Code of Conduct � Progressive Disciplinary Chart

Clearfield County Career and Technology Center 1620 River Road Clearfield, PA 16830 814-765-5308 STUDENT IDENTIFICATION Name Address Telephone Number Home School Program Non-Discrimination Policy.... *The Clearfield County Career and Technology Center will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, or handicap in its admissions procedures, educational programs and activities, or employment practices as required by Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504. For information regarding civil rights or grievance procedures, contact Lois A. Richards, Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504 Coordinator, at 1620 River Road; Clearfield, Pennsylvania 16830. (Phone 814-765-5308) For information regarding services, activities, programs, and facilities that are accessible to and usable by handicapped persons, contact Lois A. Richards, Executive Director, 1620 River Road Clearfield, Pennsylvania 16830. i CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook TABLE OF CONTENTS Student Identification Page Non-Discrimination Policy Table of Contents Letter to Students and Parents CCCTC Mission Statement Student Responsibilities Participating School Districts Professional Advisory Committee Joint Operating Committee Administration and Faculty Student Services Support Staff Guidance Counselor Maintenance Student Regulations and Policies Advancement Announcements and School News Arrival and Departure Times Asbestos Notice Assistance and Guidance Attendance Attendance at Home School Activities Behavior Breaks in the Instructional Day Bus Loading and Unloading Career-Technical Student Organizations Cell Phones Change of Address & Student Record Information 6 6 6 7 7 7 7 8 8 8 8 9 10 i i ii 1 2 2 3 3 3 3 5 5 5 ii CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook TABLE OF CONTENTS CONTINUED.... Cheating Clubs, Activities, and Sales Computer Usage Cooperative Education Credits Curriculum Review by Parents and Students Damage or Destruction of School Property Designated Pick-up by Parents Dismissal from the Career Center Dress and Appearance Guide Driving, Riding, and Parking Drugs and Alcohol Early Dismissal Emergency Forms Emergency Drills Falsifying School Forms FERPA (Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act) Field Trips First-Aid Service Food, Beverages, and Career Center Store Grading Grievances and Appeals Hall Passes Harassment Hazing Hearings Insurance Integrated Pest Management Internet Lockdown iii CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook 10 10 10 11 11 11 11 12 12 12 14 15 15 15 15 16 16 17 18 19 19 19 19 20 20 20 20 21 21 21 TABLE OF CONTENTS CONTINUED.... Lockers, Backpacks, and Searches Lost and Found Make-up Work Marketing Personal Belongings and Electronic Devices Records Report Cards Reporting to Class and Tardiness Respect Saturday Detention Safety Scheduling School Closing and Delays Storm Procedure Student and Parent Handbook Review Form Student Assistance Program (SAP) Student Performance Student Purchases Student Responsibilities Student Support Service Suspensions Telephones Terroristic Threats Textbooks, Tools, and Equipment Theft Tobacco Transportation Unpaid Debts Vehicle Repairs and Other Work Visitors iv CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook 22 22 22 22 23 23 23 23 24 24 24 24 25 25 25 25 25 26 26 26 26 27 27 28 28 28 29 29 29 29 Weapons Weapon Definitions APPENDIX A - Code of Conduct Disciplinary Chart B - Drug and Alcohol Policy C - School Calendar D - Computer Technology Acceptable Use Policy E – Admissions Criteria 30 30 31 32 35 36 41 v CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook August 27, 2008 Welcome to the Clearfield County Career and Technology Center . . . We are pleased you are attending the Career Center. In order to guarantee you the best career technical education possible, we have prepared this handbook for you and your parents. The information in this handbook is intended to familiarize you with student policies and procedures in effect at the Career Center. Our policies generally reflect those of your high school with some additions to better meet our needs. Please take the time to become familiar with the handbook. As students of the Career Center, you are responsible for your actions and behaviors. Please note that in a situation where the handbook contradicts school board policy, the policy shall prevail. We want your time at the Career Center to be a worthwhile and rewarding educational experience. Ultimately, the quality of the experience you have is your decision. Your success at the Career Center is directly related to your efforts. The harder you work and the more you apply yourself, the greater your chances for personal and workplace success. Set goals for yourself and expect to do well! Let us know if you have any questions. Have a great school year! Lois A. Richards Executive Director William Carbone Assistant Director 1 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook Mission Statement . . . The mission of the Clearfield County Career and Technology Center is to provide quality careertechnical education programs and services that prepare youth and adults for success in the workplace, postsecondary, and community, now and in the future. Basic Student Responsibilities... We sincerely believe that each student enrolled at the Career Center has a basic responsibility to: 1. Come to school regularly and on time. 2. Come to school with an interest and a desire to learn. 3. Cooperate with your instructor and fellow students. 4. Apply yourself; use your ability. 5. Be ambitious and painstaking in your work. 6. Look and act the part of the occupation. 7. Plan for yourself desirable and attainable goals. 8. Become a dependable, responsible person. 9. Be willing to accept criticism and profit from it. 10. Build group morale among fellow students; be extremely proud of the occupation for which you are preparing. These are the same ten basic responsibilities used by employers to evaluate their permanent and prospective employees. The choice is yours! We are very eager to help you secure an education that will lead to your becoming a successful, productive member of our society. The total amount of educational worth derived from school will be in direct proportion to the amount of effort put forth on your part. ―Give your very best and the very best will come back to you.‖ 2 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook PARTICIPATING PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SCHOOLS Clearfield Alliance Christian School Clearfield Area School District Curwensville Area School District Harmony Area School District Moshannon Valley School District Philipsburg-Osceola Area School District West Branch Area School District PROFESSIONAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE Clearfield Area School District TBA Curwensville Area School District Mr. Norman Hatten Harmony Area School District Mr. David Goodin Moshannon Valley School District Mrs. Cheryl Pataky Philipsburg-Osceola Area School District Mr. W. Charles Young West Branch Area School District Ms. Sandra Craft JOINT OPERATING COMMITTEE Clearfield Area School District Mr. Philip Carr - Chairperson Curwensville Area School District Mr. Kenneth Veihdeffer Harmony Area School District Mr. Tony Beltowski Moshannon Valley School District Mr. Joseph Dugan Philipsburg-Osceola Area School District Mr. James Smith West Branch Area School District Mr. Larry Allen JOC Secretary Mrs. Ronda Wisor ADMINISTRATION AND FACULTY Superintendent of Record 2008 TBA Executive Director Assistant Director Business Manager Executive Assistant Mrs. Lois A. Richards lrichards@ccctc.org Mr. William Carbone bcarbone@ccctc.org Ms. Kathie Malinich kmalinich@ccctc.org Mrs. Robin Dusch rdusch@ccctc.org 3 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook Administrative Support Staff Administrative Support Staff Adult Education Coordinator Adult Education Assistant Computer Technician/Audio-Visual Coordinator Administrative Assistant Architectural Drafting Automotive Mechanics Technology Carpentry and Building Construction Collision Repair Technology Cosmetology Culinary Arts & Food Management Diesel Equipment Maintenance Distributive Education & Marketing Diversified Occupations Electronics & Communications Technology Health Occupations Technology Mrs. Mary Ann Rafferty mrafferty@ccctc.org Ms. Bobbi Spencer bspencer@ccctc.org Mrs. Jenna Witherite jwitherite@ccctc.org Mrs. Holly Bressler hbressler@ccctc.org Mr. Frank Walk fwalk@ccctc.org Ms. Heather McDanel hmcdanel@ccctc.org Mr. Brad Dixon bdixon@ccctc.org Mr. Daniel Kerlin dkerlin@ccctc.org Mr. Robin Steffan rsteffan@ccctc.org Mr. Darrin Dale ddale@ccctc.org Mrs. Darlene Smolko dsmolko@ccctc.org Mr. Gregory Zaffuto gzaffuto@ccctc.org Mr. Kurt Brothers kbrothers@ccctc.org Mr. Rodney Thompson rthompson@ccctc.org Mrs. Karen Miller kmiller@ccctc.org Mr. Joseph Peters jpeters@ccctc.org Ms. Beth Rhymestine brhymestine@ccctc.org 4 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook Masonry & Building Construction MIS/Computer Business Precision Machining Technology Residential & Commercial Electrical Technology Welding Technology Mr. Michael Skupien maskupien@ccctc.org Mrs. Melissa Mowrey mmowrey@ccctc.org Mr. Hector Martinez hmartinez@ccctc.org Mr. Jack Rumfola jrumfola@ccctc.org Mr. John Mandel jmandel@ccctc.org STUDENT SERVICES SUPPORT STAFF Perkins Facilitator Student Aide Student Aide Student Aide-Cosmetology Academic Tutor-Math Instructor Ms. Joanne McGarry jmcgarry@ccctc.org Mrs. Laura Gray lgray@ccctc.org Mrs. Tanya Kunsman tkunsman@ccctc.org Mrs. Debbie Gmerek dgmerek@ccctc.org TBA GUIDANCE COUNSELOR Guidance Counselor Mrs. Jennifer Porter jporter@ccctc.org MAINTENANCE / BUILDING AND GROUNDS Custodial Staff Custodial Staff Custodial Staff Custodial Staff Mr. Bill Richardson custodians@ccctc.org Mr. Barry Dimmick Mr. Robert Heller Mr. Bill Lansberry 5 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook Student and Parent Handbook--Policies and Procedures ADVANCEMENT Passing the year does not guarantee automatic scheduling in an advanced program for the following year. An instructor can recommend that a student not be scheduled by notifying the office and parent in writing. Parents will be encouraged to meet with school personnel to discuss the situation. The final decision on scheduling will be made by administration. An alternative schedule at either the Career Center or the home school will be prepared for these students. Students who lack credit or course requirements in their home school may not be able to schedule a Career Center program. Students who do not pass the previous year will not advance to the following year. ANNOUNCEMENTS AND SCHOOL NEWS A calendar of events is updated regularly on the website at: www.ccctc.org. Parents can keep in touch with teachers via e-mail addresses found in this handbook or on the Career Center website. ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE TIMES The following arrival and leaving times are in effect for the respective participating schools this school year. Morning Session West Branch Clearfield Alliance Curwensville Clearfield Philipsburg-Osceola Moshannon Valley Harmony 8:36 – 11:20 8:30 – 10:45 8:27 – 11:20 8:30 – 11:10 8:30 – 11:15 8:30 – 11:15 8:30 – 10:30 Afternoon Session 12:05 – 2:30 12:05 – 2:30 12:05 – 2:36 12:05 – 2:40 12:05 – 2:50 12:05 – 2:50 12:05 – 2:35 6 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook ASBESTOS NOTICE In compliance with the Federal Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act, the Clearfield County Career and Technology Center has submitted a management plan for the Career Center that details the testing, results, and projected action plans to be undertaken. The plan is available for inspection in the administrative office during normal business hours. ASSISTANCE AND GUIDANCE A guidance counselor is available at the Career Center to assist students. from, or change programs must obtain the counselor’s approval. Students are encouraged to take advantage of the counselor’s services. Students wishing to enter, withdraw ATTENDANCE Regular attendance is a very important part of success in school and on the job. Parents will be notified by the Classmate Auto dialer when their child is absent from the Career Center. A student’s attendance record is a major factor considered when applying for co-op, for advanced classes, and when the school makes recommendations to area employers and schools. Students must present a signed parent or guardian excuse to their instructor the day they return from any absence. Parental excuses received more than three (3) days after the student has returned to school will not be accepted, and the days of absence will be regarded as unexcused. When the student has accumulated 12 excused absences, the school may request a medical/doctor’s excuse for additional absences and parents will be notified in writing. Excessive unexcused absences can result in a parental fine and referral of the student to the Truancy Intervention Program of Clearfield County Children, Youth, and Family Services. Undocumented and unexcused absences will result in a student not being permitted to make up work, which in turn will result in a zero for that day. ATTENDANCE AT HOME SCHOOL ACTIVITIES To attend activities at the home school that occur when a student is scheduled at the Career Center, the student must submit the parent or home school request to the Career Center on the day before the activity. Students should have a satisfactory attendance and progress record or they may not be excused. 7 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook BEHAVIOR In order to maintain a safe and productive educational environment, students are required to conduct themselves in a responsible manner. Disruptive or unsafe behavior, foul language, fighting, horseplay, violations of school regulations, actions which are disrespectful, infringe upon the right of others or are detrimental to the school, teachers, or students can result in suspension. If continued, the student could be dismissed. A copy of the Code of Conduct Disciplinary Chart is shown in Appendix A. BREAKS IN THE INSTRUCTIONAL DAY Breakfast items are available in the AM only at the School Store at a minimal cost. Students should purchase items and go directly to class. A break in the instructional day (AM and PM) is at the discretion of the teacher and administration. Break time will be established to coincide with the opening of the school store and beverage machines and will not exceed 15 minutes. Disposal of items from break is the responsibility of the students prior to returning to class or work. Only one student at a time from each program area is permitted in the School Store. BUS LOADING AND UNLOADING Students, parents, and persons designated by parents to pick up students are reminded not to pass buses loading or unloading students as indicated by flashing red lights on the bus when stopped in front of the building. Violators will be reported by the bus drivers to police and are subject to a $100 fine. Students may only be picked up by parents or parental designees in the front of the building. CAREER-TECHNICAL STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS DECA, an association of marketing students, is a program of instruction that teaches marketing, merchandising, and management. Any student enrolled in Distributive Education (DE) is The letters ―DECA‖ represent eligible for membership in local, state and national chapters of DECA. Students from other programs may be permitted to enroll for specific events. Distributive Education Clubs of America, a career technical student organization designed to develop future leaders for marketing and distribution. DECA is a national youth organization operating within the nation’s schools for young people who are planning a marketing career. 8 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook D.E. students have common objectives and interests in that each is studying for a specific career objective. Each chapter elects its own student officers and the D.E. Teacher/Coordinator then serves as the chapter advisor. The club usually undertakes activities that will permit its members to grow in social, professional, and civic attitudes. Skills USA— Skills USA is a career technical student organization for young men and women enrolled as full-time students in secondary and postsecondary career and technical courses in trade, industrial, and technical education. Skills USA is a special organization because its purposes and activities relate to career goals and interests. Skills USA helps to develop character, communication skills, and teamwork concepts, and allows students to make contributions as individuals. Skills USA builds and reinforces self-confidence, positive attitudes toward work, and communication skills. Through skill competitions, student activities, professional development programs and school leadership opportunities, Skills USA promotes an appreciation of career-technical education while preparing students for success in the world of work. National Technical Honor Society—NTHS is a career technical student organization to honor student achievement and leadership, promote educational excellence, and enhance career opportunities. NTHS members will be inducted into the program each Spring. Candidates should be good, honest, responsible student-citizens who have made a personal commitment to excellence and who agree to uphold the NTHS Standards of Conduct found in the NTHS student candidate brochure and printed on the back of the student membership card. (See Appendix C for additional information.) CELL PHONES Cell phones are to be turned off between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 2:50 p.m. Any cell phones used by students or visible to staff during these hours will be considered a violation of this policy. Violations will be handled as follows: 1st offense: Teacher will keep the cell phone until the end of the day. It is the student’s responsibility to ask the teacher for the cell phone before leaving; 2nd offense: Cell phone will be sent to the office. Student can request the return of their cell phone at the end of the day; 3rd offense: Cell phone will be sent to the office and kept there 9 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook until a parent can pick it up. Any student refusing to turn over a cell phone to staff will be suspended out of school until a parent meeting is held. CHANGE OF ADDRESS AND STUDENT RECORD INFORMATION A student moving to a new address is required to inform the Attendance and administrative offices immediately. Generally, if the student moves to another participating district, he/she can still remain at the Career Center. Student health records should also be updated if there is any change from what was originally reported at the beginning of the school year. CHEATING Students caught cheating will be given a zero for the work with no opportunity for make-up work. Instructors or Administration will notify parents. CLUBS, ACTIVITIES, AND SALES All Skills USA, DECA, or other club-related sales, activities, or other moneymaking projects must have advance approval from administration. Student participation in extra curricular activities, such as yearbook, is contingent upon successful performance in their respective program areas. COMPUTER USAGE The school owns the computer and the software making up the e-mail/Internet systems and permits students to use them for educational purposes. Students are not permitted to share passwords or access information, and to the extent that they do share this information, they are responsible for any misconduct or inappropriate use that occurs with their respective accounts. E-mail messages and Internet records are to be treated like shared paper files, with the expectation that anything in them is available for review by authorized personnel. Additionally, as school records, Internet records are subject to disclosure to law enforcement and government officials or to other third parties through subpoena or other process. Consequently, students should always ensure that the information contained in e-mail/Internet messages is accurate, appropriate and lawful. As a condition of initial and continued enrollment, all students consent to review and disclosure of e-mail/Internet records. In addition, e-mail messages for which the 10 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook computer system has a record will be stored and retained in accordance with school records management guidelines. Any questions regarding this policy may be directed to the Executive Director. Please refer to Appendix D for the Computer Technology Acceptable Use Policy. COOPERATIVE EDUCATION Students must have maintained 95 percent attendance for at least two preceding nine-week periods for Cooperative Education eligibility. Two unauthorized or unexcused absences from either the home school or the Career Center while in the co-op program will result in dismissal from the program. Students must maintain passing grades at the home school to remain eligible. When grades fall below passing, a student is put on probation and given an opportunity to improve. Lack of improvement will result in dismissal from the Co-op program. CREDITS To earn three (3) credits the student must have at least a 70% average for the year. Students who enter late or withdraw may earn credit on a pro rata basis of .75 credit per nine weeks. No pro rata credit is given for incomplete or failing semester or nine-week grades. If a student has an incomplete grade for any marking period, he/she will not receive credit for the semester involved and/or for the year. Student grades are considered incomplete until all debts are paid. All incomplete grades must be resolved within a reasonable time frame established by the school. CURRICULUM REVIEW BY PARENTS AND STUDENTS Upon request of a parent or student, the Career Center will make available existing information about the curriculum, including academic standards and technical competencies to be achieved, instructional materials, and assessment techniques in accordance with JOC policy 105.1. DAMAGE OR DESTRUCTION OF SCHOOL PROPERTY Students and their parents will be held accountable for any damage or destruction of school property resulting from careless or unsafe use of materials or equipment, horseplay, disruptive behavior, or willful intent. Where the damage is considered a deliberate effort of destruction, violators will be prosecuted. 