Highcrest School Parent – Student Handbook

WETHERSFIELD PUBLIC SCHOOLS
127 Hartford Avenue
Wethersfield, Connecticut 06109
Michael Emmett
Superintendent of Schools
Highcrest School
Parent – Student Handbook
2015 – 2016
John E. Bean, Principal
95 Highcrest Road
Wethersfield, CT 06109
Phone: 860-571-8380; Fax: 860-563-9193
Wethersfield Public Schools
BOARD OF EDUCATION MEMBERS
Gina P. DeAngelo, Chairperson
Elaine Steinmiller-Paradise, Vice-Chairperson-Secretary
Charles T. Carey
John F. Cascio
Matthew J. Forrest
Jodi M. Latina
Tracey E. McDougall
Polly Moon
John F. Morris
Board of Education meetings are held on the second and fourth
Tuesday of each month. Parents are cordially invited to attend. Agenda
and minutes of the meetings are available at the Board of Education Office,
the Town Library and in each of the school offices.
CENTRAL OFFICE ADMINISTRATION
Michael Emmett, Superintendent of Schools
Sally Dastoli, Director of Curriculum & Instruction
Donald Sierakowski, Interim Director of Human Resources
Emily Daigle, Director of Special Services
Keith Rafaniello, Director of Instructional Technology
Fred Bushey, Director of Maintenance & Operations
TBD, Business Manager
Melissa Cook, Supervisor for Special Education
Darla Miner, Instructional Supervisor for Literacy
Katarzyna Maleszewska, Instructional Supervisor for Mathematics
SCHOOL PRINCIPALS
Thomas Moore, Principal-Wethersfield High School
Diana DeVivo, Assistant Principal-Wethersfield High School
Andy Komar, Assistant Principal-Wethersfield High School
Michael Maltese, Assistant Principal/Athletic Director-Wethersfield High School
Susan Czapla, Principal-Silas Deane Middle School
Cynthia Fries, Assistant Principal-Silas Deane Middle School
Neela Thakur, Principal-Emerson-Williams School
Michael Verderame, Principal-Webb School
John Bean, Principal-Highcrest School
Glenn Horter, Principal-Charles Wright School
Margaret Zacchei, Principal-Alfred W. Hanmer School
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Table of Contents
Mission of Wethersfield Public Schools.................................................................................... 4
Beliefs of the Wethersfield Board of Education ....................................................................... 4
Summary Vision Statement of the Wethersfield Board of Education .................................. 4
Message from the Principal ........................................................................................................ 6
About Our School ........................................................................................................................ 7
Highcrest Calendar of School Events ........................................................................................ 8
Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO).......................................................................................... 8
Child Care ..................................................................................................................................... 9
School Hours................................................................................................................................. 9
Early Dismissals/Late Openings/School Cancellations/Emergency Closings ................. 9
Responsive Classroom .............................................................................................................. 10
District Policies and Procedures .............................................................................................. 11
Asbestos Management .............................................................................................................. 11
Ages of Attendance.................................................................................................................... 12
Attendance .................................................................................................................................. 12
Excuses ........................................................................................................................................ 13
Tardiness ..................................................................................................................................... 14
Truancy ........................................................................................................................................ 15
Bicycles, Roller Blades, Scooters, Footwear with Wheels, Skateboards ............................. 15
Bullying Prevention and Intervention .................................................................................... 16
Child Abuse ................................................................................................................................ 17
Custodial Issues ......................................................................................................................... 18
Discipline Policy ......................................................................................................................... 18
Dress Regulations ...................................................................................................................... 20
Drug and Alcohol Related Incidents ....................................................................................... 21
Scientific Research Based Interventions (SRBI) ..................................................................... 22
Electronic Devices ...................................................................................................................... 22
Internet Acceptable Use Policy ................................................................................................ 24
Student E-mail Guidelines ........................................................................................................ 25
Acceptable Use Agreement: Intranet/Internet ...................................................................... 27
Field Trips ................................................................................................................................... 29
Food and Nutrition .................................................................................................................... 29
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Food Allergy Management Plan and Guidelines .................................................................. 30
Health Services ........................................................................................................................... 34
Preventative Measures for Controlling Pediculosis (Head Lice) ........................................ 36
Homework .................................................................................................................................. 37
Lost and Found .......................................................................................................................... 37
Lost or Damaged Books and Instructional Materials ........................................................... 38
Pest Management Plan .............................................................................................................. 38
Pets ............................................................................................................................................... 38
Progress Reports ........................................................................................................................ 39
Safe School Climate Plan........................................................................................................... 39
Sexual Harassment .................................................................................................................... 41
Smoking ....................................................................................................................................... 41
Special Education Services ....................................................................................................... 41
Student Records ......................................................................................................................... 42
Notification of Rights Under FERPA ...................................................................................... 43
Staff Qualifications..................................................................................................................... 45
Transportation ............................................................................................................................ 46
Visitors ......................................................................................................................................... 49
Volunteers ................................................................................................................................... 49
Complaint Resolution Procedure ............................................................................................ 50
Notification of Rights Under the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (“PPRA”) ..... 54
Student and Parent/Guardian Policy Acknowledgements................................................. 57
School Locations......................................................................................................................... 59
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Mission of Wethersfield Public Schools
Education in Wethersfield is the shared responsibility of schools, students, families and other community
agencies working together so that Wethersfield students may realize their full potential. Accordingly, the
mission of the Wethersfield Public Schools is to ensure that all students will:
 Acquire skills and knowledge for life-long learning, enabling them to compete in a global economy;
 Develop a positive sense of self, enabling them to set high expectations;
 Develop self-discipline and function as responsible citizens of society; and
Develop and understand their ethical, cultural, aesthetic, and intellectual values and respect those of
others.
Beliefs of the Wethersfield Board of Education
The Wethersfield Board of Education believes that:
 All Wethersfield students should be educated in a safe and secure learning environment that
provides appropriate facilities, personnel, and programs;
 The curricula of Wethersfield schools should be designed, implemented, and assessed to enable all
students to realize their full potential;
 While the schools bear the primary responsibility for the formal education of Wethersfield youth, the
family and the community share in that responsibility. To meet the common obligation, the
Wethersfield schools should foster a partnership with the community;
 All educational programs should be operated in a fiscally responsible manner;
 The Wethersfield schools should employ and train personnel who will meet the instructional needs of
students; and
 All educational programs and services should incorporate current practices and contemporary
research, materials, and equipment.
Summary Vision Statement of the Wethersfield Board of Education
The Wethersfield Board of Education has created and adopted a vision for the Wethersfield Public
Schools that focuses on three areas of central importance to us: 1) Outcomes and opportunities for our
students; 2) The overall quality of our school system; and 3) The school system’s relationship with the
Wethersfield community. Our vision in these three areas is best summarized by the following:
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As a result of the outcomes and opportunities they will have experienced in our school system, our
students will value their years in the Wethersfield Public Schools and face their future with
optimism and confidence.
The overall quality of our school system will be recognized for its excellence in the region and the
state.
The school system’s relationship with the Wethersfield community will be as an active partner with
town government and civic organizations in strengthening the quality of life in our community.
1. Outcomes and Opportunities for Students
In the future that we envision, Wethersfield students will:
 Enter kindergarten prepared to participate successfully in the full range of social and educational
activities;
 Achieve foundational literacy in Reading, Writing and Mathematics by the end of grade three;
 Meet the high performance standards of the state’s Mastery Test and CAPT academic achievement
measures, with 90% or more of our students reaching the state goal on these measures;
 Develop an appreciation of music and the arts and choose to participate in these areas in accordance
with their interests, aptitudes and talents;
 Be prepared to make sound lifestyle decisions, including those related to preventive health
maintenance, sound nutrition, and lifelong physical exercise;
 Adopt positive personal values, including care and respect for others, service and contribution to the
community, and a strong achievement and work ethic;
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Remain in school throughout their K-12 experience and be fully prepared to graduate from high
school with their peers;
Be prepared to continue their education at the postsecondary level and/or to enter a viable career
field of their own choosing;
Value their years in the Wethersfield Public Schools and face their future with optimism and
confidence.
2. Overall Quality of Our School System
In the future that we envision, the Wethersfield School System will be characterized by:
 A broad range of curricular, co-curricular, and regional choice opportunities for students, as well as
the provision of student support services, special programs, appropriate learning settings and
sufficient learning resources necessary to address the full continuum of student needs;
 Schools that are actively engaged in a continuous process of school and program improvement;
 A climate in all school and district settings that is characterized by respect, trust, and care; and that is
reflective of positive interpersonal and intergroup relations;
 A student population in each school setting that is representative of the student diversity in the school
system as a whole;
 Safe, secure and well-maintained facilities which provide an environment that is highly conducive to
successful teaching and learning;
 An effective budget development system, with sound fiscal management and audit procedures;
 The strong presence of technology throughout the system, with active and productive use in offices
and classrooms and well-functioning systems of acquisition, maintenance, technical support and
professional development;
 High quality programs of curriculum and instruction which are fully aligned and standardized
throughout the system, with a systematic process for curriculum evaluation and enhancement;
 Valid and reliable assessment systems for students in all key program and curriculum areas, with
active use of assessment information to improve teaching and learning;
 The employment of highly qualified professionals who are provided the training and resources to
help them create a positive learning environment;
 Strong human resource systems and programs in recruitment, induction, supervision, evaluation,
professional development and personnel management;
 Collaborative use of internal expertise and resources to enhance skill development among
practitioners, with cross-district development and sharing of best practices;
 Open and timely communications throughout the district, with effective processes for resolving
conflict and promoting trust;
 A reputation for excellence in the region and the state.
3. The School System’s relationship with the Wethersfield Community
In the future that we envision, our school system’s relationship with the Wethersfield community will
be characterized by:
 Active parental involvement in all of our schools;
 A strong sense of partnership shared by the school system and community;
 Property values in the community that are maintained and enhanced by efforts of the school system to
provide education of the highest quality;
 The community’s belief that the school system has a principle role to play in making Wethersfield an
attractive place to live;
 The residents of our community valuing education highly and being committed to the goals of our
school system;
 Active student involvement in the community to assist in meeting identified community needs;
 Active community involvement in the schools, with successful efforts on the part of the school system
to make community members feel welcome in the schools on an ongoing basis;
 School district involvement in assisting community members in becoming life-long learners;
 The school system as an active partner with town government and civic organizations in
strengthening the quality of life in our community.
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Message from the Principal
Welcome to Highcrest Elementary School
Highcrest Elementary School is a vibrant, high-performing Kindergarten through Grade
Six Elementary school located in a quiet residential Wethersfield neighborhood.
Brilliant views of the Connecticut River Valley frame our front doors. Opened in 1969,
Highcrest is a school of character that actively engages all of the approximately 400
students in the Responsive Classroom model. The hallmark of the “Highcrest Experience”
is that all members of our community – our incredibly committed teachers, staff,
families, and students, see each other as a true “Family” – heavily invested in the
success of our school. We enjoy all the benefits of being part of the Wethersfield Public
School system: a highly trained, enthusiastic staff; an outstanding dedication to the use
of the best curriculum and teaching strategies; an on-going commitment to the arts
across the grade levels; and cutting edge assessments and interventions that promote
the best opportunities for learning for all students across our population. We maintain
high expectations and are committed to creating an environment of mutual respect and
responsibility.
The Highcrest School community also enjoys a strong partnership between home and
school and looks forward to your active participation. Important ways for you to stay
informed about daily happenings at Highcrest during the school year is through our
school website and our School Messenger electronic messaging system which contains
important school information delivered to your email.
For your convenience in locating school and district information regarding programs
and policies, this handbook is combined to include both the Highcrest School Handbook
for Students and Parents and the District Elementary Parent/Student Handbook K-6. I
encourage you to review this handbook as a family. Please do not hesitate to contact
your child’s teacher or me if the information you are seeking is not contained in this
handbook. Warmest regards for a rewarding year as a member of the Highcrest
Elementary School community.
Sincerely,
John E. Bean
Principal
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About Our School
Highcrest Elementary School was established in 1969. It is a school community in which
the teaching/learning process is highly valued. Highcrest students, staff, and parents
work together to maintain a positive and spirit-filled learning environment. The students’
eagerness to learn and perform is promoted by points in the Highcrest Pledge. The
Highcrest Pledge is a reaffirmation of the expectations that staff members and parents
have for all students. The Highcrest Pledge encompasses the mission of the Wethersfield
Public Schools and encourages students to accept a personal commitment to their own
education.
Highcrest Pledge
As a student of Highcrest School I am expected to:
Be Safe
Be Respectful
Be Responsible
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Highcrest Calendar of School Events
Note: This is a proposed Calendar of School Events. For more information, please refer
to our website.
