August, 2006

Dear Parent/Guardians,

Welcome to Ashby Elementary School and the 2006-2007 school year. To our returning students, your teachers and the staff are excited to see you and are amazed at how much your have grown over the summer. We have enjoyed watching you grow both educationally and as people and we look forward to being part of that process again this year.

For those families who are new to AES, welcome! We are looking forward to getting to know you and hope you find your time here at AES to be both exciting and rewarding. We encourage you to take full advantage of all the opportunities that are available to you here. We believe that a solid education will be the key to your success in the future. It is our goal to provide you with the best education possible.
|
We have high expectations for all of you, not only in terms of what we feel you will be able to achieve this year, but also in terms of how you will treat others and others will treat you. With roughly 265 students here at AES, it is important that all students have the opportunity to learn in an atmosphere that is welcoming and one in which they can feel safe.

The purpose of this handbook is to explain the philosophy, policies and procedures that allow us to achieve these goals. Please take some time to read it carefully so that you are clear about the expectations that we have for your child (ren).

Whether or not you are successful here at AES is your choice. Students who come to school everyday, make an honest effort to do their best work, and who treat others with respect will find their efforts rewarded with academic success and personal growth.

My e-mail address is as follows: agapp@nmiddlesex.mec.edu and the school website is www.nmiddlesex.mec.edu. Looking forward to a wonderfully productive and successful 2006-2007 school year!

Sincerely,
Mrs. Cromwell-Gapp, M.Ed.
Principal

I dreamed I stood in a studio
And watched two sculptors there.
The clay they used was a young child’s mind
And they fashioned it with care.
One was a teacher –
The tools he used were book, music, and art.
The other, a parent, worked with a guiding hand
And a gentle, loving heart.
Day after day, the teacher toiled with touch
That was careful, deft, and sure.
While the parent labored by his side
And polished and smoothed it o’er.
And when at last their work was done
They were proud of what they had wrought.
For the things they had molded into the child
Could neither be sold nor bought.
And each agreed they would have failed
If each had worked alone.
For behind the parent stood the school.
And behind the teacher, the home.
Unknown

PHILOSOPHY
Ashby Elementary School is dedicated to educating children from kindergarten through grade five and functions as an integral part of the community it serves. Students of different races, creeds, economic backgrounds, and abilities are represented in the school population. The school's size enhances a close relationship among parents, school personnel, and students.

Ashby Elementary School provides a disciplined, positive atmosphere in which students can develop academically, socially, emotionally, and morally. The school strives to meet the needs of each individual student. Students are challenged to develop their individual potential and assume increasing responsibility for their learning. Opportunities are provided for students to be actively involved in learning experiences related to the changing world around them.

The educational endeavor is a joint undertaking with the administration, teachers, parents, students, and the community working cooperatively. It is believed that the administration creates a positive and supportive teaching-learning environment; teachers guide the learning process insuring that all basic skills are taught; parents provide a supportive learning environment at home; students invest themselves in the educational opportunities; and the community lends support in accomplishing the goals outlined by the school.

SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT

The community of the Ashby Elementary School is devoted to providing a physical and social environment that is conducive to learning. We will strive to promote process and product in academic and enrichment experiences, while fostering self-esteem and respect.

DISTRICT MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the North Middlesex Regional School District is to enable all students to maximize their full potential for achievement and success.

ADMINISTRATIVE PERSONNEL SERVICES

North Middlesex Regional School District
23 Main Street
Townsend, Massachusetts 01469
(978) 597-8713

School Committee
Theresa Morse, Chairperson, 4B Battery Road, Townsend, MA 01469 (978) 597-6702
Anne Buchholz, Co-Chairperson, 7 June Street, Pepperell, MA 01463 (978) 433-3097
Dennis Moore, Secretary, 780 Pillsbury Road, Ashby, MA 01431 (978) 386-7741
Sue Fitzgerald, Committee Member, 52 Heald Street, Pepperell, MA 01463 (978) 433-9231
Kathryn Lowe, Committee Member, 4 Brick Pond Way, Pepperell, MA 01463 unlisted
Lisamarie Proctor, Committee Member, 28 Bayberry Road, Pepperell, MA 01463 unlisted
Joseph Sciacca Jr., Committee Member, 59 Maplewood Drive, Townsend, MA 01469 (978) 597-2047
Arnold Silva, Committee Member, 59 Oak Hill Street, Pepperell, MA 01463 (978) 433-8238
Frederick Wheeler III, Committee Member, 22 Sumac Drive, Townsend, MA 01469 (978) 597-5304

District Schools
Ashby Elementary (978) 386-7266
Hawthorne Brook Middle (978) 597-6914
Nissitissit Middle (978) 433-0114
North Middlesex Reg. High (978) 597-8721
Peter Fitzpatrick (978) 433-2787
Spaulding Memorial School (978) 597-0380
Squannacook Elementary (978) 597-3085
Varnum Brook Elementary (978) 433-6722

District Administrative Personnel
Superintendent of Schools: Dr. Maureen Marshall (978) 597-8713
Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum/Professional Development: TBA (978) 597-8713
Associate Superintendent for Personnel and Grants: Mr. Robert Dempsey (978) 597-8713
Business Manager: Mr. Gerald Martin (978) 597-6302
Special Needs Director: Ms. Susan Alinovi (978) 597-8128
Manager of Information Technology: Mr. Peter Balducci (978) 597-8779
Ashby Elementary School Principal: Mrs. Anne Cromwell-Gapp (978) 386-7266

504 Coordinators:
Mr. Robert Dempsey (978) 597-8713
Mrs. Linda Rakiey (978) 597-8128

Coordinators for the Homeless:
Mr. William Smith (978) 597-8713
Ms. Susan Alinovi (978) 597-8128

Title VI and Title IX Coordinator:
Mr. Robert Dempsey (978) 597-8713

SCHOOL CALENER

*Dismissal Time on Half Days is 12:00 PM

FY 2006-2007 SCHOOL COMMITTEE CALENDAR

August 7, 2006
September 11, 2006
October 23, 2006
November 13, 2006
December 11, 2006
January 8, 2007
February 12, 2007
February 26, 2007
March 12, 2007
March 26, 2007
April 9, 2007
May 7, 2007 (Organizational Meeting)
May 14, 2007
June 11, 2007

AFTER-SCHOOL ENRICHMENT PROGRAM
This program offers students a choice of enrichment activities at a nominal cost. Registration forms are sent home with students two weeks before the classes are scheduled and give a brief description of the class offerings for the upcoming session as well as the dates of the classes. Community members, parents and interested adults are invited to share their hobby or interest with the students. Instructors can select the age child and class size that they are comfortable with and receive a stipend for teaching. Prompt transportation pick-up of students at the conclusion of each program session is the responsibility of the parent/guardian.

ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL PROCEDURES

Regular School Day (K-5) 8:55AM–3:15PM/Half Day/Early Release Day (K-5) 8:55AM–12:00PM

We urge all students to arrive at school no earlier than 8:45 AM. Students who arrive at the school before 8:45 AM will not be allowed in the building and there is no supervision outside the building before that time. No student should be dropped off before 8:45 AM or remain after school hours unless they have permission to participate in an approved enrichment or instructional program.

Students are to go home immediately upon dismissal at 3:15 PM. They are not to enter the main hallway of the building or classrooms to pick-up forgotten materials after they have been dismissed, except in emergency situations. No student will be allowed to ride their bike to and from school, walk, ride another bus, or get off at another bus stop without written permission from parent/guardian to the school.

During arrival and dismissal times, drivers are asked not to park or drive in the front circular driveway. Please use the lined parking spaces adjacent to the school. Walkers, bikers, car riders, and bus students will be dismissed at 3:15 PM. Students who wait to be picked up will wait inside the school for safety reasons.

Parents/guardians and adults with written authorization from the parent/guardian, who are picking up children for dismissal, must come to the blue door. Students will line up properly at the front walkway as they prepare to board their buses parked in the designated areas of the school parking lot.

Early dismissal of students is handled through your child’s teacher and the office. A written statement from the parent should be sent to the teacher the morning of early dismissal. If a parent wishes to pick up a child during the day, the parent must come to the office in order to properly sign out the child. Should a parent send another adult to pick up a child at any time, written authorization from the parent is required. No child will be dismissed in the custody of a person other than the parent/guardian of the child unless written authorization has been sent from the parent/guardian specifying the name of the person who is authorized to pick up the child that day. Children are not allowed to go home with another child or attend an after school activity without a note from the parent/guardian. Children without a note will be sent home in accordance with their regular routine for that day.

Under no circumstances may a student leave a classroom, assigned area or the school building/grounds without permission. Disciplinary action will be taken if this should occur.

Student Notes/Dismissal Information:

We cannot accept changes to dismissal information over the phone. For the safety of the children, a note from the parent stating the change must be sent in to the office or brought into the school. Thank you for your understanding in this matter.

All notes are to be no smaller than 4 x 7” and include the following information:
• At the top of the note: Date/Day
• Student first and last Name/Homeroom code or teacher name
• Parent name printed and signature of parent.
• Be sure to specify as much information as you can (i.e. give complete name of child your student is leaving with, their address and Bus #).

Please understand that time is of the essence when processing all the morning notes, so as much information as you can provide on your child is helpful at this most hectic time of the day. Thank you for your continued cooperation.

Also, when you are having a group of students to your home or meeting at the school, please send in a list of the students you have contacted and are planning to meet you so the office knows who should have a note. This will help dismissal time run smoothly.

ATTENDANCE/TARDINESS

Children are required to attend school each day in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws and the policies of the North Middlesex Regional School District. A student may be excused for sickness, serious illness or death in the immediate family, and recognized religious holidays. Each student is expected to make up all work that has been missed during an absence from school. Requests for homework during student absences should be made to the regular school telephone number before 9:00 AM for pick-up after 3:00 PM at the school office. Unexcused absences from school/class will result in a parent conference with the principal and disciplinary action against the student.

Foreseen absences (i.e. family vacations during the school year outside of the designated school vacation periods) place a burden on the child, the teacher, and the other children in his/her classroom. For this reason, vacations should be planned to coincide with regularly scheduled vacation periods. It is the school’s and District’s position that these types of absences should be avoided.

We do recognize, however, that there may be circumstances that make it necessary for you to take your child out of school. In such cases, parents/guardians need to submit a note to the child’s teacher stating the date(s) of the absence and the reason for the absence.

In that we believe it is necessary for the child to complete all class work, the parent/guardian should also submit a note to the child’s teacher requesting anticipated work assignments. *This request must come at least one week before the anticipated absence. Please note: These assignments may not be all inclusive of the assignments given to the class during the absence.

If a child is going to be absent from school, or late to school, parents are requested to call the absence line (978-386-0973) before 9:00 AM. If a student does not arrive at school, we want to be sure the child is safe at home. The guidance counselor, principal, nurse or secretary will call the home if the school does not hear from the parent or if the parent has not registered a call on the school absence call in line. Parents do not need to send in an absence note if they have called the absentee line.