11 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook DESIGNATED PICK-UP BY PARENTS No student will be permitted to leave the Career Center without being signed out in the office by parents or persons designated by parents. Parents must enter the main office to sign their child out. Students may only be picked up in the front of the building. Parents or persons designated by parents are not permitted to pick up students in the side parking lot or driveway. Designated persons permitted to pick-up students must be listed on the forms sent home at the beginning of the year. DISMISSAL FROM THE CAREER CENTER If a student is dismissed from a Career Center program and reassigned to the home school, it is not an expulsion. However, the student and parents will be given the opportunity to attend an informal hearing, and may appeal for a formal hearing before the Joint Operating Committee. DRESS/APPEARANCE GUIDE This dress code is prepared under the provisions of Act 46 of 1998, which authorizes schools to adopt dress or uniform policies. Personal pride is best reflected in one’s personal appearance. Cleanliness, neatness, and appropriate dress together do more to positively influence others in the workplace than many other personal traits. It is the responsibility of every student at Clearfield County Career and Technology Center to be neat, clean, and well groomed. Students and parents have the right to choose clothing based upon one’s sense of taste and style providing that the student’s dress:     Is not destructive to school property Complies with all safety and health codes and rules Does not interfere with the educational process Does not disrupt the normal educational process Specific provisions of the dress code at Clearfield County Career and Technology Center include:  Students may not wear hats, caps, headbands, hoods, scarves or other head coverings in the hallways and public areas. Hats may only be worn in the program areas with the approval of the teacher. 12 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook  There shall be no clothing, pins, or buttons worn depicting the following: (a) alcohol, drugs, or tobacco messages, (b) sexually implicit messages, (c) insignias related to racist gangs or hate groups, (d) violence, or (e) the degradation of any individual or group.    There shall be no chains worn other than those designated and approved as jewelry. Hair color should be a natural color. The following shall not be worn: tank tops, see-through mesh tops, biker shorts, spandex, and muscle shirts. Sleeveless tops are permitted as long as they do not have spaghetti straps or reveal any undergarments. Shirts and blouses must reach the waistband of the slacks or jeans. permitted. Shirts, blouses, jeans, or slacks that compromise modesty are not   No undergarments (including sports bras) may be exposed at any time. Specifically, pants and slacks shall be worn with the belt line at the waist. Students may be required to wear certain types of protective clothing or a smock, blazer, coverall, or other uniform in a selected style and color. It is each student’s responsibility to regularly clean his or her uniform garment and replace it as necessary. No additional ornamentation, patches, buttons, etc. are to be added to the uniform. Students will not be permitted to decorate the uniform with paint, markers, pens, or draw on the uniform in any fashion.   Footwear shall be appropriate to the occupations of each program as determined by the instructor. Any article of clothing or jewelry, including body piercing apparel or jewelry, determined by the school to constitute a safety concern or hazard shall be prohibited. Extreme styles of clothing, accessories, hair, or fingernails may be considered a safety hazard. Individual program instructors or Administration will determine what constitutes a safety hazard in their area.   Skirts and shorts that are halfway between an individual’s mid-thigh and tops of the knees are permitted. Students are not permitted to wear clothing that is excessively large or overtly oversized or clothing with any hanging straps. The administration shall reserve the right to determine if clothing is excessively oversized to a point that may constitute a physical or safety hazard to the wearer or the overall school community. 13 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook  Any article of clothing or jewelry determined by the school to constitute a safety concern shall be prohibited. Extreme styles of clothing, accessories, hair, or fingernails may be considered a safety hazard.    Clothing that is ripped, torn, or ragged is not allowed. In cases of questionable dress, the administration reserves the right to make final decisions on appropriateness of all dress. In cases where administration deems student dress is inappropriate for school, students will have two (2) options: (1) Call parent or guardian and request appropriate clothing; (2) wear t-shirts and/or sweatpants supplied by administration. Students will be required to remain in the administrative office until appropriately attired. DRIVING, RIDING, AND PARKING Driving permits require pre-approval of a written request and a phone call from parents. Students will park in the lot to the right of the building. Do not park where prohibited by sign or by yellow curbing. Violations result in loss of driving privileges and/or out-of-school suspension; continued violations will result in dismissal. Students on co-op must provide their own transportation to and from their job or training station. When scheduled for class at the Career Center, all co-op students must ride the bus unless they have been issued a driving permit. If a student wishes to ride to or from the Career Center with another student with an approved driving permit, a passenger pass must be completed and submitted to the administrative office. The name of the passenger must appear on the driver’s request form and vice versa. Violations result in out-of-school suspension. All students are hereby advised that vehicles parked on the Career Center premises are subject to search when administration has reason to believe weapons, tobacco products, drugs or other items prohibited by school policy or state law are contained therein. Students who lose bus riding privileges at the home school will not be approved for a Career Center driving permit or a riding permit with a student approved to drive to the Center. A parent, guardian, or family member must provide transportation for the student to the Career Center during the period bus riding privileges are revoked. 14 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook DRUGS AND ALCOHOL Students using, selling, distributing or possessing marijuana, narcotics, unauthorized drugs, controlled substances, drug paraphernalia, alcoholic/malt beverages, or mood altering substances shall be reported to both parents and police. Students can be prosecuted and dismissed from the Career Center. In addition, the student’s sending district will be notified. Students should be aware that from time to time law enforcement agencies will bring trained drug-sniffing dogs to the Career Center to search for illegal drugs. Guidelines for dealing with the possession, use, and distribution of alcohol or controlled substances are explained in Appendix B. EARLY DISMISSAL Students are not permitted to leave the building or grounds during the school day without administrative approval or a request from the parent or guardian. The parent/guardian must contact the school via phone or in person. Except in emergencies or special circumstances, students should provide a written request from the parent/guardian. EMERGENCY FORMS In order to conform with standard safety regulations, a Student Emergency Health Record, an Authorization for Treatment, and Handbook Review Form must be filled out and returned to the Attendance Office. Students will not be authorized to perform hands-on training until the forms are completed and returned. Please update the office and instructor of any changes that may occur regarding the information listed on these forms. EMERGENCY DRILLS Fire drills, severe storm warning drills, and emergency evacuation drills are held periodically as required by state law. A three-phase horn like sound is the signal for immediate evacuation of the building. Exit along the pre-assigned route moving at least 150 feet away from the building without blocking any access road. Instructors will post and review procedures with students. Students are to exit the building in an orderly manner according to the maps and directions, which are posted in every program area beside the exit door. supplemented by specific instructions from each teacher. These directions may be Upon complete evacuation, the appropriate signal will be given for re-entry to the building through the same exit doors. Fire 15 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook alarms are installed for the welfare and safety of students, teachers, administrators and all occupants of the building. Anyone who would jeopardize the safety and well being of others by unnecessarily tampering with fire alarms will face dismissal from the Career Center. FALSIFYING SCHOOL FORMS Students suspected of presenting forged parental excuse requests, field trip permission forms, fundraiser permission forms, hall passes, or other such forms will be reported to administration immediately and appropriate action will be taken. A parent conference or temporary suspension from school may be necessary. FERPA (FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS & PRIVACY ACT) The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age (―eligible students‖) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. These rights are: (1) the right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the School receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the school’s Executive Director a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The Executive Director will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. (2) The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA. Parents or eligible students who wish to ask the School to amend a record should write the Executive Director, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it should be changed. If the School decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the School will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing. (3) The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the School as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff 16 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement personnel); a committee of the Joint Operating Committee; a person or company with whom the School has contracted as its agent to provide a service instead of using its own employees or officials(such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. Upon request, the School discloses education records, without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll. [NOTE: FERPA requires a school district to make a reasonable attempt to notify the parent or student of the records request unless it states in its annual notification that it intends to forward records on request.] (4) The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the School to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA are: Family Policy Compliance Office; U.S. Department of Education; 400 Maryland Avenue, SW; Washington, DC 20202-5920. Student Based Commercial Services: CCCTC collects, or allows businesses that provide student-based products and services to collect, use, and disclose directory information on students, including names, addresses, and telephone listings. Contact Lois A. Richards, Executive Director, at (814) 765-5308 or e-mail her at lrichards@ccctc.org, no later than September 7 if you do not want your child to participate in this activity. FIELD TRIPS Field trips are planned for educational purposes to meet classroom objectives. These objectives might include specific curricular activities and/or celebrations of accomplishments. Students will be held to same rules they follow when regular class is in session. In deciding to attend a field trip, the student accepts full responsibility for his/her actions while on the trip. Students are expected to dress appropriately and to behave in a mature manner on field trips, since the school will be judged by the appearance and actions of its student representative’s behavior. Any student who seeks permission to participate in a school-sponsored field trip must obtain, complete, and return a parental permission slip to his/her instructor. This is necessary regardless of the method of transportation. When bus transportation is provided, all students must ride the 17 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook bus. Field trips are a privilege. Teachers or administration have the right to prohibit any student from attending a field trip due to disciplinary problems. Students with too many absences, who are doing poorly in a class, who have failed to make-up work from previous trips, or for any other reason deemed appropriate by the Administration or instructor may be held back from attending a field trip. Any student prohibited from attending will be assigned classroom activities for that day’s attendance. FIRST-AID SERVICE All injuries, regardless of how minor they seem, must be reported immediately to the instructor who will take the necessary steps to help the student receive proper care. There is no school nurse or medical personnel at the school. In an emergency an ambulance will be called and an attempt made to contact the parent or designated person(s) by phone. Students may not work in the program area until both the Student Emergency Health Record and Authorization for Treatment of Minor Children forms are signed and returned. School personnel are not authorized to administer medication or perform medical procedures unless they are prescribed by a physician and authorized by the parent. Parents must bring the prescription to the school in its original container. Students are not permitted to have any medications in their possession during the school day. All prescription medications must be kept in the administrative office. Act 197 amends the School Code to allow children of school age to possess and self-administer an asthma inhaler in a school setting. A student who wishes to carry an inhaler must demonstrate the capability for self-administration and for responsible behavior in the use of the medication. If a student abuses or ignores the school policy regarding an inhaler, the school can confiscate the inhaler and remove the privileges to carry the medication. Students will be required to provide a written request from the physician permitting the student to have possession of the inhaler. Additionally, the school may request written permission from a parent relieving the school of responsibility for the benefits or consequences of the medication and for ensuring that the medication is taken. With proper authorization, a student may carry an EpiPen. This will be evaluated by Administration on a case-by-case basis. The same rules regarding inhalers (above) apply. 18 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook FOOD, BEVERAGES, AND CAREER CENTER STORE Food and beverages are restricted to office-approved functions under the supervision of the instructor. None are to be brought into the building from outside, and none are permitted in the program areas without teacher permission. The school store and vending machines will only be open or accessible at designated times. Administration reserves the right to revoke food, beverage, and Career Center store privileges as deemed necessary. GRADING The following percentage grade scale is used: 95-100 85-94 77-84 70-76 Below 70 Excellent (A) Good (B) Average (C) Below Average/Unsatisfactory (D) Failure (F) The semester grade is the average of the two nine (9) week grades. The yearly grade is the average of four (4) nine week grading periods. GRIEVANCES AND APPEALS A grievance or appeal of placement or the administration of school policy may be initiated by a student or by his/her parent/guardian(s) who has a serious concern regarding the policies, procedures, or activities of the educational program. A grievance or appeal may only be initiated by the student(s) or parent/guardian(s) directly involved. A copy of the procedures and process to be followed is available in the administrative office. Students with an IEP and the parents of these students are also entitled to additional rights. Copies of these rights are also available in the administrative office. HALL PASSES Students are not permitted to leave their assigned program areas without their instructor’s permission. The teacher must sign a written hall pass or an identifiable program area designated pass must accompany the student. Only one student shall be allowed out of the room at a time 19 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook to go to the store or beverage machine. Students should also sign out on a hall pass record form posted in the program area. Disciplinary actions may be taken if the situation persists. HARASSMENT/DISCRIMINATION The school will not tolerate the harassment or discrimination of staff, students, or others in any manner. All forms of harassment are hereby prohibited and considered unlawful harassment. Unlawful harassment is a form of discrimination prohibited by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Pennsylvania Human relations Act, the Code of Conduct for Education, 22 PA Code §235.11 and Student Rights and Responsibilities, 22 PA Code § 12.1, et. seq. The term unlawful harassment includes, but is not limited to, slurs, jokes, or other verbal, graphic, or physical conduct relating to an individual’s race, color, religion, ancestry, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, or disability. All students have a responsibility to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with this policy, thereby avoiding conduct that constitutes unlawful harassment. Violators are subject to legal charges, suspension, and dismissal. A copy of Policy 248 is available in the administrative office. HAZING Hazing activities of any type are inconsistent with the educational goals of the Career Center and are prohibited at all times. Hazing is defined as any activity that recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental health, physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation or membership in affiliation with any organization recognized by the Joint Operating Committee. HEARINGS A formal hearing will be provided in all dismissal proceedings or at a parent’s request. The opportunity for informal hearings or conferences will be provided to parents in all suspension proceedings or any time at parent request. INSURANCE It is recommended that all students have health or accident insurance. Students may purchase accident insurance by getting an application from their respective home high school at the beginning of the school year. 20 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT PROGRAM The Career Center uses an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach for managing insects, rodents and weeds as necessary. From time to time, it may be necessary to use pesticides registered by the Environmental Protection Agency to manage a pest problem. Applications will be made only when students do not have access to the area(s) being treated. Parents or guardians of students enrolled at the Career Center may request prior notification of specific pesticide applications made at the Career Center. To receive notification, parents/guardians must be placed on a notification registry by notifying the Career Center in writing. INTERNET Access to the Internet is a privilege. After receiving written consent and authorization from the parent/guardian, students will be allowed Internet access to locate materials to meet schoolrelated needs only. Any user who violates the established guidelines may be subject to not only revocation of the user privilege but also suspension or in the case of violation of law, may be reported to law enforcement. Students are not permitted to share passwords or access information, and to the extent that they do share this information, they are responsible for any misconduct or inappropriate use that occurs with their respective accounts. The Internet Usage Policy is explained in this handbook. LOCKDOWN On occasion it may be necessary to engage in a school-wide lockdown. During an internal lockdown all students will remain in their respective program areas until an announcement has been made on the PA system. If students are in another area at the time of a lockdown, they must remain in that area until it is deemed safe to return to their own program area. A schoolwide internal lockdown is for the safety of all students and staff and will only be instituted when it is deemed necessary by administration. An external lockdown may be instituted as deemed necessary by Administration. No one will be permitted to come into or leave the building. Faculty and students will maintain a regular schedule within the school. 