August / September
Kindergarten Visit
Welcome Back Staff Luncheon
First Day of School
Open House / Fall Book Fair
School Pictures
October
Fall Festival
Kindergarten Fire Protection Truck Visit
Parent / Teacher Conferences
November
December
American Education Week
January
Highcrest Spelling Bee (TBD)
Family Pasta Dinner and BINGO Social
February
Father / Daughter Dance
Grade 2 Science Night
March
Parent – Teacher Basketball Game (TBD)
Incoming Kindergarten Parent Orientation
April
Spring Book Fair- Buy One, Get One Free
Celebrity Reader Week
Highcrest Idol
Art Show
May
Spring Concert
Mother / Son Social
Incoming Kindergarten Storytime
DARE Graduation (Grade 5)
Jog-A-Thon
Field Days
School Fair/Bulldog Bash
Step Up Ceremony (Grade 6)
June
Winter Concert
Jingle Bell Run
Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO)
Parents have made, and continue to make, tremendous contributions to the educational
programs at Highcrest. The keystone of parent involvement in the school is the
Highcrest Parent-Teacher Organization. Countless hours are devoted to school-wide
projects that benefit our students and community at large. The PTO's financial support
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enriches the curriculum with educational and cultural programs. Highcrest PTO
meetings are generally held the second Thursday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in the
Media Center.
Child Care
The YMCA South Regional Branch provides a before and after-school child care program
for elementary school children in Wethersfield. For more information, call the YMCA at
563-0604. Other child care providers in the Wethersfield area include, but are not limited
to, Kidco, KinderCare, Super Club, and Stork Club. A complete listing of child care
agencies is available in the yellow pages of the local telephone directory.
School Hours
Elementary students should arrive at school no more than 20 minutes prior to the start
of school. Children are dismissed at the end of the school day either as a walker or
rider on a bus or private day care van in accordance with instructions on record in the
schools. If your child is being dismissed in any way other than the usual manner that is
on record with the school, please send a note to your child’s teacher indicating the
change in dismissal procedure. See the charts below for the general daily schedule with
early dismissal times for elementary schools.
Early Dismissals/Late Openings/School Cancellations/Emergency
Closings
On occasion it is necessary to dismiss school after the school day has begun, open late,
or cancel school due to inclement weather or other emergencies. In such cases
announcements are made on the local radio and television stations. In addition,
information regarding early dismissal is available by accessing the district website at
www.wethersfield.me.
Parents need to make prior arrangements for their children in the event of an early
dismissal due to weather conditions or other emergencies, such as loss of electrical
power. Each school requires an emergency dismissal plan on file in the Main Office.
Please be sure to update the plan as needed. Please also be sure that your child is aware
of these alternative plans and that the emergency information on file in the school is
current with names, addresses and telephone numbers of alternative care providers.
With your cooperation and understanding, we will be able to ensure the best
supervision and care for your children.
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REGULAR SCHOOL HOURS
MIN SCHOOL DAY/EARLY DISMISSAL HOURS
PRE-K
AM
PRE-K
PM
GR K-6
WEBB
(M-TH)
WEBB
(M-TH)
CW/EW
9:10 AM
11:40 AM
12:25 PM
2:55 PM
8:30 AM
2:45 PM
GR K-6
HC/HN/WEBB
8:55 AM
3:10 PM
SDMS
8:00 AM
2:20 PM
WHS
7:40 AM
2:00 PM
PRE-K
WEBB
90 MIN
DELAY
(NO AM
CLASS)
8:30 AM
8:55 AM
EARLY
DISMISSAL
(NO PM
CLASS)
12:55 PM
1:20 PM
GR K-6
GR K-6
CW/EW
HC/HN/WEBB
SDMS
WHS
8:00 AM
7:40 AM
12:33 PM
12:12 PM
CREC SOUNDBRIDGE
WILL NOTIFY PARENTS
RADIO STATIONS:
1080 AM
WTIC
96.5 FM
910 AM
WNEZ/WRCH
100.5 FM
1360 AM
WDRC
102.9 FM
TELEVISION STATIONS:
CHANNEL 3 WFSB
CHANNEL 30 WVIT
CHANNEL 8 WTNH
SCHOOL MESSENGER: SCHOOL CANCELLATION ANNOUNCEMENT
All parents and visitors to the school must sign into the main office and obtain visitors
badges/stickers.
Responsive Classroom
“The Responsive classroom is a curriculum structure that combines the teaching of
social and academic skills in a manner that is respectful of children’s developmental
needs and that helps create a climate conducive to purposeful work, creativity, and
cooperation.”
Guiding Principles
 The social curriculum is as important as the academic curriculum.
 How children learn is as important as what they learn: process and content go
hand in hand.
 The greatest cognitive growth occurs through social interaction.
 There is a set of social skills children need in order to be successful academically
and socially: cooperation, assertion, responsibility, empathy, and self-control
 Knowing the children we teach – individually, culturally, and developmentally –
is as important as knowing the content we teach.
 Knowing the families of the children we teach and inviting their participation is
essential to children’s education.
 How the adults at school work together is as important as individual
competence.
Teaching Practices
 Morning Meeting: A daily routine that builds community, creates a positive
climate for learning, and reinforces academic and social skills.
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Rules and Logical Consequences: A clear and consistent approach to discipline
that fosters responsibility and self-control.
Guided Discovery: A format for introducing materials that encourages inquiry,
heightens interest, and teaches care of the school environment.
Academic Choice: An approach to giving children choices in their learning that
helps them become invested, self-motivated learners.
Classroom Organization: Strategies for arranging materials, furniture, and
displays to encourage independence, promote caring, and maximize learning.
Family Communication Strategies: Ideas for involving families as true partners
in their children’s education.
Discipline in the Responsive Classroom
 Discipline is both proactive and reactive: Proactively, we work with children to
create, teach, and practice classroom rules. Reactively, we use logical
consequences to help children regain control, make amends, and get back on
track when they forget or choose not to take care of themselves or others.
Information taken from http://www.responsiveclassroom.com
District Policies and Procedures
Asbestos Management
The Board of Education, in compliance with federal law, has developed an asbestos
management plan, concerning the presence or suspected presence of asbestos-type
materials within district school buildings, and required inspections and preventive
measures related thereto. In accordance with federal law, members of the public,
including parents, teachers and other employees, shall be permitted access to the
asbestos management plan of the Wethersfield Board of Education.
Upon request, the district shall permit members of the public, including parents,
teachers and other employees, to inspect any asbestos management plan. The district
shall grant access to such management plans within a reasonable period of time after a
request from a member of the public is received.
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Ages of Attendance
In accordance with Connecticut General Statute 10-186, the Board of Education shall
provide education for all persons five years of age and older, having attained age five
on or before the first day of January of any school year, and under twenty-one years of
age who is not a graduate of a high school or vocational school, except as provided in
Connecticut General Statutes 10-233c and 10-233d. Additionally, according to
Connecticut General Statute 10-76d (b2), special education will be provided for children
who have attained the age of three and who have been identified as being in need of
special education, and whose educational potential will be irreparably diminished
without special education.
Parents and those who have the control of children five years of age and over and under
eighteen years of age, are obligated by Connecticut law to require their children to
attend public day school or its equivalent in the district in which such child resides,
unless such child is a high school graduate or the parent or person having control of
such child is able to show that the child is elsewhere receiving equivalent instruction in
the studies taught in the public schools. The parent or person having control of a child
sixteen or seventeen years of age must consent to such child’s withdrawal from school.
For the school year commencing July 1, 2011 and each school year thereafter, the parent
or person having control of a child seventeen years of age may consent to such child’s
withdrawal from school. The parent or person shall exercise this option by personally
appearing at the school district office to sign a withdrawal form. Such withdrawal form
shall include an attestation from a guidance counselor or school administrator of the
school that this district has provided the parent or person with information on the
educational opportunities options available in the school system and in the community.
The parent or person having control of a child five years of age shall have the option of
not sending the child to school until the child is six years of age. The parent or person
having control of a child six years of age shall have the option of not sending the child
to school until the child is seven years of age. The parent or person shall exercise such
option by personally appearing at the school district office and signing an option form.
The district shall provide the parent or person with information on the educational
opportunities available in the school system.
Attendance
Regular attendance is essential for an effective school experience and necessary for
annual promotion. The opportunity for human interaction and experience within the
classroom which results in learning cannot be regained when a student is absent.
Responsibility for assuring that students attend school rests by statute with the parent
or guardian. Students must strive to maintain good attendance which must be
encouraged by the parents and/or guardian.
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A student is considered to be “in attendance” if present at his/her assigned school, or an
activity sponsored by the school (e.g., field trip), for at least half of the regular school day.
A student who is serving an out-of-school suspension or expulsion should always be
considered absent. A student not meeting the definition of “in attendance” shall be
considered absent.
Classroom learning experiences are the basis for public school education. Time lost from
class is lost instructional opportunity. The Board of Education requires that accurate
records be kept of the attendance of each child, and students should not be absent from
school without parental knowledge and consent.
Parents are required to report a child’s absence and the reason for the absence in
writing. Please call the school office as early as possible. Prior to school opening,
messages can be left on the office voice mail. If you do not call in, one of the secretaries
is required to call you at home or work to verify your child’s absence. We depend on
your cooperation with these attendance procedures so that we can ensure the safety of
your child.
When children return to school after an absence, they need to bring in a note written
by their parent or guardian explaining the reason for the absence. If children are to be
absent for more than two days, parents should contact their teacher(s) or the school
secretary to arrange for work to be picked up. This work will be made available at the
end of that school day.
Excuses
A student’s absence from school shall be considered “excused” if written documentation
of the reason for such absence has been submitted within ten (10) school days of the
student’s return to school and meets the following criteria:
A. For absences one through nine, a student’s absences from school are considered
“excused” when the student’s parent/guardian approves such absence and
submits appropriate documentation to school officials.
Such documentation includes a signed note from the student’s
parent/guardian, a signed note from a school official that spoke in person
with the parent/guardian regarding the absence, or a note confirming the
absence by the school nurse or by a licensed medical professional, as
appropriate. Documentation should explain the nature of and the reason for
the absence as well as the length of the absence. Separate documentation must
be submitted for each
incidence of absenteeism.
B. For the tenth absence and all absences thereafter, a student’s absences from school
are considered excused for the following reasons:
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1. Student illness (must be verified by a licensed medical professional to be
deemed excused, regardless of the length of the absence);
2. Student’s observance of a religious holiday;
3. Death in the student’s family or other emergency beyond the control of the
student’s family;
4. Mandated court appearances (documentation required);
5. The lack of transportation that is normally provided by a district other than the
one the student attends (no parental documentation required);
6. Extraordinary educational opportunities pre-approved by District
administration and to be in accordance with Connecticut State Department of
Education guidance.
C. A student’s absence from school shall be considered unexcused unless:
1. The absence meets the definition of an excused absence and meets the
documentation requirements; or
2. The absence meets the definition of a disciplinary absence, which is the result of
school or District disciplinary action and are excluded from these State Board of
Education approved definitions.
When the school in which a child is enrolled receives no notification from a parent or other
person having control of the child is aware of the child’s absence, a reasonable effort shall
be made by school personnel or volunteers under the direction of school personnel to
notify by telephone and by mail such parent or other person having control of the child.
The required mailed notice shall include a warning that two unexcused absences from
school in one month or five unexcused absences in a school year may result in a complaint
filed with the Superior Court alleging the belief that the acts or omissions of the child are
such that the child’s family is a family with service needs. The law states that parents of
students in Kindergarten through eighth grade must receive this warning in writing.
Responsibility for completion of missed classwork lies with the student, not the teacher.
Unless a student has an extended illness, all make-up work will be complete within five
days after the student returns to school.
Tardiness
It is also important that students arrive at school on time. When children arrive late to
school, they must be brought into the office by an adult. This will allow us to record their
attendance and the reason they are late to school. A letter will be sent home when a
student is tardy more than six (6) times. Parents/Guardians may also be asked to attend a
meeting at school to discuss this issue.
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Truancy
The district’s policy on student truancy shall stress early prevention and inquiry leading to
remediation of absences rather than imposition of punitive measures for students. Referral
to legal authorities normally shall be made only when local resources are exhausted. For
purposes of implementing this policy and for reporting purposes regarding truancy, the
District will utilize the State Board of Education approved definitions of “excused” and
“unexcused” absences.
“Truant” shall mean a student age five to eighteen, inclusive, who has four unexcused
absences in any one month, or ten unexcused absences in one school year.
“In attendance” shall mean a student if present at his/her assigned school, or an activity
sponsored by the school (e.g., field trip), for at least half of the regular school day. A
student who is serving an out-of-school suspension or expulsion should always be
considered absent.
The school will make a reasonable effort by telephone and by mail to notify parents or
other persons having control of the child when a child does not arrive at school and there
has been no previously approval or other indication which indicates parents are aware of
the absence if a child meets the definition of truant, as described above, then:
1. Appropriate school staff will meet with parents of a child identified as truant, to
review and evaluate the situation, within ten days of such designation. (attendance
meeting)
2. Appropriate school staff will file a written complaint with the Superior Court, not
later than fifteen calendar days after the failure of a parent/guardian to attend the
meeting or upon the failure to cooperate with the school attempting to solve the
truancy problem, alleging that the acts or omissions of a child identified as "truant"
are such that the student’s family is a “family with service needs”, if the parent or
other person having control of the child fails to attend the required meeting with
appropriate school personnel to evaluate why the child is truant or fails to
cooperate with the school in trying to solve the child's truancy problem.