Students are expected to arrive at school on time. Any student who has not reported to the classroom by 9:00 AM will be marked tardy and will need a note from the office to be admitted to class. It is important for parents to realize that tardiness disrupts classes that are in progress. Parents will be contacted when absences or tardiness become excessive. Students are not marked tardy when they are late due to bus delays or mechanical problems. In order for a student to qualify for perfect attendance he/she may not be absent, dismissed, or tardy at all during the school year.

No student who has been absent or suspended from school may participate in or attend any school or after school activity during the day of their absence. This includes any student who is dismissed before 11:55 AM (and does not return to school) or any student who enters school after 11:55 AM.

AWARDS

A formal Awards Day ceremony will be held on the next to last day of the school year. During the morning announcements for the last two weeks of the school year, some school-wide awards will also be presented.

BUILDING SECURITY AND SCHOOL SAFETY

It is the policy of the Ashby Elementary School and the North Middlesex Regional School District to endeavor to provide a safe, secure and non-disruptive environment in which students can learn and participate in all school programs and activities. Providing for the safety of students, school personnel and visitors while at school and/or participating in school-sponsored activities is the responsibility of all school employees. If a school employee confronts a situation that he/she considers to be unsafe, he/she should take all reasonable steps to eliminate the potential harm to others and report the circumstances involved to the building principal. The Superintendent can promulgate “administrative procedures” to effectively implement the goals of this policy.

All exterior doors will be locked after students enter the building. The only door left unlocked is the main entrance. The doors leading from the front lobby area to the main hallway will be locked at 4:00 PM each day. All parents, volunteers, visitors and guests must stop at the office and sign a register and receive approval from the office and an authorization badge to proceed beyond the front lobby area. Any unauthorized person on school property will be reported to the principal. That person will be asked to leave the premises. If the person refuses, the police will be contacted. Video surveillance cameras will monitor the front lobby area.

CHILD ABUSE/NEGLECT

The North Middlesex Regional School District affirms its responsibility to provide for the safety and well being of students. School personnel, having custodial responsibilities of school children, are by law required to refer for investigation by the Department of Social Services, any school child suspected of having been abused or neglected. (V)

COMMUNICABLE DISEASE

The following diseases are common among school children and are considered communicable. Children having any of these diseases must be excluded from school according to regulations set by the Department of Public Health and the school physician (as outlined below).

Chicken Pox - one week from the appearance of eruptions or until lesions have dried / crusted
Conjunctivitis - on medication for 24 hours
German Measles - five days after onset of rash
Hepatitis A - exclude for a minimum of one week following onset of jaundice
Hepatitis B - may return when acute clinical symptoms are gone with attending physician’s approval, with no visible signs of weeping body fluids or open sores. See HIV policy
Herpes Simplex - exclude until lesion can be covered or is crusted over
Impetigo - on medication for 24 hours
Measles - five days from the appearance of the rash
Meningitis - readmit after treatment with antibiotics with attending physicians’ approval
Mumps - nine days after onset of swelling
Pediculosis - exclude until nit free, must be checked by the school nurse prior to reentry and 10-14 (head lice) days after treatment
Pin Worm - until treatment by physician can be verified - no less than 24 hours
Rubella - exclude for a minimum of 4 days after onset of rash

1) Contacts - no restrictions if previously immunized
2) Susceptible - from seventh through 21st days after exposure

Scabies - exclude for 24 hours after taking prescribed medication with physician’s note to verify treatment
Strep Infections - (scarlet fever-strep throat) - 24 hours after antibiotic was started, providing it is continued for 10 days or, in all cases, when a doctor approves the return to school

COMMUNICATION CHAIN

If a parent needs to talk to a teacher concerning their child's progress, we ask that you use the following procedure:
1. Call the school secretary to arrange to have an appointment scheduled with your child's teacher(s).
2. Follow through with the designated conference time.
3. Allow some time for the change to occur. If you still have concerns regarding your child's progress, call the school principal who will discuss the situation and look into the problem area. The principal may ask for assistance from the special needs staff and the regular classroom teacher. The principal may ask for a joint conference so that everyone can work together as a team to find the most appropriate action.
4. In the unlikely event that the problem cannot be resolved at the building level, the parent has the right to ask for assistance from the Superintendent of Schools. She will ascertain whether all attempts to resolve the problem have been tried at the school building level. Every effort should be made before the Superintendent becomes actively involved to resolve the problem using the personnel at the school. The Superintendent may counsel the parents individually or call for a joint meeting.
5. In extreme cases, the School Committee may become involved when a school district policy is in question.

DISCIPLINE/EXPECTATIONS OF CONDUCT

Every child has right to an education, but along with this right comes responsibilities. Each student's right to learn will be protected. It is the goal of the school to establish a positive learning environment by nurturing student self-discipline. It is the responsibility of every student to be respectful and cooperative with teachers and adults in order to help other students maximize their learning experience at AES. We are a community of learners and as such we look to each other for assistance. Advancement of individual potential is important and a desirable school goal. However, we should not lose sight of the fact that we are come together each day in a team effort to work and learn in a cooperative manner as adults and children.

Students at Ashby Elementary are expected to abide by School Committee policies and the school rules, which are listed below as well as the classroom rules established by individual teachers. School Committee policies are written in a policy manual located in the school office. Teachers will inform parents and students at the beginning of the year of their classroom rules and expectations. (XIX)

Bathrooms/Cafeteria -
1. Use the bathrooms for their intended function; behave appropriately; don’t make a mess or vandalize the bathrooms.
2. Keep the bathroom clean. No writing, stains or marks should be made on walls, stalls, floors or bathroom fixtures.
3. Place paper/hand towels in the wastebaskets provided, not in the toilets.
4. Wash hands without spilling soap on the floor before returning to class.
5. Turn off water faucets before leaving the bathroom.
6. Return directly to class.

Cafeteria - Students are expected to:
1. Walk in an orderly manner and wait quietly in line to be served.
2. Find a seat immediately and remain seated until finished eating.
3. When finished eating, dispose of lunch materials and make sure table area is cleaned up in an appropriate manner.
4. Talk in a reasonable tone of voice in order to keep the cafeteria noise level at a low volume.
5. Use good manners and treat school property and each other with respect. Students may lose cafeteria privileges or be given assigned seats if they fail to cooperate with the adults on duty and/or refuse to follow cafeteria guidelines for behavior. Students are expected to behave as they would at their dinner table at home.
6. Refrain from sharing lunches and selling food items to other students, due to food allergies.

General Guidelines – Classroom - Students are expected to:
1. Be kind, respectful and courteous to adults and to other students at all times.
2. Respect the property and belongings of the school and other people.
3. Follow the directions of the adult in charge.
4. Keep the school neat and clean.
5. Dress in neat, clean and appropriate clothes that will not distract or offend others.
6. Remember not to chew gum in school or on the school grounds. An automatic detention will be assigned for gum chewing.
7. Sit properly in chairs. (This is a safety issue.)
8. Refrain from bringing radios or other small headsets that play music, toy guns, electronic toys,
laser penlights, cell phones, beepers, toy knives or other inappropriate toys or cards.
9. Leave expensive toys at home unless they are part of a school project or learning activity.
10. Not bite, spit, swear or use vulgar language. These are very inappropriate actions and will not be tolerated. Disciplinary action will occur.
11. Not smoke or be in possession of cigarettes, alcohol or drugs in the school building, on the school grounds or on any school bus in the school district. Disciplinary action will occur.
12. Behave appropriately during assembly programs (no booing, fooling around, or talking) and on school-sponsored field trips.
13. Not throw or propel objects of any kind at others in the classroom, cafeteria, hallways, on the playground and the bus. This is an issue of safety and will not be tolerated. Disciplinary action will occur.

Hallways - Students are expected to:
1. Line-up in an orderly manner and walk quietly.
2. Observe and appreciate the artwork and class projects displayed in the building without touching the displays.

Recess - Students are expected to:
1. Walk from the cafeteria to the designated recess area after being dismissed.
2. Toys prohibited are: toy guns, knives, and radios, headsets, cell phones, cassette players, electronic toys, beepers or other inappropriate toys and cards.
3. Remember that baseball cards, small toys are for personal use on the playground. Selling items is strictly prohibited.
4. Line up in the designated area when the recess period has ended.
5. Follow the directions of the teachers and general assistants. They are in charge of supervision during the recess period; their directions should be followed in a prompt, courteous manner.
6. Ask the teachers or general assistants for permission to leave the recess area.
7. Use sleds on the playground in a safe manner. The general assistants will outline directions for use. Student safety will be the prime concern. Regulations for use will be followed by all students who wish to have the privilege of using school sleds for play.
9. Avoid rough play at all times on the playground and school grounds. Rough play is that which involves clutching, grabbing, pushing, tripping, or otherwise knocking another student or students to the ground. In all cases, the general assistants shall determine what is considered to be rough play. Verbally or physically aggressive behavior and/or rough play will not be tolerated nor will fighting, bullying or any other action that harms or is potentially harmful to another student. Any deliberate attempt to harm another student physically whether on school grounds, the school bus, or at a school function will be considered a serious offense and as such will bring serious consequences. Sportsmanship will be displayed in all playground and classroom activities.
10. No skateboards or roller blades on school property at any time.

Due Process

Each child shall have the right to, in the case of any disciplinary action whether it be loss of recess or other school privileges, after school detention, in-school suspension, out of school suspension, or expulsion from school, hear the charges made against them. The student shall have an opportunity to respond to those charges, shall have an opportunity to bring witnesses into the discussion in their defense. In cases of expulsion they have right to a hearing with parents and legal counsel present.

In any and all cases the consequences for actions deemed inappropriate or in violation of school conduct codes shall be reasonable and appropriate relative to the age and grade of the student in concert with district and state policies.

Students in need of special education shall also be required to adhere to the rules and regulations contained in this handbook unless their individual educational plan indicates otherwise. The children with an individual education plan shall not be subjected to 10 or more days of consequences and/or punishment that causes them to be denied the educational program outlined in the individual education plan. There are specific federal and state mandates in place for students receiving special education services. These are specified in the handbook section entitled “Special Needs Student Discipline Policy.”

Recent court rulings have defined certain student rights with regard to exclusion from school. The procedural requirements of due process in regard to suspension stipulate that three (3) elements be present prior to any suspension: the student must be told the nature of the charges, be given an opportunity to respond, and, if he denies the charges, a statement of the evidence supporting them. All this can be done informally, with the charges and supporting evidence delivered orally or in writing. If a student is dissatisfied with the decision or with the principal, he/she may appeal to the Superintendent of Schools.

The court has further recognized that, as an exception to these rules, emergency circumstances could exist under which a student could be immediately suspended, if posing a physical threat to persons or property. In such cases, however, the hearing will be scheduled as soon after the suspension as possible. (XVI)

Corporal Punishment

Corporal punishment in public schools is illegal in Massachusetts. School staff may not hit, spank or physically punish students. School staff members may, however, use reasonable force if necessary to protect students, other persons or themselves from an assault by a student.