21 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook LOCKERS, BACKPACKS, AND SEARCHES Lockers remain the property of the school at all times. Lockers and other storage areas assigned to students are to be kept clean and orderly. Decals or other items of a permanent nature are not to be placed on any part of the locker or storage area. Defacing lockers or school property in any manner is prohibited. Restitution for any damage due to lockers will be assessed. No expectations of privacy are to be assumed. Students are advised of the basic administrative prerogative to open and inspect the locker or storage area at any time there is reasonable cause to suspect it contains illegal materials or materials that pose a threat to the health, safety and welfare of students in the school. Dogs may also be used in the search process. Illegal materials will be seized and used as evidence against the student in disciplinary and other proceedings. This policy extends to student backpacks, notebooks, handbags, coats, or other personal belongings. Students entering this building may be required to undergo a metal detector search to ensure that weapons and other dangerous objects are not brought into the building. LOST AND FOUND Found articles should be taken to the program area teacher at once. The teacher will turn items into the administrative office where lost articles may be properly identified and reclaimed by the rightful owner. Lost items should be reported to the program teacher immediately. MAKE-UP WORK Students who are legally absent for any reason will be required to complete make-up work missed in class. It is the student’s responsibility to request and complete make-up work in order to fulfill the requirements of the program. Make-up work is part of the grading process. Grades and/or credits will be withheld when make-up work is not turned in and can result in an incomplete grade, a grade of zero, or failure if the situation is not remedied. Students with unexcused or undocumented absences are not permitted to make up work, resulting in a zero for the day. The teacher will determine when make-up work is due. MARKETING Career Center faculty and staff make every effort to positively promote the students and programs of the Center. Use of student photographs in the local newspaper, Career Center 22 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook marketing, and other media is encouraged. Parents/guardians are asked to indicate their approval on the Student and Parent Handbook Review Form. PERSONAL BELONGINGS AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES The Career Center is not responsible for students’ personal belongings that are lost, stolen or damaged. Students are discouraged from bringing radios, tape players, CD players, thumb drives, pagers, hand-held scanners, computer games, laser pointers, inappropriate printed materials or any other devices to the Career Center. Such devices will be confiscated, tagged and sent to administration where they can be claimed at administrative discretion. Devices of this nature are disruptive to the business-like environment of our school. Items deemed to be obscene will only be returned to parents. Cell phones must be turned off and not in use from 8:30 a.m. to 2:50 p.m. RECORDS Under law, students and parents have rights regarding privacy and the confidentiality of student records. The Career Center has developed a student records policy, which defines student records and details how records are used and maintained while protecting the rights of parents and students. A complete copy of the school’s record policy is available, upon request, free of charge. REPORT CARDS Report cards are issued at nine-week intervals. Instructors will send out separate progress reports mid-way through a marking period and at any time student progress is unsatisfactory. REPORTING TO CLASS AND TARDINESS All students should enter and leave the building through the main doors in the front of the building. In the event of a late or tardy arrival, students must first report to the attendance office. If the attendance officer is not available, the student should report to the receptionist in the administrative office. 23 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook RESPECT The key to success at the Career Center is RESPECT. Have a respectful attitude toward our facility, our equipment, your classmates, teachers and other adults, and most importantly, yourself. SATURDAY DETENTION Saturday detention will be utilized as a step to limit the number of out-of-school suspensions. Supervised Saturday detentions will be set up by the Assistant Director as needed, generally once a month. Students who are assigned to Saturday detention must report to the Career Center prior to 8:30 a.m. and remain until 11:30 a.m. If students are late, they will not be admitted and must make up the detention on a subsequent Saturday detention. Students who do not report to their assigned Saturday detention will lose all privileges at the Career Center (school store and other student activities) until the Saturday detention is made up. Transportation to the Career Center is the responsibility of the student or parent. SAFETY Our goal is to make everyone permanently safety conscious individuals while in school and when ready to enter into the world of work. In 1965 the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania approved Act 116, which provides that all individuals who are engaged in, or exposed to, hazardous laboratory activities will use eye protective devices. Thus, all students and instructors working in such areas will comply with this act. All clothing must meet state and school safety standards. Where hair length is a health, sanitary, or safety hazard around machines and equipment, a hair net, protective cap, or safety helmet will be required. Uniforms, hard-hats, coveralls and protective or safety shoes are also required in certain program areas. The instructors will strictly enforce all safety regulations and uniform requirements. For your own safety and for the safety of others, follow all safety precautions. Violating safety practices is grounds for suspension. Repeated violations can result in dismissal. SCHEDULING Scheduling is based on the availability of openings and the recommendations or evaluations of school personnel without regard to race, color, sex, religion, age, or national origin. The Career 24 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook Center offers one, two and three year approved programs for secondary and post-secondary students. Enrollment in a career-technical education program is based on the student’s needs and interests. We hope you are satisfied with your choice and take full advantage of this opportunity. To succeed you are expected to fulfill your responsibilities to both the Career Center and home high school for satisfactory performance and compliance with all rules and regulations. SCHOOL CLOSINGS AND DELAYS When the Career Center is closed or delayed due to weather conditions or emergencies, announcements will be made over local radio and television stations, such as WTAJ-TV10, WJAC-TV6, Froggy 98, WCPA, WPHB, and WCED. STORM PROCEDURE If action is necessary because of a severe storm, follow the procedure outlined for your program area. The severe storm or tornado warning will be announced over the school announcement system. STUDENT AND PARENT HANDBOOK REVIEW FORM Students are responsible for returning a signed Student and Parent Handbook Review Form to their teacher at the beginning of the school year or three days after enrolling in the event of a late enrollment. Students will not be permitted to work in the program area until the form is signed by a parent or guardian and returned to the teacher. STUDENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (SAP) The Career Center has formed a certified SAP team to assist with student issues. The guidance counselor is the primary contact for assistance. STUDENT PERFORMANCE Students are expected to make progress in the program and maintain satisfactory grades. Students whose grades are below average or failing may be reassigned back to the home school for alternative subjects. Those students with below average final grades may not be scheduled to return to the Career Center for intermediate or advanced work the following year. Students 25 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook MUST meet all home school credit requirements in order to remain at the Career Center. No students who are failing their CTE program will be permitted to attend extra-curricular activities, such as yearbook. STUDENT PURCHASES Students will be required to pay for materials, books, supplies or projects that they take from the school or which are defaced, damaged, lost, or not returned to the Career Center. STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES These include, but are not limited to regular school attendance, conscientious effort, evidence of success and progress, conformance to school rules, and completion of academic requirements. (See page 2 for additional responsibilities.) STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES Student support services staff are available to assist students who may be having difficulty with assignments or other class work in their program areas. These individuals can also help students with home school assignments and senior projects. All Career Center staff are committed to helping students succeed at both the Career Center and the home school. SUSPENSIONS a. Temporary suspension: In-School exclusion from all classes and activities as determined by the instructor and administration. The student will report to an assigned room as scheduled for supervised study and assignments. Parents will be notified and may have an informal hearing. b. Temporary Suspension: Out-of-School exclusion from all classes and activities up to three days. Students are responsible for seeking make-up work. Parents are notified in writing and may have an informal hearing. The student’s sending district will be notified as well. c. Full Suspension: Exclusion out of school for a period not exceeding ten school days or pending possible dismissal. A formal hearing will be held in all cases involving 26 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook possible dismissals and extended suspensions beyond ten school days. The student’s sending district will be notified as well. d. All out-of-school suspensions include both the Career Center and the sending high school. An in-school suspension by the Career Center applies only to the Career Center half of the school day. If the high school suspends a student, the student is also suspended from the Career Center. If the Career Center suspects a student, he/she is also suspended from this high school. During any suspension at either school, the student is excluded from all daily and extracurricular activities. e. If the student is assigned to an alternative program by the high school, the student will also be excluded from the Career