3. When a petition is filed, a referral will be made to the Planning and Placement
Team (PPT) to determine if an educational evaluation is appropriate.
For more information on attendance, please refer to the Board of Education Policy 5000
which can be found on the district website.
Bicycles, Roller Blades, Scooters, Footwear with Wheels, Skateboards
Only students in third grade and above are allowed to ride bicycles to school.
Moreover, students who ride their bicycles to school MUST wear bicycle helmets.
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Independently, children under the age of 12 years old are required by law to use
protective headgear when riding a bicycle on roads or streets. If children do not follow
these safety procedures, the privilege of riding a bike to school may be denied.
Students in K-2 riding their bikes to school must be accompanied by an adult at all
times. If children walk or ride bicycles to school, they must use available sidewalks.
Those riding bicycles must give way to pedestrians. While on school grounds, children
are required to walk their bicycles rather than ride them. Bike locks must be used to
secure them to bike racks provided on school grounds.
Students are NOT permitted to use roller blades, scooters, footwear with wheels or
skateboards as a means of transportation to or from school or on school grounds.
Bullying Prevention and Intervention
The Wethersfield Board of Education promotes a secure and happy school climate,
conducive to teaching and learning that is free from threat, harassment and any type of
bullying behavior. Therefore it shall be the policy of the Board that bullying of a
student by another student is prohibited.
The Board believes that a school environment in which students feel safe, supported,
engaged and helpfully challenged is optimal for learning and healthy development. The
Board seeks an environment in which students and adults feel socially, emotionally,
intellectually and physically safe; an environment that is free of harassment,
intimidation and bullying.
“Bullying” means the repeated use by one or more students of a written, oral or
electronic communication, such as cyberbullying, directed at or referring to another
student attending school in the same school district or a physical act or gesture by one
or more students repeatedly directed at another student attending school in the same
school district that:
A.
causes physical or emotional harm to such student or damage to such
student’s property,
B.
places such student in reasonable fear of harm to himself or herself, or of
damage to his or her property,
C.
creates a hostile environment at school for such student,
D.
infringes on the rights of such student at school, or
E.
substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of a
school.
Bullying shall include, but not be limited to, a written, oral, or electronic
communication or physical act or gesture based on any actual or perceived
differentiating characteristic, such as race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin,
gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, socioeconomic status,
academic status, physical appearance, or mental, physical, developmental or sensory
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disability, or by association with an individual or group who has or is perceived to have
one or more of such characteristics. (The student against whom the activity is directed must
be attending school in the same district as the students engaged in the activity.)
Students who engage in any act of bullying, on school grounds, at a school-sponsored
or school-related activity, function or program whether on or off school grounds, at a
school bus stop, on a school bus or other vehicle owned, leased or used by the Board of
Education, or through the use of an electronic device or an electronic mobile device
owned, leased or used by the Board of Education, and outside of the school setting if
such bullying:
1.
2.
3.
creates a hostile environment at school for the victim,
infringes on the rights of the victim at school, or
substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of a
school,
are subject to appropriate disciplinary action up to and including suspension, expulsion
and/or referral to law enforcement officials.
A comprehensive program, to improve the school climate, involving everyone in the
schools and the community, to address bullying at all school levels is essential to
reducing incidences of bullying. Such a program must involve interventions at all
levels, school wide, classroom and individual (see Board Policy 5131.911 for the
district’s full Safe School Climate Plan).
The Board expects prompt and reasonable investigations of alleged acts of bullying and
teen dating violence. The safe school climate specialist of each school is responsible for
handling all complaints of alleged bullying and teen dating violence. The safe climate
specialist shall investigate or supervise the investigation of all reports of bullying and
teen dating violence promptly.
For the Board of Education’s full Bully Prevention and Intervention Policy please
refer to the district website, http://www.wethersfield.k12.ct.us
Board of Education Policy number 5131.911.
Child Abuse
Any school employee, including teachers, administrators, and all non-certified and all
certified staff are mandated by law to report suspected abuse and neglect to DCF (the
Department of Children and Family Services). School staff also works cooperatively
with law enforcement officials, courts, and all appropriate state agencies in the
prevention, identification, and treatment of children who are abused or neglected.
Specific procedures governing the reporting of suspected abuse and neglect are in effect
and staff receives training yearly in their use.
Reporting of suspected child abuse and neglect is a responsibility which is taken
seriously. If there is any doubt about reporting a situation, it is resolved in favor of the
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child and a report is made. The school continues to work with the parents and other
agencies in all cases.
Custodial Issues
If there are custodial issues with a judgment rendered by the court, please provide a
copy of the court decision to the school on a yearly basis or when changes are ordered
by the court so that we may adhere to the court’s decision.
Please be sure that the school has current information regarding these matters. For the
protection of all concerned, it is imperative that we have updated information related to
the custody of children of separated or divorced parents. If the parents of such children
do not share joint custody, the building principal must receive a copy of the court order
which designates which parent has been awarded custody if there are visitation
restrictions. In the absence of this information, we can only assume joint custody, and
thereby cannot restrict parental release or visitation.
This information will be kept confidential and shared only with staff members who
need to have that information to ensure that the order is upheld. The above-mentioned
requests are made in order that we can fulfill our responsibility to you to ensure, to the
best of our ability, the safety of your children while at school. We appreciate your
cooperation in this matter.
Discipline Policy
It is the goal of the Wethersfield Board of Education to ensure the safety and welfare of
all students in attendance, and to maintain an atmosphere conducive to learning. In
keeping with this goal, students are expected to comply with school rules and
regulations, as well as Board policies. Students may be disciplined for conduct on
school grounds or at any school-sponsored activity that endangers persons or property,
is seriously disruptive of the educational process, or that violates a publicized policy of
the Board. Students may be disciplined for conduct off school grounds if such conduct
is seriously disruptive of the educational process and violates a publicized policy of the
Board.
Conduct on school grounds that may lead to disciplinary action (including but not
limited to suspension and/or expulsion) includes, but is not limited to, when a student:
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Causes or attempts to cause physical or emotional injury to another person
Possesses, uses, transports or disseminates any kind of weapon or weapon
facsimile including but not limited to a deadly weapon, dangerous instrument,
martial arts weapon, chemical weapon, or electronic weapon (i.e.- stun gun,
pepper spray)
Causes or attempts to cause damage to or to steal real, personal or school
property
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Possesses, uses, distributes, sells, transmits or is under the influence of
dangerous drugs, narcotics, alcoholic beverages or intoxicants of any kind
Possesses paraphernalia used or designed to be used in the consumption, sale or
distribution of dangerous drugs or narcotics, as defined in subparagraph
Possesses or uses a cellular telephone or a remotely activated paging device
without permission of the Principal, or his/her designated representative
Uses or copies the academic work of another student and presents it as his/her
own
Defies the authority of teachers, supervisors, administrators or other school staff
Uses profane, abusive or obscene language or gestures.
Violates the accepted standard of dress and appearance as prescribed in school
regulations
Smokes in violation of school regulations
Is tardy or truant
Blackmails, threatens, or intimidates school staff or another student
Refuses to obey a member of the school staff
Enters unauthorized into any school facility or portion of a school facility or aids
or abets another in an unauthorized entry
Makes false “bomb threat” call(s) to the public schools or the police
Accumulates minor offenses such as school and class tardiness, class or study
hall cutting, or failure to attend detention
Throws snowballs, rocks, sticks, or similar objects
Repeatedly or intentionally violates student transportation rules
Leaves school grounds, school transportation or a school-sponsored activity
without authorization
Uses without proper authorization any school computer, computer system,
computer software, Internet connection or similar school property or system, or
uses such property or system for unauthorized or non-school related purposes
Acts in a manner prohibited by federal or state law that would indicate that the
student presents a danger to any person in the school community or on school
property
Commits any other act that is considered by the Principal or his/her designated
Representative to interfere with the management of the school or disrupt the
educational process
Possesses a laser pointer in school or on school grounds.
Conduct off school grounds that may be disciplined include behavior that seriously
disrupts the educational process and violates a publicized policy of the Board. In
making a determination as to whether such conduct is seriously disruptive of the
educational process, the Administration and the Board of Education may consider, but
such consideration shall not be limited to, the following factors: (1) whether the
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incident occurred within close proximity of a school; (2) whether students from the
school were involved or whether there was any gang involvement; (3) whether the
conduct involved violence, threats of violence, or the unlawful use of a weapon, as
defined in Section 29-38 of the Connecticut General Statutes, and whether any injuries
occurred; and (4) whether the conduct involved the use of alcohol.
In making a determination as to whether such conduct is seriously disruptive of the
educational process, the Administration and/or the Board of Education may also
consider whether such off-campus conduct involved the use of drugs.
For details regarding Disciplinary Procedures, In-School Suspensions, Suspensions,
Expulsions, Alternative Education opportunities, Procedures for Students with
Disabilities, please refer to the Board of Education Policy 5114 which can be found on
the district website or in the Board of Education Policy Handbook in the office of
each school.
Dress Regulations
The purpose of student dress regulations is to foster a healthy, safe, and productive
learning environment. The school recognizes that students have the right not to be
distracted from learning by an article of clothing. Students should be aware that their
choice of clothes will have an effect on how they are perceived in school as well as how
the school is perceived in the community.
Student dress must meet the following standards:
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For health and safety reasons, shoes must be worn at all times; wearing of flipflop type shoes is strongly discouraged.
Shorts which are generally appropriate in most public places will be acceptable
in school.
All shirts, tops and blouses must provide adequate coverage; reach the waistline
and no midriff is to be exposed. Beachwear is not permitted in school.
Undergarments must be appropriately covered at all times.
Attire or accessories that depict logos or emblems that represent drugs, tobacco,
or alcohol are not allowed.
Attire that conveys a message which is vulgar or hateful or promotes illegal
discrimination is prohibited.
No gang symbol of any type may be worn or displayed on school premises
(“gang”: any group of two or more persons whose purpose includes the
commission of illegal acts).
Attire or accessories that are in violation of the school district’s sexual
harassment policy are not allowed.
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The wearing of hats is not allowed in the building on days when school is in
session.
Parents are encouraged to monitor their children’s school attire in light of these dress
regulations. If student dress does not conform to the above guidelines or otherwise
disrupts the educational process, students may be sent home to change and return to
school. Repeated violations may result in disciplinary action.
Drug and Alcohol Related Incidents
In conjunction with its curriculum efforts in the comprehensive K-12 health and
wellness program, administration and staff of all schools work to prevent student use of
drugs and alcohol, and to take action when the use by students is discovered. This is
always done in cooperation with the students’ parents or guardians.
Recognizing that substance abuse or distribution of drugs and/or paraphernalia and/or
alcohol may be indicative of serious, underlying problems; every effort will be made to
offer a student help and assistance. This includes early identification, referral for
treatment, and aftercare support. Disciplinary procedures will be administered with
the best interests of the student, school population, and community in mind and with
due consideration of the rights of students. However, consideration will also be given
to the fact that violators of this procedure are also breaking the law.
Students will be encouraged to consult with teachers, administrators, and other
professional staff on substance abuse problems. A staff member who is contacted by a
student regarding his/her drug or alcohol problem may elect to keep that information
confidential and not disclose it to any other persons in accordance with state law.
However, the student will be encouraged at the earliest appropriate time to seek help
from his/her parents or guardians. In such cases, the decision to involve the parents or
guardians will be arrived at jointly by the student and educator unless, in the judgment
of the educator, the mental or physical health of the student is immediately and
dangerously threatened by drug/alcohol use. If such danger is imminent, the
parents/guardians and health officials will be notified so that appropriate medical
action can be taken.
Other drug and alcohol-related information obtained by staff members will be shared
with the appropriate building administrator. While the administrator and educator
shall encourage the student to seek help from his/her parents or guardians, they will
notify parents or guardians as they judge to be appropriate, whether or not the
student’s agreement is obtained.
Disciplinary consequences for use of alcohol or drugs on school property and/or at any
Board of Education sponsored activity are strictly enforced for all students at all
schools. These may involve suspension from school and/or expulsion.
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Scientific Research Based Interventions (SRBI)
Over the last several years, two federal laws, the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act of
2001 and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA) of 2004
and 2006, have focused on ensuring academic growth and achievement for all students.
In accordance with these mandates, state law now requires schools to use Response to
Intervention (RTI), or Scientific Research-Based Interventions (SRBI) as it is called in
Connecticut to improve learning for all students, including those performing above and
below grade level expectations in the content areas of reading and mathematics.
Through the SRBI process, schools create and implement interventions through “tiers”
of increasingly intensive support. Tier 1 support includes comprehensive,
differentiated instruction in the regular classroom. Students receiving Tier 2 support
may benefit from individual or small group instruction and increased progress
monitoring. In Tier 3, students receive more intensive individual or small group
support on carefully measured target areas of need. When a student demonstrates the
need for additional support, the teacher works with a team of educators to carefully
identify the appropriate instructional or behavioral intervention. The law requires
schools to provide targeted, research-based interventions and carefully monitor
students’ progress over an extended period of time before considering a referral to
special education.
