agreed upon employment goals and objectives is important to the overall improvement and progress of the school system.

Only by open communication and mutual understanding of expectations can the Assistant Superintendent achieve the working relationship essential to the operation of a successful school system.

II. Goals & Objectives

A. The Board, Superintendent, and Assistant Superintendent shall meet annually, in January, in executive session for the purpose of establishing mutually agreed upon employment goals and objectives for the Assistant Superintendent for the upcoming year. The Assistant Superintendent shall submit his/her proposed goals and objectives to the Superintendent and Board in advance of the meeting.

B. The Board, Superintendent, and Assistant Superintendent shall meet in executive session at mid-year for the purpose of discussing progress toward meeting the employment goals and objectives established. Should circumstances warrant, the Board, Superintendent, and Assistant Superintendent may mutually agree to make changes in the employment goals and objectives established in January.

C. The Assistant Superintendent shall prepare a report to the Superintendent to be shared with the Board at the time of his/her annual evaluation in November. His/her report shall included his/her assessment of employment goals and objectives established the previous January.

III. Input by the Board in the Evaluation of the Assistant Superintendent

A. The Board shall be called to a special meeting by the Chair annually, in November, for the purpose of reviewing the evaluation of the Assistant Superintendent.

B. The Board shall, at that meeting, discuss with the Assistant Superintendent his/her performance in relation to criteria as defined by the Board. They shall also discuss the progress made toward meeting the employment goals and objectives established for the year. (Note: The purpose of establishing specific employment goals and objectives is intended to assist the Assistant Superintendent to establish priorities for action. Failure to accomplish certain employment goals and/or objectives is not intended, necessarily, to connote failure on the part of the Assistant Superintendent in his/her position.)

C. The Superintendent in conjunction with the administrator evaluation committee shall see that a written summary be prepared reflecting the evaluation of the Assistant Superintendent by the Superintendent and Board as a whole. A copy of the summary shall be signed by the Superintendent and discussed with the Assistant Superintendent who shall, in turn, sign it as an indication that he/she has read and discussed the document with the Superintendent. A copy of the summary shall be placed in the Assistant Superintendent's personnel file, a copy retained the Superintendent, and a copy provided for the Assistant Superintendent.

Any minority statements by individual Board members expressing disagreement with any portion of the Superintendent's evaluation of the Assistant Superintendent as summarized, may be included with the summary provided they are signed by the member(s) expressing such disagreement.

Criteria for Evaluating the Assistant Superintendent

The Assistant Superintendent assists the Superintendent in the overall administration of the school district and serves as the secretary to the Board. In accordance with the policies of the Board he/she shall provide professional leadership in the system and shall assist with the administration and supervision of the schools in such a way as to secure improvement of educational opportunities.

The Assistant Superintendent's job description shall serve as the basis for the evaluation of the Assistant Superintendent of Schools.

Adopted: September 13, 1994

Revised: March 21, 2000


File: CB

SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENT

 

The administration of the school system in all of its aspects shall be delegated to the Superintendent who shall carry out his/her administrative functions in accordance with the policies adopted by the Board and state and federal laws. The execution of all decisions made by the Board concerning the internal operation of the school system shall be delegated to the Superintendent.

Legal Reference: TITLE 20A MRSA Secs. 1001, 1053

Cross Reference: CHD - Development of Regulations

Adopted: September 1978

Reviewed: December 1994


JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title: Superintendent of Schools

Reports to: Board of Directors

Supervises: All employees of MSAD #9

 

Major Job Goals: To build the strongest educational program possible within the physical and financial limits of the District.

To assist the Board of Directors in establishing a District mission and vision.

To lead in the development of a comprehensive long range plan that addresses the areas of leadership, curriculum, instruction, staff development, and facilities management and maintenance.

 

Performance Responsibilities

I. LONG RANGE PLANNING

A. Develops and/or updates a long range plan for the District in the areas of leadership, curriculum, instruction, staff development, and facilities management and maintenance.

B. Assists the Board in the development and implementation of a District mission and vision.

C. Promotes the implementation of a site based management process at the building level.

II. SUPERVISION

A. Provides oversight for custodial, maintenance, transportation, and school nutrition programs.

B. Supervises the work of the Assistant Superintendent.

C. Provides direct supervision for the development, evaluation, and professional development of the administrative staff.

D. Exercises general supervision of school property and equipment.

E. Provides an efficient and appropriate organizational structure of the district.

III. FIDUCIARY RESPONSIBILITY

A. Directs the preparation of the annual budget for adoption by the Board.

B. Assumes ultimate responsibility for the fiscal management of the District.

C. Serves as Treasurer to the Board of Directors.

D. Maintains adequate school finance, business, property, school population, and student records.

E. Has the power to direct expenditures and purchases within the limits of the detailed budget.

IV. PERSONNEL

A. Nominates professional staff for Board election.

B. When authorized, selects a teacher for employment with later confirmation by the Board.

C. At any time may suspend an employee for cause, and report the case to the Board at their next regular meeting.

D. Has the authority to accept employee resignations on behalf of the Board and inform the Board at the next appropriate meeting.

E. Employs and discharges support staff in accordance with District policy, negotiated contracts, and State statute.

V. OTHER

A. Advises the Board on the need for new/revised policies and formulates policies for Board consideration.

B. Implements District policy and Board directives.

C. Takes appropriate action in any case or event not covered by policy and reports such action to the Board.

D. Serves in an advisory capacity to Board sub-committees.

E. Establishes a public relations program to keep the public informed of the activities and needs of the District.

F. Establishes such permanent or temporary councils, cabinets, and committees as she/he deems necessary for proper administration, advice or improvement of community understanding.

G. Assumes primary responsibility for school construction projects.

H. Works cooperatively with town officials, University personnel, and State Department of Education officials.

I. Keeps current with educational thought and practices by advanced study, attending conferences and workshops.

 

J. Performs such other tasks as may, from time to time, be assigned by the Board.

ADOPTED: December 14, 1993

REVISED: February 10, 1998


JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title: Assistant Superintendent of Schools

Reports to: Superintendent of Schools

Supervises: All employees of MSAD #9 at the direction of the Superintendent of Schools

Major Job Goals: To build the strongest educational program possible especially in the area of curriculum development and implementation within the physical and financial limits of the District.

Familiarize him/herself with the job responsibilities of the Superintendent of Schools so that in the absence of the Superintendent he/she would be able to serve in that capacity.

Performance Responsibilities

I. CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT

A. Develop, coordinate, and supervise the curriculum and instructional program.

B. Establish a staff development program that supports the curriculum work in the District.

C. Takes responsibility for student assessment and evaluation.

D. Provides direction and coordinates the District certification process.

II. SUPERVISION OF SPECIALTY AREAS

A. Provides direct supervision of the school nurse(s), gifted education, language minority programming, and coordinates migrant education, IASA, art, music, and physical education programs.

B. Coordinates staff development (budget, conference approval, programs, etc.)

C. Oversees the process for home schooling.

III. FIDUCIARY RESPONSIBILITY

A. Represents the administration in all formal contract negotiations and grievances related to negotiated contracts.

B. Serves as secretary to the Board of Directors.

C. Is knowledgeable of Federal and State reporting requirements and helps meet deadlines and file reports.

IV. ASSISTS THE SUPERINTENDENT

A. Directing, supervising, and evaluating the administration.

B. Promotes positive public relations.

C. Works on behalf of the Board of Directors in supporting, developing, and implementing policy and directives.

D. Shares responsibility for recruiting and employing professional and support staff to fill District vacancies.

 

E. Assists with the management, employment, and supervision of all support staff (custodians, educational technicians, hot lunch personnel, maintenance employees, secretaries, study hall monitors, transportation employees)

F. Assists with the development and implementation of long range plans for the District (educational programming, school construction, property and material acquisition)

G. Keeps current with educational thought and practices by advanced study, attending conferences and workshops.

H. Performs other tasks and assumes other responsibilities as the Superintendent may assign.

 

Adopted: November 23, 1993

Revise: February 10, 1998


File: CC

ADMINISTRATIVE ORGANIZATION PLAN

The Superintendent in administering this policy shall be guided by the knowledge that the Board values, as pre-eminently desirable in the schools of the District, the freest possible interchange of ideas outside the established framework of direct responsibility. Nothing provided herein shall be interpreted as intended to interrupt the free and open flow of ideas and assistance among the personnel at every level.

General Operations

The following principles shall govern the administrative operation of the school system:

A. Each school shall be encouraged to work out the educational program most appropriate for the students attending that school within the guidelines of the District.

B. The Office of the Superintendent shall have specific responsibility for overseeing the pattern and sequence of educational experiences provided for children from Kindergarten through grade 12.

C. Responsibility shall flow simply and clearly from students through teachers, principals, and the Superintendent to the Board of Directors.

D. Each member of the staff shall be told to whom he/she is responsible and for what functions.

E. Whenever possible, each member of the staff shall be made responsible to only one (1) immediate superior for only one (1) function.

F. Each staff member shall be told to whom he/she can appeal in case of disagreement with the person to whom he/she is responsible.

G. Each staff member shall be told to whom he/she can go for help in working out his/her own functions in the school program.

Line of Responsibility

Each employee in the District shall be responsible to the Board of Directors through the Superintendent.

All personnel shall refer matters requiring administrative action to the administrative officer immediately in charge of the area in which the problem arises.

Administrative officers shall refer such matters to the next higher authority when necessary.

All employees shall have the right to appeal any decision made by an administrative officer to the next higher authority and through appropriate successive steps to the Board of Directors.

Adopted: September 1978

Reviewed: December 1994


File: CC

ADMINISTRATIVE ORGANIZATION PLAN

The Superintendent in administering this policy shall be guided by the knowledge that the Board values, as pre-eminently desirable in the schools of the District, the freest possible interchange of ideas outside the established framework of direct responsibility. Nothing provided herein shall be interpreted as intended to interrupt the free and open flow of ideas and assistance among the personnel at every level.

General Operations

The following principles shall govern the administrative operation of the school system:

A. Each school shall be encouraged to work out the educational program most appropriate for the students attending that school within the guidelines of the District.

B. The Office of the Superintendent shall have specific responsibility for overseeing the pattern and sequence of educational experiences provided for children from Kindergarten through grade 12.

C. Responsibility shall flow simply and clearly from students through teachers, principals, and the Superintendent to the Board of Directors.

D. Each member of the staff shall be told to whom he/she is responsible and for what functions.

E. Whenever possible, each member of the staff shall be made responsible to only one (1) immediate superior for only one (1) function.

F. Each staff member shall be told to whom he/she can appeal in case of disagreement with the person to whom he/she is responsible.

G. Each staff member shall be told to whom he/she can go for help in working out his/her own functions in the school program.

Line of Responsibility

Each employee in the District shall be responsible to the Board of Directors through the Superintendent.

All personnel shall refer matters requiring administrative action to the administrative officer immediately in charge of the area in which the problem arises.

Administrative officers shall refer such matters to the next higher authority when necessary.

All employees shall have the right to appeal any decision made by an administrative officer to the next higher authority and through appropriate successive steps to the Board of Directors.

Adopted: September 1978

Reviewed: December 1994


File: CEA

 

EDUCATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE

 

 

An Education Advisory Committee (EAC) shall be established and shall hold its first meeting in the early fall. The purpose of the EAC shall be to strengthen the educational program through recommendations, research, implementation, and evaluation by the Superintendent and the MSAD No. 9 Education Association to best meet the needs of the students, the school, and the community. The EAC shall advise the Board on such matters as curriculum improvements, teaching techniques, instructional patterns, experimentation, extracurricular programs, in-service training and staff development, pupil testing, and evaluation, philosophy and educational goals of the district, teacher recruitment, research, educational specifications for buildings, and other related matters regarding the effective operation of the District.

 

 

Adopted: October 25, 1994


File: CEA-R

 

 

EDUCATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE REGULATION

 

 

Membership

The EAC shall consist of equal representation of members appointed by the Association.

 

Sub-Committee

The EAC shall be authorized to establish sub-committees for specific projects to allow for those who would be affected by EAC recommendations to have an opportunity to be involved.

 

Individual Initiative for Suggestions

Individual teachers, departments, grade levels, Association Committees, administrators, Board Members, students, parents, or other interested parties shall be encouraged to initiate ideas and suggestions for EAC projects.

 

Rules of Procedure

The EAC shall establish its own rules of procedure and shall provide for a rotating chairmanship. The chairperson shall be responsible for the arrangement and conduct of meetings.

 

Information

The EAC and its sub-committees shall be provided the access to available school district information as provided to the Association as specified in Article V, Section A of the Comprehensive Contract.

 

Reports

The Board may consider and study all written recommendations submitted by the EAC for action.

 

Budget

As of September 1, 1988, the Board shall provide adequate funds to the EAC to enable it to fulfill its purpose and responsibilities. The funds established shall go through the regular budget process.

 

Clerical Assistance

Adequate secretarial and clerical assistance shall be provided for the EAC.

 

 

Adopted: October 25, 1994


File: CF

SCHOOL BUILDING ADMINISTRATION

All building principals shall act as chief administrative officers for their own school buildings and grounds. They shall be responsible for and shall have the authority over the actions of students, professional and non-professional employees, visitors, and persons hired to perform special tasks.

Maintenance and cleaning of buildings and maintenance and repair of grounds shall be the responsibility of the District Director of Physical Plant. Building principals shall send all cleaning, maintenance, and repair requests to the District Director who will develop schedules and supervise the completion of scheduled work.

All principals shall keep the Superintendent informed of activities in their buildings by whatever means the Superintendent deems appropriate.

In all cases, the Superintendent shall be interpreted as the designated member of the central administrative staff.

Legal Reference: TITLE 20A MRSA SEC. 13019-B

Adopted: SEPTEMBER 1978


File: CHA

DEVELOPMENT OF REGULATIONS

The Board delegates to the Superintendent the function of specifying required actions and designing the detailed arrangements under which the schools will be operated. These rules and detailed arrangements shall constitute the administrative regulations governing the schools. They must be in every respect consistent with the policies adopted by the Board.

Cross Reference: CB - School Superintendent

Adopted: November 14, 1978

Reviewed: December 1994


 

FILE: CHD

 

ADMINISTRATION IN THE ABSENCE OF POLICY

In cases when action must be taken within the school system and the board has provided no guidelines for administrative action, the superintendent shall have the power to act.

His/her decisions, however, shall be subject to review by action of the board at its regular meeting. It shall be the duty of the superintendent to inform the board promptly of such action and the need for policy.