Hazing

A Massachusetts state law makes hazing a criminal offense in the commonwealth. While we experience and foster a supportive and cooperative atmosphere among our student body and staff, it should be noted that any act of hazing would result in an immediate hearing with the school principal and suspensions of one to ten days depending on the seriousness of the incident. This will result for those individuals who are identified as participants in such an act and includes physical or verbal hazing. The term “Hazing” as used in this section shall mean any conduct or method of initiation into any student organization, whether on public or private property, which willfully or recklessly endangers the physical or mental health of any student or other person. Practices such as whipping, beating, branding, forced calisthenics, or forced consumption of food or beverages are some examples of hazing. Any athlete involved in hazing will be expelled from the team. (XI)

Cheating/Plagiarism/Forgery/Theft

Cheating in any form is considered a major offense and will be treated seriously. Students claiming credit for work other than their own, including homework, are considered to be cheating. This includes all parties involved in the actual cheating offense. A conference with the student, parent/guardian, teacher, guidance counselor, and principal will take place to determine the appropriate disciplinary action. Loss of academic credit (the student(s) will receive a zero for the work) will occur.

Plagiarism is an act involving serious academic dishonesty by copying verbatim the written work/ideas of another. Any plagiarized paper/assignment will be graded as a zero and the student’s parents will be contacted.

Forgery is the act of a person signing someone else’s name to a document. This is considered a serious act and disciplinary action will be taken against a student who does this.

Theft (the deliberate act of taking money or other items that belong to someone else without their permission) and/or the failure to divulge information concerning a theft when requested will be dealt with seriously. Disciplinary action, restitution and/or community service hours will be considered in dealing with this issue. A parent conference with the principal will be required. Referral to the police may also occur.

Bullying

Bullying is unacceptable at Ashby Elementary School. Students who feel that someone is trying to intimidate them, whether verbally or physically, should speak with an administrator, guidance counselor, teacher or staff member immediately. Should a parent become aware of a similar situation involving their child, they are also encouraged to contact the school. In either circumstance, appropriate action will be taken to correct the situation.

Fighting/Intimidation on School Property

Any student who physically abuses, fights with, bites, coerces, continually bullies or destroys the property of another student may receive up to a three (3) day suspension or more severe discipline. Possible notification to the police may occur. A parent conference will be required.

Insubordination, Disrespectful and/or Disruptive Behavior

Students must show proper respect for and obey legitimate requests of all members of the school staff. Not to do so would be considered insubordinate (disobedience) and would result in disciplinary action. Repeated insubordination/disobedience will result in more severe discipline. A parent conference with the principal will be required.

Disrespectful behavior toward school personnel or another student in the form of vulgar language, profanity or derogatory gestures will be subject to significant disciplinary action, even suspension depending on the severity of the behavior. If it is directed at an adult, it will result in an out of school suspension for a minimum of one (1) school day. Frequent disruptive behavior by a student in the classroom or elsewhere will likewise be subject to significant disciplinary action.

Suspensions

An in-school suspension is designed to remove a student with disciplinary problems from the privilege of attending scheduled classes. In-school suspension allows a student to complete academic assignments that are owed while promoting proper behavior in the regular classroom setting. The student will be supervised at all times. The classroom teacher will provide appropriate work. Parents will be notified in writing about the action being taken concerning their child.

Time spent in the in-school suspension is strictly business; socialization or recess is not permitted. Academics will be emphasized. Lunch will be brought to the student. Physical needs will be responded to immediately.

In the court case of Goss v. Lopez, the United States Supreme Court held that before a student is temporarily suspended from public school for ten days or less, the students has the constitutional right to receive:
1. oral or written notice of the charges against him/her;
2. an explanation of the evidence against him/her; and
3. the opportunity to present his/her side of the story to an impartial decision-maker (who may be a school administrator).

Notice of the suspension and the hearing will occur before the student may be asked to leave school, except when a student presents an immediate threat to school officials, other students, or himself/herself, or clearly disrupts or endangers the school environment. In this case, the hearing may be delayed, but must be held within a reasonable period of time. Students will be told the length of the suspension when it is initiated. Out of school suspensions may be issued by an administrator for a period of one to ten days. Students will be notified of the reason for suspension. A discussion will be held between the administrator and the student with the opportunity to tell his/her side of the story. Every effort will be made to telephone and inform the parent of the suspension. A written communication will be mailed to the parent. Each suspension will require a student, parent and administrator conference prior to reinstatement. Up to three detentions may be assigned following each suspension. Students will be responsible for class work missed during suspension. All assignments will be left at the main office and must be picked up by a parent or his/her designee. Failure to make-up missed work will result in “0” for these assignments. A student suspended for more than five separate instances during the year will have his/her disciplinary record forwarded to the Superintendent by the Principal for the purpose of expulsion consideration and/or an administrative conference. If a student is suspended for 10 days in a given school year, whether it be in-school or out of school suspension, the parent has the right to request a special education evaluation.

Lengthy Suspension and Exclusion

Suspension for more than ten (10) days or exclusion (the permanent expulsion of a student from public school) require the school committee to provide a fair hearing for a student and his/her parents before the student is permanently excluded for alleged misconduct. The procedural rights for students facing expulsion include:
1. written notice of charges;
2. the right to be represented by a lawyer or advocate (at the student's expense);
3. adequate time to prepare for the hearing;
4. access to documented evidence before the hearing;
5. the right to question witnesses; and
6. a reasonably prompt, written decision including specific grounds for the decision.

In addition, the student or his/her parent may request that the meeting be tape-recorded and that the proceedings be interpreted into the student's/parent's primary language. The Open Meeting Law is applicable to school committees, (General Laws, ch. 39, sec. 23B) and, allows the school committee to enter executive session to consider the discipline of an individual. However, the statute allows the individual involved (that is, the student or his/her parent) to request that the hearing be held in open session.

Special Needs Student Disciplinary Policy

- If a Special Education student has violated the school's disciplinary code, the school may suspend or remove the student from his/her current educational placement for a period of up to ten (10) cumulative days in a school year. When it is suspected that the suspension of a Special Education student will accumulate to up to ten (10) days in a school year, a Team (Manifestation Determination TEAM) shall be convened to review the IEP and the student's progress under that IEP. The review Team will determine whether the student's misconduct is related to the student's identified need for Special Education, or results from inappropriate program/placement, or an IEP that was not fully implemented. If the school district (i.e. TEAM) identifies deficiencies in the student's IEP or placement or their implementation, it must take immediate steps to remedy those deficiencies.

If the Team concludes that the student's conduct is related to a student's disability, then the student may not be removed from the current educational placement (except In case of possession of a dangerous weapon or a controlled substance or a student who assaults school personnel on school premises or at school sponsored or school-related events, including athletic games). The Team must develop a new IEP and immediately implement the new IEP, following parental/guardian approval.

If the Team concludes that the student's misconduct is not related to the student's disability, the current IEP is appropriate and the IEP is fully implemented and the Team must amend the student's IEP to provide for the delivery of Special Education Services to the student during the period of suspension, and the parents/ guardian must consent to that amendment.

If, prior to the disciplinary action, the district had knowledge that the student may be a student with a disability, then the district makes all protections available to the student until and unless the student is subsequently determined not to be eligible. The district may be considered to have prior knowledge if:
a. The parent had expressed concern in writing; or
b. The parent had requested and evaluation; or
c. School district staff had expressed concern that the student had a disability.

If the district had no reason to consider the student disabled, and the parent requests an evaluation subsequent to the disciplinary action, the district must have procedures to conduct an expedited evaluation to determine eligibility. If the student is found eligible, then he/she receives all procedural protections subsequent to the finding of eligibility.

The Principal has the right to place a Special Education student in a forty-five day Interim Alternative Educational Setting without parental permission if the student brings a weapon to school or a school function; or the student possesses/uses/sells illegal drugs in school or at a school related function.

The Principal does have the right to exclude a Special Education student in a school that contains grades 9-12 in a case that involves possession of a dangerous weapon or a controlled substance or a student who assaults school personnel on school premises or at school sponsored or school-related events, including athletic games. A Principal in buildings without grades 9-12 would make a recommendation to the Superintendent and School Committee regarding exclusion of a Special Education student for the above reasons.

A Special Education student who has been excluded from the District has the right to appeal to the Superintendent. The student has ten days from the date of the exclusion to notify the Superintendent of the appeal. An appeal to the Superintendent does not stay the exclusion of the student from school. The Superintendent is required to hold an appeal hearing upon the request. The student has the right to legal representation during the hearing. After the hearing, the Superintendent shall decide whether to sustain, modify or reverse the Principal's decision. (VIII)

DISCRIMINATION POLICY AT NMRSD

Members of Ashby Elementary School (student or staff) do not discriminate based on a student’s race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, or sexual orientation. Students have equal access to admission to school, courses, extracurricular activities, and employment opportunities, and will not be excluded for reasons of marriage or pregnancy. If a student or a student’s parents believe that she/he has been a victim of discrimination within the school or during school related activities, the incident should be reported to the principal immediately. (I)

DRESS/APPEARANCE

Although there is no formal dress code in the school district, the administration advises parents to please monitor the appropriateness of their child’s dress as they leave for school each day. Students should dress in a clean, neat and appropriate manner, which adds to a positive, productive school environment. Student dress is considered inappropriate and unacceptable if it is a distraction to the learning process, is considered to be offensive or it affects the health, rights and/or safety of the person or others. Shoes are especially important to safety. Open-toe shoes, clogs and flip-flops are not advisable. Children find it difficult to run and play with these shoes. Cleats and jewelry/clothes with studs or sharp objects on them are also not allowed because they could damage school property and jeopardize safety. Students will not be allowed to wear the following: hats, thin strapped tops, half shirts, tank tops, mesh clothing, short shorts, bandanas, pajamas, bicycle/lycra pants and any type of revealing clothing. The wearing of a hat in the school building is not allowed. Chains worn on pants, protruding studs from clothing, or sharp objects on clothing or jewelry will not be permitted in order to ensure safety and to protect against injury or damage to school property. Clothing, jewelry or related apparel, which refer to tobacco products, drugs or alcoholic beverages, are prohibited. Clothing, jewelry or related apparel utilizing sexual connotations and/or suggestive double meaning will not be permitted. Improperly dressed students may be asked to select other clothing or be sent home to change after notification to the parent. When deficiency in hygiene, grooming, appearance or dress is deemed to offend reasonable standards of health, safety and morality, or likely to disrupt the teacher/learning process, parents will be called. Displaying the "colors" of any inappropriate social group is strictly prohibited. Beepers and cell phones of any kind will not be allowed in school.

Please take daily note of your child's attire and help us enforce these guidelines. When a student is appropriately dressed, his/her attitude is much more in tune with the goals of the school.

During the school year, recess is regularly held outside except during extremely cold and inclement weather. We recommend that all students wear clothing, which is appropriate for the weather conditions. When boots are worn during recess, it is suggested that sneakers or some other shoes be kept to wear inside the school building. Sneakers are required for all physical education classes.