SRBI takes a team approach to identifying and addressing students’ academic and
behavioral needs through early intervention. Teachers will notify parents if their child
is involved in the SRBI process and maintain regular communication about the
student’s progress. Parents play a critical role in supporting their child’s education and
are encouraged to contact their child’s teacher with any concerns. For more information
about SRBI, parents may contact the school principal or access the CT State Department
of Education at http://sde.ct.gov .
Electronic Devices
It is the policy of the Wethersfield Board of Education to permit access by students
using privately-owned electronic devices to the District’s computers, District issued
personal data devices (including Smartphones, Blackberries, PDAs, other mobile or
handheld devices) and instructional technologies; communications and data
management systems; informational technologies and the Internet; and a variety of
other technology resources (collectively the “District technology resources”) in order to
promote educational excellence. While the District intends to permit such broad access,
the District’s technology resources have not been established as a public access service
or as a public forum. Additionally, it is the expectation of the Board of Education that
students who access these resources while using personal electronic devices will act at
all times in responsible and ethical ways which are fully in accord with computer use,
acceptable use, ethics code and other applicable policies and with all local, state, and
federal laws.
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The District will work together with the parents or guardians of students to educate
students about the District’s expectation that all students will act responsibly and
ethically when accessing and using District technology resources, including times when
access is achieved through the use of personal technology. With students able to access
the District’s technology resources not only from District computers, but also from
privately-owned electronic devices, it is important for each student to have the
opportunity to learn about his/her rights, responsibilities, and duties when using
Personal electronic devices to access District technology resources. Through the
dissemination of the Student Handbook, the explanation and signing of the [computer
use policy] and its regulations, and through curricular efforts, the District will inform
students of the applicable expectations regarding access to the District’s technology
resources when using personal electronic devices on or near school property, at home,
in school vehicles and busses, or at school-sponsored activities.
The District’s technology resources shall only be used to access educational information
and to promote learning activities both at home and at school. The District considers
access to its technology resources to be a privilege and not a right. Students are
expected to make responsible and ethical decisions at all times when using the District’s
technology resources. Failure to do so will result in the consequences fully outlined in
the applicable technology and discipline policies.
Definitions
District Technology Resources
For the purposes of this policy, “District Technology Resources” refers to District’s
computers, District issued personal data devices (including Smartphones, Blackberries,
PDAs, Smartphones, other mobile or handheld devices) and instructional technologies;
communications and data management systems; informational technologies and the
Internet; and a variety of other technology resources in order to promote educational
excellence.
Personal Technology
For the purposes of this policy, “personal technology” refers to privately owned
wireless and/or portable electronic hand-held equipment that can be used for word
processing, wireless Internet access, image capture and recording, sound recording,
information transmitting and/or receiving, storing, etc. These devices may include, but
are not limited to, personal laptops, Smartphones, network access devices, and other
electronic signaling devices.
Personal Technology Security
Responsibility for keeping personal technology secure rests with the individual owner.
If personal technology is stolen, lost, or damaged, it will be handled through the
administrative office similar to how other stolen or damaged personal artifacts are
handled. Students and parents should be aware that the District is not liable for any
personal technology that is stolen, lost, or damaged. Students should not share their
personal technology with other students at any time.
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District Technology Resources/Damages
Virtual or physical vandalism shall not be tolerated. Any intentional act by a user of the
District's technology resources that damages, or interferes with the performance of
District hardware, software, operating systems, or communication and data
management systems will be considered vandalism and will be subject to discipline
and/or appropriate criminal or civil action.
Protocols for Using Personal Technology
Students must abide by all specific protocols outlined in this policy and all other
technology policies and applicable regulations. Students will be given specific
information for log-on and access procedures using school accounts. No user may
deviate from these log-on/access procedures. Students are advised that the District’s
network administrators have the capability to identify users and to monitor all
personal technology while they are logged on to the network. Users must understand
that the District has reserved the right to conduct monitoring of District technology
resources and can do so despite the assignment to individual users of passwords for
system security. Any password systems implemented by the District are designed
solely to provide system security from unauthorized users, not to provide privacy to the
individual system user. The system's security aspects, message delete function and
personal passwords can be bypassed for monitoring purposes. Therefore, users must be
aware that they should not have any expectation of personal privacy in the use of
personal technology to access District technology resources. This provision applies to
any and all uses of the District’s technology resources and District or personal electronic
devices that access same.
Disciplinary Action
Misuse of the District’s technology resources and/or the use of personal technology to
access or utilize the District’s technology resources in an inappropriate manner will not
be tolerated and will result in disciplinary action.
Misuse may result in loss of access privileges, a prohibition on the use and/or
possession of personal technology on school property, and/or suspension or expulsion
in accordance with the Board’s policies related to student discipline.
Internet Acceptable Use Policy
Internet access is available to students and teachers in the Wethersfield Public Schools.
The Wethersfield Board of Education’s goal in providing this service to teachers and
students is to promote educational excellence in schools by facilitating resource sharing,
innovation, and communication.
With the access to computers and people all over the world comes the responsibility to
use this resource responsibly. Wethersfield Public Schools has installed “filter”
software to restrict access to controversial materials. In addition, the Board has adopted
a set of guidelines that provides parents and students with clear guidelines for
responsible use of electronic resources. Parents and students are required to sign the
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“Acceptable Use Agreement” and “Student E-mail Guidelines” prior to using these
tools in school.
For more information regarding the Internet Acceptable Use Policy, please refer to
the Board of Education Policy 6141 which can be found on the district website.
Student E-mail Guidelines
The Wethersfield Public Schools ("District") provides electronic resources for students in
grades 2-12, including Gmail accounts to be used to access the District's Google Apps,
which is an integral part of the curriculum. The District's expectations for behavior and
language in the use of these Gmail accounts must be consistent with classroom standards.
The guidelines listed below are intended to govern the use of District-provided Gmail
account and Google Apps whether the account is accessed in or outside of the school
environment or on school-owned, public, or personal computers.
Proper Use of District-provided Gmail
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Students should use their E-mail accounts to communicate with their
classmates, teachers, or other school community members about school
related topics only.
While students can E-mail teachers throughout the District, they should not expect
teachers to E-mail assignments to them or to provide private tutoring through Email.
Students should not ask for or respond to E-mails requesting personal information
not related to a school project.
Parents should not use their children's accounts as a way of communicating to
their children's classmates, teachers, or other members of the school
community.
Account Capabilities
 All accounts will be accessible from both inside and outside the school network. All
accounts will be password protected.
 All accounts will be “open” accounts, meaning that students can E-mail
students and staff members within the district and may also send and receive
E-mails from individuals outside the system.
 As the accounts will be “open,” all students will have the option of forwarding
school E-mails to a personal account of his/her choice. It is the student’s
responsibility to maintain any personal accounts and/or passwords. It is also
the student’s responsibility to update the forwarding address if the student
changes his/her personal account provider. Once a student forwards E-mail
from his/her district account, the District is not responsible or liable for misuse
of information, loss of confidentiality or loss of other information.
 The ability of the Wethersfield Public Schools to protect privacy does not
extend outside of District-provided accounts. Therefore, parents agree that the
District is not liable for any threatening, defamatory, obscene, offensive or
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illegal content received from any other party, nor is it liable for any
infringement of another’s rights that may occur
The District has no ability to retrieve or recover E-mail once it is forwarded
outside of the District’s network.
If a student chooses to respond directly from his/her personal account, the
District is not able to, nor is it responsible for, archiving the forwarded E-mail.
The District is also not responsible for protecting the privacy of the student’s
personal E-mail address.
These accounts are provided as is, with size limits, attachment limits, and uniform
features. The District reserves the right, at its discretion, to update the software or
add additional features.
All incoming E-mail will be filtered for spam using a commercial spam filter. While
the District has installed filtering software for all E-mail accounts, no filtering
software is foolproof. There remains the possibility, however slim, that despite
these safeguards, a student may access material that parents and/or District
officials might find inappropriate.
As the owner of the computer systems, the District reserves the right to monitor its
computer systems to ensure that they are being used in accordance with the
Acceptable Use Policy and related Administrative Regulations.
The Superintendent reserves the right to terminate any individual's use of the District's
computer systems. Misuse of the computer systems resulting in violations of these
guidelines will be treated in accordance with existing Board of Education policies,
including student discipline policies.
Students must understand that the District has reserved the right to conduct monitoring of
these computer systems and can do so despite the assignment of passwords to individual
students for system security. Any password systems implemented by the District are
designed solely to provide system security from unauthorized users, not to provide privacy
to the individual system user.
Student Responsibilities
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Students are entirely responsible for the confidentiality of their E-mail accounts,
passwords, personal information, and for any activities that occur in the use of
their accounts.
Students should have no expectation of privacy when using district-provided Email accounts.
The student agrees to notify his/her teacher or principal immediately if any
unauthorized use is made of his/her District-provided E-mail account.
The student agrees to report immediately to his/her teacher or
principal the receipt of any unwanted or inappropriate E-mails from
Wethersfield School District employees
Most importantly, the District urges any student who receives any harassing,
threatening, intimidating, or other improper message through the computer
systems to report it immediately. It is the District's policy that no student should
be required to tolerate such treatment, regardless of the identity of the sender of
the message.
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Please report these events!
While E-mailing, students are responsible for following all parts of the District
Acceptable Use Agreement.
Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA)
 The Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) requires parental
permission whenever a website or application collects personally identifiable
information from children under age 13.
 By participating in Google Apps for Education, student information may be
collected and stored electronically and shared with the District.
 The District’s use of student information is for educational purposes only.
 For more information on COPPA compliance, see the Federal Trade
Commission’s website at www.ftc.gov/coppa.
 The privacy policies associated with use of Google Apps for Education are
available at
https://www.google.com/enterprise/apps/education/benefits.html.
Acceptable Use Agreement: Intranet/Internet
I understand that the Wethersfield Public Schools provide electronic resources, including
Internet access and storage space for students’ work, as an integral part of the curriculum.
Behavior and language in the use of these resources should be consistent with classroom
standards. I understand the following and have read through and discussed the following
with my child:
1. Students must use the electronic resources, including storage space, only for educational
purposes related to work in the Wethersfield schools, and not for any personal,
commercial or illegal purposes.
2. Students will use the Internet only with the permission of the staff member in charge.
3. Students will not use games or other electronic resources that have objectionable
content or that engage me in an inappropriate simulated activity.
4. Students will not give their passwords to any other user, nor attempt to learn or to use
anyone else’s password.
5. Students will not upload, link, or embed their own image or images of others to nonsecured, public sites without the permission of the teacher and a signed parental
permission slip.
6. Students will not use the likeness of another person or make statements through website
postings, email, instant messages, etc., that harass, intimidate, threaten, insult, libel or
ridicule students, teachers, administrators or other staff members of the school
community, make statements that are falsely attributed to others, or use language that
is obscene. Students will not impersonate another individual online in any forum.
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7. Students will not attempt to access, upload, or transmit material that attacks ethnic,
religious or racial groups, or material that is pornographic, violent, or explicitly sexual
in nature.
8. Students will not violate copyright laws, damage or tamper with hardware or software,
vandalize or destroy data, intrude upon, alter or destroy the files of another user,
introduce or use computer “viruses,” attempt to gain access to restricted information or
networks, or block, intercept or interfere with any email or electronic communications
by teachers and administrators to parents, or others.
9. Students will report any problems to the supervising staff member.
10. Student use of the school system’s computers is not private, and the district reserves the
right to monitor use to assure compliance with these guidelines. Violations may lead to
revocation of computer access and/or other disciplinary measures.
11. The prohibited conduct described above is also prohibited off campus when using
private equipment if it has the effect of seriously interfering with the educational
process, and such off-campus violations may lead to disciplinary measures.
I further understand that the Wethersfield Public Schools allows students to bring their own
devices such as phones, tablets and computers. In order to be permitted to bring a personallyowned device, the following responsibilities and restrictions apply:
1. Students will follow all school rules while using their own device on school grounds.
2.
3.
4.
5.
The rules outlined above regarding use of school computer resources apply to students’
use of their own devices on school property and rule 11 above applies to student use of
personal devices off school property.
Students will not take photos or record video of any student, teacher or administrator
unless the student taking or recording photos or video has the other individual’s express
permission to do so.
Students will not use their devices during class unless expressly instructed to do so by a
teacher and must immediately comply with a directive to turn the device off, to put the
device away or to turn the device over to a teacher or administrator.
Personally-owned devices may be confiscated at any time. A teacher or administrator
may view contents of student-owned devices including but not limited to, texts, emails
or social media postings, if it appears that the student may have used the device in
violation of school rules or this Agreement.
The district is not responsible for theft, damage or loss of personally-owned devices and
students are not permitted to leave such devices at school overnight unless it is secured
in a locked locker.
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Field Trips
At some time during the school year, your child may be involved in one or more field
trips for educational purposes. A communication will be directed to each parent
announcing the purpose of the trip, the time the student will be away from school, and
any special provisions that may be needed. You will be expected to acknowledge
receipt of the communication with your signature and return it to the classroom teacher
before the day of the field trip. There may be times when a parent is required or
requested to attend the field trip due to safety or behavioral issues.
