Managing
The
Mandatories
Charlotte Public Schools
Employee Handbook
2005-2006
EMPLOYEE IDENTIFICATION BADGES
Starting with the 2005-06 school year, all CPS employees are expected to have and wear on
a daily basis, an Employee Identification (ID) Badge. The ID badge will be provided by the
respective student picture contractor at the various buildings throughout the district. Staff are
required to get a photo ID with their name, building or department identified, and their
positional assignment included annually at the start of each school year. (The ISD is able to
produce the badges should an employee miss the photo opportunity at the building level).
This initiative is another effort to increase safety and security within the school district.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY
Policy Objective
Sexual harassment is unlawful under both Michigan and federal law and is contrary to the
commitment of this District to provide an effective learning environment. The District policy
prohibits sexual harassment of students, employees, Board members, volunteers, contractors
or applicants for employment by students, employees, Board members, volunteers, or
contractors. The District will not tolerate sexually harassing behavior as defined by law
and/or by District policy, false reports of sexual harassment or retaliation against persons
reporting such allegations of sexual harassment or cooperating in the investigation of such
complaints.
All supervisors are responsible for eliminating any and all forms of sex harassment and
intimidation of which they are, or reasonably should be aware. The District does not
discriminate on the basis of sex in the educational programs or activities which it operates
and is required by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and implementing
regulations (as well as other applicable statutes) not to discriminate in such a manner.
Definition of “Sexual Harassment”
“Sexual Harassment”: is prohibited and is defined as:
(A) Unwelcome sexual advances; or
(B) Requests for sexual favors; or
(C) Other verbal or physical conduct or communication of an intimidating, hostile, or
offensive sexual nature when:
(1) Submission to such conduct or communication is made either explicitly or
implicitly a term or condition of employment or application, or in the student’s
educational status, receipt of educational benefits or services, or participation in
school activities; or
(2) Submission to or rejection of such conduct or communication by an individual is
used, explicitly or implicitly, as a basis for decisions affecting employment, the
student’s educational status, receipt of educational benefits or services, or
participation in school activities or
(3) Such conduct or communication has the purpose or effect of unreasonably
interfering with employment, the student’s education, or creating an intimidating,
hostile, or offensive environment.
Sexual harassment does not refer to behavior or occasional compliments of a socially
acceptable nature. It refers to behavior which is unwelcome, which is personally offensive,
which fails to respect the rights of others, or which otherwise creates an intimidating, hostile,
or offensive employment or educational environment.
Forms of Prohibited Sexual Harassment
Prohibited forms of sexual harassment include, but are not limited to:
(A) Verbal – Sexual innuendoes, suggestive comments, rumors, or jokes of a sexual
nature, sexual propositions, threats or promises of preferential treatment in return for
sexual favors. Suggestions or demands for sexual involvement that are
accompanied by implicit or explicit threats concerning employment or a student’s
educational status (including grades, graduation, participation in curricular or
extracurricular activities, or other school-related matters).
(B) Non-verbal – Sexually suggestive objects or pictures, graphic commentaries,
suggestive or insulting sounds, whistling, or obscene gestures. Use of District
equipment or facilities to reproduce or disseminate sexual cartoons, jokes or other
objects or pictures is prohibited.
(C) Physical – Unwanted and/or unwelcome physical contact of a sexual nature,
including, but not limited to, touching, patting, pinching, brushing against coerced
sexual intercourse or assault.
Verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature may constitute sexual harassment when the
allegedly harassed employee or student has indicated, by his or her conduct, that it is
unwelcome.
An employee who has initially welcomed such conduct by active participation must give
specific notice to the alleged harasser that such conduct is no longer welcome in order for
any such subsequent conduct to be deemed unwelcome.
The Board of Education prohibits any conduct of a sexual nature directed toward students by
teachers, employees, Board members, volunteers, contractors and others to whom this policy
applies and shall presume that any such conduct is unwelcome.
Penalties
All employees, Board members, students, volunteers, and contractors of the District are
required to comply with this policy. Appropriate disciplinary action designed to stop the
harassment immediately and to prevent its recurrence will be taken against persons who
violate this policy.
(A) Discipline imposed upon students for violation of this policy may include suspension
or expulsion, depending upon the nature and severity of the offense. Sexual
harassment under this policy may also be regarded and punished as a violation of
other rules of student conduct prohibiting assault, battery, threats, fighting,
intimidation and/or other misconduct.
(B) Discipline imposed upon an employee for violation of this policy may include warning,
written reprimand, transfer, suspension, or dismissal depending upon the nature and
severity of the offense. When an employee is covered by a collective bargaining
agreement, discipline shall be assessed according to the procedures and standards
contained therein.
(C) Volunteers and contractors violating this policy may be subject to exclusion from
school facilities, programs, and activities. The District reserves the right to
discontinue any contracted services or commercial relationship with any contractor,
vendor, or other service provider found to have violated this policy.
(D) Discipline imposed upon the Board members for violations of this policy may include
removal from Board offices, written notice of censure or other appropriate action.
(E) When appropriate, referral for criminal investigation and prosecution may be made.
(F) Employees may be subject to discipline for failure to notify the Coordinator of sex
harassment which has been observed or reported to them.
5. Complaints of sexual harassment discrimination shall be filed in accordance
with Complaint Procedure Policy No. 4016.11-R for investigation. Associate
Superintendent for Instruction shall conduct investigation.
Complaints of harassment shall be maintained as confidential to the extent authorized by
law and in accordance with relevant labor agreements. Employees reporting harassment
may not be subject to retaliation for the sole reason of making a report or filing a
complaint. Employees need not report harassment if by a supervisor to that supervisor.