Cross Reference: CB _ SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENT

Adopted: September 1978 (as File: BFE)

Revised: January 25, 1994


MAINE SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE DISTRICT NO.9

 

REQUEST FOR ATTENDANCE AT PROFESSIONAL

CONFERENCE/MEETING/WORKSHOP

 

 

PERSON REQUESTING_______________________________ POSITION_______________________________

SCHOOL:____________________________________________________________________________________

NAME/SPONSOR:_____________________________________________________________________________

SUBJECT:____________________________________________________________________________________

LOCATION:_________________________________________DATE(S):_________________________________

ESTIMATED BUDGET: Travel:_________________________

Meals:_________________________

Housing:_______________________

Registration:____________________

Other: (Explain)_________________

TOTAL REQUEST: $___________________

DATE(S) A SUBSTITUTE WILL BE NEEDED:_____________________________________________________

DEPARTURE TIME:___________________________________________________________________________

My purpose in attending is:_______________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

 

_____________________________________________ ____________________________________

Signature of person making request Date request prepared

 

Revised 6/9/00

 

Of the dollars requested, the following amount is approved from:

______ This building’s conference budget: $________________________________________________

______ Grant: Grant Number: __________________________ $________________________________

______ Other:_______________________ $_________________________________________________

Substitute paid by the District: ______Grant: ______ Other: _____

Approved: ______________ Not approved: ___________________

Signed by Supervisor: _____________________________________

Signed by Grant Coordinator: _______________________________

TO BE COMPLETED BY SUPERINTENDENT:

Permission to Attend: Granted: ______ Denied: ________________

Signed: ______________________________________________ Date: __________________

TO BE COMPLETED FOLLOWING THE CONFERENCE/MEETING/WORKSHOP

The following section must be completed for REIMBURSEMENT OF EXPENSES.

RECEIPTS to cover expenses must accompany this request.

*Pay to:___________________________________________Date:____________________

List Expenses: Cost:

Miles______________________________ $______________________

Meals $______________________

Housing : $______________________

Registration: $______________________

Tolls: $______________________

Other_______________________________ $______________________

TOTAL REIMBURSEMENT: $______________________

 

Signature: ____________________________________________________ Date:_______________________

Supervisor: ___________________________________________________ Date:_______________________

Grant Coordinator:_____________________________________________ Date:_______________________

*If reimbursement should be made to more than one payee, please make a copy of this form for each additional payee.


File: DFF

 

INCOME FROM SCHOOL SALES AND SERVICES

Each request for the sale of books, magazines, food, and other materials must be cleared through the principal, and are not encouraged by the Board of Directors. Each request will be decided on its own merits.

The sale of food may only take place after lunch is served. The Director of the Hot Lunch Program must be notified at least three (3) (working) days in advance of the sale.

No student shall be required to purchase materials, and any sales which are approved shall be handled in such a way that no parent or student shall feel under any pressure to make purchases.

A simple running account is to be kept showing all money received for supplies sold to students.

All money received is to be turned in to the school treasurer or the principal for accounting per school system policies and practices.

Adopted: October 11, 1994

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: DJ

 

PURCHASING

The school unit, in its operation, must by necessity purchase many items. These purchases must be carried out in an orderly and responsible manner. Because the school unit is a public entity, purchases must also be made with the awareness of the public's "right to know." The following, therefore, seeks to implement a policy that takes into account these many facets.

Quotation _ Bid _ R.F.P.

For the purposes of this policy, a bid or request for a quotation will be considered as one and the same. A Request for Proposal (RFP) is a form of bid request in which the specifications of work to be performed or item to be rendered will be described by the submitting person or party.

Number of Bids and Advertising

In requesting bids, at least three will be routinely sought. These may be from local people, businesses, or firms or from those outside of town. Every effort will be made to identify local parties who may be interested in providing articles and services to the school unit and seek their bids. In the event that two or more parties cannot submit bids, then notices of the item or service sought will be advertised in the local paper(s).

Sole Source

There are exceptions to every rule, and there are times that only one supplier will be or can be used. If a class has standardized on a certain computer, for example, it would not be advantageous to seek bids from other manufacturers for an additional unit. Likewise, a certain product or line is clearly superior to others and the faculty and/or staff may feel that this is the only brand that is acceptable. In this case, a "sole source" purchase would be permissible. Sole source purchases may only be authorized by the superintendent or his/her designee.

Dollar Limit

The efficient operation of any enterprise requires that many purchases be made each day. To require that each and every one be placed out to bid would cause tremendous delays and inefficiencies. Therefore, purchases of $5,000 or more must be placed out to bid. Any items under $5,000 which may be of a controversial or political nature, i.e., new or expanded services, should also be placed out to bid. The grouping of smaller items, such as office supplies, to allow for them to be bid out should be encouraged.

Opening of Bids

The policy of the school unit will be to schedule the opening of bids at a convenient time during the day. The bids will be opened at a specified time after which no other bids will be entertained. The results will be tabulated and analyzed by the superintendent or his/her authorized representative.

There are times when it is mutually advantageous to submit bids or quotations jointly. Examples of this might be fuel oil, paper, or other items where large volumes bring reduced prices. The other parties or a spokesperson for all the parties in this case may place an item out for bid on behalf of the school unit. The bids, once opened, then are handled as are all others with a review and award.

Awarding of Bids

The awarding of the contract for the service or items to be purchased will be to the person, firm or company that provides the best service or item at the least cost to the school unit. All purchases of five thousand dollars ($5000) or more shall be awarded by the board. Bids of lesser amounts may also be awarded by the board when circumstances or board wishes dictate. Generally, the awarding of bids in payments up to five thousand dollars shall be delegated to the superintendent when the purchases are for replacement or consumable goods or services.

Bid Format

The school unit will use a bid cover sheet and format that outlines the procedures for submitting a bid.

Adopted: October 11, 1994

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


PURCHASING PROCEDURES - REGULATIONS

Purchasing for the District shall be under the supervision and control of the Superintendent of Schools.

The Superintendent shall determine if price quotes shall be solicited for comparison or if bids shall be requested.

If bids are requested, the Superintendent shall advertise in the Franklin Journal, the Lewiston Sun and the Waterville Sentinel.

All bids shall be in writing, sealed and marked "BID - NOT TO BE OPENED UNTIL (date)", and filed with the Office of the Superintendent of Schools until opening time.

Bids shall be awarded to the low bidder unless:

a. A definite quality differentiation exists between the low bid item and the higher bid item;

b. The low bid item would create problems in operation;

c. Maintenance costs and/or availability of maintenance would create a major problem should the low bid item be accepted; and/or

d. The low bid item is submitted by an out of District vendor and the difference between the out of District vendor's price is not large enough to constitute a significant savings for the District.

On major items, the results of the bids shall be compiled and submitted to the Board of Directors for a decision.

On minor items, the Superintendent of Schools or his/her Assistant shall award bids based upon this policy. Any vendor may appeal the superintendent's decision to the Board of Directors of MSAD No. 9.

Purchases from vendors within MSAD No. 9 shall be encouraged. Administrators shall use the following guidelines in conjunction with the above bid criteria in awarding/accepting bids/quotes that include local vendors who do not present the lowest bid/quote:

If the total bid or quote is $2500 or less a local vendor will receive preference if their bid/quote is within ten (10) percent of the lowest bid/quote by an out-of-district vendor;

If the total bid or quote is between $2501 and $5000 then a local vendor's bid must be within $250 of the lowest bid/quote of an out-of-district vendor;

If the total bid or quote is over $5001 then the award will be made to the lowest bidder regardless of their location, provided the criteria listed above (a.-d.) about bidding are applicable.

Adopted: October 4, 1978

Revised: October 25, 1994

Revised: March 21, 2000

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: DLA

PAYDAY SCHEDULES

Teachers' salaries shall be paid between the first of September and the last of August in twenty-six (26) equal installments. Friday is established as the payday unless unusual circumstances exist (holiday falling on Friday, etc.).

A teacher leaving during the year will be paid on the basis of the actual number of days taught.

Similarly, if a teacher is hired to start work during the school year, he/she will be paid on a basis of the actual days for which he/she has contracted. (See Contractual Agreement between MSAD No. 9 and the MSAD No. 9 Education Association.)

Adopted: September 1978

Reviewed: December 1994

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


 

File: DLB

 

TAX SHELTERED ANNUITIES

 

So that employees may obtain the benefit of tax sheltered annuities, the Board hereby authorizes the adoption of a Tax Sheltered Annuity Plan. The Superintendent is authorized to sign a written Tax Sheltered Annuity Plan (the "Plan") on behalf of the Board. The Plan shall provide that:

A. Any employee may participate in the Tax Sheltered Annuity Plan, subject to the limitations of the Plan and the Internal Revenue Code.

B. Any agent or agency wishing to sell tax sheltered annuities to employees must file with the Superintendent evidence of its license to sell such annuities in the State of Maine.

C. Only those providers of annuities who agree to comply with the terms of the Plan shall be permitted to participate as an annuity provider under the Tax Sheltered Annuity Plan. In accordance with the Plan, the Board retains the right to limit the number of annuity providers authorized to sell annuities to employees.

An agent must present evidence of intent from three or more employees wishing to enroll in any plan not already set up with the district. (Exceptions will be granted only with the permission of the Superintendent and only in approved cases where any employee is attempting to transfer a plan in which s/he is already enrolled at the time of hire.)

D. At no time will solicitation by providers of tax sheltered annuities be permitted in school buildings or on school property during regular school hours.

E. There will be only two open months in each calendar year for changes in the programs of individuals. Transactions must be completed during one of those two months. Changes will not be made at other times or in other months of the year. The two months are September and February.

Adopted: December 14, 1999

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: DL-R

DISTRICT CREDIT CARD USE

 

Use of the MSAD No. 9 credit card is a restricted privilege and subject to a number of understandings. Failure on the part of anyone to abide by these understandings will be sufficient cause to cease allowing the use of the card.

A. Only business-necessitated expenses may be charged to the card. Personal expenses should not be charged; they should be paid for by the person directly. Some examples are alcoholic beverages, personal telephone calls to home or elsewhere, laundry and dry cleaning, or personal purchases of any type. This is a sample list and is not intended to be an exhaustive definition.

B. Moderation in choice of expenses is expected. For example, when choosing an eating establishment or making selections from a menu, a good rule of thumb is, "Would I be willing to pay this amount from my own pocket?" If the answer is negative, then MSAD No. 9 should not be expected to pay that much either.

C. The credit card may not be used without prior signed authorization from either the Superintendent or the Assistant Superintendent.

D. Expenses incurred in the line of business are tax exempt. When you use the credit card, tell the vendor that you are tax exempt and show them the District name on the card. Some vendors put the tax into the total and put it on the sale line as a single total. Check to be sure that sales tax is not put on the card in any way. This is especially difficult in gasoline purchases and in some restaurants.

E. Tips should not be charged on the credit card in excess of fifteen percent (15%). Amounts greater than fifteen percent should come from the card user's pocket.

Adopted: January 7, 1988

Reviewed: November 30, 1994

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: DM

 

CASH IN SCHOOL BUILDINGS

No money shall be kept overnight in schools except in a locked depository that the principal has made available for the purpose.

In the event that money is stolen from desks or cabinets or elsewhere in the school buildings, the board cannot be held liable for the loss. Funds left in designated depositories will be insured.

Adopted: October 11, 1994

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: DN

SCHOOL PROPERTIES DISPOSAL PROCEDURE

The Superintendent shall have the authority to dispose of items that have no saleable value by discarding those items.

Items which have a value in excess of $1,000.00 shall be excluded from this policy and the disposal of these items shall be the province of the Board of Directors.

Legal Reference: Title 20A MRSA Sec. 4103 ET SEQ.

Adopted: September 1978

Reviewed: December 1994

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: DNA

 

Capital Assets and Other Assets Policy

This policy established the minimum cost value (capitalization amount) that shall be used to determine the capital assets (land, buildings, vehicles, and equipment) that are to be recorded in the General Asset Account Group of the MSAD #9 Financial statement.

This policy also addresses other assets that shall be individually accounted for, but will not be included in the General Fixed Asset Account Group.

Capital Assets

Detailed records shall be maintained for all capital assets that cost $2,000 or more per item. These assets generally have a useful life of 3 years or more.

Other Assets

Detail records shall be maintained for all items (with individual costs of less than $2,000 and more than $100) that should be safeguarded from loss. The MSAD #9 Business Office in consultation with District auditors shall determine the items that are to be considered as "other assets."

Inventory Control

A physical inventory of all capital assets and other assets shall be taken at least once a year. A summary of the results of the physical inventory shall be reported to the Board of Directors.

Adopted: April 3, 2001

Reviewed: January 22, 2002

Cross reference: School Properties Disposal Procedures DN


File: DO

TRUST FUNDS

It is the intent of the Board of Directors to attract and encourage grants and special sums of money from public and private sources which are to be used for certain purposes beneficial to the district and its students. In receiving such sums of money or property, the board recognizes its fiduciary responsibility for ensuring that the funds are expended for the purposes agreed upon, safeguarding of assets, and applying proper accounting principles in recording and reporting such transactions.

The Board will accept money or other property for trust funds, which in the judgment of the Board will be beneficial to the district and its students. Trust funds established by the Board shall be classified as non_expendable trust funds or expendable trust funds as may apply The assets of the respective funds may only be used or expended as prescribed in the Trust Fund Agreement.

All requests for establishment of trust funds shall be reviewed by the Business Administrator and approved by the Superintendent of Schools. Except for pre-existing trust funds, there shall exist no trust fund agreement within the district, without formal approval of the Superintendent of Schools, Furthermore, the district or any of it's employees shall not accept money or other assets far establishment of a trust fund without approval.

The individual designated by the Superintendent of Schools shall be responsible for the financial administration, accounting and recording of trust fund transactions. The respective appointed individual shall be responsible for administering the process for selecting the award recipients, in accordance with the Trust Fund Agreement.

It is the Policy of the Board to centralize and consolidate the accounting and cash management of trust fund assets It is the Board's intent to maximize interest earnings, for trust funds, through the use of Certificates of Deposit and similar safe, and prudent deposits in interest bearing accounts, in institutions, who shall fully insure such deposits The designated individual is responsible for the prudent management of trust fund investments.

DEFINITIONS:

1. Expendable Trust Fund: An expendable trust is created by the Board of Directors to account for money and other property that is received by a school system which is to be held in trust and is to be used in accordance with the terms of a trust agreement. All assets of an expendable trust fund may be used, and thus expended, to carry out the objectives of the trust agreement which generally restricts the purpose for which assets of the expendable fund may be used.

2. Limited-Life Trust: A non_expendable trust which continues its operation for a time specified by the trust agreement. At the expiration of the time prescribed, the non_expendable trust becomes an expendable trust, thereby permitting the assets of the fund to be used, distributed, or expended for the purposes prescribed by the trust agreement.

3. Perpetual Trust: A non-expendable trust which by its terms, is to continue in operation as long as the principal amount is retained intact or as long as the school system continues its operations.

4. Non_Expendable Trust Fund: A non_expendable trust fund is created by the Board of Directors to account for money and/or property received by a school system, the principal amount of which is to be retained intact, the income of which is restricted by a trust agreement.

5 Trust Agreement: Written agreement between donor and unit which prescribes, the purpose of the trust, restrictions placed upon money or property, life of the trust and other information pertinent to carrying out the wishes of the donor.

6. Trust Fund Principal: The amount of the original contribution in establishing a trust fund.

 

Approved: June 17, 1997

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


Date: MSAD No. 9 FILE: DO-E

REQUEST FOR ESTABLISHMENT OF A TRUST FUND

Name(s) of Contributor(s)

Name of Trust Fund

School Identified

Trust Fund Principal

Individual Responsible

Classification of Trust Fund Principal Non_Expendable

Expendable

Term of Trust Fund Perpetual

 

Limited_Life

If Limited Life Specify Expiration Date:

TRUST FUND AGREEMENT

Purpose:

 

Assets are restricted and may only be expanded as follows:
       In the event of discontinuance of a school or consolidation of the MSAD No.9 school system, or similar event describe how     the assets of The Fund should be disposed:

I agree to the above terms and conditions, and I understand that it is the policy of the Board of Directors to maximize interest earnings for trust funds through the Purchase of Certificates of Deposit and similar safe and prudent deposits in interest bearing account, in institutions who shall fully insure, or collateralize such deposits. I also understand that in order to maximize interest earnings and to centralize accounting function, the district may use a cash_pool approach in managing the assets and for distributing interest earnings.