Food and Nutrition
School Breakfast Program: Beginning August 31, 2015 all students will be offered the
option of buying breakfast each morning. All students eligible for free or reduced price
lunch will also receive breakfast and lunch free.
School Lunch Program: All students in grades K-6 eat lunch in the cafeteria. Students
may bring their lunch from home, or participate in the School Lunch Program. Menus
are posted monthly on Wethersfield Public Schools’ website.
The price for breakfast is $1.60 and for lunch $2.60. Milk is included when a breakfast
or lunch is purchased. The price for purchasing milk only is 60 cents. Families may be
eligible for free or reduced price school meals based on Federal family income
guidelines. Applications are sent to all families at the beginning of school in August.
Anyone who was eligible for free or reduced price meals during the 2015-16 school year
will receive free or reduced price meals until October 15, 2015. Each person must
reapply for the 2015-16 school year by that date or lose his/her eligibility. Others may
apply at any time.
The district uses a computerized Point-of-Sale (POS) System in all of its school
cafeterias. Every student has their own personal meal account based on their current
student ID number. It is encouraged that parents deposit money into the student’s
account, although they may still pay cash. Monies paid into a student account can only
be used for the purchase of regular and alternative meals. When sending in money by
check or cash (a check is recommended), please include the student’s ID number on the
check or envelope so it is deposited into the correct account. Checks should be made
payable to “Wethersfield Cafeteria Fund”. Monies may also be deposited into the
student’s account by using the new secure online prepayment service.
Lunch Charges: Charging of school lunches may only be done in a bona fide
emergency. When a student’s account reaches a zero or negative balance, the student
will be provided with a hot lunch for up to three days and their account will be charged
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accordingly. If, after three days, the account has not been replenished, the student will
be provided with a cheese sandwich, fruit and milk which will also be charged to the
child’s account. Cheese sandwiches will continue to be provided and charged until the
balance is paid in full and sufficient funds are placed on the account.
Notification of Negative Balances: If there is a negative balance, notification will be
sent home to the parents so they will be able to pay the amount due. With our new
online application, mySchoolBucks.com, parents can set up an account and check
balances for their children as well as make payments. A link to this website can be
found on the District’s web page under “School Dining Services”.
Special Recognitions: It is important to recognize special days and accomplishments
during the school year; however, time devoted to celebrations should be limited in
nature so as to minimize the impact on instructional time. No food may be brought
into the school/classroom for celebrations. Food that meets the state nutritional
guidelines can be purchased through the Wethersfield Food Service Vendor, for
classroom celebrations. In addition, food that is brought into the classrooms for
student snack must fall under the categories of “nut-free” and “healthy”.
Food Allergy Management Plan and Guidelines
The Wethersfield Public Schools recognize that food allergies may be life threatening.
For this reason, the district is committed to developing strategies and practices to
minimize the risk of accidental exposure to life threatening food allergens and to ensure
prompt and effective medical response should a child suffer an allergic reaction while at
school. The district further recognizes the importance of collaborating with parents and
appropriate medical staff in developing such practices and encourages strategies to
enable the student to become increasingly proactive in the care and management of
his/her food allergy, as developmentally appropriate. To this end, the Wethersfield
Public Schools adopt the following guidelines related to the management of life
threatening food allergies for students enrolled in district schools.
I.
Identifying Students with Life-Threatening Food Allergies
Early identification of students with life-threatening food allergies is important.
The district therefore encourages parents/guardians of children with a life
threatening food allergy to notify the school of the allergy, providing as much information about the extent and nature of the food allergy as is known, as well as
any known effective treatment for the allergy.
II.
Individualized Health Care Plans and Emergency Care Plans
1. If the district determines that a child has a life-threatening food allergy, the
district shall develop an individualized health care plan (IHCP) for the child.
Each IHCP should contain information relevant to the child’s participation in
school activities, and should attempt to strike a balance between individual,
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school and community needs, while fostering normal development of the child.
2. The IHCP should be developed by a group of individuals, which shall include
the parents, and appropriate school personnel. Such personnel may include, but
are not limited to, the school nurse, school or food service administrator(s);
classroom teacher(s); and the student, if appropriate. The school may also
consult with the school’s medical advisor, as needed.
3. IHCPs are developed for students with special health needs or whose health
needs require daily interventions. The IHCP describes how to meet the child’s
health and safety needs within the school environment and should address the
student’s needs across school settings. Information to be contained in an IHCP
should include a description of the functional health issues (diagnoses); student
objectives for promoting self-care and age appropriate independence; and the
responsibilities of parents, school nurse and other school personnel. The IHCP
may also include strategies to minimize the student’s risk for exposure, such as
considerations regarding:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
j.
k.
l.
m.
n.
classroom environment, including allergy free considerations;
cafeteria safety;
participation in school nutrition programs;
snacks, birthdays and other celebrations;
alternatives to food rewards or incentives;
hand-washing;
location of emergency medication;
risk management during lunch and recess times;
special events;
field trips;
extracurricular activities;
school transportation;
staff notification; and
transitions to new classrooms, grades and/or buildings.
4. The IHCP should be reviewed annually, or whenever there is a change in the
student’s emergency care plan, changes in self-monitoring and self-care abilities
of the student, or following an emergency event requiring the administration of
medication or the implementation of other emergency protocols.
5. In addition to the IHCP, the district shall also develop an Emergency Care Plan
(ECP) for each child identified as having a life threatening food allergy. The ECP
is part of the IHCP and describes the specific directions about what to do in a
medical emergency. The ECP should include the following information:
a. The child’s name and other identifying information, such as date of birth
grade and photo;
b. The child’s specific allergy;
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c. The child’s signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction;
d. The medication, if any, or other treatment to be administered in the event
of exposure;
e. The location and storage of the medication;
f. Who will administer the medication (including self-administration
options, as appropriate);
g. Other emergency procedures, such as calling 911, contacting the school
nurse, and/or calling the parents or physician;
h. Recommendations for what to do if the child continues to experience
symptoms after the administration of medication; and
i. Emergency contact information for the parents/family and medical
provider.
6. In developing the ECP, the school nurse should obtain current health
information from the parents/family and the student’s health care provider,
including the student’s emergency plan and all medication orders. If needed, the
school nurse or other appropriate school personnel, should obtain consent to
consult directly with the child’s health care providers to clarify medical needs,
emergency medical protocol and medication orders.
7. A student identified as having a life-threatening food allergy is entitled to an
IHCP and an ECP, regardless of his/her status as a child with as disability, as
that term is understood under 504, or the IDEA.
8. The district shall ensure that the information contained in the IHCP and ECP is
distributed to any school personnel responsible for implementing any provisions
of the IHCP and/or ECP.
9. Whenever appropriate, a student with a life-threatening food allergy should be
referred to a Section 504 Team for consideration if/when there is reason to
believe that the student has a disability that substantially limits a major life
activity, as defined by Section 504. Whenever appropriate, students with lifethreatening food allergies should be referred to a PPT for consideration of
eligibility for special education and related services if there is reason to suspect
that the student has a qualifying disability and requires specialized instruction.
10. When making eligibility determinations under Section 504 and/or the IDEA,
schools must consider the student’s needs on an individualized, case-by-case
basis.
III.
Training/Education
1. The district shall provide appropriate education and training for school
personnel regarding the management of students with life threatening food
allergies. Such training shall include, as appropriate for each school (and
depending on the specific needs of the individual students at the school) training
32
in the administration of medication with cartridge injectors (i.e. epi-pens) and/or
preventative strategies to minimize a child’s risk of exposure to life-threatening
allergens. School personnel will be also be educated on how to recognize
symptoms of allergic reactions, and what to do in the event of an emergency.
Staff training and education will be coordinated by [insert name of appropriate
administrator/school nurse]. Any such training regarding the administration of
medication shall be done accordance with state law and Board policy.
2. Each school within the district shall also provide age-appropriate information to
students about food allergies, how to recognize symptoms of an allergic reaction
and the importance of adhering to the school’s policies regarding food
and/snacks.
IV.
Prevention
Each school within the district will develop appropriate practices to minimize the risk
of exposure to life threatening allergens. Practices which may be considered may
include, but are not limited to:
1. Encouraging hand washing;
2. Discouraging students from swapping food at lunch or other snack/meal times
Encouraging the use of non-food items as incentives, rewards or in connection
with celebrations.
V.
Communication
1. As described above, the school nurse shall be responsible for coordinating the
communication between parents, a student’s individual health care provider and
the school regarding a student’s life threatening allergic condition. School staff
responsible for implementing a student’s IHCP will be notified of their
responsibilities and provided with appropriate information as to how to
minimize risk of exposure and how to respond in the event of an emergency.
2. Each school will ensure that there are appropriate communication systems
available within each school (i.e. telephones, cell phones, walkie-talkies) and for
off-site activities (i.e. field trips) to ensure that school personnel are able to
effectively respond in case of emergency.
3. The district shall develop standard letters to be sent home to parents, whenever
appropriate, to alert them to food restrictions within their child’s classroom or
school.
4. All district staff are expected to follow district policy and/or federal and state
law regarding the confidentiality of student information, including medical
information about the student.
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5. The district shall make the Food Allergy Management Plan and Guideline
available on the Board’s website.
6. The district shall provide annual notice to parents and guardians regarding the
Food Allergy Management Plan and Guidelines. Such notice shall be provided
in conjunction with the annual written statement provided to parents and
guardians regarding pesticide applications in the schools.
VI.
Monitoring the District’s Plan and Procedures
The district should conduct periodic assessments of its Food Allergy Management
Plan and Procedures. Such assessments should occur at least annually and after each
emergency event involving the administration of medication to determine the
effectiveness of the process, why the incident occurred, what worked and what did
not work.
The Superintendent shall annually attest to the Department of Education that the
District is implementing the Food Allergy Management Plan and Guidelines.
Health Services
Wethersfield Public Schools promotes children’s healthy development by supporting
wellness, good nutrition and regular physical activity as part of the total learning
environment. Research studies over the past decade have consistently concluded that
student health status and school achievement are directly connected and, in fact, that
student health is one of the most significant influences on learning and achievement.
Healthy eating and regular physical activity are essential components of a healthy
lifestyle. Well-planned and effectively implemented nutrition and physical activity
programs have been shown to enhance students’ overall health, behavior and academic
achievement. The District promotes an environment that gives students consistent,
accurate health information and ample opportunities to use it. The classroom, cafeteria
and school activities should promote clear and consistent messages that explain and
reinforce healthy eating and physical activity.
In accordance with state law, the school Health Assessment Program requires each
child to have a physical examination before entering school, at grade 6 and at grade 10.
The school nurse reviews each child’s records yearly. A vision test is administered
annually to each child in grades K-6, and 9. Hearing tests are administered in grades K3, 5, and 8. Scoliosis screening is performed on all students in grades 5-9. The school
nurse carries out complete parent follow-up on all screening referrals. The school nurse
will screen children in any grade for vision, hearing or scoliosis at the request of the
parent, or other professional working with the child.
First aid at school is temporary. Needs of the child are met until arrangements can be
made for the student to be at home or under recommended medical treatment. Parents
34
may contact the nurse through the school office. If you are contacted by the school
nurse and are asked to pick up your ill child, please do so as soon as possible.
Your school nurse will provide the information needed for entry into school. The
Connecticut State Department of Health-Immunization Division may provide
exemptions on an individual basis.
Medication is administered to students only upon physician’s recommendations for
administration in school. Arrangements for this service are made through the school
nurse following specification of state law as stated below. Please keep your school
emergency card up to date by providing the school with names, addresses, and
telephone numbers (including cell phone numbers) of persons we can contact in the
event of an emergency.
Administration of Medication by School Personnel: By Board of Education Policy
5141.21, designated trained school staff may administer medication to students and, in
certain cases, students may administer medication to themselves. The term medication
here means any prescription drug or any over-the-counter medication including cough
drops, aspirin, ibuprofen, and aspirin substitutes containing acetaminophen. A
physician’s written order and written permission of the parent or guardian are required
for any administration of medication, including self-administration. A state-prescribed
and state-approved set of procedures is in effect governing the administration of
medication in school, and certain forms and signatures are required. Please contact the
school nurse for specific details. No student should be taking medication in school
without the knowledge of the school nurse, a physician’s written authorization, and the
written authorization of the parents.
If your child requires medication, your physician must complete the order section of the
form and you must complete the parent/guardian authorization to administer
medication section. Prescription medication must be brought to school by an adult in
the prescription medication bottle properly labeled with the pupil’s name, medication
and dosage, physician’s name, and date of prescription. Over the counter drugs
including cough drops must be brought in the unopened container as purchased.
With respect to cough drops, parents or guardians must send a note to school indicating
when to distribute them. Teachers can hold the cough drops and distribute them as
indicated or can send them to the nurse with the parents’ written directions. Cough
drops will not be distributed before recess or any other outside activity.
School personnel cannot take the responsibility for administering medication unless the
above procedures are followed. As a parent or guardian, you may come to the school at
35
any time to administer medication to your child. Authorization forms may be obtained
from the school nurse.