Blood Borne Infectious Diseases
Universal Precautions
In the Schools, universal precautions shall be observed in order to prevent contact with blood
or other potentially infectious materials (OPIMS). All blood and other potentially
contaminated body fluids shall be considered to be infectious. Under circumstances in which
differentiation among body fluid types is difficult or impossible, all body fluids shall be
considered potentially infectious materials.
Review of Hand Washing Procedures
Hand washing is one of the most important steps in infection control. Proper hand washing
procedures include:
Use warm water.
Wetting hands and wrists.
Applying liquid (nonabrasive) soap to palms first and lathering well.
Spreading lather to hands and wrists.
Scrubbing, paying close attention to fingernails and between fingers (scrubbing time
and minimum of 15 seconds) and rinsing well.
Drying hands completely to prevent chapping.
Turning faucet off utilizing disposable towels (if available).
The district provides hand washing facilities which are readily accessible to employees, or
when provision for hand washing facilities is not feasible, the district provides upon request,
either an appropriate antiseptic hand cleanser in conjunction with clean paper towels or
antiseptic towelettes.
Housekeeping/Waste Procedures
This district strives to ensure that the work site is maintained in a clean and sanitary
condition. All equipment, materials, environmental and working surfaces shall be cleaned
and decontaminated immediately after contact with blood or other potentially infectious
materials.
Contaminated work surfaces shall be decontaminated with an appropriate disinfectant
immediately after completion of procedure/task/therapy, or as soon as feasible, when
surfaces are overtly contaminated or after any spill of blood or other potentially infectious
materials, and at the end of the school day if the surface may have become contaminated
since the last cleaning.
Protective coverings, such as the big red plastic bags, aluminum foils, or other
imperviously backed absorbent paper with a biohazard label used to cover equipment and
environmental surfaces shall be removed and replaced as soon as feasible when the
become contaminated with blood or other potentially infectious materials (OPIM), or at the
end of the school day if they have become contaminated since the last cleaning.
All bins, pails, cans and similar receptacles intended for refuse which have reasonable
likelihood of OPIM shall be inspected and decontaminated on a regularly scheduled basis
and cleaned and decontaminated immediately or as soon as feasible upon visible
contamination.
Materials such as paper towels, gauze squares or clothing, or mop heads used in the
treatment or cleanup of blood or OPIM spills that are blood soaked or caked with blood shall
be bagged in a red biohazard bag and tied shut. The bag shall be removed from the site as
soon as feasible and placed in a designated trash bag, tied and carried to the dumpster. In
this district, bags designated as biohazard (containing blood or OPIM contaminated
materials) shall be red in color. Each employee shall have access to a biohazard bag.
Replacement bags shall be located in the school office and custodial closets.
What to Do in Case of a First Aid Incident
Use personal protective equipment. Gloves, soap, water, and hand lotion are provided in
each building. Frequent use of hand lotion aids in preventing small cuts in fingers. If you
are outside and there are no gloves available, grab the closest possible barrier; i.e., a
handkerchief, scarf, or even a shirt.
Call for assistance and report incident to the Associate Superintendent for Operations.
Instruct injured person on self-care of injury if possible.
Use a barrier (paper towel, cloth, dressing, etc.) in treating injury.
Dispose of material in appropriate container (red bag). These are available in each
building – see your building custodian.
Wash hands thoroughly.
Hepatitis B
One of the best ways to protect yourself from Hepatitis B is to be vaccinated. If you are
exposed immediately report this to your supervisor who will then contact the School
Wellness Coordinator on duty.
The School Wellness Coordinator will then contact you to:
(1) complete an incident report
(2) advise you of your right to have blood tests, if you choose
(3) provide information regarding post-exposure follow-up treatment (if available),
vaccines and follow-up counseling.
It is critical for the effectiveness of the vaccine that the incident be reported immediately.
We want you to protect yourself from blood borne diseases. We believe that by knowing the
facts and by taking reasonable precautions outlined here, you can protect yourself.
The Bullard-Plawecki Employee Right-To-Know Act
This Act permits employees to review personnel records, provides criteria for the review, and
prescribes information, which may be contained in personnel files, also, penalties for
noncompliance. According to the Act, a “Personnel Record” means a record kept by the
employer that identifies the employee, to the extent that the record is used or has been used,
or may affect or be used relative to that employee’s qualifications for employment, promotion,
transfer, additional commendation, or disciplinary action.
A personnel record shall not include
information identifying an employment reference
medical reports or information of a personal nature
investigation records, including grievance investigations
anecdotal records kept by the maker
any record of employee’s associations, including political, unless authorized by the
employee.
Review of a Personnel Record
An employee may review upon request at mutually convenient time
An employee may receive copies of his/her personnel record
An employee may request removal of information in personnel file:
by mutual agreement with employer
in a statement explaining employee’s position
Right-to-Know Law and Pesticides
We are concerned for the safety of the students, staff and community. Each building has a
notebook that contains information about every item the district purchases that contains
chemicals that a person may have a reaction to. The forms in the notebook list the active
ingredients; poison control information and phone numbers that will assist you in an
emergency arises.
If you are sensitive to certain chemicals, you may wish to review the information. It is
available should any situation arise with a staff member, student or building or building visitor
where they have been exposed to a substance. Check with your building principal or
immediate supervisor as to the location of this information at your worksite.
Occasionally, we need to use chemicals to help control pests in the building. We try to use
non-chemical means whenever possible. When we do need to use chemicals, we post a
notice in advance of the application. If you are chemically sensitive and wish individual
notice, please contact the Associate Superintendent for Operations at 541-5100.