Signature of Contributor(s)

 

Mailing Address

 

 

Telephone Number

 

 

Reviewed By:

(Business Administrator) (Date)

 

Approved By:

(Superintendent) (Date)

 

Approved: June 17, 1997

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: EBAA

REPORTING OF HAZARDS

In order to comply with Maine statute on Chemical Substance Identification, it will be the policy of MSAD No. 9 to have on hand and readily available for inspection all Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) for all substances outlined in the statute; to obtain all MSDSs for all products when purchased; and to introduce, maintain, and periodically update a documented training program in accordance with the statute.

NOTE: See regulation EBAA-R for implementation procedures for this policy.

Legal Reference: Title 26 MRSA Sec. 1709 ET SEQ.

Cross Reference: EBAA-R - Reporting of Hazards - Regulation

Adopted: October 28, 1986

Reviewed: December 1994

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: EBAA-R

REPORTING OF HAZARDS

This policy was developed for MSAD No. 9 to assure that the District is in compliance with Chapter 22 Title 26 Maine Revised Statutes Annotated, 1984 Public Law Chapter 826 Chemical Substance Identification Law.

It will be the policy of MSAD No. 9 to have on hand and readily available for inspection all Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) for all substances outlined by this act.

A. The MSDS shall be available to any employee during regular working hours.

B. A copy of the MSDS shall be in plain sight at any work station or storage area where substances are found.

It will be the policy of MSAD No. 9 to obtain all MSDSs for all products when purchased.

A. If the item or substance is new to MSAD No. 9, then the MSDS will be reviewed before the substance is allowed in the workplace.

B. If warranted by the review of the MSDS, all employees concerned will be retrained accordingly.

C. MSAD No. 9 will update all MSDSs on an annual basis.

It will be the policy of MSAD No. 9 to introduce, maintain and periodically update a documented training program in accordance with the Chemical Substance Identification Law.

The information and training program shall include the following:

A. Explain the provision of the law in detail;

B. Identify any workplace where hazardous chemicals or substances are present;

C. Describe methods of detecting the presence or release of a hazardous chemical in the work area;

D. Describe and explain the physical health hazards and any potential health hazards in the workplace;

E. Explain where and the availability of written communications and related documents concerning hazardous substances including how to read a MSDS;

F. Describe and explain measures employees can take to protect themselves from these hazards, including the purpose, proper use and limitation of personal protective equipment;

G. Explain the labeling system and the MSDS; and,

H. Describe and explain all emergency procedures.

It will be required by all custodians of MSAD No. 9 to attend all training programs.

 

Documentation of attendance will be required and maintained in the Office of the Director of Physical Plant.

Documentation of each training seminar will also be required and maintained in the Office of the Director of Physical Plant.

All chemicals or substances that fall within the guidelines of Chapter 22 will be labeled as required, containers not properly labeled will not be allowed din the workplace until such time as labels are placed on them.

All employees of MSAD No. 9 will be given a copy of the Maine Law, a list of hazardous chemical substances used in MSAD No. 9, and a copy of this policy.

All new employees of MSAD No. 9 will be provided training in the identification of and protection from hazardous chemicals.

When it becomes necessary to dispose of dangerous chemicals, MSAD No. 9 will do so through an agency which has been licensed by the State to remove and dispose of chemicals.

When it becomes necessary to store chemicals awaiting their removal from the District, storage shall be in an approved tank or building.

Legal Reference: Title 26 MRSA Sec. 1709 ET SEQ.

Cross Reference: EBAA - Reporting of Hazards

Adopted: October 28, 1986

Reviewed: December 1994

Revised: March 21, 2000

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: EBCB

 

FIRE DRILLS

In order to protect the health and safety of students and staff and in compliance with the provisions of the Life Safety Code, schools at all levels, K_12, are required to hold two fire drills during the first two weeks of school. Schools housing grades K_4 will hold an additional eight fire drills during the year; schools housing grades 5_8 an additional six fire drills; and schools housing grades 9_12 an additional four fire drills. Schools housing any combinations of these grade levels will hold the additional number of fire drills required of the lowest grade level within the span. Results shall be recorded and deficiencies noted and corrected.

Each building principal, in cooperation with local fire officials, will develop procedures designed to accomplish the evacuation of school buildings as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Principals shall keep a record of all fire drills held in their schools, stating the date and time the drill was held and the time required for evacuation of the building. This information will be reported to the superintendent or his/her designee after each drill.

Staff members will receive an annual orientation to this procedure, and the fire drill procedure will be prominently displayed in each classroom. At the beginning of each school year, principals will ensure that each teacher acquaints the students under his/her care with the designated evacuation routes.

Legal Reference: MRSA CHAP. 125.17, B

Adopted: October 11, 1994

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


 

EBCC

Bomb Threats/Acts of Terrorism

The Board of Directors takes an extremely dim view of any action by any person that seriously disrupts or threatens to disrupt the educational process. Of particular concern to the Board is the making of a threat that a bomb or other explosive device has been placed in a school.

Therefore, the Board directs that any and all legal remedies and actions be taken against any person apprehended and proven to have made such a threat.

 

Approved: October 8, 1996

Revised: February 29, 2000

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: EBCC-E1

BOMB THREAT CALLS

Time call received ___________ Time caller hung up ______________

Exact words of person calling:

 

IMPORTANT DO NOT HANG UP TELEPHONE DO NOT PUT CALL ON HOLD

1. Call the Superintendent 778-6571 If cannot be reached

Call the Assistant Superintendent 778-6571

 

2. In the Farmington Area 911 (police) All other areas 778-2680 or (800) 492-1020 (Sheriff) then:

Questions to ask:

1. When is the bomb going to explode?

2. Where is the bomb right now?

3. What kind of bomb is it?

4. What does it look like?

5. Why did you place the bomb?

Description of callers voice:

Male ___ Female ___ Middle age ___ Old ___

Tone of voice ____________________ Accent __________________

Is voice familiar? _______ if so, who does it sound like _________

__________________________________________________________________

Person receiving call ____________________________________________

Date _________________________ Time ______________________________

 

 

Approved: October 8, 1996

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


 

 

Bomb Threats

Upon receipt of a bomb threat, the recipient will:

 

A. Immediately notify the Superintendent or the Assistant Superintendent or local police; and

B. Complete the MSAD #9 District Information Form.

 

Central Office Personnel

A. Empty the building if appropriate.

B. Notify the local police.

C. In conjunction with the local police officials, organize a search of the plant with District personnel and local police.

D. Upon completing the search of the plant or a section of the plant, evaluate the circumstances and make a decision, in conjunction with police officials, on when the building may be re-occupied.

General

A. No student or staff member will be required to remain in a building following a bomb threat (24 hours).

B. Security may be placed on a building which has been searched following a bomb threat to screen all people entering the building.

C. It shall be the responsibility of the Central Office Administrators to see that the building is emptied as rapidly as possible.

D. School officials will make arrangements for re-locating and educating the students for the remainder of that school day.

E. It is the intent of the Board of Directors, if school must be dismissed, to have students make up instructional time missed due to bomb threats. Time missed will be made up at the end of the school year.

F. School officials, in consultation with the local police official in charge, will determine how soon the building may be re-occupied. This may result in the cancellation of after-school activities.

G. School officials will work closely with police officials on the search, investigation, and prosecution of those responsible for bomb threats.

The Call

A. Be sure to listen for background noise: traffic, music, etc.

B. Try to determine the sex and age of the caller.

C. Try to determine if the voice sounds natural or is the person attempting to disguise the voice.

D. Jot down the exact words that are used.

E. Record the exact time of the call.

Response

A. Attempt to have the caller respond to questions.

B. Ask specifically where the bomb is located.

C. Ask the caller to describe the bomb.

Reporting

Immediately report the phone call by attempting to reach the following people:

1st - Superintendent of Schools

2nd - Assistant Superintendent of Schools

3rd - Police Department

Adopted: March 24, 1986

Revised: October 8, 1996

Revised: February 29, 2000

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: ECAB

 

ACCESS TO BUILDINGS

 

Summer Use by Athletic Teams and Individuals

 

It is the desire of MSAD No. 9 to allow the use of buildings and grounds for athletic teams and individuals during the summer, whenever possible. It must also be understood that maintenance personnel use the summer months to ready buildings and grounds for the upcoming school year. Arrangements for the use of buildings and grounds by athletic teams and individuals must be done in coordination with these maintenance schedules.

 

A. All requests for summer usage must be done through the Office of the Director of Physical Plant, with approval granted by the appropriate principal and the Superintendent.

B. All organizations and/or individuals must obtain and fill out a Buildings and Grounds Usage Form.

C. Teams and individuals using buildings and grounds during the summer must turn in a written schedule of their activities to the Director of Physical Plant, building principal, and to the Athletic Director.

D. All summer teams and individual programs shall be self-supporting. The District WILL NOT be financially responsible (this DOES NOT include interscholastic football, soccer, cross country, golf, and cheering whose practice seasons begin in late August).

E. All teams and individual organizations which charge registration fees shall have those fees paid directly to the Athletic Department of MSAD No. 9. Summer coach's salaries will be paid by the Athletic Department of MSAD No. 9 from these registration fees. Under these circumstances, the MSAD No. 9 liability policy is in force.

F. Teams and individuals who charge registration fees and/or teams and individuals who have coaches who are paid salaries outside of MSAD No. 9 will be responsible for paying a $100 buildings and grounds usage fee to cover lights, hot water, maintenance, facilities care, etc.. This $100 fee will be taken from the individual registration fees. Where there is NOT a registration fee but the coach is still paid a salary from sources outside of MSAD No. 9, the responsibility for the buildings and grounds usage fee lies with THAT coach or organization.

G. Teams and individuals who DO NOT have registration fees and who have coaches who receive NO salary WILL NOT be required to pay a buildings and grounds usage fee. These particular teams and individuals will be required to present written proof of liability coverage (i.e., Farmington Recreation Department Summer Softball, Wilton Recreation Programs, etc.).

 

Adopted: May 24, 1988

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: ECABA

 

Staff Identification Procedures

In order to provide quick and accurate identification of school district employees, particularly when those individuals are working in buildings and/or sites different from a primary assignment area, there is a need to use an employee identification card system. The card system is also needed to assist parents and other visitors to school locations in identifying school employees. In certain locations, there is a need to use cards for security purposes.

The photo identification card system, using a badge, will serve as an instant identification system for persons in multi-school assignments, such as administrators, supervisors, plant operations, maintenance, food service, transportation, itinerants, etc.

Identification cards will be prepared for every school district employee. Employees will display the identification card at all times when performing duties for the school system to show identification as a school employee.

A badge system, using a card with appropriate designation, but without photograph, will be used for visitors to schools and for substitutes and /or temporary employees.

Appropriate equipment will be maintained in the central office where cards will be prepared when new employees are hired.

Building administrators and/or supervisors are requested to take necessary action to make all staff members aware of the identification card system requirement, and to cooperate with the central office in scheduling photo sessions for all school district employees.

Identification cards are the property of the school district and are issued to persons only during the time of their employment. Upon leaving the employment of the district, the card must be returned to the school district before final salary payment is received.

Adopted: October 23, 2001

Reviewed: January 22, 2002

Implementation date of December 1, 2001


File: ECDA

TRAFFIC AND PARKING CONTROLS

Overnight Parking - Towing

The appropriate MSAD No. 9 staff are authorized to arrange for the towing of vehicles parked on any MSAD No. 9 property between the hours of 12:01 a.m. and 6:00 a.m., or at any other time that such vehicles present a hazard for emergency vehicles or for necessary snow plowing. Vehicles towed from MSAD No. 9 premises shall be towed at the expense of the owner of the vehicle and MSAD No. 9 shall assume no liability.

This policy shall be effective August 1, 1991. Appropriate steps shall be taken to notify employees and student drivers of this policy. However, lack of knowledge of this policy shall not extend any liability of MSAD No. 9.

Adopted: March 12, 1991

Reviewed: December 1994

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: EDE

 

WASTE MANAGEMENT AND RECYCLING

Resource conservation is to be made an integral part of the physical operation of the school system and of the school curriculum. The practice of discarding materials used in school facilities is wasteful of natural resources, energy and money. It is also the function of the schools to set an example of stewardship of our natural resources and to develop responsible citizenship in our students.

It shall be the policy to implement the following actions:

A. The school system will integrate the concept of resource conservation, including waste reduction and recycling, into the environmental education curriculum at all levels.

B. The amount of waste of consumable materials is to be decreased by:

1. Reduction of the consumption of consumable materials wherever possible;

2. Full use of all materials prior to disposal; and

3. Minimizing of the use of nonbiodegradable products, wherever possible.

C. The school system will cooperate with, and participate in, recycling efforts being made by the local and state governments. As systems for the recovering of waste and recycling are developed, the school system will participate by appropriately separating and allowing recovery of recyclable waste products.

D. The school system will purchase, where financially viable, recycled products and will also encourage suppliers, both private and public, to make recyclable products and unbleached paper products available for purchase by public schools.

E. Representatives of the school system will actively advocate, where appropriate, for resource conservation practices to be adopted at local, regional and state levels.

Adopted: October 11, 1994

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


 

STUDENT TRANSPORTATION SERVICES

 

Bus Transportation Between Home and School Within the District

 

School buses shall be purchased, operated and maintained by MSAD No. 9 for the transportation of eligible resident children located within the District. Smaller vehicles may be substituted for buses for reasons of economy or more efficient operation. These buses shall all be operated within the limits of the laws of the State of Maine.

 

Eligible riders, as defined by the Board of Directors, are children attending public schools and residing within the boundaries of MSAD No. 9.

 

Transportation privileges may be allowed on the following criteria:

A. Elementary students (K-6) are entitled to transportation between home and school within the District if they live over one-half (1/2) mile from the school to which they are assigned. However, these same students may be required to walk up to one-half (1/2) mile to a regularly established school bus route or pre-designated bus pick-up before boarding the bus.

 

B. Middle (7-8) and Secondary students (9-12) are entitled to transportation between home and school within the District if they live over one (1) mile from the school to which they are assigned. However, these same students may be required to walk up to one (1) mile to a regularly established school bus route or pre-designated bus pick-up before boarding the bus.

 

The above walking limits do not apply within trailer parks and housing developments. MSAD NO. 9 will service trailer parks and housing developments at the entrance only, regardless of the mileage walked from within to the entrance. The entrance is the measure point in regards to the walking policy of the District.

 

It is recognized that in isolated cases it may be necessary for a student to walk beyond the established distances because of road conditions that will not permit a bus to service the student within the established distances.

 

Exceptions to the above distances shall be made for the following reasons only:

A. Health - at the request of a medical or osteopathic physician. Exceptions to the established walking distances may be made only in the case of a child with a temporary or permanent physical handicapping condition.