DRUG, ALCOHOL AND CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE POLICY

Students who attend school or school functions possessing, using, or selling illegal drugs, controlled substances or alcohol will be suspended up to a maximum of ten days and may be subject to expulsion. Other action will include: immediate notification and conference with parents, arrangements for appropriate counseling, and referral action to local police officials. (In case of a second offense, the school committee will be requested to consider expulsion.)
No person shall intentionally smell or inhale the fumes of any substance having the property of releasing toxic vapors for the purpose of causing a condition of intoxication, euphoria, excitement, exhilaration, stupefaction, or dulled sense or nervous system, nor possess, or sell any such substance for the purpose of violating or aiding another to violate this section.

EDUCATIONAL TRIPS

Educational trips are held periodically during the year to broaden the students’ learning experiences. Information slips will be sent home prior to the trip. It is the student's responsibility to return the signed permission slip prior to the date of the field trip. Parents will be notified in advance of any cost involved and may be asked to assist in chaperoning students. A student may be excluded from an educational trip if he/she has not completed school assignments despite reminders from the teachers or if his/her behavior could negatively affect the safety and well being of himself/herself and others on the trip. All students are representatives of AES while on an educational trip and as such, are expected to behave appropriately at all times.

EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSING

In an effort to assist the parents and support student safety, the administration of the North Middlesex Regional School District offers the following important information about emergency school closings during the school year.

First, the towns of Ashby, Pepperell, and Townsend are part of one school district called, "The North Middlesex Regional School District." When listening to school closing on the radio, you will hear The North Middlesex Regional School District is closed. There are eight schools in the district. They are: Ashby Elementary, Squannacook Elementary, Spaulding Memorial, Peter Fitzpatrick School, Varnum Brook Elementary, Nissitissit Middle, Hawthorne Brook Middle, and North Middlesex Regional High.

North Middlesex Regional School District (NMRSD) would generally close schools during the following emergencies:
• Excessive snow fall
• Dangerous ice/road conditions
• Flood conditions
• Hurricane and high wind conditions
• Problems at schools such as heat, power, or water failure

In the NMRSD, the decision to close schools is usually made during the morning hours by the school's administrators. Please note the following about those early morning decisions.
1. Emergency closings are planned between 5:30 - 6:00 AM.
2. Parents should listen to the following stations for details about school closings:

Radio Stations:
WTAG (AM 580)- Worcester
WRKO (AM 680)- Boston
WBZ (AM 1030) - Boston
WEIM (AM 1280)- Fitchburg
WSRS (FM 96.1)- Worcester
WXLO(FM 104.5)- Worcester/Boston

Television Stations:
WBZ Channel 4 - Boston
WCVB Channel 5 - Boston
WHDH Channel 7 - Boston

When school is delayed in the North Middlesex Regional School District, it is a 2-hour delay. In summary, please remember only school officials’ close school on emergency closing days. You should assume school is open unless you hear otherwise on local radio or television between 5:30 and 7:30 a.m. If you have any specific questions, please feel free to call the school office. Parents are encouraged not to call the local fire/police departments.

If an emergency (non-weather related) early release should be necessary, every attempt will be made to contact a parent or guardian of all students in the school either by school personnel or by parent volunteers.

If an early dismissal due to inclement weather should be necessary, the school will follow the instructions given by parent/guardian on the Inclement Weather Dismissal Arrangement form. This form is sent home with every student at the beginning of the school year and can be updated as necessary.

Please discuss with your child, the arrangements you have indicated on the Inclement Weather Dismissal Arrangement form. The teacher will review these arrangements with your child before he/she is sent home. Every effort will be made to insure that no child is sent to a home without proper supervision. The safety of every child will always be a major concern and foremost in the minds of school personnel and parent volunteers. If you question whether there will be an early dismissal, a phone call to the school is always welcome.

EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
A number of extra-curricular activities are sponsored for students. Included among these are an intramural program, Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, a Ski Program, drama and school productions, Junior Great Books, Guitar and the After-School Enrichment Program. Parents will be notified about registration for and participation in these activities.

Unauthorized entrance to any area of the building and/or use of any equipment without proper supervision is prohibited. Students involved in any after school activities at AES are expected to follow all school rules and behave appropriately. Failure to observe these rules could result in disciplinary action. Prompt pick-up of students at the conclusion of each program session is the responsibility of the parent/guardian.

FALSE ALARMS AND BOMB THREATS

Participation in false alarms and making bomb threats are illegal and will be dealt with harshly by school and police authorities.

FIRE AND INTRUDER DRILLS

Fire and intruder emergency drills are conducted regularly in compliance with district policy and Massachusetts State Law. During a fire drill, Ashby fire and police authorities are notified. The alarm system is checked. The principal, the school secretary, and the custodians station themselves throughout the building observing students and checking the time necessary to evacuate the building. A serious attitude toward these drills is stressed with everyone. The primary result of these drills is to familiarize students with emergency procedures. Reports on all drills are sent to the Superintendent's office. The Ashby Fire Chief, along with an Ashby police officer are present at all fire drills. Intruder emergency drills are employed in the event of an intruder being in the school hallway or if other emergency situations warrant students remaining in classrooms with the doors locked. At least eight fire drills and two intruder emergency drills will be conducted each school year.

FIREARMS AND OTHER WEAPONS/ASSAULTIVE BEHAVIOR

Massachusetts School Reform Act of 1993: Section 37H – All students and visitors to AES are reminded that Massachusetts state law states that the possession of a firearm or other dangerous weapon in any building, on a school bus or on the grounds of any elementary or secondary school is a crime punishable by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars or by imprisonment for not more than one year, or both. The following provisions are found in Section 37H of the Massachusetts School Reform Act of 1993.

(a) Any student who is found on school premises or at school sponsored-related events, including athletic games in possession of a dangerous weapon, including, but not limited to, a gun or a knife; or a controlled substance as defined in chapter 94C of the General Laws, including, but not limited to, marijuana, cocaine, and heroin, may be subject to expulsion from the school or school district.
(b) Any student who assaults a principal, assistant principal, teacher, teacher’s aide or other educational staff on school premises or at a school-sponsored or school-related events, including athletic games, may be subject to expulsion from the school or school district.
(c) Any student who has been charged with or convicted of a felony may be subject to expulsion from the school or school district.
(d) Any student who is charged with a violation of either paragraph (a), (b), (c) shall be notified in writing of an opportunity to present evidence and witnesses at said hearing before the principal. After said hearing, a principal may, in his/her discretion, decide to suspend rather than recommend expulsion to the superintendent for a student who has been determined by the principal to have violated either paragraph (a), (b), or (c).
(e) Any student who has been expelled from a school district pursuant to these provisions shall have the right to appeal to the superintendent. The expelled student shall have ten days from the date of the expulsion in which to notify the superintendent of his appeal. The student has the right to counsel to a factual determination of whether the student has violated any provisions of this section.
(f) When a student is expelled under the provisions of this section, no school or school district within the commonwealth shall be required to admit such student or to provide educational services to said student. If the said student does not apply for admission to another school or school district, the superintendent of the school district to which the application is made may request and shall receive from the superintendent of the school expelling said student a written statement of the reasons for said expulsion.

Section 37 of the Massachusetts General Laws, require school personnel to report incidents involving a student's possession of a dangerous weapon on school premises. Reports are to be transmitted to the local police and Department of Social Services and students involved shall be referred to counseling.

1. Any student who is found on school premises or at school-sponsored or school-related events, including athletic games, in possession of a dangerous weapon or replica, including, but not limited to, a gun or a knife; or a controlled substance as defined in chapter 94C, including, but not limited to, marijuana, cocaine, and heroin, may be subject to suspension or expulsion from the school or school district.
2. Any student who assaults a principal, assistant principal, teacher, teacher's aide, or other educational staff on school premises or at school-sponsored or school-related event, including athletic games, may be subject to expulsion from the school or school district.
3. Any student who has been charged with or convicted of a felony may be subject to expulsion from the school or district.
4. Any student who is charged with a violation of either paragraph (1), (2) or (3) shall be notified in writing of an opportunity for a hearing; provided, however, that the student may have representation, along with the opportunity to present evidence and witness at said hearing before the principal. After said hearing, a principal may, in his discretion, decide to suspend rather than expel a student who has been determined by the principal to have violated either paragraph (1), (2) or (3).
5. Any student who has been expelled from the school district pursuant to these provisions shall have the right to appeal to the Superintendent of Schools. The expelled student shall have ten days from the date of the expulsion in which to notify the Superintendent of his/her appeal. The student has the right to counsel at a hearing before the Superintendent. The subject matter of the appeal shall not be limited solely to a factual determination of whether the student has violated any provisions of this section.
6. When a student is expelled under the provisions of this section, no school or school district within the commonwealth shall be required to admit such student or to provide educational services to said student. If said student does not apply for admission to another school or school district, the superintendent of the school district to which the application is made may request and shall receive from the superintendent of the school expelling said student a written statement of the reasons for said expulsion. (XVII)

GUESTS AT SCHOOL

Due to the possible disruption of the normal school day, students may not bring a student guest to school. Insurance and liability issues also impact on this policy decision.

GUIDANCE COUNSELOR

AES has the services of a guidance counselor. In addition to the individual and group counseling, the counselor also chairs the Child Study Committee, is involved with all aspects of the special education program within the school, is available for crisis intervention and management, is a child advocate within the school, teaches classroom guidance classes and the second step program. The counselor also coordinates the school testing programs, meets with parents to discuss pertinent student issues, acts as student liaison when needed, works with teachers and other staff members in order to help build an environment that supports children and learning.

HOMEWORK GUIDELINES

In the North Middlesex Regional School District, we value study that occurs beyond the classroom and school day largely because we have learned through research and practice that good homework accelerates achievement and establishes a positive work ethic invaluable in later pursuits. To this end, the assignment of homework aligns with what educators and others believe to be the primary purposes of homework: the reinforcement of skills and knowledge learned in the classroom, the application of learning to a new situation, and the independent acquisition of skills and knowledge.

Additionally, educators offer these justifications for the assignment of homework:
• To provide opportunity for parents and children to work together on academic pursuits,
• To keep parents abreast of the curriculum,
• To serve as a guide to the teacher in planning instruction,
• To develop study habits and a work ethic among students, and
• To provide activities that support other learning styles.