Drug Free Workplace
All schools are bound by federal law set in Title 41, Section 702, November 18, 1988.
Schools must certify that they provide a drug free environment by:
1. publishing a statement notifying employees that unlawful manufacture,
distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of a controlled substance is
prohibited in the workplace and speficying the actions that will be taken against
employees for violations of such prohibition;
2. establishing a drug-free awareness program to inform employees about the
dangers of drug abuse in the workplace, the school district’s policy of
maintaining a drug-free workplace, any available drug counseling, rehabilitation,
and employee assistance programs, and the penalties that may be imposed
upon employees and students for drug abuse violations;
3. making it a requirement that each employee be given a copy of the drug policy
statement; and that as a condition of employment the employee will abide by
the terms of the statement, and notify the employer of any criminal drug statute
conviction for a violation occurring in the workplace no later than 5 days after a
drug related conviction;
4. notifying the granting agency within 10 days after receiving notice of a
conviction;
5. imposing a sanction on, or requiring the satisfactory participation in a drug
abuse assistance or rehabilitation program by, any employee who is convicted;
and
6. making a good faith effort to continue to maintain a drug-free workplace through
implementation of the actions stated above.
Freedom of Information Act
The Freedom of Information Act regulates and sets requirements for disclosure of “public
records” by the district. This act has been the subject of several lawsuits.
When the district receives a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request, we have five (5)
business days to respond. “Public records” include written materials, photographs, materials
stored on computer discs or CD-ROM and any video or audiotapes. This wide definition has
been held to include copies of e-mail and voice mail if stored on a system. Thus, it is
important for you to realize that the email and voice mail systems you are using belong to the
district and the records that are generated are part of the “public record” of the district. Items
in your personnel file, including certification records, discipline and evaluations, are also
available under FOIA.
While lockers, file cabinets, email and voice mail may be provided for your convenience, you
need to understand that these remain the property of the district. Lockers and file cabinets
may be opened in your absence. Voice mail and email records may be maintained and
tracked. Use these tools wisely, with the idea that someone else may have access to them.
Student Confidentiality
State and federal law mandate confidentiality of student records and communications.
Employees, including non-teaching staffs, must not discuss student’s grades, conduct or
discipline with individuals who have no legitimate Right to Know about such matters.
Parents or legal guardians may authorize disclosure of student information. Individuals not
employed by the district other than law enforcement of FIA, generally have no legitimate
Right to Know about student matters. The unlawful disclosure of student information may
subject an employee to discipline up to and including discharge.
Student Disciplinary Measures – Corporal Punishment
The primary objective of student discipline is to produce a school environment which
complete attention may be directed of the teaching-learning activities. Discipline may be
defined as the control of conduct either by the self or by external authority. Discipline is
important in effectuating Charlotte Public Schools policies which emphasize learning in an
orderly school environment.
1. The policy of the Board of Education, as well as the law of the State of Michigan,
mandates that corporal punishment will not be used. Corporal punishment is defined
as the deliberate infliction of physical pain by hitting, paddling, spanking, slapping, or
any other physical force used as a means of discipline. Corporal punishment does not
include physical pain caused by reasonable physical activities associated with athletic
training.
2. A person employed by or engaged as a volunteer or contractor shall not inflict or
cause to be inflicted corporal punishment upon any pupil under any circumstances.
3. A person employed by or engaged as a volunteer or contractor may use reasonable
force upon a pupil as necessary to maintain order and control in a school or school-
related setting for the purpose of providing an environment conducive to safety and
learning. In maintaining that order and control, the person may use physical force
upon a pupil as may be necessary:
(a) To restrain or remove a pupil whose behavior is interfering with the orderly
exercise and performance of school district functions within a school or school-
related activity, if that pupil has refused to comply with a request to refrain from
further disruptive acts.
(b) For self-defense or the defense of another.
(c) To prevent a pupil from inflicting harm on himself or herself.
(d) To quell a disturbance that threatens physical injury to any person.
(e) To obtain possession of a weapon or other dangerous object upon or within the
control of a pupil.
(f) To protect property.
4. The use of reasonable physical contact, in order to handle an act of student
insubordination, should not involve enough discomfort to qualify as physical pain.
However, when a student violently reacts to prudent hands-on-assistance, a school
person may use reasonable force for the purposes articulated in paragraph three (3).
5. A person who inflicts corporal punishment as defined by this policy, or who uses
physical force for a purpose other than those articulated in paragraph three (3), may
be appropriately disciplined by the School Board.
6. In determining whether an employee, volunteer, or contractor has acted in accordance
with paragraph three (3), deference may be given to reasonable good-faith judgments
as determined by the Board made by that person.
7. Charlotte Public Schools Student Disciplinary Measures shall be enforced in the
classrooms, elsewhere on school premises, on a school bus or other school-related
vehicles, or at a school sponsored event whether or not it is held on school premises.
8. Attached is a list of alternatives to the use of corporal punishment.
9. Duty to report use of physical force. When a teacher or any employee has determined
to use physical force with a student, the teacher is required to report the matter
verbally to the school principal. The need for a written report concerning the teacher’s
use of physical force may be required by the principal. Whether or not the principal
requires you to complete the report form, it is always a good idea to record the who,
what, where, when and why of the circumstances in a note to yourself in case you
need to recall the details of the situation.
SOME ALTERNATIVES TO CORPORAL PUNISHMENT
The following alternatives to the use of corporal punishment are suggested in recognition of
the fact that corporal punishment was formerly used as a last resort; these alternatives
should be viewed as options which follow good school management policies and procedures:
1. Deny participation in special school activities.
2. Assign before and after school detention and provide twenty-four hour notice to
parents.