B. Hazardous Walking Conditions - hazardous walking conditions shall be defined as those which would place a child of a given age in a situation of more than normal or average danger. Age shall be considered in making this determination. In general, hazardous conditions would involve walking on heavily traveled or high speed roads or streets where no sidewalks are available or crossing heavily traveled or high speed streets or roads where no crossing guides or crossing lights are available or other unique circumstances.

 

Subject to the prior claim of resident pupils to transportation service, a pupil not a legal resident or not residing within the District, but attending a District school, may be transported by District buses over regularly established bus routes by obtaining permission from the Superintendent of Schools. Such permission will be granted only if the student, either by walking or by other modes of transportation, can be located for pick-up within the boundaries of the District. Such permission may also be terminated at will in the event that such permission of bus privileges to non-resident pupils causes overloading of a bus.

 

Students Who Are Serviced at Child Care Locations

 

Each bus student will be assigned to an authorized bus stop. The District will establish the stop near the residence of the child or near the child care location, whichever is requested by the parent. The stop will be within the walking distance as defined in this policy and will be limited to authorized stops. Only one (1) stop shall be authorized for each student and that stop shall be considered as permanent until changed by the Transportation Supervisor.

 

A. A parent shall work with the Transportation Supervisor when a change in the authorized stop location is necessary. When a child care need exists, the School Department may consider no more that two (2) authorized stops for a child; however, the A.M. stop and the P.M. stop must remain constant.

 

B. The District will accept requests to change the assigned authorized stop only under the following conditions:

 

1. Change in legal residence; and/or,

2. Change in child care location.

 

Bus drivers shall pick up only at scheduled stops; they shall not admit students not assigned to that particular bus. Drivers are required not to exceed the legal bus capacity.

 

Students shall ride only on assigned buses. At the close of school they shall be permitted to disembark at other points or to ride other buses only after presenting the bus driver with a note written by the parent and approved by the building principal.

 

Notes will only be accepted to meet special needs of students. They will be honored only when bus seating is available. A note must be written by the parent and approved by the principal for each occurrence. Notes written to cover extended periods of time will not be considered.

 

Supervision of riders on buses will be the prime responsibility of the bus driver. Discipline problems shall be directly reported to the Transportation Supervisor and the principal of the school the child attends. The principal and the Transportation Supervisor, on the basis of the bus driver's report and after investigation, will then administer what in their opinion is the measure of disciplinary action necessary. The Transportation Supervisor may deny bus privileges to a bus student after informing the student's parents, the principal, and the bus driver of his proposed action. Warning notices will be sent to parents by the Transportation Supervisor to inform them that continued irregular behavior on school buses by their children will result in the termination of their privilege to ride the District buses.

 

If in the best judgment of the driver and the Transportation Supervisor, immediate action should be taken to protect the health and safety of the passengers, they shall be authorized to do so.

 

Shuttle Service

 

A shuttle system will be established in MSAD No. 9 according to the following:

 

A. There will be one (1) trip per day, except Fridays.

 

B. Time for the trip will be established by the Transportation Supervisor, after consulting with the principals concerning program demand.

 

C. All requests from schools will come through the principals. Seasonally, principals will be notified when request are due.

 

D. If there are no pupils to be transported from a particular town, the bus will not go to that town even though a request has been made by that director.

 

Legal Reference: TITLE 20A MRSA Sec. 5401

 

Adopted: Prior to 1988

Revised: January 10, 1995

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: EEAE

STUDENT TRANSPORTATION IN PRIVATE VEHICLES

 

Athletic Events / Field Trips

 

All team members representing MSAD No.9 in interscholastic competition or attending MSAD No.9 sponsored events must be transported to and from the site of the event on MSAD No.9 vehicles except under the following circumstances :

 

A: A student may return with the student's parent or guardian if the coach has received written permission from that parent/ guardian; or,

 

B: A student may be transported in a private vehicle on field trips when fewer than

eight (8) students are involved and all insurance requirements are met,

 

C: In the event of an unusual or special situation, a student may ride with persons

other than the parent or guardian. Written permission must be obtained and approved by the Athletic Director or Principal. They shall approve only those situations where special circumstances exist or a hardship is avoided through approval process.

 

 

It is the intent of the District to move students to and from activities on MSAD No 9 vehicles whenever practical.

 

Adopted: March 25, 1987

Revised: December 1994

Revised: October 13, 1998

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: EEAEAA

DRUG AND ALCOHOL TESTING OF SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS

In an effort to prevent accidents and injuries resulting from the misuse of alcohol and controlled substances by school bus drivers, MSAD No. 9 will operate a drug and alcohol testing program in accordance with federal and state laws and regulations.

School bus drivers are prohibited from the use of alcohol or controlled substances that may affect performance of their jobs. Such prohibitions include use on the job, use during the four (4) hours before performing a safety-sensitive function, having prohibited blood alcohol levels while driving, and use during eight (8) hours following an accident unless testing has been completed before that time.

Drivers shall be subject to testing according to federal regulations in the following circumstances: pre-employment (but post offer)/per-duty, reasonable suspicion, random, post accident, return to duty and follow-up testing. Refusal to take a post accident, random, reasonable suspicion, or follow-up test is to be treated as a positive result. Refusal to submit to a pre-employment or return-to-duty test will result in the driver's being refused employment or not being returned to duty.

Alcohol testing will be conducted just before, during, or just after the performance of a safety-sensitive function. An approved breath test shall be used for alcohol testing.

In testing for controlled substance, urine sample collection and analysis will be conducted by a laboratory approved by the U.S. Department of Human Services. Random drug testing may be conducted at any item that the driver is at work.

In the event of a positive test result, the driver shall be removed immediately from performance of any safety-sensitive function. In order to be reinstated, if at all, an employee must undergo an evaluation by a substance abuse professional, comply with any rehabilitation required, and undergo a return-to-duty test with negative results. A reinstated driver is subject to unannounced follow-up tests six (6) times in the first twelve months following the return to work.

As required under Maine law, MSAD No. 9, having more that twenty full-time employees, shall pay 50% of uninsured costs for rehabilitation. In cases where it is needed, MSAD No. 9 will assist the employee in paying his/her share of the uninsured costs through a payroll deduction plan.

Records will be maintained in strict confidence by MSAD No. 9 in a secure location with controlled access. Drivers may receive copies of their records upon written request. Records may be made available to subsequent employers only as expressly requested in writing by the employee.

All school bus drivers will be provided information regarding drug and alcohol use and abuse, testing requirements, copies of MSAD No. 9's relevant policies, and assistance available for those with substance abuse problems.

The Superintendent shall be responsible for the development of administrative regulations to implement this policy.

Legal Reference:

Title 26 MRSA Sec. 681.8.B

Title 26 MRSA Sec. 685.2.C(1)

49 U.S.C. Sec. 2717 ET SEQ. (Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act of 1991)

49 C.F.R. Part 40 (Procedures for Transportation Workplace Drug and Alcohol Testing Programs)

49 C.F.R. Part 382 (Controlled Substance and Alcohol Use and Testing)

49 C.F.R. Part 391 (Qualification of Drivers)

Adopted: March 14, 1995

Revised: March 21, 2000

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: EEAEF

VIDEO CAMERAS ON TRANSPORTATION VEHICLES

The Board recognizes MSAD No. 9's continuing responsibility to maintain order on school transportation vehicles to ensure the safety of staff and students. After carefully balancing the need for discipline and safety with student's interests in privacy, the Board supports the use of video cameras on school transportation vehicles. In an effort to reduce student behavior violations, the cameras may be used to monitor student behavior during transport to and from school and extracurricular activities.

When the resulting video tapes are used as a basis for discipline, parents/guardians will be notified and given the opportunity to view the tape of their child. Students in violation of school discipline/conduct codes shall be dealt with in accordance with established Board policy, administrative regulations, and established school practices.

Notice of use of video cameras for disciplinary purpose in school transportation vehicles will be provided all students, parents and staff in appropriate handbooks on an annual basis. Moreover, notice that video observation may take place will be posted in each transportation vehicle.

Any recording used in a disciplinary proceeding will be retained as part of a student's disciplinary record, being dispose of as other such documentation except when special circumstances warrant longer retention. In regard to such video recordings, MSAD No. 9 will comply with all applicable provisions of state and federal law concerning student records.

The Superintendent will be responsible for the development of regulations regarding review of video recordings made on school transportation vehicles. Such regulations will provide for procedures for review when significant violations of the student conduct code occur. Regulations will also address the retention of video tapes, the security of video cameras and recordings, specifying the school official(s) to be responsible for purchase, installation, maintenance, and replacement of equipment, scheduling and placement of cameras on transportation vehicles, requests for viewing and any necessary follow-up.

Adopted: March 14, 1995

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: EEA-R

 

STUDENT TRANSPORTATION SERVICES - REGULATIONS

 

Rules and procedures for Organization of the Shuttle Bus Run:

 

A. Each school office will have a sign-up period for the activity at least one (1) week before the activity begins. The sign-up sheet will include the following information:

 

Name, town, bus number (morning), whether the pupil plans to utilize the shuttle or furnish own transportation.

 

B. Pupils from all towns in the District will be provided an opportunity to sign up for service on a daily basis in each school office.

 

1. Daily reminders will be given with morning announcements that sign up is necessary.

 

2. By 1:00 p.m. the bus garage will be notified of the number from each of the towns who need transportation on that day.

 

3. The Transportation Supervisor will be notified immediately of any change in schedule or practices.

 

4. Only pupils participating in school activities or who were required to remain for make-up or other teacher requirements are allowed to travel on the shuttle. Individuals who were held by teachers will require a pass from the principal.

 

5. A place in each town shall be designated as an unloading area. If convenient, drops may be made on the way, but the bus will not veer from the established route.

 

6. When there are insufficient numbers of requests to justify running the shuttle, or when it is necessary to cancel the shuttle, the schools shall be notified immediately.

 

Legal Reference: TITLE 20A MRSA Sec. 5401

 

Adopted: Prior to 1988

Revised: January 10, 1995

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: EEBB

 

USE OF PRIVATE VEHICLES ON SCHOOL BUSINESS

Certain school employees use their own cars for school purposes regularly or occasionally. To safeguard the District in matters of liability, particularly as this relates to a staff member transporting a student(s), the following policy shall be observed.

A. To use a private vehicle for school purposes, the staff member must have the written permission of the Superintendent or his/her designee.

1. This permission may be in the form of a standing permit for employees who use their own cars regularly for school purposes. The permit shall state the particular purpose and whether it includes transportation of students.

2. For all special trips involving students, including field trips, a special permit must be obtained in advance for the specific trip.

B. Persons so authorized to use their cars for school business purposes when transporting students shall be required to show proof of liability coverage.

C. The District shall assume no responsibility for liability in case of accident unless the staff member has the authorization described above.

D. The Board specifically forbids any staff member to transport students for school purposes without prior authorization.

E. No student shall be sent on school errands using his/her own vehicle.

It is recognized that this policy is subject to a wide range of interpretations. To assure an orderly administration of the policy, the Board of Directors establishes the following procedure for individuals who feel that the policy is not being justly administered.

A. The aggrieved shall meet with the Director of Transportation to discuss the situation.

B. If the aggrieved is not satisfied, then he/she shall meet with the Superintendent who will confer with the Director of Transportation before rendering his/her decision.

C. If the aggrieved is not satisfied, then he/she shall ask the Superintendent to place the item on the Board's agenda. The decision of the Board shall be final.

Cross Reference: EEBB-R - Use of Private Vehicles on School Business - Regulations

Adopted: August 14, 1985

Revised: September 13, 1994

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: EEBB-R

 

USE OF PRIVATE VEHICLES ON SCHOOL BUSINESS - REGULATIONS

 

Teachers who may be required to use their own automobiles in the performance of their duties and teachers who are assigned to more than one school per day shall be reimburse for all travel at the State of Maine rate per mile for all miles traveled during the day in excess of twice the distance to the teacher's first school of assignment on any given day shall be eligible for reimbursement.

 

Mileage is established according to the following schedule:

 

Middle School/Cascade Brook 4.0

Primary 7.0

Academy Hill/Cushing to Weld 14.0

Primary .5

Middle School/Cascade Brook 8.5

Primary 15.5

Weld 29.0

Middle School/Cascade Brook 9.5

 

Mileage will be measured to the nearest half mile.

Trips to conferences or other functions authorized by the Superintendent of Schools will require car pooling. Only one mileage will be paid per five (5) persons unless there are extenuating circumstances. Mileage will be determined as the shortest, most direct route. Expenses allowed for trips will only be paid upon presentation of receipted bills for tolls, hotel, fees, and meals.

 

This policy applies to all professional personnel. Vouchers for mileage must be submitted monthly.

 

Adopted: September 1984

Revised: 1987

Revised: October 25, 1994

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: EFBA

 

MENU DEVELOPMENT/OPTIONS

OFFER VS. SERVE LUNCH CONCEPT

The "Offer vs. Serve Option" provides that all lunches offered must contain five food items, but students have the freedom of choice in selecting the three, four or five items they intend to consume. They may refuse up to two items. This option is designed to be more economical for the school unit and result in less waste.

The same shall apply to the breakfast program. Four (4) items are offered and students may refuse one (1) under the "Offer vs. Serve Option".

All senior high schools must be under this provision. Junior high, middle and elementary schools may participate if approved by the local school board and notification is sent to the Maine Department of Education, School Nutrition Programs Division.

The Offer vs. Serve concept shall be implemented for this school system. The superintendent shall oversee the development of regulations and communications as appropriate to implement this option.

Adopted: October 11, 1994

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: EFC

 

FREE AND REDUCED PRICE FOOD SERVICES

The school unit shall take part, as feasible, in the National School Lunch and other food programs which may become available to assure that all children for whom this school board is responsible shall have the opportunity to receive proper nourishment.

Parents shall be advised that his program is available and eligibility criteria shall be made public.

In accordance with the guidelines for participation in these programs, and in accordance with the wishes of the board, no child who a teacher believes is improperly nourished shall be denied a free lunch, or other food, simply because proper application has not been received from his/her parents or guardian.

It shall be the policy in our schools that when school lunch is desired, payment is expected on that day or in advance by/for pupils not eligible for free lunches. Should there be any difficulty in obtaining such payment, the matter is to be resolved by direct contact with the parent (or student, if emancipated). No student is to be denied food as a disciplinary measure.

The administration shall establish and publish, as appropriate, procedures which conform with state and federal requirements and the intent of this policy regarding participation in programs for free/reduced price meals and supplementary food.

Adopted: October 11, 1994

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: EGAAA

REPRODUCTION OF COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL

MSAD No. 9 recognized the educational value of materials available through videotapes, computer disk, and general dark line copying. It is our intent to adhere to the provisions of copyright laws in the use of those materials. In an effort to discourage violation of copyright laws and prevent illegal activities:

A. All employees will be expected to adhere to the provisions of United States codes restricting copying of computer software, printed materials and visual materials which may legally take place;

B. Illegal copies of copyright materials may not be made or may not be used on school equipment; and,

C. The Superintendent of Schools or designees shall provide information to staff to assist them in understanding the limitation of the copyright laws as well as guidelines/procedures used by MSAD No. 9.