With these thoughts in mind, the following guidelines for homework have been established:
1. In the primary and early elementary grades, the emphasis will be on reading and mathematics.
2. All projects assigned will reflect the primary purpose(s) of homework, will be given sufficient time for completion, and will not be due immediately upon return from vacation. Recognizing the difficulties associated with determining individual student contributions and equitable grading, teachers are discouraged from assigning out-of-school group projects unless these issues can be assessed with certainty.
3. Daily homework at the elementary level will generally be assigned for 10 minutes of study per grade level. Thus, the grade 5 student can expect nightly assignments that can be completed in approximately 50 minutes.
4. At the middle school level students can generally expect up to 90 minutes of nightly homework. Communication among middle school teachers is essential to ensure compliance with this guideline.
5. At the secondary level students can generally expect two hours of nightly homework. For students in advanced level classes, more time will be required.
6. The teacher and the student will assess all homework assignments. Collected homework will be returned to the student in a timely fashion.
7. Homework generally should not count for more than 20% of a student’s grade. There will be consistency regarding this guideline.
8. Teachers will communicate in a timely manner with parents when homework assignments are not being completed. Parents will communicate with teachers if their children are experiencing difficulty with assignments.
9. When assigning homework at the elementary and middle school levels, teachers need to be aware of extra-curricular school events in which many students are involved.
10. Parents are encouraged to utilize the resources available through the school to assist students with the successful completion of assignments.

INSURANCE

Parents will have the option of purchasing student accident insurance only at the beginning of the year. Forms should be completed and returned to the teacher.

INTERNET USE POLICY

North Middlesex Elementary School (PK-5) Acceptable Use Policy for Computers / Guidelines for Internet/Network Use
The purpose of the NMRSD network is to advance and promote education in the District. It is intended to assist in the collaboration and exchange of information among all who are concerned with education. The primary purpose of using the Internet is to help students gain access to vast amounts of current research being conducted locally nationally, and world-wide and to communicate with other students with similar interests, who are on the network.

Access to the Internet must be in support of education and research. The use of the Internet/Network is a privilege, not a right. You are responsible for what you say and do on the network. Through the use of the Internet and the use of e-mail, it is possible to communicate easily and quickly with people all over the world. Operation /safety of the Internet, even though the students are supervised, relies heavily on the proper conduct of its users. Network administrators will make reasonable efforts to maintain reliable services and user privacy, but they cannot guarantee that the system will always be available or that files will always be saved, nor can privacy be completely guaranteed. The district considers Internet access a privilege.

The following guidelines for computer use have been established:

Acceptable Use
• Use must be of an educational nature consistent with school policy.
• Each student will respect and uphold the copyright laws.
• No student will deliberately access educationally inappropriate materials, persuade or show others how to do the same.
• Each student will follow regulations posted in the computer lab or where computers are in use.
• Each student will follow the directions of the adult in charge.
• Cell/Phones / PDA’s with built-in cameras are prohibited.

Privileges
• Internet access is a privilege, not a right.
• Inappropriate usage could result in cancellation of privileges.
• Training will be provided for each individual before they may use the Internet.

Netiquette (proper behavior on the Internet)
• Never give out personal information (i.e. social security number, telephone number, mailing address or any other identifying information).
• Be polite.
• Do not use inappropriate language.
• Electronic mail (E-mail) is not guaranteed to be private and will be read by the teacher before distributing or sending to others.
Security
• Each student will respect the privacy of his/her peers’ files that are stored on a computer or disk and not view those files without permission.

Vandalism
• Vandalism will result in cancellation of the offender’s user privileges.
• No student will deliberately or willfully cause damage to computer equipment or software.
• No student will reconfigure software/system settings.
• No student will harm or destroy data of another user, the Internet or other networks.
• Each student is responsible to report any damage or inappropriate use of the computers to the adult in charge.

Penalties
• Any student violating these guidelines is subject to loss of computer user privileges and/or possible legal action.
• A student’s parent/guardian will be held responsible for deliberate vandalism.

Terms and Conditions
The administration will deem what is inappropriate use and their decision is final. The administration, faculty, and staff may request the system administrator to deny, revoke or suspend specific users. NMRSD will not be responsible for damages one suffers, including loss of data resulting from delay, non-deliveries, miss deliveries, or service interruptions caused by the school’s own negligence, one’s errors or omissions. Use of any information obtained via the Network is at your own risk. NMRSD specifically denies any responsibility for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through its services.

Students and parents will be asked to sign and date this policy at the beginning of each school year. (XX)

INTRAMURAL PROGRAMS

Intramural programs are conducted after school hours during the fall. Those students wishing to participate must have signed parent permission. Transportation of students at the conclusion of each intramural session is the responsibility of the parent/guardian. Students may be excluded from intramurals due to disciplinary reasons or if requested to stay after school to complete schoolwork.

LIBRARY USAGE

Library services are available to all students in the school. Each class is scheduled for one library period per week, and teachers may send students at other open library times for individual or group projects or assignments. Students may check out library books each week. Students will be charged for lost or damaged books. Students will have access to an extensive selection of books, research materials and supervised Internet access. All students are expected to treat library materials properly and respect those students utilizing the library facilities.

LOCKER SEARCH

All lockers and desks are the property of the NMRSD. The storage of contraband (i.e. weapons, drugs, inhalants, alcohol, and stolen property) in school lockers or desks is not permissible. Lockers and desks are provided for use that is consistent with legitimate school activities. All school administrators or their designee reserve the right to inspect or search lockers if reasonable suspicion exists that this policy is being violated.

A search of NMRSD property, such as lockers or desks, is justified when school official initiating the search has reasonable grounds for suspecting it will turn up evidence that the student in question has violated or is violating the law or rules of the school. The school retains joint custody of all desks and lockers and these areas are subject to search by school officials at any time.

In addition, an administrator or designee can legally search a student or his/her possessions while on school property or at a school-related event if there is reasonable suspicion that the student as violated or is in violation of either the law or rules of the school. Students who refuse to participate in a search may face disciplinary action up to and including suspension. (XXI)

LOST AND FOUND

Students are encouraged to be responsible for their own possessions. Neither the school nor teachers will be held accountable for lost items. Items, which are found, will be placed on the lost and found table located in the front lobby area. Items not claimed will be given to charity at the end of each semester. All articles of clothing, lunch boxes, and school supplies should be clearly marked with the pupil's name. Valuable items should be left at home unless they are part of a school production or learning experience.

LUNCH PROGRAM

Lunches including milk are available each day for $1.50. Milk or juice can be purchased separately for $.50. Lunches for adults are also available. Lunches can be paid for on a weekly or monthly basis only if paid for in advance. Free and reduced lunches are available to families who qualify. Questions about your child's lunch account should be directed to the cafeteria manager. Students are expected to come with their lunch money. If a student forgets their lunch money, a slip will be issued and given to the student to take home. Efforts are made to provide children and adults with lunches that are nutritious, attractive, and conform to current standards of healthy eating habits. (fat content, sodium content, etc.) Students who have not eaten lunch will not be allowed to purchase a snack. No morning snacks will be available through the cafeteria, however, parents are encouraged to provide their children in Grades 1-4 with nutritious snacks each day. These snacks will be considered “working snacks”.

MEDICAL INFORMATION/REQUIREMENTS

KINDERGARTEN:
Screening will be done in early March. Check individual school for times. Ashby students will attend Ashby Elementary. *** Registration packets should be picked up before hand and filled out prior to registration date.
The following documentation is required:
1. Copy of birth certificate
2. Immunization record indicating the child has received the following immunizations: DPT (5doses), Polio (4doses), MMR (2dose), HepB (3 doses), Varicella (1dose or physician certified proof of chicken pox)
3. Recent physical exam with a record of at least one lead test.
4. Medical documentation of any allergies or medical concerns.

ALL NEW STUDENTS ENTERING DISTRICT GRADE 1-12:
The following documentation is required:
1. Copy of birth certificate
2. Immunization record indicating the child has received the following immunizations: DPT (5doses), Polio (4doses), MMR (2dose), HepB (3 doses), Varicella (1dose or physician certified proof of chicken pox)
3. Recent physical exam.
4. Medical documentation of any allergies or medical concerns.

Entrance Requirements: The Commonwealth of Massachusetts has strict regulations concerning immunizations of children who attend school. Students who do not meet these requirements, WILL NOT be allowed to attend. Questions may be directed to the school nurse.

School Nurse: our school nurse who is a licensed registered nurse; employed on a full time basis in our school manages medical services and the school health program. If a child becomes ill or is injured while at school, the child will be sent to the nurse’s office. If necessary, the nurse will contact the parent or guardian. If unavailable, another contact person, whom you have designated on your child’s emergency card, will be contacted to assure temporary care of your child. Only those people, who the parent has listed on the card, can be contacted to dismiss a child, when the parent cannot be reached.

Emergency Cards: At the start of every school year, an Emergency Information Card is issued to each student. Both sides of the card should be completed and the backside must be signed by the parent or guardian. Please notify the school of any changes regarding emergency card information, throughout the year. The cards are kept in the nurse and front offices.

Illness: It is our goal to have students strive for good attendance. There are times when your child may not be perfectly healthy, but is well enough to be in school and should be encouraged to attend. However, there are also those times, when your child may wish to come to school, but is not well enough to be able to take on a full school day and for their sake and that of their classmates, would be better off at home. Please keep your child at home when he/she:
* has a fever of 100 or more, and until the child has had a normal temperature for 24 hours.
* has been vomiting the night before or in the morning before school
* has an uncontrollable or infectious cough
* has signs of infection of the eyes, ears, nose, throat, skin or scalp.

Examples:
Conjunctivitis or pink eye, strep throat, impetigo, scabies or lice.
Any questions regarding school attendance may be directed to the school nurse or your child’s physician.
Prolonged Absences: the school nurse will contact the family, if a student has an unexplained absence of three days or longer. After an absence of ten days, a doctor’s note is required before the child can be readmitted to school.

Injury: If your child is injured and will be attending school with a splint, ace bandage or cast, please send a note or contact the school nurse to clarify the nature of the injury and provide information regarding activity restrictions. A physician’s note is required to exempt a student from physical education class or recess due to injuries. If the note does not provide a finite date, at which point the child is cleared to return to all activities, then a follow-up note from the doctor will be necessary to reinstate a student in P.E. class.

Accident Insurance: Forms are sent home with students each year allowing families to purchase insurance. This insurance is available for school hours only or for complete 24-hour coverage.

Entrance Requirements: The Commonwealth of Massachusetts has strict regulations concerning immunizations of children who attend school. Students who do not meet these requirements, WILL NOT be allowed to attend. Questions may be directed to the school nurse.
Immunization Requirements
Hepatitis B . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Doses
DtaP/DTP . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Doses*
Polio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Doses
MMR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Doses measles, 1 dose Mumps, 1 dose Rubella
Varicella . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Dose **
*If DT is given without Pertussis, a letter of exemption from the child’s physician is required.
**1 Dose of Varivax or physician certified, reliable history of chicken pox disease.

Other Requirements:

IN SCHOOL SCREENINGS AND GRADE REQUIREMENTS:

Physical exams are offered in grades K, 4,8,10. Sports physicals are offered for High School in August. Check with individual schools for dates. Students participating in after school sports must have a physical exam on file in Nurse’s office within on year of starting sport as per MIAA regulations.