3. Establish communication and require conferences with parents.
4. Assign in-school suspension that is supervised by a responsible adult with
curricula-related activities to be performed by the student.
5. Assign out-of-school suspension.
6. Establish contractual agreements with disruptive students and their parents to
commit students to self-controlling behavior.
7. Refer the recidivistic student to a counselor, social worker and/or psychologist
on the local or intermediate level and coordinate services with other units of
state government, i.e. Public Health, Social Services, Mental Health, etc. Also
seek assistance from private institutions or agencies with appropriate services.
8. Evaluate and arrange proper placement of students who need academic
acceleration, special education, alternative education or services for achieving
English proficiency.
9. Consider and take appropriate action, in accordance with due process of law,
when disruptive behavior warrants the suspension or expulsion of a student.
Reporting Child Abuse/Neglect
The Child Protection Law (CPL) of 1975 requires school personnel, among others, to report
suspected cases of child abuse and neglect. The law also makes confidential such reports
other than with the consent of the person making the report or judicial process.
1. The following procedure must be used for reporting suspected abuse of a student:
a. Notify your immediate supervisor of the situation, including the following
information: student name, school, date of call to appropriate department.
b. Call the appropriate (child or adult) Protective Services Division of the Family
Independence Agency.
c. The person suspecting abuse will submit a written report to the Family
Independence Agency (FIA) within 72 hours.
2. The procedure to follow for reporting suspected neglect is as follows:
a. Immediately notify your supervisor regarding the following information: student
name, date of call to appropriate department.
b. The supervisor will involve the school social worker/counselor on an emergency
basis.
c. If the school social worker/counselor suspects neglect, the school social worker
will call the appropriate (child or adult) Protective Services Division of the
Family Independence Agency.
Ultimate responsibility to see that FIA gets the information, however, remains with the
individual initiating the report.
3. Failure to report – Section 13 imposes two penalties on individuals who fail to make
reports as required under the Act. First, a person who is required to report child abuse
or neglect and who fails to do so is civilly liable for damages caused by the failure to
report. (Section 13 (1) In other words, if the abuse is current and ongoing, failure to
act can render the individual liable for any damage caused by the abuser after that
individual had knowledge but failed to act.
In addition, a person who is required to report and knowingly fails to do so is guilty of a
misdemeanor. An employee who fails to report may also be subject to discipline by
the district.
Weapon Free School Zone
In order to insure a safe, orderly environment for quality learning to occur, the Michigan
Legislature enacted Public Act 328 which requires each board of education throughout the
State to expel any student for 180 school days, for grades 6-12, who possesses a dangerous
weapon or who commits arson or criminal sexual conduct in a school building or on school
ground. A “dangerous weapon” is defined as a firearm, dagger, dirk, stiletto, explosive, knife
with a blade over three inches in length, pocketknife operated by a mechanical device, iron
bar, brass knuckles, laser pointer, or any other instrument used with the intent to harm. This
law went into effect January 1, 1995. In addition, the Charlotte Board of Education will
consider expulsion for a student who possesses a look-alike firearm or weapon, such as a
paint gun or B B gun. This law and local board policy have been developed to protect each
student’s right to the fullest educational opportunity available with the school system.
Students will also be subject to disciplinary measures when in possession of an object in a
school building or on school grounds which can cause harm but does not fit the legal
definition of a weapon in Public Act 328.
An employee should immediately notify the supervisor of student on possession of a weapon
or any expellable offenses.
Civil Rights
Philosophy
The Charlotte Public Schools Board of Education complies with all state and federal laws and
regulations prohibiting discrimination, and will all requirements and regulations of the
Michigan U/S. Departments of Education. It is the policy of Charlotte Public Schools Board of
Education that no person on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, age,
sex, marital status, height or weight; or a qualified individual with a disability who satisfies the
requirements of the position, shall be discriminated against, excluded from participation in,
denied the benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination in any program or activity
for which it is responsible or for which it receives financial assistance from the Michigan or
the U.S. Department of Education. The Board shall provide notice of this policy to all
employees and students.
Title IX
No person(s) shall, on the basis of Sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the
benefits of, or be subject to discrimination under any education program or activity for which
financial assistance is received from the U.S. Department of Education.
Coordinator of Title IX:
Associate Superintendent for Curriculum
Charlotte Public Schools
378 State Street
Charlotte, MI 48813
517-541-5100
Section 504
No otherwise qualified handicapped person(s) shall, solely by reason of handicap, be
excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under
any program or activity for which charlotte Public Schools is responsible.
Coordinator for Section 504:
Special Education Director
Charlotte Public Schools
378 State Street
Charlotte, MI 48813
517-541-5100
Title VI
No person(s) shall, on the basis of race, color, or national origin, be excluded from
participating in, be denied the benefits of, or otherwise subjected to discrimination under any
program or activity for which Charlotte Public Schools is responsible.
Coordinator of the Title VI:
Associate Superintendent for Curriculum
Charlotte Public Schools
378 State Street
Charlotte, MI 48813
517-541-5100
Complaints of discrimination may be filed with the appropriate Coordinator for investigation.
FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT
ANNUAL NOTIFICATION OF RIGHTS AND
DESIGNATION OF DIRECTORY INFORMATION
Each year the Charlotte Public Schools, Eaton County, Michigan, is required to give
notice of the various rights accorded to parents or students pursuant to the Family
Educational Rights and Privacy Act (“FERPA”). Parents and eligible students have a right to
be notified and informed. In accordance with FERPA, you are notified of the following:
1. RIGHT TO INSPECT: You have the right to inspect and review substantially all
of your education records maintained by or at the Charlotte Public Schools. This right
extends to the parent of a student under 18 years of age and to any student age 18 or older.