Preventative Measures for Controlling Pediculosis (Head Lice)
Background
Pediculosis (head lice) is commonly found in children between the ages of 3 and 12.
Head lice do not pose a health hazard, nor is it a sign of poor hygiene. Head lice create
discomfort by causing itching and irritation. Head lice may be transmitted as a result
of direct head to head contact. Head lice do not jump or fly. Nits are eggs that attach
themselves to the hair. Nits are not transmitted from person-to-person; therefore
exclusion from school for the presence of nits is not justifiable. Head lice management
is most effective through education regarding prevention and spread, prompt case
identification, and effective treatment.
Plan for Identified Head Lice Cases
1. Head checks for the presence of lice will be conducted outside of the classroom
in order to maintain student privacy and minimize disruption of the educational
process.
2. Any student having an active infestation, defined as the presence of live lice,
shall be excluded from school so that treatment may commence.
3. Treatment is to be carried out by the parent.
4. The school will notify parents of students within classrooms where two or more
cases of head lice have been confirmed by the school nurse.
5. The Principal, in consultation with the school nurse, may extend communication
of the presence of lice to the entire school community at his/her discretion.
6. Students will be readmitted to school upon the completion of treatment, and an
examination conducted by the school nurse.
Pediculosis (Head Lice) Prevention Plan
1.
2.
3.
4.
Educate staff, parents, and students on ways to prevent head lice.
Avoid stacking/piling or hanging coats on top of each other.
Encourage students to keep hats and scarves in their coat sleeves.
Remind students not to share combs, brushes, scrunchies, barrettes, hats, and
scarves.
5. Avoid sharing earphones and helmets.
6. Watch for signs such as frequent head scratching.
7. Encourage families to inform any of their children’s contacts regarding exposure
such as friends, overnight guests, relatives, and sports teams (especially those
teams that share hats or helmets).
36
8. Families who require repeated treatment should consult their family physician.
Homework
In accordance with the Board of Education Policy 6154, homework should be regarded
as an opportunity for teachers to provide students with instructional feedback.
Homework should also help parents better understand their child’s educational
development and progress. The following are some flexible guidelines that should be
used to guide homework assignments on a regular and continuing basis:
Grade
K
1
2
3
4
5
6
Days Per Week
1
1-2
2-3
3
4
4
4
Length of Assignment
Teacher Discretion
15-30 minutes
15-30 minutes
15-30 minutes
30-45 minutes
45-60 minutes
45-60 minutes
Teachers will use their judgment in determining the length of assignments and the
number of days per week that assignments will be given to students. Homework
assignments are the students’ responsibility and should not become a struggle at home.
Parents should limit their involvement to clarifying the assignment, demonstrating a
few examples as needed, and reviewing the homework. Parents should also assure that
a time, place, and an appropriate atmosphere are provided.
Teachers will communicate with parents if there is a need for greater parental
involvement during some homework assignments, particularly long-term assignments.
Parents’ interest and encouragement will create a positive attitude in their children
regarding homework.
Lost and Found
Lost and found items such as lunchboxes, items of clothing, etc., are collected and kept
near the office of each school. All found items are placed there daily. It is
recommended that parents sew name labels into garments or use indelible ink pens to
identify items of clothing. Articles left on the school bus can be reclaimed by calling the
Durham School Services Office at 571-0070 ext. 221. Unclaimed lost and found items
are given to charity.
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Lost or Damaged Books and Instructional Materials
In accordance with Board of Education Policy 3260, students are responsible for
reimbursing the district for books or other instructional materials that are lost, damaged
or defaced.
 For books or materials that are new to 5 years old, the charge will be 100% of the
replacement cost.
 For books or materials that are 6 or more years old, the charge will be 50% of the
current replacement cost.
Pest Management Plan
In compliance with Public Act 99-165, the Integrated Pest Management Plan (IPM) for
Wethersfield Public Schools was devised using the Model Integrated Pest Management
Plan for Connecticut State Agencies (MIPMP). The MIPMP was designed by the Office
of the Commissioner of the Department of Environmental Protection to assist state
agencies and local communities with the issue of insecticides.
The IPM designed for the Wethersfield Public Schools creates a process to adequately
deal with the use of insecticides within each facility and also on the outside perimeter of
each facility. The IPM requires that proper records be created each time an insecticide is
used and where it is used. The plan is divided into 3 sections: the Ornamental and Turf
Program, General Pest Control and Rodent Control. The Department of Physical
Services utilizes the Ornamental and Turf Program and Edward Lavery and Sons
Exterminating Company operates under the General Pest Control and Rodent Control
part of the plan. In accordance with the statute, all technicians are licensed.
The IPM requires that records be retained for 5 years. It also puts into effect the process
for proper notification of managers and those who have indicated that they wish to be
notified of insecticide use. It requires that all usage of insecticides be done when facility
activities are at their lowest point and not during school hours, typically Friday
afternoons.
Included with the IPM are the required inspection forms and use forms as
recommended by the Department of Environmental Protection. These forms will be
kept at each facility when any insecticide is used at that particular facility.
Pets
Due to the rising number of students with allergies as well as safety concerns, pets are
NOT allowed in schools or on school grounds during the school day as well as before
and after school.
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Progress Reports
Wethersfield Public Schools has a comprehensive system for reporting student progress
with respect to academic performance, citizenship, effort as well as study habits, and
takes into consideration the educational, social, emotional and physical development of
our students.
Progress Reports are issued three times during the school year in December, March and
on the last day of school in June. Parent conferences are held in October and March and
are identified on the school calendar. All parents are expected to attend the parent
conferences. Parents are encouraged, however, to contact their child’s teacher or other
appropriate staff at any time during the year.
Safe School Climate Plan
Purpose/Priority Statement
The Safe School Climate Plan is a comprehensive approach to addressing bullying,
cyberbullying and teen dating violence. The Wethersfield Public Schools is committed
to working with students, staff, families, law enforcement agencies, and the community
to establish the norms, values and expectations that make students and adults feel
socially, emotionally, intellectually and physically safe. The goal is the establishment of
an environment free of harassment, intimidation, bullying and teen dating violence. In
consultation with these constituencies, this Plan has been established for preventing
and responding to incidents of bullying, cyberbullying, teen dating violence, retaliation
and discrimination. This commitment is an integral part of the District’s comprehensive
efforts to promote learning and to prevent and eliminate all forms of bullying, teen
dating violence and other harmful and disruptive behavior that can impede the
learning process through an overall focus on school climate.
Bullying behavior is strictly prohibited, and students who are determined to have
engaged in such behavior are subject to disciplinary action, which may include
suspension or expulsion from school. The district’s commitment to addressing bullying
behavior, however, involves a multifaceted approach, which includes education and the
promotion of a positive school climate in which bullying will not be tolerated by
students or school staff.
In addition to prohibiting student acts which constitute bullying, the Board also
prohibits discrimination and or retaliation against an individual, who reports or assists
in the investigation of an act of bullying.
Students who engage in bullying behavior in violation of Board policy (also see
5131.911) and the Safe School Climate Plan shall be subject to school discipline, up to
and including expulsion, in accordance with the Board’s policies on student discipline,
suspension and expulsion, and consistent with state and federal law.
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“Bullying behavior and teen dating violence by any student in the
Wethersfield Public Schools is strictly prohibited, and such conduct
may result in disciplinary action, including suspension and/or
expulsion from school. “Bullying” means the repeated use by one or
more students of a written, oral or electronic communication, such as
cyberbullying, directed at or referring to another student attending
school in the same school district or a physical act or gesture by one or
more students repeatedly directed at another student attending school
in the same district that:
A. causes physical or emotional harm to such student or damage to
such student’s property,
B. places such student in reasonable fear of harm to himself or herself,
or of damage to his or her property,
C. creates a hostile environment at school for such student,
D. infringes on the rights of such student at school, or
E. substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly
operation of a school.
Bullying shall include, but not be limited to, a written, verbal or electronic
communication or physical act or gesture based on any actual or
perceived differentiating characteristic, such as race, color, religion,
ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or
expression, socioeconomic status, academic status, physical appearance,
gender identity, or physical mental, developmental or sensory disability,
or by association with an individual or group who has or is perceived to
have one or more of such characteristics.
Students who engage in any act of bullying, on school grounds, at a
school-sponsored or school-related activity, function or program whether
on or off school grounds, at a school bus stop, on a school bus or other
vehicle owned, leased or used by the Board of Education, or through the
use of an electronic device or an electronic mobile device owned, leased or
used by the Board of Education, and outside of the school setting if such
bullying:
1. creates a hostile environment at school for the victim,
2. infringes on the rights of the victim at school, or
3. substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly
operation of a school,
Students and/or parents may file verbal or written complaints concerning
suspected bullying behavior, and students shall be permitted to
anonymously report acts of bullying to school employees. Any report of
suspected bullying behavior will be promptly reviewed. If acts of
bullying are verified, prompt disciplinary action may be taken against the
perpetrator, consistent with his/her rights of due process. Board policy
and regulation (Plan) #5131.911 set forth this prohibition and the related
40
procedures in detail, and are available to students and their
parents/guardians upon request (and on website).
For the Board of Education’s full Safe School Climate Plan please refer to the district
website, http://www.wethersfield.k12.ct.us
Board of Education Policy number 5131.911.
Sexual Harassment
According to the Wethersfield Board of Education Policy 5145.5, sexual harassment is
unacceptable and will not be tolerated among staff or students regardless of whether
the harassment is student to student, student to staff, staff to student, or staff to staff.
This also applies to sexual harassment by or against volunteers or other non-personnel
doing business in the Wethersfield Public Schools. Employees and students are
expected to adhere to a standard of conduct that is respectful and courteous to all.
For more information on sexual harassment, please refer to the Board of Education
Policy 5145.5 which can be found on the district website or in the Board of Education
Policy Handbook in the office of each school.
Smoking
In accordance with the Wethersfield Board of Education Policy 6112, smoking and the
use of tobacco products is prohibited at all times in school buildings, on school grounds,
on transportation vehicles, or during the course of any trip or activities sponsored by
the Board or under the supervision of the Board or its authorized agent.
For more information on the smoking policy, please refer to the Board of Education
Policy 6112 which can be found on the district website or in the Board of Education
Policy Handbook in the office of each school.
Special Education Services
A continuum of special programs is available in each school for students identified and
determined to be eligible by the Planning and Placement Team. The programs and
services included in the continuum may be provided within the district or by contract
with a neighboring district, regional program, or private facility.
The services can be provided by special education teachers, school psychologists,
speech/ language therapists, social workers, occupational or physical therapists, or
consultants in specialized areas. The Special Education teachers work collaboratively
with their colleagues to maximize opportunities for students with special needs to
participate in the mainstream.
The Rehabilitation Act of 1973, commonly referred to as Section 504, is a
nondiscrimination statute enacted by the United States Congress. The purpose of the
Act is to prohibit discrimination and to assure that disabled students have educational
41
opportunities and benefits equal to those provided to nondisabled students.
An eligible student under Section 504 is a student who (a) has a record of having, or (b)
is regarded as having, a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits a
major life activity such as learning, self-care, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking,
breathing, working, and performing manual tasks.
Many students will be eligible for educational services under both Section 504 and the
Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), but entitlement to services under
the IDEA or other statutes is not required to receive services under Section 504.
For a full description of the rights and options granted by the federal law to students
with disabilities and the grievance procedure, please refer to the Board of Education
Policy 5114 which can be found on the district website.
Student Records
Wethersfield Public Schools collect information on students to provide a history of
educational growth that can be used for making educational decisions. Records include
identifying information, such as name, address, date of birth, dates of attendance,
activities and awards, and reports of standardized group test scores. These records are
kept in the student’s cumulative folder at the school the child attends.
State statutes and Wethersfield Board of Education Policy 5125 require that we gather
cumulative and health records on each student. For students referred to or involved in
special education, a confidential record is kept, apart from other records at the Office of
the Director of Special Services.
These records are required to be kept for six years after they become inactive. Special
services records are retained at least until the child graduates or attains the age of 21
(whichever is first).
Access to Records: Information about administrative procedures that govern the
collection and maintenance of school records may be obtained by parents at the Office
of the Director of Special Services. Relevant federal and state requirements are also
available there for review. A parent, legal guardian, or majority student (aged 18 or
over) may have access to his/her records upon the submission of a written request
made to the Principal or the Director of Special Services. A parent, legal guardian, or
majority student may delegate or deny the right of access for any other person or
agencies. NOTE: The court may obtain records by subpoena.
Appeal Procedure: If a parent, guardian, or majority student feels that inaccurate
information is contained on the school records, they may ask, in writing, that the
Superintendent of Schools remove or change the inaccuracies, or that a statement from
them be placed in the school record, along with the contested information. If a parent,
guardian, or majority student, after reviewing these policies and procedures in regard
to his or her child’s records or his or her own records, feels that a violation of policy has
42
occurred, a grievance may be addressed to the Superintendent of Schools.
Release of Information: Schools do not permit access to these records by any personnel,
unless that person is found to have a legitimate educational interest. These records are
not disclosed to anyone outside the school without the prior written consent of parents,
guardian, or majority students. The school keeps a record of anyone to whom
information has been given.