Vision Screening is done on all students Kindergarten – Gr.5, Gr. 7, & Gr. 10.
Hearing screening is done on all students Kindergarten – Gr.3, Gr. 7, and Gr. 10.
Postural Screening is done on all students Grade 5-9. Middle school students are screened the week after winter break; 9th grade screened the week of January 24th between 2nd and 3rd quarter. Notices will go home prior to screening.
Heights and Weight sand BMI are done on all students annually

Grade 7 entrance immunization requirements All students must show proof of the following immunizations prior to September of their 7th grade year.
1. 2nd MMR vaccine
2. 3 doses of Hepatitis B (or new 2 dose series)
3. Td booster (adult tetanus) or TDaP (adult tetanus with pertussis component) if it has been more than 5 years since last dose.
4. Varicella vaccine or Physician certified proof of chicken pox.(XVIII)

MEDICATION POLICY
According to Massachusetts General Laws, a licensed nurse must have a medication order from a physician, dentist, nurse practitioner, or physician’s assistant, in order to administer any medication, whether it is a prescription drug or over-the-counter medication. If a student must take prescribed medication during school hours because it cannot be given at home, only: the following policies have been put in place to ensure the health and safety of our students.
• Signed Medication Order – A Medication Permission Form may be obtained from the school nurse for your child’s physician to complete. The order must be renewed as necessary and at the beginning of each school year.
• Signed Parental Consent – The signature of a parent or guardian is also required for medication to be administrated. There is a place for this signature on the bottom of the Medication Permission Form.
• Medications – Medications must be delivered to the school in a pharmacy or manufacturer-labeled container, by an adult. Students are not allowed to transport medication back and forth to school. No more than a 30-day supply of medicine should be delivered to school. Non–prescription medication can only be administered with a physician’s order for a specific illness.
Questions Regarding Medication: Please contact the school nurse at (978) 386-7266.

MUSIC PRODUCTIONS
At least two student concerts (December and in May, for Grades 3-5/June for Grades K-2) are held each year under the direction of the AES Music and Band Teacher. Band students meet each week for instrumental lessons. An instrumental rental night is held in September for those students and their parent/guardian, interested in participating in the band program.

PARENT NOTIFICATION RELATIVE TO SEX EDUCATION
Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 71, Section 32A, require that parents/guardians of students in our schools be notified in writing of the courses and curriculum we offer that primarily involve human sexual education or human sexuality issues.

At Ashby Elementary School the health education curriculum related to these issues include topics such as human growth and development in Grade 5, stranger safety in Grades K-5 and the prevention of HIV/AIDS in Grade 5. If you would like to view the curriculum and instructional materials we use for this course, you are welcome to do so. Please call the principal to arrange a convenient time.

In addition, under Massachusetts law and School Committee policy a parent may exempt a child from any portion of the curriculum that primarily involves human sexual education or human sexuality issues. To receive an exemption, simply send a letter to the principal requesting the exemption. No student who is exempted from this portion of the curriculum will be penalized. We may provide an alternative assignment to students who are exempted.

PARENT NOTICES
Parent information flyers will be sent home in student’s red folders. (We are using the red folder of the youngest sibling in each household.) Newsletters will also be posted on the district’s website: www.nmiddlesex.mec.edu (select AES). Please check your child’s red folder on a daily basis for the school newsletter as well as any other notices sent home.

PARENT RIGHTS
Court Abrogated Rights:
The parents of a child shall enjoy all the rights accorded under law (even if estranged and non-custodial) unless such rights are explicitly abrogated by court order and such order has been presented to the school. IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF A PARENT, FOSTER PARENT, OR GUARDIAN TO PRODUCE THE COURT ORDER, WHICH ABROGATES THE RIGHTS OF EITHER OR BOTH PARENTS. Parents are encouraged to provide the school with any and all documents, which are current and related to custody issues. (IV)

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES
Teachers are expected to provide adequate feedback to parents regarding students’ strengths, and areas where improvement is needed. Teachers are expected to meet in conference with each child’s parents at least twice during the school year. Formal parent/teacher conferences are scheduled following the first (November) and second (February) marking terms. Open House evenings for parents to meet with their child’s teacher(s) and learn about the classroom program will be held in mid-September. Concerned parents should contact teachers immediately to discuss their child’s progress. If a student is in danger of being retained at his/her present grade level, the parent/guardian must be called in for a conference with the teacher. In the event of inclement weather during formal parent conferences, the following will occur: If there is no school, parent conferences will be rescheduled. If there is a delayed opening, parent conferences will be canceled and rescheduled to another date with dismissal at 3:15 PM. If there is an early dismissal due to inclement weather, parent conferences will be canceled and rescheduled to another date.

PARENT/TEACHER COOPERATIVE (PTC)
The major purpose of the PTC is to promote the education and general welfare of all school children. This is accomplished through the cooperative efforts of parents, teachers, and community members. Notice of PTC meetings will be given in advance and are posted on this calendar. The PTC plays an active role in funding and arranging for the school’s assembly program.

PTC volunteers are a vital part of the school program. Among the many services volunteers can provide are: tutoring small groups and individuals, supervising computer use, assisting in the school office, and chaperoning field trips. A room mother is appointed for each classroom to organize class parties and to coordinate the class’s involvement in PTC activities. The PTC sponsors a number of fund raising activities and student and parent social activities at the school.

PARKING LOT
When entering the school parking lot, please use the main parking lot entrance. If you are parking to walk your child to the front door, are visiting the school building or picking up your child, please park near the pond located at the far end of the parking lot. No vehicles (except handicapped designated) will be allowed to use the driveway located directly in front of the school building between 8:15 AM - 4:00 PM on school days.

AES Arrival and Dismissal Procedures

AES AM Drop off procedures:

To drop off children, drive along the edge of the parking lot by the pond. Drop children off at the coned section. Staff members will only be stationed on the pond side of AES to greet your children. Your children will then walk up the left side of the hill and into the building through the front doors. Leave the parking lot through the usual exit. Please see diagram for further explanation.

The hill is only used as a walkway to the entrance of the school for both parent drop off and busses. Busses unload in the parking lot area.
If you need to park your vehicle to visit the school during the AM, please follow the AM procedure and park behind the coned section on the left/pond side of the parking lot.

AES PM Pick up procedures:

Parents please park in the parking lot on the left side of the building. Parents walk up the hill to the green door, checking in with the adult in the Parent Resource Room across from the hall from the door (formerly the Music Room) NO EARLIER THAN 3:00PM. Depart from the parking lot at the exit sign.

REMINDERS:

There is no parking permitted at the bottom of the hill between the Town Hall and the School, as that is a fire lane.

IT IS ILLEGAL to pass a bus with their stop sign and lights on EVEN IN A SCHOOL YARD. You will get a ticket!!! Only busses will enter the parking lot on the town hall side during the morning and afternoon drop off.

Any changes to any dismissal plans must be done by 12:00, unless there is an emergency. All changes to dismissal plans must be made in writing. Our fax number is 978-386-0973. To be sure we received your fax after sending your fax, please wait a while and call the office to be sure you change has been received and recorded.

PARTY INVITATIONS

As long as everyone in a class is given an invitation, it is okay to distribute invitations in the classroom (in fairness to all students).

PERSONAL VALUABLES

Students should refrain from bringing large sums of money or other valuable articles to school. If it is necessary to bring such items, check them with the teacher until needed.

PROHIBITION OF THE USE OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS

The Education Reform Act of 1993 became effective on June 16, 1993. Under Section 37H of the Act, it states that "The Superintendent of every school district shall publish the district's policies pertaining to the conduct of teachers and students. Said policies shall prohibit the use of any tobacco product within the school building, school facilities, school grounds, or on school buses by any individual including school personnel."

The NMRSD School Committee is dedicated to providing a healthful, comfortable and productive environment for staff, students, and citizens. The School Committee believes that education plays a critical role in establishing life long health habits for its students.

Enforcement Regulations

The success of this School Committee Policy depends upon the thoughtfulness, consideration and cooperation of smokers and non-smokers. All individuals share in the responsibility of adhering to and enforcing the policy. Any individual who observes a violation may report it in accordance with the procedures listed below.

Students
Any violation of this policy by students shall be referred to the building principal. Students who violate provisions of this policy shall be subject to a school suspension for up to three days.

Staff
Any violation of the policy by staff shall be referred to the appropriate supervisor. First-time violators shall receive a verbal warning. Second and third offenses will result in written warnings by the immediate supervisor with a copy being placed in the personnel file. Further violations will result in referral of the employee to the Superintendent of Schools for implementation of progressive discipline.

Citizens
Citizens who are observed smoking in school buildings or on school grounds shall be asked to refrain from smoking. If the individual fails to comply with the request, his or her violation of policy may be referred to the building principal or other school supervisory personnel responsible for the area or program during which the violation occurred. The supervisor shall make a decision on further action, which may include a directive to leave school property. Repeated violations may result in a recommendation to the Superintendent to prohibit the individual from entering school property for a specified period of time. If deemed necessary by school administration, the local law enforcement agency may be called upon to assist with enforcement of this policy.

PUBLICATION POLICY

A form is sent home at the beginning of the school year pertaining to release of student information for publication in local newspapers. Parents who do not want information or photographs of their child released should complete the form and return it to the homeroom teacher. Listed is information which often appears in the newspaper: Student Awards and Achievements, Special Class Projects, School Activities, School Clubs, Homeroom Assignments.

REPORT CARDS/PROGRESS REPORTS AND GRADING

Report cards will be issued to students four times per year at the conclusion of each marking term. Students are expected to return their signed report card envelopes to their teacher on the next school day after report cards are issued. Progress reports, for grades 3, 4, & 5, are sent home with students at the mid-point of each marking term but can be issued at any time during a marking term if a student is demonstrating academic or behavioral difficulties. Progress reports may be written or discussed with parents on the telephone.

Progress reports will contain information on the student’s behavior, effort, and academic progress. Parents/guardians who have not received a copy from their son/daughter should contact the school office. Every effort should be made to inform parents/guardians whenever students are failing for each quarter.

Weekly progress reports are available from the Guidance Office upon request. The parent/guardian may, at any time, ask the student to get a progress report and bring it to each teacher for comments and signatures.

Students in Grades 3-5 are graded in each major academic subject area according to the following scale:
A+ 97 or above A 93-96
A- 90-92 B+ 87-89
B 83-86 B- 80-82
C+ 77-79 C 73-76
C- 70-72 D 65-69
P Pass - issued in certain Pass/Fail subjects
F Below 65
INC Incomplete - Students unable to complete work due to circumstances beyond their control (e.g., illness, personal problems, etc.). Permission must be granted by an administrator. Unless otherwise arranged, incomplete work will be changed to an “F” after two weeks.

The individual developmental growth of each student in grades K-2 will be assessed through the use of a numbered assessment system denoting academic progress and the use of S, N, I and U for assessing student performance in work habits and behavioral/social development.