Center. The decision to permit make-up work or continue at the Career Center during or after the alternative assignment will be made by the Career Center administration based on the student’s record to date and the nature of the offense following consultation with the sending school and the student’s parent(s). TELEPHONES Students are not permitted to use the phones in the program areas unless the call relates to school business and is approved by the instructor. Students may use the administrative or guidance counselor’s office phone in the event of an emergency. Students must have prior permission and a hall pass from a staff member in order to use the telephone. All passes must be signed by the administrative office following student use of the phone. Students are not permitted to use the telephone in either office for routine calls to friends or family. Permission to use the office telephone will not be given unless it is determined the situation warrants the call. Cell phone usage is not permitted during instructional time. TERRORISTIC THREATS A student shall not by use of violence, force, coercion, threat, intimidation, or any other conduct, intentionally cause disruption of any legal mission, process or function of the Career Center or its student body. Acts which result in harm or destruction of person(s) or property pose a direct threat to the safety of the school, or to others in the school. These criminal acts will require administrative action and shall result in one or more of the following: suspension from school 27 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook and related activities, psychological evaluation (parent/guardian expense), outside counseling (parent/guardian expense), expulsion, financial restitution, the intervention of law enforcement authorities, and other actions deemed necessary by the school administration and the Joint Operating Committee. Note: Before reentering school, students who were suspended and referred for a psychological evaluation must show evidence that they have completed the psychological assessment, are following the assessment recommendations, and have a written statement from the psychologist or counselor ensuring safe and appropriate conduct of the student after their return to school. TEXTBOOKS, TOOLS, AND EQUIPMENT All textbooks, tools, and equipment not paid for by students as part of the students’ program are loaned to the students for their use during the school year. Textbooks must be covered if required by the program teacher. All textbooks are to be kept clean and handled carefully. Tools and equipment used during class must be turned in daily according to program rules and regulations. Any student losing or damaging a textbook, tool or piece of equipment will be required to reimburse the Career Center for its replacement cost. Any student found responsible for such action may be suspended from school until proper restitution has been made. Textbooks assigned to students should be kept in a safe location when not being used to avoid loss or theft. Periodic checks will be made in order to insure that damage, loss, or defacing of school property is not occurring. THEFT Stealing is not tolerated at the Career Center. Complete restitution, suspension, and police notification will result depending on the severity of the case. TOBACCO Our ―no Tobacco in any form‖ policy is in compliance with Act 145 of 1996 as amended Feb. 3, 1997. ―Tobacco‖ is any lighted or unlighted cigarette, cigar, pipe or other lighted smoking product and smokeless tobacco in any form. Smoking and/or the use of or possession of tobacco products/lighting devices, or look-alike tobacco products will not be permitted on school grounds, buses, or during school activities and school-sponsored trips. Violations will result in 28 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook suspension from school, a parent conference, and a fine, plus court costs as determined by the local magistrate. Violators will be prosecuted. TRANSPORTATION Students from participating districts will use the buses provided. Students who miss the bus must report to their high school office. Missing the bus is not a valid reason to drive. UNPAID DEBTS All debts owed to the Career Center should be made in a timely manner. This includes fundraisers, as well as debts for materials, equipment, uniforms, etc. The Career Center reserves the right to pursue payment of overdue debt through the local magistrate. VEHICLE REPAIRS AND OTHER WORK Students who want to have their vehicles repaired or other work done at the Career Center must first obtain permission from the program instructor prior to completing the request for a driving permit. It is the student’s responsibility to obtain and complete the request for a driving permit in the administrative office. VISITORS All visitors to the Career Center must report directly to the administrative office immediately upon arrival to register and secure a visitor’s badge. Visitors are required to display the badge while remaining on school property. Community and parent interest is to be encouraged, but the process of career-technical education should not be unnecessarily interrupted. Visitors are not to be received by instructors unless prior authorization has been granted by the administration. Appointments to see specific teachers should be made in advance and scheduled during noninstructional times. Before leaving the building visitors must return to the main office and sign out. 29 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook WEAPONS The Clearfield County Career Technology Center Joint Operating Committee recognizes the importance of a safe school environment to the education process. Possession of weapons in the school environment is a threat to the safety of students and staff, and is prohibited by law. DEFINITIONS: WEAPON—―Any knife, cutting instrument, cutting tool, nunchaku, firearm, shotgun, rifle, and any other tool, instrument or implement capable of inflicting serious bodily injury. (Public School Code 1317.2) Any instrument designed or used to injure or intimidate another person. This includes items generally understood to be weapons as well as replicas of weapons. Any other item, if used to injure, threaten or intimidate, is also a weapon.‖ POSSESSION—―Being on the person, or in a person’s car, locker, bag, or otherwise under his or her control.‖ The Clearfield County Career Technology Center Joint Operating Committee prohibits students from possessing and bringing weapons, and replicas of weapons, into the Career Center, onto Center property, to any Center sponsored activity, and onto any public conveyance providing transportation to the Center or a Center sponsored activity. The Joint Operating Committee shall expel, for a period of not less than one year, any student who violates this weapons policy. Appropriate disciplinary/legal action will be taken against students who possess weapons and with students who assist with possession in any way. The Executive Director may recommend modifications of such expulsion requirement on a case-bycase basis. In the case of an exceptional student, the Executive Director shall take all necessary steps to comply with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. 30 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook Appendix A Code of Conduct – Progressive Disciplinary Chart This chart is NOT all-inclusive, but is rather a general guide to consequences of inappropriate behavior. To provide for the school’s safe and smooth operation, the Joint Operating Committee and/or administration reserve st the right to modify/increase/decrease consequences at their discretion on an individual basis. nd rd th th Level One Referrals Profanity Refusal to work in class Acting out with substitute teacher Consistent refusal to follow class rules Violation of school or class dress code Disrespectful behavior to staff or other students Defiance of authority – failure to comply Unauthorized driving/riding to school Forging/Misuse of passes, parent’s notes, forms, or documents Classroom disruption or disturbance Contributing to a disruptive situation Horseplay (mild) Possession/Use of tobacco products Two or more unexcused absences 1 2 3 4 5 Level Two Referrals 1st B,C2,D B,C2,D B,C2 B,C2,D B,C2,D 2nd B,C2,D B,C2,D B,C2,D B,C2,D, E1 B,C2,D, E1 3rd B,C2,E1 B,C2,E1, H,L B,C2,E1, H,I 4th 5th A,B A,B,C2 A,B,C2 A,B,C2 A,B,C2 A,B,C1, D A,B,C1, D A,B,C1, D A,B,C1 A,B,C1 A,B A,B A,B,C1, D,K A A,B,C1 A,B,C1 A,B,C1 A,B,C1, D A,B,C1 A,B,C1, D A,B,C1, D A,B,C1, D B,C1,D A,B,C1, C2,D A,B,C1, D A,B,C1 B,C2,D, K A,C1 B,C1/ C2,D B,C2,D B,C2,D B,C2,D B,C2,D B,C2,D Careless use of material and equipment (safety) Consistent refusal to follow school rules Refusal to follow safety rules or safety dress code Rowdiness/horseplay (safety concern) Leaving school without permission Level Three Referrals B,C2,D A,B,C1, E1 Violation of computer and/or Internet policy Intimidation/Harassment/Threats to staff or students Stealing (Under $20) ($20 or over) False disaster alarm/911 call Fighting Possession/Use of alcohol A,B,C1, C2 Possession/Use of drugs Possession/Use of weapon(s) Willful destruction of (Under $20) materials or equipment ($20 or over) Defacing or wrecking school or others’ property Disruptive behavior/horseplay (safety violation) Assault A,B,C2/D,E, F B,C2,E2,G,H, L B,C2,E1,G,J B,C2,F,G,J B,C2,F,G, H,L B,C2,E1,G,H B,C2,F,G, H,I,L B,C2,F,G, H,I,L B,C2,F,G,H,L B,C2,E,G,J B,C2,F,G,J B,C2,E2,G,J B,C2,D/E1,F B,C2,F,G,H,L *** Also possible loss of all computer privileges B,C2,F,G H,L B,C2,H,L B,C2,H,L B,C2,D B,C2,D B,C2,D B,C2,E2, F,G,H B,C2,F, G,H,I,L Key: (probation is included with all actions) (A) Student-Teacher Conference; (B) Administrative Conference With Student; (C1) Parental Notice of action(s) by mail; (C2) Parental Phone or On-site Conference; (D) Saturday detention (E1) Out-of-School Suspension (1-3 Days); (E2) Out-of-School Suspension (4-10 Days); (F) Out-of-School Expulsion (11180 Days); (G) Police Notification; (H) Referral to Joint Operating Committee for possible expulsion; (I) Referral – Other; (J) Restitution Required; (K) Fine; (L) Possible Reschedule to Home School. B,C2,H,L B,C2,H,L B,C2,F,G, H,J,L B,C2,E2, H,L Students with Individual Educational Plans: Disciplinary action would be reviewed with the sending school administrator or supervisor of special education. Options in addition to, or in place of, the above: (1) Review of student’s IEP; (2) IEP revisions made as needed; (3) A manifestation review made; (4) Behavior modification plan developed; or (5) A change in placement made per IDEA. 31 CCCTC 2008-089Student/Parent Handbook Appendix B Drug and Alcohol Policy Situation/Category 1. A student volunteers information about personal drug or alcohol use and asks for help. Immediate Action The student is informed of services available at the Career Center and participating school and encouraged to seek help. No disciplinary action will be taken against students seeking help. Student who contacts a staff member is advised to encourage the student with a problem to personally seek help. Investigation A staff member will request advice from the Executive Director, Assistant Director, or Counselor. Notification of Parents Only with the consent of the student, unless there is clear and imminent danger. Notification of Police Disposition of Substance Discipline/Rehabilitation No disciplinary action will be taken against students asking for help. Possible referral to Student Assistance (SA) Team at the participating school. No Not Applicable 2. A student contacts a staff member in regard to drug or alcohol use by another student. 