Adopted: January 1, 1987

Reviewed: December 1994

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: EGAD

 

COPYRIGHT COMPLIANCE

Off_Air Recording of Broadcast Programming for Educational Purposes

It is the intent of the board to adhere to the provisions of copyright laws as they relate to the off_air recording of broadcast programming for educational purposes. This policy reflects the application of "fair use" to the recording, retention and use of television broadcast programs and represents the board's sincere effort to operate legally.

Television programs may be recorded for educational purposes and retained for a period not to exceed forty_five calendar days. After the first ten consecutive school days, recordings may be used only for evaluation purposes. Teachers may use recordings once in the course of relevant teaching activities, and they may be repeated once when necessary for instructional reinforcement. Recordings may be made only at the request of individual teachers. Such recordings may not be altered from their original content, and all copies must include the copyright notice.

The principal of each school is responsible for establishing regulations that will enforce this policy at the school level.

Software Copyright

It is the intent of the board to adhere to the provisions of copyright laws as they relate to computer programs. The board recognizes that computer software piracy is a major problem for the industry and that violations of computer copyright laws hinder the development of effective educational use of computers. Although there continues to be controversy regarding interpretation of copyright laws, this policy represents a sincere effort to operate legally.

School personnel will be expected to abide by the provisions of Public Law 96_517, Section 7 (b), which amends Section 117 of Title 17 of the United States code, to allow for the making of a backup copy of computer programs. Under this law, it is permissible for the owner of a copy of a computer program to make a copy or adaptation of that program only when such a copy or adaptation is created as an essential step in the use of the archival purposes. Such archival copies will be destroyed in the event that continued possession of the program should cease to be rightful.

Illegal copies of copyrighted programs may not be made or used on school equipment. The legal or insurance protection of the school system will not be extended to employees who violate copyright laws.

The board reserves the right to designate an individual school system employee to sign software license agreements for schools in the unit.

The principal of each school is responsible for establishing regulations that will enforce this policy at the school level.

Adopted: September 13, 1994

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: EGAD_R

 

COPYRIGHT COMPLIANCE _ GUIDELINES

Software Copyright Policy

A. The ethical and practical problems caused by software piracy will be taught in all the schools in the school system.

B. School system employees will be expected to adhere to the provisions of Public Law 97_517, Section 7 (b) which amends Section 117 of Title 17 of the United States code to allow for the making of a back_up copy of computer programs. This states that "...it is not an infringement for the owner of a copy of a computer program to make or authorize the making of another copy or adaptation of that computer program provided:

1. That such a new copy or adaptation is created as an essential step in the utilization of the computer program in conjunction with a machine and that it is used in no other manner; or

2. That such a new copy and adaptation is for archival purposes only and that all archival copies are destroyed in the event that continued possession of the computer program should cease to be rightful.

C. When software is to be used on a disk sharing system, efforts will be made to secure this software from copying.

D. Illegal copies of copyrighted programs may not be made or used on school equipment.

E. The school system will contact producers of software used within the system to attempt to establish legal, multiple_use licensing agreements. All programs used by staff and students (outside the formal teaching of a program) will be the original/backup disks or the result of a licensing agreement with the software producer.

Videotaping Copyright Policy

Taping off the air can be legally done if the program:

A. Is used under Fair Use Guidelines (see guidelines for off_air videotaping);

B. Is used with a TLC License;

C. Has been cleared by state or local ETV agencies;

 

 

 

Page 1 of 6

MSAD No. 9

File: EGAD_R

D. Is a hard news program used under network license;

E. Is a public domain program (anything that comes from the Federal Government such as presidential addresses); or

F. If used with the permission of the copyright proprietor.

Off_Air Videotaping Policy

A. The guidelines were developed to apply only to off_air recording by non_profit educational institutions.

B. A broadcast program may be recorded off_air simultaneously with broadcast transmission (including simultaneous cable retransmission) and retained by a non_profit educational institution for a period not to exceed the first forty_five (45) consecutive calendar days after date of recording. Upon conclusion of such retention period, all off_air recordings must be erased or destroyed immediately. "Broadcast programs" are television programs transmitted by television stations for reception by the general public without charge.

C. Off_air recordings may be used once by individual teachers in the course of relevant teaching activities and repeated once only when instructional reinforcement is necessary, in classrooms and similar places devoted to instruction within a single building, cluster or campus, as well as in the homes of students receiving formalized home instruction, during the first ten (10) consecutive school days in the forty_five (45) calendar day retention period. "School days" are school session days__not counting weekends, holidays, vacations, examination periods, or other scheduled interruptions__within the forty_five (45) calendar day retention period.

D. Off_air recordings may be made only at the request of and used by individual teachers and may not be regularly recorded in anticipation of requests. No broadcast program may be recorded off_air more than once at the request of the same teacher, regardless of the number of times the program may be broadcast.

E. A limited number of copies may be reproduced from each off_air recording to meet the legitimate needs of teachers under these guidelines. Each such additional copy shall be subject to all provisions governing the original recording.

F. After the first ten (10) consecutive school days, off_air recordings may be used up to the end of the forty_five (45) calendar day retention period only for teacher evaluation purposes, i.e., to determine whether or not to include the broadcast program in the teaching curriculum and may not be used in the recording institution for student exhibition or any other non_evaluation purpose without authorization.

G. Off_air recordings need not be used in their entirety, but the recorded programs may not be altered from their original content. Off_air recordings may not be physically or electronically combined or merged to constitute teaching anthologies or compilations.

H. All copies of off_air recordings must include the copyright notice on the broadcast program as recorded.

I. Educational institutions are expected to establish appropriate control procedures to maintain the integrity of these guidelines.

Print Media Copyright Policy

The copyright law recognizes the special needs of teachers and students for copyrighted print media but does not give them unrestricted privileges. The board, therefore, adopts the following guidelines which correlate with those of the Ad Hoc Committee on Copyright Law Revision:

A. Single copying for teachers

A single copy may be made of any of the following by or for a teacher for his/her scholarly research or use in teaching or preparation to teach a class:

1. A chapter from a book;

2. An article from a periodical or newspaper;

3. A short story, short essay or short poem; or

4. A chart, graph, diagram, drawing, cartoon or picture from a book, periodical or newspaper.

B. Multiple copies for classroom use

Multiple copies may be made by or for a teacher giving a course for classroom use or discussion provided that:

1. The copying is SPONTANEOUS

a. The decision to use the work and the moment of its use is so short that there is not time enough to obtain permission for its use.

b. The use is at the inspiration of one teacher.

2. The copying is BRIEF

a. Prose__no more than 2,500 of any prose.

b. Poetry__no more than 250 words.

c. One illustration__chart, graph, diagram, drawing or picture__per book or periodical issue.

3. Copying shall not exceed the prescribed CUMULATIVE amount

a. The material is for only one course in the school.

b. Not more than one short poem, article, story essay or two excerpts from the same author during one class semester.

c. Not more than nine instances of multiple copying for one course during one class semester.

In addition:

A. There shall be no copying of or from works intended to be "consumable" in the course of study or teaching such as workbooks, standardized test and test booklets.

B. Copying shall not be repeated with respect to the same item by the same teacher from semester to semester.

C. Each copy shall include a notice of copyright.

D. No charge shall be made to the student beyond the actual cost of copying.

Music Copyright Policy

We accept the guidelines for educational uses of music as set forth by a similar committee.

The purpose of the following guidelines is to state the minimum and not the maximum standards of educational fair use under Section 107 of HR2223. The parties agree that the conditions determining the extent of permissible copying for educational purposes may change in the future; that certain types of copying permitted under these guidelines may not be permissible in the future, and conversely that in the future other types of copying not permitted under these guidelines may be permissible under revised guidelines.

Moreover, the following statement of guidelines is not intended to limit the types of copying permitted under the standards of fair use under judicial decision and which are stated in Section 107 of the Copyright Revision Bill. There may be instances in which copying which does not fall within the guidelines stated below may nonetheless be permitted under the criteria of fair use.

A. Permissible Uses

1. Emergency copying to replace purchased copies which for any reason are not available for an imminent performance provided purchased replacement copies shall be substituted in due course.

2. (a) For academic purposes other than performance, multiple copies of excerpts of works may be made, provided that the excerpts do not comprise a part of the whole which would constitute a performable unit such as section, movement or aria, but in no case more than 10% of the whole work. The number of copies shall not exceed one copy per pupil.

(b) For academic purposes other than performance, a single copy of an entire performable unit (section, movement, aria, etc.) that is, (1) confirmed by the copyright proprietor to be out of print, or (2) unavailable except in a larger work, may be made by or for a teacher solely for the purpose of his/her scholarly research or in preparation to teach a class.

3. Printed copies which have been purchased may be edited or simplified provided that the fundamental character of the work is not distorted or the lyrics, if any, altered or lyrics added if none exist.

4. A single copy of recordings of performances by students may be made for evaluation or rehearsal purposes and may be retained by the educational institution or individual teacher.

5. A single copy of a sound recording (such as a tape, disc or cassette) of copyrighted music may be made from sound recordings owned by an educational institution or an individual teacher for the purpose of constructing aural exercises or examinations and may be retained by the educational institution or individual teacher. (This pertains only to the copyright of the music itself and not to any copyright which may exist in the sound recording.)

B. Prohibitions

1. Copying to create or replace or substitute for anthologies, compilations or collective works.

2. Copying of or from works intended to be "consumable" in the course of study or of teaching such as workbooks, exercises, standardized tests and answer sheets and like material.

3. Copying for the purpose of performance, except as in A. 1. above.

4. Copying for the purpose of substituting for the purchase of music, except as in A. 1. and A. 2. above.

5. Copying without inclusion of the copyright notice which appears on the printed copy.

Adopted: Prior to 1988

Revised: October 11, 1994

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: FA

 

FACILITIES DEVELOPMENT GOALS/PRIORITY OBJECTIVES

As the board seeks to overcome deficiencies in its physical plant, it will strive to provide new and remodeled facilities that will offer the best possible physical environment for learning and teaching.

The board aims specifically toward:

A. Constructing new buildings and making renovations that will accommodate new organizational and instructional patterns that support the school system's educational philosophy and goals;

B. Meeting all safety requirements through the remodeling of older structures;

C. Providing renovations of public school facilities to meet the requirements of individuals with disabilities; and

D. Building design and construction that will lend to low maintenance costs and the conservation of energy. These two factors will also be given special consideration in the renovation of buildings.

Decisions pertaining to educational specifications of new buildings and those undergoing extensive remodeling will be developed only after the viewpoints of teachers, students, parents, and citizens have been sought.

Adopted: October 25, 1994

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: FB

 

FACILITIES PLANNING

The board recognizes that educational programs are substantially influenced by their environment. The development of a quality educational program and school facilities which help to implement it go together.

It is the board's goal to provide appropriate facilities needed for the number of students in the district and to provide the kind of facilities that support and accommodate the educational program. To this end, there should always be a five_year facilities plan on file with the board, which is updated every two years.

In planning facilities, the board recognizes that capital outlay funds are limited and that it must establish priorities in order to make the best use of the school building dollar.

Architects employed by the board are expected to plan for educational utility, flexibility and for access to and use by individuals with handicapping conditions. They are also expected to consider sound economics (low long_range maintenance costs, energy efficiency, low insurance rates) and quality of design.

New buildings and/or renovations to existing buildings shall be in accordance with established organizational patterns and designed to fit both current and anticipated instructional programs.

For each building project, a Building Committee will be appointed and charged with the responsibility of facilities planning. The authority and responsibilities of this Committee shall be detailed by the board at the time of appointment.

Decisions pertaining to the construction of educational facilities will be made after consultation with professional staff, students, parents and citizens.

All plans and procedures shall be in compliance with federal and state law, and all regulations of the Maine Department of Education shall be complied with in all stages of facilities planning and construction.

Legal Reference: TITLE 20A MRSA SEC. 15903

Adopted: October 25, 1994

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: FC

 

FACILITIES FUNDING AND CONSTRUCTION

When there is a need for school construction, the board shall request the necessary state approval to begin planning. Upon determination of the cost of the construction, the board shall approve a bond issue for the amount needed and shall take the necessary steps for presenting the issue for public approval.

If the voters approve the bond issue, construction planning shall proceed. Award of the construction contract shall be made after advertisement for bids and shall be given to the low bidder who meets all requirements, including the state codes of fair practices (equal opportunity employment).

During the construction period, the board shall determine who shall be its agent for approving changes in specifications and/or cost changes (an administrator, construction supervisor, board committee, or other). The board shall itself retain final approval over all but minor decisions concerning construction.

Legal Reference: TITLE 20A MRSA SEC. 15909

Adopted: October 25, 1994

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: FEA

 

EDUCATIONAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR CONSTRUCTION

The superintendent shall be charged with detailing educational specifications for all new buildings to ensure that all new facilities and/or major renovations are designed and built to serve the school system's educational program. Specifications, with board approval, will be presented to the Building Committee for use by the architect.

In developing specifications, the superintendent shall draw on recommendations from citizens, professional and non_professional staff, students and community groups.

Specifications shall include (but not be limited to):

A. Organization and estimated enrollment in the proposed building;

B. Description of students to be served;

C. Description of proposed teaching methods and curriculum;

D. Space requirements; and

E. Architect's floor plans and layouts of special areas and specifications for equipment needed in these areas.

Adopted: October 25, 1994

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: GA

 

PERSONNEL GOALS/PRIORITY OBJECTIVES

 

The Board recognizes that the most important element in a quality education program is the staff. The contribution of every staff member is important. Therefore, the Board must employ highly qualified people, provide appropriate staff development opportunities, and support staff with policies and working conditions conducive to high morale and to individual professional development.

The goals of the personnel program are:

A. To use recruitment screening and selection procedures that will result in employing the best available candidates.

B. To assign staff for their greatest contribution to students learning.

C. To develop a climate that will encourage superior performance, high morale and professional satisfaction.

D. To provide positive and appropriate opportunities for staff development, designed both to improve learning and to support individual professional growth.

E. To provide reasonable compensation and benefits, as well as to make other provisions for staff welfare, and

F. To use for evaluation of the work of personnel such positive practices as will improve both their performance and the learning of students.

Adopted: October 25, 1994

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: GAB

 

JOB DESCRIPTIONS

In order for the school unit to function most efficiently and effectively, the duties and responsibilities for each position, along with the criteria (skills, knowledge and abilities) required to perform those duties, shall be set forth in written job descriptions.

The superintendent is responsible for job description development, as well as review/revision as warranted, but not less often than every five years. Development, reassessment and revision of job descriptions shall include input from people affected by the position to ensure that the information contained is relevant to the position.

Legal Reference: TITLE 20A MRSA, SEC. 1001.13

Adopted: September 13, 1994

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


 

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT

The Board of Directors of MSAD No. 9 affirms that it employs without discrimination on the basis of race, sex, color, national origin, marital status, age, handicap, or religion the best qualified persons available at the salary levels established for school employment. The Board of Directors recognizes its obligation to take affirmative action in employment practices for compliance with the Maine Human Rights Act and Section 504.

A. Distribution of Staff

MSAD No. 9 recruitment policy is designed to better represent staff available from minority groups.

B. Recruitment

1. Whenever seeking candidates for any position, MSAD No. 9 will offer equal opportunity to every candidate regardless of race, sex, color, national origin, marital status, age, handicap, or religion. The District will advertise the jobs throughout the State to ensure that candidates will have an opportunity to apply.