RESPECT OF SCHOOL, PERSONNEL & STUDENT PROPERTY

Students should exert every effort to preserve the proper condition of the school, including its equipment, books/materials, facilities and grounds from damage and misuse. Students, who willfully or through neglect, destroy, deface, damage or misuse school property, including books, will be subject to discipline, plus restitution in full, including material and labor. Whenever appropriate, all textbooks issued to students should be covered. All school books, lockers and other school materials or equipment issued to or used by students are the property of the North Middlesex Regional School District. Since lockers are considered school property, they may be searched when necessary.

Threats directed to the school, school personnel, students or their personal property will result in significant disciplinary action and possible police involvement. Deliberate destruction or damage to school property or the property of school personnel or students will also result in significant disciplinary action and possible referral to the police.

Physical action or assault and battery toward school personnel will result in suspension for up to 10 school days and possible expulsion from school. Police authorities will be notified.

SCHOOL BUS USE PROCEDURE

By law, all public schools are required to review school bus riding practices three times per year. The first time will be in September with the principal, the second in January and again in the spring during the bus evacuation drills.

The regulations for school bus use for all students Grades K-12 in the North Middlesex Regional Schools are:

Previous to Loading: (on the road and at the school)
• Be on time at the designated bus stop.
• Stay off the road at all times while waiting for the bus. Bus riders should conduct themselves in a safe manner while waiting.
• Wait until the bus comes to a complete stop before attempting to step onto the bus.
• Do not crowd and push getting on the bus.
• Respectfully follow the instructions of school staff members on duty.

While on the Bus:
• Keep hands and head inside the bus. Keep your hands to yourself and don’t touch others inappropriately. Horseplay or fighting are not permitted on or around the school bus at any time.
• Assist in keeping the bus safe and sanitary. (DO NOT throw things on the bus, spit or litter the bus)
• Keep voice tone at a moderate level. Do not swear or use vulgar or derogatory language.
• As written in the school district’s sexual harassment policy, sexual harassment or assault will not be tolerated on the bus and will result in disciplinary action.
• Treat bus equipment/property as you would the furniture in your own home. Damage to bus equipment/property will be paid for by the offender.
• DO NOT leave books, lunches, or other articles on the bus.
• Keep books, packages, coats, and all other objects out of aisles, by placing them on your lap.
• Help look after the safety and comfort of small children.
• DO NOT throw objects inside the bus or out the bus window.
• DO NOT leave or change your seat while the bus is in motion.
• Be courteous to fellow pupils and the bus driver.
• Remain quiet when approaching a railroad crossing.
• Remain on the bus unless requested to leave by the bus driver in an emergency situation.
• Sit where you are assigned.
• A written permission slip from the parent/guardian is necessary in order for a student to get on or off the bus at a place other than his/her regular bus stop. Students must get on or off the bus at their assigned stop.
• Continued refusal to obey promptly the directions of the driver or refusal to obey bus regulations may cause a student to be referred to the principal for disciplinary action.
• Possessing a weapon, lighting matches, smoking, alcohol and drug use on the bus are prohibited and will result in disciplinary action.
After Leaving Bus:
• Cross the road, when necessary, immediately after getting off the bus, at least ten feet in front of the bus, and only after looking to be sure that no traffic is approaching from either direction.

Extra-Curricular and Field Trips
• Bus rules and regulations will apply to any trip under school sponsorship.
• Pupils shall respect the wishes of teachers and chaperones appointed by the school.

Bus Contractors
Mrs. Amadon, Brookside of West Townsend (978) 597-2954
Mr. Dow, Atlantic Express/McCarty Bus Company, Townsend (978) 597-2687

Disciplinary Action
North Middlesex Regional School District Policy (#5419.02):

Students who cause disciplinary problems on the bus may be denied the privilege of riding the bus. Severe disciplinary problems will result in immediate removal from the bus for safety reasons. If a bus contractor/driver refers a student to the principal for disciplinary actions, the following procedure will be followed:

WARNING: The first time a student receives a written bus discipline form from a driver, the principal will meet with the student and the parent will be notified. Unless the offense is of a very serious nature, the disciplinary action will result in a warning being given.

REMOVAL:
• A second written bus discipline complaint will result in loss of busing privileges for a period of from one to ten days except in the case of a very serious offense. Parents will be notified by telephone and written notice.
• The third offense will result in the loss of busing privileges for a period of from three to twenty school days. Parents will be notified by telephone and written notice and a parent conference will be held before a student can be reinstated on the bus.
• The fourth offense will result in the loss of busing privileges for a period of more than twenty school days. Parents will be notified by telephone and written notice and a parent conference will be held before a student can be reinstated on the bus.
• It should be noted that a student may lose his/her busing privilege after a very serious bus offense if, in the best interest of the safety and well being of other bus students, his/her conduct so merits.
• The regulations and disciplinary action outlined herewith also apply to behavior at all bus stops.

Please keep in mind that according to state statute parents are responsible for transporting students to and from school if they are removed from a bus for disciplinary reasons. Parents are expected to cooperate with school administration and bus drivers in promoting safe and efficient bus transportation for their children. Unless a note written by a parent specifies another destination, all students will be transported from the school directly to their regular bus stop. When parents wish to take their child home from school, arrangements should be made before the bus leaves the school. In no case should parents stop the bus along the roadway at an undesignated stop to remove their children. The bus driver will not let children off the bus at any undesignated stop unless a parent note approved by the school office has been received by the bus driver or in an emergency situation. (II)

SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETINGS/ORDER OF BUSINESS

At regular meetings of the District School Committee the following shall be the order of business:
1. Roll Call.
2. Approval of the Minutes of the Previous Regular Meeting & any Intervening Special Meetings.
3. Information Items/Superintendent’s Report*
4. Old Business.
5. New Business.
6. Adjournment/End of Meeting

*At this point in the meeting, the Chair may recognize any member of the public who whishes to address the Committee. Committee members may ask to have a member of the public recognized. In the event a member of the public does wish to speak, they should receive a copy of the procedures they are expected to follow. In the event a printed copy is unavailable, the chair shall clearly explain the rules for addressing the Committee.

a. The Committee must be informed of the topic to be addressed. Whenever possible advance notice of a topic to be addressed should be given to the Chair or a member of the Committee. It should be determined that an individual has followed the appropriate chain of authority. Any written statement should be presented to the Committee and summarized when speaking.
b. Persons addressing the Committee may address only issues over which the Committee has direct control. The topic should deal only with agenda items.
c. Members of the public may have two minutes to address the Committee, unless the majority of the Committee wishes to grant more time to an individual.
d. No motions or actions should be made or taken by the Committee during this portion of the meeting. The chair may recognize the superintendent, other administrators or members of the Committee if they wish to ask questions or address comments specific to the topic that has been raised. No one shall be recognized until the speaker has finished addressing the Committee or has used the allotted time.
e. The Committee must insure that the rights of District employees and students are protected.
f. Persons should avail themselves of NMRSD Policy Books available in all public libraries in the District and in each school in the District.
g. This policy will be included in each school handbook. (IX)

SCHOOL COUNCIL/SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT PLAN

The AES Council is an advisory council to the principal and functions in compliance with Massachusetts Department of Education regulations. Membership consists of parents, teachers, administration and Ashby community representatives. In its advisory role, the School Council works with the principal and the school faculty to investigate ways in which various aspects of the school program may be improved. Part of the work of the Ashby Elementary School Council is to develop a yearly school improvement plan that is mandated by the Massachusetts Education Reform Act. Core values are identified and implemented for each school year. Previously identified core values include: developing greater parent/community involvement, promoting greater student responsibility, implementing the Curriculum Frameworks, providing additional challenging activities and enrichment opportunities for students, increasing student social skills, fostering knowledge and appreciation of world languages and cultures, developing student study and organizational skills, promoting health, nutrition and physical fitness activities and fostering citizenship qualities, developing student communication skills, encouraging literacy at home and school, broadening understanding and appreciation of the school community through exploration of world geography and cultures, increasing the students’ awareness of their role in the community, heightening the students’ awareness and appreciation of the environment and enhancing the students’ understanding of fundamental mathematical concepts so that they can apply their knowledge to real world situations. In addition to these ongoing core values which have been incorporated previously into the school program, a new core value will be implemented during the 2006-2007 school year: “to enhance the students’ personal responsibility, awareness and knowledge of safety.”

SCHOOL PICTURES

Individual student pictures will be taken in the fall and individual, along with class pictures, in the spring of the school year. Notices will be sent home with the cost and dates that pictures will be taken. Students are not required to purchase school pictures.

SCHOOL RECORDS AND TESTING

Each student has a folder in which is kept pertinent material materials such as registration form, report cards, IEP information, standardized test score information, etc. Parents may examine the contents of their child's folder in line with district policy (24 hour notice is required). Student information is confidential -- in line with district, state and professional ethical standards.

Student records are found in various locations throughout AES. Such record information, and where it may be found, may include:

Record Information Location
Cumulative Folders (grades, report cards, Main Office
correspondence with parents, achievement
test results, suspension & other discipline
information, registration information)
Reading/Language Arts/Math Portfolios Teachers' Classrooms
Medical Records Nurse's Office
Attendance Records Main Office
Child Study File Guidance’s Office
Special Education File Principal’s & District Special Education Offices
Title I File Title One Room

Formal student testing during this school year includes: Grade 2 - Iowa Test of Basic Skills; Grade 3 - MCAS Reading and Math Tests; Grade 4 - Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) in Reading, Writing and Mathematics; Grade 5 – Iowa Test of Basic Skills and MCAS Reading, Math, Science and History Tests. Parents will be notified in advance of any testing to be done. Students who have individual education plans may have testing accommodations, modifications or, in rare instances, may be administered an alternative assessment tool. Mid-year and/or end of year school district mathematics assessments will be administered in Grades 1 - 5. District writing assessments are administered in March (to students in grades 3-5) and May (to students in grades K-2).

Finally, you should be aware that information with respect to participation in school activities, achievements, and award receipts will be released to the press from time to time.

If you have any questions with respect to student records or the governing regulations, please contact the Guidance Counselor or the Main Office.

SUMMARY OF REGULATIONS PERTAINING TO STUDENT RECORDS
Student records are of two types: transcript and temporary records. The transcript includes: name, address, course titles, grades, credits and grade level educational progress. The temporary record includes such things as standardized test results, class rank, school sponsored extra-curricular activities, and evaluations and comments by teachers, counselors and other persons.

A parent and a student, who is at least 14 years old, has the right to inspect all portions of the student record upon request to the principal. The record must be made available to the parent or student no later than two days after the request, unless the parent or student consents to a delay.

The parent and student have the right to receive copies of any part of the record. A reasonable fee may be charged for the cost of duplicating the materials. The parent and student may request to have parts of the record interpreted by a counselor or other qualified professional at the school, or may invite anyone else of their choosing to inspect or interpret the record with them. Student record information, and where it may be found, may include:
RECORD INFORMATION Location
CUMULATIVE FOLDERS Main Office
MEDICAL RECORD Nurse’s Office
ATTENDANCE RECORD Main Office

Confidentiality of Records: No individuals or organizations except the parent, student, and school personnel working directly with the student are allowed to have access to information in the student record without the specific, informed, written consent of the parent of the student. Examples of exceptions to this would be requests from the Massachusetts department of education, the Division of special education, and authorized personnel.