Parents, guardians, or majority students are also entitled to one free copy of information
on these records. Additional copies are available at a per-page fee determined by the
school district. In the event of financial hardship, this fee may be waived. Prior to
release of information contained in your child’s school records, you have the right to
examine it. If you wish to do so, please call the school and make an appointment with
the principal to review the contents of the cumulative folder.
Notification of Rights Under FERPA
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), 20 U.S.C. § 1232g, et seq.,
affords parents and eligible students (i.e., students over 18, emancipated minors, and
those attending post-secondary educational institutions) certain rights with respect to
the student's education records. They are:
1.
The right to inspect and review the student's education records within fortyfive (45) calendar days of the day the District receives a request for access.
Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal a written
request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The principal or
his/her designee will make arrangements for access and notify the parents
or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.
2.
The right to request the amendment of the student's education records that
the parents or eligible student believe are inaccurate or misleading, or
otherwise violate the student's privacy rights.
Parents or eligible students may ask the District to amend an education
record that they believe is inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise violates the
student’s privacy rights. Parents or an eligible student should write the
school principal or his/her designee, clearly identifying the part of the
record the parents or eligible student want changed, and specify why it is
inaccurate or misleading, or otherwise violates the student's privacy rights.
If the District decides not to amend the record as requested by the parents or
eligible student, the District will notify the parents or eligible student of the
43
decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for
amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will
be provided to the parents or eligible student when notified of the right to a
hearing.
3.
The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information
contained in the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA
authorizes disclosure without consent.
One exception that permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to a
school official with legitimate interests. A school official is a person
employed by the District as an administrator, supervisor, instructor or
support staff member (including health or medical staff and law
enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the Board of Education; a
person or company with whom the District has contracted to perform a
special task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist);
or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary
or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his
or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the
official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her
professional responsibility.
Upon request, the District will disclose a student's education record without
consent to officials of another school, including other public schools, charter
schools, and post-secondary institutions, in which the student seeks or
intends to enroll.
4.
The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education
concerning alleged failures by the District to comply with the requirements
of FERPA. The name and address of the agency that administers FERPA is:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, S.W.
Washington, DC 20202-4605
Unless notified in writing by a parent or eligible student to the contrary within two
weeks of the date of this notice, the school district will be permitted to disclose
"Directory Information" concerning a student, without the consent of a parent or eligible
student. Directory Information includes information contained in an education record
of a student that would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if
disclosed. It includes, but is not limited to, the parent’s name, address and/or e-mail
address, the student’s name, address, telephone number, e-mail address, photographic,
computer and/or video images, date and place of birth, major field(s) of study, grade
level, enrollment status (full-time; part-time), participation in school-sponsored
activities or athletics, weight and height (if the student is a member of an athletic team),
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dates of attendance, degrees, honors and awards received, and the most recent previous
school(s) attended. Directory information does not include a student’s social security
number, student identification number or other unique personal identifier used by the
student for purposes of accessing or communicating in electronic systems unless the
identifier cannot be used to gain access to education records except when used in
conjunction with one or more factors that authenticate the user’s identity, such as a PIN
or password.
The school district may disclose directory information about students after they are no
longer in enrollment in the school district. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the district
will continue to honor any valid objection to the disclosure of directory information
made while a student was in attendance unless the student rescinds the objection.
An objection to the disclosure of directory information shall not prevent the school
district from disclosing or requiring a student to disclose the student’s name, identified
or institutional email address in a class in which the student is enrolled.
The written objection to the disclosure of directory information shall be good for only
one school year. School districts are legally obligated to provide military recruiters and
institutions of higher learning, upon request, with the names, addresses and telephone
numbers of secondary school students, unless the secondary student or the parent of the
student objects to such disclosure in writing. Such objection shall be in writing and
shall be effective for one school year. In all other circumstances, information designated
as directory information will not be released when requested by a third party unless the
release of such information is determined by the administration to be in the educational
interest of the school district and is consistent with the district’s obligations under both
state and federal law.
Staff Qualifications
Right to Request Information concerning Teacher and Paraprofessional
Qualifications
As a parent of a student enrolled in Wethersfield Public Schools, under the No Child
Left Behind Act of 2001, you have a right to request the following information
concerning the qualifications of teachers and paraprofessionals who work with your
child:
1.
Whether your child’s teacher has met State qualification and licensing
criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides
instruction;
2.
Whether your child’s teacher is teaching under emergency or other
provisional status through which State qualification or licensing criteria have
been waiver;
3.
The baccalaureate degree major of your child’s teacher and any other
graduate certification or degree held by the teacher, and the field o discipline
of the certification or degree;
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4.
Whether your child is provided services by paraprofessionals, and, if so, the
paraprofessionals’ qualifications.
If you wish to obtain this information, please contact
Emily Daigle,
Name
Director of Special Services
Title
at 860-571-8141
Telephone
Transportation
Bus schedules are available in the school office. Only children eligible under the Board
of Education Policy may ride the bus. Children eligible are those in Grades 1-6 who live
1.0 mile or more from the elementary school they attend. All kindergarten students are
eligible for bus transportation to and from school. A child may only ride the bus he or
she has been designated to ride. Students will not be allowed to switch bus trips since it
can cause confusion and bus overcrowding.
A written note needs to be sent to the school’s main office if a parent wants his/her
child to walk to or from school or if a child needs to get off the bus at a stop different
from the one originally designated.
The pupil transportation policy and administrative procedure states that any requests
for transportation to or from a day care facility must be submitted in writing to the
office of the Assistant Superintendent of Schools.
While it is recognized that changes in day care arrangements can occur due to
unforeseen circumstances, several days delay may be involved in modifying the bus
routes to reflect changes that arise after the routes are published and disseminated.
Please note that:

The day care facility must be located in the same school attendance area as the
child’s residence, i.e., a pupil attending the Emerson-Williams School could not
be transported to and from a day care location in the Charles Wright, Highcrest,
Hanmer, or Webb attendance areas and vice-versa.

Transportation for elementary day care students will be granted only if the day
care location is more than the 1.0 mile walking distance to school and the pupil’s
residence is also more than the 1.0 mile walking distance to school.
(Transportation is granted on a space-available basis only if the day care
location is more than the 1.0 mile walking distance to school but the pupil’s
residence is less than the 1.0 mile walking distance to school).

In order to provide the safest transportation for your child, transportation will
only be provided to the same address five days a week. We are unable to honor
requests that allow for different pick ups and drop offs on different days, i.e.
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(day care @ Willow Street, M & T and home on Cedar Street, W, Th, F, cannot be
honored). It will be necessary for you to choose one permanent pick up and
drop off. Again we recognize unforeseen circumstances may arise that
necessitate a change in transportation needs. Changes will need to be submitted
in writing to the Business Office for review and, if approved, several days will be
needed to modify bus routes.
Drivers CANNOT accept or authorize changes to alter bus routes; requests for
changes must come through the Business Office.
The Transportation Office will no longer authorize notes from parents requesting a
change in their child’s transportation for play dates, play rehearsals, talent shows,
birthday parties, etc. Students will not be allowed to switch buses. Please
understand that one of the Board of Education’s goals is to provide the safest
transportation to our students to and from school. By allowing students to switch
buses or allow walkers to ride the bus for an afternoon play date, we are putting our
students in jeopardy. Buses have become overcrowded on some runs and keeping
track of the daily changes puts a strain on our District staff to be sure notes are
approved by the Transportation Office; students are loaded onto the correct bus and
the driver is notified of the change. Therefore, it is in the best interest of our
students to curtail this current practice in order to provide our students with the
safest transportation possible.
Bus Safety: Students should be at the designated bus stop 10 minutes before the
expected arrival of the bus. While waiting for the bus, students should be in a safe
place, well off the roadway. Students should board the bus in a safe, orderly manner
and immediately proceed to their seat. Students should be alert to traffic when
approaching or leaving the bus. Students should not cross immediately in front of the
bus, but rather 10 to 15 feet beyond the front of the bus and at all times be watchful of
other vehicles which may not stop for the school bus. Questions about buses should be
directed to the Business Office at 571-8115.
Bus/Walker Behavior: Parents are responsible for the conduct of their children while
they walk to and from school and while they are waiting for the bus and returning
home from the designated bus stop. It is the responsibility of the parent to assure that
the student is waiting at his/her designated bus stop on time.
Parents should read and become familiar with these rules and discuss them with their
child:
1.
2.
Each student shall be seated promptly when entering the bus. Do not block
the aisle, do not get up and move once you are seated, except at the bus
driver’s request. The driver has a right to establish a seating plan and to
change it at his/her discretion.
Loud, boisterous, profane or vulgar language shall not be tolerated.
Improper conduct such as teasing, tripping, hitting, etc. shall not be
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3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
tolerated. Similar rules outlining proper behavior in the classroom or school
where the student attends will also apply.
Windows will be opened only with permission from the bus driver. No part
of the body may be extended through the window opening.
No student shall stand to exit the bus until it has come to a complete stop.
Students are to remain seated until the bus has made a complete stop and
the door is opened by the driver.
No eating or drinking is allowed on the bus.
Parents of students who damage or deface any bus shall be held liable for
such damage.
Students are subject to both the rules of the bus and their school. Students
are to accord the same respect and cooperation to the driver as they extend
to a teacher in their school.
Improper behavior on the bus will be reported to the school administrator.
Students may be denied bus transportation for recurring instances of
inappropriate behavior.
Video Cameras on Buses: Video cameras may be used on the Wethersfield Public
Schools buses to improve safety and behavior. School administrators use the video
monitoring system to review student behavior on the bus and to assist in properly
identifying students who misbehave.
Student discipline is an especially challenging responsibility for bus drivers and school
administrators. Misbehavior can create a safety hazard for everyone. With this
monitoring system, bus drivers are able to maintain better control of students riding the
school bus.
Fire Drills: Ten fire drills are held during the school year. Two will be held in September.
A schematic of the building showing the evacuation route is posted in each teacher’s
room. The following are expectations for students during fire drills:





Students are expected to know the proper exit from any location in the building. Exit
signs and exit routes are posted in each classroom.
There is to be no talking or running during a fire drill. Listen for any directions given
by the teacher.
Students are to remain with their teacher outside the building. The teacher will take
attendance.
At the teacher's direction the students will return to their classes.
Any student who behaves in a manner that is not acceptable will be referred to the
office for disciplinary action.
Lock Downs, Lock Outs, and Evacuation Drills: Part of the district’s emergency plan
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involves getting students and staff to the safety of a locked room as quickly as possible in
the case of an emergency. This is known as a Lock Down. Lock Outs are when the police
or school officials deem it unsafe for open access to the school building. Another part of
the emergency plan involves getting students and staff to the safety of an alternate
location as quickly as possible in the case of an emergency. This is known as an
Evacuation. Simulated lock downs, lock outs, and evacuation drills are conducted during
the school year. Below are our expectations of students during Lock Down, Lock Out and
Evacuation drills:



Students know the rules in each of their classrooms.
Students are quiet, listen to directions of the teacher and follow all safety rules.
Students who do not follow proper Lock Down, Lock Out or Evacuation conduct will
be referred to the office for disciplinary action.
Visitors
Security issues require that all visitors, including parents, report directly to the school
office where they will sign in and receive a visitor’s sticker/badge. Upon departure,
visitors are asked to return to the school office to sign out. If parents need to deliver
something or pick up their child during school hours, parents should report to the
office and the school secretaries will assist by contacting the classroom teacher.
Teachers will ask parents to report to the office if they have not done so. These
procedures are aimed at maximizing both instructional time and student safety.
In order to ensure the security in our buildings and to foster the independence of our
students, parents are urged not to walk their children to their classrooms. If there is a
special circumstance in the morning in which a parent needs to speak to the classroom
teacher, that parent needs to sign in at the office and the school secretaries will notify
the classroom teacher.
Volunteers
Our elementary schools invite and welcome parents and community members as
volunteers. All volunteers are required to report to the office where they need to sign in
and receive a volunteer’s sticker/badge. Upon departure, volunteers are asked to
return to the school office to sign out.
Research has proven beyond dispute the positive connection between parent
involvement and student success. Volunteers provide assistance with parent
organization activities in each school. Additionally, volunteers work in our media
center and classrooms helping students with activities such as reading, mathematics,
writer’s workshop, as well as specific social studies and/or science projects and
experiments, computer technology skills, etc. Students benefit greatly from this
additional assistance. If you would like to let us know of your interest, please contact
49
your child’s school. We welcome your help!
Visitors/Volunteers and Confidentiality: While parents and community volunteers are
in our schools as either a visitor or a volunteer, it is important to maintain
confidentiality regarding student information. Administrators are required to enforce
the confidentiality of students in the school. Any concerns or questions regarding
students that may come up during visiting or volunteering time need to be referred to
the school principal.
CONNECTICUT STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
Complaint Resolution Procedure
Elementary and Secondary Education Act
34 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 299(10)(a)
I.
Filing of Complaint
A. Violation of Law
A written complaint may be filed by an organization or individual with the
Connecticut Commissioner of Education alleging that the state educational
agency (SEA) or an agency or consortium of agencies is violating a federal
statute or regulation that applies to the following applicable programs:
1. Part A of Title I (Improving Basic Programs Operated by Local
Educational Agencies).