2. Application forms for teaching and non-teaching positions shall not contain questions or requirements which discriminate by race, sex, color, national origin, marital status, age, handicap, or religion.

C. Applicant Flow Data

MSAD No. 9 will maintain records of inquiries and applications for employment for two (2) years. Such records will be made available to the Affirmative Action coordinator for periodic analysis.

Applicant flow data shall include:

1. Name of applicant or inquirer;

2. Date of application or inquiry; and,

3. Action taken on application or inquiry.

D. Statement of Equal Opportunity

MSAD No. 9 will cause to be printed on any notices of open positions and any correspondence to candidates for position, the following sentence:

"We are an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer."

E. Promotion, Transfer, Layoffs, Benefits, Compensation, Demotions, Suspensions, Terminations, Hiring, Training

MSAD No. 9 does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, national origin, marital status, age, handicap, or religion concerning promotion, transfer, layoffs, benefits, compensation, demotions, suspensions, terminations, hiring, training.

F. Pregnancy

MSAD No. 9 will not discriminate in employment and/or benefits on the basis of pregnancy or related conditions.

 

Legal Reference: Title 5 MRSA Sec. 781 ET SEQ

Cross Reference: AC - Nondiscrimination/Equal Opportunity

Adopted: Prior to 1988

Reviewed: December 1994

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


STAFF INVOLVEMENT IN DECISION MAKING

The board believes that decision making at every level should involve those who will be affected by the decisions. Therefore, policy decisions about curriculum, instruction, and the overall school program shall be arrived at by a process that includes consultation with the professional staff. (Such participation by the professional staff shall in no way abrogate the right and the responsibility of the Board to set policy.) Such discussion should be conducted in a spirit of cooperation and with the best interests of the learners kept clearly in mind.

Each administrator/supervisor shall establish a process of collaborative decision making involving professional staff at every phase designed to further the faculty/staff’s sense of responsibility for school and student performance.

The MSAD #9 Board of Directors supports building level decision making in the following areas:

Employment

Teacher/Staff (screening, interviewing)

Support Staff (screening, interviewing)

Co/Extra Curricular (screening, interviewing)

Staff Development (extra early release days)

Curriculum

Monitoring implementation

Teacher initiated student assessment

Discipline/Safety

Building Behavior Plans

Bus Behavior Plans

Safety Plans for support staff

Budget development (discretionary areas)

Supply money expenditures

Scheduling

Co/Extra Curricular

Duties

Events

Communication (parents, community, events)

Long Range Planning (building level)

Staffing

Facilities

Meetings

Classroom activities

Building activities

Fund Raising Activities (school, class, classroom, program)

 

Field Trips

Areas not identified on this list are left to the building administrator/supervisor in consultation with the Central Office.

This policy does not supersede any policies already in existence.

Each building administrator/supervisor will meet and review this list with staff and identify which areas the staff wishes to engage in shared decision making. Each building will establish a process for implementing school based decision making and submit a copy of the process and areas identified to the Central Office. This process shall be reviewed and updated annually.

Further, the Board believes that increasing responsibility for decision making must be accompanied by increasing accountability for results. Therefore any proposals for changes in program and/or goals should include evaluative procedures linked to student outcomes. Evaluations of teachers should include assessment of the teacher's effectiveness in working toward these goals.

The board reserves unto itself the right to make the final decision on questions of school policy. The board will endeavor to respect the judgment of the professional staff and take into account any recommendations resulting from shared decision_making processes prior to reaching a decision on behalf of the public and the students of the school system.

Legal Reference: MSBA RESOLUTION A.7.

TITLE 26 MRSA SEC. 965

Cross Reference: GCOA _ EVALUATION OF PROFESSIONAL STAFF - TEACHERS

CC - Administrative Organization Plan

Adopted: September 1978

Revised: September 13, 1994

Revised: October 13, 1998

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: GBEA

STAFF PROTECTION

MSAD No. 9 recognizes the right of each employee to work in an atmosphere which is free of intimidation, hostility, and offensiveness. In order to insure such an atmosphere, employees should not engage in harassment of subordinates and/or co-workers where the harassment is based upon race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, or handicap. Acts of this nature are not only a violation of this policy but also constitute illegal discrimination under state and federal laws.

Examples of prohibited harassment:

A. Unwelcome sexual advances, gestures, comments, or contact;

B. Threats;

C. Offensive jokes;

D. Ridicule, slurs, derogatory action or remarks; and,

E. Basing employment decisions on practices of submission to harassment.

Employees should also be advised of the importance of informing the harasser that his/her behavior is unwelcome, offensive, in poor taste, or highly inappropriate. Employees who believe that they are victims of harassment should report such occurrences to the Affirmative Action Coordinator. The Affirmative Action Coordinator shall advise the person who has allegedly been harassed of the various options available to the person: Human Rights Commission complaint, Title IX civil action, or formal request for discipline by the Superintendent and/or School Board of Directors.

Cross Reference: AC - Nondiscrimination/Equal Opportunity

Adopted: 1981

Reviewed: December 1994

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


 

File: GBEB

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.

II. Student Chemical Health Policy (Secondary/Elementary)

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

students.

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.

 

Adopted: January 10, 1989

Revised: November 23, 1993

Revised: August 12, 1997

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File GBEB-R:

No Data


File: GBED

 

TOBACCO USE ON SCHOOL PREMISES

TOBACCO-FREE CAMPUS

 

The MSAD No. 9 Board of Directors believes that the use of tobacco products is injurious to the health of both those who use tobacco and, in the case of smoking, those who must inhale air filled with the smoke.   The school curriculum teaches the health risks associated with the use of tobacco.

 

Effective August 1, 1999, the MSAD #9 school campuses shall be tobacco-free 24 hours a day.  Smoking and/or the use, sale or distribution of tobacco products by anyone is prohibited at all times on the school campus.  This shall include school buildings, bus garage, grounds, athletic fields, driveways, roadways, parking lots, and school-owned vehicles.  Students and staff will be expected to maintain a smoke free environment at bus stops and at school functions that take place off campus.  All individuals on school premises share in the responsibility for adhering to and enforcing this policy.     

 

 

Legal Reference:                   TITLE 22 MRSA SEC. 1580-A

 

Adopted:            August 13, 1985

Revised:            October 23, 1990

Revised:            January 8, 1991

Revised:            July 23, 1991

Revised:            April 1995

Revised:            June 8, 1999

Reviewed:            January 22, 2002


File: GBED-R

 

TOBACCO FREE CAMPUS

FACULTY AND STAFF REGULATION

 

All faculty and staff of MSAD #9 must comply with the 24 hour Tobacco-Free School policy regulations set forth by the Board of Directors.

 

This regulation is established to:

 

1.             reflect and emphasize the hazards of tobacco use;

 

2.             further the goal of consistency among ongoing school programs by discouraging students from using tobacco products;

 

3.             protect the health and safety of all students, employees and the general public;

 

4.             set a non-tobacco use example by adults.

 

Employees will be provided with information on available smoking cessation programs and options annually.   Staff will also be notified of programs that are covered as part of district medical insurance plan.

 

Smoking and/or the use, sale or distribution of tobacco products by employees on school property or in school vehicles is prohibited.  Employees of MSAD #9 violating this policy will be subject to disciplinary action.

 

First Offense:                        A verbal warning by the appropriate supervisor.  Provide the employee with information on available cessation programs.  A police report may be filed if applicable.

 

Second Offense:                A formal written reprimand by the appropriate supervisor and a copy to be place in the employee=s personnel file.  A cessation program (with documentation) is required.  A police report may be filed if applicable.

 

Third Offense:                Meeting with the superintendent.  Violations shall be dealt with in accordance with established policies and procedures for disciplinary action which may include suspension and/or dismissal.  A police report may be filed if applicable.

                                                                                               

 

Adopted:                June 8, 1999

Reviewed:                January 22, 2002


File:  GBG

 

STAFF HEALTH AND SAFETY

 

Chemical Dependency

 

            Alcoholism and drug abuse are two of today's major health problems resulting in increased human tragedy and economic loss.  MSAD No. 9 recognizes chemical dependency, including alcoholism, as a treatable disease which can be permanently arrested.  The social stigma often associated with this disease only increases the suffering of the chemically dependent and their families.

 

            MSAD No. 9 recognizes that this problem is not confined to the District, but is a community problem;  therefore, the District will cooperate closely with all effective organizations dealing with chemical dependency.

 

            MSAD No. 9 will engage the Office of Substance Abuse to assist in training personnel in the identification and understanding of the disease.  In addition, Tri-County Mental Health offers counseling and referral services for any employee or family member who wants assistance.  All contacts with any mental health agency or agent will be on a confidential basis.  The confidential nature of the medical records of employees with chemical dependency, including alcoholism, will be preserved in the same manner as all other medical records.  The District will assist the employee in establishing and sustaining contact with Tri-County Mental Health or other effective agencies for counseling.

 

            Employees who have symptoms of chemical dependency are urged to seek help through the chemical dependency program; the MSAD No. 9 Board and administration are committed to establishing a helping relationship with those employees who endeavor to recover from this illness or who wish to discuss the possibility that they have a chemical use problem.  District employees who are so diagnosed shall receive the same consideration and opportunity for treatment which is extended to employees with other types of illness.  While under treatment, employees with the illness of chemical dependency shall qualify for the same employee benefits and group insurance coverage which is provided for other medically certified illnesses with established employee benefit plans and programs.  Confidentiality of medical records will be strictly adhered to.

 

            MSAD No. 9 recognizes that the appropriate insurance carrier shall determine the nature and extent of plan coverage.

 

            The District is concerned about the effects of harmful chemical involvement on the employee's job performance and personal health.  For the purpose of this policy, harmful involvement occurs when an employee's consumption or use of mood altering chemicals interferes with the employee's job performance or personal health.

 

            As with other diseases, it may be necessary to alter a person's responsibilities because of his/her chemical dependency or in extreme cases terminate the employee.  Every effort will be made to equitably accommodate the employee; however, the safety and welfare of students is of paramount importance.

 

            While MSAD No. 9 is committed to helping those employees who wish to help themselves through voluntary participation in the chemical dependency program, it recognizes that employees of the District may choose to engage in the abuse of chemicals and/or alcohol despite the existence of the District's helping attitude.  In the event that an employee engages in the use, possession, or sale of illicit chemicals or alcohol at school or during any school functions, or is under the influence of same, initial disciplinary steps will be taken by the administration and/or Board of Directors.

 

 

Adopted:            Prior to 1988

Revised:            November 29, 1994

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File: GBJ

 

PERSONNEL RECORDS AND FILES

 

The school unit shall maintain records of current and former employees in the Office of the Superintendent in accordance with state and federal laws and regulations.

 

Directory Information

 

As required by law, a record of directory information for each employee shall be open to inspection and copying by any person. Directory information shall contain:

 

A. Name of employee;

 

B. Date(s) of employment by the school unit;

 

C.    Regular and extra-curricular duties, courses, subjects taught, and any other responsibilities since the start of employment by the school unit;

 

D. Post-secondary education institution(s) attended;

 

E. Major and minor field(s) of study as required by those institutions; and

 

F. Degrees received and dates degrees were awarded.

 

Confidential Information

 

As required by law, all information (except Directory Information) about an employee, applicant for employment, or an employee/applicant's immediate family shall be kept confidential if it relates to the following:

 

A.    All information, working papers, and examinations used in the evaluation or selection of applicants for employment;

 

B.    Medical information of any kind, including information pertaining to diagnosis or treatment of mental or emotional disorders;

 


C.


Performance evaluations, personal references and other reports and evaluations reflecting on the quality or adequacy of the employee's work or general character compiled and maintained for employment purposes;

 


 

D.     Credit information;

 

E.     The personal history, general character or conduct of the employee or any member of the employee's immediate family;

 

F.     Complaints, charges of misconduct, replies thereto and memoranda and other mater/als pertaining to disciplinary action;

 

G.    Social Security number;


Any teacher action plan and support system documents and reports maintained for certification purposes; and

 Criminal history record information.

 

Personnel Files

 

Personnel files will contain a cumulative history of the staff member's employment, including formal or informal employee work evaluations and reports relating to the employee's character, credit, work habits, compensation and benefits.

 



Other Confidential Personnel Records

 

The school unit must maintain the following confidential employee records separate from the personnel files:

 

A. Medical information of any kind; and

 

B. Teacher action plan and support system documents and reports maintained for certification purposes.

 

Disciplinary Action Information

 

Any written record or a decision involving an employee disciplinary action by the School Board shall not be included ~thin any category of confidential information.

 

Procedures for Review of Personnel Files

 

For the purpose of this section, a personnel file shall include, but not be limited to, any formal or informal employee evaluations and reports relating to the employee's character, credit, work habits, compensation and benefits which the Superintendent has in his/her possession.

 

A.            The Superintendent shall, upon written request and within 10 business days provide the employee, former employee, or his/her duly authorized representative(s) with an opportunity to review and copy h/s/her personnel file, if the Superintendent has a personnel file for that employee.

 

B.            Reviews of personnel files shall take place at the location where the personnel files are maintained and during          normal office hours.

 

C.            The cost of any copying is to be paid by the person requesting the copy.  However, each teacher may receive one (1) set of documents at Board expense per five (5) year period.

 

                D.            Access to confidential college placement records and letters of reference will be granted only to the   Superintendent/designee.

 

Access to Personnel Files

 

Access to personnel files may be given to the following persons without the consent of the employee.

 

A.    The Superintendent or his/her designee, the employee's principal or other supervisor(s). Personnel files are not accessible to individual School Board members.

 

Relevant portions of a personnel file may be summarized and/or shared with the Board by the Superintendent when consideration is being given to performance evaluation, continuation of employment or disciplinary action.

B. The general public shall have access only to the Directory Information as outlined above.

 

Access to personnel files will not be granted to any other persons except under the following circumstances:

 

A.    When the employee gives written consent for the release of his/her records. The written consent must specify the record(s) to be released and to whom they are to be released. Each request for consent must be handled separately; blanket permission for release of information will not be accepted; and

 

   B.   Upon advice of counsel, when subpoenaed or under court order.

 

 


Records Management

 

The Superintendent has overall responsibility for maintaining and preserving the confidentiality of all employee/ applicant records. The Superintendent may designate a staff member who shall be responsible for granting or denying access to records according to the guidelines in this policy.

 

Written reports shall be maintained in personnel files to document compliance with federal and state laws and regulations and School Board policies regarding employee evaluations. Once a document is properly placed in a personnel file, it shall remain in the file permanently, unless otherwise noted in the teachers’ negotiated contract.

 

Records Retention

 

The school unit will retain all personnel records and files in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

 

Legal Reference:


20-A MRSA §§ 6101; 13015

26 MRSA § 631

Chapter 10, Rules for Disposition of Local Government Records (Maine State Archives) Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, 42 U.S.C.

Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993, 29 U.S.C. 2611 et seq.

Cross Reference: KDB - Public's Right to Know/Freedom of Information

 

Adopted:                  June 8, 1999

Reviewed:                January 22, 2002


File:          GBJAA

 

CONFIDENTIALITY IN THE HIRING PROCESS

 

                Maine state law strictly requires that all information relating to applicants for employment remain confidential.  This applies to school board members, administrators, and secretarial staff by virtue of their positions.  It also applies to other staff and members of the public whenever they are involved in a screening and/or interviewing committee assisting in the selection process.