3. The possible use of drugs, alcohol or mood altering substance by a student is indicated, but there is no evidence of violation of law or school regulations. The Executive Director or Assistant Director is summoned. Staff member writes an anecdotal report of the incident. A staff member will request advice from the Executive Director, Assistant Director, or Counselor. The Executive Director or Assistant Director will investigate. This may include search of the student, his/her locker and other possessions. No disciplinary action will be taken against students asking for help. Possible referral to SA Team at the participating school. Not Applicable No Not Applicable Notification of behavior and/or performance indicators if warranted. Referral to the SA Team at the participating school. No Not Applicable 32 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook Appendix B Drug and Alcohol Policy Situation/Category 4. The student has a drug, mood-altering substance, or alcohol related medical emergency. Immediate Action Standard health and procedures will be followed. Parents will be summoned as soon as possible. Student will be transported to a medical facility at parental expense. The Executive Director or Assistant Director is summoned. Staff member immediately writes an anecdotal report of the incident. Investigation The Executive Director or Assistant Director will investigate. This may include search of the student, his/her locker and other possessions. The Executive Director or Assistant Director will investigate. This may include search of the students, his/her locker and other possessions. The Executive Director or Assistant Director will investigate. This may include search of the student, his/her locker and other possessions. Notification of Parents Parents are notified and a parental conference is arranged as soon as possible. Notification of Police Yes, at the discretion of the Executive Director or Assistant Director. Disposition of Substance Confiscate the material. Analysis will be made if necessary for use in further proceedings. Discipline/Rehabilitation Referral to the SA Team upon evidence of violation. Refer to appropriate situational category. 5. A student possesses, is using, or is under the influence of drugs, moodaltering substances, lookalike drugs, paraphernalia, anabolic steroids, or alcohol at school or any school function. Parents are notified and a parental conference is arranged as soon as possible. Yes, at the discretion of the Executive Director or Assistant Director. Confiscate the material. Analysis will be made if necessary for use in further proceedings. 6. A student is caught AGAIN in possession, use of, or under the influence of drugs, mood-altering substances, look-alike drugs, paraphernalia, anabolic steroids, or alcohol. The Executive Director or Assistant Director is summoned. Staff member immediately confiscates the material and writes an anecdotal report of the incident. Parents are notified and a parental conference is arranged as soon as possible. Yes, at the discretion of the Executive Director or Assistant Director. Confiscate the material. Analysis will be made if necessary for use in further proceedings. 10 day out-of-school suspension. Formal JOC expulsion hearing may be held. Referral to the SA Team at the participating school and abide by their recommendation which may include an assessment by a licensed D/A assessor & compliance with recommendation of the assessor. Student will not be permitted to participate in extracurricular activities during suspension or expulsion. 10 day out-of-school suspension. Formal JOC expulsion hearing may be held. Referral to the SA Team at the participating school and abide by their recommendation which may include an assessment by a licensed D/A assessor & compliance with recommendation of the assessor. Student will not be permitted to participate in extracurricular activities during suspension or expulsion. 33 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook Appendix B Drug and Alcohol Policy Situation/Category 7. A student is providing, giving and/or distributing drugs, mood-altering substances, look-alike drugs, paraphernalia, anabolic steroids, or alcohol. Immediate Action The Executive Director or Assistant Director is summoned. Staff member immediately confiscates the material and writes an anecdotal report of the incident. Police will be notified. Investigation The Executive Director or Assistant Director will investigate. This may include search of the student, his/her locker and other possessions. Notification of Parents Parents are notified and a parental conference is arranged as soon as possible. Notification of Police Yes Disposition of Substance Confiscate the material. Analysis will be made if necessary for use in further proceedings. Discipline/Rehabilitation Formal JOC expulsion hearing will be held. *Note: Students having assessments as a result of policy violation must comply by those recommendations at parental expense or be subject to exclusion from school. A timetable will be set. *Look-alike drugs – Any substance being in possession of being used as, or distributed as a true drug. 34 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook Appendix D 34 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook Appendix D 35 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook Appendix D Clearfield County Career and Technology Center Computer Technology Acceptable Use Policy 1. Introduction The Clearfield County Career and Technology Center provides technology resources to its students and staff for educational and administrative purposes. The goal in providing these resources is to promote educational excellence in the Career Center by facilitating resource sharing, innovation and communication with the support and supervision of parents, teachers and support staff. The use of these technology resources is a privilege, not a right. Access to the technology resources may include a network login account, an email account or Internet access. The purpose of these resources is to support the user’s education or employment. Use is restricted to those activities consistent with the goals and objectives of the Clearfield County Career and Technology Center. By using any of these resources, the user agrees to comply with the policies defined in this document. 2. Terms and Conditions A. Privileges The use of Clearfield County Career and Technology Center’s technology resources is a privilege, not a right. Inappropriate use can result in a suspension or cancellation of this privilege. Teachers, administrators, and/or computer technician deem what is inappropriate use and may take corrective action. While the Career Center offers the use of technology resources to you as a privilege, there is no reasonable expectation of privacy in technology resources you access. In that regard, users should be aware that any hardware or software provided by the Career Center remains the property of the Career Center. The Career Center retains the right to monitor the use of this property. Career Center officials can and will monitor the electronic mail system usage, including actual email messages. B. Personal Responsibility Users assigned a network login account, an email account or access to secure programs are responsible for their account and password and are responsible for keeping these items secure. All users may have the option to change their passwords and should not share their passwords with anyone. Users are responsible for any information to which they have access. Once a user receives a network login account, email account or access to secure programs, that user is solely responsible for all actions taken while using the login account. Since each user is responsible for keeping his/her password secure, any user that shares his/her password will be solely responsible for actions taken by the person to which the user gave his/her password. C. Acceptable Use The Clearfield County Career and Technology Center provides technology resources in accordance with the Career Center’s educational objectives. All software and hardware is to be approved by administration 36 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook Appendix D and maintained by the computer technician and instructor. Users of these resources are to abide by these following rules:  Equipment is to be used only by the intended user.  Do not bring in personal equipment or software.  Do not move equipment within or remove from school property without permission from the Administration.  Do not write on, damage or destroy equipment.  Do not download or install software without permission from the Computer Technician.  Do not modify configuration settings without permission from the Computer Technician.  Do not use resources for product advertisement, political lobbying, gambling or any illegal activities.  Do not use technology resources for transferring or duplicating material in violation of any U.S. or state regulation. This includes, but is not limited to, copyrighted material, threatening or obscene material, software or material protected by trade secret.  Do not access websites that are not in conjunction with the goals and objectives of the Clearfield County Career and Technology Center, i.e. fantasy sports, gambling, shopping, etc.  Do not use chat features, either online or software based.  Do not access games. Students may access a game if it is educational, monitored by a teacher and included in the teacher’s lesson plan.  Do not monopolize technology resources or the internal network, such as accessing online games, chat rooms or other inappropriate websites, running large print jobs or sending mass email messages.  Do not access resources using someone else’s account and password. The above list is only meant to serve as an example of activities the Career Center does not deem to be an Acceptable Use. The Career Center reserves the right to determine if any activity reported or discovered, that does not appear on the above cited list, constitutes an unacceptable use of the technology resources. D. E-mail Etiquette E-mail accounts at the Career Center should be used for educational purposes. Be polite. Do not write or send abusive messages to others. Harassment, threats, intimidation and other behavior contrary to the educational goals of the Clearfield County Career and Technology Center are prohibited.  