2. RIGHT TO REQUEST AMENDMENT: You have the right to seek to have
corrected any parts of an education record which you believe to be inaccurate, misleading or
otherwise in violation of your rights. This right includes the right to a hearing to present
evidence that the record should be changed if a designated official of the Charlotte Public
Schools decides not to alter the education records according to your request. If no change is
made to the education record after the hearing, you have a right to place a written rebuttal in
the record.
3. RIGHT TO PREVENT DISCLOSURES: You have the right to prevent
disclosure of education records to third parties with certain limited exceptions. It is the intent
of the Board of Education to limit the disclosure of information contained in your education
records to those instances when prior or written consent had been given to the disclosure, as
an item of directory information of which you have not refused to permit disclosure, or under
the provisions of FERPA which allow disclosure without prior written consent.
4. RIGHT TO COMPLAIN: You have the right to file a complaint with the United
States Department of Education concerning the alleged failure of the Charlotte Public
Schools to comply with FERPA. Your complaint should be directed to:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
600 Independence Avenue SW
Washington, DC 20202-4605
5. RIGHT TO OBTAIN POLICY: You have the right to obtain a copy of the policy
adopted by the Board of Education in compliance with FERPA. A copy may be obtained in
person or by mail from:
Office of the Superintendent
Charlotte Public Schools
378 State Street
Charlotte, MI 48813
6. RIGHT TO OBJECT TO RELEASE OF DIRECTORY INFORMATION:
Generally, school officials must have written permission from the parent of a student or an
eligible student before releasing any information from a student’s record. However, FERPA
allows school districts to disclose, without consent, “directory” type information. The Board of
Education of the Charlotte Public Schools, Eaton County, Michigan has designated the
following personally identifiable information contained in a student’s education record as
“directory information”:
Student’s name, photograph, video tape of performances or events, grade level,
participation in officially-recognized sports and activities, weight and height of athletic team
members, student achievements, awards, recognitions, degrees, honors and awards
received
Unless you advise the District that you do not want any or all of this information
released, school officials may release personally identifiable information which it has
designated as directory information. Upon such objection, this information will not be
released without the prior consent of the parent or eligible student.
7. You have 2 weeks from the receipt of this notice to advise the District in writing
of any or all of those types of information about the student which you refuse to permit the
District to designate as directory information. Your objections should be addressed to:
Charlotte Public Schools
Human Resources
378 State Street
Charlotte, MI 48813
Or, you may submit your objection in a signed and dated electronic format. The objection
must identify and authenticate a particular person as the source of the electronic objection,
and indicate such person’s disapproval of any or all of those types of information about the
student which you refuse to permit the District to designate as directory information.
Electronic objections may be sent to savagem@charlottenet.org
8. MILITARY RECRUITING REPRESENTATIVES
High school students and their parents/guardians may prevent disclosure of a
student’s name, address, and telephone number to military recruiting representatives (who
can only use that information to provide information to students concerning educational and
career opportunities available in the U.S. Armed Forces of service academies) by submitting
a signed request to that effect using either of the above methods.
9. PROCEDURE FOR TRANSFERRING STUDENT DISCIPLINARY
RECORDS FROM OTHER DISTRICTS
The District’s procedure for transference of student disciplinary records is as
follows: parent shall fill out and sign a “Request for Educational Records & Affirmation of
Prior Discipline Record” form. This form shall then be returned to Charlotte Public Schools
Registrar’s office which will then forward this request to the prior district.
Charlotte Public Schools
Electronic Information and Equipment Access
For Educational Purposes
Charlotte Schools provides employees with access to computers, the Internet, e-mail,
phones, and numerous other technologies to provide support in educational endeavors,
classroom activities and procedures, and to provide an environment that allows for maximum
productivity.
All staff is required to have on file a signed copy of the Member Responsibility Declaration for
the Board approved Acceptable Use Policy indicating that you are familiar with the contents
of that board policy and you agree to abide by the responsibilities outlined. The full policy is
part of the “Managing the Mandatories” employee handbook and available on the District’s
web page in the Technology section.
The District’s networks including e-mail, Internet, voice mail, and computer files are not
private since smooth operation of these systems is dependent upon adherence to policies
and acceptable use practices along with the proper conduct of all users.
The district does employ an e-mail SPAM filter and an Internet Web Content Filter (in
accordance with the Child Internet Protection Act – CIPA) with limited success since there is
a fine line between blocking out all inappropriate or nuisance e-mail and websites and letting
in appropriate and necessary communications and research information.
If you should receive inappropriate e-mail, your best course of action is to delete it without
opening it if possible since opening it often sends a receipt notice to the sender notifying
them this is an active e-mail address. Do not try to unsubscribe since this usually is futile and
often leads to more SPAM. If you receive repeated identical SPAM, you can forward them on
to kubica@charlottenet.org and we will make sure that this is included in the e-mail filter logs
for future mail.
If you should happen upon an inappropriate web site, please quickly use the browser’s “back”
button to exit the site. If it won’t allow you to do this, close out the browser (Netscape or
Internet Explorer) and start over. All access to web sites is collected daily in a log that is
reviewed to identify sites that need to be added to the Internet Content filter. If you have
reason to suspect that a student under your supervision has intentionally accessed an
inappropriate site, providing the Tech Office with the date, time and the specific computer will
allow us to gather the activity history for review.
Accidental access to an inappropriate site is usually obvious based on the amount of time
recorded in the log. Repeated visitation to an inappropriate website or web pages that violate
the Use and Access Policy is considered another matter.