 

                Therefore, the following three (3) components shall be included in procedures used to fill all positions:

 

1.                Potential candidates shall be notified on the application form that the materials submitted may be disclosed to a screening and/or interviewing committee which may include board members, administrators, staff, and members of the community.  An individual must sign the consent form in order to be considered an applicant.

 

2.                Any screening and/or interviewing committee is to receive a thorough orientation on the strict responsibility to maintain confidentiality pursuant to state law.

 

3.                Each individual, prior to serving as a screening and/or interviewing committee member, shall sign a standard form acknowledging that he/she understands and intends to honor the strict requirement to maintain confidentiality regarding applicant information.  Such forms shall be retained on file in the Superintendent's Office.

 

Legal Reference:                 Title 20A MRSA, Section 6101.2,B.

 

Adopted:  September 13, 1994

Reviewed: January 22, 2002


File:  GCBA

 

PROFESSIONAL STAFF SALARY SCHEDULES

 

Vocationally Subsidized Education Salaries

 

            All persons employed as full-time instructors in approved vocational programs will be credited with one (1) year of teaching experience for each two (2) years of successful work experience in the field at the Journeyman's level in which the instruction is teaching, except that work experience and educational preparation credited toward initial certification shall not be counted.  The maximum number of steps that may be granted under this provision shall be six (6).

 

            The work experience and educational preparation deducted will be in accordance with the current mandates established by the State Department of Educational and Cultural Services, Teacher Certification Division.

 

            Once the person is employed under this provision, the instructor shall be considered to have a Bachelor's Degree equivalent, unless the person has a Master's Degree, and then he/she shall be placed on the Masters scale.  Additional course credit hours earned will be credited toward advance placement on the salary schedule.

 

            A teacher currently employed or who is newly hired by the District will not receive additional compensation for field experience acquired after the date of initial vocational certification, but will receive teaching experience credit if earned.

 

Legal Reference:            Title 20A MRSA Sec. 13507A ET SEQ.

 

Adopted:            June 16, 1981

Reviewed:            December 1994

Reviewed:            January 22, 2002        

File:  GCBDA

 

PROFESSIONAL STAFF MILITARY LEAVE

 

                It is the policy of MSAD No. 9 to treat employees who are called for short-term military leave in the following manner:

 

                A.                Employees will be excused for their short-term military leave when the short-term military leave cannot be taken during vacation periods.

 

                B.                The employee shall give the Superintendent of Schools thirty (30) days notice relating to the periods of time necessary for the employee to meet the military obligation whenever such notice is possible.

 

                C.                For each day that the employee is absent from his/her duties in MSAD No. 9, will pay the difference between his/her military basic daily pay rate and MSAD No. 9 per diem rate if the MSAD No. 9 per diem rate is the higher.

 

(See Contractual Agreement between MSAD No. 9 and SREA.)

 

Adopted:                July 27, 1982

Reviewed:                 December 1994

Reviewed:                January 22, 2002

File:          GCC

 

PROFESSIONAL STAFF LEAVES AND ABSENCES

 

                Sabbatical leave for approved study or research may be granted teachers or other professional staff members by the Board of Directors upon recommendation of the Superintendent following each seven (7) years service in the District.  Only two (2) persons may be granted such leaves to run concurrently.  All requests must be submitted prior to December 15 preceding the requested sabbatical.  The Board of Directors will act on the requests on or before February 15.

 

                The leave may be for a period not to exceed one (1) full academic year.  The period of the leave shall not count as regular service for the purpose of accumulating sick leave but any sick leave accumulated prior to the leave shall remain in effect upon the return of the employee.  The sabbatical leave will not count as a year of service.  Longevity and seniority will not accumulate; however, on return, the employee will be reinstated with the number of years of service accumulated prior to the leave.

 

                In making the recommendation, the Superintendent shall be guided by the value of the sabbatical plans to the District.

 

                The salary will be one-half (1/2) base salary.  This means a person will receive one-half (1/2) what he/she would have received for a salary that year as a teacher.  No extra duty or special area pay is included when computing base salary.

 

                As a condition of the sabbatical, the staff member enters into a written agreement with the Board of Directors that upon termination of the leave, he/she will return to the District for a period equal to the length of the leave; and that in default, he/she will refund a sum equal to the salary received from the District during the leave period.

 

                Upon his/her return from leave, the staff member will be assigned, if possible, to the position previously held.  Otherwise, a comparable assignment will be made.  If a person does not complete the year at school, he/she will refund all of the money paid, upon arrangement.

 

                The salary will be paid bi-weekly.  Retirement will be deducted (giving a year of credit toward retirement); state group life insurance may be continued if desired; and hospitalization insurance may be continued on the same basis as the regular staff.

 

                The terms of the sabbatical shall be spelled out in writing and signed by the teacher and Superintendent at the time the sabbatical is granted.  (See Contractual Agreement between MSAD No. 9 and the MSAD No. 9 EA.)

 

Legal Reference:  TITLE 20A MRSA SEC. 13604 ET SEQ.

Adopted:                September 1978

Revised:                November 29, 1994            

Revised:                November 25, 1997

Reviewed:                January 22, 2002

File: GCCA

 

Family and Medical Leave Policy

 

The federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provides generally that an eligible employee is entitled to up to 12 work weeks of leave during any 12-month period:

 

 (1) for the birth, adoption, or foster placement of a child;

 (2) to care for a spouse, son, daughter or parent with a serious health condition; or

 (3) when the employee is unable to work because of the employee’s serious health condition.

 

To be eligible, an employee must:

 

 (a) have been employed for at least 12 months when the leave commences, and

 (b) have worked at least 1250 hours in the 12 previous months.

 

In administering the FMLA for eligible employees, the employer will abide by the following:

 

1.             The “12-month period” for purposes of the FMLA referred to above shall be September 1 through August 31.

 

2.                 Employees requesting leave shall provide at least 30 days notice whenever such leave is                 foreseeable.

 

3.                Whenever an employee is absent for five consecutive days, the employee will be asked to provide                 information needed to determine whether the leave is for an FMLA-qualifying purpose.

 

4.             All leave taken for FMLA-qualifying purposes shall be counted toward employees’ FMLA entitlement.  Any employee taking leave under FMLA shall concurrently use any applicable paid leave available under existing policies or agreements, provided the employee meets all                 requirements for such paid leave.  After such paid leave is exhausted, the balance of the FMLA leave shall be unpaid.

 

5.             The employer will continue to pay its share of the employee’s health insurance premium while the employee is on unpaid FMLA leave.  The employee must pay his or her share of the premium on a monthly basis as directed by the administrative office.

 

6.             Before returning to work, employees taking FMLA leave for their own serious health condition shall submit a certificate from a health care provider indicating that they are able to return to  work and perform the essential functions of the position.

 

7.                Employees who are not eligible for FMLA leave may be eligible for up to 10 weeks of unpaid family or medical leave during any two-year period under the Maine Family Medical Leave Act.

 

8.             Further information about the federal Family and Medical Leave Act is contained in U.S.                 Department of Labor Program Highlights, attached hereto.

 

Attachment: U.S. Department of Labor Fact Sheet No. ESA 93-24

Legal Reference:                26 U.S.C. Section 2601 et. seq.

                                29 C.F.R. Part 825

                                26 M.R.S.A. Section 843 et. seq.


Adopted:                December 14, 1999

Reviewed:                January 22, 2002


File: GCCA-E

 

Maine School Administrative District No. 9

11 School Lane

New Sharon, Maine  04955

 

Telephone:  (207) 778-6571                                                                                 Fax: (207) 778-4160

 

 

 

Date: ________________________

 

To: __________________________

 

From: Kris Pottle, Business Manager

 

 

Re: Request for Family/Medical Leave

 

 

On __________ you notified us of your need to take family/medical leave due to:

 

                the birth of a child, or the placement of a child with you for adoption or foster; or


 

                a serious health condition that makes you unable to perform the essential functions of your job; or

 

a serious health condition affecting your  __ spouse, __child, __parent, for which you are needed to provide care.

 

You notified us that you need this leave beginning on ____________ and that you expect leave to continue until on or about __________.

 

Except as explained below, you have a right under the FMLA for up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave in a 12-month period for the reasons listed above.  Also, your health benefits must be maintained during any period of unpaid leave under the same conditions as if you continued to work, and you must be reinstated to the same or an equivalent job with the same pay, benefits, and terms and conditions of employment on your return from leave.  If you do not return to work following the FMLA leave for a reason other than: (1) the continuation, recurrence, or onset of a serious health condition which would entitle you to FMLA leave; or (2) other circumstances beyond your control, you may be required to reimburse us for our share of health insurance premiums paid on your behalf during your FMLA leave.

 

 

This is to inform you that:

 

1.  You are __eligible  __not eligible for leave under FMLA.

 

2.  The requested leave __ will __ will not be counted against your annual FMLA entitlement.

 

3.  You __ will  __will not be required to furnish medical certification of a serious health condition.

If required, you must furnish certification by ____________(must be at least 15 days after  you are  notified of this requirement) or we may delay the commencement of your leave until the certification is submitted.

 

4.  You may elect to substitute accrued paid leave for unpaid FMLA leave.  We __will  __ will not require that you substitute accrued paid leave for unpaid FMLA leave.  If paid leave will be used, the following conditions will apply:


5(a).  If you normally pay a portion of the premiums for your health insurance, these payments will continue during the period of FMLA leave.  Arrangements for payment have been discussed with you and it is agreed that you will make premium payments as follows:

 

 (b).  You have a minimum 30-day grace period in which to make premium payments.  If payment is not made timely, your group health insurance may be canceled, provided we notify you in writing at least 15 days before the date that your health coverage will lapse, or, at our option, we may pay your share of the premiums during FMLA leave, and recover these payments from you upon your return to work.  We __will __will not pay your share of health insurance premiums while you are on leave.

 

 (c).  We __will  __will not do the same for other benefits while you are on FMLA leave.  If we do pay your premiums for other benefits, when you return from leave you __will  __will not be expected to reimburse us for payments made on your behalf.

 

6.  You __will  __will not be required to present a fitness-for-duty certificate prior to being restored to employment.  If such certification is required but not received, your return to work may be delayed until certification is provided.

 

7(a).  You __are  __are not a “key employee” as described in SS 825.218 of the FMLA regulations.  If you are a “key employee”, restoration to employment may be denied following FMLA leave on the grounds that such restoration will cause substantial and grievous economic injury to us.

 

 (b).  We __have  __have not determined that restoring you to employment at the conclusion of FMLA leave will cause substantial and grievous economic harm to us.  Explanation:

 

8.  While on leave, you __will  __will not be required to furnish us with periodic reports every ____________ of your status and intent to return to work (see SS 825.309 of the FMLA regulations).   If the circumstances of your leave change and you are able to return to work earlier than the date indicated on the reverse side of this form, you __will  __will not be required to notify us at least two work days prior to the date you intend to report for work.

 

9.  You __ will  __will not be required to furnish recertification relating to a serious health condition. 

 

Adopted:                December 14, 1999

Reviewed:                January 22, 2002


File:  GCF

 

PROFESSIONAL STAFF HIRING

 

                The following procedure has been developed in an attempt to insure that the best possible candidate is nominated for any given position in MSAD No. 9.  This procedure is developed to best meet the statutory obligation regarding nomination of teachers.

 

Announcement of Vacancies

 

                The following steps shall be taken after the obligations of the Comprehensive Contract have been met:

 

                Vacancies occurring in MSAD No. 9 may be advertised through publications in various newspapers to insure statewide coverage.

 

                Vacancies may be reported to state and college placement services serving the State, if appropriate.

 

                The application period shall remain open for a sufficient period of time to insure that all candidates have an opportunity to be considered.

 

Criteria

 

                Prior to any screening, criteria for the position under consideration shall be developed.  This will include, but not be limited to, educational background (specific preparations for the position), certification, experience, cocurricular directorship abilities, etc..

 

Applications

 

                Applications will be screened based upon the information contained on the application, an evaluation of the applicant's resume, a review of the transcripts, and a review of the candidate's recommendations.

 

                Screening of applications will be done by the appropriate administator(s) as determined by Central Office.

 

Interviews

 

                Candidates who meet the criteria established for the position shall be invited for interviews.  Interviews will be conducted by the appropriate administrator and select staff.  Interviews may also be extended to include Department Coordinators, Athletic Director, etc..

                                                                                                                                                                                     

                Interviewers will work independently and will initially rate candidates independently.

 

Pre-nominations

 

                Prior to the final selection of a candidate, references will be checked by phone.

 

                No candidate will be nominated unless the candidate meets with the approval of the Superintendent.

 

Nominations

 

                All nominations presented to the Board shall be presented in writing with a brief history of the candidate's academic background, educational experience, and any other information that may be useful.

 

Legal Reference:                TITLE 20A MRSA SEC. 13201 ET SEQ.

 

Adopted:                November 1978

Revised:                November 29, 1994

Revised:                November 25, 1997

Reviewed: January 22, 2002 


File: GCFB

 

RECRUITING AND HIRING OF ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF

In response to an Act to promote Equity of Opportunity for Women in Administrative Positions in the Public School System (PL 1990, Chap. 889), M.S.A.D. #9 Board of Directors affirms its commitment to the strict prohibition of discrimination in employment on the basis of race, national origin, religion, sex, age, or disability, and to the principle of affirmative action to obtain wide and representative candidate pools.    

In accordance with 20A MRSA SEC. 1001.13, the superintendent shall prepare a procedure designed to (1) ensure nondiscriminatory practice in recruitment and hiring for all positions requiring administrator certification, and (2) result in selection of the most qualified candidates. This procedure shall be attached hereto as regulation GCCA-R, and shall be reviewed periodically.

Moreover, upon each occasion of administrative vacancy, the superintendent shall review the procedure and make appropriate adaptations as may be warranted by special circumstances. In the case of a vacancy in the superintendency, the board shall review the procedure, adapting as appropriate.

Legal Reference:   PL 1990, Chapter 889 (Title 5 MRSA SEC. 45761, Title 20A MRSA SEC. 6; SEC. 254.8-10; SEC 256.1,7; SEC/ 1001.13, 14; SEC. 4502.4A;

SEC. 13011.6; SEC. 13019-A.ID; SEC. 13019- B.IC)

Cross Reference: AC -- NONDISCRIMINATION

Adopted:       February 29, 2000

Reviewed:                January 22, 2002

FILE: GCFB-R

  

RECRUITING AND HIRING OF ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF -- PROCEDURES

These procedures are designed to establish a thorough, efficient and nondiscriminatory practice for the recruiting and hiring of the most qualified candidates for administrative positions in M.S.A.D. #9. They implement board policy GCFB and are intended to be consistent with policy GCD (PROFESSIONAL STAFF HIRING).