2. Part B, Subpart 1 of Title I (Reading First).
3. Part B, Subpart 3 of Title I (Even Start Family Literacy Programs).
4. Part D of Title I (Children and Youth Who Are Neglected,
Delinquent, or At Risk of Dropping Out).
5. Part A of Title II (Teacher and Principal Training and Recruiting
Fund).
6. Part D of Title II (Enhancing Education Through Technology).
7. Part A of Title III (English Language Acquisition, Language
Enhancement, and Academic Achievement Act).
8. Part B, Subpart 4 of Title III (Emergency Immigrant Education
Program).
9. Part A of Title IV (Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities).
10. Part A of Title V (Innovative Programs)
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B. Review of an Appeal
A written complaint may be filed by an individual with the Connecticut
Commissioner of Education appealing the decision of an agency or
consortium of agencies based on prior written complaint presented by an
individual to such agency or consortium of agencies.
C. Content of Complaint
The complaint shall be in writing, signed by the complainant and contain the
following:
1. A statement that the SEA or an agency or consortium of agencies
has violated a requirement of federal statutes or regulation
regarding the applicable program, or in the case of an appeal, a
statement of aggrievement with the decision rendered by the
agency or consortium of agencies based on a prior written
complaint.
2. A clear and concise description of the facts on which the statement
is based and the specific alleged violation or aggrievement.
3. A description of prior efforts to resolve the complaint, including
information demonstrating that the SEA, agency or consortium of
agencies has taken action adverse to the complaint or has refused
or failed to take action within a reasonable period of time.
4. Complainant's and respondent's name, address and telephone
number.
5. Other materials or documents containing information which
support or clarify the statement.
II.
Review of Complaint
A. Analysis
Within three business days of the receipt of the complaint, the Commissioner
shall assign a review official. Within five business days of the assignment, the
review official shall determine whether the complaint has been properly filed
in accordance with Section I. If necessary, the review official shall interview
the complainant.
B. Dismissal of Complaint
The review official may dismiss the complaint in writing stating an
explanation for such action. The grounds for dismissal shall include, but not
limited to, the following:
1. Failure to file a proper complaint pursuant to Section I.
2. The allegations fail to state a bona fide violation of federal statute
or regulations by the SEA or an agency or consortium of agencies.
3. The allegations fail to state a bona fide aggrievement with the
decision rendered by an agency or consortium of agencies based on
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prior written complaint.
4. The allegations were not caused by the actions or failure to act by
the SEA, agency or consortium of agencies.
III.
Notification of Complaint and Investigation
If a complaint is not dismissed, the review official shall forward the complaint to
the respondent immediately along with a copy of the Complaint Resolution
Procedures.
IV.
Response to Complaint
Within 10 business days of the receipt of the complaint from the review official,
the respondent shall file with the Commissioner a written response to the
complaint.
A. Content of Response
The response shall address each and every allegation of the complaint and
shall list the respondent's name, address and telephone number.
B.
V.
Interview
The review official or the respondent may request an interview to discuss the
response and to resolve the dispute informally.
Complaint Investigation
Upon completion of Section IV or the failure of the respondent to file a response,
the review official shall conduct an investigation. All parties may be duly
notified that an investigation has begun. At any time during the investigation,
the review official shall attempt to resolve the dispute informally.
Within 60 calendar days of the receipt of the complaint, an investigation of the
complaint shall be completed and a written report shall be mailed to both parties.
Information shall be gathered in a timely manner, while minimizing any
inconvenience or disruption to the complainant or respondent.
Concerning a review of an appeal of the decision of an agency or consortium of
agencies, the review official may elect to disregard the procedures contained in
this section using in lieu thereof the following abbreviated procedure.
1. Review all of the appropriate records and determine whether the
decision of the agency or consortium of agencies shall be affirmed,
reversed or modified.
2. Draft a letter of review of an appeal addressing, but not limited to,
the issue in dispute, the facts found, the affirmation, reversal or
modification of the lower decision and recommendation for
improved practices, policies or procedures.
52
A. Data Collection
The complainant and respondent shall provide the review official with copies
of all relevant records requested in writing. Telephone interviews of the
complainant, respondent and others with knowledge of the allegations may
be conducted.
Pursuant to 34 CFR 99-35(a) the review official, acting on behalf of the SEA, is
authorized to have access to education records in connection with an
evaluation of federal or state-supported education programs or for the
enforcement of or compliance with federal legal requirements which relate to
those programs.
B. Independent On-Site Investigation
The review official may conduct an on-site visit to investigate the complaint if
the official deems it necessary. Any on-site visit shall be coordinated with the
respondent.
C. Complaint Investigation Report
The Complaint Investigation Report shall be completed by the review official
and mailed to the parties within 60 calendar days of the receipt of the
complaint by the SEA. The Commissioner may grant an extension for the
completion of the report on written request of the review official or
respondent if exceptional circumstances exist with respect to the particular
complaint. Such extension shall be in writing and shall be mailed to the
parties.
The report shall contain the following contents:
1. Summary of all investigation activities including, but not limited to,
date of receipt of complaint, allegations, parties interviewed,
documents received and dates of on-site visits.
2. Specific allegation of the complaint, the findings of fact, conclusions
and final decisions rendered regarding each allegation, including
citation to applicable federal statute or regulation.
3. Specific corrective action plan that resolves the complaint or
ensures future compliance of the respondent regarding the
violation of federal statute or regulation.
4. Recommendations for improved practices, policies or procedures
shall be offered when no violation of federal statute or regulation is
found.
D. Corrective Action Plan
If the Complaint Investigation Report finds that the respondent is violating
federal statute or regulations, the respondent shall be requested to submit a
corrective action plan within a specified period of time as determined by the
53
review official.
Respondent may request technical assistance from the SEA in order to
prepare a plan to achieve compliance.
VI.
Review of Final Decision
The complainant may file a written request with the Secretary of the U.S.
Department of Education to review the final decision of the SEA.
All local educational agencies shall disseminate information about the complaint
procedures to teachers, staff, parents and appropriate private school officials or
representatives.
Notification of Rights Under the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment
(“PPRA”)
The Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA), 20 U.S.C. § 1232h, affords parents
and eligible students (i.e. students over 18 or emancipated minors) certain rights with
respect to the administration of student surveys, the collection and use of personal
information, and the administration of certain physical exams. These rights include:
1. The right of a parent to inspect, upon request, a survey created by a third party
before the survey is administered or distributed by a school to a student.
2. The right of a parent to inspect, upon request, any survey concerning one or
more of the following confidential topics:
a. political affiliations or beliefs of the student or the student’s parent;
b. mental or psychological problems of the student or the student’s
family.
c. sex behavior or attitudes.
d. illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior.
e. critical appraisals of other individuals with whom respondents
have close family relationships.
f. legally recognized privileged relationships, such as those with
lawyers, doctors, physicians, or ministers.
g. religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or the
student’s parent; or
h. income, other than as required by law to determine eligibility for
certain programs or for receiving financial assistance under such
programs.
3. The right of a parent to consent before a student is required to submit to a survey
that concerns one or more of the confidential topics (see #2, above, a-h) if the
survey is funded in whole or in part by a program of the U.S. Department of
Education.
54
4. The right of a parent to inspect, upon request, any instructional material used as
part of the educational curriculum. Instructional material means any
instructional content that is provided to a student, regardless of its format,
including printed or representational materials, audio-visual materials, and
materials in electronic or digital formats (such as materials accessible through the
Internet) but does not include academic tests or academic assessments.
5. The right of a parent to inspect, upon request, any instrument used in the
collection of personal information from students gathered for the purpose of
marketing, selling or otherwise providing that information to others for that
purpose. Personal information means individually identifiable information
including, a student or parent’s first and last name, a home or other physical
address; a telephone number or a social security number.
6. The right of a parent to be notified of the specific or approximate dates of the
following activities, as well as the right of a parent or eligible student to opt-out
of participation in these activities:
a. activities involving the collection, disclosure, or use of personal
information collected from students for the purpose of marketing
or selling that information (or otherwise providing that information
to others for that purpose);
b. the administration of any survey containing confidential topics (see
#2, above, a-h); or
c. any non-emergency, invasive physical examination or screening
that is required as a condition of attendance, administered by the
school and unnecessary to protect the immediate health and safety
of a student. Such examinations do not include a hearing, vision, or
scoliosis screening or other examinations permitted or required by
State law.
Parents and eligible students may not opt-out of activities relating to the
collection, disclosure, and/or use of personal information collected from
students for the exclusive purpose of developing, evaluating, or providing
education products or services for, or to students or educational institutions,
such as the following:
a. college or other post-secondary education recruitment, or military
recruitment.
b. book clubs, magazines, and programs providing access to low-cost
literary products.
c. curriculum and instructional materials used by elementary and
secondary schools.
d. tests and assessments used by elementary and secondary schools to
provide cognitive, evaluative, diagnostic, clinical, aptitude, or
55
achievement information about students.
e. the sale by students of products or services to raise funds for
school-related or education-related activities.
f. student recognition programs.
To protect student privacy in compliance with the PPRA, the Wethersfield school
district has adopted policies regarding these rights. Parents and/or eligible students
who believe their rights have been violated under the PPRA may contact:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20202-4605
56
Student and Parent/Guardian Policy Acknowledgements
Student Name ___________________________________________ Teacher _____________
Elementary Student Handbook
We acknowledge that we have read the Elementary Student Handbook. We certify that we are
responsible for understanding and adhering to its contents.
Student Signature:___________________________________________Date:_____________
Parent/Guardian Signature:__________________________________ Date:_____________
Please refer to the Parent-Student Handbook, a quick reference to the sections that
apply to each of the following permission forms. The handbook is available online on
the school website. Thank you for helping your school save paper and streamline the
permissions forms process.
Student E-mail Guidelines (Grades 2-12)
I have read and understand the agreement found in the Student Handbook and I have discussed the
above with my son or daughter, and I give permission for him or her to use the Wethersfield Public
School District E-mail system and Google Apps. I understand that E-mail access is conditional upon
adherence to the Acceptable Use Agreement. Although students are supervised when using these
resources in school, and their use is electronically monitored, I am aware of the possibility that my son
or daughter may gain access to material that school officials and I may consider inappropriate or not
of educational value.
Print Student's Name: __________________________________________________________________
Student's Signature: _____________________________________________________ Date: _________
Print Parent's Name: ___________________________________________________________________
Parent's Signature: _______________________________________________________ Date: ________
Acceptable Use Agreement: Intranet/Internet
I understand this policy found in the Student Handbook and have discussed with my son or daughter this
Acceptable Use Agreement, and I give him or her permission to use electronic resources, understanding that
this access and use of personal devices on school grounds is conditional upon adherence to the agreement.
Although students are supervised when using school resources, and their use of school resources is
electronically monitored, I am aware of the possibility that my son or daughter may gain access to material
that school officials and I may consider inappropriate or not of educational value.
Print Parent’s Name: ________________________________________________________________
Parent’s Signature: ___________________________________________________Date: _________
Print Student’s Name: _________________________________________
Grade: ____
Student’s Signature: ___________________________________________________Date: ____________
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Permission Form for Publishing Student Work, First Name, Photo and Video
Name of Student_________________________________School________________Grade ___
I understand that my child’s work, first name, photo and/or video may be considered for posting
to his/her teacher’s classroom page and/or the district Wethersfield Public Schools website or
other internet pages.
I understand that I maintain the right to contact my child’s classroom teacher to request removal
of said child’s published work, name and/or photo from the website at any time.
I understand that my child’s work, name and/or photo may be considered for publication in print
or electronically (e.g., School bulletin boards, School Newsletter, Yearbook, Website, etc.).
*Please Note: Student work is defined as class work including any audio and/or video file
produced by the student as well as content posted on online discussion forums (e.g., blogs,
wikis).
________________I give permission for the Wethersfield Public Schools to use my child’s first
name, student work, photograph or video in the educational interests of the school district.
________________I do not give permission for the Wethersfield Public Schools to use my
child’s first name, student work, photograph or video in the educational interests of the school
district. (e.g., School bulletin boards, School Newsletter, Yearbook, Website, etc.). By selecting
this option, I understand that during group activities, such as school productions, the district
cannot guarantee that such requests not to use video/picture of my child will be honored and that
the only way to guarantee that video of my child will not be used would be for my child not to
participate in such events.
Student's Signature: _____________________________________________________ Date: _________
Parent's Signature: _______________________________________________________ Date: ________
Please return this form to your child’s teacher within the first week of school
R:\District Curriculum Office\Handbooks\Handbooks 2015-2016/Handbook Sign off Form
58
School Locations
Wethersfield, Connecticut
l
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Marsh St.
Rd.
Coppermill
Highcrest
School
Hig hcrest
Highlan d
Thor
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Willow
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Pros
91
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Rd.
Griswold
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Exit 26
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Silas e Schoo
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Ch u
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Rt 15
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Rt 99
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Board of Education
127 Hartford Avenue
Mill Woods
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