Use appropriate language. Do not swear, use vulgarities or any other inappropriate language, images, symbols or photos.  Avoid offensive or inflammatory speech.  Do not reveal the personal address or telephone number of anyone.  Refrain from accessing, reading or any other use of electronic mail addressed to another person.  Electronic mail is not guaranteed to be private. Administrators of the system have access to all mail. Messages relating to or in support of illegal activities may be reported to the authorities. The above list is only meant to provide examples of activities the Career Center prohibits with regards to the use of its email system. The Career Center reserves the right to determine if any activity reported or discovered, not appearing on this list, is contrary to the Email Etiquette or Acceptable Use Policy.    E. Vandalism    Do not damage, destroy or alter the physical configuration of equipment. Do not destroy or harm the data of another user. Do not use Career Center technology to upload, download or create viruses. 37 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook Appendix D  Do not use Career Center technology to hack or attempt to hack into any system. The above list is only meant to provide examples of activities the Career Center considers to be vandalism of its technology resources. The Career Center reserves the right to determine if any other activity that may be reported and that does not appear on the aforementioned list constitutes vandalism of the Career Center’s technology resources. F. Security    Users should notify a teacher, an administrator, or computer technician of any violations of this policy taking place. This may be done anonymously. Illegal activities may not be conducted using the schools technology resources. Personal attacks or purposefully annoying other users, inside or outside of the school, is prohibited. G. Violation Violation of this policy may result in suspension or cancellation of access privileges. Suspension or cancellation of privileges may prevent users from performing their job or completing assignments for other classes.  Administration and faculty may deny, revoke or suspend specific user accounts.  Any user identified as a security risk or having a history of problems with other computer systems may be denied access to Clearfield County Career and Technology Center’s technology resources.  Abusers of this policy will be given due process, and appropriate actions will be taken. (Refer to Appendix A Code of Conduct in the Student/Parent Handbook under Level Three Referrals.) The Career Center reserves the right to use any and all remedies, penalties, and punishments provided in the Pennsylvania School Code and Pennsylvania Crimes Code, as well as any other federal or state laws, and policies and directives of the Joint Operating Committee or Administrators. As a user of the Career Center’s technology resources, it is understood certain actions in violation of state or federal laws could result in civil and/or criminal penalties.  H. Content Filtering In compliance with the Child Internet Protection Act (CIPA), Clearfield County Career and Technology Center provides content filtering on resources accessing the Internet. URLs, search engine results and email are filtered by key words. Content areas used to filter and/or block websites are listed and defined as follows: ADULT’S ONLY: Material labeled by its author or publisher as being strictly for adults. (Examples: "Adults only," "You must be 18 to visit this site," "Registration is allowed only for people 18 or older," "You must be of legal drinking age to visit this site"). ALCOHOL: Advocating or promoting recreational use of alcohol. AUCTIONS: All URLs that offer access to online auctions. Online auctions are rarely monitored for content and contain rapidly changing material, potentially exposing users to material that would otherwise be filtered under other categories, such as Porn, Weapons, Lingerie, Violence, etc. 38 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook Appendix D CHAT: Chat sites, or services that allow short messages to be sent to others immediately in real time. Downloadable chat software. DRUGS: Advocating or promoting recreational use of any controlled substance. ELECTRONIC COMMERCE: The E-Commerce category includes any site that allows users to make online purchases of any commodity. In addition to potentially posing a risk to users by offering direct access to commodities normally filtered under other categories, such as Weapons, Profanity, Lingerie, Porn, etc., these sites can be considered a distraction from normal productive use of the Internet. FREE EMAIL: Sites that offer e-mail accounts over the Web for free. Such sites can expose users to harmful content delivered via e-mail file attachments. Blocking such sites also helps to enforce local acceptable-use policies if and when e-mail is already provided locally to users. FREE PAGES: Sites where home page space is offered for free. These sites historically have done nothing to prevent capricious abuse of their services by users who post offensive content under multiple pseudonyms, making them difficult to track. GAMBLING: Gambling services, or information relevant primarily to gambling. GAMES: Computer games and related information, whether playable online or downloadable. HATE/DISCRIMINATION: Advocating discrimination against others based on race, religion, gender, nationality, or sexual orientation. ILLEGAL: Advocating, promoting, or giving advice on carrying out acts widely considered illegal. This includes lock-picking, bomb-making, fraud, breaching computer security ("hacking"), phone service theft ("phreaking"), pirating software, or evading law enforcement. JOKES AND HUMOR: Jokes and humor. LINGERIE: Models in lingerie. MESSAGE/BULLETIN BOARDS: Sites that permit semi-permanent messages to be posted and read by others. NUDITY: Bare or visible genitalia, pubic hair, buttocks, female breasts, etc. PERSONAL INFORMATION: Sites that gather personal information (name, address, phone number, and so on). PERSONALS: Personal advertisements, including "mail-order brides." PORNOGRAPHY: Material intended to be sexually arousing or erotic. PROFANITY: Crude, vulgar, or obscene language or gestures. RECREATION/ENTERTAINMENT: Recreation and entertainment information other than Games, Jokes, or Sports. 39 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook Appendix D SCHOOL CHEATING INFO: Any site that promotes plagiarism or similar cheating among students (such as by offering term papers, exam keys, etc.). SEXUAL: Images or descriptions of sexual activity. Any sexual merchandise. Sexual fetishism. SUICIDE/MURDER: Information on committing murder or suicide. SWIMSUITS: Models in swimwear, especially fashion swimwear photos. TASTELESS/GROSS: Bodily functions. Tasteless humor. Graphic medical photos. Some extreme forms of body modification (cutting, branding, genital piercing). TOBACCO: Advocating or promoting recreational use of tobacco. VIOLENCE: Graphic images or written descriptions of wanton violence or grave injury (mutilation, maiming, dismemberment, etc.). Includes graphically violent games. WEAPONS: Information on use of weapons, weapon collecting, or weapon making. I. Liability The Clearfield County Career and Technology Center makes no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the services it is providing. The Clearfield County Career and Technology Center will not be responsible for any damages suffered through use of or accessing any of its technology resources. This also includes loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, mis-deliveries or service interruptions caused by negligence, errors or omissions. Use of any information obtained is at your own risk. The Clearfield County Career and Technology Center specifically denies any responsibility for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through its telecommunication services. 40 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook Appendix E Clearfield County Career and Technology Center Admissions Criteria Addendum to JOC Policy 201 Resident Students The Clearfield County Career and Technology Center has an open admissions policy for students enrolled in one of the CCCTC consortium’s public or nonpublic secondary schools. The CCCTC admits students without regard to the applicant’s race, color, creed, religion, gender, sexual orientation, ancestry, national origin, or disability. The open admissions policy applies to students entering the 10th, 11th or 12th grade year of high school, depending on program choice, and subject to available space in a given program (i.e.-students who apply for programs with no waiting list will automatically be accepted into their program of choice). For students applying to programs which have more applicants than openings, applicants will be subject to further evaluation by an admissions committee comprised of administrators, guidance personnel, and the program instructor. Applicants will be rated on a 10-point scale in each of the following areas:  Attendance (25%)  Grade Point Average (25%)  Prerequisite Courses (25%)  Teacher/Counselor Recommendations (25%) Students not immediately offered admission after committee evaluation will be placed on a rank-order waiting list and/or offered admission into their 2nd or 3rd choice program selection. Should an accepted student in one of these competitive programs decline an offer of admission, the next highest-ranking student on the program’s waiting list will be offered admission. The application due date for first-round program acceptances is May 1st. Applications received after this deadline will be considered, however, these applicants may have less chance of being offered admission into their first choice program, as available program slots may have already been filled by this time. Full-time, fullyear students can apply for admission, and enroll in a program, up until the tenth (10th) day of the school year. Student applicants will be notified of their admission status (i.e.- accepted into first choice program, offered 2nd or 3rd choice program, and/or placed on a program waiting list) via their high school counselor after the application deadline. Students are asked to notify their high school counselor (or the CCCTC guidance office) by May 15th if they intend to decline an offer of admission. Written notification of acceptance will be mailed to the student’s home address during the summer months, along with the school welcome letter. Transfer Students Students who transfer into one of the CCCTC consortium’s public or nonpublic secondary schools and are currently enrolled in another AVTS will be offered enrollment in the same (or a comparable) CCCTC program. This offer of admission applies provided that the student left the AVTS in good standing. 41 CCCTC 2008-09 Student/Parent Handbook