Under federal and state law a divorced or separated parent has full access to his/her child’s student records unless there is a court order, state statute, or legally binding document relating to such matters as divorce, separation, or custody specifically revoking their rights. As set forth in the amended regulation, 603 CMR 23.07(5), non-custodial parents are eligible to obtain access to their children's student records unless the school or district has been given documentation that:
1. The non-custodial parent has been denied legal custody based on a threat to the safety of the student or to the custodial parent, or
2. The non-custodial parent has been denied visitation or has been ordered to supervised visitation, or
3. The non-custodial parent's access to the student or to the custodial parent has been restricted by a temporary or permanent protective order, unless the order or any subsequent court order specifically allows access to student record information.

Custodial parents will be notified of this request for records/information.. (III)

Amendment of Records: The parent and student have the right to add relevant comments, information, or other written materials to the student record. In addition, the parent and student have the right to request that information in the record be amended or deleted. The parent and student have a right to a conference with the school principal to make their requests known. Within a week after the conference, the principal must render a decision in writing. If the parent and student are not satisfied with the decision, the regulations contain provisions through which the decision may be appealed to higher authorities in the school system.

Destruction of Records: The regulations require that certain parts of the student record, such as the temporary record, be destroyed a certain period time after the student leaves the school system. The temporary record must be destroyed within five years after the student leaves the school system. The student’s transcript must be kept for sixty years. School authorities are also allowed to destroy misleading, outdated, or irrelevant information in the record from time to time while the student is enrolled in the school system. (XIII)

SEXUAL HARASSMENT

It is the policy of the North Middlesex Regional School District to promote and maintain a working environment and educational atmosphere for students, which is free from sexual harassment. It is illegal and against the policies of the North Middlesex Regional School District for any student, male or female, to sexually harass or assault another student. Administrators and supervisory personnel have a duty to maintain a school environment free of sexual harassment or intimidation.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT may include, but is not limited to:
• Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other inappropriate verbal and physical conduct of a sexual nature.
• Gestures or unwarranted written communication of a suggestive or derogatory nature.
• Continuing to express sexual interest after being informed that the interest is unwelcome.

SEXUAL ASSAULT is the most serious form of sexual harassment and an assault will be treated with the utmost severity. Sexual assault may include, but is not limited to, inappropriate touching, physical conduct of a sexual nature or intentionally impeding movement. An assault is punishable by suspension, possible expulsion, and a report to the police department will be filed. The victim of a sexual assault or harassment is encouraged to express dissatisfaction with the other party immediately. The victim is to promptly inform the principal. Sexual harassment between students may be punishable by suspension, possible police intervention, and possible expulsion. This policy extends to all school sponsored activities and functions whether or not they occur on school grounds. (XII)

SOLICITATIONS/FUNDRAISING INVOLVING AES STUDENTS

Profit-making businesses and organizations will not be permitted to solicit or advertise their services, activities and events through the school or use the children to sell tickets except for those events that are school-sponsored and school district approved activities.

FUND RAISING POLICY: Door-to-door fundraising by students will not be allowed in the NMRSD. The PTC may sponsor one fundraiser each year. (XV)

SPECIAL EDUCATION

Philosophy
The North Middlesex Regional School District Special Education Department in partnership with Regular Education has as its mission the responsibility to prepare students for life long learning. We are committed to educate each student to the maximum extent appropriate in the school and classroom he/she would attend if not disabled. All efforts will be made to ensure that students will be educated with their peers when appropriate. Inclusion emphasizes the establishment of the full continuum of services and affirms the least restrictive environment.

Eligibility
A student may be entitled to special educational services if he or she meets all three of the following requirements:
• He/she is between the ages of 3 and 21 years of age
• He/she has not obtained a high school diploma or its equivalent; and
• He/she has a disability (physical, emotional, or otherwise) that keeps him or her from progressing in a regular class.
• Referral for evaluation may be initiated by either the school or parent if it is anticipated the student is in need of special services. (VI)

A Team of educators, working cooperatively with the parents, determines if a student is eligible for Special Education based upon a thorough evaluation. Prior to any Special Education Evaluation, parental consent is required. Not every student will require all of the assessments offered by the school. Each evaluation must have an educational assessment as well as an assessment by one or more specialists in all areas related to the suspected disability. Eligibility is based upon the determinations of presence of a disability (as defined by state and federal regulations), the lack of progress in the general education program as a result of the disability and the need for specially designed instruction/related services in order for the student to make effective progress.

Individual Educational Program (IEP)
Once the Team determines eligibility, an Individual Education Program (IEP) is written to meet the student’s needs. The IEP is a vehicle for improving the educational experience for a student with disabilities. The IEP provides a focus: What will make the biggest difference for this student’s education? Parents/students have input into the concerns to be addressed in the IEP that will enhance the student’s education and the vision of where the student will be in one to five years from now. Progress reports shall be provided at least as often as parents are informed of the progress of non-disabled students.

STUDENT’ RIGHTS UNDER CHAPTER 766 - Since it is assumed that parents act in their children’s best interests, most of the rights to control a student’s education, and to influence the special education process, are given to the student’s parents while that student is not yet 18 years of age. A Parents’ Rights Brochure from the Massachusetts Department of Education is available in the school office or district special education office. (VII) Parents are encouraged to contact the student’s Special Education teacher, Counselor, Principal or Special Education Director regarding Special Education questions.

NMRSD SPED PAC
North Middlesex Regional School District Special Education Parent Advisory Council is a group of parents and guardians whose mission is to offer support, resources, and information to those interested in enhancing the education of children with special needs. Throughout the academic year, Sped Pac offers a variety of speakers and training sessions to parents, guardians, and educators alike. The Sped Pac will generally meet the third Wednesday of the month at North Middlesex Regional High School, unless otherwise advertised. To become involved or for more information, please contact Amy Sharp at (978) 597-2853 or Kelly Pentedemos at (978) 433-6010.

SPECIAL PROGRAMS
Instructional Support Process
Through the building Instructional Support Process, concerns regarding the educational progress of a student are addressed. The Instructional Support Process usually involves teacher and parent involvement, observations and assessments by staff (with parental consent) and a conference with all concerned parties. The Instructional Support Process meets the procedural requirement that states that all efforts shall be made to meet a child’s needs within the context of the services, which are part of the regular education program. Such efforts and their results shall be documented and placed in the student’s record.

TITLE XVI AND IX GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES - Section 504-Rehabilitation Act of 1973
Section 504 prohibits discrimination against handicapped persons, including both students and staff members, by school districts. The criteria for 504 eligibility are: A person has a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities (including learning) OR a person has a record of such impairment, OR a person is regarded as having such impairment. The intent of Section 504 is to accommodate for differences within the regular education environment so that a child can participate in and receive the benefits from public education programs without discrimination because of his/her handicapping condition. This includes all programs or activities provided by the school district.

Section 504 is not an aspect of special education, but the responsibility of the regular education programming within the school district. In order to fulfill its obligation under Section 504, the North Middlesex Regional School District recognizes a responsibility to avoid discrimination in policies and practices regarding its students and personnel. No discrimination against any person with a handicap will knowingly be permitted in any of the programs and practices in the school district.

If the school identifies that, because of a handicap as defined under Section 504, a student needs either accommodations or related services in the regular setting in order to participate in the school program, the school must evaluate the student. The parent/guardian must be notified and consent obtained prior to the evaluation. The evaluation must be comprehensive and appropriate to assess the nature and extent of the student’s handicap. A decision involving the school educators and the child’s parent/guardian will be made regarding the development and implementation of a plan for the delivery of all needed services, accommodations for the child. The plan will be monitored and reviewed annually, with a formal meeting with parent/guardian.

If a parent/guardian disagrees with the determination made by the professional staff of the school, he/she has the right to discuss concerns with the school Principal, the district coordinators, the Superintendent of Schools or seek a hearing with an impartial hearing officer.

The District Coordinators, Mr. Robert Dempsey and Ms. Susan Alinovi, can be reached at the Central Office. The School Counselor is responsible for monitoring each student’s Section 504 plan. The principal is responsible for the successful implementation of each student’s Section 504 plan. (X)

Title 1
This is a federally funded program, available in grades K-5 (depending on available funding), which helps students who have problems in reading and language arts. The students work in groups of up to five. Parents are notified if their children qualify for the program. Qualification is determined through teacher recommendation, test scores and attempts to find those students most in need of service. Tests to determine students’ strengths and weaknesses are given upon entry and exit from the program. Quarterly reports are sent home with report cards by the Title 1 teachers, who are certified teachers. The students continue to work in the classroom in these areas.

TELEPHONE USAGE
Students should only use the telephone in emergency situations. Students will be allowed only one phone call home per marking term unless otherwise authorized by the office. When necessary, students should use the telephone located in the main office. Families should finalize plans for the day before students report to school. Teachers will not be called from class for telephone conferences. Messages will be delivered to students and teachers at the earliest possible time.

TEXTBOOKS
All textbooks that are being taken home for homework purposes must be covered. Students are not allowed to write in their books. All books are stamped and numbered. If damage to a textbook occurs, parents will be notified and restitution made.

TRANSFERS AND WITHDRAWALS
The following procedure will be used when transferring or withdrawing students:
1. Parents should notify the school at least five (5) days in advance before transferring or withdrawing a student. Parents must come to the main office or send a written request stating the withdrawal date, new address, and name of the new school, if known.
2. Parents must complete and sign a release of records form with the new school and provide this form to the school secretary.
3. The student must return all textbooks, library books, and other school property.
4. Owed cafeteria money and lost library and textbook fees must be paid.

USE OF SCHOOL FACILITIES
Local, non-profit community groups and organizations may use the school facilities, if available, by filling out the necessary forms that may be obtained at the school office. When using the facilities, local community groups agree to follow established building regulations and procedures and have insurance coverage. Profit-making, private organizations will be required to pay a fee, as specified in the district fee schedules for use of school facilities. The final decision regarding the use of school facilities is determined by the approval of the Superintendent of Schools and the school principal.

VISITORS
Parents, volunteers and other visitors are welcome at school; but in order to minimize classroom interruptions, all visitors and parents are asked to report to the office and sign the visitor’s register when arriving on school grounds. Unless it is an emergency situation, parents are asked not to accompany their child in the hallways or to the classroom upon arrival at school or to pick-up their child at the classroom for dismissal. School office personnel will provide assistance as needed. In visiting classrooms, parents and visitors must realize that the teacher’s first responsibility is to the children and the teacher will be unable to speak at length with the parent or visitor. If a conference is desired, arrangements will be made by the teacher with the parent either before or after school hours. Any unauthorized person on school property will be reported to the principal. The person will be asked to leave. If the person refuses, the police will be called. No pets or other animals, unless authorized by the principal or classroom teacher, will be allowed in the scho