A. Job Description Review

To ensure that a written job description of the vacant position accurately represents the current functions and needs, the superintendent/designee is to:

1.    Conduct a review of (if none exists, develop) the job description, with input from persons affected by the positions;

2.    Include the criteria (skills, knowledge, abilities required to perform the duties/responsibilities of the positions; and

3.    List the minimum qualifications (training, education, and experience) for the position. B. Recruitment

To attract a strong pool of qualified candidates, the superintendent/designee is to advertise (except in the circumstances described in K below) such as in:

 

1.                    Posting notice of the vacancy within the district;

 

2.                    Placing display advertisements in appropriate print media, including at least two appearances in the major weekend newspapers, and

 

3.             Identifying and notifying, if appropriate, other possible sources of potential candidates, such as professional associations, educational administration programs and placement offices at college and universities in Maine and other states, and the Maine Department of Education. 


C.            Screening

 

To ensure that a fair and efficient screening process will occur, the superintendent and Administrator Evaluation Committee are to:

 

1.             Ensure that all applications are reviewed by the Administrator Evaluation Committee with attention given to an unbiased regard for the criteria and qualifications in the job description;

 

2.             Provide orientation on confidentiality and equity issues to screeners;

 


 3.      Eliminate all applicants who do not meet the minimum qualifications;

     

d.                   Conduct preliminary reference checks, as appropriate;

 

    5.              Select candidates for interview based on the degree to which they meet the criteria and have demonstrated the skills, knowledge and abilities outlined in the job description;


 

6.                       Notify applicants not selected for interview.

 D. Interviewing

 

To ensure that the interview process will be conducted in a legal and proper manner, the superintendent and Administrator Evaluation Committee are to:

1.               Appoint an interview panel (persons may have also served in the screening function) with representation as deemed appropriate to the particular vacancy 

 

     2.               Provide orientation on the process, including the function and extent of responsibility of the panel, the  weighting   of   criteria   and   the    nomination/hiring procedure; and

 

                                    3.               Conduct training to ensure that panel members are aware of the legal aspects of interviewing, including confidentiality and equity issues.

The interview panel is to:

 

1 .                  Determine its own method and procedure f or rating and interviewing, including interview questions which match the criteria and the duties/responsibilities outlined in the job description; and

 

2.                   Provide equal opportunity for the candidates to respond to the same questions/questioners.

 

E.                 Selection

 

The interview panel is to:

 

1.                Individually assess the candidates according to their answers to the job description-related questions, related criteria, rating and commenting on each using a specially prepared form corresponding to  the questions/criteria;

 

2.                Present the strengths and weaknesses of each of the candidates interviewed to the Superintendent and Administrator Evaluation Committee.

 

The superintendent in consultation with the Administrator Evaluation Committee is to:

 

1.                Have references contacted and/or visits made,, as appropriate, to check perceived strengths and weaknesses of the candidates;

 

2.                Review the material on the finalist candidates to determine whether additional information is needed;

 

3.  Conduct additional interviews of any or all finalists, as deemed necessary;

 

F. Nomination/Employment

 

The superintendent is to:

 

1.                Notify and obtain agreement of the successful candidate, pending formal board approval.

 

2.                Inform the Administrator Evaluation Committee;

 

3.                Proceed to nominate and employ the successful candidate in accordance with the state law and local policies.

 

G. Notification

The superintendent/designee may:

 

            1.  Notify the nominee of the board approval and employ the administrator;

 

2. Notify the other candidates interviewed.

 

 

 

 

H. Orientation and Support

 

To ensure that the new administrator is provided with the proper information about the system and job expectations, the superintendent/designee is to provide an orientation that includes expectations of the duties/responsibilities of the position along with the policies and procedures of the district.

 

I. Record Keeping

 

To ensure that the confidentiality of employee and applicant records are properly maintained, the superintendent is to provide for the secure maintenance of all applications and documentation of the hiring, screening and interview process for a period of three (3) years.

 

J.  Confidentiality

 

To ensure that confidentiality is maintained throughout and permanently following the hiring process, the Board of Directors, all employees involved, and any other participants are to maintain absolute confidentiality about candidates, including names, in accordance with Maine state law (Title 20A-6101).  The board is to assume responsibility through the superintendent for providing adequate orientation at appropriate stages of the process, including at the completion.

 

K.                Hiring of Current Employees

               

M.S.A.D. #9 may forego one or more of the steps set forth in sections B through E of this procedure and appoint a person who is currently employed by the district to fill an administrative position only if the superintendent, after consultation with the Administrator Evaluation Committee, and board, or the board – as appropriate determines that the following circumstances exist:

 

1.                The currently employed candidate is exceptionally well qualified for the position; and

 

2.                The decision to forego all or part of the recruitment and screening process will not detract from the goals of this policy.

 

Adopted:                February 29, 2000

Reviewed:                January 22, 2002        

File:  GCFC

 

TEACHING CERTIFICATION

 

Support System

 

The MSAD No. 9 support system has been established to:

 

                A.                Provide effective support services to assist teachers with provisional certificates in developing good teaching and classroom management skills;

 

                B.                Provide assistance and review to individuals who are candidates for higher level certification; and,

 

                C.                Assist all teachers in their professional development.

 

                MSAD No. 9 will follow the procedures outlined in Maine statute and State Board of Education rules for the appointment and approval of the support system and support teams.

 

Teacher Action Plan

 

                Also in accordance with Maine statute, a teacher action plan shall be developed by the support system for each teacher who seeks higher level certification.  The teacher action plan shall contain the basis for the recommendation of the support system regarding higher level certification.  The plan shall be considered an employee record and shall be kept, as such, confidential.

 

Renewal of Certification

 

                The MSAD No. 9 support system shall make a recommendation in accordance with Maine statute for each teacher seeking renewal of a professional contract.  Prior to receiving a positive recommendation from the support system, each teacher seeking a five-year renewal of their certificate shall comply with the requirements of the statute and related State Board of Education rules.

 

 

Legal Reference:                 TITLE 20A MRSA Sec. 13011

 

Adopted:                1988 (as GCDA)

Reviewed:                January 22, 2002


         

File:  GCGB

 

ARRANGEMENTS FOR PROFESSIONAL STAFF SUBSTITUTES

 

Substitute teachers will receive a daily rate determined by the Board except:

 

            A.            After a substitute has served for five (5) consecutive days in the same position, the substitute shall receive an additional amount per day, as determined by the Board, from the sixth day through the tenth day.

 

            B.            After a substitute has served ten (10) consecutive days in the same position, the substitute shall be placed on BA level scale, Step 0 without fringe benefits.

 

After a substitute has served ten (10) consecutive days in the same position and if the substitute teacher has valid current Maine teaching certifications for the position in which substituting, the substitute shall be placed on the appropriate salary schedule up to and including Step 5 and without fringe benefits.

 

C.            Long-term substitutes:

 

In a situation when it is known that the substitute will be a long-term substitute, it is possible for the substitute to be put on the appropriate salary schedule (See Sub-Paragraph B) from the first day, based on written application of the principal and signed approval of the Superintendent.  This may actually be accomplished in a retroactive manner. 

 

Other benefits for long-term substitutes who are scheduled to work or work more than ninety (90) days in a long-term substituting position:

 

a.               single health insurance cover at the percentage coverage provided by the District for teaching staff.

 

                                    .            assistance with the cost of courses/workshops directly related to the position and that have prior approval of the building administrator and superintendent.

 

                                    .            up to fifteen sick days (pro-rated based upon the number of days worked.

 

                        .            Vacancies that occur and are filled prior to November 1st.

 

Individuals who fill vacancies by someone resigning or leaving the employment  of MSAD #9 shall receive a probationary contract provided he/she is currently fully certified to fill the position taken.  He/she must be employed and working prior to November 1st.  Anyone hired to fill a vacancy listed in sections A-C on or after November 1st shall be treated as a long-term substitute irrespective of certification status.

                                     

Legal Reference:  TITLE 20A MRSA SEC. 13402.

Adopted:            January 13, 1987

Revised:            December 10, 1991

Revised:            November 29, 1994

Revised:            June 17, 1997           

Reviewed:            January 22, 2002


File: GCID-E1

MAINE SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE DISTRICT NO.9

 

REQUEST FOR ATTENDANCE AT PROFESSIONAL

CONFERENCE/MEETING/WORKSHOP

 

Submit to Building Principal prior to conference/meeting/workshop

 

 

 

PERSON REQUESTING_______________________________ POSITION_______________________________

 

SCHOOL:____________________________________________________________________________________

 

NAME/SPONSOR:_____________________________________________________________________________

 

SUBJECT:____________________________________________________________________________________

 

LOCATION:_________________________________________DATE(S):_________________________________

 

ESTIMATED BUDGET:                               Travel:_________________________

                                                                Meals:_________________________

                                                                Housing:_______________________

                                                                Registration:____________________

                                                                Other: (Explain)_________________

 

                                                TOTAL REQUEST: $___________________

 

DATE(S) A SUBSTITUTE WILL BE NEEDED:_____________________________________________________

 

DEPARTURE TIME:___________________________________________________________________________

 

My purpose in attending is:_______________________________________________________________________

 

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

 

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

 

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

 

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

 

 

_____________________________________________                  ____________________________________

Signature of person making request                                                                   Date request prepared

 

 

Revised 6/9/00


Reviewed: January 22, 2002



Vendor# ________________

TO BE COMPLETED BY THE SUPERVISOR AND SIGNED APPROPRIATELY

 

                Of the dollars requested, the following amount is approved from:

 

                ______                This building’s conference budget:  $________________________________________________

 

                ______  Grant:  Grant Number:  __________________________ $________________________________

 

                ______  Other:_______________________  $_________________________________________________

 

                                Substitute paid by the District:  ______Grant:  ______  Other:  _____

 

                                Approved:  ______________  Not approved:  ___________________

 

                                Signed by Supervisor:  _____________________________________

 

                                Signed by Grant Coordinator:  _______________________________

 

TO BE COMPLETED BY SUPERINTENDENT:

 

                                Permission to Attend:  Granted:  ______  Denied:  ________________

 

                                Signed:  ______________________________________________     Date:  __________________

 

TO BE COMPLETED FOLLOWING THE CONFERENCE/MEETING/WORKSHOP

 

                                The following section must be completed for REIMBURSEMENT OF EXPENSES. 

                                RECEIPTS to cover expenses must accompany this request.

 

                           *Pay to:___________________________________________Date:____________________

 

                                List Expenses:                                                                                            Cost:

 

                                Miles______________________________                                  $______________________

 

                                Meals                                                                                           $______________________

 

                                Housing :                                                                                     $______________________

 

                                Registration:                                                                                $______________________

 

                                Tolls:                                                                                           $______________________

 

                                Other_______________________________                             $______________________

 

TOTAL REIMBURSEMENT:  $______________________

 

 

Signature: ____________________________________________________    Date:_______________________

 

Supervisor: ___________________________________________________    Date:_______________________

 

Grant Coordinator:_____________________________________________     Date:_______________________

 *If reimbursement should be made to more than one payee, please make a copy of this form for each additional payee.


 

File: GCID-E2

Please submit this form to your principal/supervisor on a MONTHLY BASIS at the beginning of each month.
MAKE CHECK PAYABLE TO:    
 
 
Any travel outside of the district must be accompanied by an explanation.
MO. DAY YR.   DESTINATION (TO-FROM)       MILES
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
                                    TOTAL MILEAGE  
SIGNATURE_________________________________________________________ _______________________
APPROVED BY:          Acct. Number ________-580              TOTAL $
(principal/supervisor)
Revised 3/26/00
Reviewed: January 22, 2002

File:  GCID-R

 

PROFESSIONAL STAFF VISITATIONS AND CONFERENCES - REGULATIONS

 

                The following procedure will be used to determine attendance at conferences and conventions:

 

                Providing it is in the best interest of the school, each teacher may be given the opportunity to attend an educational conference, workshop, or special school visitation program in the area of his or her major teaching field.  The School District will reimburse expenses for travel, room, meals, and other necessary expenses involved.

 

                These funds are not to be transferred from one individual to another.  All requests to attend a conference must be made in writing to the principal and the Superintendent of Schools before permission will be granted.

 

                The Superintendent of Schools shall administer this regulation, assuring that the teachers from all subject matter areas and all teaching levels are given equal opportunities.  (See Contractual Agreement between SAD #9 Board and the SAD #9 EA.)

 

 

Adopted:                  September 1978 (as GCLA-R)

Reviewed:                January 22, 2002

File:  GCID-R2

 

ATTENDANCE AT NATIONAL CONFERENCES

 

            Attendance at any national conference held outside the State of Maine will be determined as follows:

 

Principals/Assistant Principals

 

            A. The Assistant Superintendent will annually budget a reasonable amount of money to cover a reasonable number of conferences.

 

            B. First choice will be given to one (1) elementary, one (1) high school, and one (1) middle level administrator.

 

            C. The same person may not attend two (2) national conferences in one (1) year or attend in two (2) successive years if others wish to be in the conference attendance rotation.

 

Director of Special Services; Coordinator of Gifted/Talented/Enrichment Program; Director of Volunteer Program; Director of Food Services; Director of Support Services

 

            A. Funds will be budgeted for any national conferences in the following year and such budget item discussed with the Superintendent of Schools at budget time.

 

            B. Except in unusual circumstance, no more than two (2) persons shall be granted approval to attend national conferences in any fiscal year.

 

            C. The same person may not attend two (2) national conferences in one (1) year or attend in two (2) successive years if others wish to be in the conference attendance rotation.

 

Athletic Director; Music Director; Guidance Director

 

            A. Funds for national conferences in the following year will be budgeted and only placed in the budget after approval by the Assistant Superintendent of Schools.

 

            B. One (1) person shall be allowed to attend a national conference each year from this group if funds are budgeted at the appropriate time.

 

            C. The same person may not attend two (2) successive years if others wish to be in the conference attendance rotation.


 

 

Teachers

 

            A. The Assistant Superintendent of Schools shall annually budget funds for a reasonable number of teachers to attend the National ASCD Conference, or its equivalent.

 

            B. Those persons shall be identified by the Assistant Superintendent of Schools using a process related to instructional improvement and staff development.  To be eligible for this designation, the recipient must be a full time classroom teacher in MSAD No. 9.

 

Determination of National Conference Priorities

 

            A. National conferences which address instructional goals and/or objectives of MSAD No. 9 shall be given the highest priority.

 

            B. National conferences which will specifically improve the performance of the attendee upon return shall be accorded the next highest priority.

 

 

 

Adopted:            September 15, 1988

Revised:            November 29, 1994

Reviewed:            January 22, 2002

File:  GCI-R

PROCEDURE ON PERSONNEL DEVELOPMENT 

 

            MSAD No. 9 shall endeavor to implement and use the Maine State Comprehensive System of Personnel Development, as applicable to the local school unit.  Toward that end, representatives of MSAD No. 9 shall participate in meetings scheduled by the Department of Education for the school unit to address its obligations under the Comprehensive System of Personnel Development.  A school administrator shall be designated to receive and review material from the Department of Education regarding implementation and use of that comprehensive system.

 

Adopted:            August 11, 1992

Reviewed:            November 30, 1995


File:  GCK

 

PROFESSIONAL STAFF ASSIGNMENTS AND TRANSFERS

 

                Applications from within the system for any open position will be given first consideration.  The right is reserved, however, to open the position to outside candidates if it will be in the best interest of the system.  The following criteria shall be used:

 

                A.                The contribution the staff member could make to students in new position;

 

                B.                The staff member's qualifications compared