Phone bills and the district’s “call accounting system” record all outgoing calls and are
reviewed regularly. All personal phone calls should be made using a calling card.
Please be sure to use the district’s technology resources for educational endeavors and to
communicate with colleagues, students, and parents. If you have any questions or need
clarification about information contained in the Acceptable Use Policy, please contact the
Superintendent’s Office or the district’s Technology Office.
Technology Office August 24, 2004
Charlotte Public Schools
Acceptable Use Policy
Electronic Information Access and Use For Educational Purposes Policy
Charlotte Public Schools encourages the use of electronic information technologies in its
educational endeavors so that Users can access current and relevant resources, develop
information management skills, communicate in a technologically-rich environment, and
become responsible, self-directed, life-long learners.
In accordance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA), the District has implemented
this policy, in part, to:
A. promote the safe, ethical, responsible, and legal use of the Internet;
B. support the effective use of the Internet for educational purposes;
C. protect students against potential dangers in their use of the Internet; and
D. ensure accountability.
As property of the Charlotte Public Schools, the district’s electronic information technologies
are intended for educational purposes and are neither a public access service nor a public
forum. Only Charlotte Public Schools students, faculty, and staff who agree to the terms of
this policy may be granted a network/charlottenet account.
Users have no expectation of privacy as to information or activity on the District’s electronic
information technologies. The District retains the right to monitor all use, including but not
limited to personal e-mail and voice mail communications, computer files, databases, web
logs, audit trails, or any other electronic transmissions accessed through the District’s
electronic information technologies.
The District’s electronic information technologies are provided on an “as is, as available”
basis and are provided without warranties (either express or implied) of any kind for any
reason.
Policy Definitions
Equipment includes, but is not limited to computers, disk drives, printers, scanners, networks,
video and audio recorders, cameras, photocopiers, phones, and other related electronic
resources.
Software includes, but is not limited to computer software, print and non-print resources.
Networks include, but are not limited to all voice and data systems.
User includes anyone who is accessing or using District equipment, software, or networks.
Educational purposes include but are not limited to the use of the District’s electronic
information technologies for classroom activities, continuing education, professional or career
development, and high-quality, educationally enriching personal research.
Harmful to minors means “any picture, image, graphic image file, or other visual depiction
that (1) taken as a whole and with respect to minors, appeals to a prurient interest in nudity,
sex, or excretion; (2) depicts, describes, or represents, in a patently offensive way with
respect to what is suitable for minors, an actual or simulated sexual act or sexual contact,
actual or simulated normal or perverted sexual acts, or a lewd exhibition of the genitals; and
(3) taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic political, or scientific value as to minors.
47 USC § 254(h)(7).
Inappropriate material includes but is not limited to materials that are harmful or inappropriate
to minors, obscene, pornographic, profane, vulgar, harassing, threatening, defamatory, or
otherwise prohibited by law. The determination of a materials’ “appropriateness” is based on
both the materials’ content and intended use.
Vandalism is any attempt to harm, destroy, disrupt, or hack the operation of the District’s
electronic informational technologies, including but not limited to the creation or intentional
receipt or transmission of computer viruses.
District Responsibilities
In managing the structure, hardware, and software that the Charlotte Public Schools use to
allow access to electronic information technologies for educational purposes, the District has
responsibilities to:
1. Provide resources to support the District’s mission for electronic information
technologies.
2. Purchase, maintain, and repair network equipment, hardware, and software.
3. Provide training and information on new technologies, software, and media as they are
put into District use.
4. Develop and implement an Electronic Information Access and Use Policy, which
defines the User’s rights and responsibilities and complies with the Children’s Internet
Protection Act.
5. Develop and enforce use regulations at each network site.
6. Set quota limits for disk usage by Users of the District’s servers.
7. Designate a System Administrator to manage the District’s electronic information
technologies and implement the Electronic Information Access and Use Policy.
8. Implement procedures to: monitor the online activities of minors; protect the safety and
security of minors when using e-mail, chat rooms, and other forms of direct electronic
communications; address unauthorized access including “hacking” and other unlawful
online activities by minors; address unauthorized disclosure, use and dissemination of
personal information about minors; restrict minors’ access to material which is harmful
to minors. [Note: These provisions are required by CIPA.]
9. Implement filtering and blocking software that has a technology protection measure
which will protect against Internet access by adults to visual depictions that are
obscene or child pornography, and by minors to visual depictions that are obscene,
child pornography, harmful to minors , or that the District determines is inappropriate
for minors.
a. The determination of a material’s “appropriateness” is based on both the
material’s content and intended use, not solely on the actions of the technology
protection measure.
b. If a User believes that a technology protection measure has prevented access
to otherwise appropriate material, the User may request the System Administrator
to review the material and unblock the material consistent with District procedures.
c. The filtering software operates only within the District wide area network (WAN)
or local area network (LAN), and does not operate through dial-up access.
10. Establish procedures for the System Administrator to disable or modify any technology
protection measure under specified circumstances.
11. Exercise editorial control over all web pages created through the District’s electronic
information technologies, which will be subject to treatment as District-sponsored
publications.
System Administrator Responsibilities
1. In managing the District’s electronic information technologies and implementing the
Electronic Information Access and Use Policy, the System Administrator shall make
the final determination as to whether the User violated the District’s Acceptable Use
Policy.
2. To preserve network integrity or to investigate suspected unauthorized activity, the
System Administrator may:
a. Review technology audit trails on a routine basis
b. View, modify, or remove a User’s electronic mailbox
c. Monitor a User’s online activities
d. Temporarily remove a User’s account
3. Upon determination of unauthorized activity in violation of the District’s Acceptable Use
Policy, the System Administrator shall preserve evidence of the violation is digital
and/or hard copy form and inform the designated administrator. Related to such a
determination, the System Administrator may also;
a. Freeze or close a User’s account
b. Delete files and messages
c. Recommend disciplinary consequences
4. In compliance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act, the System Administrator
may temporarily disable the District’s technology protection measures only for the
purpose of bona fide research or other lawful purpose by an authorized adult user.
Staff Responsibilities
1. Supervise student use of the District’s electronic information technologies in a manner
that is appropriate to the student’s age and the circumstances of network use in
compliance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act.
2. Report any suspected violations, security system failures and/or difficulties to their
building tech support staff or the System Administrator.
3. Model appropriate use of the District’s electronic information technologies for
educational endeavors.
4. Use the District’s electronic information technologies on a regular basis for internal
District communication and communication with parents.
Charlotte Public Schools will implement filtering software intended to block minors’ access to
materials that are obscene, child pornography, harmful to minors, or that the District
determines to be inappropriate for minors. The District does not guarantee that filtering will
control users access to such materials, or that users will not have access to such materials
while using the District’s information technologies. The filtering software operates only within
the District wide area network (WAN) or local area network (LAN) and does not operate when
using dial-up-access.
The District does not take responsibility for resources located or actions taken by the users
that do not support the purposes of the School District.
It shall be the responsibility of all members of the District staff to supervise and monitor usage
of the online computer network and access to the Internet in accordance with this policy and
the Children’s Internet Protection Act.
User Privileges
User has the privilege to:
1. Use the District’s electronic information technologies for which they have received
training to facilitate learning and enhance educational information exchange.
2. Access information from district networks, the Internet, and outside resources to
retrieve information to facilitate learning and enhance educational information
exchange.
User Responsibilities
Users have the responsibility to:
1. Use the District’s electronic information technologies only to facilitate learning and
enhance information exchange consistent with educational purposes.
2. Attend appropriate training sessions in the use and care of hardware, software, and
network peripherals.
3. Seek instruction for the use of any available technology for which the User is not
familiar.
4. Comply with the rules set forth in this policy, as well as the rules established for using
hardware, software, labs, and networks.
5. Maintain the privacy of passwords, which shall not be published, shared, or otherwise
disclosed.
6. Promptly notify a school official if you identify a possible security problem.
7. Access only the network account for which the User is authorized.
8. Use e-mail, chat, instant messaging, and other forms of two-way electronic
communications only for educational purposes and only under the direct supervision of
an adult.
9. Promptly notify a school employee about any electronic message you receive that is
inappropriate or makes you feel uncomfortable.
10. Scan all electronic media for virus, dirt, damage, or other contamination before using
in District systems.
11. Maintain the integrity of the electronic messaging systems by deleting files/messages
which have exceeded their established limit, reporting any security violations, and
making only those contacts which facilitate learning and enhance educational
information exchange.
12. Keep inappropriate material from entering the district’s network or from being
reproduced or distributed in visual, digital, or written format.
13. Comply with all applicable state and federal laws, including copyright, trademark laws
and applicable licensing agreements, in using the District’s electronic information
technologies.
14. Exercise caution when considering the purchase of goods and services over the
Internet. The User, not the Charlotte Public Schools, accepts full responsibility for any
financial obligations made or personal information provided while using the District’s
electronic information technologies.
15. Make financial restitution for unauthorized expenditures or for damages caused by
inappropriate use or access.
16. Protect any personal equipment that is used to access Charlotte Public Schools
information technologies.
17. Comply with the rules set forth in this policy, general District rules, and additional rules
as established by the District, Board of Education policies, staff manuals, department
procedures and student handbooks.
Users Prohibitions:
Users shall not:
1. Post or disclose personal identification information about yourself or others over the
Internet, even if this information is solicited by a web site that solicits such information.
2. Use technology to advertise, offer, or provide goods or services for financial gain.
3. Use technology for political lobbying: although Users may communicate opinions with
elected representatives.
4. Use District electronic information technologies to draft, send, or receive inappropriate
materials or to engage in behavior which violates District policy, including the student
code of conduct.
5. Vandalize District or other electronic information technologies.
Consequences of Inappropriate Behavior
Because access to the District’s electronic informational technologies is a privilege and not a
right, any User who does not comply with the Information Access and Use Policy will lose
access privileges. Repeated or severe infractions may result in permanent termination of
access privileges. Violators may also face additional disciplinary consequences consistent
with district policy.
Challenges
Challenges to District information technologies and resources shall be made in writing and
shall state the reasons for the challenge. A District appointed panel shall review the
challenge and determine its appropriateness.
Charlotte Public Schools
Acceptable Use Policy
Electronic Information Access and Use for Educational Purposes
Member Responsibility Declaration
Charlotte Public Schools has developed an Electronic Information Access and Use for Educational
Purposes Policy for using the Internet, local and wide area networks, computers and related technical and
audio visual equipment. Access and use of these technologies is a privilege for the User and must be used
responsibly in the pursuit of educational endeavors.
I have read, understand, and will abide by the Electronic Information Access and Use Policy located at
www.charlottenet.org/technology.htm and the Lab/Classroom-Computers/Equipment/Internet Use
Policy, and the applicable sections of the Student Handbook. I agree to be responsible for and abide by all
rules and regulations of these policies and handbook. I understand that should I commit any violation, my
privileges may be revoked, school disciplinary action and/or appropriate legal action may be taken.
User’s Signature:
Date:
(If you are a student of Charlotte Public Schools, a parent or guardian must also read and sign this
agreement)
Charlotte Public Schools has taken precautions to prohibit access to inappropriate materials. However, I also
recognize it is impossible for Charlotte Public Schools to restrict access to all inappropriate or copyrighted
materials and I will not hold them responsible for materials acquired on the network
I will instruct my child about any other access restrictions in addition to those set forth in District policies,
guidelines, and handbooks. I will emphasize to my child the importance of following the District rules for
personal safety.
Users are responsible for following instructions in the use and care of educational technology and should refrain
from using any technology for which they have not received instruction.
Users may be required to make full financial restitution for any damages to educational technology or
unauthorized expenses incurred through the use of educational technology.
I give permission for my child, under teacher supervision, to use available technologies and the Internet for
educational endeavors.
As the parent or guardian of this student, I have read the Electronic Information Access and Use Policy
located at www.charlottenet.org/technology.htm and the Lab/Classroom-Computers/Equipment/Internet
Use Policy and the applicable sections of the Student Handbook. I understand that this access is
provided for educational purposes.
Parent/Guardian Signature
Date: ________________________
CharlotteNet
Annual Membership Application
October 1, 2005 - September 30, 2006
Member Information
This is an application for a: (check all that apply)
Student ______ Class Account______ Employee ______ Work Access _______ Dial-up Access _____
(Students are those who are currently enrolled in the district in an academic program for the attainment of a diploma.)
Window version on home computer: 95’/98’ _____ ME _____ NT _____
2000 _____ XP _____ Other: _____
Name (full name - no aliases)______________________________________________________________________
FIRST MIDDLE LAST
Street Address_____________________________________________________________________________________
City_____________________________, MI_____Zip____________Birth Date_______/_______/________
Phone Numbers (Home)________________________________ (Work)___________________________________
Mother's maiden name (for security reasons) _______________________________________________________
If you are a student or employee, at which school or site? ________________________________________
Please read the following VERY carefully and follow the instructions EXACTLY
or your application cannot be processed!
Your Account will be identified by your login name. You must use the first six characters of your last name followed by your
first name initial. You must use all lower case letters. In the event of a duplicate login name request, middle initials will be
added as the eighth digit.
Your login name (all lowercase letters!)____________________________________________
Your electronic mail address will be your login name followed by: charlottenet.org
Applications will be processed upon receipt. Please allow 7 working days after we receive this Application for your account to
be established. You can tell if it has been established when your login name and password are accepted at the host login
prompt. Return completed Membership Application and Member Responsibility Declaration along with an Annual Non-
refundable Account Fee of $100.00 made payable to Charlotte Public Schools to:
Sharon Kubica Note: The Annual Account Fee offsets costs incurred for:
CharlotteNet Administrator 1) processing an application/establishing an initial account/providing an initial
Charlotte Administrative Offices orientation on the Internet and CPS Policy regarding its use;
378 State Street 2) providing ongoing security oversight of account use by the systems administrator
Charlotte, MI 48813 or designee;
fax: 517-541-5105 3) providing ongoing technical support.
This fee structure is subject to annual review to accommodate the volume of activity
on CharlotteNet. Yearly renewal requires payment of account fee only.
System Administrator: help@charlottenet.org
The Charlotte Public Schools is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity District.
PASSWORD:
Your password to access CharlotteNet should be known to you and no one else. You are responsible for all activity related to
this login account and your password is your protection. You must provide a password on this application. Should you lose or
forget your password, you will need to contact the System Administrator to request assistance. If you feel that someone else
has learned your password, change it immediately and notify the System Administrator. Allowing another person to use your
password is strictly forbidden and may result in cancellation of your account.
Guidelines:
The password must be a minimum of 6 characters and a maximum of 8 characters. Use a combination of letters and numbers.
No spaces. Passwords must contain at least one number.
1. Don't use your CharlotteNet ID, name, family names, initials, your department or office mate's name, your hobbies or
pets' names.
3. Avoid the use of sports or other activities in which you participate.
4. Make it something you can remember. Don't write it down!
5. Make it something you can type easily and quickly.
6. Avoid the use of nouns.
7. Don't use dates such as birthdays, anniversaries, etc.
8. Use a combination of letters and numbers. No spaces.
9. Upper and lower case letters may be used.
10. Your password must be entered exactly, including the correct upper and lower case letters.
11. Carefully distinguish uppercase from lowercase, l's from 1's (ones) and O's from 0's (zeros)
(Please circle UPPERCASE letters!)
Request for password____________________________________________________________
Signatures:
Please be sure to sign and date this application. By signing this application, you acknowledge you have received
and read the Use and Access Policy for the use of CharlotteNet and agree to use this service for educational
purposes only. As a member of CharlotteNet, you understand that changes are made occasionally to the Use and
Access Policy document and agree to abide by the current version of the document as posted electronically on
CharlotteNet. Any questions related to the Use and Access Policy should be directed to the System Administrator.
As a member of CharlotteNet, you agree that if you are unwilling to comply with any provision in the current Use
and Access Policy, you will immediately cease using CharlotteNet and contact the System Administrator to request
that your login account be closed. Any violation of the Use and Access Policy may result in the loss of
CharlotteNet access privileges and/or legal action against the individual(s).
Users have no expectation of privacy as to information or activity on the District’s electronic information technologies. The District retains the right to
monitor all use, including but not limited to personal e-mail and voice mail communications, computer files, databases, web logs, audit trails, or any other
electronic transmissions accessed through the District’s electronic information technologies.
Member
Signature___________________________________________________________Date_____/_____/_____
Parent
Signature___________________________________________________________Date_____/_____/_____
(required if Member is under 18)
District System Administrator Signature_______________________________________Date_____/_____/_____